RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

WEDNESDAY 18TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: BE SPIRITUALLY SENSITIVE

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

Many years ago, while casting a devil out from a dear lady, the demon, trying to put up some resistance, said, “I’m not coming out; I’m responsible for the removal of her fallopian tube!”

Of course, I didn’t bother to engage the demon in a dialogue; I simply said, “You’re coming out right now, in the Name of Jesus!” And he screamed and came out of the lady. Later on, the lady began to explain to me how she was given the wrong diagnosis and underwent a bilateral salpingectomy. She didn’t know demons were responsible for that cruel mistake.

This has happened to a lot of people. There’re people who have had to go through surgeries they never needed; some died in the process. Many hospitals are deathtraps, where demon spirits lodge and inspire doctors to do the wrong things. We’re living in the days of intense spiritual conflicts and warfare.

A young girl of about nine years became demon-possessed; her behaviour suddenly changed and her health became unstable. No one could understand what happened to her. She started having very strange dreams where she’d find herself at the bottom of a river with a “queen” and other girls of her age.

Her life became a mess. It was later discovered that it all happened at her school when her friend, who was demon-possessed, gave her a particular gift item, and the devil entered into her. Life is spiritual; everything you can see with your optical eyes and relate physically with, came from the realm of the spirit.

It’s essential for you to be spiritually sensitive to discern and decisively deal with the enemy whenever he shows up. Be on the alert. The Lord Jesus warned us to watch and pray (Mark 13:33). Speak in tongues often, because as you pray in tongues, spiritual realities are unveiled to your spirit and you won’t be ignorant of the devices of the enemy. You’ll see and will be able to relate with the “real” truth concerning any situation. Praise God!

CONFESSION
I’m strong in the Lord and in the power of His might. I keep His Word in my heart and in my mouth always and therefore discomfit all the stratagems, schemes, manoeuvres and manipulations of the devil. And as I speak in tongues, spiritual realities are unveiled to my spirit, and I see and relate with the “real” truth concerning any situation. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:
Ephesians 6:10-13 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. 11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. 12 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]. 13 Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

Colossians 1:9
For this cause we also, since the day we heard [it], do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;

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].

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18 & Jeremiah 3-4

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: cuz John 6:30-40 & 2 Kings 4

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

THURSDAY 19TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: A CALL TO ACTION

THEME SCRIPTURE: That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved (Romans 10:9).

When we preach the message of salvation to sinners, we must give them the opportunity to act their faith and receive salvation. There must be a call to action. If we don’t give them an opportunity to act their faith on the message, the seed sown in their hearts could be lost; Satan could steal it from their hearts (Matthew 13:18-19).

The proof that the seed of God’s Word has taken root in someone’s heart is their response and action of faith. Until a person responds in faith, it can be said that they have not truly heard the Word. When the Word is truly heard, it produces faith within the individual.

Faith comes by hearing (Romans 10:17); and faith is the response of the human spirit to the Word of God. So the response is so important. It’s the same when we minister to the sick. Take what Paul did in Lystra as an example.

A man who had been crippled since birth listened intently to Paul’s teachings. The Bible says Paul perceived that the man had faith to be healed. He locked eyes with him and then commanded, “Stand up on your feet!” The man jumped to his feet and walked, gloriously healed!

In ministering to people, be it the sinner, the sick, the oppressed or the depressed, we must provide clear instructions for their faith to be activated. Don’t just preach the Word and leave them wondering what to do next; put them through and let them act their faith on the words they’ve received.

Even now, while reading this, if you’ve never been born again, turn to the “Prayer of Salvation” on page 76; pray that prayer, mean it with all your heart and immediately. you’ll be saved, translated into the Kingdom of God. Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Father, your Word is life to me, and as I hear and receive your Word, I’m compelled to respond, because l’m a doer of the Word. My faith prevails as I walk in the consciousness of all that the death, burial, resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ consummated for me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
James 1:22
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

James 2:17
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

Acts 14:8-10
And there sat a certain man at Lystra, impotent in his feet, being a cripple from his mother's womb, who never had walked: 9 The same heard Paul speak: who stedfastly beholding him, and perceiving that he had faith to be healed, 10 Said with a loud voice, Stand upright on thy feet. And he leaped and walked.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Timothy 1:1-20 & Jeremiah 5-6

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 6:41-51 & 2 Kings 5

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

FRIDAY 20TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: ACT YOUR FAITH AND EXPERIENCE THE MIRACULOUS

THEME SCRIPTURE: So also faith, if it does not have works (deeds and actions of obedience to back it up), by itself is destitute of power (inoperative, dead) (James 2:17 AMPC).

Let’s consider the example of the man in Acts 3:1-16, who was lame from birth and begged for alms at the gate of the temple called Beautiful. The Lord Jesus Himself had been in that very temple multiple times, yet the man’s condition didn’t change.

But on a certain day, as Peter and John walked by, he begged them for money. Then, the Bible says that Peter looked at him intently and said, “Look on us.” Expecting to receive something, the man gave them his attention. Peter then declared, “Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have, give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, rise up and walk.”

Peter then took the man by the right hand and lifted him up. Immediately, the lame man’s feet and ankle bones received strength. Imagine if the man had resisted as Peter was trying to yank him up; he probably wouldn’t have received his miracle. The miraculous change in the man’s life occurred because the call to action was answered. He received the Word with corresponding action.

When you receive the Word about your prosperity and finances, for example, it’s important to back it up with the right actions. Without taking action, your situation may remain the same. For example, 2 Corinthians 8:7 (NIV) says, “But just as you excel in everything--in faith, in speech, in knowledge, in complete earnestness and in your love for us--see that you also excel in this grace of giving.” What do you do when you meditate on this truth?

First, understand that the Word has the power to change your situation. The Word brings you transformation through the power and Spirit of God. Therefore, when the Word comes to you like what we read in 2 Corinthians 8:7 above, recognize the call to action that accompanies it and respond.

Whenever you get a prompting from the Word or in your spirit as a result of the Word, don’t hesitate or wait. Seize the moment and respond immediately. By acting in faith, you position yourself to experience the miraculous blessings of the Word.

PRAYER
Dear Father, I thank you for the glory of your Word and the transformation I experience even now as your Word takes root in my spirit, producing in me fruits of righteousness. I respond and take action on your Word; therefore, your glory is seen in my life, and I experience the fullness of your blessings and abundant provisions, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
James 2:17-26
Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone. 18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works. Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble. But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead? Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God. Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only. Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent [them] out another way? 26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

Acts 3:6-9
Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. And he took him by the right hand, and lifted [him] up: and immediately his feet and ancle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood, and walked, and entered with them into the temple, walking, and leaping, and praising God. And all the people saw him walking and praising God:

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Timothy 2:1-15 & Jeremiah 7-8

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 6:52-60 & 2 Kings 6

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SATURDAY 21ST OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: YOU CAN CAST OUT DEMONS FROM ANYWHERE

THEME SCRIPTURE: Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give (Matthew 10:8 ).

There’re those who say, “You can cast demons out of individuals but you can’t cast them out of a city.” But that’s not true. In Mark 5, we find a very interesting story of Jesus demonstrating His authority in casting out devils. He came across a demoniac who lived among tombs, and had a legion of demons.

When the man saw Jesus from afar, the demon, speaking through him, said, “...What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not” (Mark 5:7). The Bible says the demon “...besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country” (Mark 5:10).

Even the demons knew Jesus could send them out of the country and they immediately began to plead with Him. Whether “the country” means countryside, a region or a territory, it makes no difference. They understood that Jesus could send them out of the place; they knew it then, and they still know it today! We’ve been given that same authority to put them to flight.

Jesus said, “And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues” (Mark 16:17 NKJV). Jesus gave us authority to cast out demons; He didn’t limit it to any place. We can cast out devils from anywhere. Hallelujah!

Take control of your city, state, and country! Cut off the influence of Satan in your country. Run him out of your country. Oftentimes, when there’s chaos, anarchy and turmoil in a place, many don’t realise that it’s the devil that’s behind such negative activities. But you’ve been vested with all power and authority in heaven and in earth to subdue, dominate and take charge of your world, using the Name of Jesus. Hallelujah!

PRAYER
The devil is a fully defeated foe, and I’ve been vested with all power and authority in heaven and in earth to subdue, dominate and take charge of my world. I therefore demand, in the Name of Jesus Christ, that the demons that influence and cause violence, shortage and opposition to the Gospel cease and desist from their operations in my nation. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Psalm 118:10-12 NIV
All the nations surrounded me, but in the name of the LORD I cut them down. They surrounded me on every side, but in the name of the LORD I cut them down. They swarmed around me like bees, but they were consumed as quickly as burning thorns; in the name of the LORD I cut them down.

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

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.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Timothy 3:1-16 & Jeremiah 9-10

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 6:61-71 & 2 Kings 7-8

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SUNDAY 22ND OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: THE URGENCY OF THE GOSPEL

THEME SCRIPTURE:...preach the Word of God urgently at all times, whenever you get the chance, in season and out, when it is convenient and when it is not. Correct and rebuke your people when they need it, encourage them to do right, and all the time be feeding them patiently with God’s Word (2 Timothy 4:2 TLB).

We must constantly remind ourselves that the Lord is coming soon. We must work hard as people who are living in expectation of the Lord. Commit yourself to spreading the Gospel as though it rested on you alone to tell it to the whole world. Be committed to it.

We’ve got to use every opportunity to propagate the Gospel and advance the Kingdom of God. No one’s effort is insignificant. It doesn’t matter where you are; whether you’re in a big city or a small town, ten souls in a small village have the same value to God as ten souls in a big city. It’s the same Jesus Christ that died for them.

Where you are is God’s headquarters! God cares about where you are and what you do where you are. The message of the Gospel committed to us to preach is the only hope for salvation. Therefore, never be discouraged or distracted; preach it with urgency and conviction.

You’re the custodian of this glorious Gospel; it’s your responsibility to preach it with the knowledge and power of the Spirit. Think and talk like Paul in the way he personalized the divine mandate to preach the Gospel. In 1 Timothy 1:11, he said, “According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was COMMITTED TO MY TRUST.”

Notice the latter part; he didn’t say the Gospel which is committed to “our trust” but to “my trust!” The Great Commission was personal to Paul. He ran with it as though it depended on him alone to preach the Gospel to the whole world. That’s how it ought to be. Be committed to the urgency of the hour. Preach the Gospel irrespective of the tests, trials and persecutions that you might face while at it. Remember, the time is short.

PRAYER
Blessed be God for His unfathomable grace, wisdom and mercy lavished upon His Church to effectively proclaim the Gospel and establish His righteousness in all the earth in these last days! Thank you Father, for commiting this glorious Gospel to my trust; I preach it in season and out of season, hauling many from darkness to light, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

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

2 Timothy 4:5* But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.

Philippians 1:27
Only let your conversation be as it becometh the gospel of Christ: that whether I come and see you, or else be absent, I may hear of your affairs, that ye stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel;

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan:,1 Timothy 4:1-16 & Jeremiah 11-12

2-Year Bible Reading Plan; John 7:1-10 & 2 Kings 9

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

MONDAY 23RD OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: RIGHTEOUS USE OF YOUR FINANCES

THEME SCRIPTURE: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33).

Whatever you are currently doing with your finances, especially in relation to God, to the propagation of the Gospel and the advancement of the Kingdom is a reflection of what you would do if your finances were multiplied a hundred times.

Someone might think, “Only if l could get a million dollars, I’ll be a big financier of the Kingdom of God!” The question is, have you been faithful with the little committed to you? Have you put that little in your trust into the Gospel?

The Lord Jesus, in Luke 16:10, emphasizes the principle of faithfulness and integrity in managing worldly possessions when He said, “He who is faithful in a very little [thing] is faithful also in much, and who is dishonest and unjust in a very little [thing] is dishonest and unjust also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the [case of] unrighteous mammon (deceitful riches, money, possessions), who will entrust to you the true riches?” (Luke 16:10-11 AMPC).

Money is an amplifier; it has the unique ability to amplify, magnify or reveal one’s character. Every action and decision you make with your money today is a testament to your character, and this fundamental aspect of your character will not change when your financial resources are increased. You will simply do more of what you have been doing.

For people who already use their money in negative ways, having more financial resources will only amplify those negative actions. Conversely, if you’re using your money for righteous purposes, seeding the Gospel, and advancing the Kingdom, having more money will amplify those good actions.

That’s why you need to examine your current financial behaviours; do they align with the principles of God’s Word? God is pleased to multiply the finances of those who are committed to His righteous cause. When you prioritize serving the Lord and His Kingdom, your actions with money become a testament of faithfulness. It’s not about the amount of money you possess; rather, it’s the alignment of your heart and intentions with God’s purposes.

By consistently prioritizing the Gospel of Jesus Christ and seeking His Kingdom above all else, you position yourself to experience God’s provisions and the multiplication of your resources. Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Dear Father, I declare that I am a faithful steward of all that you have entrusted to me, and I use my finances in ways that honour and glorify you. My financial character is rooted in righteousness. I give generously, sowing seeds of blessing, and I’m committed to the prosperity and advancement of the Kingdom, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Luke 16:10-12 He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true [riches]? And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man's, who shall give you that which is your own?

2 Corinthians 9:6-9
But this [I say], He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully. Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver. And God [is] able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all [things], may abound to every good work: (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Timothy 5:1-25 & Jeremiah 13-14

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 7:11-19 & 2 Kings 10

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

TUESDAY 24TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: DON’T FORGET WHAT SPECIES YOU ARE

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

God’s Word has been given to us to lead, guide, instruct and train us in the things of the Kingdom of God. But even more importantly, God gave us His Word to enable us see ourselves the way He sees us. That’s because His Word is a mirror (2 Corinthians 3:18).

When you look into the mirror of God, you see the image that God has of you and what He thinks of you. He wants you to have and retain that exact image of yourself, so you can see who you are and act accordingly.

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

It’s quite enlightening that it doesn’t say that the man who isn’t a doer of the Word forgets “what he looked like.” Rather, it says he forgets “what manner of man he was.” In other words, he forgets the “kind” or “type” of man that he saw. God’s mirror—His Word—doesn’t only show you your appearance, it shows you your “kind” or “species.” God’s Word shows you that you’re in God’s class of being, and the life you have is the God-kind of life. Hallelujah! Your part is to keep looking steadfastly into God’s mirror and not forget what you look like, who you are.

2 Corinthians 3:18 says, “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.” The word “beholding” is translated from the Greek “katanoeō” which means to consider attentively; to fix one’s eyes or mind upon. As you consider attentively and fix your mind on the image of you that you see in God’s Word, you’re transformed into the same image of divine glory, beauty and excellence. Glory to God!

CONFESSION
I’m a new creation, a new species of being that never existed before—dead to the rudiments of the world! I’m constantly transformed into the same image of divine glory, beauty and excellence that I see in the Word. Blessed be God!

FURTHER STUDY
2 Corinthians 5:17
Therefore if any man [be] in Christ, [he is] a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.

James 1:18
Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Timothy 6:1-21 & Jeremiah 15-16

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
John 7:20-31 & 2 Kings 11-12

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

WEDNESDAY 25TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: A FRESH KIND OF A NEW BREED

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

The Greek rendering of the verse above actually reads, “If any man be in Christ, he is a new species of being!” This isn’t just referring to a new life that’s just begun, but also refers to newness in type. This means the one who’s born again is a new type of man, a new species.

You’re not just a fresh one of the same kind; rather, you’re one of a kind that never existed before. You’re a fresh kind of a new breed of man. Hallelujah! The Lord Jesus is the first among this special class of associates of the God-kind. He’s the last Adam, and when you study 1 Corinthians 15:45-49, the Bible lets us know that we all have been born after the similitude of the last Adam (or second man -vs 47).

The Bible says, “...like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life” (Romans 6:4). You received a newness of life and it’s the God-life. This is the summary of the message of who the Christian is. Though your physical body remains the same, your spirit, which is the real you, is born anew with the divine life.

This new life is higher in quality than the human life because it’s eternal life. This new type of man isn’t subject to Satan, neither does he need deliverance from any oppression. He can’t be oppressed! This world hasn’t seen our type before. That’s why they can’t figure out who we really are.

It reminds of what Jesus said in John 3:8 about the one who’s born again: “The wind bloweth where it listeth, and thou hearest the sound thereof, but canst not tell whence it cometh, and whither it goeth: so is every one that is born of the Spirit.” We’re partakers of the divine nature—comrades of the God-kind (2 Peter 1:4); born of God, born with eternal life, to rule and reign in this life. Brace up to this truth and walk in this consciousness.

CONFESSION
I’m a new creature; I have a special kind of life — different in type and quality from the human, animal, or plant life; it is the God-life! I live above the devil and his cohorts and above the rudiments of this world. I’m born of God, born with eternal life, to rule and reign in this life! Glory to God!

FURTHER STUDY:
Romans 6:4
Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

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.

Ephesians 2:10 AMPC
For we are God's [own] handiwork (His workmanship), recreated in Christ Jesus, [born anew] that we may do those good works which God predestined (planned beforehand) for us [taking paths which He prepared ahead of time], that we should walk in them [living the good life which He prearranged and made ready for us to live].

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Timothy 1:1-18 & Jeremiah 17-18

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 7:32-44 & 2 Kings 13-14

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

THURSDAY 26TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: BORN FROM SPIRITUAL DEATH

THEME SCRIPTURE: And he is the head of the body, the church: who is the beginning, THE FIRSTBORN FROM THE DEAD; that in all things he might have the preeminence (Colossians 1:18).

Many misunderstand the underlined phrase above, thinking that it means the first to be raised from the dead. Prior to Jesus’ vicarious death, there were those who had been raised from the dead. So what the Apostle Paul communicates by the Spirit here is different. When our sins were laid on Jesus on the Cross, He died spiritually. Spiritual death is separation from God. Only through a spiritual rebirth does one awake from spiritual death. Jesus Christ was thus the firstborn from spiritual death.

As Jesus hung on the Cross, He suffered the agony of being separated from the Father (Mark 15:34). This was a result of His being made the sin sacrifice, which automatically identified with sin. 2 Corinthians 5:21 says, _*“For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.”

It should have been illegal for Jesus to be crucified and sent to hell, because He was innocent and without sin, but He went in our place. Recall the graphic details in Colossians 2:15 when He engaged Satan in that awful combat in hell and defeated him and all his cohorts of darkness: “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.”

No one ever came out of spiritual death or out of Satan’s bondage, but Jesus did. He paid the full penalty for every man. Thus, because a righteous man was given for sinners, it became legal, and possible, for sinners to be given His righteousness. He took our place of sin, that we might obtain His righteousness.

Now, He has made you the very expression of His righteousness. The righteousness that He was clothed with was made available to you because He died for you, and when He came out of death, you came out in and with Him. Now, like Him, you’ve been born into a newness of life (Romans 6:4). Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Dear Father, I thank you for the vicarious sacrifice of Jesus in my behalf, who became the very representation of sin and died in my place so that I might be made righteous and also become the expression of your righteousness. I walk in and manifest your righteousness, today in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Romans 5:17-19
For if by one man's offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ.) 18 Therefore as by the offence of one [judgment came] upon all men to condemnation; even so by the righteousness of one [the free gift came] upon all men unto justification of life. 19 For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous.

1 Peter 1:3
Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, which according to his abundant mercy hath begotten us again unto a lively hope by the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead,

Romans 6:4
Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Timothy 2:1-26 & Jeremiah 19-22

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 7:45-53 & 2 Kings 15-16

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

FRIDAY 27TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: UNDERSTANDING GOD'S TIMING

THEME SCRIPTURE: Then Jesus said unto them, My time is not yet come: but your time is alway ready (John 7:6).

In the verse above, the Lord Jesus emphasized time consciousness and the significance of divine and prophetic timing. When you look at the prophetic revelation of the things that happened with Jesus, from His birth to His ascension, everything unfolded precisely as the prophets had foretold.

We live in a time-conscious Kingdom even though we belong in a timeless Kingdom. Jesus said, "I’m from above" (John 8:23). He was from eternity, but in dealing with things of this world, He was time conscious. We have to know the time in which we're living, where we are in God's calendar, what we should do, and what we should expect.

The question then is, how do you know God's timing for your life or for the nations? How do you know things that should happen or what we should expect? The answers are in the Scriptures-God's Word! That's the absolute source of Truth.

Through the diligent study of the Word, you can align yourself with God's timing and live a purposeful, meaningful and fulfilling life. For example, did you know that this is God's set time to favour you, and also the nations? The Scriptures let us know we're in His set time of favour. Psalms 102:13 says, "Thou shalt arise, and have mercy upon Zion: for the time to favour her, yea, the set time, is come."

Then in 2 Corinthians 6:2 NKJV, Paul reiterates God's prophetic word to Israel, which is applicable to the nations today: "For He says: In an acceptable time I have heard you, And in the day of salvation I have helped you. Behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation."
This is the day of God's favour, and we have to recognize it and act. It's a day of opportunity, the day of salvation. The Apostle Paul called it the acceptable time. In other words, this is the day in which God accepts men, receives men, and helps men.

The nations are also right now in the day of God's mercy and favour, meaning that we can take advantage of this opportunity and pray for all men and leaders of nations, because if we would pray, God wil answer. Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for the wisdom and guidance I receive from your Word. I have an understanding of the times; I have clarity and understanding of your purpose and timing and I’m walking in sync with the Spirit to fulfil my destiny in Christ, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Ecclesiastes 3:1;
To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

Romans 12:2;
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

Ephesians 5:15-17
See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.

1YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2Timothy 3:1-17 &Jeremiah 23-25

2YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 8:1-11 &2Kings 17-18

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SATURDAY 28TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: AFFIRM THE "DECREE"

THEME SCRIPTURE: To bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron; To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD (Psalm 149:8-9).

We’ve been authorized to take action against the chief spiritual personalities in the kingdom of darkness. Jesus said, "And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils.." (Mark 16:17), and He also asserted in Matthew 18:18, "Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven."

Then He tells us in our theme verse to "...bind their kings with chains, and their nobles with fetters of iron; To execute upon them the judgment written: this honour have all his saints. Praise ye the LORD." In the physical world, when the court has decided the case against a criminal, all that the judge does is read out his written judgment and go his way. But then the police take a copy of that judgment and go into action to execute it; they arrest the fellow and put him behind bars.

Now, in the realm of the spirit, we, the saints of God, are the ones called and authorized to execute the judgment that's been written against principalities and powers, the "kings and nobles of evil." The Bible says, "..this honour have all his saints..." (Psalm 149:9 .) It doesn't say, "some of His saints" or "the apostles and evangelists only" but "ALL His saints." Hallelujah!

How do you execute the judgment that's been written against these rebel holders-of-authority? The Psalmist tells us how; he says, "I wil declare the decree..." (Psalm 2:7 .) You've got to declare the decree! But you need to know what decrees have been issued against these evil spiritual forces that are trying to run rampage in our world today.

One of the decrees says, "That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father" (Philippians 2:10-11). This is a decree of Almighty God! Now, you're the one to enforce this decree in the earth.

You're the one to rule with the Name of Jesus in your world: in your home, your family, your school, your community, your streets, and your country. Give no place to the devil! Rule your world with the Name of Jesus. Glory to God!

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for the power vested in the Name of Jesus and for giving me the power of attorney to use that Name. Now I speak to the demons of evil and darkness that cause chaos and violence in my city and nation, I break your power over the people; I command you to cease from your operations and manoeuvres over them in the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ! Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Job 22:28; Thou shalt also decree a thing, and it shall be established unto thee: and the light shall shine upon thy ways.

Luke 10:17-19 And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name. And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. 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.

1YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Timothy 4:1-22 &Jeremiah 26-28

2YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 8:12-21 &2Kings 19-20

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SUNDAY 29TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: TRUST AND RELY ON GOD ALONE

THEME SCRIPTURE: Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding (Proverbs 3:5).

In a world filled with imperfect human systems, it's crucial to shift our trust from these fallible structures and wholly trust in the Lord. The failures and limitations of human systems serve as reminders to us that our ultimate trust should be in the One who is completely reliable-the LORD!

Some time ago, news aired of a man who was planning to sue his state government for being wrongfully convicted. He endured 37 long years in prison for a crime he never committed. It's truly disheartening to think about it.

There're others who have remained behind bars for crimes they didn't commit as a result of the failure and inadequacies of the system and their government. Humans naturally feel the need to trust and depend on something or someone. We weren't designed to be faithless; we were meant to have faith or to be trusting.

However, because humans are fallible, systems run by individuals are also prone to failure. It makes no difference how lofty or robust you think the systems and structures of your nation or society are; they're still fallible. Trust and rely on God alone. Follow and live by His Word.

Trust the principles, systems, and structures of the Kingdom. The prophet Jeremiah, as inspired by the Spirit, wrote: "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-.

Then in Psalm 37:3, the psalmist said, "Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed." Cultivate absolute reliance on God instead of the frail or flawed human constructs. He never fails. He's righteous and just, faithful and true. Trust Him wholeheartedly

PRAYER
Dear Father, I place my ultimate trust in you and your infallible Word. I lean on your wisdom and understanding and wholy depend on you. Thank you Lord, for granting me the discernment and wisdom to live triumphantly every day and manifest your glory and righteousness, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Psalm 118:8;
It is better to trust in the Lord than to put confidence in man.

Proverbs 3:5-6;
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.

Isaiah 26:4
Trust ye in the Lord for ever: for in the Lord Jehovah is everlasting strength:

1YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Titus 1-2 &Jeremiah 29-30

2YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 8:22-32 &2Kings 21-22

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

MONDAY 30TH OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: THE ESSENCE OF CHRIST IN YOU

THEME SCRIPTURE: If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God. Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth. For ye are dead, and your life is hid with Christ in God (Colossians 3:1-3).

Our opening scripture helps to paint a picture of the life we have now in Christ. It’s the resurrection life. Remember, when He died on the cross, we died with Him. We were buried with Him, and when God raised Him up, we were raised together with Him.

The human life you had when you were born of your parents is dead; you have a new life now—CHRIST! Christ is your life. Hallelujah! The Bible says, “When Christ, who is our life, shall appear, then shall ye also appear with him in glory” (Colossians 3:4). This is mind-blowing. This means you’re not an ordinary person. How could you be sick when Christ is your life? How could anything be wrong with your liver, heart, or kidney when Christ lives in you? How could you fail, be defeated, or act foolishly when you’re powered from within by Christ and guided by His wisdom?

Every so often, boldly declare: “Christ is my life!” Christ in you is a mystery to the world, but it is the essence and glory of the Christian life. The mystery was hidden from ages and generations, but now, it’s been revealed: “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” (Colossians 1:26-27).

The essence of Christ in you is Christ is your life. You’re not subject to the rudiments and limitations of this world; you have the Christ-life, the divine nature. Blessed be God!

CONFESSION
I’m not subject to the rudiments and limitations of this world because l live in Christ and Christ is my life. He’s in every fibre of my being, in every bone of my body, and in every cell of my blood. I reign and rule over circumstances in His Name, shielded from all evil and harm because I’m seated together with Christ in the heavenly realms. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:
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.

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.

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. 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: Titus 3:1-15 & Jeremiah 31-32

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 8:33-43 & 2 Kings 23

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

TUESDAY 31ST OCTOBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: LEARN TO RESPOND TO HIS PROMPTINGS

THEME SCRIPTURE: And the Lord came, and stood, and called as at other times, Samuel, Samuel. Then Samuel answered, Speak; for thy servant hearth (1 Samuel 3:10).

Samuel as a young man was taught by Eli the priest how to respond to God’s voice. God called Samuel by name three different times and on each of those occasions, Samuel thought it was Eli that was calling him and ran to Eli.

From the first time the boy heard his name and ran to Eli, God could have stopped him and said, "Samuel, don't go to Eli, I’m the one calling you." He didn't do that because that's not how He operates. Rather, He let him go and left the responsibility of the training to Eli.

In my early days in the ministry, while still learning these things, I remember saying to the Lord, "But everybody ought to know your voice." His answer was, "No. It's my sheep that know my voice. The lambs follow the bidding of the sheep, because they don't know the voice of the shepherd." How instructive!

Remember, the Lord Jesus said to Peter, "Feed my lambs." He also said, "Feed my sheep." That's because the lambs are different from the sheep; they're "babies" and that's why they have to be taught.

When you study His Word, He talks to you, but you have to respond to Him. For example, when you read the Scriptures; don't just read or quote them; respond! Take Galatians 5:24 as an example; it says, "And they that are Christ's have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts." Don't merely read and quote it; respond by saying: "I am Christ's, I belong to God; therefore, I've crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts; l've overcome the world!" Always respond to God and to His Word; your response is where your blessing is.

PRAYER
Dear Father, your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. I hear and discern your voice. I'm sensitive and attentive to your guidance, promptings and counsels. I respond in faith, and my thoughts, words, and actions are aligned with your will always. I walk in victory continually, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
John 10:27;
My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:

Isaiah 30:21;
And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.

James 1:22
But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.

1YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Philemon 1:1-25 &Jeremiah 3

2YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 8:44-59 & 2Kings 24-25

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 1ST

THEME: “JOINT SITTING” WITH HIM

THEME SCRIPTURE: 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 (Romans 8:17).

In the first chapter of Ephesians, Paul highlights what God accomplished in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His own right hand—in the place of authority—in the heavenly realms. He possesses all power, and He’s glorified (Ephesians 1:20). Hallelujah!

Now, read what the Bible says in Ephesians 2:6: “And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus.” The same God that raised Jesus from the dead and sat Him at His own right hand has raised us up together and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ. This is huge!

The term “sit together” is from the Greek word “sugkathizo”; it implies joint sitting or shared authority. We have joint sitting with Christ. We are where He is, and we have what He has. The authority He possesses is extended to us. Everything Jesus commands is done in our name, and everything we command is done in His Name.

This is all legal. Our “joint sitting” with Christ is not of this earthly realm but heavenly; it has been established from heaven. In Matthew 18:18, the Lord Jesus, before his ascension declared, “Verily I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall bind on earth shall be bound in heaven: and whatsoever ye shall loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven.”

We’re His legal representatives on earth, and what we declare and speak in the earth is endorsed in the heavens. We’re entrusted with the responsibility of manifesting the glory of God in our world and establishing His will in the earth. Confidently exercise your authority in Christ. Enforce God’s will and manifest His Kingdom where you are.

CONFESSION:
Dear Father, thank you for the privilege and blessing to have joint sitting with Christ, and for the authority and responsibility you’ve reposed on the Church to enforce your will in the earth. Even now, your righteousness, excellence, beauty and grace fill the nations, and your Kingdom reigns and rules in men’s hearts, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Ephesians 1:19-23 AMPC
And [so that you can know and understand] what is the immeasurable and unlimited and surpassing greatness of His power in and for us who believe, as demonstrated in the working of His mighty strength,

20 Which He exerted in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His [own] right hand in the heavenly [places],

21 Far above all rule and authority and power and dominion and every name that is named [above every title that can be conferred], not only in this age and in this world, but also in the age and the world which are to come.

22 And He has put all things under His feet and has appointed Him the universal and supreme Head of the church [a headship exercised throughout the church],

23 Which is His body, the fullness of Him Who fills all in all [for in that body lives the full measure of Him Who makes everything complete, and Who fills everything everywhere with Himself].

Colossians 3:1-4
If then you have been raised with Christ [to a new life, thus sharing His resurrection from the dead], aim at and seek the [rich, eternal treasures] that are above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God.

2 And set your minds and keep them set on what is above (the higher things), not on the things that are on the earth.

3 For [as far as this world is concerned] you have died, and your [new, real] life is hidden with Christ in God.

4 When Christ, Who is our life, appears, then you also will appear with Him in [the splendor of His] glory.

Philippians 2:9-11

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

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

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

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Hebrews 1; Jeremiah 34-35

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 9:1-7; 1 Chronicles 1

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

THURSDAY 2ND NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: ETERNAL LIFE IS YOURS-SEIZE IT

THEME SCRIPTURE: 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).

Eternal life is the life and nature of God. It’s the organic and existential attributes of Deity. However, it's not enough for you to know that this life and nature of God is now yours; you have to seize it. That's the thrust of the Spirit's communication through Paul in 1Timothy 6:12. It says, "Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life...."

The Greek rendering of our underlined portion is "epilambanomai." It means to take a hold of something without letting go. In other words, don't just be aware that you have eternal life; seize eternal life; take possession of it. This means to live it like you have it.

Every blessed day, walk in the consciousness that you have the life of God in you. Think, act, and live as one who's filled with eternal life. Every now and then, affirm that you have the divine life. It's incorruptible and can’t be tainted or defiled by sickness, disease, failure, death or the devil.

If as a Christian, you've been sick and praying, "Oh God, please take away this sickness from me." That may not change anything, because He already did when He gave you eternal life. Before God, you're already perfect even though you might be going through trials, pains and difficulties. In His sight, there's nothing wrong with you.

Therefore, align yourself with His thoughts and visions through the Word and declare, "I'm perfected in Christ Jesus; I refuse to accommodate any sickness, disease or pain in my body because I have the life of God in me! I've taken hold of eternal life." You're an associate of the God-kind; live in this consciousness and be who you are in Christ.

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for giving me eternal life and bringing me into a vital union with you. I've taken a hold of eternal life, and this life is working in every fibre of my being. I rejoice that I'm one spirit with you and thus an associate of the God-kind. 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.

1John 5:11-13
And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God.

1YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Hebrews 2&Jeremiah 36-37

2YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 9:8-17 &1Chronicles 2

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

FRIDAY 3RD NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: THINK AND TALK LIKE JESUS

THEME SCRIPTURE: For as the Father hath life in himself; so hath he given to the Son to have life in himself (John 5:26 ).

Nobody ever talked like Jesus. He spoke the most profound and sublime words ever, with such confidence and audacity that beats the natural mind. Think about what we just read! In John 6:38 He said: "For I came down from heaven...." He was unapologetic about His identity and origin, and that's how we ought to be.

1 John 4:17 says, "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." This is how you must think, talk, and live. Be conscious of your divine heritage and identity. 1 John 4:4 says, "Ye are of God, little children..." That means you hail from God.

So, like the Lord Jesus, boldly affirm who you are. In John 8:12, He said, "...I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." Confidently declare the same truth about yourself because He also said in Mathew 5:14 AMPC, "You are the light of the world..." Be conscious of who you are in Christ; be bold to call yourself what God has called you.

Let your consciousness of your divinity control everything about your life. You can live as successfully as Jesus did by following His example and the principles by which He lived. Become conscious of the God-life in you and boldly speak accordingly

CONFESSION
I’m conscious of the life of God in me; therefore, no sickness, disease or infirmity can thrive in my body. The life of Christ is evidently manifested in me, from glory to glory, in the Name of the Lord Jesus. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
John 7:32-45;
The Pharisees heard that the people murmured such things concerning him; and the Pharisees and the chief priests sent officers to take him. Then said Jesus unto them, Yet a little while am I with you, and then I go unto him that sent me. Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me: and where I am, thither ye cannot come. Then said the Jews among themselves, Whither will he go, that we shall not find him? will he go unto the dispersed among the Gentiles, and teach the Gentiles? What manner of saying is this that he said, Ye shall seek me, and shall not find me: and where I am, thither ye cannot come? In the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried, saying, If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake he of the Spirit, which they that believe on him should receive: for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.) Many of the people therefore, when they heard this saying, said, Of a truth this is the Prophet. Others said, This is the Christ. But some said, Shall Christ come out of Galilee? Hath not the scripture said, That Christ cometh of the seed of David, and out of the town of Bethlehem, where David was? So there was a division among the people because of him. And some of them would have taken him; but no man laid hands on him. Then came the officers to the chief priests and Pharisees; and they said unto them, Why have ye not brought him?

Romans 8:11;
But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you.

1John 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.

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Hebrews 3&Jeremiah 38-40

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 9:18-27 &1 Chronicles 3

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SATURDAY 4TH NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: AUTHORITY OVER DEMONS

THEME SCRIPTURE: Resist the devil, and he wil flee from you (James 4:7).

A distressed lady, tormented by evil spirits and trapped in a seemingly hopeless situation was once brought to me. During this encounter, the demons identified themselves by revealing their names, reminiscent of the account in the Bible where Jesus encountered a legion of demons.

I commanded the devils to come out of her in the Name of Jesus, and they did. But just about twenty-four hours later, I received news that this same lady, who was free from this demonic influence, was in trouble again. I immediately called for her to be brought back to me. As soon as I saw her, I discerned that the demons had returned.

Again, I addressed the demons to come out of her. And they did! Praise God! Here's something to understand: although we have authority over demons, we do not have dominion over human beings. People have the will to decide whether to invite these devils back into their lives through their choices and behaviours.

There're instances when, being led by the Spirit, we issue injunctions to restrain specific demons from returning; the demons know they're under orders not to return. Jesus exemplified this when He commanded the unclean spirit to come out of a boy and enter him no more (Mark 9:25). Obviously, the little boy couldn't make decisions for himself, hence Jesus barred the demon.

In the realm of the spirit, you sit with Christ; you occupy His place of authority with the power of attorney to use His Name. All the powers of darkness respond to, and recognize your authority in Christ. Therefore, be bold to exercise this dominion today over demons and circumstances.

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for the authority you've given to me over all demonic forces. I exercise authority over demons and establish your Kingdom in every place and in the hearts of men, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Mark 5:2-13;
And when he was come out of the ship, immediately there met him out of the tombs a man with an unclean spirit, Who had his dwelling among the tombs; and no man could bind him, no, not with chains: Because that he had been often bound with fetters and chains, and the chains had been plucked asunder by him, and the fetters broken in pieces: neither could any man tame him. And always, night and day, he was in the mountains, and in the tombs, crying, and cutting himself with stones. But when he saw Jesus afar off, he ran and worshipped him, And cried with a loud voice, and said, What have I to do with thee, Jesus, thou Son of the most high God? I adjure thee by God, that thou torment me not. For he said unto him, Come out of the man, thou unclean spirit. And he asked him, What is thy name? And he answered, saying, My name is Legion: for we are many. And he besought him much that he would not send them away out of the country. Now there was there nigh unto the mountains a great herd of swine feeding. And all the devils besought him, saying, Send us into the swine, that we may enter into them. And forthwith Jesus gave them leave. And the unclean spirits went out, and entered into the swine: and the herd ran violently down a steep place into the sea, (they were about two thousand and were choked in the sea.

Mark 16:17-18
And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

1YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Hebrews 4:1-13 &Jeremiah 41-43

2YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 9:28-41 &1Chronicles 4

1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Hebrews 3&Jeremiah 38-40

2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 9:18-27 &1 Chronicles 3

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SUNDAY 5TH NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: A FORMAL PROCLAMATION OF HIS DEATH

THEME SCRIPTURE: 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 (John 6:53).

In 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, Paul shares an important revelation he received from the Lord. He recounts the events of the night the Lord Jesus was betrayed, highlighting the profound significance of the Holy Communion. Although John’s account of that night does not explicitly mention the Communion, it provides valuable insights into other significant details.

On that night, Paul narrates: Jesus took bread, gave thanks, broke it, gave it to His disciples and said, “Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you. Do this in remembrance of me.

Similarly, He took the “Cup” after supper, saying, “This cup is the New Testament in my blood. As often as you drink it, do it in remembrance of me.” Through partaking in the Communion, we announce or proclaim the Lord’s death until He comes again: “For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord’s death till he come” (1 Corinthians 11:26).

The word “shew” in the verse above carries a profound meaning. It is translated from the Greek word “kataggello” which goes beyond simply displaying or showing something. It conveys the idea of “declaring” or “announcing.” When we eat the bread and drink the cup, we’re making a formal declaration and proclamation.

The significance of the Communion lies in its connection to the last testament or will of Jesus Christ. The last will of a person before their death holds tremendous importance. Therefore, when we partake of the bread and cup, we’re not only participating in a symbolic act but also declaring and announcing the New Testament—the final will of the Lord.

In that will, Jesus bequeaths His wealth, rights, and privileges to us. He delivered everything to us. That will is now in force. The beauty of it all lies in His resurrection; the resurrection of Jesus ensures that no one can cheat us out of the blessings and provisions of His will. Blessed be God!

PRAYER
Thank you Lord Jesus for your vicarious sacrifice and the New Testament established through your blood. Therefore, I emphasize my victory over Satan, the world and its elements. I have eternal victory and dominion over sin, sickness, disease, death and the devil. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Hebrews 9:15-17
And for this cause he is the mediator of the new testament, that by means of death, for the redemption of the transgressions [that were] under the first testament, they which are called might receive the promise of eternal inheritance. For where a testament [is], there must also of necessity be the death of the testator. For a testament [is] of force after men are dead: otherwise it is of no strength at all while the testator liveth.

1 Corinthians 11:23-26 AMPC
For I received from the Lord Himself that which I passed on to you [it was given to me personally], that the Lord Jesus on the night when He was treacherously delivered up and while His betrayal was in progress took bread, And when He had given thanks, He broke [it] and said, Take, eat. This is My body, which is broken for you. Do this to call Me [affectionately] to remembrance. Similarly when supper was ended, He took the cup also, saying, This cup is the new covenant [ratified and established] in My blood. Do this, as often as you drink [it], to call Me [affectionately] to remembrance. For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are representing and signifying and proclaiming the fact of the Lord's death until He comes [again].

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 4:14- 5:1-10 & Jeremiah 44-47

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 10:1-10 & 1 Chronicles 5

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

MONDAY 6TH NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: LET’S DO MORE

THEME SCRIPTURE: ...unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more (Luke 12:48).

When you study the Book of Acts, and also Church history, you’d observe that the early Church, even though they suffered intense persecution and opposition both from the devil and human adversaries, waxed greater and stronger.

The early Church suffered intense persecution under Roman emperors; they were subjected to cruel tortures. Some were burnt alive and used as human torches. Some were stabbed to death; others were plunged into boiling oil, stoned and clubbed to death. Yet, the apostles and saints of the early Church endured all these and the Church outlived its enemies and detractors.

Remember that the early Church was still in its infancy during the great persecution. But through their prayers and faith, using the Name of Jesus, they eventually subdued Rome. Rome is gone but the Church lives on. They subdued every adversity. The impact of that seemingly “baby” Church was undeniable.

Now think about the fact that the early Church didn’t have the kind of knowledge and revelation of God and the Scriptures as we do today. They didn’t have the expositions of Paul or the beautiful compilations from Peter, John, and the other apostles. Yet, they did great exploits. So we have no excuse. We must do more.

Those who came before us, without the resources that we have today, lived faithfully and triumphantly. If they used the Name of Jesus to raze kings and kingdoms, establish God’s righteousness in the earth, what then is expected of us?

Do you see why you can’t and must not be quiet or complacent about your Christianity? Preach the Gospel boldly, and proclaim the Name of Jesus everywhere. This is your time. Impact your world with the glorious Gospel of the blessed God, which has been committed to your trust. Remember, to whom much is given, much is also required (Luke 12:48).

PRAYER
Dear Father, I’m empowered by your Spirit to do more with the great grace and resources you’ve given me to preach the Gospel. By the power in the Name of Jesus, we, the Church, make a lasting impact and establish your righteousness in the earth. We’re strengthened, ever-victorious, ever-courageous, transforming our world with the glorious Gospel of Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Acts 4:29-31
And now, Lord, behold their threatenings: and grant unto thy servants, that with all boldness they may speak thy word, 30 By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus. And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.

Acts 5:29-32
Then Peter and the [other] apostles answered and said, We ought to obey God rather than men. The God of our fathers raised up Jesus, whom ye slew and hanged on a tree. 31 Him hath God exalted with his right hand [to be] a Prince and a Saviour, for to give repentance to Israel, and forgiveness of sins. 32 And we are his witnesses of these things; and [so is] also the Holy Ghost, whom God hath given to them that obey him.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 5:11-6:1-20 & Jeremiah 48-49

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 10:11-21 & 1 Chronicles 6

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

PASTOR CHRIS

TUESDAY 7TH NOVEMBER

THEME: BROUGHT TO NOUGHT

THEME SCRIPTURE: Since then the children are sharers in flesh and blood, he also himself in like manner partook of the same; that through death he might bring to nought him that had the power of death, that is, the devil (Hebrews 2:14 ASV).

When you bring something to nought, it means you make it useless, bring it to zero, nix, nothing! That’s what Jesus did to the one who had the power of death, that is, the devil. This is something very crucial for every Christian to grasp: the Lord Jesus Christ, through His death, brought Satan to nought; He crushed him!

Paul in Colossians 2:15 reiterates this as he paints for us the picture of how Jesus engaged Satan in that awful combat in hell and defeated him and all the cohorts of darkness: “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.” The Conybeare translation says, “He disarmed the principalities and the powers, which fought against Him….”

The principalities and powers are disarmed, completely rendered powerless; they’re brought to nothing. Hallelujah! In 1 Corinthians 2:6, the Moffatt translation reveals an intriguing truth. It says, “We do discuss ‘wisdom’ with those who are mature; only it is not the wisdom of this world or of the dethroned Powers who rule this world.”

This brings to light the reality that although these powers may hold sway in the earthly realm, they’ve been dethroned in the spiritual realms. Thus, the true power in this world resides in the matchless Name of Jesus.

No wonder the Bible says, “Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth” (Philippians 2:9-10). The authority vested in His Name extends over all things. Every one of us has the privilege to employ that Name and access its inherent power. Use it against Satan, the forces of darkness and challenging circumstances, and they’ll respond to you.

PRAYER
Thank you Father for the privilege to use the most awesome and powerful Name of Jesus to effect changes in my life and in my world, rule and reign over Satan and the principalities of darkness, rejoicing in the triumph and authority of Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Hebrews 2:14 AMPC
Since, therefore, [these His] children share in flesh and blood [in the physical nature of human beings], He [Himself] in a similar manner partook of the same [nature], that by [going through] death He might bring to nought and make of no effect him who had the power of death—that is, the devil—

Luke 10:17-19
And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name. 18 And he said unto them, I beheld Satan as lightning fall from heaven. 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.

1 Corinthians 2:6
Howbeit we speak wisdom among them that are perfect: yet not the wisdom of this world, nor of the princes of this world, that come to nought:

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Hebrews 7 & Jeremiah 50-51

2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
John 10:22-32 & 1 Chronicles 7

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

WEDNESDAY 8TH NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: EVERYTHING GOD MADE CAN HEAR HIS VOICE

THEME SCRIPTURE: And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15).

Isn’t it instructive that the Lord Jesus didn’t say, “Preach the Gospel to human beings only?” Rather, He said, “Preach the Gospel to every creature.” It means you can proclaim God’s Word to anything and everything around you, because everything has intelligence.

Everything God made can hear and recognise His voice. Jesus proved this to be true. He spoke to a tree and it withered from its roots (Mark 11:12-14, 20-21). He spoke to maimed limbs, a withered arm, and even corpses. It brings to mind the sovereign declaration of almighty God in Matthew 17:5 when He said concerning Jesus, “...This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him.”

Everything in heaven, in the earth, and under the earth, living and non-living, have been commanded to hear and obey Jesus. This also extends to us because He’s the head and we are His body. We live in Him—in His Name and in His authority. 1 John 4:17 says as He is, so are we in this world. We’re one with Him. Therefore, everything in life has been commanded to hear and obey us.

Remember the words of Jesus in 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.” You will have it if you say it.

Prophesy and speak the Word to everything around you. Proclaim the Word to your money and the things you own. Put this principle to work and you’ll always have testimonies.

CONFESSION
Lord, I’m fruitful and productive, and my life is excellent. Everything and everyone that’s connected to me experiences the grace of God and are influenced by your righteousness, glory and grace that I bear. Thank you for the glorious life of abundance and dominion that I have in Christ. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Mark 11:12-21
And on the morrow, when they were come from Bethany, he was hungry: And seeing a fig tree afar off having leaves, he came, if haply he might find any thing thereon: and when he came to it, he found nothing but leaves; for the time of figs was not [yet]. And Jesus answered and said unto it, No man eat fruit of thee hereafter for ever. And his disciples heard [it]. And they come to Jerusalem: and Jesus went into the temple, and began to cast out them that sold and bought in the temple, and overthrew the tables of the moneychangers, and the seats of them that sold doves; And would not suffer that any man should carry [any] vessel through the temple. And he taught, saying unto them, Is it not written, My house shall be called of all nations the house of prayer? but ye have made it a den of thieves. And the scribes and chief priests heard [it], and sought how they might destroy him: for they feared him, because all the people was astonished at his doctrine. And when even was come, he went out of the city. And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. And Peter calling to remembrance saith unto him, Master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away.

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

Hebrews 13:5-6
[Let your] conversation [be] without covetousness; [and be] content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee. So that we may boldly say, The Lord [is] my helper, and I will not fear what man shall do unto me.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 8 & Jeremiah 52

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 10:33-42 & 1 Chronicles 8

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

THURSDAY 9TH NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: FAITH ALWAYS WINS

THEME SCRIPTURE: Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses (1 Timothy 6:12).

The Spirit, through the Apostle Paul in Ephesians 6:16, instructs us to use an amazing arsenal of the spirit—faith: “Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked.” Your faith is a shield.

Observe the certainty of the Spirit’s communication: He says with the shield of faith, you shall be able to extinguish ALL the fiery darts of the wicked. So, don’t say, “Lord, the trials became too much and I didn’t know what to do, so I gave up.” No! Don’t quit. Don’t cower. Use your faith. Faith always wins.

It doesn’t matter how or from what direction the devil throws his darts at you; use your shield of faith. The “darts” could create some trouble or pain in your body, stand your ground. Extinguish all the fiery darts of the wicked with your shield of faith. And while at it, remember the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (Ephesians 6:17).

The sword of the Spirit is the Word of God from your lips. It doesn’t matter the debilitating challenges in your life, don’t be quiet. Keep affirming the Word. Just as the Word prevailed in Ephesus (Acts 19:20), it’ll prevail over that predicament. Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Dear Father, I refuse to be discouraged or overwhelmed by the challenges of life; rather, I see them as opportunities to exercise my faith and prove the power in the Word. My faith is the victory that overcomes the world. I neutralize, quench, put out, and extinguish the fiery dart of the adversary. The Word of God on my lips prevails in my life, family, city, and nation, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
1 Timothy 6:12
Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

2 Timothy 4:7
I have fought a good fight, I have finished [my] course, I have kept the faith:

Acts 19:20
So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.

Acts 20:24
But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 9:1-10 & Lamentations 1-2

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 11:1-13 & 1 Chronicles 9

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

FRIDAY 10TH NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: CHRIST IN YOU IS ALL THE POWER YOU NEED

THEME SCRIPTURE: Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us (Ephesians 3:20).

The Apostle Paul, by the Spirit, reveals the limitless power available to us. In Colossians 1:27, he tells us, “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.” Christ in you is all the power you need. Glory to God!

I want you to observe something in the opening text again: “...according to the power that WORKETH IN US.” Then, 2 Corinthians 4:7 says, “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.” The power is in you. Christ is in you. Christ in you is all the power you need for any change or transformation you desire in any area of your life.

If you’re a Pastor, for example, and you desire a transformation in your church, and to operate at higher levels of ministry, the power to make it happen is within you. The Bible says out of your heart shall flow rivers of living water (John 7:38).

Life issues from your heart (Proverbs 4:23); all the prosperity, blessings and abundance you could ever imagine, require or desire are in your heart. How do you activate that power to work for you? It’s by consciously meditating on the Word and speaking in tongues.

You can bring that power to bear today on anything or any area of your life. It brings to mind the words of the Master in Matthew 17:20: “...nothing shall be impossible unto you.” You can do anything, be anything, and get anything. Read the Apostle Paul’s inspiring words in Philippians 4:13 AMPC, “I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [l am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency].” Amen.

PRAYER
Dear Father, I thank you for your power and ability that’s at work within me, causing me to do exploits and walk in the supernatural. Thank you for your limitless resources domiciled in my spirit. Your power is fully activated and operational in me, transforming my life, work, family and ministry, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Colossians 1:27
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:

Romans 8:10-11 ESV
But if Christ is in you, although the body is dead because of sin, the Spirit is life because of righteousness. 11 If the Spirit of him who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, he who raised Christ Jesus from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies through his Spirit who dwells in you.

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: Hebrews 9:11-28 & Lamentations 3-5

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 11:14-23 & 1 Chronicles 10

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SATURDAY 11TH NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: THE GLORY IN US

THEME SCRIPTURE: 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 (Colossians 1:27).

Observe the powerful construction in the verse above; it says, “Christ in you, the hope of glory.” It doesn’t say, “Christ with you” or “Christ from Heaven”; rather, it says, “Christ in you.” This is the mystery—a revelation that remains consistent throughout Scriptures.

In the book of Genesis, we read of God’s voice walking in the garden in the cool of the day, as Adam and Eve heard His voice (Genesis 3:8 ). At various times, God appeared to individuals like Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Whenever He revealed Himself, they built altars as symbols of the places where they met with Him.

However, such encounters were occasional; they were not in constant fellowship with Him. But God had a new plan. He revealed Himself to Moses and introduced His Name as Jehovah—the Lord in the camp—God among His people. He instructed Moses to build a tent, where He would meet with them. The glory of the Lord entered the Tabernacle, and Moses communed with God there.

As they journeyed, the tabernacle was carried with them, symbolizing the presence of the Lord. Later, David desired to build a permanent house for God, but God gave the plans to Solomon, David’s son. Solomon constructed the magnificent temple, and when it was completed, God filled it with His glory (2 Chronicles 7:1-3).

But thanks be unto God; today, a greater glory than what was manifested in the temple of Solomon, a greater glory than the one Moses saw on the mountain in the presence of God resides in us. Hallelujah! The Holy Spirit who manifested as the pillar of cloud by day and the pillar of fire by night, now dwells within us. O, how glorious we have become!

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for your amazing presence in the quarters of my heart. Christ in me, the hope of glory! I’ve been granted the grace and ability in Christ to reign and rule over all circumstances. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Christ in me is my assurance of a life of continuous victory and unending success. Blessed be God!

FURTHER STUDY:
2 Corinthians 3:7-18
But if the ministration of death, written [and] engraven in stones, was glorious, so that the children of Israel could not stedfastly behold the face of Moses for the glory of his countenance; which [glory] was to be done away: 8 How shall not the ministration of the spirit be rather glorious? 9 For if the ministration of condemnation [be] glory, much more doth the ministration of righteousness exceed in glory. 10 For even that which was made glorious had no glory in this respect, by reason of the glory that excelleth. 11 For if that which is done away [was] glorious, much more that which remaineth [is] glorious. 12 Seeing then that we have such hope, we use great plainness of speech: 13 And not as Moses, [which] put a vail over his face, that the children of Israel could not stedfastly look to the end of that which is abolished: 14 But their minds were blinded: for until this day remaineth the same vail untaken away in the reading of the old testament; which [vail] is done away in Christ. 15 But even unto this day, when Moses is read, the vail is upon their heart. 16 Nevertheless when it shall turn to the Lord, the vail shall be taken away. 17 Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord [is], there [is] liberty. 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. *||*

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: Hebrews 10:1-18 & Ezekiel 1-2

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 11:24-34 & 1 Chronicles 11

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SUNDAY 12TH NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: EXALTED WITH HIM IN GLORY

THEME SCRIPTURE: But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us... hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:4-6).

To be seated with Christ in the heavenly realms means you’ve been exalted to the highest position of authority, dominion and power. Ephesians 1:21 gives further insight into your exalted position in Christ. It describes where you are as, “Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named....” How profound this is!

The Lord Jesus has been set far above all the different classes of spiritual beings—principalities, powers, might or thrones, dominions and every name that is named—and you’re in Him. The Father set Him in this high place of glory, placed all things under His feet, and legally declared Him to be the head over all things for the benefit of the Church (Ephesians 1:22-23).

The Church is His body; therefore, you’re elevated with Him in glory. Someone might say, “Isn’t that going too far? Should we really think so highly of ourselves?” Emphatically yes! We didn’t ask for it; it’s the result of His grace and love. Read our opening scripture again.

What the Bible says is that you shouldn’t think of yourself more highly than you ought to think (Romans 12:3). God wants you think highly of yourself but not more highly than you ought to think. In other words, don’t think you’re higher than your fellow brothers or sisters in Christ, because we’re all together in this exalted place in Christ. We’re all equal, and valuable to God. We’re chosen, royal and peculiar.

See how Paul describes it in Ephesians 2:6 AMPC: “And He raised us together with Him and made us sit down together [giving us joint seating with Him] in the heavenly sphere (by virtue of our being] in Christ Jesus (the Messiah, the Anointed One).” Hallelujah! How could you read this and not think highly of yourself? You’re exalted with Him in glory; it’s a joint sitting in the heavenly sphere.

CONFESSION
I’m seated with Christ, far above all principality, power, might, dominion and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come! I’m exalted with Him in glory; I know who I am: chosen, royal and peculiar!

FURTHER STUDY:
Ephesians 2:5-6* Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved 6 And hath raised [us] up together, and made [us] sit together in heavenly [places] in Christ Jesus:

Galatians 3:28
There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus.

Romans 12:4-5
For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office: 5 So we, [being] many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan=>*Hebrews 10:19-39 & Ezekiel 3-4

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 11:35-46 & 1 Chronicles 12

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

MONDAY 13TH NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: ALWAYS EXERCISE YOUR FAITH

THEME SCRIPTURE:...God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith (Romans 12:3).

Observe what our opening verse says: God has given to every man the measure of faith. He’s already done it. Each one of us was given the same measure of faith when we received the Gospel.

According to the Lord Jesus, with the smallest ounce of faith, you can do the impossible: “...verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you” (Matthew 17:20). But what is faith? How does the Bible define faith?

The answer is in Hebrews 11:1. It says, “Now faith is the assurance (the confirmation, the title deed) of the things [we] hope for, being the proof of things [we] do not see...” (AMPC). How does faith come? It’s through the Word: “So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).

The Lord doesn’t want you to remain at the level of small faith; He wants your faith to grow and be strong. Romans 10:17 tells us that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. The emphasis is on “hearing,” that is, the continued bombardment of your spirit with the Word of God. But the way to build your faith strong and make it effective is by exercising it, that is, acting on the Word.

Your faith will be weak if you don’t exercise it. Weak faith causes people to stagger, and as a result, fear grips them and they’re defeated by the crisis of life. However, the cure for weak faith is putting the Word to work, acting on the Word.

The Bible says about Abraham, “He staggered not at the promise of God through unbelief; but was strong in faith, giving glory to God” (Romans 4:20). Build your faith strong by using it even in the seemingly small or simple matters of life. Exercise your faith all the time. Act on the Word, and build your faith strong.

PRAYER
Dear Father, I thank you for your Word that builds my faith and causes me to see the invisible and do the impossible. By faith in the Word, I consciously take advantage of my inheritance in Christ, walking in the fullness of the blessings of the Gospel, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Hebrews 11:1-3
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. For by it the elders obtained a good report. Through faith we understand that the worlds were framed by the word of God, so that things which are seen were not made of things which do appear.

Hebrews 11:6
But without faith [it is] impossible to please [him]: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and [that] he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.

Hebrews 10:38-39
Now the just shall live by faith: but if [any man] draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 11:1-16 & Ezekiel 5-7

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 11:47-57 & 1 Chronicles 13

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

TUESDAY 14TH NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: A CUE FROM SHADRACH, MESHACH AND ABEDNEGO

THEME SCRIPTURE: ...O Nebuchadnezzar...our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver us out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up (Daniel 3:16-18).

Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were threatened by the government of the day to bow down to the king’s golden image or burn in the fiery furnace. They refused to compromise, choosing rather to die than to cower. Their inspiring statement of conviction and absolute commitment to the Lord is what we read in our theme scripture.

Their unwavering faith in God infuriated the king who ordered that they be thrown into the fiery furnace. The fire was so intense that it burnt and killed the men that threw them in. Howbeit, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were unscathed. The Lord protected them.

When Nebuchadnezzar noticed they were unhurt by the blazing furnace, he repented and declared, “...Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him...Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort” (Daniel 3:28-29).

That’s what happens when you stand your ground in faith, in spite of fierce and daunting opposition. Soon enough, your detractors will be inspired by your faith and convictions, which could lead to their salvation. So, serve God with your life.

Your job may be taken away from you for preaching the Gospel, but they can’t take away the joy of the Lord that’s in your spirit. They may liquidate your company, but they can’t liquidate your spirit. God is able! Trust Him. Never find yourself apologetic, intimidated, or reluctant to express your convictions about Christ and the message of the Gospel. He’s greater than any government, institution or power. He’s the Monarch of the universe.

Therefore, stand your ground for Him in faith. Take a cue from Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego.

CONFESSION
The Word of God is in my spirit so strong; it’s as fire shut up in my bones and nothing can hinder the affirmation of my faith and my proclamation of the Gospel of Christ. I’m strengthened and energized by the Holy Spirit who lives in me, and He’s made me an absolute victor. Blessed be God!

FURTHER STUDY:
Daniel 3:16-30
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, answered and said to the king, O Nebuchadnezzar, we [are] not careful to answer thee in this matter. If it be [so], our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and he will deliver [us] out of thine hand, O king. But if not, be it known unto thee, O king, that we will not serve thy gods, nor worship the golden image which thou hast set up. Then was Nebuchadnezzar full of fury, and the form of his visage was changed against Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego: [therefore] he spake, and commanded that they should heat the furnace one seven times more than it was wont to be heated. And he commanded the most mighty men that [were] in his army to bind Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, [and] to cast [them] into the burning fiery furnace. Then these men were bound in their coats, their hosen, and their hats, and their [other] garments, and were cast into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. Therefore because the king's commandment was urgent, and the furnace exceeding hot, the flame of the fire slew those men that took up Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego. And these three men, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, fell down bound into the midst of the burning fiery furnace. Then Nebuchadnezzar the king was astonied, and rose up in haste, [and] spake, and said unto his counsellors, Did not we cast three men bound into the midst of the fire? They answered and said unto the king, True, O king. He answered and said, Lo, I see four men loose, walking in the midst of the fire, and they have no hurt; and the form of the fourth is like the Son of God. Then Nebuchadnezzar came near to the mouth of the burning fiery furnace, [and] spake, and said, Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, ye servants of the most high God, come forth, and come [hither]. Then Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, came forth of the midst of the fire. And the princes, governors, and captains, and the king's counsellors, being gathered together, saw these men, upon whose bodies the fire had no power, nor was an hair of their head singed, neither were their coats changed, nor the smell of fire had passed on them. [Then] Nebuchadnezzar spake, and said, Blessed [be] the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who hath sent his angel, and delivered his servants that trusted in him, and have changed the king's word, and yielded their bodies, that they might not serve nor worship any god, except their own God. Therefore I make a decree, That every people, nation, and language, which speak any thing amiss against the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, shall be cut in pieces, and their houses shall be made a dunghill: because there is no other God that can deliver after this sort. Then the king promoted Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, in the province of Babylon.

Psalm 91:2-11
I will say of the LORD, [He is] my refuge and my fortress: my God; in him will I trust. Surely he shall deliver thee from the snare of the fowler, [and] from the noisome pestilence. He shall cover thee with his feathers, and under his wings shalt thou trust: his truth [shall be thy] shield and buckler. Thou shalt not be afraid for the terror by night; [nor] for the arrow [that] flieth by day; [Nor] for the pestilence [that] walketh in darkness; [nor] for the destruction [that] wasteth at noonday. A thousand shall fall at thy side, and ten thousand at thy right hand; [but] it shall not come nigh thee. Only with thine eyes shalt thou behold and see the reward of the wicked. Because thou hast made the LORD, [which is] my refuge, [even] the most High, thy habitation; There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling. For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 11:17-40 & Ezekiel 8-10

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 12:1-11 & 1 Chronicles 14

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

WEDNESDAY 15TH NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: YOUR LABOUR IS NOT IN VAIN

THEME SCRIPTURE: For God is not unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love, which ye have shewed toward his name, in that ye have ministered to the saints, and do minister (Hebrews 6:10).

The Bible says in Proverbs 14:23 that there’s profit in all labour. Everything you do or sacrifice for the sake of the Gospel is recorded (Malachi 3:16), and the Lord also rewards you for it. This gave me immense joy decades ago when the Lord showed me that He’s not unrighteous to forget my work or labour of love.

I had been told I was wasting my time and my life for preaching the Gospel and holding crusades in remote villages. But then I saw our opening verse and wept for joy. I praised, screamed, and worshipped the Lord.

There’re times you’re about the Lord’s work and there seem to be persecutions from all angles. And it’s as though you’re wasting your time and wasting your life; at such times, always remember that God isn’t unrighteous to forget your work and labour of love.

He’ll reward you for all that you do and have done in the propagation of the Gospel. He’ll reward you for all your prayers for souls to be saved, your financial contributions to the spread of the Gospel, your personal evangelical efforts to win souls to Christ, and all your sacrifices.

Remember the words of Jesus: “...Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel’s, But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life” (Mark 10:29-30). Your blessing isn’t deferred until you get to heaven; it begins here on earth.

Whatever you’re doing for the Lord, keep at it. Keep spreading His Word. Keep spreading His righteousness. Keep impacting your world with His glory. Remain steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord (1 Corinthians 15:58).

PRAYER
Dear Father, my heart is filled with joy to know that my labour and sacrifices in and for the Kingdom are not in vain! I remain steadfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that there’s a great reward for my labour in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Revelation 22:12
And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward [is] with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.

Colossians 3:23-24
And whatsoever ye do, do [it] heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.

Isaiah 40:10
Behold, the Lord GOD will come with strong [hand], and his arm shall rule for him: behold, his reward [is] with him, and his work before him.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 12:1-13 & Ezekiel 11-12

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 12:12-19 & 1 Chronicles 15

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 16TH

THEME: SET YOUR FOCUS ON THE WORD

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

Did you notice that the Bible doesn’t tell you to build yourself with the Word; it says the Word will build you. So, all you have to do is digest the Word; have it inside you so that you can talk it and live it. The Bible says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly...” (Colossians 3:16).

Not only is the Word able to build you up, it’s able to give you an inheritance. Maybe your friend got a large inheritance from his grandfather that made him rich, but you didn’t quite get anything from yours; it makes no difference. Your inheritance in Christ supersedes and outclasses any inheritance you could ever get in this world.

As an heir of God and a joint-heir with Christ, you’re the inheritor of everything God owns, which includes the whole world. Psalm 24:1 says, “The earth is the LORD’S, and the fulness thereof; the world, and they that dwell therein.” In Haggai 2:8, He said, “The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, saith the LORD of hosts.”

Also, read Psalm 50:10-12; the Lord said, “For every beast of the forest is mine, and the cattle upon a thousand hills. I know all the fowls of the mountains: and the wild beasts of the field are mine...for the world is mine, and the fulness thereof.” This should give you an idea of your inheritance in Christ.

The inheritance was given to you in Christ Jesus the moment you were born again. You were given all things that pertain to life and godliness. But Satan, being a rebel, may try to cheat you out of God’s best. Stand your ground and keep your focus on the Word of God. Every so often, declare, “I’m what God says I am, and I have what God says I have. The whole world is mine. Glory to God!”

PRAYER
Dear Father, your Word is my guide, my strength and my inheritance. I grow and flourish in every area of my life; I’m built up and strengthened by the Word. Thank you for the power and glory of your Word in my life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY
Deuteronomy 32:46-47 And he said unto them, Set your hearts unto all the words which I testify among you this day, which ye shall command your children to observe to do, all the words of this law. 47 For it [is] not a vain thing for you; because it [is] your life: and through this thing ye shall prolong [your] days in the land, whither ye go over Jordan to possess it.

1 Peter 1:23 Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth for ever.

Hebrews 4:12 For the word of God [is] quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and [is] a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart.

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 12:14-29 & Ezekiel 13-15

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 12:20-29 & 1 Chronicles 16

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

FRIDAY 17TH NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: ASK, SEEK, KNOCK

THEME SCRIPTURE: Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you (Matthew 7:7).

In our opening verse, the Lord tells us to do three things: To ask, seek, and knock. This seems to suggest a difference between the three of them. When you study the Bible, you’ll clearly see the difference.

Jesus said, “For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened” (Matthew 7:. When you ask, it’s either you’re asking God or you’re making a demand on the basis of your faith. Like when the Lord says, “Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession” (Psalm 2:. He says when you ask, you’ll receive.

In seeking, you’re not asking anybody; you’re actually in pursuit of something. For instance, you may be seeking knowledge or information on a subject matter. You may even be seeking opportunities in a certain industry. He says, “seek, and ye shall find.” Seek, and you’ll get it.

Imagine that you asked the Lord for your community and He gave it to you. Even though you’ve received it in your spirit, you still have to go out as an act of faith to get it. That’s what the Master did: “For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost”*_ (Luke 19:10). As you go out and take your steps by faith, you’ll find what you’re looking for.

“Knock” teaches importunity in prayer. Jesus gave an example of a certain man who had a friend come to him at midnight. He didn’t have bread to give him, so he went to knock on another friend’s door to ask for bread. His friend refused to get up because he and his family had already gone to bed, but the man didn’t stop knocking.

Then, Jesus said, “I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth” (Luke 11:. Jesus used these three to teach His disciples never to give up, and that faith works.

PRAYER
Dear Father, I’m grateful to know that all the provisions necessary for a fulfilling life and a godly existence have already been made accessible to me through Christ. Therefore, I take advantage of the open invitation to ask anything in the Name of Jesus and receive answers. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Matthew 21:22
And all things, whatsoever ye shall ask in prayer, believing, ye shall receive.

Jeremiah 29:13
And ye shall seek me, and find [me], when ye shall search for me with all your heart.

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

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 13 & Ezekiel 16

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 12:30-41 & 1 Chronicles 17

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DAILY DEVOTIONAL

SATURDAY 18TH NOVEMBER 2023. Pastor Chris

THEME: TONGUES OF PRAISE AND INTERCESSION

THEME SCRIPTURE: For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries (1 Corinthians 14:2)

Recall the account in Acts 10 of Peter ministering in the house of Cornelius. The Bible says…. While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell on all who were listening to the message. And the believers from among the circumcised [the Jews] who came with Peter were surprised and amazed, because the free gift of the Holy Spirit had been bestowed and poured out largely even on the Gentiles. For they heard them talking in [unknown] tongues (languages) and extolling and magnifying God… (Acts 10:44-46 AMPC)

Notice the latter part; the people were praising— extolling and magnifying God—as they spoke in other tongues. When you praise the Lord from your spirit like that, His glory will be manifested in your behalf. Acts 16:25 says Paul and Silas, in prison, prayed and sang praises unto God and as they did, there was a miracle in the prison; they were supernaturally released.

Furthermore, while you're praying in other tongues, besides praise or prophetic revelation, some of those tongues could also be coming forth through your spirit as intercession. This means that at such moments, in the spirit, you're praying for someone or some group; it could be your country, your city, or the Church.

Oftentimes, it could go from speaking in tongues into deep sighs and groanings, and you can't explain it, except the Holy Spirit interprets to you in your understanding what the prayer is about.
These and more could happen as you pray in tongues. Glory to God!

PRAYER
Dear Father, I extol your majesty, for you alone are deserving of all adoration. Your grace knows no bounds, and your mercy knows no end. Your love is immeasurable, and your loving- kindness surpasses understanding. Thank you Lord for your peace, progress and prosperity reign in the nations of the world, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
1Corinthians 14:2-4;
For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort. He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church.

1Corinthians 14:14-15
For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful. What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.

1YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: James 1&Ezekiel 17-19

2YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 12:42-50 &1Chronicles 18