Wednesday, February 1st.

Is Your Name in the Book of Life?

"And death and hell were cast into the lake of fire. This is the second death. And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire." (Revelation 20:14-15).

John the beloved was the last of the twelve disciples of Jesus to die. He was given a vision of things that will happen in the future when he was banished to the Isle of Patmos after all attempts to kill him failed. . The opening verse of the first chapter of the book of Revelation reads; "The Revelation of Jesus Christ, which God gave unto him, to shew unto his servants THINGS WHICH MUST SHORTLY COME TO PASS; and he sent and signified it by his angel unto his servant John."(Revelation 1:1).

One of the event revealed to John is the Great white throne judgment where the dead will stand before the judgment throne of God to be judged by God. John said; "And I saw the dead, small and great, stand before God; and the books were opened: and another book was opened, which is the book of life: and the dead were judged out of those things which were written in the books, according to their works." (Revelation 20:12).

Even the sea gave up the dead which were in them. Those in hell were also released for final judgment. This means, hell itself is not the final destination for lost souls. As horrible as hell is, it's just a place where lost souls are tormented while awaiting their final judgment. Hell itself will be thrown into the Lake of Fire - Revelation 20:14. The Lake of fire is a river of liquid fire where lost souls will swim in and at the same time be tormented day and night for the rest of their lives. It is far worse than hell.

John went further to narrate his vision saying; "And whosoever was not found written in the book of life was cast into the lake of fire." (Revelation 20:15). Is your name in the book of life? What qualifies ones name to be in that book?

Whether your name will be there or not is dependent on your response to the gospel of our Lord Jesus. Have you received him as your Lord and Saviour? Are you walking in the light of God's word. The greatest tragedy in life is for your name to be missing in the book of life when you stand before God on that day. Tomorrow, we will begin to look into details of how you can be guaranteed a place in the kingdom of heaven and things you must do to ensure that your name is not erased from the book of life.

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for the salvation of my soul that is made possible by the death of Jesus on the cross of Calvary. I reaffirm the lordship of Jesus over my life. I ask for the grace to serve you in an acceptable manner so I will not be disqualified on the day of judgment in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Philippians 4:3, Revelation 3:5, 13:8.

Thursday, February 2nd.

How Can I Be Saved and Guaranteed A Place in the Kingdom of Heaven?

"For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast." (Ephesians 2:8-9).

The most important thing on earth is your salvation. Our lives on earth is just a transition to heaven or hell. And only those who are saved and walk in the light of God's word will have their names written in the book of life. So, the question now is, how can I be saved?

Salvation is a free gift that is made available to all mankind purely on the platform of grace. You are not saved by good works because the scripture says that our righteousness is like filthy rags. Trying to keep the commandments of God doesn't save either. You are also not saved because you joined a church and you are now a confirmed member of the church. It also has nothing to do with water baptism.

The first Adam brought condemnation to mankind through disobedience. But the last Adam who is Jesus brought justification to all mankind through his obedience. The steps you must take to receive salvation are clearly stated in Romans 10:9-10 which reads; "That if thou shalt CONFESS WITH THY MOUTH the Lord Jesus, and shalt BELIEVE IN THINE HEART that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation."(Romans 10:9-10).

So, the first step is to believe in your heart that God raised Christ from the dead. Not everyone believes that Jesus rose from the dead. There is a false religious sect that teaches that Jesus didn't resurrect bodily. This is a lie from the pit of hell. Our Lord Jesus rose up from the dead bodily. The only difference between the body that was crucified and that which is raised is that the resurrected body of Christ is a glorified body. It's no longer sustained by blood but by the Spirit of life.

The second step is to confess Jesus as your Lord and Saviour. The moment you do this, God himself will carry out a divine heart surgery. He will take away your old heart and give you a brand new heart or spirit. This miracle birth was also foretold by Prophet Ezekiel in Ezekiel 36:26-27. Our Lord Jesus used the term born again to describe this new birth experience when Nicodemus visited him at night. So, to be saved and to be born again mean one and the same thing.

And the moment you take this steps discussed above, your name will be written in the book of life. Above all, you will become a new creation in Christ Jesus. This, it is written; "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." (2nd Corinthians 5:17).

Congratulations if you are already saved. But if you have not yet received this free gift of salvation, say this prayer loud enough to your hearing and mean it with all all your heart; 'Dear Lord Jesus, I believe that you died for me. And I believe that God raised you from the dead to justify me. I hereby confess you as my Lord and Saviour from this day henceforth. I am saved according to your word. Thank you Heavenly Father for this free gift of salvation in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.'

Congratulations if you said this prayer. Find a Christ believing church to attend and commit yourself to the service of God. Tomorrow, we will learn about things you must do to ensure that your name is not erased from the book of life.

Prayers: Heavenly Father, I thank you for the free gift of salvation I have received by faith. I ask for your grace to serve you in an acceptable manner and keep the faith till the end in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: John 3:16-18, Romans 3:23; 6:23, Titus 3:5.

Friday, February 3rd.

Can Your Name Be Removed from The Book of Life?

"He that overcometh, the same shall be clothed in white raiment; and I WILL NOT BLOT OUT HIS NAME OUT OF THE BOOK OF LIFE, but I will confess his name before my Father, and before his angels."(Revelation 3:5).

The moment you are saved or born again, your name is written in the book of life. However, there are manners and ways you serve God that could make him to take your name out of the book of life.

The opening text is an excerpt from the letter our Lord Jesus wrote to the churches in Asia. He told the church in Sardis that he will not blot out the names of those who overcome from the book of life. In other words, names can be blotted out from the book of life. So, the doctrine of eternal security does not hold water in the light of this scripture.

Even Moses under the Old Testament prayed to God saying; "Yet now, if thou wilt forgive their sin; and if not, blot me, I pray thee, out of thy book which thou hast written." (Exodus 33:32). But God responded thus; "And the LORD said unto Moses, Whosoever hath sinned against me, HIM WILL I BLOT OUT OF MY BOOK." (Exodus 33:33). And this book is certainly the book of life. This is another witness that names can be blotted out of the book of life.

We should also remember that the children of Israel that left Egypt couldn't make it to the promised land because of unbelief. Only their little ones, most of which were born in the wilderness made it to the promise land. The writer of the book of Hebrews, making reference to this said; "So we see that they could not enter in because of unbelief." (Hebrews 3:19).

Thus, the scripture warns us; "TAKE HEED, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief, in departing from the living God." (Hebrews 3:12). Rather, we should "...exhort one another daily, while it is called To day; lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin."(Hebrews 10:13). And he added; "For we are made partakers of Christ, if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast unto the end." (Hebrews 10:14).

Space will not permit me to cite many more references. Don't let anyone deceive you that your salvation is secured no matter what you do. Apostle Paul said; "For if God spared not the natural branches, take heed lest he also spare not thee." (Romans 11:21). May your name not be removed from the book of life.

Prayer: Gracious and Merciful Father, I thank you for the privilege to be a part of your family. I ask for your grace to overcome temptations that are designed to lure me away from the faith in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Galatians 5:19-21, Colossians 3:5-6, 1st Timothy 4:1.

Saturday, February 4th.

Saved Unto Good Works.

"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them." (Ephesians 2:10).

It's true that our salvation is gotten on the platform of grace and not by good works. However, after that you are saved, God expects you to do good works. In other words, you are not saved by good works but you are saved unto good works.

Thus, Apostle Paul wrote; "Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, ZEALOUS OF GOOD WORKS." (Titus 2:14)? In another place, he said; "This is a faithful saying, and these things I will that thou affirm constantly, that they which have believed in God might be CAREFUL TO MAINTAIN GOOD WORKS. These things are good and profitable unto men." (Titus 3:.

Any child of God that is not ardently involved in any form of good works in the vineyard of God stands the risk of being disqualified from the heavenly race. Our Lord Jesus used different parables to illustrate the dangers of unfruitfulness in the house of God. One of them is the parable of talents. The unprofitable servant who buried his talents ended up in outward darkness (hell) - Matthew 25:30.

In another passage, the same message was conveyed when Jesus said; "I am the true vine, and my Father is the husband man. EVERY BRANCH IN ME THAT BEARETH NOT FRUIT HE TAKETH AWAY: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit." (John 15:1-2).

Even in the letters our Lord Jesus wrote to the seven churches in Asia Minor, his emphasis was on works. He rebuked the churches in their areas of shortcomings with regards to their works. The church of the Laodiceans got the worst rebuke. He told them; "So then because thou art lukewarm, and neither cold nor hot, I WILL SPUE THEE OUT OF MY MOUTH." (Revelation 3:16).

So, find something to do in the local church you have identified with and do it diligently with all of your heart. Pay day is coming when every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour - 1st Corinthians 3:8. "Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always ABOUNDING IN THE WORK OF THE LORD, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord." (1st Corinthians 15:58).

Prayer: Faithful God, I give you thanks for a brand new day. I am grateful for the opportunity to serve in your vineyard. Have mercy on me in every area of my shortcomings. I ask for fresh grace to serve you in an acceptable manner in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 3:10, Revelation 2:5; 3:2-3.

Sunday, February 5th.

The Need To Be Baptized With The Holy Spirit.

"And it came to pass, that, while Apollos was at Corinth, Paul having passed through the upper coasts came to Ephesus: and finding certain disciples, He said unto them, Have ye received the Holy Ghost since ye believed? And they said unto him, We have not so much as heard whether there be any Holy Ghost."(Acts 19:1-6).

After you are saved, you need to be baptized with the Holy Spirit to empower you for Christian service. Our Lord Jesus during his earthly ministry, spent time preparing his disciples for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Before his ascension, he told them; "...that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence." (Acts 1:4-5).

He added; "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."(Acts 1:. The word power was translated from the Greek word, dunamis, which means inherent power, inner strength and ability to do great things and cause changes.

Our Lord Jesus couldn't start his earthly ministry until he got baptized with the Holy Spirit. And it happened the same day John the Baptist baptized him with water. The scripture said; "And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water: and, lo, the heavens were opened unto him, and he saw the SPIRIT OF GOD DESCENDING LIKE A DOVE, and lighting upon him." (Matthew 3:16).

His disciples also were told not to go anywhere until they received the baptism with the Holy Spirit. And it happened on the day of Pentecost. The scripture said; "And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." (Acts 2:4).

This baptism transformed the life of Peter and the rest of the disciples. Peter who denied Jesus thrice during his trial of was no longer timid even in the face of persecution. The baptism with the Holy Ghost gave him boldness to preach the gospel with power and great signs and wonders.

And it was the culture of the early church to ensure that every new convert receive the baptism with the Holy Spirit. The opening text was one of such occasions. Apostle Paul saw certain disciples while he passed by Ephesus and the first question he asked them was if they have received the Holy Spirit. They said they never even heard if there was any Holy Spirit. After a brief explanation, Paul laid hands on them and they were baptized with the Holy Spirit and spoke in other tongues - Acts 19:6.

The Apostles did the same thing when they heard that Samaria has received the gospel. The scripture said; "...they sent unto them Peter and John: Who, when they were come down, prayed for them, THAT THEY MIGHT RECEIVE THE HOLY GHOST." (Acts 8:14-15). Even after Apostle Paul conversion, Ananias said to him; "...Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou camest, hath sent me, that thou mightest receive thy sight, AND BE FILLED WITH THE HOLY GHOST."(Acts 9:17).

So, we see the emphasis placed on the baptism with the Holy Spirit by the early church. This is why they did so much exploit for the Lord. You too need to be baptized with the Holy Spirit. He will empower you to serve God effectively and zealously. Tomorrow, you will be guided on how to receive him if you are yet to be filled. And for those who are already filled, you will be taught on how to activate the power of the Holy Spirit in your life.

Prayer: Dear Father, you are the great and mighty God. Besides you, there is no other God. I use this opportunity to thank you for the precious gift of the Holy Spirit. I pray he will continue to guide me into all truth and strengthen me to serve you better in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: John 14:26; 15:26-27, Acts 2:37-38.

Monday, February 6th.

How to Receive The Baptism With the Holy Spirit and Activate His Power - 1.

"Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law, being made a curse for us: for it is written, Cursed is every one that hangeth on a tree: That the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles through Jesus Christ; THAT WE MIGHT RECEIVE THE PROMISE OF THE SPIRIT THROUGH FAITH. "(Galatians 3:13-14).

Yesterday, we stressed on the importance of the baptism with the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is God's most precious gift to all believers. This subject has been dealt with few months back. Repetition of some subjects is important because of its relevance in our lives. Besides, repetition is the law of deep and lasting impression. This is why Apostle Paul wrote; "...To write the same things to you, to me indeed is not grievous, but for you it is safe." (Philippians 3:1).

Before we discuss on how you can receive the baptism with the Holy Spirit, it's important to mention here that the Holy Spirit has already been given. So, your responsibility is to receive. There are quite a few professing believers who still pray and sing to God to send down the Holy Spirit. This is ignorance on rampage. The Holy Spirit was sent down on the day of Pentecost and he is still with us. He will remain with us till the day of our final redemption or what we popularly refer to as rapture.

However, there are two basic ways you can receive the baptism with the Holy Spirit. The first is by asking the Father to fill you with the Holy Spirit. And our Lord Jesus guaranteed speedy answer to such requests when he said; "If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a fish, will he for a fish give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: HOW MUCH MORE SHALL YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER GIVE THE HOLY SPIRIT TO THEM THAT ASK HIM?"(Luke 11:11-13).

Notice the phrase, 'how much more'. It points to the fact that God is more willing to fill you than you are willing to receive. The second way is through the laying of hands. This is the way the Apostles of the early church imparted the gift of the Holy Spirit to the souls they won. Your Pastor or any matured leader can lay hands on you to receive the baptism with the Holy Spirit.

Whichever way you choose to receive the baptism with the Holy Spirit, it must be done in faith. This is what Apostle Paul said in the opening text. Virtually every blessing from God is received by faith. The faith element is to believe that you will receive the very moment you ask and you also believe that you will speak in other tongues as the Holy Spirit give you utterance.

The gift of the Holy Spirit is for every believer. Just as Peter said; "... be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. FOR THE PROMISE IS UNTO YOU, AND TO YOUR CHILDREN, and to all that are afar off, EVEN AS MANY AS THE LORD OUR GOD SHALL CALL."(Acts 2:38-39).

So, prepare your heart to receive the baptism with the Holy Spirit. There are still a few more things you need to know before I give you the opportunity to exercise your faith. But space will not permit us to include them in today's study. But make up your mind not to let the devil or any wrong perception on this subject deprive you of receiving God's most precious gift.

Prayer: Everlasting Father, creator of the universe, I worship you in the beauty of holiness. I thank you once again for the gift of the Holy Spirit. I ask for his grace and comfort to continually be with me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Acts 2:1-18; 8:15-17.

Tuesday, February 7th.

How to Receive The Baptism With the Holy Spirit and Activate His Power - 2.

"And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify God..."(Acts 10:45-46).

Yesterday, we said that the Holy Spirit is received by faith. We also said that the baptism with the Holy Spirit is for every child of God. How can we tell that someone has received the baptism with the Holy Spirit? This is the focus of our discussion today.

When the Holy Ghost came down on the day of Pentecost, the scripture said; "And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance." (Acts 2:2-4).

There was one evidence of the arrival of the Holy Spirit. He came like a sound of a rushing mighty wind. But there were two visible evidences that the disciples have received the baptism. First was the cloven tongues of fire that sat on each of them. Second was that they spoke in other tongues.

However, at other times the gift of the Holy Spirit was imparted to new souls, the physical manifestation that they have received the Holy Spirit is that they spoke in other tongues. The opening text reveals one of such occasion. The Jews were surprised that the gift of the Holy Spirit was poured out on the Gentiles also. How did they know? The scripture said; "...FOR THEY HEARD THEM SPEAK WITH TONGUES, and magnify God." (Acts 10:46).

Even when Apostle Paul ministered the Holy Spirit to the disciples he saw at Ephesus, the scripture said; "...the Holy Ghost came on them; AND THEY SPAKE WITH TONGUES, and prophesied."(Acts 19:6).

So, believe that you will speak in tongues the moment you ask God to fill you with Holy Spirit. You don't know what you will say. It's the Holy Spirit that will give you the utterance. But you must open your mouth in faith to speak. This is the role your faith has to play. As you open your mouth to speak, the Holy Spirit will give you the needed utterance and you will speak in tongues. It may not be as fluent at the beginning but as you keep speaking, it will get more fluent. Don't doubt and don't be afraid. If others could receive this precious gift, why can't you. But remember, the gift of the Holy Spirit is only for those who are born again.

If you want to receive the baptism with the Holy Spirit, just say this simple prayer; Heavenly Father, I thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit which you sent down to earth on the day of Pentecost. I ask for the in-filling of the Holy Spirit right now in the mighty name of Jesus. By faith, I receive the Holy Spirit baptism in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen. Then, open your mouth to speak in tongues as the Spirit gives you the utterance. Please, share your testimony with us and as many as you will have the opportunity to. Tomorrow, we will learn how to activate the power of the Holy Spirit in your life.

Prayer: Excellent Father, may your name alone be glorified. I thank you for the opportunity to see a brand new day. I thank you for pouring out the gift of the Holy Spirit on me. I pray that he will continue to empower me to serve you fervently and do great exploit in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Acts 8:15-17, 1st Corinthians 14:39.

Wednesday, February 8th.

How to Activate The Power of the Holy Spirit.

"But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost" (Jude 20).

After you are filled with the Holy Spirit, you need to stay filled by constantly praying in tongues. This is something you must do on a regular bases if you want the power of the Holy Spirit to be activated in your life. Praying in tongues keeps you charged up and prepares you to do exploits.

I am not talking about 5 minutes prayer in tongues. For instance, if you want your cell phone battery to be fully charged, you will have to plug it for a considerable long time. It's the same when you pray in tongues. Pray for at least one hour in tongues daily to keep you charged up.

Quite a few Christian remain spiritually dry even though they have received the baptism with the Holy Spirit because they don't spend quality time praying in tongues. The same thing happens to a church that is not tongue speaking. The atmosphere for miracles, signs and wonders in a church gathering is created when the congregation speaks in tongues for a long period of time.

And when you speak in tongues for a considerable long time, it will take you to a realm of prophecies. At such times, whatever you say goes with power and you will see them come to pass over time. This is why Prophet Joel said; "And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh; and YOUR SONS AND YOUR DAUGHTERS SHALL PROPHESY, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions." (Joel 2:28).

The final way to activate the power of the Holy Spirit is to release your faith when opportunities come. Lay hands on the sick and cast out devil and you will be amazed at the results you will get. You certainly can't heal everyone who is sick or cast out devils from every possessed man or woman because their faith also has a role to play. Our Lord Jesus himself didn't heal every sick man and he also didn't cast out devils from every possessed man during his earthly ministry. But he had a remarkable success that is unmatched in the history of the world.

If you are filled with the Holy Spirit, God's ability is in you. You can change hopeless situations. It will not happen overnight. Just keep praying in the Holy Ghost (in tongues) and prophesy to your situations. Over time, you will see changes that will line up with your dreams and goals to the praise and glory of God.

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for your faithfullness and love. I also thank you for your Holy Spirit that lives in me. I refuse to be moved by my present challenges because I know that my change will come by the power of the Holy Spirit in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Corinthians 14:4; 18, Acts 1:8.

Thursday, February 9th.

The Need To Belong To a Local Assembly and Be Committed There.

"Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." (Hebrews 10:25).

After you are born again, you ought to identify with a local church and serve God diligently there. Though, there are many denominations but there is one universal church. Thus, it is written; "There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling." (Ephesians 4:4).

However, there are quite a few believers who are confused as to which church they should identify with. This is probably because of recent scandals that have marred the reputations of a few ministers of the gospel. Quite a few others have been scammed by false teachers and prophets. Some believers because of these choose to stay at home. It's a grave error to do that.

You must belong to a local church, attend church services diligently there and serve God in one capacity or the other. Don't skip church services deliberately as some people do. It's an act of disobedience to do that. The writer of Hebrews says those in the habit of abstaining from church services are committing willful sin - Hebrews 10:26. And he warns that such attitude will attract God's judgment - Hebrews 10:27-31.

If employees could discipline themselves such that they go to work virtually every working day of the week, we should show more reverence to God by ensuring we are in every church services. We know that a worker who for one reason of the other is always absent from work every now and then stands the chance of losing his job. In the same sense, a child of God who is habitually absent from church services stands a bigger risk of losing his or her salvation.

In addition to the need to attend all church services diligently, ensure you are punctual. Lateness to church services is irreverence to God who is present at the meeting in the person of the Holy Spirit. When you have an appointment with your boss, you don't expect him to be waiting for you. You are supposed to be seated before he arrives.

Church service time is not just a gathering of believers. It's a divine appointment with God. So, you don't expect God to be waiting for you. You dishonour him each time you go late to church deliberately. Don't also leave before the service is over. There is a blessing you receive for coming early and there is a blessing you also receive at the end of each services. So, ensure you attend every church services and stop the habit of going late. And God will definitely reward your diligence to the praise and glory of his name.

Prayer: Holy Father, who was, who is and who is to come, be thou exalted above the heavens. And let your glory be over all the earth. Have mercy on me in any way I have dishonoured you in my attitude to church services attendance. I receive fresh grace from today to serve you diligently and overcome late coming in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Psalms 133:1-3, Revelation 3:19.

Friday, February 10th.

The Need To Belong to an Activity Group or Department in Your Local Church.

"From whom the whole body fitly joined together and compacted by that which EVERY JOINT supplieth, according to the effectual working in the measure of EVERY PART, maketh increase of the body unto the edifying of itself in love." (Ephesians 4:16).

Yesterday, we emphasized the need to identify with a local church and be committed. One sure way to show your commitment is to identify with an activity group or department and participate actively. Don't be a dysfunctional member of the body of Christ. There is no department for bench warmers. Those who just go to church without any form of commitment make themselves a misfit for the kingdom of heaven.

Notice the phrases, 'every joint' and 'every part' in the opening text. So, we have all be called to play a role in the advancement of God's kingdom. Locate your place and function. The blessing of God is only guaranteed for those who are fully committed one way or the other in a local church.

Our Lord Jesus used the parable of the talents to warn against unfruitfulness in the vineyard of God. He rebuked the servant who buried his talents thus; "...Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury." (Matthew 25:26-27).

He also passed judgment on him saying; "And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth." (Matthew 25:30). The outer darkness is a portion in hell reserved for slothful and unfruitful Christians. The choice is yours. May the Lord not tag you as a lazy and wicked servant on the day of judgment in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Prayer: Everlasting Father, the creator of heaven and earth, I bless you this glorious day. I thank you for counting me worthy to serve in your vineyard. I ask for grace to serve you with undivided attention in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: John 15:1-2, Matthew 3:10, 1st Corinthians 15:58.

Saturday, February 11th.

The Great Commission.

"And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned." (Mark 16:15-16).

The opening text popularly referred to as the great commission is the command our Lord Jesus gave to the church after his resurrection. Unfortunately, a larger percentage of the church is disobedient to this command. Our Lord Jesus said 'GO YE' into all the world' but what we have done is to build beautiful worship centres and tell the sinners to 'COME YE' into the church.

A larger percentage of sinners don't go to church no matter the incentives attached to the invitation. So, the only way to reach out to the larger percentage of sinners is to locate them where they are. The church therefore repent and obey the command of our Lord Jesus.

Reinhard Bonkke of blessed memory said that the church that is not reaching out to the lost is lost itself. Let's go out of the four walls of our churches and reach out to lost souls with the gospel of our Lord Jesus. This is the primary reason why he saved us. He has committed unto us the ministry of reconciliation.

It is important to mention here that soul winning activities is the responsibility of every child of God. And you will give account of your commitment to soul winning activities on the day of judgment. Any child of God who always shy away from soul winning activities stands the risk of losing his or her salvation.

Our Lord Jesus said; "For whosoever shall be ashamed of me and of my words, of him shall the Son of man be ashamed, when he shall come in his own glory, and in his Father's, and of the holy angels." (Luke 9:26). No genuine child of God should be ashamed of preaching the gospel. Hence, Apostle Paul said; "For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek." (Romans 1:16).

Start from your immediate sphere of contact. This includes your family members, friends, neighbours, colleagues in your place of work, your fellow business men and women and your fellow students. God placed you there primarily for the purpose of reaching out to lost souls with the gospel.

And as you preach Christ to lost souls, Jesus himself will constantly confess your name before the Father in heaven and before his angels - Matthew 10:32, Luke 12:8. This in turn will position you to receive uncommon favour both from God and men. Remember the scripture says that; ".. he that winneth souls is wise. And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever" (Proverbs 11:30, Daniel 12:3).

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for the salvation of my soul. I also thank you for counting me worthy to participate in soul winning activities. Have mercy on me in my shortcomings in this divine assignment committed to our trust. I ask for your enabling grace to commit the rest of my life to it in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 28:18-20, 4:19, John 15:16, 2nd Corinthians 5:19

Sunday, February 12th.

The Principle of Tithing.

And Melchizedek king of Salem brought forth bread and wine: and he was the priest of the most high God. And he blessed him, and said, Blessed be Abram of the most high God, possessor of heaven and earth: And blessed be the most high God, which hath delivered thine enemies into thy hand. And he gave him tithes of all."(Genesis 14:18-20).

Tithe simply means a tenth of your income or increase. It was first revealed in the fourteenth chapter of the book of Genesis when Abraham met with Melchizedek. The writer of Hebrews made reference to this encounter when he said; "For this Melchisedec, king of Salem, priest of the most high God, who met Abraham returning from the slaughter of the kings, and blessed him; To whom also Abraham gave a tenth part of all; first being by interpretation King of righteousness, and after that also King of Salem, which is, King of peace; Without father, without mother, without descent, having neither beginning of days, nor end of life; but made like unto the Son of God; abideth a priest continually.

It's important to note here that this is the only time Melchizedek was revealed. And the only assignment he carried out was to bless Abraham and receive his tithe. This shows how important tithing is. Tithing later became part of the Law of Moses. So, tithing precedes the law and transcends it in principle.

When you give your tithe, Jesus who is now our High Priest after the order of Melchizedek is the one who receives it and pour down his blessings on you. There is a blessing we receive when we give our tithes to God. After God, through Prophet Malachi had rebuked the children of Israel for robbing Him in tithes and offerings, he said; "Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts."(Malachi 3:10-11).

In summary, faithful tithing not only opens the windows of heaven to bless you, it also protects you against financial disasters. There are quite a few Christians today who don't pay tithe on the ground pastors are enriched by it while the congregation remains poor. This is a lie from the pit of hell. Your tithes doesn't make your pastors richer. Pastors become rich by what they give. No matter the amount of tithes a Pastor receives, if he doesn't tithe and give generously, he will not be rich. So, discipline yourself to always pay your tithes. Pay it correctly and willingly. Over time, you will be a living testimony that God's word is indeed true.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I thank you for your word that has been tried and tested to be true. I lean on it as the anchor of my soul. As I diligently pay my tithes, I ask that you open the windows of heaven and pour out your blessings on me in overflowing measures in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Genesis 28:22, Numbers 18:21, Matthew 23:23.

Monday, February 13th.

The Importance of Giving Quality Offerings to God.

"Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, Wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings." (Malachi 3:.

The third chapter of the book of Malachi is about the most popular reference used when exhortating Christians to pay their tithes. But Prophet Malachi also addressed the issue of offerings. God through him rebuked the children of Israel for robbing Him in offerings.

It's imperative to mention here that there is power generally in offerings given to deities. The same applies in the kingdom of God. Offerings are so powerful that it affects generations yet unborn either positively or negatively depending on how it is given.
The first record of offering given in the Bible is found in the fourth chapter of the book of Genesis. It says; "And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD. And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his Offering. But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell." (Genesis 4:3-5).

The worthless offering given by Cain was not only rejected by God, his generation was wiped out from the face of the earth over time. We also remember how the quality offerings given by Noah reversed the curse on the earth and made God to enter into covenant with Noah to prevent another flood that will destroy the whole earth again.

When Moses was called into the presence of God in the wilderness upon Mount Sinai where he spent 40 days, the first instruction God gave Moses concerning the children of Israel was about offerings; "And Moses went into the midst of the cloud, and gat him up into the mount: and Moses was in the mount forty days and forty nights. And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying, Speak unto the children of Israel, THAT THEY BRING ME AN OFFERING: of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering."Exodus 24:18 - 25:1-2).

The passage above shows the place offerings occupy in the mind of God. It was the first thing God addressed on Mount Sinai. Don't play light on the issue of the offerings you give. Your destiny and that of your generation is tied to it. Tomorrow, we will begin to look at some of the principles that governs offerings.

Prayer: My Father in heaven, how excellent is your name in all the earth! Be thou exalted above the heavens and let your glory fill all the earth. I thank you this beautiful day for the opportunity to be reminded of the need to give you quality offerings. I ask for your grace to give you my very best from this day henceforth in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Genesis 8:20-22, Luke 21:1-4.

Tuesday, February 14th.

What Determines the Quality of Offerings You Give?

"And he said, Of a truth I say unto you, that this poor widow hath cast in more than they all: For all these have of their abundance cast in unto the offerings of God: but she of her penury hath cast in all the living that she had."(Luke 21:3-4).

Yesterday, we emphasized the need to give quality offerings to God. We also said that your offering can be rejected like it happened to Cain. So, it matters the quality of offering you give to God. How then do we determine the minimum value of offering you should give to God that can be tagged a quality offering?

First, the offering you give must be proportionate to how much you earn or have. Our Lord Jesus personally supervised the offerings given by different people on an occasion in the Bible. He praised a widow who gave two mites because she gave all she had in her poverty stricken condition. In the mind of God, she gave a quality offering compared with the rich who gave out of their abundance.

However, no matter the level you are in life, any offering that cannot buy you a plate of meal is not worth giving to God. For instance, if you spend N1,000 regularly to eat in a restaurant and you give an offering of N200 in church, you have given a very poor offering. Parents also make mistakes of giving very poor offerings to their children when they actually spend much more to feed them.

Even if your income is low, you can still choose to give quality offerings to God and trust him to meet your needs. Doing so is an act of faith and God honours faith. Never allow any prevailing circumstances to affect the quality of offerings you give. It can even be as high as N5,000 or more depending on how God has prospered you.

Reject poverty by consciously giving quality offerings to God. Those who allow their present low financial status to influence them to give poor offerings are placing limitations on themselves. Refuse to remain poor and show it by giving your very best to God. The transition from poverty to abundance will certainly not happen overnight. Just keep giving to God your very best and in due season you begin to experience financial liberty.

Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for your faithfulness and love towards me. I am alive because of your mercy and grace and not because of my righteousness. I ask for your enabling grace to always give my very best to you and I trust that my needs will always be met in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Corinthians 16:1-2, 2nd Corinthians 9:6-7, Galatians 6:7.

When you're credulously crying with emotions but not observant it shows stupidity on your part.
Ever since you put up this thread has anyone come to question what you're saying here?
Despite the fact that many doesn't agree with you on this forum yet nobody not even one has come to argue with you over what you're typing.
Jesus said his true disciples will not be allowed to preach their faith anywhere without being confronted {John 15:19-21} and that's exactly what happened to his true disciples in the first century! Act 13:50; 14:2,19; 17:13

All those people criticizing Jesus' disciples aren't atheists o, they're people like you claiming they have faith in God but whose religion had nothing to show as fine WORKS that are running up and down disrupting whatever the Christians are doing just as you and your cohorts always do anytime you see JWs come on line to speak yet all of you don't agree on the same line of thought! Luke 11:23

Wednesday, February 15th.

How Do You Know a True Believer in Christ?

"A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. By this shall all men know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another." (John 13:34-35).

Today, we have countless millions of people in the world who claim to be Christians. But how do we identify those who are truly Christians? The answer is in the opening text. Our Lord Jesus said that only those who love their fellow brethren the way he loved us are his true disciples.

So, you are not a Christian because you were born into a Christian home. You are also not a true Christian because you are a member of a local church. If going to church can make you a Christian, then going to a zoo should make you an animal. But we know that it's far from the truth.

A Christian is one who has received Jesus into his heart as his Lord and Saviour and he is walking in love toward the brethren. Apostle Paul said the same thing when he wrote; "Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity (love), I AM BECOME AS SOUNDING BRASS, OR A TINKLING CYMBAL. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity (love), I AM NOTHING. And though I bestow all my goods to feed the poor, and though I give my body to be burned, and have not charity (love), it profiteth me nothing."(1st Corinthians 13:1-3).

The passage above clearly reveals that even those who are anointed to move mountains are misfit for God's kingdom if they don't show love. Speaking in divers tongues without love makes you an empty vessel. This love nature was deposited in your spirit the moment you gave your life to Christ. And God expects you to yield to this new nature by demonstrating this love to your fellow brethren.

The parable of the sheep and goat clearly reveals how God expects us to show our love for one another. Visit the sick brethren, cloth those who are naked, feed the hungry etc. Our Lord Jesus said we should even show this love to the point of liquidating our valuable assets to help the poor - Luke 12:33. The early church practiced it on two recorded occasions - Acts 2:44-47 & Acts 4:34-37.

So many Christians will be denied entrance into heaven because they ignored the cry of the needy brethren around them. Never deny your brethren help when it's within your power to render it. Whatever you give away to assist your brethren in need will always come back to you in multiple proportion. "As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith." (Galatians 6:10).

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for the sweet night rest. I also thank you for the wonderful opportunity to witness a brand new day. I appreciate the new life I have in Christ and the love you have deposited in my spirit. I receive grace to demonstrate this love to my brethren in the same way that Jesus loved us. Thank you Father for supplying the grace in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st John 4:7-8, 1st Thessalonians 4:9, Romans 12:9-10.

Thursday, February 16th.

The Spirit of Faith.

"We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak". (2nd Corinthians 4:13).

The Christian life is a life of faith. Thus, the scripture says that the just shall live by faith thrice in the New Testament - Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11 & Hebrews 10:38. The faith lifestyle is the only lifestyle that pleases God - Hebrews 11:6. And it's the only way to live a victorious Christian life.

God himself is a faith being. And we are born of faith. The measure of faith that we need to live the Christian life has been deposited in our spirits - Romans 12:3. Your responsibility is to grow it and put it to work. Put in another way, you should have the spirit of faith.

The spirit of faith is an attitude of faith that does not take a no for an answer. And it is revealed in the way you talk and act. Hence, the opening text says that we believe and back it up with words of faith. When you have the spirit of faith, it is first unveiled in your words.
Don't talk defeat no matter how bad the situation seems. You are born of God. And the scripture says that; "...whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith." (1st John 5:4).

So, whatever you want to become or achieve in life, speak forth words of faith. There is power in your tongue. Hence, it is written; "Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof." (Proverbs 18:21).

If your business is not doing well, don't complain. Rather, speak to it. The scripture says that you will have what you say. Complaining or talking about your ugly situation won't change it. The change begins when you start speaking words full of faith.

So, put on the spirit of faith. Faith doesn't give up. And faith always wins because it has a divine backing. God himself watches over his words from your lips and brings them to pass. In addition, angels are mobilized into actions by words spoken in faith. Don't destroy your destiny with wrong words. Believe in your future. God has a good plan for you. Your responsibility is to keep speaking words of faith consistent with his plans for your life. And they will certainly come to fruition at the right time to the praise of the glory of his name.

Prayer: My Father in heaven, I adore and worship you this beautiful day. I give you thanks for your mercy, love and faithfulness. I declare that my future is bright. I trust that you will perfect every good plan you have for me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Proverbs 6:2, 18:20, Jeremiah 1:12, Mark 11:23-24.

Friday, February 17th.

All Things Work Together for Your Good.

"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose." (Romans 8:28).

We all have dreams and goals we want to achieve in life. But most of the times, the pathway to get to the place of fulfillment is marred with setbacks and disappointments. But some of these setbacks and disappointments are blessings in disguise especially when God is involved in your life.

There are however certain conditions that must be met to attract divine interventions that can turn your disappointments into appointments and your setbacks into comebacks. The opening text unveils these conditions.

First it says that, all things work together for good to them that love God. So, you must love God to qualify for a divine intervention. The second condition is that it's only for those who are called according to God's purpose.

Everyone in Christ is called but not everyone responds to the call. This brings us to the third condition which is not mentioned in the opening text. You must respond to the call of God upon your life to qualify for divine intervention that will turn situations around for your good.

There are different kinds of calling. There is the calling into the five-fold ministry which includes the office of an Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastors and Teachers. There are also other ministry which can all be called the ministry of helps. These ministries are supportive in nature such as the music ministry, ushering and even those who give financially.

A good example of how God can turn ugly situations around is the story of Joseph. Joseph in the Bible was separated for a divine purpose. And it was revealed to him twice through dreams. He told his brethren when he had the first dream. But he told his brothers and his parents when he had the second dream. His brothers got envious of him and sold him out as a slave with the intention of killing his dream. But it was through that act that God used to bring the dream to reality even far bigger than he anticipated.

Every great vision and dream will attract persecution even from those you think should support you. But if you maintain your love for God and do that which he has called you to do, he will ensure turn things around in your favour. And he will restore the seemingly wasted years. So, don't give up on your dream. If God be for you, only his counsel for your life will stand. And all those fighting your dreams will hide their heads in shame.

Prayer: Invisible God, hallowed be your name. I honour you this day because of your manifold wisdom. You are the God of impossibilities. There is nothing too hard for you to do. I pray that you will lift my head up about all my enemies round about me and restore my wasted years in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Genesis 45:4-7, Joel 2:25-27, Mark 12:30.

Saturday, February 18th.

Beware of False Prophets and Teachers.

"Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?" (Matthew 7:15-16).

It is an understatement to say that there are false prophets and teachers in alarming numbers in these last days. This is a topic we have treated in a previous edition but it's imperative we address it again because of the damage it's doing to the lives of countless thousands of people. And so many gullible souls fall victims of their deceptive schemes. Most of the times, they are the crowd movers and also very entertaining.

It is however your responsibility to discern them and avoid being a victim. Our Lord Jesus said in the opening text that we will know them by their fruits. The fruits here refer to their manner of life and mode of operation. Most of them are involved in gross sexual misconducts which they try to hide at the beginning. But after awhile, they are often exposed. Just as our Lord Jesus said; "For nothing is secret, that shall not be made manifest; neither any thing hid, that shall not be known and come abroad." (Luke 8:17).

Another way to identify them is that they usually make merchandise of gullible souls in the guise of performing miracles. This is usually done either by asking those seeking for miracles to pay certain amount of money to qualify for it or buy an item which they use as a healing medium at a cut-throat price.
Miracles are not to be sold. Hence, our Lord Jesus said to his disciples; "Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: FREELY YE HAVE RECEIVED, FREELY GIVE."(Matthew 8:. It is not however out of place to teach them on how to sow seeds which is very scriptural.

In addition, they hardly direct their audience to the way of salvation. They just gather crowd that are not saved because they are never given the opportunity to receive Christ into their lives as Lord and Saviour.

The content of their messages is another way you can use to identify them. They lure people away from the truth of God's word with their deceptive doctrines. For instance, there is a sect that denies virtually every fundamental truth in the gospel. They don't believe in the deity of Christ. They deny the existence of hell. They even deny the bodily resurrection of Christ from the dead.

Lastly, most of them love to be worshiped like a god. They love to take glory for the questionable miracles that happen in their meetings. Our Lord Jesus never took glory for the miracles that happened during his earthly ministry. Rather, he gave the glory to the Father. On one occasion, he said; "Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but THE FATHER THAT DWELLETH IN ME, HE DOETH THE WORKS" (John 14:10).

So, be careful where you choose to worship. Don't be a miracle seeker. This is the reason so many people fall victim of these false prophets and teachers. Worship were Jesus is glorified. Above all, find out the truth yourself through diligent study God's word.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, my refuge and my fortress, I worship you this glorious day. I thank you for the wonderful night rest and the opportunity to witness another day. Open the eyes of my understanding to know the truth of your word so I will not fall victim of these false prophets and teachers in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Timothy 4:1, Revelation 2:6,14,15,20.

Sunday, February 19th.

The Armour and Weapons of Our Warfare - 1.

"Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."(Ephesians 6:11-12).

Whether you believe it or not, we are all engaged in a warfare. But we need to have a clear understanding of who our real enemy is, what is the nature of the battle, the armour we are supposed to put on and the weapons we are supposed to use to fight.

The opening text said that we must put on the whole armour of God to successfully engage in this battle. It also unveiled the purpose of the armour; It's to enable us to stand against the wiles of the devil. Other synonyms for the word wiles are, schemes, strategies, tricks, deceits etc. Notice, the verse didn't say that we are to put on the whole armour of God so that we can stand against the devil. But it said, against the wiles or evil schemes of the devil.

So our fight is not against the devil but against his strategies because the devil been defeated. Our Lord Jesus made a public spectacle of him in his very domain, hell. He defeated the devil, rose from the dead and gave the church authority over him.

However, the devil comes with his evil schemes to sway us away from the faith. He takes advantage of the ignorance of some Christians and careless living to attack. The devil has no power over you unless you give him the opportunity. Hence, the scripture says; "Do not give the devil an opportunity." (Ephesians 4:27, New English Translation).

However, to successfully stand against the schemes of the devil, you must put on the whole armour of God and know how to use the spiritual weapons made available to you. Notice, it says, the whole armour. Not some of it. An armour is a protective wear that shields you in battle. Weapons are instruments of attack and defense in your battle against the enemy. You can fall prey to the attack of the wicked one if any part of the armour is missing. Tomorrow, we will take a critical look at who are real enemy is and also begin to look at each of the part of this armour.

Prayer: Great and Mighty God, your name will be forever exalted. I thank you for the victory I have in Christ. I know that you will always cause me to triumph over the evil schemes of the devil in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Colossians 2:15, Matthew 28:18-20, Revelation 1:17-18.

Monday, February 20th.

The Armour and Weapons of Our Warfare - 2.

"Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places."(Ephesians 6:11-12).

We introduced this topic yesterday. Today, we are going to look at who the real enemy is and begin to examine each part of the armour we are supposed to put on. The opening text says that we wrestle not against flesh and blood. It therefore means that your real enemy is not your next door neighbour. It's also not the witches in your village or family.

It's true that people yield themselves as instruments of darkness to perpetrate evil but they are still not your real enemy. There are powers behind their operations. It's these powers you ought to deal with. If you killed someone you perceive to be the witch troubling you through prayer, the witchcraft spirit can possess another person and the oppression continues.

So, in spiritual battles, you deal with the evil powers or spirit that influences people to oppress you and not the person. Thus, Paul in his letter to the church in Corinth, said; "For though we walk in the flesh, WE DO NOT WAR AFTER THE FLESH." (2nd Corinthians 10:3).

Apostle Peter affirmed this truth when he wrote; "Be sober, be vigilant; because YOUR ADVERSARY THE DEVIL, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour." (1st Peter 5:. Notice he said, your adversary as in singular and not adversaries as in plural. And the adversary according to Peter is the devil. He is the man behind the mask. The devil and his cohorts are the source of all afflictions and evils that happen to people.

So, all those energy we exert in trying to kill every perceived enemy is uncalled for. Deal with the spirits behind their operations and they won't be able to do you any harm. There are those who try to kill spirits. Spirits don't die. But you can bind them, resist their evil schemes or cast them out.

At this point, let's begin to look at each part of the armour we are supposed to put on. The first part of the armour mentioned in the sixth chapter of the book of Ephesians is the belt of truth. Thus, it is written; "Stand firm therefore, by fastening the belt of truth around your waist..."(Ephesians 6:14).

To tie the belt of truth around your waste means to be conscious of the truth of God's word consistent with his provisions for you in Christ Jesus. Ignorance is one of the reasons some Christians lose their spiritual battles. This is why our Lord Jesus said; "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:32).

What are some of the truths you ought to be acquainted with? They are; first, that the devil has been defeated. Second, that you have authority over all the powers of the enemy. Third, that you are more than a conqueror in every situation. In addition, the scripture says that at the mention of the name of Jesus, every knee shall bow. I could go on and on.

It was the consciousness of certain truths that made King David face Goliath fearlessly. So, no matter how tough the situation is, it's the truth that you know that will be your anchor of hope and give you the victory.

Prayer: Everlasting Father, I worship you in the beauty of holiness. You deserve the glory, honour and adoration. I thank you for the victory I have in Christ Jesus. I know that I will always triumph in my tribulations and have testimonies in my trials in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: John 16:33, 1st John 5:4, Romans 8:37.

Tuesday, February 21st.

The Armour and Weapons of Our Warfare - 3.

"Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and HAVING ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS. "(Ephesians 6:14).

Yesterday, we said that the first part of the armour you must put on to successfully stand against the evil schemes of the devil is the belt of truth tied around your waste. Today, we will discuss the second part of the armour which is the breastplate of righteousness.

To put on the breastplate of righteousness means that you should be conscious of your right standing with God. If you are born again, you are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. It's a free gift. This free gift of righteousness which you received the very day you accepted Jesus as your Lord and Saviour frees you from every form of guilt and condemnation. It also gives you boldness to stand fearlessly against the devil and his cohorts.

Unfortunately, so many believers still see themselves as sinners. You hear them confess before God that they are sinners during prayers. This is ignorance on rampage. The scripture says; "For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; THAT WE MIGHT BE MADE THE RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD IN HIM."(2nd Corinthians 2:21). So, Jesus took your sin and in exchange gave you his righteousness.

It's true that you still make mistakes even after you are saved but that doesn't make you a sinner. When you fall into errors, be quick to repent of it and ask God for forgiveness and he will cleanse you from all unrighteousness - 1st John 1:9. However, don't abuse this privilege by deliberately living in errors as it opens the door for the devil to afflict you.

Never let the devil remind you of your past mistakes. One of his strategies is to make you feel guilty and condemned. You can't win a spiritual battle with your heart laden with guilt and condemnation. God does not condemn you when you fall into errors. It's your heart that condemns you. This is why you must be quick to repent whenever you fall into errors so as to free you from guilt.

So, know that you are the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. When you know that you have a right standing with God, there is no power of darkness that can intimidate you. They know that you have a divine backing from God. And if God be for you, who can be against you?

Prayer: Immortal and invisible God, I bless your holy name. I thank you for the free gift of righteousness which I have received in Christ. I walk in this consciousness trusting you for victory over every evil works of darkness. And I know that I have a glorious future in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Romans 5:17, 8:1-2, Hebrews 1:9, Proverbs 14:19.

Wednesday, February 22nd.

The Armour and Weapons of Our Warfare - 4.
"Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and HAVING ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS. "(Ephesians 6:14).

Yesterday, we discussed the breastplate of righteousness which is the second part of the amour you must put on to successfully stand against the evil schemes of darkness. It's not just enough that you must be conscious of your right standing with God, you must also ensure you practice righteousness.

There are three ways you can practice righteousness. First, it begins with your thought life. It matters what goes on in your mind. Learn to think right thoughts consistent with the word of God. Success or failure begins with what goes on in your mind.

Apostle Paul in his letter to the Philippian church wrote; "Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are TRUE, whatsoever things are HONEST, whatsoever things are JUST, whatsoever things are PURE, whatsoever things are LOVELY, whatsoever things are of GOOD REPORT; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, THINK ON THESE THINGS." (Philippians 4:.

If you permit the wrong thoughts into your mind, it will programme you for failure. Mindsets filled with negative thoughts hardly win their spiritual battles. So, learn to think success. Reject every negative suggestions from the devil. Also forget the failures of the past. Have an optimistic view of your future.

Believe you can succeed against all odds. Tell yourself, I will make it. Tell yourself, I can do all things through Christ who strengthens you.
As you let these positive thoughts to fill your mind, it gives you boldness to stand against the devil fearlessly. Don't bother about those who mock you. Believe in the God of impossibilities. So many others have passed through worse experiences and God saw them through. Your case will not be an exception. Tomorrow, we will through more light on how the thoughts in your mind can influence your life and the battles you are fighting.

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for giving me sweet night rest and the opportunity to witness a brand new day. I commit my going out and my coming in into your mighty hands. I reject and resist every negative thought from the wicked one in the name of Jesus. Connect me with my destiny helpers and deliver me from dream killers in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 15:19-20; 25:35, Proverbs 23:7.

Thursday, February 23rd.

The Armour and Weapons of Our Warfare - 5
"Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and HAVING ON THE BREASTPLATE OF RIGHTEOUSNESS. "(Ephesians 6:14).

Yesterday, we talked about practicing righteousness. The free gift of righteousness you have received gives you the ability to think right, talk right and live right. We are still on right thinking. Think success all the time. Fill your heart with God's word. Reject every form of negative thoughts and suggestions from the devil. Forget also your past failures and errors. Look forward to the future with an optimistic view.

Another aspect of your thought life you must guard against is impure thoughts. Impure thoughts can defile you and when you are defiled or unclean, you give the devil the opportunity to accuse you. Our Lord Jesus said; "For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies: THESE ARE THE THINGS WHICH DEFILE A MAN: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man." (Matthew 15:19-20).

To be defiled means to be made unclean. And you can't win a spiritual battle in an unclean state. Satan will accuse you before God unless you ask for forgiveness and receive cleansing by the blood of Jesus.

Prophet Zachariah unveiled an instance that Joshua the high priest was clothed with a filthy garment and Satan was there to resist him or accuse him. His filthy garment was however replaced with a new one and Satan could not longer come near to accuse him.

Most of the hindrances we experience in our lives is due to the fact that we give the devil the opportunity to accuse us before God when we consistently defile ourselves with impure thoughts. The temptation to think wrong thoughts we always come but don't let it get a hold of you.

Other forms of thoughts you should guard your heart against are thoughts of bitterness, hatred, unforgiven thoughts, envy, malice and wicked thoughts. A wicked thought is a thought that does not show mercy. You see a brother in need and it's within your power to help but you deny him that help - Deuteronomy 15:9. A wicked thought or a wicked heart is also a heart that deliberately plots to pull others down either through slander or acts that hinders their progress.

Remember that you are born of God. Let good thoughts fill your mind and your heart. Thus, the scripture says; "Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and BRINGING INTO CAPTIVITY EVERY THOUGHT to the obedience of Christ." (2nd Corinthians 10:5).

Prayer: Faithful God, I thank you for your love and mercy towards me. I thank you also for your provisions and protections in this evil time. I ask for grace to overcome every form of impure thoughts so I can approach you with boldness and stand against every evil works of darkness in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Proverbs 4:23, 1st John 3:14-15.

Friday, February 24th.

The Armour and Weapons of Our Warfare - 6.

"And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace." (Ephesians 6:14).

Yesterday, we discussed the second part of the armour of God we must put on in our spiritual warfare which is the breastplate of righteousness. We said that you must be conscious of your right standing with God. In addition, we said that the free gift of righteousness which you have received in Christ gives you the grace to practice righteousness.

And this involves right thinking, right talking and right action. Avoid impure thoughts as much as possible and think success all the time. The aspect of right talking and right action will be discussed in details when we are dealing with the weapons of our warfare.

The third part of the armour we are supposed to put on is the gospel shoe. Put in another way, you must be conscious of the need to spread the gospel of our Lord Jesus which Apostle Paul calls, the gospel of peace. You are not fully dressed even in normal life activities until you put on your shoes.

Believers who seldom spread the gospel are not fully dressed for spiritual battles. You are actually living in disobedience when you are not ardently involved in spreading the gospel of our Lord Jesus. As such, you are giving the devil an opportunity to accuse you before God. This is one of the reasons so many Christians spend hours, days and even months praying for a particular blessing but it seems to elude them.

The primary reason God saved you and left you on this earth is to help others find salvation by preaching the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is not optional if you want to secure victory in your spiritual battles. Soul winning is God's number one priority. You can't ignore it and expect God to give you a divine backing in your warfare.

So, make effort to spread this gospel to as many as you will have the opportunity to meet. Let this readiness to share this gospel be as shoes on your feet. Do it with a sense of urgency because the time we have left in this age is very short. Jesus is coming back soon. Let's win the lost souls into the kingdom of God faster than the devil is luring them to hell.

Prayer: Merciful and Gracious Father, I give you glory, praise and honour this beautiful day. I ask for your mercy in my shortcomings in the area of soul winning. I receive fresh grace to be a soul winner. I put on my gospel shoes from this day henceforth as I engage in my spiritual warfare in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 28:18-20, John 15:16.

Saturday, February 25th.

The Armour and Weapons of Our Warfare - 7.

"Above all, taking the SHIELD OF FAITH, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked." (Ephesians 6:16).

Today, we will discuss the fourth part of the armour we are supposed to put on as we engage in spiritual battle. It is the Shield of Faith. A shield is a movable protective armour used to protect the body during wars usually fought with bows, arrows, swords and spears.

Remember that the scripture says that the just shall live by faith - Romans 1:17, Galatians 3:11 & Hebrews 10:38. Faith is the only lifestyle that guarantees victory over the evil schemes of the wicked one. So, in other to put you in a disadvantage position, the devil attacks your faith.

He either gets you out of faith or get faith out of you through the circumstances he brings your way. A believer can be said to be out of faith when he permits the challenges he is faced with to affect his trust in God. And it shows up in his words and actions. He talks doubts and fears. He allows the worries of this life to overwhelm him.

To get faith out of you is a state where you have completely lost your trust in God such that you stop attending church services or even renounce your faith in Christ. One strategy the devil uses to weaken your faith is suggestions which the opening text calls fiery darts or dangerous arrows. So many have committed suicide because they yielded to the evil suggestions of the devil.

This is why you must put on the shield of faith. Don't lose your trust in God and don't draw back in your service towards God. Job is a very good example of someone who had the worst recorded affliction in the Bible days. His faith was shaken but he refused to buckle under the pressure of his affliction. The devil even used his wife to suggest to him to curse God and die - Job 2:9. But Job didn't yield to that evil suggestion.

On one occasion, he said; " I know that my redeemer liveth..."(Job 19:25). In another place, he said; "...all the days of my appointed time will I wait, till my change come." (Job 14:14). And his change came. The scripture said; "And the LORD turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends: also the LORD gave Job twice as much as he had before. So the LORD blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning: for he had fourteen thousand sheep, and six thousand camels, and a thousand yoke of oxen, and a thousand she asses. "(Job 42:10, 12).

So, don't let your faith waver in trying moments. Resist all the suggestions the devil makes to you. Stand on the word of God no matter what happens. Thus, the scripture says; "There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it." (1st Corinthians 10:13).

Prayer: Great and Mighty God, I bless your holy name this glorious day. I thank you for your love towards me. I ask that you strengthen me by the power of your Spirit in me against every form of discouragement and evil suggestions of the wicked one in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 2nd Corinthians 13:5, Hebrews 10:35-39.

Sunday, February 26th.

The Armour and Weapons of Our Warfare - 8.

"And take the HELMET OF SALVATION, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God." (Ephesians 6:17).

The last part of the armour mentioned in the sixth chapter of the book of Ephesians we must put on to successful stand against the tricks of the devil is the helmet of salvation. It simply means that you should be conscious of the fact that you are saved. In addition, you should fully grasped what it truly means to be saved.

Salvation is not just deliverance from sin, it's a complete package. It's total deliverance from every works of darkness which includes, sickness, poverty and untimely death. The redemption that Christ wrought for us is a complete one. It doesn't matter if symptoms of sickness persist for a while or you are yet to experience financial liberty, stand on God's word. Health and wealth will eventually be yours if your faith does not waver.

I heard a true life story of young man that saved money to buy a ticket to board a ship. When it was time for meal, he just watched others go to eat because he didn't have extra money for feeding. Someone in the same ship observed him and asked him why he doesn't join them to eat. He said he just had enough money to buy his ticket but had no budget for food. 'Your meal is included in the ticket you brought', he responded. So, the ticket already took care of the meal.

This story will help us to understand what salvation truly means. Everything you ever need in life has been taken care of through the salvation we have in Christ. This is why Apostle Peter wrote; "According as his divine power HATH GIVEN UNTO US ALL THINGS that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue." (2nd Peter 1:3).

So, as you engage in spiritual warfare, be conscious that you are saved from the power of darkness. Also know that your health, wealth, deliverance and safely is wrapped up in the salvation package. This will be like an helmet on your head. Be conscious also of the hope of salvation which is the final redemption of our bodies when Jesus comes to take the faithful saints home. Hence, it is written; "In a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trump: for the trumpet shall sound, and the dead shall be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed." (1st Corinthians 15:52).

Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for saving me from the power of darkness. And I know that you will always keep me safe under the shelter of your wings. I commit my day into your mighty hands trusting that you will provide my needs and keep me from evil in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Colossians 1:13, Titus 2:5, 1st Peter 2:24.

Monday, February 27th.

The Armour and Weapons of Our Warfare - 9.

"But let us, who are of the day, be sober, putting on the BREASTPLATE OF FAITH AND LOVE; and for an helmet, the hope of salvation." (1st Thessalonians 5:.

Another armour we ought to put on that is not mentioned in the sixth chapter of the book of Ephesians is the breastplate of faith and love. The breastplate of faith is not the same as the shield of faith. A shield is a movable armour but the breastplate is fixed. The shield of faith is to protect you against the dangerous arrows the wicked one shoots at you which usually comes in the form of suggestions not consistent with the word of God.

However, the breastplate of faith simply means an attitude of faith. It's a state of the heart that fully trust in the Lord. It's a state of the heart that does not see impossibility. It does not waver at the promise of God. He hears God's word and believes it. A believer who puts on the breastplate of faith in not perturbed by temporary setbacks. He sees the end from the beginning and patiently waits for the manifestation of his dreams and goals.

Alloyed into this breastplate is love as faith in itself can't work effectively without love. This is why Apostle Paul wrote; "For in Jesus Christ neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision; but FAITH WHICH WORKETH BY LOVE." (Galatians 5:6).

For instance, you can't win a spiritual battle in strifes, envies and grudges. This is why the scripture says; "Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice: And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you." (Ephesians 4:31-32).

You can't also prosper when you hurt people without making effort to make peace with them. Thus, our Lord Jesus said; "Therefore if thou bring thy gift to the altar, and there rememberest that thy brother hath ought against thee; Leave there thy gift before the altar, and go thy way; FIRST BE RECONCILED TO THY BROTHER, and then come and offer thy gift." (Matthew 5:23-24).

The passage above clearly unveils the fact that your seed or offering which is usually done in faith will not be accepted when you are not walking in love towards your brethren. Besides, those who walk in strife, hatred and hardly forgive open doors for the devil to afflict them. In addition, it hinders answers to prayers. So, have faith in God in all that you do and walk in love. It will protect you from the wicked one as you engage in spiritual warfare.

Prayer: Everlasting Father, I exalt you above all gods. You alone are worthy of my praise and adoration. I thank you for the entrance of your word that gives me understanding. I reject every form of hatred and bitterness that could ruin my faith in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 1st Corinthians 13:1-3, 1st Peter 4:8, 1st Thessalonians 3:12.

Tuesday, February 28th.

The Armour and Weapons of Our Warfare - 10.

"And take the helmet of salvation, and the SWORD OF THE SPIRIT, which is the word of God."(Ephesians 6:17).

So far we have been discussing the armour we must put on in our spiritual warfare against the evil schemes of darkness. Today, we will begin to look at the weapons of our warfare. The first weapon we will discuss is the sword of the Spirit which is the word of God according to the opening text.

But unlike conventional fights where swords are held in the hands, the sword of the Spirit is in our mouth. God's word is our weapon against the devil and his cohorts. It is so powerful that the scripture says; "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart." (Hebrews 4:12).

Notice the phrase, 'sharper than any two edged sword'. It is so sharp that it can separate the soul and the spirit of man which the human intellect cannot do. God's word was the weapon our Lord Jesus used against the devil during his temptation immediately after he ended his forty days fast. Each time the devil brought evil suggestions, our Lord Jesus responded, 'it is written..'.

Satan dreads God's word. But you must speak it in faith and it must come from your spirit. Remember that this present world was created by the word of God. We also have the ability to speak forth words consistent with God's word and see it come to pass.

Your future is in your lips. Don't permit what you are going through to make you say things that can destroy your destiny. Just as we said in our earlier lessons that you should think right thoughts, learn to also say the right things consistent with the word of God.

Resist the devil steadfastly with the word of God. Prophesy to your future. Speak life to your business. Declare the things you want to see happen to you and your family. As you do, angels will be mobilized into action and God himself will watch over his word to fulfill it in your life.

Prayer: Matthew 4:1-11, Jeremiah 1:12, Isaiah 55:10-11.

Wednesday, March 1st

How To Use God's Word As A Weapon In Spiritual Warfare - 1.

"Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: Whom RESIST STEADFAST IN THE FAITH, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world." (1st Peter 8-9).

Yesterday, we introduced the first weapon of our warfare which is God's word. Apostle Paul calls it the sword of the Spirit. Every fighter who uses a sword to fight must be well trained on how to handle it if he wants to stand the chance of winning.

In the same sense, you must know how to use the word of God to engage in spiritual battles. The first way to use God's word is to RESIST THE DEVIL with it. The devil usually comes with suggestions primarily to weaken your faith or influence you to take the wrong decision that could ruin your life.

When our Lord Jesus was tempted after his forty day fast, the devil said to him; "...If thou be the Son of God, command that these stones be made bread." (Matthew 4:3). But our Lord Jesus responded; "...It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God." (Matthew 4:4).

This is how to resist the devil. But the devil doesn't give up so easily. He came again with other suggestions. But each time he did that, the response of our Lord was still the same. He quoted what the word of God says concerning the situation. And the devil eventually left him for a season. There were other temptations our Lord Jesus faced that were not recorded but in all, he overcame.

So, whenever you receive suggestions that is not consistent with God's word, know that it's coming from the devil. Immediately counter it with what the word of God says. Bring it under subjection to the obedience of Christ. It's important to mention here that the devil knows the word of God too. He even quoted God's word when he tempted our Lord Jesus. But he did it out of context as it was not in harmony with other parts of the Scripture.

So, if the devil for instance tells you that you are going to die, tell him that it is written, 'I shall live and not die'. Resist him with the word of God at all times. This is why it's imperative you study God's word voraciously so you will be well acquainted with your rights in Christ. Ignorance of your rights in Christ puts you in a disadvantage position when you engage in spiritual battles.

Be so full of God's word that it will beg for expression through your lips. Thus, the scripture says; "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord." (Colossians 3:16). And as you speak it in faith to resist the devil, he will certainly flee from you.

Prayer: Holy God, I thank you for watching over me through the night. And I am glad for the opportunity to witness a brand new day. I resist every evil suggestions from the wicked one in the mighty name of Jesus. I commit my day into your mighty hands and I trust that you will deliver me from the evil one. I also declare that my needs are met according to your riches in glory by Christ Jesus in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Luke 4:1-13, 2nd Corinthians 10:3-5, James 4:7.

Thursday, March 2nd.

How To Use God's Word As A Weapon In Spiritual Warfare - 2.

"Then saith Jesus unto him, Get thee hence, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve." (Matthew 4:10).

Yesterday, we said that the first way to use God's word in your spiritual battle is to resist the devil. You resist his evil suggestions by declaring what God's word says like Jesus did when he was tempted.

The second way to use God's word is to REBUKE or SCOLD the devil. Rebuking the devil is a little harsher than resisting him. Twice, our Lord Jesus resisted the devil but the third time, he rebuked him. He told him; "... GET THEE HENCE, Satan: for it is written, Thou shalt worship the Lord thy God, and him only shalt thou serve.

To clearly understand what it means to rebuke the devil, let's use a pet dog as an illustration. Sometimes, when you are going out, and your pet dog follows you; when you tell it to go back, usually, it doesn't. But when you use a harsh tone, the dog immediately responds.

So, treat Satan like a dog who doesn't want to go away so easily. Yell at him as the occasion demands. You have authority over him. Thus, it is written; "Look, I have given you authority to tread on snakes and scorpions and on the full force of the enemy, and nothing will hurt you." (Luke 10:19, New English Translation).

But as you rebuke him, always connect it with relevant scriptures as a basis for your action. Remember also not to give the devil an open door to afflict you. You are ordained to win. The greater one lives in you. "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us." (Romans 8:37).

Prayer: My Father in heaven, hallowed by your name. May your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. I thank you for placing me in a position of authority over the wicked one. Satan, get thee behind me in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Zachariah 2:2, Mark 1:25, Luke 9:42.

Friday, March 3rd.

How To Use God's Word As A Weapon In Spiritual Warfare - 3.

"And I will give unto thee the keys of the kingdom of heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever thou shalt loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven." (Matthew 16:19).

We said in our previous study that the first way to use God's word as a weapon in your spiritual battle is to resist the devil with it. We also said that the second way is to rebuke the devil. Today, we will discuss the third way you can use God's word as a weapon in spiritual warfare.

Immediately after Peter by the Spirit of God revealed who Jesus is, our Lord Jesus said that he will build his church on the foundation of the understanding that he is Christ, the Son of the living God and give him the keys of the kingdom of heaven. And whatever he binds on earth shall be bound in heaven and whatever he loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.
So, the third way is to BIND or LOOSE whatsoever you wish based on your knowledge of God's word.

Key stands for knowledge in this context and it is the knowledge of God's word. No wonder our Lord Jesus said, "And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." (John 8:32). Notice it was a promise at the time Jesus said it. He said, 'I WILL give unto thee the keys..'. And it was done the very day the Holy Spirit was sent down from heaven. These keys will grant you access to enjoy the blessings of the kingdom. And it is only the Holy Spirit that can guide you into the truth of God's word.

Immediately after Peter received the baptism with the Holy Spirit, he became enlightened and emboldened. And the result was the healing of the crippled man at the gate called beautiful. Peter knew there is power in the name of Jesus. Thus, he told the crippled man, "... Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk." The rest is history.

So, when you are well acquainted with God's word, you can bind every evil works of darkness in your life and that of your family.
The word bind simply means to forbid or prohibit. For instance, if there is a trend of untimely death in your family, you can bind it on the basis of what the word of God says. And that untimely death will stop.

In the same sense, you can loose or release God's blessings upon life and family. Declare what you want to see and say it as long as it is in accordance with God's word. You will certainly not see the result overnight. But keep saying it. God who watches over his word will bring those words you speak to fruition at the appointed time.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, I worship you because of who you are. You are merciful, gracious and faithful. I thank you for giving me the keys of the kingdom of heaven. I therefore bind every evil works of darkness in my life and family. I forbid untimely death, sickness and poverty in my life and family in the mighty name of Jesus. I declare that from this day, all I will see is goodness, mercy, favour, long life and prosperity in the mighty name of Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: Matthew 18:18, Mark 11:23-24, Job 22:28.