RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

TUESDAY 07 MARCH

THEME: UNDERSTAND THE TRUTH BEHIND HIS INSTRUCTIONS

THEME SCRIPTURE: Take fast hold of instruction; let her not go: keep her; for she is thy life.( Proverbs 4:13)

It’s important that you understand the spirituality of divine instructions. Divine instructions are for your life; so always take them seriously. A lack of understanding of spiritual truth and yielding to a fit of anger led to Moses’ grievous mistake that cost him leading the children of Israel into the Promised Land.

In Numbers 20:8, God instructed Moses to speak to the rock to bring forth water for the children of Israel to drink. But when Moses got to the rock, instead of talking to the rock as God had said, he struck the rock with his rod. Water came out all right, but God was displeased with him.

A previous instruction to Moses in Exodus 17:6 was for him to strike the rock for it to bring forth water, which he did and water came out. But this time, the rock wasn’t to be smitten a second time, because that rock was Christ (1 Corinthians 10:4). Christ was to be smitten only once; after that, you talk to Him for whatever you want.

Even though Moses acted in disobedience by striking the rock twice, water still came out. But it didn’t produce the result God wanted. That tells us something: It’s not about the result you want, it’s about what’s right in the sight of God. Is the Father pleased?

These things we read in the Scriptures are for our learning (Romans 15:4). Practise spiritual understanding, spiritual wisdom, and walking in the Spirit. That’s your call. Only if we live this way can we please the Lord in all things. Understand the truth behind His instructions and do them. Hallelujah!

CONFESSION
I’m filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding, walking worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing; fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God. Every time, in every place, and in every situation, divine wisdom is at work in me to the glory and praise of the Father. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY
Romans 12:1-2; Colossians 1:9-10

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Mark 12:18-44 & Numbers 20-21

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Matthew 21:1-11 & Exodus 16

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

WEDNESDAY 08 MARCH

THEME: CALL FORTH YOUR SUPPLY

THEME SCRIPTURE: 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 (2 Peter 1:3).

In Matthew 6, Jesus taught His disciples how to pray; and even though He didn’t intend for that prayer to be repeated ritualistically, He said something very profound in verse 11. He said, “Give us this day our daily bread” (Matthew 6:11).

Remember, this was before He brought us into the Kingdom. That means God had a plan for everybody. The word, “bread” there is symbolic; it isn’t just the staple food you prepare from a dough of flour and water. Rather, it means today’s supply; everything you require for today, to live joyfully and fulfil God’s purpose. Hallelujah!

When I read this many years ago, it dawned on me that I had a lot of leftover daily bread that had accumulated over time that I hadn’t taken possession of. Then I said, “In the Name of Jesus, I receive them all!” After all, the daily bread doesn’t get expired with God.

In Joel 2:25, He said, “And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpiller, and the palmerworm….” If He can restore all of that, then there’s no expiration with Him.

So, if you’ve never taken possession of that which belongs to you since you became a Christian, that means you’ve been living a life below your status, in spite of the accumulation of wealth in your heavenly account.

But the good news is, you can call forth your supply even now, through your faith-filled affirmations. Our theme verse says He’s made everything available to you for life and godliness (2 Peter 1:3). Call them forth in Jesus’ Name.

CONFESSION
Being an heir of God and a joint-heir with Christ, I’m plugged into an unending supply! Therefore, I’m supply- conscious; not supply from men, my employer, or the government, but from God, for His supply system is non- stop. I refuse to lack or be broke. There’s an allocation from heaven for me every day. I have supernatural supply and I walk in abundance. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:
Psalm 121:1-2 (NIV) I lift up my eyes to the mountains—where does my help come from? 2 My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth.

Psalm 23:1 (KJV) The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want.

Psalm 68:19 (KJV) Blessed be the Lord, who daily loadeth us with benefits, even the God of our salvation. Selah.

Matthew 7:11 (KJV) If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Mark 13:1-37 & Numbers 22-23

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Matthew 21:12-17 & Exodus 17

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

THURSDAY 09 MARCH

THEME: THINK THE KINGDOM WAY

THEME SCRIPTURE: All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16).

Our theme verse shows that the Word is able to regulate your mind to think right all the time; to think the Kingdom way. Someone might say, “You know I’m African, Asian, American, or European, and I think as such”; no! When you’re born again, you’re from God’s Kingdom. You’re to think as one from heaven.

The Bible says, “Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new” (2 Corinthians 5:17). If you want to be successful in Christ Jesus and live the life of the Kingdom, you must think like Christ wants you to think.

Romans 12:2 says, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed (transferred; transfigured) by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” Walking in God’s Word and having your mind renewed by the Word is the easiest thing for a Christian because the Word is your life.

You were born of the Word (1 Peter 1:23); you have the life of the Word; so it’s easy for your perception, your outlook on life, to be from the Word. It’s easy for you to think and live the Kingdom way and have Kingdom results.

CONFESSION
The Word of God is my life; it regulates my mind to think and live the Kingdom way and have Kingdom results. As I continually meditate on the Word, my mind is programmed to produce victories and excellence. Glory to God!

FURTHER STUDY:
Romans 12:2 (NIV) – Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.

2 Corinthians 5:17 (KJV) – Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

1 Timothy 4:15 (KJV) – Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Mark 14:1-26 & Numbers 24-26

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Matthew 21:18-32 & Exodus 18

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

FRIDAY 10 MARCH

THEME: HAVE NOTHING OF SATAN IN YOU

THEME SCRIPTURE: Hereafter I will not talk much with you: for the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me (John 14:30).

It’s very easy for Satan to use people in whom he’s deposited something of himself, for example, selfishness or greed. Anyone who is selfish isn’t walking in the love of God. Love rules over selfishness. God’s love is gracious. Selfishness in the heart is an invitation to satanic influence, for Satan is the author of selfishness.

This is why you must eschew selfishness and greed, and other traits that are consistent with Satan’s nature. Don’t allow Satan to have any of his traits in you. Jesus said, “…the prince of this world cometh, and hath nothing in me” (John 14:30). Satan had nothing in Jesus. There was nothing Satan could lay claims to or which he could influence in Jesus.

That’s the way it should be with you; Satan should find nothing in you that attracts him to you or that he can use to promote his agenda. It’s the reason you must walk in love at all times. Love is the antidote for selfishness and greed. Then also, speak the truth always.

Proverbs 6:16-19 highlights traits that are consistent with Satan’s nature that you must eschew. It says, “These six things doth the LORD hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren.”

The Bible says “Give no place to the devil” (Ephesians 4:27). Don’t permit or give vent to any of his traits in your life. Walk in God’s light—His Word—and everything of Satan and darkness will be repelled from you.

PRAYER:
The prince of this world has nothing in me! The Word of God that gave birth to me is perfect and incorruptible; therefore, nothing of darkness is in me. I have the light of life: there’s nothing in my life that produces darkness. In all I do, my motives are right and void of selfishness; and the love of God is shed abroad in my heart by the Holy Spirit. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Galatians 5:16
16 But I say, walk and live [habitually] in the [Holy] Spirit [responsive to and controlled and guided by the Spirit]; then you will certainly not gratify the cravings and desires of the flesh (of human nature without God).

1 Corinthians 13:4-8 AMPC
4 Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily.

5 It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly. Love (God’s love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it [it pays no attention to a suffered wrong].

6 It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but rejoices when right and truth prevail.

7 Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything [without weakening].

8 Love never fails [never fades out or becomes obsolete or comes to an end]. As for prophecy ([a]the gift of interpreting the divine will and purpose), it will be fulfilled and pass away; as for tongues, they will be destroyed and cease; as for knowledge, it will pass away [it will lose its value and be superseded by truth].

James 4:7
7 So be subject to God. Resist the devil [stand firm against him], and he will flee from you.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 14:27-52 & Numbers 27-28

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 21:33-46 & Exodus 19

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

SATURDAY 11 MARCH

THEME: BORN IN RIGHTEOUSNESS

THEME SCRIPTURE: I the LORD have called thee in righteousness, and will hold thine hand, and will keep thee, and give thee for a covenant of the people, for a light of the Gentiles (Isaiah 42:6)

Isn’t it glorious that we already have and are living in the blessings that the children of Israel would enjoy as a nation at the Millennium? For example, the gift of righteousness; we were born in righteousness, but at the Millennium, they’d just begin to enjoy righteousness.

Jeremiah 23:5 says, “Behold, the days come, saith the LORD, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth.” This is about the millennial period. The 6th verse says, “In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.”

In the Millennium, the Lord will be their righteousness; they’ll come into the Millennium, not living by their own righteousness or trusting in their own righteousness but in the righteousness of the one they had nailed to the Cross. But as the Church, we already have and live as the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus.

It’s the same with justification. In Isaiah 45:25, talking about the millennial period, the Bible says, “In the LORD shall all the seed of Israel be justified, and shall glory.” They’ll come into justification at the Millennium; meanwhile,we’ve had and lived in justification for two thousand years.

Romans 5:1 says we’ve been justified; that is, declared righteous; acquitted. Acts 13:39 says by him (Jesus Christ), all that believe are justified from all things, from which they couldn’t be justified by the Law of Moses. We have and enjoy now what has been promised to the Jews in the Millennium. Hallelujah!

CONFESSION
I was born in righteousness, to produce fruits and works of righteousness to the glory of the Father. I rejoice for the gift of righteousness bequeathed to me through the death of Jesus Christ. Therefore, I reign in righteousness; I reign over circumstances and the elements of this world, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Romans 3:21-22 (NIV) But now apart from the law the righteousness of God has been made known, to which the Law and the Prophets testify. 22 This righteousness is given through faith in[a] Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference between Jew and Gentile,

Romans 5:1 (AMPC) Therefore, since we are justified ([a]acquitted, declared righteous, and given a right standing with God) through faith, let us [grasp the fact that we] have [the peace of reconciliation to hold and to [b]enjoy] peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed One).

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Mark 14:53-72 & Numbers 29-31

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Matthew 22:1-14 & Exodus 20

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

SUNDAY 12TH MARCH

THEME: FIX YOUR GAZE ON TRUTH

THEME SCRIPTURE: And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free (John 8:32).

Truth liberates, uplifts, blesses and transforms. Truth inspires and energizes you. And what is truth? Truth is the Word of God. John 17:17 says, “…thy Word is truth.” Guiding us into all truth is the ministry of the Holy Spirit; it’s something that God wants for your life. He is the Spirit of truth. Truth is reality.

One day, the Lord showed me something really remarkable about knowing and walking in truth. I’ve mentioned it on different fora, but it bears repeating. It was about a man who was diagnosed with cancer and was told he had only a short time to live.

But when the Lord showed me the same man in a vision, He said, “Look at him; he’s been diagnosed with cancer; therefore, he believes he has cancer. But in reality, there’s no cancer.” Then I looked at the man and there was no cancer in his body.

That means factually, there was cancer, but when you superimpose the truth on facts, the facts will change and line up with truth. This is what many don’t realise. But that’s how to walk with God; that’s how to live with God. You superimpose His Word—the Truth—on the facts and circumstances of life.

It brings to mind what 2 Corinthians 4:18 says: “…for the things which are seen are temporal…”; that means they’re subject to change. The growth or tumour may be there, but the Word of God—which is the TRUTH and the reality—says you’re perfected in Christ.

Take your eyes away from facts; fix your gaze on truth, on the reality of God’s Word, which confirms and guarantees your victory, divine health, prosperity, dominion, and glorious life in Christ. Glory to God!

PRAYER
Dear Father, your Word is truth on which I fix my gaze. Your Word confirms my prosperity, divine health, victory, dominion and glorious life in Christ. I make progress from glory to glory by living in and by the Word, which produces for me and in me the reality that it conveys, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Jonah 2:8 (KJV) They that observe lying vanities forsake their own mercy.

Romans 4:20-21 (KJV) He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God; 21 And being fully persuaded that, what he had promised, he was able also to perform.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18 (KJV) For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. 17 For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory; 18 While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Mark 15:1-20 & Numbers 32-33

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Matthew 22:15-22 & Exodus 21

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

MONDAY 13TH MARCH

THEME: AUTHORITY OVER ALL THE POWER OF THE ENEMY

THEME SCRIPTURE: Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you (Luke 10:19).

The word, “power” is referenced twice in the verse above. But they don’t exactly mean the same thing. In the first reference where it says, “Behold I give unto you power,” it’s translated from the Greek, “exousia”, which means authority. The second one is from “dunamis” (Greek), which means power, ability, or “working.” Jesus gave us absolute authority over the power, ability or workings of the adversary.

There’s a difference between authority and ability. Let’s take the president of your country as an example. In his personal capacity, he can’t withstand the army of his country. But he’s got the authority of the state behind him! When he exercises supreme command and control over his armed force or the military, they have to comply!

With all their weapons of war, the entire armed forces are at the president’s bidding; when he gives an instruction, they’re obligated to obey. They have power, weight or substance; but the president has authority. Authority changes everything.

It doesn’t matter how much power or force the enemy wields or can gather; you’ve been given authority over him in Jesus’ Name. The Bible says His Name is “high above all other government and authority and power and dominion, and every title of sovereignty used either in this Age or in the Age to come” (Ephesians 1:21 WNT). Hallelujah!

When this same Jesus tells you, “nothing shall by any means hurt you,” you better believe and act on it. Read what He tells us in 1 John 4:4: “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.” Glorious news!

No wonder the Psalmist affirmed, “The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid?” (Psalm 27:1). You have nothing to fear in this life. Reign and rule in the Name of Jesus every day. Hallelujah!

CONFESSION
My authority in Christ is perfect and absolute. No evil, demon, or darkness can resist it! I’m seated with Christ, far above principalities and powers and everything that’s connected to Satan. I reign and rule over circumstances. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:
Matthew 28:18-20 (KJV) – 18 And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. 19 Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: 20 Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. Amen.

Philippians 2:9-10 (KJV) – 9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: 10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;

Ephesians 2:6 (KJV) – 6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Mark 15:21-47 & Numbers 34-36

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Matthew 22:23-33 & Exodus 22

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

TUESDAY 14TH MARCH

THEME: YOU’RE HIGHLY FAVOURED

THEME SCRIPTURE: But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption. ( 1 Corinthians 1:30)

As a Christian, the favour of God upon your life has distinguished and qualified you to be the head and not the tail, to be the best and receive the best. Psalm 5:12 says, “For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.” In your life, be forever conscious that you’re divinely favoured. Ephesians 1:6 says He has made us accepted in the beloved.

The word, “accepted” there is the Greek, “charitoō” which refers to being highly favoured. It’s the same word that the angel brought to Mary in Luke 1:28: “And the angel came in unto her, and said, Hail, thou that art highly favoured, the Lord is with thee: blessed art thou among women.” If the angel were to come to you today, he’ll use the same expressions, because it’s already written concerning you that you’re blessed and highly favoured!

This is what Paul was telling the Christians in Corinth in our theme verse when he called them sanctified. The word, “sanctification” is from the Greek “hagiasmos” and it means to be separated unto God, to be distinguished in Christ. You’ve become friends with God. Luke 2:52 says concerning the Master, “And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.”

Did you know that the same is true about you? You have favour with God and with man. Therefore, in your life, welcome favours every day. Your life has been beautified with divine favours from God. Affirm this every day about yourself. Hallelujah!

CONFESSION
The favour of God upon my life has qualified me to be the best and receive the best. Today and always, in every place and in all that I do, God’s supernatural favour is manifested in my behalf. It opens doors and opportunities to me that can’t be humanly explained. I’m conscious of the favour-factor. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY
Psalm 5:12 NIV; Genesis 39:21-23; Daniel 1:9

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Mark 16:1-20 & Deuteronomy 1-2

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Matthew 22:34-46 & Exodus 23

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

WEDNESDAY 15TH MARCH

THEME: BE MINDFUL OF SATAN’S STRATAGEM

THEME SCRIPTURE: Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour (1 Peter 5:8 ).

winning and the spread of the Gospel around the world is marked by God for blessings. Satan also targets such saints. If you’re a good giver in the house of God, for example, just as Heaven and the angels mark you for blessings, Satan also marks you for attacks.

What does Satan attack? What does he go for? It’s not just your job; he knows you’re not sponsoring the Gospel just because you have a good job. It’s not your money either, for he knows if he attacks your finances, you can always get more. What he goes for is the Word of God in your life. He knows that that’s your secret; he knows the Word is your inspiration and strength.

You weren’t committed to the things of God and to giving financially in the house of God until you heard the Word that changed your life and made you commit your life and resources to the spread of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. So, it’s about the Word! The devil will try to take the Word away from you or discourage you. He’ll try to keep you away from the church or cause trouble between you and whoever teaches you the Word.

As the opening verse says, “Be sober, be vigilant…” (1 Peter 5:8 ). Guard the Word in your heart. Always drive it deep into your spirit through meditation. Continue evermore in the fellowship where the Word is being taught you, rejoicing in the Lord always.

The more committed you are to the things of God and in the house of God, the more vigilant you ought to be in the spirit, walking in love and humility. Keep increasing in the knowledge of God’s Word, and speak in tongues often. Be filled with the Spirit, and your spiritual alertness and sensitivity will always be at its peak.

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for your Word which guides and directs me in the way that I should go. Thank you for the privilege and blessing of being committed to the spread of the Gospel. I refuse to allow anything to dissipate my zeal or prevent me from putting my best in the Gospel. I’m filled with the Spirit, spiritually sensitive and alert at all times, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
1 Peter 5:8-11 (KJV) – 8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world. 10 But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you. 11 To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

Ephesians 6:10-11 (AMPC) – 10 In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [be empowered through your union with Him]; draw your strength from Him [that strength which His boundless might provides]. 11 Put on God’s whole armor [the armor of a heavy-armed soldier which God supplies], that you may be able successfully to stand up against [all] the strategies and the deceits of the devil.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Luke 1:1-25 & Deuteronomy 3-4

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Matthew 23:1-12 & Exodus 24

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

THURSDAY 16 MARCH

THEME: HIS AUTHORITY IS FOR OUR BENEFIT

THEME SCRIPTURE: God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church (Ephesians 1:22 NLT)

The Church of Jesus Christ is a mighty, indomitable force. No institution, power, government or entity can stand against it. This is because the dominion and rulership of Jesus over principalities and powers; over every ruler, authority, government, and realm of power in existence, is for the benefit of the Church.

The Church is enthroned with Him. We should be fully aware of our authority in Christ. The Bible says about Jesus, “Now he is far above any ruler or authority or power or leader or anything else—not only in this world but also in the world to come” (Ephesians 1:21 NLT).

The 22nd verse is what we read in our theme verse.It says, “God has put all things under the authority of Christ and has made him head over all things for the benefit of the church” (Ephesians 1:22 NLT). God gave Christ this authority for the benefit of the Church. He’s already done it! All the title and power given to Jesus will be of no use if we (the Church) don’t use it. It’s ours to use. He gave us His Name so that we could use it to keep Satan in check, and prevail over circumstances.

He has put us in charge of this world, to tame it and overwhelm it with His righteousness, glory and grace. This is why you should affirm every day, “I reign and rule over Satan and the elements of this world!” Hallelujah!

Refuse to be overwhelmed by anything in life; use the authority of Jesus. Use His Name. All authority is vested in His Name; use it every day.

PRAYER
Jesus has all power and authority, and He’s far above all kings, presidents, and governments. And now, I stand against the forces of darkness that influence nations against their own people, causing hardship and preventing men from experiencing the goodness of God in the earth. Their efforts are futile, and their manipulations are ineffective, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Ephesians 2:5-6 (AMPC) Even when we were dead (slain) by [our own] shortcomings and trespasses, He made us alive together in fellowship and in union with Christ; [He gave us the very life of Christ Himself, the same new life with which He quickened Him, for] it is by grace (His favor and mercy which you did not deserve) that you are saved ([a]delivered from judgment and made partakers of Christ’s salvation). 6 And He raised us up together with Him and made us sit down together [giving us [b]joint seating with Him] in the heavenly sphere [by virtue of our being] in Christ Jesus (the Messiah, the Anointed One).

Colossians 1:9-10 (KJV) For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; 10 That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Luke 1:26-56 & Deuteronomy 5-7

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Matthew 23:13-22 & Exodus 25

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL,

FRIDAY 17TH MARCH 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: MAKE THE TRUTH KNOWN

THEME SCRIPTURE: And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free (John 8:32).

In these last days, the strategy of the enemy is to destroy many with fear and deception. But the way to tackle and cure the effects of deception is by making the truth known.

That’s why we’re so grateful to God for Rhapsody of Realities. Through it, we’re making the truth known every day, in every nation and in every known and living language of the world. Blessed be God!

Be a part of the great crusade of spreading the truth to the nooks and crannies of the earth through the distribution of Rhapsody of Realities in all languages of the world to all nations. God wants to protect His people. He wants to guide and lead them, and He does this through the Word and the Holy Spirit.

Let’s make His truth known. When people don’t know the Word of God, they get deceived, robbed, and destroyed. God said, “My people are destroyed for their lack of knowledge.” Not only should you consciously increase in your knowledge of God, help others to know the Word.

Jesus said in Matthew 28:19, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations...._ In other words, teach them the truth; show them how to live so they’re not deceived. Anyone who’s ignorant of the Word of God is in darkness, because the Word of God is truth and light.

It’s the same for anyone who’s destitute of the Holy Spirit, for the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of truth. He’s the One who guides you into all truth so you can walk in truth and also make it known to others. His truth (His Word) is your shield and buckler (Psalm 91:4). That’s why you need to have your attention on the Word; it liberates you and dispels the darkness.

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for your Word that causes me to stay in truth and walk in your perfect will. As your children all around the world make your truth known, your righteousness is established around the world, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
1 John 4:1
Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.

1 John 4:5-6
They are of the world: therefore speak they of the world, and the world heareth them. 6 We are of God: he that knoweth God heareth us; he that is not of God heareth not us. Hereby know we the spirit of truth, and the spirit of error.

Psalm 91:4
He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth [shall be thy] shield and buckler.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Luke 1:57-80 & Deuteronomy 8-10

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Matthew 23:23-39 & Exodus 26

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

SATURDAY 18TH MARCH

THEME: YOU’RE GOD’S HOPE FOR THE WORLD

THEME SCRIPTURE: Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God (Hebrews 10:7).

Sometimes, we try to get God to do something about the world, about the plight of suffering humanity, not realizing we’re actually His hope for the world. We’re His outstretched arm of blessing to the world. He blessed us, and made us the conveyors of His blessings to our world.

His Word says He made all things beautiful; He created humanity to live in peace, joy, safety, prosperity and abundance. He wants us to keep things that way. We’re supposed to look at the things happening in the nations that aren’t consistent with the will of God and effect changes. We’re the ones to prove His good, acceptable, and perfect will in the earth (Romans 12:2).

It brings to mind the words of Jesus in Matthew 18:18: “Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.” Understand what this means: we give vent to the glory of God in the earth. We give vent to His will. We allow the good things of God to come into this world.

We’re the ones to scrutinize everything in the world and decide which is acceptable or is in the perfect will of God, and then bring that into this earth. It’s our calling. No wonder the Bible says, “For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God… the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God” (Romans 8:19-21).

We’re the hope of the world to bring joy, righteousness, peace and prosperity. We’re the ones to deliver the world from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the sons of God, and we’re at it. Hallelujah!

PRAYER:
I’m God’s outstretched arm of blessing to my world; a beacon of hope to a hurting world. Through me, the Lord spreads His righteousness and brings newness, excellence, perfection, beauty and life to all creation, delivering them into the glorious liberty of the sons of God. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:
Jeremiah 1:10-12
10 See, I have this day appointed you to the oversight of the nations and of the kingdoms to root out and pull down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant.

11 Moreover, the word of the Lord came to me, saying, Jeremiah, what do you see? And I said, I see a branch or shoot of an almond tree [the emblem of alertness and activity, blossoming in late winter].

12 Then said the Lord to me, You have seen well, for I am alert andactive, watching over My word to perform it.

Romans 8:19-21 AMPC
19 For [even the whole] creation (all nature) waits expectantly and longs earnestly for God’s sons to be made known [waits for the revealing, the disclosing of their sonship].

20 For the creation (nature) was subjected to frailty (to futility, condemned to frustration), not because of some intentional fault on its part, but by the will of Him Who so subjected it—[yet] with the hope

21 That nature (creation) itself will be set free from its bondage to decay and corruption [and gain an entrance] into the glorious freedom of God’s children.

Mark 16:15-18
15 And He said to them, Go into all the world and preach and publish openly the good news (the Gospel) to every creature [of the whole human race].

16 He who believes [who adheres to and trusts in and relies on the Gospel and Him Whom it sets forth] and is baptized will be saved [from the penalty of eternal death]; but he who does not believe [who does not adhere to and trust in and rely on the Gospel and Him Whom it sets forth] will be condemned.

17 And these attesting signs will accompany those who believe: in My name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new languages;

18 They will pick up serpents; and [even] if they drink anything deadly, it will not hurt them; they will lay their hands on the sick, and they will get well.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 2:1-20 & Deuteronomy 11-12

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 24:1-11 & Exodus 27

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL,

SUNDAY 19TH MARCH 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: HEALING AND HEALTH IN HIS NAME

THEME SCRIPTURE: And his name through faith in his name hath made this man strong, whom ye see and know: yea, the faith which is by him hath given him this perfect soundness in the presence of you all (Acts 3:16).

It’s amazing what we can do, what we can have—the blessings and glory we can experience—when we use the Name of Jesus. Think about what we just read in our opening verse. The Name of Jesus brings healing and health; perfect soundness to your body. Glory to God!

Throughout the gospels, you find various instances where people touched the hem of Jesus’ garments and received instant healing. An example is the woman with the issue of blood in Luke 8. The Bible says she came behind Jesus and “...touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched” (Luke 8:44).

The word “border” in this verse is “Kraspedon” in Greek and it means “fringes” or “tassels.” Also, in Matthew 14, when Jesus came to the land of Gennesaret, the people of that region rushed to Him for healing, and the Bible says they “...besought him that they might only touch the hem of his garment: and as many as touched were made perfectly whole” (Matthew 14:36).

The Master didn’t have to do anything; all they needed was to touch the border or fringes of His garment and they were healed. But it’s even more glorious today! You don’t have to touch His garment; at the mention of His Name, every sickness bows; cancers dematerialize; maimed or paralysed limbs are made whole. His Name is the answer today.

In Mark 6:56, the Bible says everywhere Jesus entered: “...villages, or cities, or country, they laid the sick in the streets, and besought him that they might touch if it were but the border of his garment: and as many as touched him were made whole.” That same power is still available today in His Name.

No wonder He charged us to heal the sick, cleanse the lepers and raise the dead (Matthew 10:. He said in Mark 16:17-18, “And these signs shall follow them that believe...they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.” Blessed be God!

PRAYER
Lord, I pray for your children who may be sick in their bodies, that they rise from that place of limitation and bondage today and be healed in Jesus’ Name. Your life in them makes them whole; Christ in them brings them perfect soundness of mind and body. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:
John 10:10; The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

Acts 3:16 AMPC; And His name, through and by faith in His name, has made this man whom you see and recognize well and strong. [Yes] the faith which is through and by Him [Jesus] has given the man this perfect soundness [of body] before all of you.

Philippians 2:9-11 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 2:21-52 & Deuteronomy 13-15

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 24:12-22 & Exodus 28

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

MONDAY 20TH MARCH 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: TRIUMPHANT IN CHRIST

THEME SCRIPTURE: Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place
(2 Corinthians 2:14).

The world today might be experiencing terribly agonizing times, but the Bible clearly shows that these things aren't new: “The thing that hath been, it is that which shall be; and that which is done is that which shall be done: and there is no new thing under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1:9).

There were economic hardship, deception, fear, and terrorism back then as there are today. These were, and still are, tricks used by the adversary to oppress people. But our God is faithful throughout all generations. He leads us in perpetual triumph. It doesn’t matter the darkness in the world, refuse to fear.

1 John 4:4 says, “Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world.” God has ordained your victory, promotion and prosperity in the midst of darkness. He already planned that you’ll be a success in this life, irrespective of what’s going on in the world around you: "Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord" (Romans 8:37-39).

CONFESSION
I thank you Father for your glory in my life, for making the lines fall unto me in pleasant places and giving me a goodly heritage. I live and walk in wealth and health. Greater is He that’s in me than he that’s in the world. I'm the glory of God!

FURTHER STUDY:
Psalm 37:18-19; The Lord knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever. They shall not be ashamed in the evil time: and in the days of famine they shall be satisfied.

Psalm 91:5-6; Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; nor for the arrow that flieth by day; Nor for the pestilence that walketh in darkness; nor for the destruction that wasteth at noonday.

1 Corinthians 15:57: But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 3:1-38 & Deuteronomy 16-17

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 24:23-33 & Exodus 29

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

TUESDAY 21ST MARCH 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: DON’T GIVE UP ON THEM

THEME SCRIPTURE: Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such a one in the spirit of meekness… (Galatians 6:1).

As Christians and soul winners, we should be concerned enough to know if anyone in our congregation has strayed away or fallen by the wayside. We’re never to give up on anyone. The Lord expects us to account for every soul.

The words of Jesus in John 17:12 should be our inspiration always in dealing with those that the Lord adds to the Church. He said, “While I was with them in the world, I kept them in thy name: those that thou gavest me I have kept, and none of them is lost, but the son of perdition; that the scripture might be fulfilled” (John 17:12). The Lord Jesus accounted for every soul that God gave Him.

Soul winning must have accountability; we have to be accountable for the souls the Lord has given to us. In Luke 15, the Lord Jesus told the parable of a shepherd with one hundred sheep who left the ninety-nine to go search for the one that got missing in the wilderness. When he found it, he carried it home rejoicing, and invited his friends and neighbours to celebrate. Then, the Master said, “I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in heaven over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons, which need no repentance” (Luke 15:7). Here, Jesus was ministering to the Jews, but He wasn’t talking about one who had never come to the Lord, but one who had strayed away.

There’s a difference between the one who has never been in the church and the one who’s been in church but strayed away. We must go after them to win them back. So, today, call or visit that brother, sister, or family that you know hasn’t been coming to church. Share the love of Christ with them and keep interceding for them. When you win them back, the Bible says there’ll be great joy in heaven. Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Lord, I pray that your grace and mercy locate everyone who’s been in the Church, but for some reason has strayed away. May their love for you be rekindled, birthing a fresh appetite for your Word and the things of the Spirit. I pray that as Christ is formed in them, they’d be deeply rooted and grounded in faith and in your love, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Ephesians 3:14-19 For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, 15 Of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, 16 That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, May be able to comprehend with all saints what [is] the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

Galatians 6:1 Brethren, if a man be overtaken in a fault, ye which are spiritual, restore such an one in the spirit of meekness; considering thyself, lest thou also be tempted.

Luke 15:8-11 Either what woman having ten pieces of silver, if she lose one piece, doth not light a candle, and sweep the house, and seek diligently till she find [it]? And when she hath found [it], she calleth [her] friends and [her] neighbours together, saying, Rejoice with me; for I have found the piece which I had lost. Likewise, I say unto you, there is joy in the presence of the angels of God over one sinner that repenteth. And he said, A certain man had two sons:

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 4:1-13 & Deuteronomy 18-21

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 24:34-44 & Exodus 30

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

WEDNESDAY 22 MARCH

THEME: WISDOM AND RIGHTEOUSNESS

THEME SCRIPTURE: The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want…He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake (Psalm 23:1,3).

Did you know that wisdom and righteousness are intertwined? The wisdom (Greek: “phronesis”) that I’m talking about is practical wisdom. It’s the outworking of the righteousness of God in your life. When we talk about the righteousness of God, we’re talking about practical wisdom at work, the expression of “phronesis.”

We’re children of righteousness, and you can’t walk in righteousness and fail in wisdom (“phronesis”). The underlined portion of our theme verse says, “…he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness….” Walking in the paths of righteousness is “phronesis.” It means you don’t go anywhere by chance. You don’t meet anybody by chance; in your path, there’re no accidents. Everything is prearranged by God.

In studying the relationship between wisdom and righteousness in Proverbs 8:12-18, Wisdom says, “I wisdom dwell with prudence, and find out knowledge of witty inventions. The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogancy, and the evil way, and the froward mouth, do I hate. Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength. By me kings reign, and princes decree justice. By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges of the earth. I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me. Riches and honour are with me; yea, durable riches and righteousness.”

With wisdom leading you in the paths of righteousness, you could never be poor. So, every day, declare, “Wisdom is at work in me today! No chance occurrences in my life. Predestination is at work in me.” Your life was planned by God to be in the paths of wisdom and righteousness. Praise God!

PRAYER:
Wisdom is at work in me today, and I’m set on a preordained path of righteousness! Predestination is at work in me. I don’t go anywhere by chance. I don’t meet anybody by chance; in my path of life, there’s no death. My life has a purpose with God. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY
Proverbs 8:12-21
12 I, Wisdom [from God], make prudence my dwelling, and I find out knowledge and discretion.

13 The reverent fear and worshipful awe of the Lord [includes] the hatred of evil; pride, arrogance, the evil way, and perverted andtwisted speech I hate.

14 I have counsel and sound knowledge, I have understanding, I have might and power.

15 By me kings reign and rulers decree justice.

16 By me princes rule, and nobles, even all the judges andgovernors of the earth.

17 I love those who love me, and those who seek me early and diligently shall find me.

18 Riches and honor are with me, enduring wealth and righteousness (uprightness in every area and relation, and right standing with God).

19 My fruit is better than gold, yes, than refined gold, and my increase than choice silver.

20 I [Wisdom] walk in the way of righteousness (moral and spiritual rectitude in every area and relation), in the midst of the paths of justice,

21 That I may cause those who love me to inherit [true] riches and that I may fill their treasuries.

1 Corinthians 1:30
30 But it is from Him that you have your life in Christ Jesus, Whom God made our Wisdom from God, [revealed to us a knowledge of the divine plan of salvation previously hidden, manifesting itself as] our Righteousness [thus making us upright and putting us in right standing with God], and our Consecration [making us pure and holy], and our Redemption [providing our ransom from eternal penalty for sin].

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 4:14-44 & Deuteronomy 22-24

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 24:45-51 & Exodus 31

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

THURSDAY 23RD MARCH 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: THE KEY IS YIELDING TO THE WORD

THEME SCRIPTURE: But if ye have bitter envying and strife in your hearts, glory not, and lie not against the truth (James 3:14).

The verse of scripture above was written to God's people. It shows that it’s possible to find a Christian who could be walking in bitterness, envy and strife. According to our theme verse, when you notice bitterness, envy, and strife in your heart, take a stand against them. Don't deny them; deal with them, because they’re devilish.

In the ensuing verse 15, still referring to anger, bitterness and strife, it says, “This wisdom descendeth not from above, but is earthly, sensual, devilish” (James 3:15). The word “devilish” above is the Greek, “daimoniōdēs” which means “demonic” or that which is inspired by a demon.

Don't allow your life to be influenced by demons; don't get into strife. Ordinarily, Satan can’t force his will upon anyone, except those who yield to his antics and influence. Sadly, some people yield themselves to the devil without realizing it. It’s the reason you must walk in the Spirit and in the knowledge of the Word at all times. This is vital for a victorious Christian life.

Galatians 5:16 says, “This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.” The same James who wrote what we read in our theme verse also wrote in James 4:7, “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.” You submit yourself to God by yielding to the Word.

Then, being yielded to the Word, resist the devil and he’ll flee from you. That’s the key: it’s being yielded to the Word; giving yourself to the Word by doing the Word! It’ll rid you of envy, strife, pride, jealousy, bitterness, anger and everything unwholesome or unclean. It’ll bring you into a place of sanctification. Praise God!

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for the impact of your Word in my spirit, soul and body. My life is filled with the joy and glory of your righteousness as I walk in the light of your Word. Every darkness is dispelled from my path because I walk in the Spirit and light of your Word, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Ephesians 4:31 Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:

James 1:22-25 But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves. For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was. But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth [therein], he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 5:1-16 & Deuteronomy 25-27

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 25:1-13 & Exodus 32

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

FRIDAY 24TH MARCH

THEME: USE WHAT YOU HAVE GOT

THEME SCRIPTURE: And Jesus rebuked him, saying, Hold thy peace, and come out of him. And when the unclean spirit had torn him, and cried with a loud voice, he came out of him (Mark 1:25-26).

As Christians, we’ve been given dominion over Satan and the powers of darkness in the Name of Jesus. We have to use what we’ve got. Don’t negotiate with demons. When you say to them, “Out!” they have to obey because you’re using the authority of the Lord Jesus.

The Bible says the people were amazed at Jesus in His day because with authority He commanded unclean spirits and they obeyed Him (Mark 1:27). The Bible says, “…he cast out the spirits with his word…” (Matthew 8:16). That’s what you’re to do.

Exercise your dominion in Christ; use the power of the Holy Spirit. The Good News Bible translation of our theme verse says, “Jesus ordered the spirit, ‘Be quiet, and come out of the man!’ The evil spirit shook the man hard, gave a loud scream, and came out of him.” They couldn’t resist Jesus; and they can’t resist you.

As you pray and intercede for people and for nations, cast out devils! Command the evil spirits responsible for the wickedness, confusion and darkness in the world to come out of your nation, city, town and village. Command the prince of the power of the air to take his hands off the people so the light of the glorious Gospel of Christ may shine in their hearts to receive salvation.

Satan has no right to run things in your life, in your home or in the lives of your loved ones. Exercise your authority in Christ against him. Don’t wait for someone else to do it for you. Every Christian has the ability to cast out devils. Jesus has given you the authority; walk and live in His Name. Use what you’ve got!

CONFESSION
I have authority over demons and the cohorts of darkness in the Name of Jesus. Therefore, I break the cords of bondage over men’s lives! The righteousness of God is established in the nations, cities, towns and villages of the world, in the Name of Jesus! What a life of glory, dominion and power given to us in Christ Jesus, to live above Satan and his cohorts of darkness. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:
Luke 9:1 (KJV) – Then he called his twelve disciples together, and gave them power and authority over all devils, and to cure diseases.

Luke 10:19 (KJV) – Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.

Mark 16:15-18 (KJV) – 15 And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. 16 He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. 17 And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; 18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Luke 5:17-39 & Deuteronomy 28

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Matthew 25:14-30 & Exodus 33

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

SATURDAY 25TH MARCH

THEME: EFFECTS AND BENEFITS OF PRAYING ALWAYS

THEME SCRIPTURE: And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint (Luke 18:1).

Prayer is important for the Christian. There’re certain things that won’t change until you pray. Prayer covers not only the communication—the content of the prayer—but also our meditation during the times of prayer.

Even the seclusion is important; when you have to shut yourself away from everything and everyone else and be alone with the Spirit of God so He can talk to you and open your eyes. As you speak in tongues, rolling your mind through the Scriptures, He’ll unveil Himself and His truth to your spirit. Hallelujah!

These are some of the secrets from God’s Kingdom given to His children to be successful in life. You ought to live in victory even in the midst of the storms, and the life of victory in Christ is very simple. Whenever it’s possible to stay away from everything else to pray, do it. Always stir yourself and respond to the call and urgency of prayer from your spirit.

Jesus said, “…men ought always to pray…” (Luke 18:1). Ephesians 6:18 says, “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit….” Give attention to praying in tongues. You have to pray always by the Holy Spirit; the words have to be energized, communicated, inspired and anointed by the Holy Ghost. That’s what makes the difference. Praise God!

PRAYER
Heavenly Father, thank you for the privilege to fellowship with you in prayer. I receive that discipline to always get stirred and respond to the call and urgency of prayer from my spirit. Through prayer, my spirit and mind are conditioned, until your thoughts become my thoughts, and your words become my words, communicated by the power of the Holy Spirit to cause a change in my world, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Ephesians 6:18 (AMPC) – Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God’s consecrated people).

Luke 18:1 (NIV) – Then Jesus told his disciples a parable to show them that they should always pray and not give up.

1 Thessalonians 5:17 (KJV) – Pray without ceasing.

1 John 5:14-15 (NIV) – 14 This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us—whatever we ask—we know that we have what we asked of him.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Luke 6:1-16 & Deuteronomy 29-30

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Matthew 25:31-46 & Exodus 34

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

SUNDAY 26TH MARCH

THEME: LOOK TO THE WORD

THEME SCRIPTURE: Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith… (Hebrews 12:2).

In John 3:14, the Lord Jesus said something symbolic. He said, “And as Moses lifted up the serpent in the wilderness, even so must the Son of man be lifted up.” This had to do with the Jews in the wilderness, when they were bitten by fiery serpents that caused them burning pain and death.

God then instructed Moses to make a serpent of brass, raise it on a pole, and everyone who looked at it would live. He didn’t say they should look at the serpent and pray; there were no ceremonies, no rituals; all they had to do was to look at the brazen serpent and live. And when they looked, they were healed. Hallelujah!

This was symbolic of Jesus at the Cross, taking your place of sorrow, pain, disappointment, sickness and failure, that you should never suffer them. But beyond the Cross, we now have His life. We live because He lives.

By reason of His resurrection, we’ve been brought into a newness of life: “Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). The life we have now is divine.

Therefore, what you have to look at today isn’t the Cross, but His Word! In His Word, you see what He’s done for you, who He’s made you, and your heritage in Him. Our opening verse says looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. Who is Jesus? He is the Word!

It makes no difference the dire situations and circumstances that you face; don’t gripe or whimper! Look to the Word! Look to the Word and see your glorious and glorified life! Look to the Word and see your success, victory and prosperity. Look to the Word and see that you’re indomitable, full of the Holy Ghost and power. Hallelujah!

CONFESSION
As I feed on the Word, success, favours, and grace are multiplied in my life. My life is an endless stream of blessings and the miraculous because I live in, and by the Word. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Acts 20:32 (KJV)
And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.

Matthew 4:4 (KJV)
But he answered and said, It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God.

John 1:1-3 &14 (KJV)
1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made. John 1: 14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Luke 6:17-49 & Deuteronomy 31-32

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Matthew 26:1-13 & Exodus 35

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

MONDAY 27TH MARCH 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: THE SPIRIT PRAYING THROUGH YOU

THEME SCRIPTURE: Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered (Romans 8:26).

One of the most important kinds of prayer is one in which the Holy Spirit Himself prays through you in intercession for the saints. That’s what we read in our opening verse above. There’s the one in which your spirit is praying in tongues, like the Apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 14:14: “For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.”

However, there’re times your spirit may have been praying and it gets to the level where the Holy Spirit takes over that prayer. At that moment, it’s not your spirit that's praying anymore but the Holy Spirit praying through you with deep sighs and groanings. You find yourself praying with intense, profuse uncontrollable tears; you’re wailing, not out of sorrow or anguish but of soul-travail. No words are being formed; you even have to hold your stomach as though you’re in pain, but there’s no pain. It’s the Holy Spirit travailing in prayer through you.

Read our theme scripture again; it says the Spirit Himself makes intercession for us with groanings which can’t be uttered in articulate speech. This is an amazing way to pray effectively and it’s important that you yield yourself to the Holy Spirit to pray through you like this from time to time. It’s His work through you.

When He prays through you, Romans 8:28 tells us the result: “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.” Hallelujah!

CONFESSION
I’m ever conscious and yielded to the ministry of the Holy Spirit in my personal life. There’s no disadvantage for me. I'm full of joy and I'm full of love and I walk in righteousness and in prosperity; goodness and mercy follow me every day of my life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Romans 8:26‭-‬28 AMPC So too the [Holy] Spirit comes to our aid and bears us up in our weakness; for we do not know what prayer to offer nor how to offer it worthily as we ought, but the Spirit Himself goes to meet our supplication and pleads in our behalf with unspeakable yearnings and groanings too deep for utterance. And He Who searches the hearts of men knows what is in the mind of the [Holy] Spirit [what His intent is], because the Spirit intercedes and pleads [before God] in behalf of the saints according to and in harmony with God's will. We are assured and know that [God being a partner in their labor] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for those who love God and are called according to [His] design and purpose.

Jude 1:20 AMPC But you, beloved, build yourselves up [founded] on your most holy faith [make progress, rise like an edifice higher and higher], praying in the Holy Spirit;

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 7:1-35 & Deuteronomy 33-34

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 26:14-25 & Exodus 36

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

TUESDAY 28TH MARCH 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: STAY IN CHRIST

THEME SCRIPTURE: No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper; and every tongue that shall rise against thee in judgment thou shalt condemn. This is the heritage of the servants of the LORD, and their righteousness is of me, saith the LORD (Isaiah 54:17).

This opening verse is one of the blessings of Israel’s millennial kingdom under the Messiah; but it’s true of us in Christ today. In Him, we live and move and have our being. We’re guaranteed divine protection from all weapons of any nature, formed or used against us.

In Christianity, we dwell in Christ. Christ is our home. In Christ, we’re in safety. We’re immune from hurt or harm. It’s like what God did for the children of Israel in the Old Testament. Exodus 12:22-23 says, "And ye shall take a bunch of hyssop, and dip it in the blood that is in the bason, and strike the lintel and the two side posts with the blood that is in the bason; and none of you shall go out at the door of his house until the morning. For the LORD will pass through to smite the Egyptians; and when he seeth the blood upon the lintel, and on the two side posts, the LORD will pass over the door, and will not suffer the destroyer to come in unto your houses to smite you."

He told the children of Israel to stay inside their houses because the death angel was coming to town; there would be no safety outside. Then He instructed them to mark their doorposts and lintels with blood to prevent them from being destroyed along with the Egyptians.

They did as God instructed and they were preserved. As long as they stayed where God told them to stay, the death angel couldn't touch them. It’s the same thing today; as long as you’re in Christ—as long as you stay in the truth of God’s Word—death, evil and peril will "pass over" you. You’ll live perpetually in victory.

When the reality of the Word and who you are in Christ dawns on you, you suddenly come to a place of absolute confidence and independence, where you realize that you’re superior to Satan and nothing he does can affect you. This is our life in Christ. Glory to God!

CONFESSION
I dwell in the secret place of the Most High, and under the shadow of the Almighty. He is my refuge and my fortress. I'm forever protected and fortified against all evil, wickedness and corrupting influences in the world because I dwell in Christ, the place of safety, glory, dominion and everlasting joy—where I reign and rule over circumstances, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
2 Corinthians 2:14 Now thanks [be] unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.

Psalm 91:5-9 Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; [nor] for the arrow [that] flieth by day; [Nor] for the pestilence [that] walketh in darkness; [nor] for the destruction [that] wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; [but] it shall not come nigh thee. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked. Because thou hast made the LORD, [which is] my refuge, [even] the most High, thy habitation;

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 7:36-50 & Joshua 1-2

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 26:26-35 & Exodus 37

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

WEDNESDAY 29TH MARCH 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: DEAL WITH IT ON YOUR KNEES

THEME SCRIPTURE: And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed (Luke 22:41).

Our opening verse reminds of what the Apostle Paul said in Ephesians 3:14-15: “I bow my knees before the Father of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named.” Learn to bow your knees in prayer. Sometimes people go through tough times and severe persecutions. The way to deal with such situations is on your knees in prayer.

In Luke 18:1-8, the Lord Jesus emphasized the importance of persistence in prayer. This is because being the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus, you can change anything through prayer. When Satan stirs persecution against us, take it to the Lord in prayer.

Never allow any crisis or situation take your attention such that you begin to mull it over, feeling helpless. One minute with the Holy Ghost will make a far much greater impact than five hours of melancholy and sad cogitations. So, pray in, and with, the spirit. "Is any among you afflicted? Let him pray…" (James 5:13). Ephesians 6:18 says, “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit….”

It doesn’t matter the persecution or how unsavoury the economy of your nation is; keep praying about it. Ecclesiastes 11:3 says, “If the clouds be full of rain, they empty themselves upon the earth: and if the tree fall toward the south, or toward the north, in the place where the tree falleth, there it shall be.”

Keep watering the clouds with prayer; soon enough, the condensation will take place and there’ll be a deluge: the answers will come pouring down.

CONFESSION
The Lord reigns and rules in the affairs of men. The Lord is strong and mighty, the God of all flesh, and there’s nothing too difficult for Him. He’s the God of possibilities, and He’s given me the power of attorney to use the Name of Jesus to effect the changes I desire. Therefore, I live an ever-winning life, with dominion over Satan and his cohorts, spreading the Gospel of Christ in my world and beyond, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Luke 18:1 And he spake a parable unto them [to this end], that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;

1 Thessalonians 5:17* Pray without ceasing.

James 5:16 AMPC Confess to one another therefore your faults (your slips, your false steps, your offenses, your sins) and pray [also] for one another, that you may be healed and restored [to a spiritual tone of mind and heart]. The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working].

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 8:1-21 & Joshua 3-4

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 26:36-46 & Exodus 38

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

THURSDAY 30TH MARCH

THEME: DON’T ENTERTAIN SATAN’S THOUGHTS

THEME SCRIPTURE: Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true…honest…Just…pure…lovely…of good report…think on these things (Philippians 4:8 ).

Some time ago, the report went viral of a 32-year-old nurse who was accused of murdering seven new-born babies, including two brothers from a set of triplets. She carried out this despicable act over the course of a year in the neonatal unit of a certain hospital.

The Police had recovered apparent confession notes from her home after her arrest in which she had penned some of her heinous thoughts. On one of the notes, she had written in capital letters: “I AM EVIL. I DID THIS.” What would make a lady carry out such a diabolic act, and confess herself as evil? Those suggestions were given to her by demons.

There’re so many evil things that demons make people do which the people, in their natural minds, would never do. But demons practise on people for some time by suggesting things to them. Those bad thoughts come to their minds again and again until they start enjoying them.

They may be thoughts of suicide or thoughts of hatred. Such thoughts can come to someone for no reason, and when he or she dwells on them, the demons go to the next level of making them act their thoughts.

That’s why Ephesians 4:27 says, “Neither give place to the devil.” You give place to him by giving place to his thoughts and words. Don’t entertain his thoughts. When He comes with those negative, depressing thoughts— thoughts that are contrary to God’s Word—tell him off immediately. Respond with the Word and he’ll flee.

If he tries to run rampage around you, remember what Jesus said would be a sign for those who believe in Him; He said, “…In my name shall they cast out devils…” (Mark 16:17). So, cast him out; cast out his thoughts.

So many things that happen in our world are influenced by demons. That’s because the system of the world was created by Satan. And only men and women of faith in the Word of God can use the Word of God to change things.

PRAYER:
Satan has nothing in me! I refuse to harbour fear, anger, grudge, bitterness, or unforgiveness, for love rules in my heart. The Word of God continually purifies my heart, purging it of all unrighteousness. And with the Word in my heart and on my lips, I’ll forever be indomitable. Praise God!

FURTHER STUDY
Ephesians 4:27 AMPC
27 Leave no [such] room or foothold for the devil [give no opportunity to him].

Proverbs 4:23
23 Keep and guard your heart with all vigilance and above all that you guard, for out of it flow the springs of life.

Philippians 4:8 AMPC
8 For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind andwinsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them].

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 8:22-39 & Joshua 5-6

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 26:36-46 & Exodus 38

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

FRIDAY 31ST MARCH 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: THIS IS OUR DAY

THEME SCRIPTURE: For the kingdom of God is not in word, but in power (1 Corinthians 4:20).

When Jesus came to this earth, it wasn’t His day. In Luke 22:53, at the verge of His crucifixion, He said to the soldiers, “…this is your hour, and the power of darkness.” So, He allowed Himself to be arrested. When He ministered, He didn’t go beyond the city of Jerusalem (Luke 24:49). That wasn’t His day.

The Day of Christ is when He returns to judge the nations and begin His 1,000-year reign upon the earth. (Read Philippians 1:10, Philippians 2:16, 2 Thessalonians 2:2). The Bible says, “In his days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is his name whereby he shall be called, THE LORD OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS” (Jeremiah 23:6).

All those things will happen in His days, for 1,000 years! That’s at the Millennium. But this is the day of the Church! Glory to God! Realize this and take advantage of it. This is the day in which we must use all that He’s given us for His glory. You've got to have the manifestation of power in your life! The Kingdom of God isn’t in words only, but in power also (1 Corinthians 4:20).

The tremendous miracles, signs and wonders performed by Jesus and the apostles were chronicled in the Bible to inspire us and to let us know we can do the same in our day through the power of the same Spirit. Use what you’ve got. Praise God!

PRAYER
This is the day of the Church, and thanks be unto God who always causes us to triumph in Christ and makes manifest the savour of His knowledge by us in every place! Thank you Lord, for this dispensation which you’ve given us for your glory and for the manifestation of your power in our lives. The supernatural has become an everyday experience for the Church, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Isaiah 53:10 Yet it pleased the LORD to bruise him; he hath put [him] to grief: when thou shalt make his soul an offering for sin, he shall see [his] seed, he shall prolong [his] days, and the pleasure of the LORD shall prosper in his hand.

Romans 8:19-21: For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. For the creature was made subject to vanity, not willingly, but by reason of him who hath subjected [the same] in hope, Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 8:40-56 & Joshua 7-9

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 26:57-68 & Exodus 40

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

SATURDAY 01 APRIL

THEME: PARALYZE HIS INFLUENCE

THEME SCRIPTURE: Wherein in time past ye walked according to the course of this world, according to the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that now worketh in the children of disobedience (Ephesians 2:2).

The expression, “…the power of the air…” in the scripture above refers to an atmosphere or behaviour indicative of some quality or trait; like you’d say, “An air of unbelief.” It could be the atmosphere in a region indicative of something foul, evil or dark about that place; it’s the work of the prince of the power of the air. But you’re to paralyze his influence.

Churches, people, families and individuals could be influenced by “the air” of their city without their knowing. The church that was in Corinth, for example, was influenced by the city of Corinth; likewise the church at Ephesus.

However, through the teaching of God’s Word, the apostles made the people understand that only through the Holy Spirit could they rise above the spirit of their environment and break the power of that prince of the power of the air.

The prince of the power of the air brings an air of poverty into a place, a feeling of inadequacy; he causes the destruction, hatred, killings, murders, wickedness and violence in the world today. He can run families, cities, kingdoms and nations, determining a lot of things that happen in them.

But the Bible says, “For through the voice of the LORD shall the Assyrian be beaten down, which smote with a rod” (Isaiah 30:31). The Assyrian is prophetic of the Antichrist spirit. The “voice of the LORD” is contextualized for us here as the Word of God spoken by the power of the Holy Spirit. That’s the “rhema” of God, which is the sword of the Spirit! It discomfits Satan and the princes of darkness.

With the Word on your lips, you destroy the activities of the prince of the power of the air; you paralyze his influence over your nation, your city, your family, personal life and environment. Hallelujah!

PRAYER:
I break the power of the spirit of darkness that lures men into destruction; I paralyze his influence over my nation. Christ reigns and rules in my life, family, business, city, and environment. In His Name, I declare peace in the nations, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY
Matthew 28:18-20

18 Jesus approached and, breaking the silence, said to them, All authority (all power of rule) in heaven and on earth has been given to Me.

19 Go then and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit,

20 Teaching them to observe everything that I have commanded you, and behold, I am with you all the days (perpetually, uniformly, and on every occasion), to the [very] close andconsummation of the age. Amen (so let it be).

Philippians 2:9-11
9 Therefore [because He stooped so low] God has highly exalted Him and has freely bestowed on Him the name that is above every name,

10 That in (at) the name of Jesus every knee should (must) bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

11 And every tongue [frankly and openly] confess and acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Psalm 149:5-9
5 Let the saints be joyful in the glory and beauty [which God confers upon them]; let them sing for joy upon their beds.

6 Let the high praises of God be in their throats and a two-edged sword in their hands,

7 To wreak vengeance upon the nations and chastisement upon the peoples,

8 To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron,

9 To execute upon them the judgment written. He [the Lord] is the honor of all His saints. Praise the Lord! (Hallelujah!)

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 9:1-17; Joshua 10-12

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 26:69-75; Leviticus 1

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

SUNDAY 2ND APRIL

THEME: STAY POSITIVE

THEME SCRIPTURE: 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 4:8 ).

One of the ways to live happily every day is to always stay positive with the Word, and think good thoughts about other people. Never allow anyone bring some negativities into your life to defile the purity of your heart and the joy of seeing others with the eyes with which God sees them. Stay with the good thoughts about everyone.

God’s love believes only the best about others every time. Some people get in awkward situations for believing all the wrong and negative things they heard about others, and end up losing good relationships. For example, you probably know a lot of things about certain people in your congregation, family or neighbourhood. But never dwell on the negatives.

The Bible shows us clearly what we should give our minds to; how to think and what to think about. That’s what we read in our opening verse. Don’t dwell on allegations against people. When you set your thinking on thoughts that are contrary to those listed in the opening verse, you become the reflection of such thoughts.

But imagine if your life is the reflection of things that are true, honest, just, pure, lovely, and of good report. How beautiful your life would be! Your character is the reflection of your thoughts. The more positive your thoughts are, the more peaceful and excellent your life would be.

PRAYER:
Dear Father, as I meditate on your Word, my mind is inundated with thoughts of glory, excellence, success, victory and prosperity. I make my way prosperous and walk in absolute victory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY
1 Corinthians 13:7 AMPC
7 Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything [without weakening].

Philippians 4:8 TPT
Keep your thoughts continually fixed on all that is authentic and real, honorable and admirable, beautiful and respectful, pure and holy, merciful and kind. And fasten your thoughts on every glorious work of God, praising him always.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 9:18-36 & Joshua 13-15

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 27:1-10 & Leviticus 2

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

MONDAY 3RD APRIL 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: USE YOUR FAITH

THEME SCRIPTURE: For whatever is born of God is victorious over the world; and this is the victory that conquers the world, even our faith (1 John 5:4 AMPC).

In Romans 12:3, the Bible says, “…God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.” We all have faith, and according to our theme verse, the faith that was administered to us from God's eternal Word conquers the world! It’s the faith of the Kingdom. Our hearts are receptive to God’s Word and we can always trust His Word to produce faith in our hearts, and with our faith, we have victory over the world, its system, and its fears. Hallelujah!

We’re not victims in this life. In Mark 9:23, Jesus didn’t say, “Some things (or most) things are possible”; neither did He say, "All things are possible to God." Rather, He declared, “...If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.” That means anything is possible to anyone who believes; that includes you. So, how are you going to make all things possible unto you? It’s with your faith! That’s your instrument. You can use your faith for anything.

When you face challenges, put your faith to work. If you ever think that your faith isn’t strong enough, all you have to do is listen to, or study the Word of God. The Word of God will produce faith; that’s the miracle power of God’s Word: it stirs faith. That’s the source of faith in the heart of any man.

That’s why this devotional, Rhapsody of Realities, is very important, because the more you study it, the more faith comes to you. His glory is in His Word; His power is in His Word; His character is in His Word. Therefore, it’s impossible for the Word not to produce faith in you and put you over all adversities. Don’t cry or complain when you face challenges; use your faith and win!

CONFESSION
My faith conquers the world! Irrespective of the circumstances around me and the happenings in the world today, I have the faith to rule my world. I open my mind to the Word, the source of faith, and with that faith, I have dominion over circumstances and victory over the world and its systems and fears. Nothing is impossible unto me! Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:
Ephesians 6:16 Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.

1 John 5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, [even] our faith.

Romans 10:17 So then faith [cometh] by hearing, and hearing by the word of God.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 9:37-62 & Joshua 16-19

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 27:11-25 & Leviticus 3

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

TUESDAY 04 APRIL

THEME: LIVING IN THE SPIRIT

THEME SCRIPTURE: If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit (Galatians 5:25).

As Christians, we don’t go in and out of the Spirit; we live in the Spirit. Our theme verse makes it clear: it says, “Because we live in the Spirit, we should walk in the Spirit.” There’re two common expressions that you find in the Bible for being in the Spirit. One is to be in a vision or trance where your physical senses are more or less suspended. However, that’s a temporal experience.

The other and more important expression of being in the Spirit is being born into the Spirit, where you become aware and alive to the spirit-realm through the Word and the Holy Ghost. You live in that consciousness even though you’re in this world and your physical senses are conscious of your natural environment.

In the latter, you’re living with the mindset of the heavenly being that you are. You see the same things with other people, but you have a different interpretation and a different understanding. You’re Spirit-ruled; you see things the Kingdom way; the Word of God dictates your actions and responses to life and everything around you. You dominate your environment with the atmosphere of the Spirit. Hallelujah!

PRAYER:
Thank you, precious Holy Spirit, for being my peculiar atmosphere and advantage in life. You’ve made my life so different and beautiful. I rule and dominate my world with the atmosphere of joy, peace, success and victory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY
Acts 1:8
8 But you shall receive power (ability, efficiency, and might) when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be My witnesses in Jerusalem and all Judea and Samaria and to the ends (the very bounds) of the earth.

Romans 8:9
9 But you are not living the life of the flesh, you are living the life of the Spirit, if the [Holy] Spirit of God [really] dwells within you [directs and controls you]. But if anyone does not possess the [Holy] Spirit of Christ, he is none of His [he does not belong to Christ, is not truly a child of God].

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 10:1-24 & Joshua 20-22

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Matthew 27:26-37 & Leviticus 4

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

WEDNESDAY 5TH APRIL

THEME: WHEN THE SPIRIT TAKES OVER

THEME SCRIPTURE: Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered (Romans 8:26)

If as a Christian, you’ve come to a point in your life where it seems everything is now a drag, you don’t seem to be making the kind of progress you desire or that’s expected, there’s a way out! Maybe you’ve even tried everything you know to do, but there’s still no commensurate progress, don’t be frustrated. You can have a complete turnaround today.

First, understand that life is spiritual and except you operate from the realm of the Spirit, you can’t achieve meaningful success. Our opening verse lets us know that we can take charge of our lives and situations from the realm of the Spirit by praying in the Spirit.

When we pray in tongues, the Spirit Himself gives us utterance in spiritual vocabulary. Beyond this utterance in tongues, we have deep sighs or groanings as in the opening verse: “Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered” (Romans 8:26).

This is a better and higher way to pray. When you’re faced with serious crises in your life, it may get to the point where you don’t know or have words with which to express yourself or deal with the situation. At that point, you might want to just get on the floor before the Lord, in absolute dependence on the Holy Spirit, until He takes over for you. Hallelujah!

With these groanings, the Holy Spirit makes intercession for you and God’s people. You can learn and train yourself in this by giving more time and attention to prayer; yielding yourself to God. These are Kingdom secrets given to us from the Word, for us to live victoriously in life. Glory to God!

CONFESSION
The circumstances don’t matter. I win by the power of the Holy Spirit. As I speak in tongues even now, the Holy Spirit takes over my vocal cords and gets me in sync with the will of the Father; His visions, promptings, ideas and thoughts are clear to me as He leads me in victory and glory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
John 14:16-17 (AMPC) And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Comforter (Counselor, Helper, Intercessor, Advocate, Strengthener, and Standby), that He may remain with you forever— 17 The Spirit of Truth, Whom the world cannot receive (welcome, take to its heart), because it does not see Him or know and recognize Him. But you know and recognize Him, for He lives with you [constantly] and will be in you.

Zechariah 4:6 (KJV) Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the Lord unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the Lord of hosts.

Romans 8:26 (AMPC) So too the [Holy] Spirit comes to our aid and bears us up in our weakness; for we do not know what prayer to offer nor how to offer it worthily as we ought, but the Spirit Himself goes to meet our supplication and pleads in our behalf with unspeakable yearnings and groanings too deep for utterance.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Luke 10:25-42 & Joshua 23-24

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Matthew 27:38-44 & Leviticus 5

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

THURSDAY 6TH APRIL

THEME: MENDING YOUR WORLD

THEME SCRIPTURE: Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God.( Hebrews 11:3)

The Greek word, “aion” is what is translated as “worlds” in the verse above. It refers to course of life; an era, or the structure and administration of things as they are in the world. Every now and then, the devil tries to turn the course of this world in his direction; he likes to impose his own system on the world and force us to live in his system. But he’s subject to us, so we can’t allow him to have his way.

For example, when a city or a nation gets new leaders, Satan often attempts to make such leaders follow his agenda. Those leaders may never know when they’re being influenced and caused to lie and deceive their people and nation.
Even when the people find out that they’re being deceived, they can’t reverse the damage; they can’t free themselves. But the Bible says, “For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God….

Because the creature itself also shall be delivered from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the children of God. For we know that the whole creation groaneth and travaileth in pain together until now” (Romans 8:19-22). We’re the ones to deliver the world—all of creation— from the bondage of corruption into the glorious liberty of the sons of God. How? It’s with the Word of God (the “rhema” of God) on our lips. With the Word of God, you can repair, construct and reconstruct the course of your life and your world. That’s what the men and women of faith did in Bible days. Through faith, they framed or repaired their world with the Word of God. It’s what God expects of us today: we must frame our era with the Word of God through faith.

PRAYER
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for giving me dominion over all things. I’ve received the dynamic ability to cause changes, repair, frame, perfect, mend, and restore everything in my world in line with your perfect will. The course of my life stays consistent with your plans and purposes, and I live victoriously over the adversary and the adversities of life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY
Joshua 1:8 AMPC;
Hebrews 11:1-3 AMPC

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:

Luke 11:1-13 & Judges 1-2

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Matthew 27:45-54 & Leviticus 6

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

FRIDAY 7TH APRIL 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: THE FAITH OF JESUS CHRIST

THEME SCRIPTURE: I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me (Galatians 2:20).

In our theme verse, Paul alludes to the faith of the Son of God—the faith of Jesus Christ! Did you know that He had faith in you? The Bible tells us that for the joy, the glory, that was set before Him, He endured the Cross, despising the shame (Hebrews 12:2). You’re that joy and glory He saw for which He gave His life, not minding a criminal’s death. He saw what you'd become by virtue of His vicarious death.

The Bible says God’s dream was to indwell man, for man to be His living tabernacle. In Proverbs 8:31, the Bible says the Spirit rejoiced in the habitable part of His earth; but His delights were with the sons of men. Jesus gave His life to realize God’s dream: His dream of us becoming the glory of God; His dream of us becoming the righteousness of God; His dream of us becoming associates of the God-kind. He gave His life so God’s plan for us to have and enjoy life to the full would be realized.

Now we live in righteousness, prosperity, health, dominion, victory and excellence forever, because of the faith of Jesus Christ! He had faith in what He did. He had faith in you and trusted you with His life. He knew if you’d believe His Gospel, you’d become like Him, and now you’re like Him: “...As He is, so are we in this world” (1 John 4:17).

Believe in what He did, who He is, and what He’s made you. Believe in yourself. Live by His faith. Decide that you’re going to be everything He died and came back to life for you to become, achieve, and enjoy. Make up your mind your life will be for His glory and for His praise as you fulfil your destiny in Him.

CONFESSION
I'm what God says I am. I'm an heir of God and a joint-heir with Christ; I’m living God’s dream and enjoying the fullness of life. I walk in prosperity, health, strength and victory now and evermore, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
2 Corinthians 5:15 And [that] he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.

Colossians 3:3 For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 11:14-36 & Judges 3-4

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Matthew 27:55-66 & Leviticus 7