RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SATURDAY 16TH SEPTEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: TRUST IN THE LORD

THEME SCRIPTURE: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths (Proverbs 3:5-6).

Society is built on trust; we have to trust its systems and structures; we have to trust the seeming goodness of the human person, but we cannot do it blindly.

The courts, for instance, are sometimes corrupt, yet we still have to rely on them for their judicial authority to hear and resolve disputes in civil, criminal or other cases. It’s the same with the police or civil service; we still have to somehow trust them in spite of these inadequacies.

How about the educational system? It’s an important institution where you entrust your children’s education and well-being. You take your little kids to school, leave them there even though you have heard time and time again that children were been abused by officials and so on; still, you have to trust.

That’s why there are those who take advantage of this trust that has been bequeathed to them; they manipulate the system and continually erode the trust in our society. However, the Bible warns us not to put our trust in earthly leaders; instead, we’re encouraged to trust in the Lord.

Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.” If the society we live in has become so degenerate, squalid and polluted, that leaves you no choice than to trust only in the Lord, Christ.

However, trust, just like faith, must be directed to the Word of God. It must be based on God’s Word. How important it is to put the Word into you especially in these days in which we live. Irrespective of the incongruities, depravities, decadences, and immoralities in today’s society, put your trust in the Lord and His unfailing Word.

CONFESSION
My faith is based on the Word, and it’s alive, active, and prevailing. Circumstances align with my faith-filled confessions, and I rule, reign and dominate my world by my faith. I’ve taken a hold of the eternal realities of the Kingdom, walking in the full blessings of the Gospel of Christ! My life is for the glory of God, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Psalm 18:30 [As for] God, his way [is] perfect: the word of the LORD is tried: he [is] a buckler to all those that trust in him.

Psalm 91:2 I will say of the LORD, [He is] my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust.

Psalm 118:9 [It is] better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in princes.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Galatians 2:1-21 & Songs of Solomon 1-2

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 23:1-12 & 2 Samuel 5-6

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SUNDAY 17TH SEPTEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: GOD’S AWESOME GIFT TO ALL

THEME SCRIPTURE: And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh... (Acts 2:17).

Did you know that the Holy Spirit is God’s glorious, gracious, awesome gift and blessing not just to us Christians but to the whole world? The blessing of the Spirit was to be poured upon all fresh. No one in the world could believe in Jesus Christ without the conviction of the Holy Spirit. It’s the Holy Spirit who opens the hearts of men to the Gospel that we preach, as He did with Lydia in Acts 16:14.

1 Corinthians 2:12 says, “Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.” Through Him, we know the blessings that are freely given to us by God and enjoy them. He sees to it that we walk in the reality of our divine heritage and heavenly blessings.

It also takes the Holy Spirit to give you the understanding of God’s Word: “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth...” (John 16:13). He unveils the mysteries and secrets of the Kingdom to you and sees to it that you’re not deceived, but are walking in truth.

It takes the Holy Spirit for you to know that Jesus Christ is the Son of God. There’s no way human reasoning can figure out the divinity of Jesus. It takes the Holy Spirit to help you understand and accept the virgin birth of Jesus Christ, His sacrificial death, His triumphant resurrection, and His glorious ascension.

Only the Holy Spirit can convince you that the blood of Jesus Christ was adequate for our salvation. Without the Holy Spirit, there’s no way we could have ever known and be able to walk in the reality of that truth. There’s no human parameters for deciphering such realities. So when you accept these truths about Christ and the Gospel, understand that the Holy Spirit has ministered to you. Hallelujah!

Become more conscious of the impact, blessing and glory of having the Holy Spirit live in you. He’s one of the extraordinary cardinal gifts and blessings of God to us. Recognize and encourage His ministry in your life and you’ll walk in dominion and victory always.

PRAYER
Dear Father, I thank you for the awesome gift of the Holy Spirit in my life, and I willingly follow His guidance to fulfil my destiny in Christ. Now, more than ever, I acknowledge His ministry and constant companionship and fellowship as He leads me in a deeper understanding and experience of the realities of the Kingdom of God, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
John 16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, [that] shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.

Acts 2:38
Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

Acts 10:45
And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Galatians 3:1-14 & Songs of Solomon 3-5

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 23:13-25 & 2 Samuel 7-8

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

MONDAY 18TH SEPTEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: THE HOLY SPIRIT DOES THE WORK

THEME SCRIPTURE: Believest thou not that I am in the Father, and the Father in me? the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works (John 14:10).

The Lord Jesus, in the verse above, referred to the Holy Spirit as the Father that dwells in Him. He’s the “doer” of the works. Yes, we don’t see the Holy Spirit, and we can’t touch or relate with Him through our senses, but His presence, impact and ministry in, through and for us is so real and profound.

The Holy Spirit is God; the Holy Spirit is the voice of God. The Holy Spirit is the extension of God. Sometimes, even when He ministers to us, we don’t realize He’s the one. For example, in Matthew 16:13-17 when Jesus asked His disciples, “Whom do men say that I am?” In answering, they weren’t sure; but Peter said, “You’re the Christ, the son of the living God.”

The Lord’s response to Peter was, “Simon, flesh and blood didn’t reveal this to you, but my Father who is in heaven.” It takes a revelation to know who Jesus is, and that revelation is granted by God. Peter didn’t know it was a knowledge from God that was granted him.

The Gospel we’re commissioned to take to the nations of the world is something that can’t be humanly devised, accepted, and understood. There’s no way for an ordinary man to accept it. The Bible says, “For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God” (1 Corinthians 1:18).

We need help from the ministry of the Holy Spirit for others to accept the Gospel just as we had to be helped to accept it. Psalm 127:1 says, “Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it....” We all must be conscious of this as soul winners.

If you’re trying to build the Church of God without the Holy Spirit, it’s not going to work. He’s the Lord of the harvest. He does the work. Read the inspiring and life-transforming words of the Lord Jesus in John 16:7-8 AMPC: “However, I am telling you nothing but the truth when I say it is profitable (good, expedient, advantageous) for you that I go away. Because if I do not go away, the Comforter (Counselor, HELPER, Advocate, Intercessor, Strengthener, Standby) will not come to you...And when He comes, He will convict and convince the world and bring demonstration to it about sin and about righteousness (uprightness of heart and right standing with God) and about judgment.” Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Dear Holy Spirit, I thank you, for you’re the one who works effectually in me, to will and to do the Father’s pleasure. I’m sensitive to your leadership and guidance. I can do all things through your mighty power at work in me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Philippians 4:13 AMPC I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ's sufficiency].

Philippians 2:13
For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of [his] good pleasure.

John 14:10 AMPC
Do you not believe that I am in the Father, and that the Father is in Me? What I am telling you I do not say on My own authority and of My own accord; but the Father Who lives continually in Me does the (His) works (His own miracles, deeds of power).

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Galatians 3:15-25 & Songs of Solomon 6-8

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 23:26-33 & 2 Samuel 9-10

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

TUESDAY 19TH SEPTEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: AN EXCELLENT CHARACTER

THEME SCRIPTURE: Moral character makes for smooth traveling; an evil life is a hard life. Good character is the best insurance; crooks get trapped in their sinful lust (Proverbs 11:5-6 MSG).

In Genesis 49, the Bible gives us insight into Jacob’s final words to his sons. In addressing his firstborn, Reuben, Jacob acknowledged the immense potential he possessed. He described him as his firstborn, his might, the beginning of his manly strength and vigour, and emphasized that his birthright gave him the pre-eminence in dignity and power.

However, Jacob highlighted Reuben’s character flaw and how it ruined his future: “Unstable as water, thou shalt not excel; because thou wentest up to thy father’s bed; then defiledst thou it: he went up to my couch” (Genesis 49:4).

Despite the promises and blessings associated with being the firstborn, and the encomiums of being Jacob’s strength, the strongest of all his sons, Reuben would not attain the greatness he could have achieved.

Your character as a person is very important. It doesn’t matter the prophecies that may have been spoken over your life and who gave them; your character can ruin prophecy, and ultimately, your life, just as Reuben’s character ruined his life.

God’s desire is for the prophecies spoken over your life to come to pass. He wants His good word concerning you to be fulfilled just as He has said. Your role is to recognize His lordship and behave correctly, walking in His righteousness.

How important it is to walk faithfully in alignment with God’s will, in His light, and have an excellent character. Now you can better understand the import of the Spirit’s prayer through Paul in Ephesians 3:16 for you to be strengthened with excellence by the Holy Spirit in your inner man. Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Dear Father, I’m aligned with your will and walk in your light faithfully. I recognize the importance of character and living uprightly, according to your Word. Thank you for the wisdom to learn from the examples in Scripture and to make choices that honour you, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Proverbs 11:5-6
The righteousness of the perfect shall direct his way: but the wicked shall fall by his own wickedness. The righteousness of the upright shall deliver them: but transgressors shall be taken in [their own] naughtiness.

Proverbs 20:11
Even a child is known by his doings, whether his work [be] pure, and whether [it be] right.

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.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Galatians 3:26-4:1-20 & Isaiah 1-2

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 23:34-43 & 2 Samuel 11-12

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

WEDNESDAY 20TH SEPTEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: IT’S A LIFE OF JOY

THEME SCRIPTURE: Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory (1 Peter 1:8 ).

Our spirit-filled life is one of indescribable joy, irrespective of circumstances. The Word declares, “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit” (Romans 14:17).

It’s one of the reasons God tells us to be constantly filled with the Spirit: “And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit” (Ephesians 5:18). Imagine if every member of the church is filled with the Spirit, and not with doubt and fear. Then you’d understand what true Christianity is; it’s a life of joy.

Imagine everyone coming into the church meetings singing and praising God with joy and carrying that same atmosphere everywhere. That’s how it ought to be. When you’re filled with the Spirit, your joy overflows.

The Bible says the joy of the Lord is your strength (Nehemiah 8:10). Your spirit will continually be energized for victory and success when you’re full of joy. Joy is an elixir. Moreover, the Bible says in Isaiah 12:3, “Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation.”

So, in spite of the things happening in the world today, be full of joy every day, and express it in the liberty of the spirit.

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for the blessing of being continually filled with the Spirit for an all-day, all-time life of victory and dominion! I’m forever joyful, jubilant, triumphant and delighted in the Spirit for a life of peace and joy in the Holy Ghost! To you be all glory and dominion forever, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Psalm 5:11 But let all those that put their trust in thee rejoice: let them ever shout for joy, because thou defendest them: let them also that love thy name be joyful in thee.

Philippians 4:4 Rejoice in the Lord alway: [and] again I say, Rejoice.

1 Thessalonians 5:16 Rejoice evermore.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Galatians 4:21-5:1-15 & Isaiah 3-5

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 23:44-56 & 2 Samuel 13-14

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

THURSDAY 21ST SEPTEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: UNDERSTAND THE ESSENCE OF PRAYER

THEME SCRIPTURE: And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints (Ephesians 6:18 NIV).

For some people, prayer is a mere ritual or religious ceremony. For example, the Pharisees, Sadducees, and Scribes in Bible days were given to the religiosity of prayer but not to its true essence and significance. But it wasn’t so with the Patriarchs of faith like Abraham, Isaac and Jacob; they understood the importance and power of prayer as effective communication with God.

The Lord Jesus also demonstrated the power of prayer with amazing results. His disciples noticed this and asked Him to teach them how to pray effectively; they desired to pray in a way that God would hear and answer them. They wanted a genuine connection with God, where their prayers would have a meaningful impact, and that became their experience.

As you study the Book of Acts, and particularly the Epistles, you’d observe valuable insights and practical guidance on how to pray effectively. The apostles followed in the footsteps of Jesus and they too experienced remarkable results and passed this valuable knowledge to the Church.

So, we understand that prayer is God’s idea. He wants us to pray because He wants to answer. Prayer gives Him the right to intervene in the affairs of men and establish His will in the earth.

Therefore, we pray with the understanding that our prayers make tremendous power available, dynamic in its working (James 5:16).
We have books on prayer that’ll help your understanding of the subject; order or download these books from the Rhapsody app store.

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for the privilege of fellowship with you in prayer, through the Holy Spirit. I’m victorious in all circumstances, walking in the blessings of the Lord because I live in the authority of the Word and in the Name of Jesus! Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
James 5:16-18 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]. Elijah was a human being with a nature such as we have [with feelings, affections, and a constitution like ours]; and he prayed earnestly for it not to rain, and no rain fell on the earth for three years and six months. And [then] he prayed again and the heavens supplied rain and the land produced its crops [as usual].

Luke 18:1;
Also [Jesus] told them a parable to the effect that they ought always to pray and not to a]turn coward (faint, lose heart, and give up).

Philippians 4:6-7
Do not fret or have any anxiety about anything, but in every circumstance and in everything, by prayer and petition (a]definite requests), with thanksgiving, continue to make your wants known to God. And God’s peace [shall be yours, that b]tranquil state of a soul assured of its salvation through Christ, and so fearing nothing from God and being content with its earthly lot of whatever sort that is, that peace] which transcends all understanding shall c]garrison and mount guard over your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Galatians 5:16-26 & Isaiah 6-8

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Luke 24:1-12 & 2 Samuel 15-16

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

FRIDAY 22ND SEPTEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: YOUR WORDS AND YOU

THEME SCRIPTURE: For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned (Matthew 12:37).

As a Christian, you ought to always examine your life, especially with respect to your words, because your words reveal your character. If a man's words are harsh, bitter and biting, then that's who he is inside. But if your words are gracious and loving, that's the character of your personality. Your words reveal you.

James 3:2 says, "For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body." Jesus said in Matthew 12:35, A" good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things."

There's love, beauty, goodness and excellence in your spirit. So when you speak, it should be out of that abundance. The presence of the Holy Spirit in your life means you're enabled to let out rivers of blessings from within you, coming forth in words. Your speech is the true measure of your maturity as a Christian.

Read James 3:2 again, this time, from the AMPC: ". And if anyone does not offend in speech [never says the wrong things), he is a fully developed character and a perfect man..." Bring life, health, healing, hope, strength and courage to others through your wholesome words.

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for your Word and the Holy Spirit that renews my mind to speak blessings and faith-filled words. I speak life and wisdom today; I live in divine health, supernatural abundance, and I walk in righteousness, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
James 3:2-6;
For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body. Behold, we put bits in the horses' mouths, that they may obey us; and we turn about their whole body. Behold also the ships, which though they be so great, and are driven of fierce winds, yet are they turned about with a very small helm, whithersoever the governor listeth. Even so the tongue is a little member, and boasteth great things. Behold, how great a matter a little fire kindleth! And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.

Proverbs 15:4;
A wholesome tongue is a tree of life: but perverseness therein is a breach in the spirit.

Mark 11:23
For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.

1YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 6:1-18 &Isaiah 9-10

2YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 24:13-27 &2Samuel 17-18

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SATURDAY 23RD SEPTEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: HIS ULTIMATE PURPOSE

THEME SCRIPTURE: Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints (Colossians 1:26).

The purpose of Jesus’ coming to this world was not just to die for our sins. His ultimate purpose was to make us sons of God, so we could have eternal life and be like Him in this world, and in fellowship with God.

This is what Satan knows and hates with a passion! The Apostle John wrote, “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He who has the Son has life; he who does not have the Son of God does not have life. I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:11-13 NIV).

Now that you’re born again, you have the life and nature of God in you. This is the essence of Christianity according to the Bible; it is Christ alive in you! Colossians 1:26-27 says, “Even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

O, how He wants the whole world to know that they don’t have to live the ordinary human life that’s depraved and mortal! Remember that Jesus died for everyone in the world, and thus the God-life is available to all. Today, anyone who believes in Jesus Christ and confesses His lordship, receives this God-life and is brought into oneness with God. This was Christ’s ultimate purpose.

PRAYER
Dear Father, I’m grateful for the revelation of eternal life that I have received. Therefore, I live in the realm of incorruptibility, immortality, everlasting joy, peace and glory, reigning in life by Christ Jesus. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
John 3:16
For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

Galatians 2:20
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.

John 10:10 AMPC
The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows).

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Ephesians 1:1-14 & Isaiah 11-12

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 24:28-39 & 2 Samuel 19-20

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

SUNDAY 24TH SEPTEMBER

THEME: CHRIST AND HIS CHURCH

THEME SCRIPTURE: And hath put all things under his feet, and gave him to be the head over all things to the church, Which is his body, the fullness of him that filleth all in all (Ephesians 1:22-23).

Christ and the Church are one. He is the head and we, are Church, are His body. We’re inextricably one with Him. In Acts 9:3-5, for example, we have a clear reference of the union of Christ and the Church in the dialogue between the Lord and Saul
of Tarsus, who later became Paul.

That passage reads, “And as he (Saul) journeyed, he came near Damascus: and suddenly there shined round about him a light
from heaven: And he fell to the earth, and hearda voice saying unto him, Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me? And he said, Who art thou, Lord? And the Lord said, I am Jesus whom thou persecutest: it is hard for thee to kick against the pricks” (Acts 9:3-5).

Prior to his conversion, Saul wreaked havoc in the early Church and persecuted Christians everywhere, until he had an encounter with the Lord, who intercepted him and asked, “…Saul, Saul, why persecutest thou me” (Acts 9:4). The Lord intimately identifies Himself with the Church. An offence or evil committed against the Church is committed against Jesus. The Lord takes ti personal because we’re of the same stock.

He’s the Vine, and we-the Church-are the branches. He’s the head of the Church: “And he is the head of the body, the church…” (Colossians 1:18). The head and the body have the same name, authority and identity; together we’re called Christ!

We’ve been baptized into the body of Christ. 1 Corinthians 12:27 says, Now ye are the body of Christ, and members in particular.” 1 Corinthians 12:13 says, “For by one Spirit are we all baptized into one body… and have been all made to drink into one Spirit.” The Church, which is the body, doesn’t answer a name that’s different from that of the head.

This is to help you see who you are, where you are, and what you have; you’re one with Christ. When He was raised from the dead, you were raised up together with Him. Now that He’s seated on the throne, you’re seated together with Him in the place of dominion, glory and authority. Blessed be God!

CONFESSION:
Blessed Father, how awesome you are! Thank you for my inextricable oneness with Christ; thank you for bringing me into such sublime union and identity with the Monarch of the Universe. Now I’m seated with Christ in the place of dominion, glory, and authority, where I reign and rule over circumstances and situations by thepower of the Holy Ghost! Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Ephesians 5:29-30 – For no man ever hated his own flesh, but nourishes and carefully protects and cherishes it, as Christ does the church,

1Corinthians 10:16-17 – The cup of blessing [of wine at the Lord’s Supper] upon which we ask [God’s] blessing, does it not mean [that in drinking it] we participate in and share a fellowship (a communion) in the blood of Christ (the Messiah)? The bread which we break, does it not mean [that in eating it] we participate in and share a fellowship (a communion) in the body of Christ? 17 For we [no matter how] numerous we are, are one body, because we all partake of the one Bread [the One Whom the communion bread represents].

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Ephesians 1:15-2:1-10 & Isaiah 13-14

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Luke 24:40-53 &2 Samuel 21-22

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

MONDAY 25TH SEPTEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: MAKING DISCIPLES

THEME SCRIPTURE: Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen (Matthew 28:19-20).

The opening text from the New International Version says, “Therefore go and make disciples of all nations....” The Lord Jesus commanded us to make disciples of all nations. A disciple is someone who follows their leader.

So, if someone refuses to “follow” you, then you’re yet to truly make that one a disciple. The Master’s vision is for them to become our disciples, accompanying us and emulating our actions in doing the things the Lord asked us to do.

In 1 Corinthians 11:1, the Apostle Paul said, “Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ.” Notice that he didn’t say, “I’ve led you to Christ, so follow Him.” No! He explicitly stated, “Follow me as I follow Christ.” Therefore, when we lead souls to Christ, we must teach them to do what we do and help them cultivate the habit of going to church.

Let them know that church gatherings are mandatory for us as Christians (Luke 4:16). Don’t be satisfied if they only attend special church programs and neglect the actual church services. They must become disciples, and for that to happen, we must lead by example. Remember, the local church is a place of growth, teaching, training and protection. Everyone needs a family; so bring them into the church family.

PRAYER
Dear Father, I pray for many around the world whose zeal for the things of the Spirit may have dissipated, that their passion be rekindled, and they take their personal times of fellowship with the Spirit and study of the Word seriously; that there be unity, stability and growth as we, the Church, attain the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Acts 11:22-26 Then tidings of these things came unto the ears of the church which was in Jerusalem: and they sent forth Barnabas, that he should go as far as Antioch. Who, when he came, and had seen the grace of God, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord. For he was a good man, and full of the Holy Ghost and of faith: and much people was added unto the Lord. Then departed Barnabas to Tarsus, for to seek Saul:And when he had found him, he brought him unto Antioch. And it came to pass, that a whole year they assembled themselves with the church, and taught much people. And the disciples were called Christians first in Antioch.

Acts 6:7
And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples multiplied in Jerusalem greatly; and a great company of the priests were obedient to the faith.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Ephesians 2:11-22 & Isaiah 15-16

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 1:1-13 & 2 Samuel 23-24

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

TUESDAY 26TH SEPTEMBER

THEME: LABOURING FERVENTLY IN PRAYER

THEME SCRIPTURE: Epaphras, who is one of you, a bondservant of Christ, greets you, always laboring fervently for you in prayers, that you may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God (Colossians 4:12 NKJV).

The apostle Paul cites Epaphras as one “Always labouring fervently in prayers.” Those two words “labouring fervently” are rendered that way to provide a good understanding of what he actually did and how. Both words are from the same Greek word ‘agonizomai’—fight!

You can read that verse thus, “Epaphras, who is one of you, a servant of Christ, greets you, always fighting for you in prayers.” A question to ask would be, “If Epaphras was fighting for them in prayers, who was he fighting against?” It certainly wasn’t God, as it was God who inspired him to pray in the first place; it’s God who hears and answers prayers. So, certainly, God is not the enemy.

Now, the purpose of his prayer gives us an idea of the enemy. His prayer was for the Christians in Colossae to stand perfect and complete in all the will of God. This must be because there’s an enemy, Satan, out there trying to stop them from becoming perfect and complete in the will of God. This he tries to do by hindering or attempting to hinder their Christian growth.

Paul describes these demoniacal forces in Ephesians 6:12 when he said, “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.” These evil forces are the ones darkening the minds of men, swaying them from the path of God’s truth.

It’s the reason we must fight for them in prayers as Epaphras did. I encourage you to write down names of people who you might have noticed or heard are not walking in the light of God’s Word or have strayed from the faith, and fight for them in prayer. Pray fervently for them every day, and you’d see remarkable results. Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Dear Father, I break the influence of Satan over my family members, friends and others around the world who aren’t yet born again. I pray that their minds and hearts are opened to the Lord, as the light of the glorious Gospel shines with great intensity into their hearts to embrace the grace of God for their salvation, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Colossians 4:12 – Epaphras, who is [one] of you, a servant of Christ, saluteth you, always labouring fervently for you in prayers, that ye may stand perfect and complete in all the will of God.

1 Timothy 2:1-4 – I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, [and] giving of thanks, be made for all men; 2 For kings, and [for] all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty. 3 For this [is] good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour; 4 Who will have all men to be saved, and to come unto the knowledge of the truth.

Galatians 4:19 – My little children, of whom I travail in birth again until Christ be formed in you

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Ephesians 3:1-21 & Isaiah 19-22

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
John 1:14-23 & 1 Kings 1

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

WEDNESDAY 27TH SEPTEMBER

THEME: INCONTROVERTIBLE BENEFITS OF FELLOWSHIP

THEME SCRIPTURE: The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen (2 Corinthians 13:14).

The incontrovertible benefits and blessings of fellowship with the Holy Spirit can’t be overemphasized. The Holy Spirit wants to be involved with every part of your life, and you must let Him. He wants your progress, advancement, prosperity, and success to be evident for all to see.

Sometimes, a Christian might experience a period of remarkable growth and progress where things are moving swiftly and smoothly. However, there may be occasions when everything suddenly seems to stall. Despite attempting various strategies and ideas, nothing appears to change.

Such scenarios often arise when one starts neglecting the ministry of the Holy Spirit in their personal lives. When the speed or rate of growth reduces or completely stalls, either in numerical growth, finances, or both, and it becomes evident that the previous approaches that worked for others and yourself are no longer yielding the same results, what should you do?

The best thing to do if you want to come out of that situation and elevate your work to a higher level is to fast and pray with the understanding that you are initiating a change and transition within yourself.

The focus of the fast, therefore, should not be about changing the situation, as that is not the root problem. Rather, the key lies in strengthening your personal fellowship with the Holy Spirit.

Fasting is a way of turning your spirit and mind away from the carnal things of this world in order to focus them on the Spirit; you set your heart and your mind on the Word in study, meditation and prayer.

Remember, the objective of the prayer and fasting is to nurture and develop an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit. By prioritizing this aspect of your life, you can expect to experience the desired changes and growth in other areas as well.

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for the precious gift of the Holy Spirit—my Helper, Counsellor, Teacher, Advocate, Comforter, Strengthener and Standby—whom you sent to lead and guide me through life, in fulfilling my destiny in Christ. Through my fellowship with the Holy Spirit, I walk in victory today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
John 14:15-18 AMPC
If you [really] love Me, you will keep (obey) My commands. 16 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. 18 I will not leave you as orphans [comfortless, desolate, bereaved, forlorn, helpless]; I will come [back] to you.

John 16:13-14
Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, [that] shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. 14 He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew [it] unto you.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Ephesians 4:1-16 & Isaiah 23-24

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
John 1:24-34 & 1 Kings 2

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

THURSDAY 28TH SEPTEMBER

THEME: PRAY FOR A RECEPTIVE HEART

THEME SCRIPTURE: Wherefore lay apart all filthiness and superfluity of naughtiness, and receive with meekness the engrafted word, which is able to save your souls (James 1:21).

When you share God’s Word with others, it may not work unless the Holy Spirit ministers to their hearts. You may preach and teach, but if the Spirit of God isn’t ministring to their hearts, it’s not going to be effective; that’s the reason why prayer is crucial.

When you pray for others in this context, it’s not about you, but your hearers, that the Lord give them a receptive heart, and that the darkness that blinds their hearts be dispelled and the power of evil holding them in bondage is broken.

Remember the Word of Paul the Apostle: “And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man’s wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power: That your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God” (1 Corinthians 2:4-5). As a result, I learnt to pray, saying, “In the name of the Lord Jesus, you evil spirit of darkness that has blinded and put a mist in the heart of so-and-so to stop him from seeing and understanding the Word, I break your influence on his heart and mind.

When i started doing this, I got amazing results; the Holy Spirit opened their heart to receive the truths and teachings of the Word of God without distractions. If there was any hardness or resistance prior to meeting them, it would melt away, and in them, a deep hunger and thirst for the spiritual would awakened. Praise God!

Always pray earnestly for those to whom and with whom you share the Word of God. When you do, the transformative power of the Word that brings conviction, understanding, and a desire for a closer relationship with the Lord will be kindled within their hearts. Amen.

PRAYER
Dear Father, I pray that the minds of those to whom I preach the Gospel be receptive to your Word as your wisdom leaps out of the message and inundates their hearts; they’ll walk the path of wisdom, knowledge and understanding, being enlightened, refreshed, informed and strengthened to fulfill their purpose in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Ephesians 3:14-19 (KJV)
14 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; 17 That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith; that ye, being rooted and grounded in love, 18 May be able to comprehend with all saints what is the breadth, and length, and depth, and height; 19 And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God.

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].

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Ephesians 4:17-5:1-2 & Isaiah 25-26

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
John 1:35-42 & 1 Kings 3

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

FRIDAY 29TH SEPTEMBER

THEME: PRAYING IN TONGUES IS KEY

THEME SCRIPTURE: 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 (Jude 1:20 AMPC).

If you desire to improve yourself and operate at a new level of spiritual maturity and efficacy, the Scripture tells you what to do: pray in tongues often. This will work for any area in which you desire to make tremendous progress and take giant strides, be it in your health, academics, job, business, or finances.

Even in contending for the souls of men, or interceding for those who have issues understanding the Word, or those who’re dull in the things of the Spirit, praying in tongues is key! When you pray in tongues, the Holy Spirit gives you insights and specific guidance that you need to deal with the situation. You’d be able to discern whether you have said enough or if there is more to be said or done.

Also, in praying in tongues, learn to wait on the Lord, because what you need above all is direction—direction during or after the prayer. Sometimes, you may pray for a long time and experience spiritual changes, but no tangible changes manifest in the physical realm. Why? There may be specific actions or steps to be taken that you haven’t accessed or discerned.

The Bible says, “The secret of the LORD is with them that fear him; and he will shew them his covenant” (Psalm 25:14). So, the secret is kept for you. But if you don’t access that secret and apply it to the specific situation, the situation may remain unchanged.

If you want to see amazing results and changes in your life and circumstances, speak in other tongues. You’ll also be guided with the wisdom to know you’ve received the answers.

CONFESSION
As I spend quality time to pray in tongues today, I’m improved, built up and edified; I operate at a new level of spiritual maturity and efficiency. I make tremendous progress and take giant strides in every area of my life. I’m sensitive to the leading of the Spirit, attentive to His promptings and signals, as I follow His guidance wholeheartedly, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
1 Corinthians 14:2 AMPC
For one who speaks in an [unknown] tongue speaks not to men but to God, for no one understands or catches his meaning, because in the [Holy] Spirit he utters secret truths and hidden things [not obvious to the understanding].

1 Corinthians 14:18
I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all:

Jude 1:20
But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Ephesians 5:3-21 & Isaiah 27-28

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
John 1:43-51 & 1 Kings 4

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SATURDAY 30TH SEPTEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME : IT’S A MATTER OF THE HEART

THEME SCRIPTURE: For neither did his brethren believe in him (John 7:5).

In John 7:3-4 MSG, we’re told something quite staggering about the siblings of Jesus: they were sceptical and didn’t believe in Him. They said to Him as they were getting ready to go for the Feast of Tabernacles, “...Why don’t you leave here and go up to the Feast so your disciples can get a good look at the works you do? No one who intends to be publicly known does everything behind the scenes. If you’re serious about what you are doing, come out in the open and show the world.”

The 5th verse specifically says, “His brothers were pushing him like this because they didn’t believe in him either” (MSG). They were aware of the circumstances surrounding His birth, having heard the story from their mother, Mary, and their father, Joseph, who also had received angelic visitations about Jesus’ birth. Yet, they didn’t believe.

That’s because believing is of the heart. And thanks be unto God, the perspective and opinion of the siblings of Jesus changed when they witnessed His miraculous ascension! That was when they believed. It was a most remarkable event!

As they stood with the other disciples, the “Jesus, whom they had known all their lives,” didn’t suddenly vanish or disappear; rather, in His glorified physical body, He levitated before their eyes right into heaven. For once, they realized that the one whom they had the privilege of growing up with was truly God.

This incredible event left no room for doubt or speculation in their hearts about His origin. Now, they really understood that the Lord Jesus was truly from above (John 8:23). If you study the book of Acts, Luke tells us in the very first chapter that His mother and His siblings joined the company of disciples and continued with them in fellowship (read Acts 1:13-14). Hallelujah!

That’s why, no matter the stories you hear and how many angelic visitations you receive, you still have to make the choice to believe from your heart. It’s a matter of the heart, just as Paul puts it in Romans 10:10 NKJV, “For with the heart one believes unto righteousness, and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.”

True faith stems from the heart. However, the mind must be open to receive the information, and a decision must be made to embrace it. Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for the opportunity of being regularly exposed to the ministry of your Word and to express my faith. Always, my heart is set in order, receptive, fully prepared to receive your Word joyfully. I experience the life-changing power of your Word as I align my heart, mind and actions with its truth, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Romans 10:10
For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.

John 20:29
Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed [are] they that have not seen, and [yet] have believed.

Acts 1:9-14
And when he had spoken these things, while they beheld, he was taken up; and a cloud received him out of their sight. And while they looked stedfastly toward heaven as he went up, behold, two men stood by them in white apparel; 1Which also said, Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? this same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as ye have seen him go into heaven. Then returned they unto Jerusalem from the mount called Olivet, which is from Jerusalem a sabbath day's journey. And when they were come in, they went up into an upper room, where abode both Peter, and James, and John, and Andrew, Philip, and Thomas, Bartholomew, and Matthew, James [the son] of Alphaeus, and Simon Zelotes, and Judas [the brother] of James. These all continued with one accord in prayer and supplication, with the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with his brethren.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Ephesians 5:22-6:1-9 & Isaiah 29-30

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 2:1-11 & 1 Kings 5

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

SUNDAY O1 OCTOBER

THEME: HIS BODY WAS BROKEN FOR YOU

THEME SCRIPTURE: I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing (John 15:5).

The night Jesus made the statement above was the same night He was betrayed. All the gospels recorded events that transpired that night. The Synoptic gospels—Matthew, Mark, and Luke—focused on the Communion Jesus had with His disciples while John focused on certain important teachings Jesus gave from the 13th chapter all the way to the 16th chapter. It was indeed a long night.

Something significant happened during the Communion, which occurred earlier in the night. Paul, by revelation, gives us insight into this: “…the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me” (1 Corinthians 11:23-24). Jesus said to His disciples, “Eat my body which is broken for you.” This was the bread of life that if any man would eat, he would live forever (John 6:51).

Shortly afterwards, He said to them, “I am the vine, ye are the branches…” (John 15:5). This was no ordinary teaching; He wasn’t talking religiously. This glorious relationship came about as they broke bread and drank the cup, being His body and blood.On that night,He brought them into a new kind of relationship that wasn’t there before. Now, in this oneness with them, He headed to the cross in their place. Do you see why there’s no need for you to ever be broken anymore?

There’s no need for your child to be born sick. No reason for you to be diabetic, to have heart trouble, cancer, asthma, or even the flu; His body was broken for you. What if you feel symptoms in your body? That’s why He said to us, “…this do in remembrance of me” (1 Corinthians 11:24). So, as you take the Communion, you say, “I haven’t forgotten that His body was broken for me. I refuse to be sick! I proclaim divine health for my body.” Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Thank you, blessed heavenly Father, for your unfathomable love in sending Jesus to be the propitiation for my sin. I’m free from sickness, disease and every form of affliction because of His body that was broken for me. I walk in health, strength and victory, being rooted in your Word and guided by your Spirit. I bear much fruit, bringing glory to your Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
1 Corinthians 11:23-26 (KJV)
23 For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, that the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread: 24 And when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me. 25 After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, this cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me. 26 For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come.

John 6:51-56 (KJV)
51 I am the living bread which came down from heaven: if any man eat of this bread, he shall live for ever: and the bread that I will give is my flesh, which I will give for the life of the world. 52 The Jews therefore strove among themselves, saying, How can this man give us his flesh to eat? 53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. 54 Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. 55 For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. 56 He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
Ephesians 6:10-24; Isaiah 31-32

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:
John 2:12-25; 1 Kings 6

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

MONDAY 2ND OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: SOAR HIGHER

THEME SCRIPTURE: Blessed is the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit (Jeremiah 17:7-8 ).

When someone says to you, “Things are so expensive now; prices have gone up.” Smile and say, “I’ve gone higher than the prices. I’ve ascended beyond inflation.” That should always be your mentality.

From experience, we’ve only known prices of goods and commodities to always keep going higher. The cry has always been that things are getting more expensive. So, if it’s happening again, why do you care? Don’t let it trouble you, because you’re the seed of Abraham. Your life is different.

I found out in my Bible that God’s people always soared in hard times. Isaac prospered in the midst of extremely harsh economic conditions (Genesis 26). Don’t be troubled; just raise your standard higher; soar higher than the world’s market forces. Let your mind soar beyond the country where you live. Think how big God is, and what He can do with and through you.

We shine brighter in the dark. When everything is bright, not everyone’s light will be noticed. But when it’s dark, even the dimmest flicker will be noticed; every light shines in the dark. The Bible says, “For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee” (Isaiah 60:2). It’s time for you to shine!

The Bible says, “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28). When inflation skyrockets and the prices of commodities increase, don’t cry or complain. It’ll only create opportunities for you because your faith will get you the money you require. Your prosperity isn’t based on what your company pays you or the available opportunities in your country; your prosperity is a function of who you are: an heir of God and a joint-heir with Christ.

PRAYER
Dear Father, I affirm that I excel beyond inflation and financial uncertainties. Your Word empowers me to flourish regardless of external circumstances, for you are my true source. I am not a victim of the economy of my nation. I am among those creating opportunities for others. I have already overcome the world and its systems, so I am reigning in life, in the Name of Jesus. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Romans 8:37
Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

Psalm 37:25
I have been young, and [now] am old; yet have I not seen the righteous forsaken, nor his seed begging bread.

Philippians 4:19 But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Philippians 1:1-30 & Isaiah 33-34

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 3:1-8 & 1 Kings 7

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

TUESDAY 3RD OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: PUT YOUR CONFIDENCE IN THE WORD

THEME SCRIPTURE: By faith Noah, being warned of God of things not seen as yet, moved with fear, prepared an ark to the saving of his house; by the which he condemned the world, and became heir of the righteousness which is by faith (Hebrews 11:7).

The Bible tells us how the Lord told Noah to build an ark because He was about to destroy the earth with a great flood. All the people and animals on earth drowned and whole cities were submerged in the flood. Yet, the very flood of judgment that came to destroy the ungodly bore Noah’s ark up; it bore up the righteous!

As the floods of inflation, disaster and violence beat on the world in these latter days, refuse to fret or fear. What you need to live victoriously is the deposit of God’s Word in your spirit. You’ve got to know and have the Word in you. With the Word in you, your success is assured, no matter what happens around you.

Colossians 3:16 says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom...” That’s it! Inundate your spirit with the Word and you’ll stay afloat like the ark of Noah, and the circumstances responsible for sinking businesses, careers and finances will be for your promotion.

The floods of economic and natural disasters in the world aren’t against you. God has ordained your promotion and prosperity. He already planned that you’ll be a success irrespective of what’s going on around you. Remember lsaac: he reaped a hundredfold harvest even when there was famine (Genesis 26:12).

You’re ordained to prosper in a time of inflation. This is your life as a Christian. Let your confidence rest only in how much of the Word of Christ you have in you and live by, not in how much money you have in your bank account. As you allow the Word to dominate you, it’ll give you the mentality of a victor such that no matter what happens, you’ll stay above only.

CONFESSION
The entrance of God’s Word floods my heart with light and brings brilliance and beauty into my life. I do not fret over the hardship, inflation and evil in today’s world, for they’re not set against me! I’ve ascended above the economics of this world! I’m in my place of inheritance in Christ Jesus, where I prosper continually. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:
Psalm 1:1-3
Blessed [is] the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight [is] in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.

Joshua 1:8 AMPC
This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.

Jeremiah 17:7-8
Blessed [is] the man that trusteth in the LORD, and whose hope the LORD is. For he shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and [that] spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but her leaf shall be green; and shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Philippians 2:1-18 & lsaiah 35-37

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 3:9-21 & 1 Kings 8

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

WEDNESDAY 4TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: CHOOSE TO WIN

THEME SCRIPTURE: I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live (Deuteronomy 30:19).

One important choice you have to make in life is to always win. Choose to win. When you choose to win, nothing in the world will be able to stop you. But the first thing is for you to make that decision, because not everyone chooses to win.

Some people go through life just hoping things will turn out right; they don't consciously think about winning. Such people say, “Well, if I’m lucky, I’ll make it.” No! Don’t wait for luck. God’s children don’t hope for luck or walk by luck; we walk in the grace and blessings of God.

Some others say, “I won't choose anything, win or lose.” If you don’t choose to win, you have chosen to fail. How can you help others if you don’t choose to win? The world has more poor people than rich people, and more suffering people than those who are sound and prosperous. If you’re not prosperous, you can’t help others to become prosperous.

It’s only people who are up that can help those who are down to come up. So, where do you want to be in life? What side of the street do you want to live? I found out from the Scriptures that God gave us the right to choose, and also points out the right and the best option for us to choose.

Notice that in our opening verse, He didn’t say, “Choose whichever one you think is okay”; no! He shows us what’s better and tells us to choose it. You can choose to win at whatever stage you are in life.

Are you a student? Do you work or do you own a business? Make the choice to be the best and achieve the highest height of success possible. God will take you from one step to another in an upward and forward journey of success.

PRAYER
Dear Father, I choose to walk in your ways and align my thoughts, words and actions with your will. I’m not governed by luck or chance; rather, I walk in the path of victory, promotion, strength, health and excellence, as I navigate my way through life with your Word, to the praise and glory of your Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Deuteronomy 30:19 AMPC
I call heaven and earth to witness this day against you that I have set before you life and death, the blessings and the curses; therefore choose life, that you and your descendants may live

1 Samuel 17:32-37
And David said to Saul, Let no man's heart fail because of him; thy servant will go and fight with this Philistine. 33 And Saul said to David, Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou [art but] a youth, and he a man of war from his youth. And David said unto Saul, Thy servant kept his father's sheep, and there came a lion, and a bear, and took a lamb out of the flock: And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered [it] out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught [him] by his beard, and smote him, and slew him. Thy servant slew both the lion and the bear: and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he hath defied the armies of the living God. David said moreover, The LORD that delivered me out of the paw of the lion, and out of the paw of the bear, he will deliver me out of the hand of this Philistine. And Saul said unto David, Go, and the LORD be with thee.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Philippians 2:19 -3:1-11 & Isaiah 38-39

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 3:22-36 & 1 Kings 9

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

THURSDAY 5TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: EXPECT GOOD THINGS EVERY DAY

THEME SCRIPTURE: And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man (Luke 2:52).

There’re people who don’t expect good outcomes in their lives. They’re so used to struggling, suffering and seeing failure and stagnation that they never expect more. They never expect that their lives could be better. They haven’t learnt to expect favours; they haven’t learnt to take advantage of the grace and glory of God available to all who are in Christ Jesus.

Our opening scripture tells us how Jesus increased in wisdom, increased in stature and also in favour with God and with man. Some people have increased only in stature without increasing in wisdom and favour. Don’t just be satisfied to grow in stature; grow in wisdom and favour. Always affirm, “Im increasing in favour!”

Yes! Become expectant that God is favouring you. Expect that favour is being channelled towards you from God and men. Expect to always walk into divine opportunities. It’s good to work hard, but remember what the Bible says, “Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think anything as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God” (2 Corinthians 3:5).

Moreover, the Bible says not of works lest any man should boast (Ephesians 2:9); it’s not about your hard work but by the grace of God. So, always be in a state of expectancy with God; expect good things because you’re a child of God and a child of grace. His grace is superabundant upon your life.

Expect blessings every day. The Bible says He daily loads us with benefits (Psalm 68:19); He does it every day. Psalm 33:5 says, “...the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.” Who’s the goodness for? It’s for you! So expect good things every day. Make continual proclamations of the favour of God working in your life.

CONFESSION
My faith is alive and working, ever ready to receive, and always expecting good outcomes. I walk into divine favour and opportunities today. I’m conscious that God loves to always prosper me and delights in doing good things for me. I’m conscious that I’m walking in the blessings of Abraham. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Psalm 5:12
For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as [with] a shield.

Proverbs 3:4
So shalt thou find favour and good understanding in the sight of God and man.

Psalm 84:11 For the LORD God [is] a sun and shield: the LORD will give grace and glory: no good [thing] will he withhold from them that walk uprightly.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Philippians 3:12-4:1-3 & Isaiah 40-41

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 4:1-9 & 1 Kings 10-11

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

FRIDAY 6TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: WHO YOU ARE NOW

THEME SCRIPTURE: Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not (1 John 3:1).

The word “sons” in our opening verse is from the Greek “teknon,” which primarily refers to one born of parents. We’re the sons of God because we’re born of God. The world may not recognize this, but it’s true nonetheless. That’s why it says, “...therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not” (1 John 3:1).

The world didn’t recognize Jesus when He came; the people thought He was an ordinary man. The Bible says Jesus was begotten of God (Acts 13:33); the same is true of us as seen in James 1:18. It says, “Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.”

We’re sons of God now even though our outward appearance doesn’t show this. But I love how the apostle John sums it up in the concluding part of 1 John 3:2. He said, “Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is"

When the Lord appears at the Rapture of the Church, we shall be like Him outwardly. But already, we’re sons of God and we have His life in us. Refuse to see or describe yourself according to your earthly nativity, because in your spirit, you’re like Jesus. Hallelujah!

God has given us the divine nature in Christ Jesus, so now, as He is, so are we in this world (1 John 4:17). Once you understand this, you’ll realize you’re not living the human life. You’re not ordinary; you don’t belong in this world. You’re in God’s class, born of His Word and Spirit with this transcendent life. Glory to God!

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for the great love you’ve bestowed upon me in Christ Jesus. You’ve made me a partaker of the divine nature. I’m uninfectable, impregnable and full of life; I live victoriously to your glory and praise, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Romans 8:14-16
For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God. 15 For ye have not received the spirit of bondage again to fear; but ye have received the Spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father. 16 The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God:

Galatians 3:26* For ye are all the children of God by faith in Christ Jesus.

John 1:12-13
But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, [even] to them that believe on his name: Which were born, not of blood, nor of the will of the flesh, nor of the will of man, but of God.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Philippians 4:4-23 & Isaiah 42-43

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 4:10-18 & 1 Kings 12

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SATURDAY 7TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: THE EXPRESS IMAGE OF HIS PERSON

THEME SCRIPTURE: Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world (1 John 4:17).

An important question to ask after reading our opening verse is: What was Jesus like when the Father sent Him? The Bible gives us a description in Hebrews 1:3: “Who being the brightness of his glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of his power, when he had by himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high.”

Two phrases to notice in this verse are: “the brightness of his glory” and “the express image of his person.” Jesus was the brightness—the effulgence or the outshining—of God’s glory. Each time He stepped out, He was the glory of God manifested. He was also the express image of the Father’s person.

If you wanted to know what God was like, you looked at Jesus. He was the absolute description of the Father, and His life was endlessly glorious. Now, Jesus says, “...as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you” (John 20:21). Then 1 John 4:17 tells us that as He (Jesus) is, so are we in this world.

This means that just as Jesus is the brightness of God’s glory, you’re the brightness of Jesus’ glory. You’re the express image of the Father’s person as Jesus. This is too lofty for the religious mind to grasp, but it’s one of the truths of who we are in Christ and what He’s made us. He sent us to go into all the world and express His love, kindness, nature and character.

Remember what He said in John 15:5, “I am the vine, ye are the branches...” That means we have the same life. He’s also given us His Name, so we have the same name. What belongs to Him belongs to us; we’re “...heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ...” (Romans 8:17).

Even now, declare with absolute confidence, “I’m the express image of the Father’s person. I reveal and unveil His glory.” Hallelujah!

CONFESSION
I’m an heir of God and a joint-heir with Christ. I possess the same life and bear the same name as the Lord Jesus. Therefore, I manifest His love, kindness, nature, and character to the world around me, and as a vessel, His glory shines and is revealed through me with greater intensity. I bring the reality of this truth to many, and they accept the salvation that’s in Christ Jesus. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Romans 8:17
And if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with [him], that we may be also glorified together.

2 Corinthians 3:18* But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, [even] as by the Spirit of the Lord.

2 Corinthians 4:6
For God, who commanded the light to shine out of darkness, hath shined in our hearts, to [give] the light of the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.

Ephesians 5:1 Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children;

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Colossians 1:1-23 & Isaiah 44-45

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 4:19-29 & 1 Kings 13

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SUNDAY 8TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: COMPASSION—A STRONG DESIRE TO REMOVE PAIN

THEME SCRIPTURE: But thou, O Lord, art a God full of compassion, and gracious, longsuffering, and plenteous in mercy and truth (Psalm 86:15).

Notice that the Bible didn’t say God has compassion, which would also have been wonderful, but it says God is full of compassion. What’s compassion?

Compassion means to recognize or to become aware of the sufferings of another with a desire to alleviate that suffering. That’s what makes it different from sympathy. To sympathize with someone means to identify with someone in his suffering or pain. That doesn’t mean the sympathizer is going to or able to do anything about the person’s suffering.

Compassion is also different from mercy, which is forbearance shown especially to an offender or to someone you have the right or power to punish. But compassion has a strong desire to remove the pain. If there’s no desire to take away the suffering, then it’s not compassion.

So, when the Bible says God is full of compassion, it means He looks at you and recognizes what you may be going through with a desire to change the situation. Hallelujah! The Bible says we have a high priest who is touched with the feeling of our infirmities (Hebrews 4:15).

Psalm 145:8 says, “The LORD is gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.” God is loaded with compassion; He’s never mad at you. Rather, He’s always moved with a desire to bless you, help you, and change your situation.

PRAYER
Gracious Father, you’re full of compassion and abounding in mercy and truth. Thank you, for your compassion knows no bounds, and l’m grateful for your unwavering love and care. That same compassion is ignited within me to recognize the sufferings of others; I’m moved with a burning desire to alleviate their pain and make a positive difference in their lives through the Word and by your Spirit, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Psalm 78:38
But he, [being] full of compassion, forgave [their] iniquity, and destroyed [them] not: yea, many a time turned he his anger away, and did not stir up all his wrath.

Psalm 111:4
He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD [is] gracious and full of compassion.

Matthew 9:36
But when he saw the multitudes, he was moved with compassion on them, because they fainted, and were scattered abroad, as sheep having no shepherd.

Colossians 3:12
Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuffering;

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Colossians 1:24-2:1-5 & Isaiah 46-47

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 4:30-42 & 1 Kings 14

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

MONDAY 9TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: COMPASSION IS A FORCE

THEME SCRIPTURE: And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean (Mark 1:41).

Recall what we said in our previous study about compassion: a strong desire to ease the pain of others. Compassion compels one to action. Compassion is a force.

When you study Jesus and the way He ministered, you’d observe that He was often moved by compassion. Every time He had compassion on, or was moved with compassion for someone, He did something to change the situation.

Compassion moved Him to teach the people, feed them, and heal them. Mark 6:34 says, “And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things.” Matthew 14:14 says, “And Jesus went forth, and saw a great multitude, and was moved with compassion toward them, and he healed their sick.”

Compassion moved Him to raise the only son of a widow back to life in a city called Nain. When Jesus saw the widow, the Bible says, “...he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not” (Luke 7:13). He then touched the casket and commanded the dead man to get up, and he came back to life.

Matthew 20:30 tells us of two blind men who cried after Jesus, saying: “Son of David, have mercy upon us!” Jesus stopped to ask them what they wanted and they replied that they wanted to receive their sight. The Bible says, “So Jesus had compassion on them, and touched their eyes: and immediately their eyes received sight, and they followed him” (Matthew 20:34).

So, like the Master, we’re to be full of compassion. Change comes when we’re moved with compassion. We’re His express image today. He’s counting on you to be moved with compassion and do something for those in need; change the lives and circumstances of those in your world. You’ve been empowered by the Spirit to take action, offer comfort and be a vessel of God’s love and kindness to a hurting world.

PRAYER
Dear Father, I’m stirred by the examples of Jesus who being moved with compassion brought healing, strength, comfort and hope to those in need. I’m empowered by your Spirit to take action, to offer comfort, and to be a vessel of your love and kindness to a hurting world, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Psalm 145:8
The LORD [is] gracious, and full of compassion; slow to anger, and of great mercy.

Psalm 112:4
Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: [he is] gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Colossians 2:6-23 & Isaiah 48-49

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 4:43-54 & 1 Kings 15

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

TUESDAY 10TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: FASTING HELPS TO MAINTAIN SPIRITUAL FOCUS

THEME SCRIPTURE: And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away (Acts 13:3).

There’re several spiritual blessings and benefits of fasting and one of them is that it helps you maintain spiritual focus. It involves putting away food, but it’s not just about abstinence from food but all forms of distraction for the time being. This helps your spirit to become more sensitive to the Spirit of God. You become more conscious of His leading within your spirit.

At such times when your heart and mind are turned away from the things of this world unto the Lord, it becomes easy for you to receive His guidance.

If you’re going to be spiritually alert and walk spiritually, you should fast from time to time. That means to centre your attention on the Lord for the time. By doing this, your spirit gains the ascendency. When you want to deal with certain important things of the Spirit or you’re studying the Word and you want to have the insight and sensitivity of the Spirit, fast.

Through fasting and prayer, your effectiveness in the things of the Spirit is improved. Your ability to hear and receive from God is sharpened, and you’re more attuned to the finer signals and instructions of the Spirit that you need for a higher level of life; a life of continuous glory and success. Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Dear Father, my spirit is attuned to your leading, guidance, promptings, direction and voice within me. I’m receptive and responsive to you as you guide me to walk in, and fulfil, your perfect will today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Joel 1:14
Sanctify ye a fast, call a solemn assembly, gather the elders [and] all the inhabitants of the land [into] the house of the LORD your God, and cry unto the LORD,

Joel 2:12
Therefore also now, saith the LORD, turn ye [even] to me with all your heart, and with fasting, and with weeping, and with mourning:

Luke 2:36-37
And there was one Anna, a prophetess, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Aser: she was of a great age, and had lived with an husband seven years from her virginity; 37 And she [was] a widow of about fourscore and four years, which departed not from the temple, but served [God] with fastings and prayers night and day.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Colossians 3:1-4:1 & lsaiah 50-51

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 5:1-9 & 1 Kings 16

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

WEDNESDAY 11TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: YOUR TONGUE IS THE COMPASS

THEME SCRIPTURE: For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body (James 3:2).

Proverbs 18:21 says, “Death and life are in the power of the tongue....” It parallels what the Master said in Matthew 12:37, “For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.” Through your thoughts, your character is formed, but it’s expressed through your words. Your mouth-work is your life.

As revealed in our opening verse, Christian perfection or maturity is expressed primarily in your communication. If you want to go in the right direction in life, your tongue is the compass. If you offend in words, you’re sunk; but if your communication is wholesome, your life will be great. Your speech controls you. Proverbs 15:4 says, “A wholesome tongue is a tree of life...” I love the way Peter puts it in 1 Peter 3:10; it says, “For he that will love life, and see good days, let him refrain his tongue from evil, and his lips that they speak no guile.” In other words, maintain the right confession.

Your mouth is where your blessing is. Romans 10:10 says, “...with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.” It’s a principle. God said to Joshua, “This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night...” (Joshua 1:. That means keep affirming the Word.

No matter what’s happening around you, keep the Word on your lips. The Bible says, “When men are cast down, then thou shalt say, There is lifting up...” (Job 22:29). Again, the emphasis is on what you say. When things are rough and tough, you’re not to wait to be lifted; you have a lifting power; it’s in your mouth.

What is it that you want? It’s all in your mouth. That’s the compass with which you steer your life aright, in the direction of God’s perfect will. Blessed be God!

CONFESSION
I have a wholesome tongue; my words are sculpted in line with God’s perfect will and direction for my life. I walk in divine health, prosperity, victory, success and financial abundance, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Matthew 12:37 AMPC
For by your words you will be justified and acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned and sentenced.

Mark 11:23
For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Colossians 4:2-18 & lsaiah 52-53

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 5:10-18 & 1 Kings 17-18

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

THURSDAY 12TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: A CALLING TO GLORY AND VIRTUE

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).

The verse above says God has called us to glory and virtue. That means we’ve been called to a life of honour, heavenly dignity, and excellence. No matter what situation you find yourself in, your life is one of honour, dignity and excellence. Glory to God!

The Amplified Classic says He “...called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue).” There should be no mediocrity in your life because excellence is working in you.

The Apostle Paul says, “We encouraged you, we comforted you, and we kept urging you to live the kind of life that pleases God, who calls you to share in his own Kingdom and glory” (1 Thessalonians 2:12 GNB). What a life He’s given us! How could you live an ordinary life when you have a calling to glory and virtue?

It doesn’t matter how dark and gloomy things get in this world; be unruffled because your journey in life is one direction only: upward and forward. You’re not of this world! Your path is different. It’s a path of glory and excellence, prosperity and success, peace and joy. Hallelujah!

CONFESSION
My life is for the glory of God and I experience His goodness and mercies today; my life is one of honour, excellence, praise, glory and thanksgiving to the Lord at all times. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:
1 Peter 2:9 AMPC* But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God's] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.

2 Peter 1:3 AMPC
For His divine power has bestowed upon us all things that [are requisite and suited] to life and godliness, through the [full, personal] knowledge of Him Who called us by and to His own glory and excellence (virtue).

2 Corinthians 3:18
But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, [even] as by the Spirit of the Lord.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Thessalonians 1-2:1-16 & Isaiah 54-56

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 5:19-27 & 1 Kings 19

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

FRIDAY 13TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: CUT THEM OFF!

THEME SCRIPTURE: "Get out of here, Satan," Jesus told him. "For the Scriptures say, 'You must worship the Lord your God; serve only him' (Matthew 4:10 NLT).

When the Lord Jesus ministered to different people in Bible days, He cast out a lot of demons, showing us that demons are responsible for most of the afflictions that people suffer with. And in Mark 16:17 He listed several signs to identify those who believe, and the very first of the signs is that they shall cast out demons.

But during His forty days in the wilderness, He gave us an insight into how to deal with Satan and demons. Satan had come to tempt Him, and the first temptation was for Jesus to command stones to be made bread. In response, Jesus, quoting from the Book of Deuteronomy, said, “...It is written, Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceedeth out of the mouth of God” (Matthew 4:4).

For the second time, the Bible says, “Then the devil taketh him up into the holy city, and setteth him on a pinnacle of the temple, and saith unto him, If thou be the Son of God, cast thyself down...” (Matthew 4:5-6). Again, Jesus responded and said, “...It is written again, Thou shalt not tempt the Lord thy God” (Matthew 4:7).

Then came the last temptation. At a high mountain, Satan showed Him all the kingdoms of the world in a moment, offering them to Jesus, if He would bow down and worship him. Jesus said, “Get out of here, Satan!” The original word in Hebrew for “Get out of here” signifies “sink out,” or “disappear.” That’s casting out the devil!

In those three temptations, Jesus was consistent in emphasizing to Satan, “It is written...,” and after establishing that clearly, He said, “Get out of here!” That’s how to deal with Satan; you cast him out or cut him off from your home, your body, your city, nation, etc.

If it’s your child, and he or she is within the age where you’re still in control of what they do, you say, “Devil, this is my child; take your hands off my child; get out of here!” He’s got to obey, because you’re exercising your authority in Christ. You have the legal right, the power of attorney to use the Name of Jesus and subdue Satan and his demons. Cut them off! Praise God!

PRAYER
Satan has no right to run things in my life, in my home or the lives of my loved ones; by my authority in Christ, I exercise dominion over him and his demons. I walk in power and in the glory of the Father, in the Name of Jesus Christ. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Matthew 10:7-8
And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. 8 Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.

Luke 10:19
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 1:25-26 MSG
Jesus shut him up: "Quiet! Get out of him!" 26 The afflicting spirit threw the man into spasms, protesting loudly--and got out

Ephesians 4:27 GNB:
Don't give the Devil a chance.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:1-13 & lsaiah 57-58

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 5:28-32 & 1 Kings 20

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SATURDAY 14TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: MORE THAN HUMAN

THEME SCRIPTURE: And this is the testimony: that God has given us eternal life, and this life is in His Son. He who has the Son has life: he who does not have the Son of God does not have life (1 John 5:11-12 NKJV).

Christ in you means eternal life in you. Eternal life is the life and nature of God: the God-life. Notice the tenses in our theme scripture; it says God “has given us eternal life.” It’s not a promise. He’s not “going” to give us eternal life. You have that life NOW. As a result, John says in the 13th verse, “I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life” (1 John 5:13 NIV).

He wants you to know that you’re more than human. Your human life has been supplanted by the life and nature of God. This divine life in you has made fellowship and oneness with God possible. You’re by no means an ordinary person. Recall the words of the psalmist in Psalm 82:6, “I have said, Ye are gods, and all of you are children of the most High.”

The same truth is referenced and reiterated by the Lord Jesus in John 10:35 when He said, “If he called them gods, unto whom the word of God came, and the scripture cannot be broken.” We are gods, because God gave birth to us. We’re the offspring of the Word: “Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever” (1 Peter 1:23). 1 John 4:17 says, “... as He is, so are we in this world.

CONFESSION
Christ lives in me! I’m the expression of His reality, His grace, glory, kingdom, power and personality! I’m the expression of His fullness; He is my completeness. It makes no difference what challenges I face in life; there’s a force—an empowerment—at work in me to blaze through the barriers. Everything and anything l could ever need is inside the greater One that lives in me. Glory to God!

FURTHER STUDY:
1 Corinthians 3:16
Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and [that] the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?

Colossians 1:26-27
[Even] the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: 27 To whom God would make known what [is] the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

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.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Thessalonians 4:1-18 & Isaiah 59-60

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 5:33-47 & 1 Kings 21

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SUNDAY 15TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: GOD ALIVE IN YOU

THEME SCRIPTURE: And to know the love of Christ, which passeth knowledge, that ye might be filled with all the fulness of God (Ephesians 3:19).

The Bible says, “...Christ in you, the hope of glory” (Colossians 1:27). Christ in you means God alive and at work in you.

2 Corinthians 5:19 says, “To wit, that GOD WAS IN CHRIST, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.” It was God working in Christ as He walked the streets in Bible days doing those mighty miracles that He did.

Also, Colossians 1:19 says, “For it pleased the Father that in him (Christ) should all fulness dwell.” When Jesus walked the earth, all of divinity was at home in Him. He was God alive—walking and talking in a man’s body. But that’s not the end. The same God is in you now as He was in Christ. Hallelujah!

Having received the Holy Spirit, God lives in you now; you’re His temple. Through you, He impacts your world. He brings sinners out of darkness into His marvellous light. You’re His extension in the earth today.

Remember His words, “...l will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people” (2 Corinthians 6:16). He’s talking in you and walking in you today. Every time you’re ministering to someone about Jesus, that’s God at work and alive in you and through you.

It’s the reason you must be faithful and diligent in soul winning because through you, the Father expresses His love and righteousness. He said in Mark 16:15, “...Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature.” Through you, He impacts this world with the glory of His divine presence, demonstrates the character of the Spirit, fills the earth with the knowledge of His glory, and rains righteousness upon the nations. Hallelujah!

CONFESSION
Everywhere I go, I go in and with the Father who lives permanently in me. Through me, He expresses His love and righteousness to others, for I’m His extension in the earth by Christ Jesus. Glory to God!*

FURTHER STUDY:
Philippians 2:13
For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of [his] good pleasure.

Colossians 1:26-27
[Even] the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints: To whom God would make known what [is] the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-28 & Isaiah 61-63

2-Year Bible Reading Plan=John 6:1-14 & 1 Kings 22

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

MONDAY 16TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: THE LIFE HE’S GIVEN US

THEME SCRIPTURE: The thief comes only in order to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have and enjoy life, and have it in abundance (to the full, till it overflows) (John 10:10 AMPC).

Many don’t know why Jesus came. There’s a difference between what He came to do for Israel as a nation and what He came to do for the whole world. For the whole world, He came to give life to the full.

You can only give what you have, and Jesus didn’t just have life, He was life personified—the embodiment of life (1 John 1:2). The Bible says, “For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself” (John 5:26). It’s the reason He could give us life to the full. He’s the life-giver: “...it is written, The first man Adam became a living soul. The last Adam became a life-giving spirit” (1 Corinthians 15:45 ASV).

There’s something about this life that He’s given us. Paul helps us understand it some more in Romans 8:2. It says, “For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.” Paul wasn’t saying the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus has “freed” us from death but that it’s made us death-free.

You’re untouchable by death. You’ve been translated from the realm of death into the realm of life.

CONFESSION
I’m a partaker of the divine nature, filled with the “maximum load” of God. I walk in divine health, prosperity and victory every day. I am a living testimony of God’s grace, goodness and love. I walk in the consciousness of my new life in Christ, knowing that I am more than a conqueror and victorious in every situation. Thank you, Father, for the glorious life you’ve given me in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
John 5:24
Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life.

1 John 5:11-12
And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He that hath the Son hath life; [and] he that hath not the Son of God hath not life.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 & Isaiah 64-66

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 6:15-21 & 2 Kings 1-2

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

TUESDAY 17TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: LIGHT TO THE NATIONS

THEME SCRIPTURE: Do all things without murmurings and disputings: That ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world (Philippians 2:14-15).

There’s so much poverty in the world that’s not supposed to be there. Poverty is not from God; it’s man-made. The poverty and wickedness in the world are because of the selfishness of man, and that’s because Satan introduced that selfishness into man’s heart. He’s responsible for the darkness in our world.

But thanks be unto God! The Bible says even though darkness shall cover the earth and gross darkness the people, we’re to arise and shine (Isaiah 60:2-3). God sent us (the Church of Jesus Christ) as a light to the nations. And in these last days, we’ll shine with maximum intensity.

This is the time for us, as God’s people, to use what God has given us and take our place as the light of the world. The Bible says “...the dark places of the earth are full of the habitations of cruelty” (Psalm 74:20). But when we take our place, there’s no force, adversary or adversity on earth that can withstand us.

So, arise and shine. Impact your world. You’re the hope and solution that the world needs. The Lord has sent you to bring glory, excellence and meaning to the lives of those around you. You’re His hands of love, mercy, and compassion to your world. Hallelujah!

CONFESSION
I’m the hope and solution that the world needs, for the Lord has sent me as a light to bring glory, excellence and meaning to the lives of those around me. I’m God’s hands of love, mercy and compassion to the world. Praise God!

FURTHER STUDY:
Isaiah 60:1-3
Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the LORD shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee. And the Gentiles shall come to thy light, and kings to the brightness of thy rising.

Matthew 5:14-16
Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. 15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house. 16 Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17 & Jeremiah 1-2

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 6:22-29 & 2 Kings 3