Wednesday, 19 October 2016

OPEN HEAVENS I KNOW YOUR WORKS IV – Wednesday October 19th 2016




I KNOW YOUR WORKS IV – Wednesday October 19th 2016
Memorise: This is a true saying, if a man desire the office of a bishop, he desireth a good work. A bishop then must be blameless… 1st Timothy 3:1-2a

Read: Revelations 2:18-24, (KJV)

18 And unto the angel of the church in Thyatira write; These things saith the Son of God, who hath his eyes like unto a flame of fire, and his feet are like fine brass;

19 I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last to be more than the first.

20 Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.

21 And I gave her space to repent of her fornication; and she repented not.

22 Behold, I will cast her into a bed, and them that commit adultery with her into great tribulation, except they repent of their deeds.

23 And I will kill her children with death; and all the churches shall know that I am he which searcheth the reins and hearts: and I will give unto every one of you according to your works.

24 But unto you I say, and unto the rest in Thyatira, as many as have not this doctrine, and which have not known the depths of Satan, as they speak; I will put upon you none other burden.

 Bible in one year: Hosea 11-14, Psalms 81



MESSAGE

It is amazing and at the same time fearful to realise that the Almighty God takes note of the so-called minor misses of the Church as seen in today’s Bible reading. Open Heavens 19 October 2016:- I know your works IV God is mindful of those who occupy His altar and He will hold in contempt, not only those who climb the altar with profanity but also those who allow them to climb. In Revelation 2:20, God said:

“Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce my servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols.”

The first lesson to be learnt from today’s reading is in verse 18. The One that is assessing the Church in Thyatira has eyes like unto a flame of fire! In other words, He sees everything done in secret and in public. Absolutely nothing is hidden from Him. Psalms 139:11-12 says:

“If I say, Surely the darkness shall cover me; even the night shall be light about me. Yea, the darkness hideth not from thee; but the light shineth as the day; the darkness and the light are both alike to thee.”

As we have mentioned over and over, the Almighty God knows the details of our service. This should always be a consolation to us, especially when it seems our services in the Church are not being appreciated. Know this, your Father in heaven who sees in secret will always reward you in the open. If you are a Deacon and you labour for the church like the General Overseer, it will amaze you that the reward of a General Overseer will pursue, overtake and stay with you. David was fighting like the commander-in-chief of the hosts of Israel and God rewarded him handsomely in many respects even before he was crowned. The greatest lesson with a strong warning is that your service is not perfect when it is laden with immorality and any form of evil. A Church is in danger when she allows profanity to take over the sanctuary. The Lord is warning someone using this devotional that has been using service to cover up his or her immorality and greed. Please, repent today and stop polluting the sanctuary of the Lord. The consequence of your defiant attitude to this warning are severe as seen in Revelation 2:22-23. May the Almighty God have mercy in Jesus’ name. .

Prayer Point

Father, wherever I have been missing it in my service to You, please help me make amends.

JOSEPH PRINCE DAILY GRACE INSPIRATIONS - WEDNESDAY, 19TH OCTOBER 2016 - All That I Have Is Yours




‘All That I Have Is Yours’

Luke 15:31
31... ‘Son, you are always with me, and all that I have is yours.

After running a few errands for his parents, a little boy went to his father and said,“I know why you and mummy had me.”“Why?”asked his father.

“So that you guys would have someone to run errands for you!” exclaimed the boy.

Like the little boy, do you see God as a Father who demands obedience and service from you? Have you ever felt that unless you obey Him and keep all His commandments, you don’t have a right to be blessed by Him?

Jesus shared the story of the prodigal son to show how some of us call God “Father” and yet don’t know His heart. There are two sons in this parable. We know what happened to the prodigal son, but we can also learn something about the older son. This is what he said to his father when he discovered that his father had thrown a party to celebrate the return of his irresponsible, spendthrift brother: “Lo, these many years I have been serving you; I never transgressed your commandment at any time; and yet you never gave me a young goat, that I might make merry with my friends.” (Luke 15:29)

Now, this son believed that his father had brought him into the world to serve him. He saw his father as someone issuing commandments to him all the time. And he saw himself as someone who had to obey those commandments to enjoy his inheritance. But the truth is that the father had already given him his inheritance. (Luke 15:12) The father even reminded him lovingly: “Son... all that I have is yours.” And I am sure that that inheritance included more than one goat!

Have you, like the older son, failed to understand your Father’s heart? Your heavenly Father already gave you a rich inheritance in Christ when you became His son. He wants you to know that you have received the Spirit of sonship. (Romans 8:15) So call out to Him, “Abba, Father!” and know how much He loves you. Because you are His heir, all that He has is yours to enjoy today!

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES - WEDNESDAY, 19TH OCTOBER 2016 - God Is Love




God Is Love .

Wednesday, October 19th .
Pastor Chris

Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love (1 John 4:7-8).

Love is the totality of God’s nature. This is beyond someone having love in his heart or the ability to love; it means that He’s love personified. God is love! And because He’s love, He doesn’t have the capacity to hate; it’s not possible for God to hate. Hate is of the darkness. God is light, and in Him, there’s no darkness at all (1 John 1:5). The Bible says, “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning” (James 1:17).

Someone may reference Romans 9:13 and ask, But didn’t God say, “...Jacob have I loved, but Esau have I hated?” (Read Malachi 1:2-3). This is where understanding the place of poetry and prophecy, and the dichotomy of expression in the Scriptures come in. The language of the Prophets in the Old Testament shouldn’t always be interpreted at face value; you’d have to look through the words of other Prophets to interpret them. You’d also have to judge their communication in line with the revelation of God that we see in the New Testament, in the person of Jesus.

God is love. When the Holy Spirit reveals God to you and you get to know Him, His love will dominate you. This is because the more you love Him, the more like Him you become. As you meditate on His love for you, you’ll find yourself demonstrating that same love in your life.

You’re a product of love. Let the love of God in your spirit dominate you. It’s something you do. The Bible says for us not to love only in words, but in deeds as well (1 John 3:18). Be like God whose essence is love, because as He is, so are you in this world.

                   PRAYER

The love of God is expressed through me today; my communication, actions, and all that emanate from me are expressions of the love-nature of Christ that’s in my spirit. I’m the embodiment and expression of the love of Christ. Hallelujah!

Further Study: || John 15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends. ||

|| John 17:23 I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me, and hast loved them, as thou hast loved me. ||

|| 1 John 4:16 And we have known and believed the love that God hath to us. God is love; and he that dwelleth in love dwelleth in God, and God in him. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Timothy 1:1-20,
Jeremiah 5-6

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 9:11-28,
Ezekiel 17

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

Tuesday, 18 October 2016

OPEN HEAVENS I KNOW YOUR WORKS III – Tuesday October 18th 2016




I KNOW YOUR WORKS III – Tuesday October 18th 2016
Memorise: Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils; 1st Timothy 4:1

Read: Revelation 2:12-17, (KJV)

12 And to the angel of the church in Pergamos write; These things saith he which hath the sharp sword with two edges;

13 I know thy works, and where thou dwellest, even where Satan’s seat is: and thou holdest fast my name, and hast not denied my faith, even in those days wherein Antipas was my faithful martyr, who was slain among you, where Satan dwelleth.

14 But I have a few things against thee, because thou hast there them that hold the doctrine of Balaam, who taught Balac to cast a stumblingblock before the children of Israel, to eat things sacrificed unto idols, and to commit fornication.

15 So hast thou also them that hold the doctrine of the Nicolaitanes, which thing I hate.

16 Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.

17 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the hidden manna, and will give him a white stone, and in the stone a new name written, which no man knoweth saving he that receiveth it.

Bible in one year: Hosea 6-10, Psalms 80:8-19



MESSAGE

In the Bible reading, Jesus Christ commended the Church in Pergamos, reassuring them that nothing about them is hidden from Him. The interesting thing about this Church is that in spite of the nearness of the Church to the seat of Satan, they still held on to the Name of Jesus Christ, they never denied their faith even in the face of terrible persecution. However, Jesus Christ had a serious allegation against them. They tolerated in their midst those who were holding on to and practising false doctrines. This is a food for thought for Christians of the 21st century. In this end-time, we compromise a lot of the apostolic orthodox in the name of civilization and fundamental human rights. We have forgotten that just as God is not a democrat, He is also not a human activist. He has His set of rules that we must abide by, however, we compromise this divine standard because we think we can through that, win these blasphemers into the Kingdom. Open Heavens 18 October 2016:- I Know your works III As a matter of fact, because we have tolerated them so much, they now see themselves as Christians too, setting worldly standard for the Church as they dangle their wealth at the saints.

Will Jesus not hate such a compromise in the name of magnanimity when it becomes a stumbling block to the saints? The saints are living their first love because of the doctrine of Balaam. This compromise spoiled the good works of the Church in Pergamos. In Revelations 2:16, Jesus warned the Church:

 “Repent; or else I will come unto thee quickly, and will fight against them with the sword of my mouth.”

One major revelation in this passage is that the message of repentance was preached to the Church in Pergamos. We are hereby encouraged to heed this warning too, so that we can overcome these temptations through genuine repentance. When we overcome, our reward will be the hidden manna and a testimonial of perfection written on precious stone. 18 October 2016 Open Heavens.

Beloved, do not be deceived by your longevity in Church. God knows your works and He will reward you accordingly.

Prayer Point

Father, help me to disassociate myself from worldly pollution.

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES - TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18TH 2016 - Train Yourself To Love




Train Yourself To Love · tuesday · Page Visits (3,021)
Love worketh no ill to his neighbour: therefore love is the fulfilling of the law (Romans 13:10).

Everyone deserves and qualifies to be loved, including those you may perceive to be "your enemies." Jesus said, "But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you" (Matthew 5:44). You don’t only love those who love you; you love everyone with the unconditional love of Christ.
All people are the same when it comes to love. Everyone has the capacity to give and receive love. Everyone wants to be loved, though not everyone wants to give it or respond to it. Love is the greatest power in the universe. It goes beyond cultural divides, religious barriers, ethnic differences, and social stratifications.
Train yourself to walk in love. It’s a conscious choice you have to make; it’ll transform your life. In John 13:34, Jesus said, "A new commandment I give unto you, that ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another." Tell yourself, "I’m going to walk in love, no matter what. I’m going to love others genuinely, even when their actions aren’t deserving of love."
The Bible tells us that God demonstrated His love for us, while we were undeserving of kindness: "But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us" (Romans 5:8). We’re therefore to love like Him, as His beloved children: "Be ye therefore followers of God, as dear children; And walk in love, as Christ also hath loved us, and hath given himself for us an offering and a sacrifice to God for a sweet-smelling savour" (Ephesians 5:1-2).
To walk with God is to walk in love. 1 John 4:7-8 says, "Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love." Let your life be the out-shining of His love.
Confession

My life is the expression of the love of the Father. I abound in love today, towards those in my world, and beyond, and declare that my heart is established, blameless and in holiness before the Lord, for His love is perfected in me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
further study: John 13:35; 1 John 4:7-8; 1 Thessalonians 3:12-13

: 2 Thessalonians 3:1-18 Jeremiah 3-4
: Hbrews 9:1-10 Ezekiel 16

JOSEPH PRINCE DAILY GRACE INSPIRATIONS - TUESDAY, OCTOBER 18TH 2016 - Heir Of The World Today




Heir Of The World Today

Romans 4:13
13For the promise that he would be the heir of the world was not to Abraham or to his seed through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.

God promised Abraham that he would be the heir of the world. Now, don’t be too quick to say, “Well, that promise was made only to Abraham and not me.” The verse says, “For the promise that he would be the heir of the world was not to Abraham or to his seed through the law, but through the righteousness of faith.” So the promise was not just made to Abraham, but to “his seed” as well, that is, you and I who belong to Christ — “And if you are Christ’s, then you are Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise.” (Galatians 3:29)

Notice that God did not say that you would be the heir of the country you are living in, but heir of the world! The Greek word for “world” here is kosmos, which means the universe as well as the whole circle of earthly goods, endowments, advantages and pleasures. All these are yours to inherit through the righteousness of faith in Jesus and His finished work at the cross. This righteousness is given to you as a gift from God, so you don’t have to earn it through good works.

For God to fulfill His promise, He has to prosper you. You can’t be the heir of the world and be in lack or in debt! Not only that, He must keep you healthy because you can’t inherit the world when you are sick and always flat on your back.

Don’t listen to people who tell you that you will only get to enjoy these blessings when you get to heaven one fine day. Why would you need riches in heaven? There, even the streets are made of pure gold. (Revelation 21:21) And why would you need healing in heaven? There is no sickness there. So you need the health and provision in the here and now!

Beloved, God wants you to be the heir of the world today. So lay hold of your rich inheritance today. Jesus paid for it with His blood. Don’t push it all to the sweet by and by

Monday, 17 October 2016

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES - MONDAY, OCTOBER 17TH 2016 - Be Conscious Of The Power That Works In You




Be Conscious Of The Power That Works In You · monday ·

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, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen (Ephesians 3:20-21).


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 Holy Spirit is the power of the Godhead and He lives in you in His fullness: "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you…" (Acts 1:8). His power is working in your spirit. Our theme verse says, "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…." What an inspiring thought!

Notice that it didn’t say, "…according to the power that worketh in heaven." This explains that you have a role in the operations of the miraculous and supernatural in your life. The glory of God is manifested in your life according to the power that works in you. You can trust this power, because it’s the power of the Holy Spirit. Activate and put it to work at all times, and it’ll produce results for you.

Even though God, in His sovereignty, can cause certain things to happen for you, He doesn’t want to work independent of you. Some Christians often feel discouraged and frustrated because they’re "praying to God to do something for them," yet to no avail. The issue isn’t with God; they’re the ones to activate the power of God in them, to bring about the desired changes.

Become conscious that God lives in you. His power is in your spirit. Activate that power to work for you by conscious meditation on the Word, and speaking in tongues. Bring that power to bear on anything, or any area of your life. Refuse to think failure, defeat, or impossibilities; acknowledge that the ability of the Spirit has been granted you to achieve supernatural results, and speak accordingly.

Confession

Christ is my life and my sufficiency; He energizes me through and through and His grace is sufficient for me in all things. I can do all things through the supernatural ability of the Spirit that’s at work in me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: 2 Corinthians 3:5; Colossians 1:29; Acts 1:8; Micah 3:8

: 2 Thessalonians 2:1-17 Jeremiah 1-2

: Hebrews 8:1-13 Ezekiel 14-15

F. O. J. Y. M BIWEEKLY SOUL BREAD VOLUME 7 PART 30 - Forgiveness By Grace 22




The FRIENDS OF JESUS YOUTHS MINISTRY Int.

    Biweekly Soul Bread
      Volume 7 part 31
 Friday October 14,2016.

Topic :
The Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ
    (Forgiveness By Grace-2)

Good morning dear friend of Jesus.

We are still looking at the truth that you were forgiven all your sins only because of the perfect sacrifice(effort) of Jesus Christ alone,not by your own self efforts of always trying to confess your sins and by so doing, activating sin consciousness.

"Then Jesus said, "Father forgive them,for they do not know what they do."...
(Luke 23:34-NKJV).

From this scripture above, we would see Jesus pleading for those who even did not believe in him and so had him crucified! Would God forgive them?...well yes. Because in the Gospel of John 11:41-42 Jesus tells us that the Father always hears his prayers. But did those unbelievers confess their sins at that moment?--though I believe that the gracious action of Jesus would eventually change them--no!  Jesus only asked for them to be forgiven by his own Grace.!

Hmm..if Jesus could ask forgiveness for those unbelievers, so we should now understand what the Bible means when it says:

"My little children,i am telling you this so that you will stay away from sin. But if you sin,there is someone to plead for you before the Father. His name is Jesus Christ, the one who is all that is good and who pleases God completely."(1st John 2:1TLB).

John, there, is not saying that if you sin go and confess your sins before you have your forgiveness. No the Bible says you already have the forgiveness of your sins(Ephesians1:7).

Now, in case you are asking a question in your mind that ...what about where John says "if we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us?"... The answer to that question will come in subsequent soul bread. Watch out for it.

God bless you.

Further Bible Reading :
Luke 23:39-43.

Prayer points :
1)Father i thank you for the complete forgiveness of all the sins of my entire life.
2)Lord help to realize this truth as an encouragement to live a holy life that glorifies you.

Action:
 meditate and share with friends and family on social media networks.

FOJYM... making youths intimate friends of God.

Enquiries:
Obayomi Anthony
(Gen. Coordinator)
 2348058449169.

NEW CREATION REALITIES - VOL 1 PART 4 - WELCOME TO GOD'S FAMILY (Knowing Your Father 2)



*NEW CREATION REALITIES*

*UNDERSTANDING WHO YOU ARE IN CHRIST JESUS*

📖 *SPIRITUAL REALITIES* 📖

Date: Sunday 16th of October 2016.

*VOLUME ONE (PT. 4)*
*WELCOME TO THE FAMILY OF GOD*
*(Ephesians 2:19)*

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Topic:- (KNOWING YOUR FATHER - Pt. 2)
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Good day my dear friends. Happy sunday!!! 

Today we are looking at the truth that your Father(God the Father) is a Free Giver, He gives Freely.

Look at the scripture below:

"Now we have received not the spirit of the world, but the Spirit who is from God, that we might know the things that have been *FREELY* given to us by God"
(1st Corinthians 2:12 - NKJV)

Dear friends, the above scripture tells us plainly that the Lord your Father has given you so many blessings freely in Christ Jesus. That is, for you who are in Jesus Christ Today, you have all the blessings of God freely because the word of God above says they have been FREELY Given to you.

But you may ask. "Really? But there must be conditions. Even Deuteronomy 28:1-2 says that before we receive the following blessings we must carefully observe all His commandments"

Dear Friend, you are right. The spiritual truth is that Jesus Christ Himself has fulfilled all those laws and commandments that were given by God through Moses. He said He didn't come to do away with the law but to fulfill the law (Matthew 5:17) and He fulfilled the Law through His death on the Cross, He satisfied  the righteous requirements to receiving God's blessings. So you are no longer under the law.

So now that Jesus has fulfilled all those conditions on your behalf, those blessings are free for you, they are no longer conditional. For you to give yourself another condition means you are making light of Jesus' Sacrifice on the Cross; it means you want to pay your own price to receive God's blessings and so Jesus died for nothing! Don't frustrate the grace of GOD! God isn't demanding two prices. It's only ONE PRICE which has ALREADY been paid.

God your Father has made all those blessings available for you IN CHRIST JESUS FREELY, so all you have to do is to RECEIVE, RECEIVE and RECEIVE FREELY just like the prodigal son who didn't do anything at all to deserve his father's blessings when he returned home but got them all freely. God's gifts to you are UNEARNED and UNMERITED.

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THOUGHT: a "Gift" means something you didn't work for, it is unearned, and given by grace. If it were worked for then it is no longer a gift.
Jesus is God's GIFT to mankind, the world didn't "earn" Him. God sent Him FREELY
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Further Bible Reading:
Romans 4:16 (TLB.)
Philippians 4:19 (TLB)

PRAYER POINTS:
1) Dear Father, thank you for you supply all my needs according to your RICHES in Glory and not according to my works of right and wrong.
2) Dear Jesus, thank you for you are My Qualification to God's blessings and gifts.

ACTION...Read, Meditate and Understand this message by the Holy Spirit. Also share with friends and families on social networks worldwide.

GOD BLESS YOU.

NEW CREATION REALITIES - VOL 1 PART 3 - WELCOME TO GOD'S FAMILY (Knowing Your Father 1)


*NEW CREATION REALITIES*



*UNDERSTANDING WHO YOU ARE IN CHRIST*

*SPIRITUAL TRUTHS*

Sunday 9th of October 2016.

*WELCOME TO GOD'S FAMILY*
*(Ephesians 2:19 GNB)*

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Topic:-
(KNOWING YOUR FATHER Pt. 1)
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Good day friends. A child knows his father. we shall be studying the veracity that your Father, God the Father is a compassionate Father.

Bible text: "in all their AFFLICTIONS, HE (GOD) was AFFLICTED and the Angel of His Presence saved them, in His love and in His pity, He redeemed them.."
Isaiah 63:9 (NKJV)

The word "AFFLICTIONS" means "PAINS", it means "SUFFERINGS". The Scripture tells us that our sufferings and afflictions are also God's sufferings and afflictions. GOD is moved by the challenges we go through in the world. That means whatever pain or tribulation you are going through, they are also hurting JESUS and JESUS loves to help you. A compassionate person is someone who feels sympathy, he sympathizes with someone else's troubles and doesn't delight in it and that is Jesus Christ!

He feels exactly the same way you feel because He came as a human being and He went through tribulations also, so there is no challenge Jesus cannot identify with, neither is there a challenge that Jesus doesn't understand. He carried the nature of man, so He knows what it means to go through sufferings too and He cannot afford to see you overwhelmed by those troubles.

You may ask, "what about God the Father? He didn't come as a man, you know..."

GOD and JESUS are ONE. If Jesus feels sympathy and doesn't delight in your sufferings, God must feel the same way. Their feelings concerning you are no different. So BE STILL and KNOW that HE is GOD, trust him and HE will deliver you because:

"Many are the AFFLICTIONS of the righteous but the LORD delivers him out of them all" - Psalms 34:19(NKJV).

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Thought: the LORD, your Father is not far away from you in times of troubles and challenges, remember that the Teacher is always silent during the test.
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Further Bible Reading:
Mark 1:40-41
Psalms 103:13
Hebrews 4:15

NOTE: Tribulations in today's message simply means challenges and troubles and not "The Great Tribulation".

PRAYER POINTS:
1. Thank you eternal Father because not even tribulations(challenges) can separate me from your love (Romans 8:35)

2. Thank you LORD JESUS because you identify with all my afflictions and WILL always help me go through them victoriously.

3. HOLY SPIRIT I pray that during the times of challenges, you will always fill my heart with the PEACE OF JESUS so that I can easily trust God to be exalted in the situation.

ACTION...Read, Meditate and Understand this message; also share with friends and families on social networks(WhatsApp, Facebook etc) world wide.

GOD BLESS YOU EXCEEDINGLY.😘

OPEN HEAVENS I KNOW YOUR WORKS II – Monday October 17th 2016





I KNOW YOUR WORKS II – Monday October 17th 2016
Memorise: He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the Churches. Revelation 2:29

Read: Revelation 2:8-11, (KJV)

8 And unto the angel of the church in Smyrna write; These things saith the first and the last, which was dead, and is alive;

9 I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.

10 Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer: behold, the devil shall cast some of you into prison, that ye may be tried; and ye shall have tribulation ten days: be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.

11 He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; He that overcometh shall not be hurt of the second death.

Bible in one year: Hosea 1-5, Psalms 80:1-7



MESSAGE

The Almighty Father knows all that we do, nothing we do is hidden from Him. This should make us rejoice because it means that our Master knows our works, (assuming that our works are good) and He will appreciate and commend us for them. In other words, even if people don’t appreciate us or if they misunderstood us, God never misunderstoods. Open Heavens 17 October 2016:- I Know your works II. In Revelation 2:9, the Lord sent a message of goodwill to the Church in Smyrna:

 “I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are the synagogue of Satan.

There are beautiful things to note from the above scripture: Jesus knows about the tribulation we are passing through. Little wonder one of the saints of old wrote a hymn titled: “There’s not a Friend like the Lowly Jesus.” The Chorus reads:

Jesus knows all about our struggles,

He will guide till the day is done;

There’s not a friend like the lowly Jesus,

No, not one! No, not one!

Another interesting thing about today’s Bible reading is the courage that the Master gave to the Church in Smyrna. He said: “Fear none of those things which thou shalt suffer….be thou faithful unto death, and I will give thee a crown of life.” Beloved, this is a message from Jesus, the Lover of your soul. Before this time, in John 16:33, Jesus made a categorical statement void of ambiguity.

“These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.”

Jesus further assured us of the great reward of escaping the second death if we will strive to overcome (Revelation 2:11). May the Lord help us to overcome in Jesus’ name. 17 October 2016 Open Heavens.

 Prayer point

Father, strengthen my inner man so that I may stand strong till the very end.

Please Do Share This Message and God Bless You

JOSEPH PRINCE DAILY GRACE INSPIRATIONS - MONDAY, OCTOBER 17TH 2016 - Behold The Glory Of Jesus In You


Behold The Glory Of Jesus In You



2 Corinthians 3:18
18But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord.



When you look in a mirror, what do you see? Of course, you see yourself. But God does not want you to see yourself in the natural. You may be sick, weak, broke and depressed, yet God wants you to see yourself the way He sees you — healed, strong, favored and whole because Christ is in you. (Colossians 1:27)

God wants you to behold as in a mirror the glory of His Son who is in you by His Spirit. As you do this, His Word says that you are being transformed from glory to glory — from sick to healed, loser to winner!

The world may say to you, “It can’t be that easy. You can’t be transformed just by beholding the glory of Jesus. No, you must do something about you. If you don’t put in effort, nothing will happen. If you don’t start making changes, nothing will change.”

But the world will never understand that as you are beholding the glory of the Lord, who is the successful one in you, you are being transformed from a failure to a success. And this is not accomplished by any effort of yours to get ahead in life, but by the Spirit of the Lord! (Zechariah 4:6)

As you behold the glory of the Lord who is the healthy one in your sick body, you are transformed from sickness to health. And this is not accomplished by any effort of yours to keep fit and eat well, but by the Spirit of the Lord!

My friend, what can be easier than beholding the beauty of the Son? So stop focusing on yourself and your efforts. Look away from these things and begin to behold the glory of Jesus who is in you right now, and you will begin to behold the miracles that you need!

Sunday, 16 October 2016

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES - SUNDAY, OCTOBER 16TH 2016 - Features Of Your New Nature




Features Of Your New Nature · sunday ·
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law (Galatians 5:22-23).

A day-old child is as human as a ninety-yearold adult; but there’re characteristics of the human life that are yet to be developed in the child. Likewise, when you were born again, you were born with all the unique and distinct features of the recreated human spirit listed in our opening verse. Which means there’s love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, and temperance in your spirit.
As you study and live out the Word, these spiritual characteristics that are already in you will come to the fore; you’ll manifest them in greater measure. The forces of life are domiciled in your spirit, but you’ve got to cultivate them! God’s life, character, and nature are already in your spirit; but you must spend time to cultivate and nurture your spirit by learning and meditating on the Word. 1 Peter 2:2 says that you should desire the sincere milk of the Word that you may grow thereby.
Real spiritual maturity means that you’re bearing fruits of righteousness, and your fruits abide. It means the works of righteousness are being manifested in your words and actions. Train yourself to walk in love. Manifest and express joy, peace, patience, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness.
Notice that the Bible says, "…against such there is no law." There’s no law or culture that’s against walking in love; love is generally accepted by all peoples of the earth. Likewise, there’s no law that says you shouldn’t be joyful, peaceful, patient, gentle, or kind. There’s no law that forbids faith, meekness or self-restraint. These are intrinsic features of the recreated human spirit; the unregenerate man doesn’t have them. Therefore, be free to lavishly express and manifest the characteristics of your new nature in Christ.
Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for your life and nature in my spirit, and your grace that’s at work in me mightily to walk in your light and fulfil your desires at all times. As I meditate on the Word, the divine attributes of my spirit are nurtured and manifested through me to bless my world. I’m an embodiment of love, joy, peace, meekness, gentleness, goodness, faith and temperance, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
further study: Matthew 7:15-20; Ephesians 4:21-24

: 2 Thessalonians 1:1-12 Isaiah 64-66
: Hebrews 7:11-28 Ezekiel 12-13

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES - SATURDAY, 15TH OCTOBER 2O16 - Hear And Think Right



Hear And Think Right · saturday · 

For as he (a man) thinketh in his heart, so is he… (Proverbs 23:7).


Change is something we all want, should have, and continually crave; change from glory to glory. Change, whether positive or negative, results from the words you pay attention to, and the thoughts they stir up in your heart. The Lord Jesus taught His disciples to hear and think right. In Mark 4:24, He said, "...Take heed what ye hear…." Then in Luke 8:18, He said, "Take heed therefore how ye hear…." 

How you hear is as important as what you hear, because how you hear often determines your response and attitude, as well as the ability to appropriate the power of the words that come to you. Words make or mar. Our lives are influenced by words; the atmosphere in your home depends on the words that are spoken therein. Your relationships are built on words. Our lives are so dependent on words that, not only do they affect our attitudes, they also affect our health and living conditions. 

Whether or not you’re living in faith or in fear is a function of what you hear. Faith comes by hearing God’s Word. God’s Word contains positive information that bolsters faith, while fear comes through negative information. Many today have become faint-hearted from listening to media reports on the deplorable state of the world’s economy. If only they’d turn their attention to the Lord and His infallible Word! 

Job 22:29 says when men are cast down, then you shall say there’s lifting up. You’re in the world, but not of the world. Your prosperity and success are independent of the vagaries of nature, economics, and economies of this world. Have this consciousness. Think like a victor. Live as a champion. 1 John 4:4 says, "Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world." 

Believe and accept the integrity of God’s Word. Think the Word-way. God has given you His Word as the veritable agent to change and transform your life from glory to glory: "But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord" (2 Corinthians 3:18). 

Confession 

The Word is growing mightily and prevailing in me; I’m making progress by the Word, heaping up success upon success. There’s prosperity, joy and increase in my life, and Christ is exalted and glorified in me today, in the Name of Jesus! Amen.

further study: Mark 11:23; Romans 12:2; Philippians 4:8

: 1 Thessalonians 5:1-28 Isaiah 61-63

: Hebrews 7:1-10 Ezekiel 10-11

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES - FRIDAY, OCTOBER 14TH 2016 - Words Mean Everything




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


The greatest gift given to man in his natural life is the gift of words; the ability to express himself in words. It’s an extraordinary gift from God to human
beings.

Your inner personality comes out in words. Your words are important; words mean everything. Sadly, many haven’t realized this, and it’s the major reason they live ordinary lives here on earth. Everything God gave us is activated through words.

Our very salvation depends on words. You received salvation by words; you maintain salvation by words. Whether you live or die is dependent on your words. Whether you live in sickness or health, poverty or wealth, victory or defeat, depends on your words.

The Lord gave you the ability to speak; to use your mouth to chart your course aright in life. Your mouth wasn’t given to you primarily for eating and drinking and communicating with others; the primary function of your mouth and your tongue is to steer your life in God’s direction for you. Learn to talk right.

Talking right means talking the Word only and always. It also means valuing what you say; learning to keep promises. Your words must have integrity; they must mean something to you. There’re people who are careless with words When they talk to you, they know their words don’t mean anything because they don’t plan to keep it.

You must say what you mean, and mean what you say. Don’t speak idle, inoperative words. In Matthew 12:36, the Lord Jesus said, “But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” God holds you accountable for the things you say. Don’t make careless statements, for they’ll produce results for you.

One of the ways the world around you can see Jesus in you is through your character, which is often expressed in your words. Therefore, speak wholesome, gracious words every time and everywhere.

Make it a conscious exercise to store God’s Word in your heart, for out of the abundance of the heart, the mouth speaks (Matthew 12:34). As God’s Word dwells richly in your heart, you’ll develop and speak the right words; gracious and faith-filled words.


Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for showing me the importance and value of words. I live by your Word; therefore, my communication is modelled in line with your thoughts, precepts, and direction for my life. I speak faith-filled words always, knowing that my words are filled with power to transform my life and chart my course in victory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen

Further Study : Mark 11:23; James 3:2-6

Thursday, 13 October 2016

SPIRITUAL TRUTH - Refuse To Worry




REFUSE TO WORRY

Worry is a thief and it steals;
i. Your joy
ii. your time
And it keeps you busy doing NOTHING.

Surprisingly, worry is what keeps people longer in tribulations they should have long been out of. Jesus says  "Let not your hearts be troubled"(John 14:1)

Paul says "Be joyful always" (1st Thess. 5:16)

He also said "Be careful for nothing.."-(Philippians 4:6).

GOD himself also said "Fear not.."(Isaiah 41:10).

Search the Scriptures,  Worry is not in line with God's plan for your spiritual life. Refuse to take in negative thoughts. And whatever causes you to worry, share them with God.

"let Him have all your worries and cares for He is always thinking about you and watching everything that concerns you" - 1st Peter 5:7(TLB).

GOD always have you in mind. He feels those pains exactly the way you do since He came in the person of a human being, Jesus Christ. He passed through challenges like you.

So REFUSE to worry. Tell the devil "There is nothing to worry about''.

God bless you all.

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES - THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13TH 2016 - Turn The Searchlight On Yourself




Turn The Searchlight On Yourself .

Thursday, October 13th .
Pastor Chris

Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you…? (2 Corinthians 13:5).

Everyone is the expression of what he or she believes. Your daily life is the loudest voice that gives expression to your belief. As a Christian, therefore, it’s easy for you to review what you truly believe, and determine whether or not you’re living the authentic Christian life by examining yourself and your actions.

Turn the searchlight on yourself. Ask yourself, “What kind of life am I living?” “What have I been like?” “Am I expressing the love of Christ in truth?” “Has the Word affected my communication, to manifest the Kingdom of God in humility and in righteousness?” You need to ponder on such thoughts from time to time as you evaluate your life with the sole purpose of building and maintaining an excellent character. Be sure that you’ve been putting the Word to work in your personal life. Be sure that your will and emotions are always yielded to the Lordship of the Word.

Be sure that you’re a man or woman of your words. Put yourself to the test and constantly evaluate your life and actions with the Word, to be sure that you’re living in faith.

There’re lots of people who have never taken the time to look at themselves. Now, I’m not talking about looking at oneself in a mirror. I mean they don’t have moments of personal reflection where they truly assess themselves. It’s something you have to do occasionally; measuring your personal growth and progress in life, with and through the Word. You don’t need someone else to do that for you.

Think about yourself. Who are you? What do you really think about the message of salvation, health, prosperity, and love that you’ve received? Are you still dominated by fear, jealousy, and pride? Are you one who gets angry, and it only takes the power of God to tame you?

Evaluate your life with the Word today. Prove yourself with the Word. The Word of God is the infallible material to you from God to transform your life from glory to glory. It’s what you need to cultivate an excellent life and character: a character of love, kindness, purity, grace and mercy. Build your life with it.

                   PRAYER

I thank you, precious Father, for the power and impact of your Word in my life. Your Word has given me the right mind-set and built in me an excellent character. I’m the reflection and reflector of your glory, grace, love, truth, and righteousness. Your Word has preeminence in my life today and always, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || Acts 24:16 And herein do I exercise myself, to have always a conscience void of offence toward God, and [toward] men. ||

|| 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. ||

|| 2 Corinthians 13:5 Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates? ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Thessalonians 2:17-3:1-13,
Isaiah 57-58

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 6:1-10,
Ezekiel 7

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

OPEN HEAVENS DIVINE PARTNERSHIP – Thursday October 13th 2016




DIVINE PARTNERSHIP – Thursday October 13th 2016
Memorise: Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble. Psalms 41:1

Read: Psalms 41:1-3, (KJV)

 1 Blessed is he that considereth the poor: the Lord will deliver him in time of trouble.

2 The Lord will preserve him, and keep him alive; and he shall be blessed upon the earth: and thou wilt not deliver him unto the will of his enemies.

3 The Lord will strengthen him upon the bed of languishing: thou wilt make all his bed in his sickness.

Bible in one year: Daniel 4:34-6:28, Psalms 78:17-39



MESSAGE

When is the link between divine partnership and consideration of the poor? As we may know, divine partnership has to do with partnering with the Almighty God. What is the connection between being in the same business with God and our attitude towards the poor? In our Bible reading for today, we discover that when we remember and help the poor, the Lord will deliver us from trouble. The reason is that the Almighty God watches over the poor and listens to their cry. Open Heavens 13 October 2016:- Divine Partnership. When you respond to the cry of the poor, you are responding on behalf of their Maker who will in return replenish your pocket. The Bible says in Proverbs 19:17:

“He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the Lord; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.”

Another thing that will happen to someone in divine partnership is that the fellow shall be preserved. The tendency is high and it is common to many cultures that the poor live at the mercy of the rich. In Isaiah 3:14, the Bible says:

“The Lord will enter into judgment with the ancients of his people and the princes thereof: for ye have eaten up the vineyard; the spoil of the poor is in your houses.”

So, when someone decides to take care of the poor instead of maltreating them, the Lord will preserve the fellow so that he can continue the good work. The one who panthers with God in taking care of the poor earns longevity for himself. The Lord promised in His Word that whoever spares the poor of violence shall live. The Bible says that the poor shall never cease out of the land, therefore, He commanded us to remember the poor and the needy (Deuteronomy 15:4-11). When we partner with God in taking care of the poor, the Lord will bless us mightily beyond our wildest imagination.

Another blessing which accrues from partnering with God via taking care of the poor, is that the Lord promised to deliver us from the will of our enemies. Every right thinking fellow will do all things possible to keep a dutiful servant alive. Divine healing is the portion of whoever will take it upon himself to care for the poor on behalf of God. The Lord promised to visit the caretakers of the poor on their sick beds if at all they become sick; and when He visits, healing is guaranteed.

The Lord also promised to make your bed for you if you will remember the poor and meet him at the point of his or her need. Beloved, there are many ways whereby we can partner with God; caring for the poor is one. 13 October 2016 open heaven. We can learn a lesson from developed countries that take care of the poor. They are more comfortable than those countries which have no plan for the poor in the land. This is a food for thought for developing countries.

Action Point

Draw up a charity plan for the poor around you and prayerfully embark on helping them in your own little way

JOSEPH PRINCE DAILY GRACE INSPIRATIONS - THURSDAY, OCTOBER 13TH 2016 - Christ Is Our Mercy Seat





Christ Is Our Mercy Seat

Psalm 91:1
1He who dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty.

In the Old Testament, there was a place where God met with His people. In Exodus 25:22, God said, “And there I will meet with you, and I will speak with you from above the mercy seat, from between the two cherubim which are on the ark of the Testimony...” This place was above the mercy seat of the ark of the covenant, under the wings of the two cherubim. The psalmist calls it “the secret place of the Most High... under the shadow of the Almighty”.

The mercy seat covered the ark which contained the three emblems of man’s rebellion: the golden pot of manna — man’s rebellion against God’s provision, two tablets of stone on which God wrote the Ten Commandments — man’s rebellion against God’s standard, and Aaron’s rod — man’s rebellion against God’s authority. Once a year on the Day of Atonement, the high priest would sprinkle the blood of the sacrificed animal on the mercy seat and so make propitiation for the sins of Israel.

Today, it is not the blood of animals that makes propitiation for our sins, but the holy blood of the Son of God. (Romans 3:24–25) The word for “propitiation” in the original Greek text is hilasterion, which actually means “mercy seat”. So Christ is our mercy seat. His blood speaks for us and puts God on our side. God does not see our rebellion. He sees the blood of His Son and accepts us!

That is why we can come boldly to the secret place of the Most High, in Christ, and feel secure that we have every right to be in God’s presence. We can come boldly to Him to obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need. (Hebrews 4:16)

And because Christ, our mercy seat, covers us with His blood, we are under God’s protection. We are in the secret place of the Most High, abiding under the shadow of the Almighty. Here, no evil will befall us, nor will any plague come near our dwelling. (Psalm 91:9–10) In the secret place of the Most High, we are favored and kept safe from all harm!

Wednesday, 12 October 2016

OPEN HEAVENS THE BELIEVER’S AUTHORITY II – Wednesday October 12th 2016




THE BELIEVER’S AUTHORITY II – Wednesday October 12th 2016

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

Read: Luke 10:17-20, (KJV)

17 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.

20 Notwithstanding in this rejoice not, that the spirits are subject unto you; but rather rejoice, because your names are written in heaven.

Bible in one year: Daniel 3:1-4:33, Psalms 78:9-16



MESSAGE

As it was pointed out yesterday, the power and authority which Jesus Christ has made available to believers cannot be imagined by natural minds. Some people subject themselves to life-long bondage because they are looking for power and protection outside Jesus. Open Heavens 12 October 2016:- The Believers Authority II  Hebrews 2:14-15 says:

“Forasmuch then as the children are partakers of flesh and blood, he also himself likewise took part of the same; that through death he might destroy him that had the power of death, that is, the devil; And deliver them who through fear of death were all their lifetime subject to bondage.”


One of my spiritual children testified that it was the grace of Jesus Christ that prevented him from entangling himself in occultism. Before he met the Lord, he had determined to join as many secret societies as could be found on the earth, to ensure his security. Fortunately for him, he met the Lord and he is now exercising the authority of a believer.

Beloved, the believer’s authority is yours if you genuinely accept Jesus Christ. This authority was given to us without measure. Our Lord said He has given to us authority over all the powers of the enemy and that nothing will by any means hurt us. When we rely on this, we will live our lives in peace even in the midst of a storm. Our Lord Jesus Christ is in the boat, it will not capsize.

However, we must use the authority to our advantage. The story was told of a man who inherited magical powers to ward off evil and dispel whoever might want to harm him on a journey which he set for himself. As he started on the journey, he sighted robbers, taking the song to be true of the man, ran away for their lives. And that was how the woman saved the day for her husband.

The lesson we should learn from this story is that, though the authority to conquer the devil and his cohorts are available, unless we exercise it in holy boldness, we remain as powerless ad though it isn’t available. To exercise authority over sickness, demonic oppression, poverty and all unpleasant situations, we need to be believers indeed by being born again through faith in Jesus Christ our Saviour. Also, we need to live according to the Word of God.

We must be doers of the Word because it is the authority of the Word that we honour that can help us in times of trouble.

Action Point

Begin to exercise faith the Son of the Living God, and you will experience the supernatural.

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES - WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12TH 2016 - Maintaining Focus In Prayer




Maintaining Focus In Prayer · wednesday ·
For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful (1 Corinthian 14:14).

One vital element of effective prayer is focusing your mind on what you’re praying about. Imagine that someone is praying for the salvation of souls in a particular region of the world. He’s interceding that, through the preaching and teaching of the Word, God’s righteousness would prevail in the towns, hinterlands, and cities without hindrance. While at it, his mind wanders away, and he’s thinking about some nice cars, houses or a meeting he’s scheduled with a friend. His prayer would hardly be effective that way, and this happens to a lot of people.

Focusing your mind, emotions and entire faculties on what you’re praying about is very important, and praying in the Spirit is a great advantage in this regard. When you pray in the Spirit, your spirit prays; your mind is unfruitful (1 Corinthians 14:14). Therefore, it’s important that you yield yourself to the Spirit by giving Him your mind—paying attention to Him as you pray. That way, you’ll be in sync with Him; His visions, promptings, ideas and thoughts will be clear to you.

Praying in the Spirit gets you synchronized with God’s will, His purpose, and timing. But your mind has a role in this; you must get your thoughts together as you pray in tongues. You might say, "As much as I try, I just can’t help it; my mind keeps drifting as I pray." Maintaining focus in prayer is something you do consciously. Your mind is a tool. You’d have to discipline your mind to think in the direction of your prayers, and switch it back to that thing you’re praying about. If it wanders again, bring it back until your mind gets the message.
In prayer, arrest your mind; channel your thoughts and emotions in the direction of the Spirit, and you’ll receive the ministrations of the Holy Spirit.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for the tremendous blessings and impact of speaking in other tongues. As I set my mind on the realities of your Kingdom and pray in the Spirit, I’m aligned and in sync with your will, purpose, and direction for me, fulfilling your perfect will and bringing you glory in all things, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study:

1 Corinthians 14:14-15; 1 Corinthians 14:39; Jude 1:20

: 1 Thessalonians 1-2:1-16 Isaiah 54-56
: Hebrews 5:1-14 Ezekiel 5-6

JOSEPH PRINCE DAILY GRACE INSPIRATIONS - WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 12th 2016 - Joint Heirs With Christ Jesus




Joint Heirs With Christ Jesus

Romans 8:16–17
16The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, 17and if children, then heirs — heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ...

As long as you are born again, you are no longer a “slave”, but a son of the Most High God. And God does not just call you His son. He also calls you “an heir” through Christ. (Galatians 4:7) In fact, Romans 8:17 says that you are “joint heirs” with Christ.

As a joint heir with Christ Jesus, you inherit everything that He is. How precious Jesus is to the Father, is how precious you are to the Father. The way the Father loves Jesus, is the way the Father loves you!

How accepted are you by God today? Look at Jesus. That is how accepted you are! Christ is the measure of your acceptance. How favored are you by God? Look at Jesus, who is seated at the Father’s right hand. You enjoy that same favor today because whatever Christ enjoys, you enjoy!

As a joint heir with Christ Jesus, you also inherit all that He has obtained from the Father. How much Jesus has, is how much you have. How prosperous is the one who made all things, and who put the gold, silver and diamonds in the earth? So are you in this world! (1 John 4:17)

I used to read the Bible to find out how to be a successful and victorious Christian. But now, I read it to find out more about Jesus because I know that when I find Him, I find my every blessing in Him. (Ephesians 1:3, 2 Peter 1:3)

My friend, all that Jesus is in heaven today, you are in this world. All that belongs to Him belongs to you. That is why it is in your interest to know Him more, to see Him in all His glory and beauty. And because Jesus is so glorious, it will take you a lifetime to discover everything that He has done for you and has for you.

Beloved, you are an heir of the Most High God. You are a joint heir with Christ Jesus. So find out all the blessings that your rich inheritance includes and start walking in them today!

F. O. J. Y. M BIWEEKLY SOUL BREAD VOL 7 PART 30 - Forgiveness Consciousness




The FRIENDS OF JESUS YOUTHS MINISTRY int.

  Biweekly soul Bread
   Volume 7 part 30
Tuesday October 11th,2016.

Topic:
The Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ
    (Forgiveness By Grace)

Dear friends of Jesus. Good day to you.

In today's soul bread we are looking at the truth that you are forgiven all your sins based on the Grace of our Lord Jesus Christ.

Consider this scripture below:

"in Him we have redemption through His blood, the FORGIVENESS of sins, ACCORDING TO THE RICHES OF HIS GRACE."
(Ephesians 1:7-NKJV).

Dear friend,in the previous soul bread parts, we have established the truth that all your sins:past,present,and future have all been forgiven. That is why the scripture above says we have the forgiveness of sins.

But most of us Christians think it is until we confess our sins that God will then forgive us. In fact many Christians even think that if we do not confess ALL our sins God will not forgive us. So we can as well think that if we committed five sins and confess four, God will not forgive that remaining one! And so we think God forgives us "IN INSTALMENTS"--bit by bit.

Friends,that is not true. Because God said "their sins and their lawless deeds i will remember no more"(Hebrews 8:12):you already have the forgiveness of your sins(Ephesians1:7).

Since God has blessed you with the total forgiveness of the sins of your entire life once and for all, when did that happen?,It happened when you received Jesus Christ as your Lord ,confessed your sins(1st John 1:9),and asked Him to be your savior. Since that day He has forgiven you all the sins of your entire life!

So now you don't need to be confessing your sins all the way,one by one, thinking that the forgiveness of your sins depends on your confession of sins,whereas the bible says it depends on the riches of His Grace -- unmerited,unearned favor: you cannot "merit " it by own efforts of always trying to confess your sins.

To be continued...

God bless you.

Further Bible Reading:
Hebrews 10:10
Luke 23:34
1st John 2:1

Prayer points:
1)Father i thank you for forgiving me all the sins of my entire life.
2)Lord Jesus, please give me the revelation of your complete forgiveness by the help of your Holy Spirit,so i can live a holy life that glorifies you. Amen.

Action:
Meditate and share with friends and family on social media networks.

FOJYM... making youths intimate friends of God.

Enquiries :
Obayomi Anthony
(Gen. Coordinator)
2348058449169.

F. O. J. Y. M BIWEEKLY SOUL BREAD VOL 7 PART 29 - Forgiveness Consciousness





THE FRIENDS OF JESUS YOUTHS MINISTRY int.

Biweekly Soul Bread
Friday, October 7th 2016.
     Volume 7 part 29

TOPIC:
The Grace Of Our Lord Jesus Christ
(Forgiveness Consciousness)

"For this is My blood of the new covenant, which [ratifies the agreement and] is being poured out for many for the forgiveness of sins.'
[ Matthew 26:28-AMP.]

Dear friends, good morning.

Today we are looking at the truth that you need to be conscious of the truth that God has FORGIVEN you ALL THE SINS OF YOUR LIFE according to the scripture above.

In the scripture above Jesus made it clear that he has shed his BLOOD for the forgiveness of your sins. And for this reason,whenever you have sinned, you should always remember at such times that ALL the sins of your life from start to the end have all been forgiven by God on the basis of the blood of Jesus Christ.

This is very important, or else we may become like Judas Iscariot. Peter and Judas Iscariot both committed the sin of betrayal against Jesus. But Peter was conscious of forgiveness. We can say so because Judas went to hang himself -he was not forgiveness conscious.

We should not say because we want to exercise Godly sorrow over our sins and end up running away from God.

Like the case of a wonderful brother who, because he has sinned, decided to stop spending time in the Lord's presence daily. Until the third day when he came across the message of grace on whatsapp that he then had the boldness again to go back to God. If he had continued to keep away from the Lord like he did at first, such a precious soul may be lost by going back to the world finally,and that is the plan of the enemy! And it is God who will give him the power to overcome subsequent temptations. He would never get the power himself!

That is why forgiveness consciousness is very important.

God bless you.

Further Bible Reading:
Acts 13:38
John 8:10-11
Colossians 1:20-23(TLB version)

prayer points :
1) Lord i thank you for forgiving me All my sins.
2)precious Holy Spirit help me to understand how totally I've been forgiven and always be mindful of it so i don't run away from God.

Action :
Think on these things and share with friends and family on social media networks world wide.

FOJYM... making youths intimate friends of God.

Enquiries :
Obayomi Anthony
(General coordinator)
08058449169.

Saturday, 8 October 2016

Open Heavens Daily Devotional - DIVINE PROVISION – Saturday October 8th 2016




DIVINE PROVISION – Saturday October 8th 2016

Memorise: But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19
Read: Matthew 17:24-27, (KJV)
24 And when they were come to Capernaum, they that received tribute money came to Peter, and said, Doth not your master pay tribute?

25 He saith, Yes. And when he was come into the house, Jesus prevented him, saying, What thinkest thou, Simon? of whom do the kings of the earth take custom or tribute? of their own children, or of strangers?

26 Peter saith unto him, Of strangers. Jesus saith unto him, Then are the children free.

27 Notwithstanding, lest we should offend them, go thou to the sea, and cast an hook, and take up the fish that first cometh up; and when thou hast opened his mouth, thou shalt find a piece of money: that take, and give unto them for me and thee.


Bible in one year: Ezekiel 42:1-44:14, Psalm 76
MESSAGE
Divine provision is in play when you know that what you have is not by your strength, power or ability. For example, when you work like a rat and you get the wages of an elephant without being fraudulent, you can be sure that the blessing is from above. One the contrary, when a man works like an elephant and all he can show for his labour is the wages of a rat, you can be sure that the fellow needs divine provision. The reason for the last scenario is the fall of man which earned him a curse associated with poverty and suffering. As a matter of fact, every man, particularly a child of God, needs divine provision to be able to make ends meet. This is the reason Paul, an apostle of Jesus Christ, told the Church at Philippi that God will supply all their needs according to His riches in glory through Jesus Christ, who has taken care of the sin that brought hardship and insufficiency to the life of man.

Divine provision begins with the provision God made for the atonement of our sins. God gave His only begotten Son as provision for our sins. John 3:16-17 says:

“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. For God sent not his Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through him might be saved.”

Having settled the problem of sin, the Lord now makes available to us the abundance of His riches, The death of Jesus Christ cancelled the curse that subjected us to a life of penury and made available to us divine provision. 2nd Corinthians 8:9 says:
“For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich.”

He demonstrated this by the thousands he fed with that incredibly small meal which He multiplied just so that the need of the people will be met. Also, in the Bible reading for today, divine provision came forth to meet His personal need and that of Peter from the mouth of a fish. I pray for someone reading this devotional today; the Almighty will cause His divine provision to come upon you and meet you at the point of your needs in Jesus’ name.
Prayer Point
Father, I present my needs to you today, please meet them all in Jesus’ name.

JOSEPH PRINCE DAILY GRACE INSPIRATIONS - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8TH 2016 - Proclaim The Lord's Death




Proclaim The Lord’s Death

1 Corinthians 11:26
26For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the Lord’s death till He comes.

In the Old Testament, whenever the children of Israel sacrificed a lamb for a burnt offering as they faced a strong enemy, victory was theirs. For example, in 1 Samuel 7:7–11, when the Philistines were coming against them, the prophet Samuel offered a lamb as a burnt offering. As it was being offered, the Lord came like a loud thunder on the Philistine army, confusing them. This led to victory for the Israelites.

Every time something bad happened to the children of Israel, by offering a lamb sacrifice, they were proclaiming the Lord’s death, and the battle would turn in their favor.

Today, when we are faced with an enemy, how do we offer our “burnt offering”? How do we proclaim the Lord’s death and come out victorious? Do we ask Jesus to come down to where we are at and die on the cross all over again?

Of course not. Jesus died once for all our sins — past, present and future. (Hebrews 10:12) His work is perfectly perfect and completely complete, so He doesn’t have to die for us again. Today, we proclaim His death simply by partaking of the Lord’s Supper.

Every time you partake of the bread and wine, you declare to the principalities and powers of darkness that the Lord’s death avails for you. Every time you partake, you are saying that because Jesus has been judged and punished in your place, you cannot be judged and punished. Because Jesus died young in your place, you will live long. And because He conquered death and stripped the devil of his powers, you will not be defeated. The victory is already yours!

That is why the psalmist David said, “You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies...” (Psalm 23:5) The Lord’s table is prepared for you in the presence of your enemies because when you partake of the bread and wine, you will see your enemies tremble and scatter! Why? Because when you proclaim the Lord’s death through the Holy Communion, you are reminding the devil and his cohorts of their humiliating defeat at Calvary’s cross! (Colossians 2:15)

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 8TH 2016 - Faith Gets The Lords Attention




Faith Gets The Lord’s Attention · 8 saturday
Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1).

Matthew 15:21-28 tells us the story of a Canaanite woman who wanted a miracle for her daughter and came to Jesus. She cried, "Master, have mercy on me; my daughter is terribly sick and oppressed by the devil." The Bible records that Jesus didn’t give her any attention. As the woman got importunate, the disciples of Jesus came to Him and urged him to send her away, because she kept crying after them.
Perhaps she realized that her crying wasn’t going to change anything; the Bible says, "Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me" (Matthew 15:25). When she did, it got the Master’s attention and He attended to her. He commended her faith and granted her request, for her worship was an act of faith. Her daughter was gloriously healed from that very hour.
When we worship the Lord, we get His attention. It’s not our complaining or longevity of our problems that gets His attention; it’s our faith; and worship is an act of faith. God is neither moved by the flesh, nor by long weeks of crying. He’s only moved by the response of the human spirit, and faith is the response of the human spirit to the Word of God. Sometimes, people think God should respond to them because they’ve been "good." They’d say, "Lord, I’m a good person; why then am I going through this situation?"
God isn’t moved by your situation or by the fact that you’re good. The Bible doesn’t say, "Without goodness, it’s impossible to please God"; it says, "But without faith it is impossible to please him" (Hebrews 11:6). You’re to resnd with your spirit to the Word; that’s what gets His attention. Faith doesn’t complain. Faith doesn’t beg. Faith insists on, and maintains the integrity of the Word. Faith is acting on the Word, refusing to stagger or give up in the face of staggering opposition. That’s what gets God’s attention.
Prayer

Dear Father, I worship you today. You’re the Most High, the living, true, wise, and faithful God; the healer, my provider, and the supplier of all good things. I extol your majesty, for you’re greater than all. Your Name is exalted, and glorified in all the earth, now and forever, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study: Matthew 9:20-22; Romans 4:19-21

: Colossians 1:24-2:1-5 Isaiah 46-47
: Hebrews 2:10-18 Lamentations 4-5

Friday, 7 October 2016

F. O. J. Y. M BIWEEKLY SOUL BREAD VOL 7 PART 28 - Living Holy By Grace 8




The FRIENDS OF JESUS YOUTHS MINISTRY International.

 Biweekly Soul Bread
    Volume 7part 28
Tuesday,October 4, 2016

TOPIC:
 The Grace of Our Lord Jesus Christ
(Living holy by Grace-8)

Dear friends of Jesus, you are welcome to eat today's soul bread.

We are still looking at how you can live a holy life by God's grace.

If you asked anybody the question: "how can you live a holy life? " The response most of the time would be: "ah it's by God's grace ooh". Even some unbelievers would answer the same way! Is that response a correct one? YES it is!

But the problem is that, are people really trusting in that grace of God to help them live the holy life? ...i don't know! Just like me, for several years now.

What is the problem? ...It is because most people do not know how to let(allow) grace to help them live that holy life! So we keep trying and failing! Is this how will continue?

Let's look at the scripture below:

"....., so also God's GRACE RULES BY MEANS OF RIGHTEOUSNESS leading us to eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord."
Romans 5:21(GNB)

This scripture above makes us know that grace reigns through righteousness. This means that the grace you actually need to help us live a holy life will reign, rule and dominate when you believe that you are righteous by your faith in Jesus Christ. That is, when you receive the GIFT of righteousness by your faith in Jesus, that is when you allow the grace of God to work for you and help you live a holy life.

That is how to allow the SPIRIT OF GRACE who is the Holy Spirit-Zechariah 12:10- to use HIS own power to help you live the holy life. Because somebody who is drowning in the water must stop struggling first so that he will allow the rescuer to rescue him, or else he may even drown the rescuer along with himself if possible!

So my friend,simply believe you are righteous and CONFESS it regularly then trust the Holy Spirit to help you from within you to gradually live the holy life by Grace.

Further Bible Reading:
Romans 8:10 (NIV)
2nd Corinthians 5:21
Zechariah 12:10

Prayer point:
1)Father i thank you for giving me the seed(gift) of your own righteousness so i can plant it in the ground of my heart by faith and so bring forth fruits of righteousness by the help of your Holy Spirit.

Action:
 Meditate well and share with friends on social networks across the globe.

 FOJYM... Making youths intimate friends of GOD.

 Enquiries :
Obayomi Anthony
(Gen Coordinator)
08058449169.