2015 MFDL

As the tenor of our governor in Delta state was coming to an end, he came out with a slogan. “Finishing strong” He matched his words with action thus we began to seedifferent projects being executed in order to give the state a newface. Wherever such projects are going on the people spokewell of him. Finishing strong is to finish well. Some actuallystarted poorly and people regretted having them as leaders,however, hey had the grace of turning a new leaf hence the endwas better than the beginning. The scripture says; “The end of amatter is better than its beginning” (Exc. 7:8).For those who may also be approaching the end of whatevertask committed to them, this is a call to check whether you arefinishing well even if the beginning was not encouraging. Thestory of King Asa challenges us to examine ourselves whetherwe have bargained to finish well. If we are willing to finish well,God will not deny us his grace to finish well. Asa started well,but he eventually turned against God who had established him.KingAsa became angry with the prophet who told him the truth.Instead of repentance, he threw the prophet into prison. Hebecame brutal with his subjects. In his apostasy, he never soughtthe face of God even when he was sick. Let us examineourselves whether we have lost out with the people. It ispossible that you are already losing favour with God. Before itis too late, please mend the wall now.PRAYERLord Jesus Christ, you finished well grant us grace to finish wellin loving you daily. 143

As Christians we all have our different task given to us by the Lord of the church to accomplish. This is why finishing well must be taken seriously lest we run this racein vain. The challenge in our passage with regard to finishing wellis the ability to give a good account of our stewardship when thetime has come to take up a new assignment or better still, be postedelse where. For some when they left, the structure they built wasable to withstand the test of time, hence future generation wereable to improve on what they did and they were able to build on it.For some persons, when they left, that was the end and the lightwent out. They were unable to reproduce themselves and theycould not put down any structure for the coming generation tobuild upon. We can as well ask ourselves whether we aremaintaining the godly foundations bequeathed to us or bynegligence, we are busy destroying them'.Apostle Paul had toiled in Ephesus and it was time to depart. Hedecided to assemble the elders of the church in order to giveaccount of his stewardship and to properly commit the work totheir hands. Paul understood his calling- “testifying to the gospelof God's grace”. He admitted to preaching and teaching them nightand day without hesitation. This is an example of finishing wellinspite of all the odds he was confronted with.Jewish and Greek, hindrances not withstanding, imprisonmentand hardship that were beckoning he said; I consider my life worthnothing to me.PRAYERLord Jesus, hardship and persecution have driven many, help usto remain faithful. 144

Whatever task the Lord has committed to your charge, do it wholeheartedly there is a reward ahead of you. We are in an age where there seems to be noencouragement forthcoming. The church today is packed-full ofpeople who lack appreciation and commendation. More so if youfail to do it in their own way or to glorify them. A lot of peoplehave given up, if you are one of them, that is not how to finishwell. Remember, those responsible for your action are not theone who called you. It may be a difficult thing to return to yourGod-given assignment but you have no choice but to return.Apostle Paul for three years did his work conscientiously. Hisdesire to finish well made him to assemble the elders and in theirpresence he declared, I am innocent of the blood of all men. If hehad not finished well, he would not have had the courage to say itto the face of the people. This singular action of Paul reminds usthat, much as we are accountable to God, we are also accountableto the people we serve in whatever capacity. It is a clarion callboth to leaders and the followers. The need to finish well cannotbe ignored by any of us.To finish well is to lay a good foundation for the cominggeneration. To finish well is to secure our future, to finish well isto inspire hope in our people, to finish well is to have peace ofmind and above all to finish well is to receive the mastercommendation; “Well done, good and faithful servant”.PRAYERAlmighty Father, give us grace to finish well as being able toreceive your commendation. 145

From the concluding message of Paul to the elders of the church in Ephesus, it is glaring that finishing well entails a lot of accountability in every area of the ministry. Theburden of finishing well hangs on the neck of this generation be itin politics, church, social or in any other way we can think of.2015 is a transition year from one government to another or thebeginning of a new government. For those who have completedtheir tenure, can they boldly say they have finished well? What ofthose going for second tenure, can their previous work justifyanother tenure? The new arrival, your desire must be to finish wellas you learn from the mistakes of others.Change of barton is also happening in the church, can they saythey have finished well? While some would finish well, it isobvious for some that it was a wasted opportunity. As we preparefor another opportunity, we should not forget this issue offinishing well.Paul finished well when he committed the church to the word ofgrace by pointing them to the inheritance that lies ahead. Whilelabouring among them, he never coveted what belongs to thepeople. What do we see of Christians today especially churchleaders are we not coveting the riches of members and aspiring tobe like them? Paul worked to meet his own needs and taught thepeople to give. He reminded them of what our Lord said, “It ismore blessed to give than to receive”. Finishing well is a must forus all.PRAYERAlmighty Father, help me to internalize this message in Jesusname. 146

As we tried to conclude this issue, the Lord impressed on us to dwell more on it. The Lord clearly said that many have this problem of finishing well. He is willing to use thismedium to help those who would have made shipwreck of theircalling to bring them back to the path of grace.Beloved take time to examine yourself in this matter, not only that,take a look at some brethren around you and do a little assessmentwhether they are likely going to finish well. This meditation is tohelp us look inwards. While addressing this issue of finishingwell, Paul alluded to their fore fathers who left Egypt with Canaanin view. All except two did not finish well; they all perished in thewilderness.It was a colossal waste in God's economy of salvation. Thanks beto God because the remnants that survived became witnesses to allthat befell their parents.All of them that left Egypt benefitted from the abundant gracesthat were made available. Grace of baptism, Grace of spiritualfood, grace of spiritual drink of protection and provision, ofrenewal and refreshment and many others. This grace was toenable them finish well but unfortunately, they wasted it. Theapostle therefore admonished us that, these things happened asexamples to us and for our learning. Whoever goes to hell shouldblame his/herself because the same grace has appeared to us all,what we do with it is our own kettle of fish finishing well is anissue that should not be compromised.PRAYERThank you Lord for the cloud of witnesses that surrounds us. Maywe appropriate them accordingly. 147

Finishing well became a very big challenge to the forty years of ministry of Moses the servant God. His expectation was to lead the children of Israel to the Promised Land and toalso enjoy the land but this was not to be. Finishing well is a call tobe cautious and be more careful with every aspect of the ministry.God will not lower the standard; his discipline will not becompromised. Holiness unto the Lord is a necessity in all things.The bedrock of holiness unto the Lord is obedience to His wordcome what may.At Meribah Kadesh, the Lord said to Moses; “speak to that rockbefore their eyes and it will pour out its water” That was theexpress command to Moses, however, Moses said to the people,“Listen, you rebels must we bring you water out of this rock?Then Moses raised his arm and struck the rock twice with hisstaff, water gushed out …” (Num. 20:8 11). Indeed water cameout, but Moses did it in his own way. Doing it in his own way wasgoing to lead to commotion in the Godhead, thus finishing wellbecame a problem. God has not called us to a disobedient life but alife of obedience that will exhibit his holiness among His people.Moses had reasons to be angry with the people but he failed torealize that his anger cannot in any way reveal the righteousness ofGod. As Paul admonished us yesterday, all these serve as examplesto us so that we can be more careful in handling the things of God.Unlike Moses, we should strive in the power of the Holy Spirit notonly to see heaven but to dwell with our Saviour in eternity.PRAYERO Lord, moderate my temperament and action as to reflect yourholiness in everything I do. 148

Joshua the servant of Moses, took over the reins of leadership from Moses. From what was recorded for us, Joshua had the rare privilege of finishing well. Two reasons may beadvanced that helped him to finish well. Firstly Joshua took todivine counsel. God told him the secret of success in Josh 1:8,“Do not let this book of the law depart from your mouth,mediate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to doeverything written in it. Then you will be prosperous andsuccessful”. Secondly, Joshua learnt from the experience of hismaster. Joshua decided not to repeat all that Moses went throughwhile he was managing the people described as stiff-neckedpeople Joshua decided on how to bring them to the PromisedLand instead of allowing them to stop him. He was able to do thisbecause he allowed the word of God to dwell in him.Joshua left a legacy behind, that we should look beyond theattitude of our people in order to be able to deliver them at thefeet of Jesus. This is why Joshua ended his tenor with a homily ascontained in the passage. Their hearts were broken, convictedand convinced and they resolved to serve the Lord. For Joshua,he was leaving behind a people whose resolve is to serve theLord. This resolution was sealed with a large stone, set up underthe oak near the holy place of the Lord as a memorial, symboland an icon reminding them of their resolve. As many of ushoping to finish well should adopt this style of Joshua, evenwhen we have long departed, there is a reminder.PRAYERLord Jesus, help me to leave behind a legacy of faith as Ifinish every assignment. 149

The parable before us was a response of Jesus Christ to the surprise that was expressed by one of those sitting at the table recycling with him. The man had said,“Blessed is the man who will eat at the feast in the kingdomof God” in response to the admonition of Christ that we shouldinvite those who cannot repay us for the good done to them.The surprise of the man was rooted out of the conviction thatwhat Jesus said is absolutely impossible but Jesus had toldthem the reality of the kingdom. What we read of the days ofJesus was also experienced in our days.Take a look at the way parties are organized and invitation tosuch occasions. In some, you would be told that, it is onlythose who have received invitation. It is also true that mosttimes it is only those we know. Sometimes it is a time to payback or we hope to get something. This is contrary to kingdomlife. Please read Luke 14:12 13, you will understand what ourLord is saying.For many of us it is pretty difficult to do what the master hassaid, but that is the kingdom life for those who will continue tofeast in the kingdom of God which is already in place. This iswhy we must begin to adopt the kingdom life. Jesus Christ issaying clearly to us that the kingdom is hot for a selected classof people but for all who would open their hearts to receive it.PRAYERLord Jesus Christ, grant us the humility of heart to acceptthe kingdom life. 150

Kingdom party is for all and sundry and not for a selected people. This is Jesus' agenda for mankind. We who says we are his followers must imbibe his vision. What we seeof Christians of today is a different kettle of fish. We can dare sayour Christianity seem to have lost touch with Christ Jesus, it isobvious that we are doing our own thing as it were in the days ofJesus. Just as Jesus redefined what the people were doing, sothrough this meditation is appealing to us to imbibe his teachingtoday for us to practice authentic Christianity and not a syntheticone.Kingdom life has no room for excuses God takes the prime placein all things. The Great banquet is the kingdom of God to whichmany have been invited but because of blindness of heart, menvalue mundane things over and above things of eternal value. Ifnot, why should 'Christians' be comfortable at home, offices orbusiness places why services or fellowship are going on? Forevery service or church gathering that is going on, it is aninvitation to the kingdom.According to the parable, those invited had reasons to excusethemselves. When you critically examine their excuses, it isnothing short of blindness of the heart. Honouring the occasionstill gives room to attend to those things. This is the trick of thedevil. You can't give room to it again put away that excuse today.PRAYERDear Father, by the power of the Holy Spirit may we understandSatan tricks. 151

The parable of the Great banquet clearly shows that those of us in the church now were not the original invitees to the kingdom. What a great privilege that every child of Godmust cherish and value. We must be ready to appreciate God withour entire life on daily basis for this great grace bestowed on us.This is the reason behind the humility that is demanded of us aswe serve the Lord with fear and trembling. Too many of us inchurch behave as if we deserve this wonderful privilege. “A mancan receive only what is given him from heaven” (John 3:27).What you are or you possessed in church is a privilege that mustbe appreciated in humility.The master said to them, go out quickly into the streets to bring theless-privileged, the poor, the crippled, the blind and the lame. Thepoor are those who realized that spiritually, they are poor and theyare willingly to be enriched spiritually, this should be our heartdesire and cry on daily basis. This is because we are powerless(Crippled) not able to help ourselves occasioned by our blindness,hence we cannot see.Thus on our own, we do not know what we need, it is only inChrist we can see clearly. Our inability to see rendered usincapacitated hence we need Jesus Christ who gives new life.This is the reason for the invitation to the great banquet that hasbegun with the church. The consummation is his second coming.Have you truly honoured his invitation?PRAYERAlmighty Father, thank you for the invitation in Christ Jesus.May we truly honour you 152

Immediately following the parable of the Great Banquet was the cost of being a disciple. The implication of this is that your desire to honour the privilege extended to you by Christ Jesusshould not be determined by none other except by you even whenthere could be some efforts at stopping you. Such reasons maylook genuine but secondary to the wonderful privilege of thisGreat Banquet.Our Lord made it clear that for anyone who comes to him, suchperson must let go the personalities mentioned in our text. Carefullook at the category of persons mentioned, they are the verypeople that prevented the expected guests to honour the invitationto the great banquets. It is the same battle that many are fightingtoday. Some have actually given up in following Jesus whilesome pretend to follow but are under the whims and caprices ofthe personalities mention above. It is imperative at this juncture toask ourselves whether we have actually let go these personalities.Letting them go is to cease from being controlled by them whileGod and His work becomes a primary concern.Beloved, the issue of letting them go is in different areas. But thecounsel to you is absolute allegiance to the Lordship of Jesuswithout compromise. In order words, do not bend the rules in thisregard. What we all need is a decisive heart backed up withprayers that gives you victory over these personalities.PRAYERLord Jesus, grant us an excellent spirit that puts you over andabove these personalities in Jesus Name. 153

Immediately following the parable of the Great Banquet was the cost of being a disciple. The implication of this is that your desire to honour the privilege extended to you by Christ Jesusshould not be determined by none other except by you even whenthere could be some efforts at stopping you. Such reasons maylook genuine but secondary to the wonderful privilege of thisGreat Banquet.Our Lord made it clear that for anyone who comes to him, suchperson must let go the personalities mentioned in our text. Carefullook at the category of persons mentioned, they are the verypeople that prevented the expected guests to honour the invitationto the great banquets. It is the same battle that many are fightingtoday. Some have actually given up in following Jesus whilesome pretend to follow but are under the whims and caprices ofthe personalities mention above. It is imperative at this juncture toask ourselves whether we have actually let go these personalities.Letting them go is to cease from being controlled by them whileGod and His work becomes a primary concern.Beloved, the issue of letting them go is in different areas. But thecounsel to you is absolute allegiance to the Lordship of Jesuswithout compromise. In order words, do not bend the rules in thisregard. What we all need is a decisive heart backed up withprayers that gives you victory over these personalities.PRAYERLord Jesus, grant us an excellent spirit that puts you over andabove these personalities in Jesus Name. 154

Yesterday Jesus told us that whoever that desire to follow him must let go his father, mother, spouse, children, brothers, sisters and even oneself. No doubt this is a neworder hence many have not been able to come to terms with it. OurLord is an example of his teaching. Thus in our passage he clearlydefined those who fell into the above categories.A large crowd had gathered to listen to the message of salvationcoming from his mouth. Unfortunately the relatives were notthere. All we see of them on this occasion was to come andinterrupt the meeting. It was Jesus who said, “No prophet isaccepted in his home town”. Why is it that they could not bepatient to allow him finish the session before seeking to haveaudience with him?Two things can be deduced from their action. It could be that theydid not believe in him and his ministry. It could also be an abuse ofprivilege, undue use of advantage that God has bestowed onthem. All these are a common sight in and around us hence we donot respect our leaders. We do not believe in them, we see more oftheir weakness or background and we fail to appreciate what Godis doing through them.We also abuse our privileges, thus children can address parents inan abusive manner, some housewives no longer respect theirhusbands and in many other ways we abuse privileges instead ofbeing grateful to God. This meditation is meant to call us to order.PRAYERDear Father, we plead for forgiveness in any area we abuse ourprivileges. 155

Our passage deals with conflict resolution in the context of the church. If you carefully mediate on the passage, it is obvious that Christianity as a way of life is radicallydifferent from that of the world. The unfortunate thing is that manyare yet to put off the old garment in terms of conflict resolution.“When someone wrongs us, we often do the opposite of what Jesusrecommends. We turn away in hatred or resentment, seek revenge,or engage in gossip” This is what we see of many Christians whichis an evidence that we are yet to maximize the completetransformation that is found in Christ. Not only that many of usgossip, but we keep malice, separate ourselves from them thusbreaking the fellowship that ought to exist among brethren.Some would even extend it to those who may be relating well withthose who offended them. This is the picture of what you find inchurch. Too many people in church have lost fellowship with oneanother.If you are one of those affected, Jesus is using this medium to callyou back to adhere to our passage for you to follow his instruction,so that the harmony that is expected can exist in his church. It is onlythen there could be genuine fellowship between you and God andfellow men. At the end of your devotion, please make effort to reachthe one who had hurt you and discuss the matter. As a Christian youhave to follow the biblical injunction to resolve the conflictotherwise, you will be doing your own thing by disobeying the wordof God. Family members should find out if there is any hurt.PRAYERHoly Spirit give us courage to follow the word of God in Jesusname. Amen. 156

Binding and loosing is not only applicable to those who are possessed of demons alone, those who refused to apologize for the hurt done against others and all thosewho refused to forgive the hurt done against them are to either bebound or loosed. Imagine the number of persons in the church whohave been in bondage. We can begin to see some of the reasonswhy power is not as evident in the church as it were in the earlychurch. Too many unbelieving believers in the church who resistthe word of God in their lives.We often limit our passage to prayers, while it is applicable; thereal context is that of conflict resolution. If you have sworn neverto forgive the hurt done against you, even with the intervention ofothers and the church, it is crystal clear that you are not a child ofGod. The process that Jesus Christ has put down for us, if it isfollowed, certainly justice would be done. Anyone who ignoresthe process should know that he is in bondage inspite of who youmay be in the church.For those who may have been hurt even if anyone is notforthcoming, as a child of God you must forgive and forget lestyou keep yourself in bondage too. While in bondage, peace willelude such a person, fellowship will be lacking and a lot of damagewill follow. Every child of God knows that it is better, cheaper andpreferable to forgive than to keep the burden of malice.Recharge yourself with the love of Jesus, your airtime will berestored and network would be easy going.PRAYERLord as many in bondage in church, good Lord deliver them. 157

Beloved, let me formally welcome you to this new month of Devine prosperity in all ramifications. God has perfected plan for your life in preserving you tocross over to this new month. He wants to demonstrate Hisglory as He works out things for your own good. That is,divine prosperity in all aspect of life. This is to be followedwith fulfillment or accomplishment as things work for yourgood (Rm. 8:28). God will make you great like Abraham(Gen. 12:1 3).What is prosperity? It means to succeed, thrive to be well off,to really live good life, to have genuine success.Prov. 10:22 says “the blessings of the Lord brings wealthand added no trouble to it”. As you read this devotional, theblessing of the Lord will bring you wealth and add no troubleto it in Jesus name, amen. The blessings you receive willencompass your physical, spiritual, financial, matrimonialetc needs. It will bring no grieves, pains or sorrow.Ps. 24:1 says “the earth is the Lord and everything in it”God owns everything and desire to give them out to you. Keyinto Prov. 8:18 that says with me are riches and honour andenduring wealth etc.PRAYERO God give me grace to live a life that attract favour. 158

In continuation of God's divine prosperity for you this month as He ministered to us in yesterday devotion; He wants you to encounter his favour today. Favour is whathelps man to achieve divine destiny or expectation withminimum effort. Favour is sometimes used inter-changeablywith mercy of grace.As read from today's devotional text, the other virginsrequired many ornaments and other things which theythought would appeal to king Ahasuerus, but Esther requirednothing extra except what Hagai suggested. Because Godwas with her, coupled with simplicity. She stood out morethan others. When she was taken to the king, he indicated hislove and favour towards her above all others, and set theroyal crown upon her head. This year 2015, you will befavoured to rule in Jesus name, amen.Dan. 6:1-3 “… then Daniel was preferred above thepresidents and princes because of excellent spirit was in him;and the king thought to set him over the whole realm.When the spirit of favour is upon our lives, it compels menand angels to assist in our destiny pursuit.PRAYERFather, let this month and year be of exceptional favour tome in Jesus name. 159

Welcome to this day of this fresh month in the name of God the Father, son and Holy Spirit, amen. As we go about our endeavour today and thought this year, letus have the mind of Christ Jesus. To have the mind of Christ, wemust think as He thinks. This is possible throughtransformation that comes through renewing our mind by theword of God (Roman 12:2). Therefore meditate on the word ofGod listed on Phil. 4:8 “Whatever is true, whatever is noble,whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely,whatever is admirable, if anything is excellent or praiseworthy think about such things”.Having the mind of Christ means we understand God's plan tobring glory to Himself, restore creation to its original splendorand provide salvation for sinners through the gospel. It meanswe identify with Christ's purpose “to seek and save what waslost” (Lk. 19:10). It also means we share Jesus perspective ofhumility and obedience (Phil. 2:5 8), compassion (Matt. 9:36),and prayerful dependence on God (Lk. 5:16).In verses leading to 1Cor. 2:16, we note truth concerning themind of Christ (1Cor. 2:5 16). The mind of Christ stands insharp contrast to the wisdom of man. It involves wisdom fromGod, once hidden, but now revealed (verse 7).PRAYERHoly Spirit dwell and enlighten me with infusion of wisdomthe mind of Christ. 160

Welcome to today's devotional. In Matthew 13:3-8, Jesus tells us of a sower who goes out to sow seed in his field, only to find out that some seed the word ofGod, had fallen on rocky ground, where they didn't have muchsoil and immediately spring up, since they had no depth of soil,but when sun rose, they were scorched. And since they had noroot, they withered away (Matt. 13:5 6). This Jesus says, is theperson in whom the word is sown but does not take root (Matt.13:20 21). Psalm 1:2 says that “the man who meditates onGod's word is blessed”. Beloved, meditation opens the soil ofsoul and lets the water of God's word percolate in deeply. Theresult is extra ordinary fruitfulness and spiritual prosperity(Joshua 1:8).The first step toward applying God's word is reaching/listening. Our goal is to know God, learn His ways, understandHis purpose and obey Him. (Isa. 1:19).Next is keeping His words in our hearts (Ps. 119:11) When youread, study, memorize and meditate on the word of God, itmake it possible to successfully apply the scripture. Heb. 4:12say “For the word of God is quick and powerful and sharpereven to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit and of the jointand marrow and is a discerner of the thoughts and intent ofthe heart”.PRAYERO God! Feed me with bread from heaven in Jesus name,amen. 161

Flee from dangerous sexual pleasure outside God's designed marriage. God is committed to our sexual purity. The Bible says, “You were bought with a price. So glorify God inyour body” (1 Cor. 6:20). Christ died to purify our conscience andour lives.Beloved, the first step in our flight from immorality is to fillourselves with Jesus Christ, who says, “I am the bread of life,whoever comes to me shall not hunger and whoever believes inme shall never thirst” (Jn. 6:35).Therefore, fill yourselves with the word. “Man shall not live bybread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth ofGod” (Matt. 8:4; Col. 3:16). Secondly, our flight from sexualimmorality required that we lock out the lies that gives it power.Or as Solomon said, “Keep your eyes way far from her” (Prov5:8).Again, unless we retreat from the world, we are going toencounter seductive lies. E.g homosexualism, beastialism,toysiamism, pornography, masturbation, false fingernails, hair,eye lashes, make-up, false bumbum etc. While our old self wascorrupt through deceitful desires, the new self is created after thelikeness of God. (Eph. 4:22 24). Nevertheless, as you go aboutyour activities to day and daily, expose yourself to the light. If youfall to sexual sin, confess it, repent and ask for forgiveness (Jn. 1:57; James 5:16).PRAYERO God, give me the grace to overcome every trap and sin ofimmorality in Jesus name, amen. 162

As we read from the text, this was an appeal made by God through prophet Hosea, urging Israelites to return to Him and be cleansed of sins causing them to fall and bedestroyed. God even told them what to say in their repentanceand turning to Him. Take away all iniquity and receive usgraciously; so we will render the calves of our lips Vs 2. Thiscan be compared to the confession of the publican (Lk 18:13).In both Testaments, one can see the utter simplicity of what aperson has to do in faith to obtain forgiveness from God (Rm.10:9 10; 1Jn. 1:9).Beloved, Mk. 2:17 says … Jesus didn't come to the righteous,but sinners to repentance. The word calves indicates sacrifices;so in reality, this means; we will offer a sacrifice of praise toGod as fruit of our lips (Heb 13:15).Therefore, repentance is turning from sin and turning unto God.(Acts 20:21), it is called “repentance unto life” because, the newmind is not merely to depart from evil, but to obtain the life thatis found in Christ (Acts 11:18). It is also called repentance untosalvation as that is its object. II Cor. 7:10 says “For godlysorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of”.As you read this devotionally key into this call so that heavencan be made glad Lk. 15:7, 10 “i”.PRAYERO Lord, I surrender all to you, breath on me. 163

God's purpose for us is to advance the kingdom of God. Each person is endowed with natural gift in doing so. But seek God's kingdom first… (Matt.6:33) Through this scripture, we see that our needs will bemet when we focus on purpose.Therefore, you must die to self. That is, advance God'spurpose rather than your own (Matt. 16:24 25) Then decideyou are going to trust God to meet the needs of your life.Trust Him to show you what you are designed for. (Phil.4:19). Look inside yourself and ask, “What are my deepestdesires and most persistent thoughts? “For we are God'sworkmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works,which God prepared in advance for us to do” (Eph. 2:10).You need to follow your dreams (Col. 3:17) and align yourdesires with your natural gift. God has given seven naturalgifts to man. They are: preaching, serving, teaching,encouragement, giving, leading, showing mercy (Rm. 12:68). Discover your gift and use them. Nevertheless, determineyour gift by understanding the effect it has in someone's life.Vision is actually self discovering which is fanning intoflame the gift that is already in you. (1Tim 1:6). Get movingon your dreams. These dreams are your purpose.PRAYERUse this scripture to pray (Matt 7:7 8). 164

Welcome to today's devotional, but let us examine two key words: DEFENDER means a person who defends and believe in protecting by reasons orarguments that shows what is right or wrong. While FAITHimplies simply trust. It is the trustful response to God's wordsand His actions (Heb.11:1).Heb 11:6 say “But without faith, it is impossible to pleaseHim: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, andthat he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him”. We candraw some lessons from the text read on how to defend ourfaith. While one of the thieves hung on the cross mocked Jesuswithout reasons (Vs 39), the other defended his faith in Christin the following ways:Firstly, he demonstrated that, that he feared God. This weshould emulate in our daily living.Secondly, he rebuked the other for not fearing God (Vs 40),This we should also imbibe.Thirdly, he acknowledged his own condemnation and helplessstate (Vs 40) by the grace of God, we shall continue with thistopic tomorrow.PRAYERHeavenly Father, help me to build up my faith, praying in theHoly Spirit. 165

In continuation of yesterday discussion on lessons on how to defend our faith, one of the thieves hung with Jesus Christ acknowledged justice for the crime committed (Vs 41).Beloved, don't hide your mistake or sin. Acknowledge thembefore God and man.Fifthly, he confessed faith in the innocence of Christ who hadbeen cleared by all civil rulers.Six, he confessed Jesus as Lord (Vs 42), Do you confess Jesus asLord from your heart before all?Nevertheless, he confessed faith in the eventual triumph ofChrist's kingdom (Lk. 23:42).Finally, he asked for mercy and forgiveness of Jesus Christ (Lk.23:42)Therefore, note that “Faith” is necessary to salvation (Acts16:31), Roman 10:17 says “so faith cometh by hearing andhearing by the word of God”. As we read the Bible, our faithgrows greater and greater.As we listen to God's word preached, our faith grows stronger andstronger. Matt 17:20 “I say unto you, if ye have faith as a grain ofmustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence toyonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall beimpossible unto you”PRAYERLord, make me a hero of faith in my generation in Jesus name,amen. 166

Beloved, as we read from the text God saved, rescued, delivered and preserved our lives till today, so that we can serve God without fear; and you will fulfill yourdestiny in Jesus name, amen.Zachariah, a righteous priest and father of John the Baptist,filled with Holy Spirit prophesied concerning Jesus’ mandateon earth, He came to set the captive free. Jesus declared Hismandate in Lk. 4:18 19. And Acts 10:38 tells us on how He wasanointed with Holy Spirit and power and went about doinggood, healing those that were oppressed by the devil… it isyour turn to testify, receive your healing now in Jesus name. Bedelivered from sin, satanic bondage and oppression in Jesusname, amen. Friends, let us walk in His steps by serving Godand mankind without fear. Therefore, go and serve God withpower and witness Jesus to all (Acts 1:8). The greatcommission is our mandate (Matt. 28:19 20).As we go about our activities today, let us render fearlessservices by being more committed to our assigned duties withboldness (II Tim. 1:7). We are in the last days, please reconcileand make all efforts to be at peace with one another, living aholy life, without which no man can see God (Heb. 12:14).Finally in your entire endeavour, seek first the kingdom of Godand His righteousness…PRAYERAsk the Lord to give you grace to serve Him. 167

The duty of servants of Jesus Christ is summed up in one word, OBEDIENCE. Servants are to reverence those over them. They are to be sincere; not pretending obediencewhen they mean to disobey, but serving God faithfully. Withoutfaithfulness to God, there can be no Christian life. Christianity isbased first on faith that God is, and then through Christ Jesus, wecan be forgiven and saved. Our faithfulness is a commitment toadhere to the one God who is true and supreme and to keep Hiscommandment (Ex. 20).At this juncture, take the following bread from heaven to enhanceyour faithfullness in service to God. Ps 37:28 “For the Lord lovesthe just and will not forsake his faithful ones; Prov. 3:12 “Myson, do not forget my teaching, but keep my commands in yourheart, for they will prolong your life many years and bring youprosperity”. Prov. 16:6 7 “Through love and faithfulness sin isatoned for; through the fear of the Lord, a man avoids evil.When a man's way are pleasing to the Lord, he makes even hisenemies to live at peace with him” Prov. 28:20a A faithful manwill be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not gounpunished.Finally, Rev. 2:10 says “Do not fear any of those things whichyou are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw someof you into prison, that you may be tested and will havetribulation in ten days. Be faithful.”PRAYERFather, grant me victorious Christian living. 168

In New Testament times, wine was kept in skin flasks and often diluted with water. It was also used as medicine and disinfectant. The Bible condemns drunkenness and overindulgence but pictured wine as part of the typical ancientmeal.New wine parable is recorded in Matt. 9:14-17, Mk. 2:21-22and Lk. 5:33-39. It deals with the relationship between Jesus'teaching and traditional Judaism. Jesus here “pits” his ownnew way against the old way of the Pharisees and their scribes.Jesus brought something new, and the rituals and traditions ofofficial Judaism cannot continue .As read from the text especially verse 39, they illustrate thefact that the law and gospel cannot mix, that one must becomea new creature to partake of the gospel, and that no man who isused to old religion will desire the new without such change,for he is satisfied with the old.Therefore, be a new creature (2Cor. 5:17) it bring one intoChrist. One is a new creature the new wine. Old things arepassed away. The true Christian does not permit anything in hislife which is ungodly and un- Christian (Rm. 6:14-23; 8:1-13).PRAYERO God, make me a true Ambassador of Christ in my serviceunto you. 169

Beloved, welcome today's devotional. Today's topic are words and song of Haratio G Spafford, 1873 who has four children, except his wife Anna that was saved in a stormysea.This hymn was written after two major traumas in Spaffords life.The first was the great Chicago Fire of October, 1871, ruined himfinancially (he had been a wealthy businessman). Shortly after,while crossing the Atlantic, all four of Spafford's daughters died in acollision with another ship. Spafford's wife Ann survived and senthim the now famous telegram, “saved alone” several weeks later, asSpafford's own ship pass near the spot where his daughter's died, theHoly Spirit inspired these words. They speak to the eternal hope thatbelievers have no matter what pain and grief befallen them on earththus.When peace, like a river, attendeth my way,When sorrows like sea billows roll;Whatever my lot, thou has taught me to say,It is well, it is well, with my soul.Chorus: It is well, It is well with my soul, with my soul It is well, it is well with my soul.Though Satan should buffet, though trials should come. Let thisblest assurance control. That Christ has regarded my helpless estate,And hath shed His own blood for my soulChorus: It well ………………PRAYERIt is well with my body, soul & spirit. 170

As read from the text, Jesus cried out with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. That is, He spoke loud enough that all standing could hear the commandand see that even the dead were subject to Him.Firstly, Lazarus heard His voice from the grave in fulfillmentof the scripture as recorded on John 5:28-29 which says“Marvel not at this: for the hour is coming, in which all thatare in the grave shall hear His voice, and shall come forth;they that have done good, unto the resurrection of life, andthey that have done evil, unto resurrection of damnation”.Consequently, as in verse 44… He that had been dead. Cameforth… Jesus said, “Loose him, and let him go”. Therefore, Ilikewise speak life unto any deadness in your bodies,marriages, business, career etc in Jesus name, amen. Anyman or woman that is bound by Satan, be loose and enjoyliberty in Jesus name. I Cor 13:11 outline three things that aman must put away; speaking like a child, understanding likea child and thinking like a child. Beloved, key into promisesof victorious life. John 7:37-38, “Jesus stood and cried… outof his inmost being shall flow rivers of living water”. This isJesus' own promise to you.PRAYERBy the power that is above every other name Jesus, I loosemyself and family from any deadness in Jesus name, amen. 171

Welcome to today devotional. As read from the text, the promises of God to our father Abraham, were fulfilled through Jesus Christ. Those who are baptizedinto Christ will become “heirs” according to the promise. Whatare the promises? He will be a great nation; That God will blesshim; that his name will be great; He will be blessing; Others whobless him, will be blessed; Others who curse him, will be cursed.In him shall all families on earth be blessed.In Gal. 3:8, this promise was elevated to the status of the gospel.And in Acts, this promise is clearly explained thus: Acts 3:19; 25-26 “…Repent ye… be converted, that your sins may be blottedout, when times of refreshing shall come from the presence of theLord… Ye are the children of the prophets, and of the covenantwhich God made with our fathers, saying unto Abraham, “And inthy seed shall all the hundreds of the earth be blessed. Unto youfirst, having raised up His son Jesus, sent him to bless you, inturning away everyone of you from his iniquities”.Therefore, this blessings that are promised through the seed ofAbraham, we appropriate when our sins are forgiven as a result ofan obedient faith, as we rise up from the water to walk in newnessof life.PRAYERO God, in your mercies, let me enjoy all the promises of Abrahamas a co hair with my Lord Jesus Christ. 172

Apostle Peter wrote this epistle to encourage those who are feeling discouraged, displaced, depressed or in danger and tells them that they need to take hold oftheir living hope through the power of the resurrection ofJesus Christ.As read from the text, Peter begins the main bodyof his letter with praise for the wonder of salvation. “blessedbe the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, whoaccording to His great mercy has caused us to be born againto a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ”.The “new birth” result in a living hope. This living hope isbased on the resurrected Christ (I Pet. 1:21). The living Christis the source of our new birth and our living hope?What is a living hope? What is the hope we now have, thatonly the resurrection of Jesus Christ can give us? A livinghope is a hope that never dies. This hope is like living waterwhich never runs dries. Such hope springs from the fountainof God Himself.The Christian hope in Christ is as certain as the fact that Christis alive. Here “living” means that the believer's hope is sure,certain and real as opposed to the deceptive, empty, false hopethe world offers.PRAYERO, Lord, circumcise my heart and let your fountain of livingwater flow unto me and my family in Jesus name, amen. 173

Green generally refer to grasses, trees and plants something naturally filled with nutrients. While Meadow implies track of grassland especially moist,low-lying pasture. This illustrate God's blessing. Ps. 65:13says “The pasture are clothed with flocks, the valleys also arecovered over with corn, they shout for joy, they also sing”.As read from the text, the Lord said in His acceptable time, thatis the month, He had heard you and will help you, give thee fora covenant of people to established the earth. To restore theearth and cause desolate places to be inhabited.Nevertheless, Green Meadow connotes loosing the prisoner orliberation of the righteous. Beloved, Jesus our shepherd, aftersetting you free, He will feed you in the way, along the paths inwhich He leads as read in Is 49:9. He will give you pasture inhigh places promotion, upliftment etc; He will satisfy you sothat you will never be hungry; He will protect you from theheat of the sun, He will lead you all your day and guide you tospring of living water (Rev. 7:15-17). Then you shall now saylike David in Ps. 103:1-5 “Bless the Lord O my soul and allthat is within me…” Expect God's visitation now.PRAYEROh God break poverty from my life and sustain me with greatwealth. 174

Beloved, welcome to another day of our Lord in 2015. Righteousness is one of the nature of God which we must imbibe on daily basis. If you must overcomebattles of life, then you need to put on righteousness as abreastplate, and helmet of salvation upon your head as part ofweapons of warfare.As read from the text, having laid before you, your high callingand great doctrines of the gospel; I will now show how you canovercome your enemies. Please make time to read Ephesians6:10 18. At this juncture, let me outline twelve commands youneed to over come the antics of the devils. Be strong in the Lord(verse 10); Put on the whole armour of God (verse 11); stand(verse 13 14); Then as mentioned earlier, put on thebreastplate of righteousness (verse 14); Have your feet shodwith the preparation of the gospel of peace (verse 15); Take theshield of faith (verse 16); Take the helmet of salvation (verse17); Take the sword of the spirit (verse 18); very importantlywatch in prayers (verse 18).Some of the blessings of the armour of God are ability to standagainst all enemies (verses 11-14); ability to withstand allattacks (verse 13) and ability to quench every fiery dart ofSatan (verse 16). Lets learn from Elijah who put onrighteousness in the battle of Mt. Carmel (I Kings 18:20-39).PRAYERFather, make my righteousness to shine like a noonday sun toovercome darkness. 175

Rod means a straight, slender stick cut from a tree. His rod is used for discipline or correction. It is also an instrument of authority. Ps. 2:9 says “You will rulethem with an iron scepter, you will dash them to pieces likepottery”. Ps. 45:6 say “Your throne, O God will last for everand ever; a scepter of justice will be the scepter of yourkingdom”. The 'Rod' is also used by shepherd for counting,guiding, rescuing and protecting sheep (Ezek. 20:37; Lev.27:32).Now as read from the text, the right path or straight path is topursue righteousness. That is wisdom will save you from theway of the wicked, violent man or punishment. Correction canonly be grievous to backslider and he that hated reproof shalldie. (Prov. 15:10).Beloved, lets ponder on why, God uses “His Rod” God uses Hisrod when men refuse to hear (Job 33:14-29); When they sin (IISam. 7:14); when men provoke God (Ps. 6:1), when theyforsake God (Ps. 89:30-32); when men refuse to judge orexamine themselves (I Cor. 11:32); when they stubbornly rebel(Deut. 11:2- 6; Lev. 26:14-31); when men sow to the flesh (Gal.6:7-8); when His children need instruction and correction(Heb. 12:5 10; Rev. 3:19).PRAYERO God, help me to do the right thing at the right time as youorder my steps daily in Jesus name, amen. 176

Welcome to today's devotional. As read from the text, the context shows that Paul was speaking of giving. We need to follow the steps of Jesus Christ who wasrich, but was made poor so that we can be rich through hissacrificial life on earth.Now as we go about our daily activities and service to God andmankind, lets ponder on what we ought to give. Firstly, we needto give our bodies. (Roman 12:1) says “I beseech you brethren,by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a livingsacrifice…” The Macedonians gave themselves to God. (II Cor.8:5) says … first gave their own selves to the Lord”. Secondly,lets give ourselves wholly to the things of God (I Tim. 4:15)“Mediate upon these; give thyself wholly (completely) to theword (I Tim. 4:13) says “Till I come, give attendance to reading,to exhortation, to doctrine”. Give earnest heed to what we heard.(Heb. 2:1) says, therefore, we ought to give more earnest heed towhat we heard”. Let us also give ourselves continually to prayer.(Acts 6:4) say “But we will give ourselves continually to prayerand to the ministry of the word”. Nevertheless, give thanks foreverything. (Thess. 5:18) says “In everything give thanks forthis is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you”.Finally, give money to the Lord (II Cor. 8:2 4) Macedonians outof their deep poverty gave liberally to the Lord and Paul acceptedthe gifts as an acts of fellowship.PRAYERFather, grant me the grace to give all and be a blessing to mygeneration. 177

By the grace of God, today is another day, the Lord has made for us to witness His awesomeness. As read from the text. We are being called to persevere while awaitingthe second appearance of Jesus Christ. That is, hold on to yourfaith in the midst of trials, temptation, suffering, persecution etc.Don't abandon the faith. Don't be weary in doing good, for at theproper time or season, you shall reap your reward (Gal. 6:9).(I Thess. 5:2) says “For you know very well that the day of theLord will come like a thief in the night and verse 4 says “Butyou brothers are not in darkness, so that this day shouldsurprise you like a thief”. Therefore, we must be prepared forHis second coming. If you are hungry for heaven, then you mustcarry out God's mandate in fulfilling (Matt. 24:14) which says“And this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in the wholeworld as a testimony to all nations and then the end will come”Beloved, as you go about your business or any other endeavourtoday, endeavour to witness Jesus to somebody. Take note ofsome points I want to highlight to us now.Make them to realize that “All have sin” (Rm. 3:23); The resultof sin is eternal death (Rm. 6:23; Gel. 6:7-8), Mention examplesof sins and destination (Gal. 5:19-21) show them the love of God(Jn. 3:16); Jesus is the only source of salvation (Acts 4:12; Jn.3:14-15). Finally make altar call and pray with them (Rev. 3:20).PRAYERFather, here I am send me and use me. 178

As read from the text, Christ compares the kingdom of heaven to a field with good seeds. The man who plants the seed has an enemy, and while men were sleeping,sows weeds among the wheat. Then he sneaks away. Later, whenthe wheat plants grow and bear grains weeds grow among them.The man's servant ask their master whether they should pluckout the weeds, but they are told to let them be “lest in gatheringthe weeds you root out the wheat along with them”. Theservants are to let both kinds grow till harvest time. Then themaster will order the reapers to gather bundles and burn theweeds. The wheat will be safely stored in his barn.(Matt. 13:36- 43) interpret this parable. The son of man sowedthe good seeds. The good seeds are the sons of the kingdom; theweeds are the sons of the evil one the devil; the harvest time isthe end of age. At the end of age, the sons of the devil will beseparated from the sons of the kingdom, who will shine like thesun in the kingdom of their Father. God will deal with yourenemy in His own time. In (I Cor. 1:7 8), Paul urges patience andfaith”…so that you are not lacking in any spiritual gift, as youwait for the revealing of our Lord Jesus Christ; who will sustainyou to the end, guiltless in the presence of our Lord JesusChrist”. This also call for watchfulness and vigilance, becausethe weeds were planted while people are asleep (Prov. 24:33-34).PRAYERO Lord. Keep me blameless and alert until Jesus come to take mehome. 179

Congratulations! God has seen us to the end of this month. He will also graciously cross us over to next month with more fulfillments in Jesus name, amen.Altars were structures used in worship as places where sacrificesoffered to God or gods. Altars also were places of God's presence(Gen. 12:7; 26:24 25; Ex. 20:24). It connotes a place of refuge. Itrepresented access to God.Sin can be likened to broken heaps of stones and is the root ofproblems in the church, Nigeria and the world at large today. Justas Israel turned back on God at the time of Elijah, so do we today.We are experiencing famine today spiritually in our homes,families, marriages, school, government etc. some of the causesof broken altars in our lives are prayerlessness, not reading andmediating on the word of God (Joshua 1:8), accepting sin anddoing nothing about it. Others are abortion, adultery,alcoholism, child abuse, homosexualism, divorce, gambling etc.The effects of broken altar are no rain or blessings. Therefore, aswe round off this month, restoration must take place now. Let thefire fall for revival. Erect family altar. The family that praytogether stays together. It is time to repent (II Chron. 7:14).Rededication is necessary. Time is running out. Heaven and hellare real. Where do you want to spend eternity?PRAYERO God thunder against every evil altar in my life and give me restin Jesus name, amen. 180

Welcome to another wonderful day and new month that promises greater things and of glorious encounter. As read from the text, “For as he thinketh in his heart, sois he…” what do you think about Jesus Christ? (Matt. 22:42). Please mediate on the words of the song below: God sent His Son, They call Him Jesus, He came to die, heal and forgive, An empty tomb is there to prove my saviour live. Chorus: Because He lives, I can face tomorrow…There is power in what you think or meditate upon. The nextquestion is what do you think about yourself? Have passion for thethings of God and pursue God's presence if you want to fulfill yourdestiny as Jesus did as can be reflected in the song above. Jesusfinished the work given to Him by His Father (Jn. 17:4) God hasgood plan for you (Jer. 29:11), Think God or mediate on the wordof God if you want to be successful (Joshua 1:8). Be obedient likeJesus and you will enjoy the good of the Lord (Isa. 1:19).Therefore, do not carry on conversation with a fool the devil andhis agents) who will despise your word (Prov. 28:9). Apply yourheart to wisdom (Prov. 23:12); Give ear to knowledge(Prov.23:12), Mediate on praiseworthy things like honesty,justice, purity, love, good report, any virtue etc. Thank God onthese. (Phil. 4:8).PRAYERAsk the Lord to give you grace to seek His kingdom and Hisrighteousness. 181

Faith is confidence in God that leads us to believe His word. By faith we receive Jesus Christ as our Saviour and confess Him to the world. According to (Heb. 11:1)“Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, evidence ofthings not seen”. Therefore, Faith is trust in God and in Jesuswhom He hath sent, and receiving Him as Saviour and Lordwhich implies loving obedience and good work.At this juncture, let us recall the song we meditated uponyesterday devotional “Thank God” below. God sent His son, They Call Him Jesus, He came to die, heal & forgive, He bled and died to buy my pardon, An empty tomb is there prove my saviour lives. Chorus: Because He Lives…As we go about our activities today and this month, let us moveforward by faith in striving to fulfill God's mandate and walkby faith in the steps of Christ. This is to please God (Heb. 11:6).There can be no dealing with the invisible God without faith inHis existence. We must believe that He exists; that He rewardsmen, this confidence is called faith. Also note that Faith isnecessary to salvation (Acts 16:31). Therefore exercise faithalways.PRAYERO God, help me to live for Jesus every day in Jesus name.Amen. 182

Love is unselfish, loyal and benevolent intention and commitment toward another. The concept of love of God is deeply rooted in Bible. Biblical love has God as itsobject, true motivator and source. Love is a fruit of the HolySpirit (Gal. 5:22).The ultimate example of God's love is the Lord Jesus Christ, whosaid, “I give you a new commandment: that you love oneanother. Just as I have loved you, you should love one another”(John 15:12; 13:14).(I Cor. 13:1- end) exposes the character of love.According to thischapter of love; Rhetorical ability, preaching, knowledge,mountain moving faith, charity towards the poor or evenmartyrdom are nothing without agape love.At this juncture, let us examine some of the character of love;LONG SUFFERING (Vs 4). This is a fruit of the spirit (Gal.5:22), it refers to a quality that does not seek revenge, but sufferswrong in order to act redemptively; LOVE IS KIND. That isgracious, virtuous, useful, manageable, mild, Pleasants,benevolent the opposite of harsh, hand, sharp or bitter; LOVE ISNOT ENVIOUS (Covetous), does not jealously desire what hedoes not posses; LOVE DOES NOT PROMOTE ITSELF. It isnot puffed up. (I Cor. 8:1). Paul says in (Phil. 2:3) “In humilityconsider others as more important than yourselves” To becontinued tomorrow.PRAYERFather, let your nature of love be fully formed in me in Jesusname, amen. 183

Welcome to today's devotional. Now, let us continue from where we stopped yesterday on the above topic. Love does not behave itself in an unbecomingfashion. Believers are to avoid even the appearance of evil (IThess. 5:22). LOVE DOES NOT SEEK ITS OWN THINGS.Paul once sent Timothy because “I have no one else like-minded who will genuinely care about your interests, all seektheir own interests, not those of Jesus Christ” (Phil. 2:20-21).Love is not easily provoked irritated, exasperated, or madeangry. When Jesus was hit, He did not retaliate but said, “If Ihave spoken wrongly, give evidence about the wrong; but ifrightly, why do you hit me?” (John 18:23). Love believes thebest about people; it “thinketh no evil” (K.J.V), “does not keepa record of wrongs” (H.C.S.B). In other words, love overlooksinsults or wrong (Prov. 17:9; 19:11, Eph 5:11).Next, love finds no joy in unrighteousness (wrong doing,injustice) but rejoice in the truth (I Cor. 13:6). Paul concludesthat love bears all, believes all, hopes all and endures all things.Love never fails. Solomon said, “Many waters cannot quenchlove, neither can the floods drown it” Songs of Solomon 8:7(K.J.V).PRAYERFather, make me a practical instrument of your love on earth inJesus name, amen. 184

The eager expectation of the second coming of the Lord Jesus Christ was at its peak when Paul wrote to the Thessalonians. Persecution was very fierce; Christianswere tempted to deny the faith. Others were being lured awayby worldly things. Thus the need to encourage one anotherwas very important. The need to comfort one another is rootedfrom the understanding of the body of Christ. As many as wemay be we are different parts of the same body. No part of thebody can detach itself. They are mutually dependent.The body of Christ is unlike people working together in anestablishment. It is the job that brings them together as soon asthe job is over, to your tent 0 Israel. Everybody looks out forhis own interest and welfare. Christianity is not like that, it ismuch more than that. Some may think it is only the worshipthat brings us together, therefore at the end of it we disperse.At any given time, we belong to the same body and we mustlook for the welfare of one another. Every born again child ofGod belongs to the body of Christ. In this end-time with somany, fallen by the way side, we need to comfort one another.Look for somebody to encourage today.PRAYERLord, there are many today that needs your comfortespecially victims of insurgency help us to encourage themand may they be comforted. 185

We have seen situations where individuals became comforters to others. A typical example was Titus to Paul. The scripture enjoined us to comfort oneanother. The scripture is also warning us to be careful ofmiserable comforters. If we are unmindful of such, we shallhave ourselves to blame. As children of God, we can alwaysdiscern these miserable comforters. Although it is not writtenon their fore-head but by their counsel, you will know.Job was a man terribly exposed to satanic temptations. To hisfriends it was impossible to believe Job innocence. Job cannotclaim innocence; certainly he is responsible to a large extent.They made every effort in the name of comforting him andhelping to overcome his problem to accept the fact that he wasresponsible. Job knew he was innocent and he saw they weremiserable comforters.We still have these people around. Although they pretend tocomfort, but in their hearts they are laughing at the victim.When they visit, they come to obtain information in order to goout and say a different thing. These are the miserablecomforters, they try to compound issues. Have you suffered inthe hands of miserable comforters? Never give up, turn to yourcomforter - the Holy Spirit.PRAYERGood Lord deliver us from miserable comforters at a time ofstrange attack from the pit of hell, may we never be victims. 186

By the pool called Bethesda were so many invalids waiting for healing. Among these people was a man who had been an invalid for thirty eight years. Jesus told him \"get up! Pick upyour mat and walk\" and the man was cured instantly.The world today is infested with different types of diseases, some ofthem are spiritual others are ordinary. All of these are holding peoplehostage. Some have been going from one hospital to the other. Someof the diseases have even defied every known medicine. AIDS isspreading rapidly. Ebola has come with no known cure. These are theweapons that Satan is using to quicken the death of people so that theywill not have the opportunity of repentance. The scourge of cancer isnot abating either. Thus so many terminal ailments have put manylives in difficult situation.Today we speak of the healing power of Jesus that is still very muchalive doing wonders in different places. That Nigeria overcame thescourge of Ebola was as a result of the healing of the Lord. Just as Godset apart Bethesda pool for the healing of his People, so Jesus hasgiven his ministers the power to lay their hands on the sick and theywill recover (Mark 16:18, James 5:13-16). Dearly beloved are yousick? Whether spiritual or physical you can be healed in the name ofJesus Christ. Kneel and say this prayer in faith, commanding thesickness out of your body.PRAYERMerciful Father, your son Jesus Christ healed the sick and restoredthem to fullness of life; look with compassion on the anguish of theworld and heal the affliction of your people in Jesus name Amen.As I lay my hand on myself in your name I receive healing today. 187

King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon ordered one of his officials Ashpenaz to look for some young men among the Israelites without any physical defect, handsome, showing aptitude forevery kind of learning, well informed and quick to understand. He wasto teach them and get them ready to serve in the king's palace. Danieland his three other friends were found to be fit for the job.When they were brought to the palace for training, the king assigned agood portion of his royal food and wine to them. However, Danielresolved that he would not defile himself with the daily portion. Thereason being that this food and drink had evidently been consecratedby heathen religious rite, and to have eaten it would be defilingthemselves. He therefore approached the chief eunuch to give themonly vegetables.At the end of ten days, Daniel and his friends were looking healthier.We learn a great lesson from Daniel. Do we care about what we eatespecially if dedicated to a particular festival? A good example isfestivals in the name of religion. If Muslims were doing one of theirfestivals and they bring ram for their brothers and sisters andneighbours who are Christians are they to eat? The answer is, it iswrong to eat such food because we are not of the same faith but wemust separate this from a party organized. As Christians we must bevery careful of what we eat. We need to be more disciplined in terms offood. A child of God is not meant to eat all the time and whatevercomes his way. Some of the delicacies are of the devil. Pray that theHoly Spirit will help you to discern them.PRAYERFather, forgive us of any defilement and may we be washed by theblood of Jesus. 188

Daniel in Babylon realized that the fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. That was why he rejected the royal food which had evidently been consecrated by heathenreligious rites. As a child of God you have been set apart by God,your life is meant to glorify him. Christians are becoming too liberalin so many things. Christianity has not been as permissive as it is inour days. Gradually, the discipline for which Christianity wasknown is been eroded and we are taking a lot of things for granted.The devil is encouraging Christians with the slang; 'it doesn'tmatter'. God understands. To Titus Paul says, \"For the grace of Godthat brings Salvation has appeared to all men. It teaches us to say\"No\" to ungodliness and worldly passions and to live selfcontrolled, upright and godly lives in this present age\" (2:11-12)Many of us find it difficult to say “NO” to things that are opposed toGod. We seemed to forget that we are relating to theAlmighty as Hischildren by adoption.The fear of God connotes a loving reverence for God that involvessubmission to His Lordship and to His commands, for this is thewhole duty of man. Our desire should be to do his will in any givensituation. This will mark the beginning of genuine knowledge thatwill bring blessings to our lives. This knowledge can only be givenby the Holy Spirit through our Lord Jesus Christ. Do you really fearGod in all your endeavours?PRAYERLord we plead for genuine revival in your church lest we perishand teach us to fear thee. 189

Today many are complaining of enemies then hear this; “those who honor me I will honor\" says the Lord (1 Samuel 2:30). God is never a man that he will lie, if youhonor him he will surely honor you. That was the case of Danielin the land of Babylon. When it was time for 'enjoyment' hepreferred to glorify his God. That singular decision waspreparing him for greater heights. Moses in Egypt preferred tobe with his people instead of the ungodly enjoyment inpharaoh's palace.We have seen Christians who have behaved like Esau, becauseof a little morsel abandoned their faith. Because of money orthe desires of this life many have abandoned the faith andfollowed deceiving spirits.The wise men in Babylon, the enchanters, magicians thediviners could not interpret the dream of Nebuchadnezzar. Itwas only Daniel, this made the king to prostrate before him andthe government of Babylon was placed in the hands of Danieland his friends. When a man's ways are pleasing to the Lord, hisenemies will be at peace with him. You need not compromise;stand for the Lord and the Lord will stand for you and you willshine like Daniel. Your enemies will surely bow before you.PRAYERAlmighty Father, help us to honour you in all we do and befaithful like Daniel. 190

Without struggle Solomon became the king of Israel. He was a man who started well. To have been given the privilege to be a king indeed isGod's own doing. Therefore to succeed one must begin withGod, thus he went to Gibeon to make burnt offering unto theLord. After the offerings, at night God appeared to him andtold him, \"Ask for whatever you want me to give you.\" Nodoubt he was quite exposed; he must have seen or heardabout people who were very wealthy and famous in theworld. He must have heard about Gentile kings how rich theywere and how they were lording over their subjects. Herealized that true greatness can only be found in God. This isthe lesson for the past three days that brought Daniel togreatness.Solomon's request was pleasing to God, not only that Godanswered his prayer but gave him His word - I will also giveyou wealth, riches and honor. If God were to give us theopportunity to ask, your guess is as good as mine. I am surewe will ask for material things as evidenced in what wedesire most breakthrough leading to prosperity in materialthings. There is something more than gold, we should lookfor it these other things will be given to us (Matthew6:33).PRAYERWisdom and knowledge, come from you 0 God help us toseek more of you on daily basis. 191

The Bible makes many comparisons between the ways of sheep and human beings, the Shepherd and the Lord. This is only natural as the Hebrews were known earlyin their history as wandering herdsmen. By nature, sheep arehelpless creatures. They depend on shepherds to lead them towater, to wade off wild beasts etc. Thus; a unique relationshipexists between the shepherd and the sheep. He knows them byname and they recognize his voice and responds immediately.Then you have shepherd staff with which the shepherdcorrects the erring sheep once in a while. At times theshepherd will throw their rods at a stubborn straying sheep thatrefuses to hear the voice of the shepherd.The relationship between God and us is like that of the sheepand the shepherd. He disciplines and directs us when the needarises. Like the straying sheep, sometimes we anger God andarouse His jealousy by our behaviour (Verse 58). And soon,He remembers that we are but flesh, a passing breeze ... (V 39).He directs us like the flock, knows everybody and calls him byhis name. David said the rod and the staff of God bringscomfort to him. How do you see God's correction in your life?PRAYERLord, please make us a willing sheep under your wonderfulcare that your rod and staff would always put us on the rightside of life. 192