ojaysjoel blog

He hath made every thing beautiful in his time: also he hath set the world in their heart, so that no man can find out the work that God maketh from the beginning to the end. Ecclesiastes 3:11 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/ecc.3.11.KJV Devotion: Our God is awesome and wonderful and He makes everything beautiful in His time. When you see the bright uncountable number of Stars in the night sky and remember that God set them in their places you know that God is wonderful.   Imagine how a new born grows and becomes adult it is just marvelous. The human anatomy is the greatest engineering work one can imagine. That joints work perfectly for several decades and remain in perfect condition is a beautiful work of omnipotent God. The big trees tap water from the soil and within seconds it gets to the leaves several meters above even as trees don't have pipes inside. This is great engineering work by omnipotent God.  Imagine how you started 2023, remember what God did for you and y...

The LORD hath prepared his throne in the heavens; And his kingdom ruleth over all. Psalm 103:19 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.103.19.KJV Devotion: Since God created the universe and earth in it, there had been kingdoms and kingdoms but many of the kingdoms are no more. The had disappeared having been conquered by other kingdoms.  Presently some nations are lording it over others by placing restrictions on them. But surely no earthly kingdom will last forever another will overthrow it; God's kingdom has been since creation and it is still operating and will last forever. There's nothing happening on earth that is not under the control and influence of God.  When we believe this then we can have confidence of tomorrow, we can face difficulties knowing that God shall help us through it. If we believe in God's sovereignty over our lives we can plan our lives according to His plan for us.  A new year is approaching less than 48 hours from now, as we plan for the year let u...

He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength. Isaiah 40:29 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/isa.40.29.KJV Devotion: God loves the imperfect world and sent His perfect son to redeem the world. God's son Jesus Christ came into the world to do the work of salvation of the sinful world.  God knows that you and me are faint and we often mess up (sin) yet God loves us and blots out our sins when we call on him to. God gives us new power to start again because He's a God of second chance. God re-energizes us when our faith is little and shaky.  In some situations we seem totally powerless, we are not in control at such periods of our lives God is solidly behind us and He gives us strength to cross the river (Lamentations 3:22-23). He renews His spirit in our hearts so that we retrace our feets back to Jesus.  Therefore, dear reader do not despair or lose faith when you mess up, you're only human just like any other person. None of us is perfec...

As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. Galatians 6:10 KJV Devotion: This teaching is very important for any disciple of Jesus Christ especially new converts like the Galatians. You have been saved solely to safe others (Matt 28 vs 19). One way to do this is doing good to others thereby unbelievers will see your good work and ask to join you therefore you will have opportunity to win them for Christ.   Solomon in his godly wisdom said in Proverb 3:27 "Do not withhold good from the deserving when it is within your power to act" this is a very true teaching to follow. In the physical or secular jobs as you have opportunity you need to assist those deserving and be a good example for others to follow. On your street be a good Christian by reaching out to the less privilege. The still good clothes that you no longer use can keep some people warm, give it out. The indigent child will benefit from a scho...

"Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Matthew 7:9" Devotion : The LORD God Almighty is wiser in answering our prayer request than what man can possibly do. God is not insensitive to our request to give us what we have not asked for; He will possibly not give us what we ask for if what we are asking will destroy us because He loves us so much and cannot afford losing us.    If you are a child of God and it seems you are not receiving what you have prayed for, try to reexamine your request. Find out if the Holy Scriptures support your request; if the Word of God supports it then wait patiently for it in faith. As children of God, we should be students of the Holy Scripture so that we do not pray amiss (James 4:3).    Another reason may not get what asked for is sin, so first confess your sin and ask for forgiveness. If what you pray for will harm other people or you don't need it yet you may not receive answer to such prayer...

He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; And that which he hath given will he pay him again. Proverbs 19:17 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/pro.19.17.KJV Devotion: Today is boxing day, the day after Christmas, a day when gifts are packaged in boxes and sent out to families and friends. Today's verse is apt in that it encourages us to give to the less privileged in our society.  The season is a season of sharing of love and happiness. According to the verse above let's put a smile on the faces of our neighbours by sharing our meals with them, clothing them, helping the elderly in our neighbourhood, paying bills to keep them warm, giving scholarship to indigent pupils and students. If we do these we are only storing treasures up for our selves and at the right time we will harvest it.   Jesus in Matthew 25 vs 40 echoes the same verse when He says "And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, in as much as ye have done it unto one of the le...

And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. Matthew 1:21 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/mat.1.21.KJV Devotion: It's Christmas today, joy to the world for the Messiah was born. Jesus means one who will save His people.   Today there is evil all over the place children are being murdered in wars, life long properties are being destroyed and people are kidnapped for ransom. These are evidences that the world did not learn to enjoy the peace that Jesus brought to the world. So many people rather live like they are in animal kingdom where might is right. These days we talk not only of physical might but also economic might of nations which make them oppress other nations and place restriction on what others can do or not do.   Jesus, the Prince of Peace came and reached love and peace, saved His people from their sinful ways. Let's not make mistake Jesus will come a second time but not to save but to ju...

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, And on earth peace, good will toward men. Luke 2:13‭-‬14 KJV Devotion: Jesus Christ is the gift for the whole world. He was given to the whole world so that the people in the world can be saved and prosper therewith (John 3:16). When He was born, the angel of the Lord came to deliver this good news to the shepherds in the fields. They gave glory to God and declared the peace and goodwill of God to humanity.    God cannot stop loving people because they are created in the image of God (Genesis 1:27).  Dear beloved, God cannot stop loving you. He has your goodwill at heart; He thinks about you and wants your life to be filled with peace. Just as the angel of the Lord gave glory to God, you must also endeavour to give glory to God for giving Jesus Christ to you. If you have Jesus Christ, you have everything because He is the heir of God, and you are t...

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given: and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, The mighty God, The everlasting Father, The Prince of Peace.Isaiah 9:6 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/isa.9.6.KJV Devotion: The Nation of Israel was in turmoil and there was problem everywhere so God remembered His people and sent this prophecy to keep hope alive.  It is Christmas time but so many people are suffering, so many people have nothing to eat and hope is fading by the hour. They are really troubled and confused but God says rejoice, because you have Jesus. Like God parted the Red sea Jesus will make a way for you. (Exodus 14,: 21-22). You probably need miracle, Jesus is God he will feed you like he did in the wilderness.(Mark 6:41-44) Are you confused do not worry (Luke 12:22-31) the wonderful counselor is Jesus Christ he will guide you. You need peace? Don't worry the one who calmed the sea storm (Mark 4:39) will give you...

Therefore the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. Isaiah 7:14 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/isa.7.14.KJV Devotion: God promised that he will send the Messiah and he did - Jesus Christ the Messiah came in the form of man, born as prophesized of a virgin in the lineage of David. We receive salvation because Jesus came and died on the Cross. This is a reason to praise God. The prophecy about Jesus Christ was fulfilled after many years nevertheless it was fulfilled. There are so many other prophecies in the Bible that were fulfilled and some are still being fulfilled. It is same with you and me there are several visions we've been told by prophets or from the Bible, some of which had come to pass and many yet to be fulfilled. Should we them despair or become weary in our believe because our personal prophecies tarry? No, rather we should remain steadfast in our trust in God. We should continue to live ri...

Serve (worship) the LORD with gladness: Come before his presence with singing. Psalm 100:2 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.100.2.KJV Devotion: It is still the season of advent, a time for reflection and joyful expectations of the arrival of our Lord Jesus Christ. It is a time to come before God in joy and worship God with gladness because He is God, our creator, saviour, deliverer, protector, Redeemer, helper, hope, giver, promiser and promise keeper.   God is worthy of our praises and expects us to praise Him always. Therefore I urge you to take a worship song and sing loud to God wherever you're today. No matter the situation you find yourself and it will be a pleasant situation, just sing praises with gladness and begin to experience your testimony in Jesus name.   Remember to share your means with the needy in your neighbourhood, invite them to a meal, but them gifts and help the lonely elderly persons nearby. Please don't forget to give the good news of our Lo...

Glory ye in his holy name: Let the heart of them rejoice that seek the LORD. 1 Chronicles 16:10 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/1ch.16.10.KJV Devotion: The Ark of God was returned and everyone was happy, the King, David most especially. He wrote the song of praise and asked it to be played while he leaped for joy, dancing and shouting the shout of joy. (Read 1 Chronicles 16).   This year 2023 is about to end, remaining few days, I urge you to look back and you'll discover that you have a lot to praise God for. When you remember the ups and downs, the blessings, health that you enjoy, how God saved you or a member of your family you'll understand that you have a reason to rejoice and praise the Lord.  That God saved you and called you His own, not minding that your are not perfect is enough reason to praise and worship God in choruses, hymns and dancing. Dear reader, I have a reason to praise God, do you have reason? Search your heart. God will give you testimony in the remaining...

O clap your hands, all ye people; Shout unto God with the voice of triumph. Psalm 47:1 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.47.1.KJV Devotion: God inhabits our praises, He does not eat nor drink and has no needs that He cannot provide for Himself. God does not need our monies, properties or anything other than praises. All God demands from us is our praises and some people are so stingy they cannot give God praises. In several verses in the Bible we are urged to praise God. In psalm 100 vs 1, the psalmist says "Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands."    Few years back I was totally down, out of job, yes out of job the first thing i did was to dance and sing praises to the Lord of my salvation, my provider, Redeemer, helper, hope, defender, and lifter up of my head. Hallelujah. Till now I don't know why I did that but I know it relieved my tension and I had joy in my heart.   No matter the situation when happy praise God, unhappy? Praise God, down and out, prai...

The LORD is my strength and my shield; my heart trusted in him, and I am helped: Therefore my heart greatly rejoiceth; and with my song will I praise him. Psalm 28:7 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.28.7.KJV Devotion: The Lord God is a trustworthy God, when trouble knocks we should run to him and he will defend us and we should have confidence that no trouble can overcome us. This is what the psalmist is telling us in the verse above. In addition the psalmist rejoiced and sang songs of praise thus increasing his Faith in God. We should also praise God in our songs.  Dear reader, when you are going through the waters or fire(Isaiah 43 vs 2) do not panic put your trust in God your strength and shield. You may not see him but God is always there working for you in the background unless you have walked away from him. (You walk away when you seek power from other human being like you or you trust in the power of your arms. A trust in man always leads to failure). To reinforce your trus...

Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost. Romans 15:13 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/rom.15.13.KJV Devotion: Let's examine the relationship between hope and faith. From online sources this is what I got.       When people have hope they have faith, because they hold a belief that says “I believe that the future will be better.”  And while they have no grounds to “prove” the hopeful assumption, they have faith in it. While faith without hope is possible, hope without faith is not. Thus faith is not sufficient for hope.  From above we can deduce that both are interwoven but that God, is the father of both Hope and faith. This our God of hope will fill us with all joy and peace when we have Faith which in turn will strengthen and increase our Hope by His power (holy spirit). In other words if you believe, have faith, you you'll have tremendous joy and hope in your future o...

If the world hate you, ye know that it hated me before it hated you. John 15:18 KJV Devotion: It seems strange that being a devoted follower of Jesus somehow attracts haters. People are easily irritated by you; they exclude you or count you out for no apparent reason. If this situation resonates with you, just know that nothing is wrong with you unless the Holy Spirit convicts you about a character or attitude that needs realignment. Beloved, what you are experiencing is what Jesus Christ had experienced here on earth. He, too, was hated for no reason (John 15:25), and as the opening scripture says, it is already expected that if the world hated Christ, it would definitely hate His followers too. Jesus said that the world doesn’t know His Spirit (John 14:17), and that is why we are rejected, persecuted, and hated.  So, whenever someone manifests the spirit of the world against you, rejoice and give thanks to God, for this only confirms that the Holy Spirit is at work in your life! ...

He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him. John 14:21 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/jhn.14.21.KJV Devotion: When one of my sons was growing up he imitated me - the way I walk, speak, pray, love and obeys me whatever i ask him to do he does. He's now grown up and still loves me so much that he makes sure to call me daily. Now that is love without condition because I did not do anything special for him before he loved me.  This is what Jesus expects of you and me, to love Him unconditionally, to obey and emulate Him. It is not enough to say I'm a born again Christian, I love Jesus while our lives say otherwise. Even as Jesus loves us freely He expects obedience from those of us who love him. That made the difference between the 11 Apostles, the women (Mary, Magdalene etc) and Judas Iscariot and the other followers whose sole aim was for either hea...

O come, let us worship and bow down: Let us kneel before the LORD our maker. Psalm 95:6 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.95.6.KJV Devotion: David invited you and me to worship God in reverence. Let's stop and ask ourselves, why worship God? The reason is simple - God is our Creator and great provider. He did not just create us He created everything that we will ever need to survive. I see more than enough reason to worship God in that.  We should reverently worship God in all situations, no matter what, in joy or grieve, in success or otherwise, when we receive good news of bad news, all the time we should worship God. We also need to worship God with our neighbors, colleagues, teach them the word of God and to accept Christ as Lord and Saviour over their lives and to worship God.  We should worship God in our body, how we dress and and use our body, in our work and relationship. When we notice the wonders of God in creation - beautiful mountain scenery, rivers flowing gently...

"But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up. Peter 3:10" Devotion : The Apostle Peter by the revelation of God spoke about the passing away of the present heaven and Earth. Our Lord Jesus Christ also touched on this subject when He said heaven and Earth shall pass away but His words shall not pass away (Matthew 24:35).  The reason for their passing away is the sin of the devil in heaven and the sin of mankind on Earth. These sins corrupted heaven and Earth, therefore God has made provision for a new heaven and a new Earth (Revelation 21:1).  The question we should ask ourselves is am I a contributor to the sin of the world? What shall I do to free myself free sin? God has given us a saving grace in that if we believe Jesus Christ is son of God who died for our sin and make a decision to fol...

Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Matthew 6:25 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/mat.6.25.KJV Devotion: The verse above from one of the teachings of Christ on the mountain is apt for today's lifestyle where every thought is about accumulation of wealth and gadgets. The physical wealth- properties, vehicles, electronics that we possess are highly valued by some people to the extent that they can do practically anything including killing others to acquire these ephemeral things.  Most people believe the properties belong to them, that they own them whereas they don't. All that we possess are lent out to us by God and when the time comes, God will repossess them and we will return to God or otherwise empty just as we came. So I wonder why the primitive accumulation, why acquire wealth by fire by force when we will lea...

The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God. Isaiah 40:3 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/isa.40.3.KJV Devotion: This prophecy about preparation came years before John the Baptist was born and to God's glory John fulfilled the prophecy. He was in the wilderness and preached about the coming Messiah Jesus Christ.   I call upon you today to give your life and accept Christ as your Lord and Saviour and to join a Bible teaching Church. Dear reader while waiting for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ let's get ourselves ready by daily meditation in the word of God and daily commune with Him through Christ. With that we'll not sin but be able to live a life of obedience as Holy Spirit helps us. It is in doing this that we'll be confident, prepared and suitable to fulfill our roles as front-runner to the coming of Jesus Christ.  We have been called and praise God we are a born again Christian. ...

Let the Word of Christ dwell in you richly…. – Colossians 3:16 Things in this old world aren't getting any better, and in recent times, the Holy Spirit has been speaking an urgent message to my heart. He's been saying, Press in. Draw into a more intimate relationship with your heavenly Father. If you don't, you won't make it. If you do, you will see more glorious outpourings of God than you can imagine. That message is for more than just me. It's also for you and every other believer on the earth today. We are in the last days of this age. Jesus is coming soon. It's an exciting time, but it's also a dangerous time. Those who don't do what the Spirit says, who don't press into the Lord, will go from disaster to disaster. But those who do will defeat the disasters and turn them into glory, in Jesus' Name! Your first step in drawing closer to God is to realize that you know God first in His Word. Time spent meditating in the New Testament is time sp...

Let us hold fast the profession of our faith without wavering; (for he is faithful that promised;) Hebrews 10:23 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/heb.10.23.KJV Devotion: Hallelujah, you have confessed that Jesus is Christ the son of God and you have given your life to Him. Now circumstances do come when your faith is tried to the point of death and you have option to deny your faith in Christ and be saved or be faithful and die. Few years ago there was a video clip of christians being slaughtered like ram. They refused to deny their faith. There was argument that they should have denied and be alive but that is for another day.    Let's focus on the three Hebrew children Meshach, Shadrach and Abednego who stayed faithful to the end and God delivered them. God made true His promise to never leave us nor forsake us in the situation.  There are many other instances God promised us and fulfilled the promise. He said he will send the Messiah Christ and he did, Christ promised us ...

1 Peter 3:15  But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Devotion: Apostle Peter teaches us to honour Christ as Lord in our hearts, this means we should believe and trust Christ in our hearts. We must live our lives as Jesus taught and commanded; our lives must radiate the love of God. We are also to study the word of God and understand it very well so that we will be able to respond to anyone who asked why we are Christian or why we are different from other church goers. People will ask why we dress, speak and live our lives modestly. We must be able to respectively explain from the biblical point of view. Our lives must radiate love to everyone who comes in contact with us at any time. We must not be like some who are saints in the church and live differently on the streets. Our lives must be able to win souls for Christ anytime. Dear reader, think your li...

1 Peter 3:15  But sanctify the Lord God in your hearts: and be ready always to give an answer to every man that asketh you a reason of the hope that is in you with meekness and fear: Devotion: Apostle Peter teaches us to honour Christ as Lord in our hearts, this means we should believe and trust Christ in our hearts. We must live our lives as Jesus taught and commanded; our lives must radiate the love of God. We are also to study the word of God and understand it very well so that we will be able to respond to anyone who asked why we are Christian or why we are different from other church goers. People will ask why we dress, speak and live our lives modestly. We must be able to respectively explain from the biblical point of view. Our lives must radiate love to everyone who comes in contact with us at any time. We must not be like some who are saints in the church and live differently on the streets. Our lives must be able to win souls for Christ anytime. Dear reader, think your li...

Be strong and of a good courage, fear not, nor be afraid of them: for the LORD thy God, he it is that doth go with thee; he will not fail thee, nor forsake thee. Deuteronomy 31:6 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/deu.31.6.KJV Devotion: Good day out there, I'm sure you are getting ready for Christmas, it is advent, a time for reflection, a time to increase your faith in God and also a time to take a bold step in the new year. God told the Israelites to step into the Red sea boldly to cross a distance of about 12 kilometers. One can only imagine what went on in their hearts at that point in time. But they believed God and immediately their feet touched the waters it disappeared under their feet, the land became dry. (Exodus 14: 13-22)  When you watch sky divers on YouTube you feel for them when they have to take a dive into the sky but they trust in their parachute. Maybe you are among the people planning to start a new business or relocate to another city or country and your heart beat ...

but they that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint. Isaiah 40:31 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/isa.40.31.KJV Devotion: Our discussion on advent season continues today. It is a time of hopeful anticipation, spiritual reflection and renewed strength. Every one of us will go through the valley at one time or the other, the most important issue in such situation is not to remain there and not trying on your own strength. One should also not settle for temporary Measures or rely on human effort or promises as it will come to naught.  The Bible says in Isaiah 40:31 above that those who wait, hope, expect or look for for God shall (a decided matter) not will(probable) have their strength renewed. This should be a source of joy for you and me because we have a God who never fails, He never disappoints so whenever life boxed us into a corner we must not lose hope. We must...

I wait for the LORD, my soul doth wait, And in his word do I hope. Psalm 130:5 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.130.5.KJV Devotion: Welcome to the advent season. Advent means "coming or arrival" and today is the first advent Sunday, we are waiting for the arrival of our Lord Jesus Christ to celebrate his birth and if He comes as He promised we expectantly wait for him.  Coming to the physical situation of life sometimes you have reason to say enough is enough I give up, I'm tired, I cannot go further etc. Your reason might be genuine because of frustration the financial situation throws up every now and then but as children of God we must be different and be the difference in the society. The people look up to us for encouragement and we must not disappoint them.  Just as the Jews expectantly waited for the coming of the Messiah we must wait for the coming of Jesus Christ to redeem us. No matter what life throws at us we must be steadfast in our trust in God that He who ...

For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast. Ephesians 2:8‭-‬9 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/eph.2.8-9.KJV Devotion: I used to have a friend in the late 80s who was very upright, never cheated, did his work and fully earned his pay, did not permit slothfulness etc. In fact on the surface you would think he was a born again Christian but he was not. He was totally areligious. He would taunt us who professed our Christianity saying he would make heaven before us. His believe was that he would earn heaven by work and not by grace through faith. He did not have faith so he could not access Grace.  My dear reader I urge you this morning to take the free gift of faith that God deposited in you so that you will receive the greater part which is grace to become a child of God. Just like my friend above you cannot earn grace your can only receive grace through faith. Both are freely given. Glory to God y...

For if ye forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you: Matthew 6:14 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/mat.6.14.KJV Devotion: We live in communities where we relate with other people either at home, work place or on the streets. As humans we mess up daily in these relationships and in relationship with God. The Bible says all have sinned and fall short (Rom 3 :23)..... but if we ask for forgiveness God is ready to forgive us.(1John 1:9)  Truly some people are arrogant and will not ask God for forgiveness so they continue living their sinful life. There are people like that who find it difficult to say I'm sorry please forgive me when they wrong you. To you and me who had received forgiveness from Christ, those of us who were redeemed by Christ it is not an option it is a command to forgive others.  While still on earth we are prone to sin and when we ask God for forgiveness He forgives so we too must make it a point of duty to forgive others no matter t...

Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, And that seek him with the whole heart. Psalm 119:2 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.119.2.KJV Devotion: The foundation of joy, true joy on earth is God because one cannot actually enjoy any form of happiness in life without Christ.(Psalm 119 : 2) God is the creator of the universe He certainly knows what is best for each one of us and will readily give us when we ask Him for it.    Following God's guidance and direction for our lives will lead to fulfilled life, which is why the writer of psalms in 119:2-3 says "Blessed are they that keep his testimonies, and that seek him with the whole heart. They also do no iniquity: they walk in his ways." The word keep his testimonies here means explore, find knowledge, read the word of God. If you read the word of God you will understand the precepts of God and not go against it. Therefore you will live a fulfilled life.   To read the word of God and benefit from it you must have a relat...

"The LORD is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the LORD is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalms 27:1" Devotion : The Psalmist through a personal relationship with the LORD saw Him as his Light, Salvation, and Strength. The LORD as Light to direct him; the LORD as Salvation to rescue him; the LORD as Strength to give him divine health and fight for him.  In the New Testament Jesus Christ is our Light (John 1:4), Salvation when we confess(1John1:9) that Jesus is Christ who died on the cross so that we might be saved, and Strength. Jesus Christ as Light to make us the light of the world; Jesus Christ as Salvation to die on the cross to redeem us from the bondage of sin; Jesus Christ as Strength to send the Holy Spirit to edify us for ministry. We can experience Jesus Christ as Light, Salvation, and Strength only if we want to go the extra mile to have a very intimate relationship with Him. Are you prepared to go the extra mile?  Dear beloved, do...

"As far as the east is from the west, so far hath he removed our transgressions from us. Psalms 103:12" Devotion : In the Old Testament, God covered their sins with the blood of goats, sheep, and bulls (Psalms 32:1). This means that God could remember their sins by just taking the cover off. However, in the New Testament Jesus Christ died, atoning the sin of mankind with His blood; in other words, the blood of Jesus is superior to the blood of animals because it cleanses all sins and even our conscience is cleansed.  For this reason, when God forgives our sins when we ask Him, He forgives them and remembers them no more. This is what Christians are encouraged to learn from God. Due to human nature, forgetting the sins of those who have wronged us takes time, but conscious effort should be made to forget them. This where the Holy Spirit comes in - when we allow Him to help us to forgive and forget, which will be to our own advantage.  Dear beloved, how do you feel when people ...

As every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God. 1 Peter 4:10 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/1pe.4.10.KJV Devotion: The seven to eight billion people on earth are all unique and each has unique gift bestowed upon him or her. In the passage above Apostle Peter admonishes us to use these unique gifts to help each other especially in the body of Christ.   Some of us have gift of kindness, love, giving, helping, teaching, counseling etc. We should use such gifts to assist others, to rouse them up, to lift them and bless them. Now some may not clearly know the gift they are endowed with, if you are in such situation ask God to show you. You can also know because you're naturally good at the gift your are endowed with.  Some other gifts come with life experience which is almost always unique to a person. Such life experiences can be used to teach, counsel or help others.   We receive these gif...

"What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us? Romans 8:31" Devotion : The Apostle Paul asked the above questions after touching on many subjects. Some of the subjects he touched on were the intercession of the Holy Spirit for us, predestination, justification, and glorification. All the things he spoke about are in our favour as believers in Christ Jesus.  He taught these subjects to encourage the believers in his era not to give up their faith even though they might be going through a lot of challenges. He said the destiny of Christians has been planned by God, we have been declared not guilty by God, and we will be glorified in the end.   Sometimes we are deceived to think that God does not care or that God hates us, because of the challenges or sufferings that come our way when we became born again. These trials are just passing for us to be glorified in the end. He who stands to the end will be saved, there is no looking back in the...

The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. Numbers 6:24‭-‬26 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/num.6.24-26.KJV Devotion: Today's priestly blessing for you and me is like an insurance cover. It covers all areas of our lives but it will not just come to you unless you have a relationship with God through the highest priest Jesus Christ. As we all know insurance covers only those who subscribed otherwise you'll be on your own. To receive the blessings of the prayer give your life to Christ then you will begin to enjoy the protection of God which is in the first part of the prayer. The second part says God's face will shine upon you, that is favour, meaning God will favour you everywhere and in all your undertaking again provided you relate with God regularly in His word and prayers.  The third part says will search you out to favour you especially when you a...

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. Colossians 3:16 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/col.3.16.KJV Devotion: Paul counseled the Colossians to who he introduced Jesus Christ, to study the word of Jesus, why? There were many unbelievers around just like today who would like to shame a Christian who does not know the word of Christ. We are to read the Bible regularly, understand it and be able to quote several verses from it; especially when we want to pray or are faced with unbelievers who would want to test us. Note the Jesus' example when devil tested him, he replied with the word of God (Luke 4: 1-13). This is achievable when we fellowship with other children of God and study the word together.  Singing spiritual songs, hymns and psalms lifts our souls and gives joy to our God. It makes God happy with us and when we make our petitions known...

O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: For his mercy endureth for ever. Psalm 107:1 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.107.1.KJV Devotion: Faithful children off God always give thanks to God in all situations no matter what was happening in their lives.  Paul and Silas were kept in stocks in  the prison yet they sang songs of praise (Act 16:25-26). The foundation of the prison shakes and their stocks were loosened.  When you're in the valley, going through severe trials give thanks to God because other did not have opportunity to go through the trial before death took them. Thank God for His steadfast love endures forever.  In your success also give thanks to God because His steadfast love endures forever. In all situations always thank God, in prayers, songs of praise and even in your heart. Thanking God always rouse God to do more, to act on your behalf, to protect and to bless you.  Remember it is because of His steadfast love that you are alive again to...

Rejoice evermore. Pray without ceasing. In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16‭-‬18 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/1th.5.16-18.KJV Devotion: Our Bible passage this morning is simple. It tells us what to do as children of God in all circumstances : to rejoice, to pray and to give thanks to God because that's what God demands of us.  We are to emulate Job who despite his loss was happy, did not blame God and blessed God. When the going is in the valley we must not blame God, we must not curse the day of our birth as some will do in hardship, we must not find excuse or stop attending church services. Instead we must be joyful because the hardship of today is but for a short time. As sure as the sun will shine another good and glorious day will come especially to those who believe in Christ.  Therefore let's rejoice in Christ, He is our source of happiness. We must also not relax in prayers because devil our adve...

Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: And I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever. Psalm 23:6 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.23.6.KJV Devotion: When we walk with the Lord we are sure(certain) that God shall do what he promises. In the verse of today God promises that goodness and mercy(love) shall(of a truth, compulsorily) follow (be with you and me) every day of our lives.  Now it does not mean we will not Walk through dark alleys, suffer afflictions just like every human beings but such afflictions will not overcome us. We need not be afraid because God's goodness and mercy will be there for us always. It is enough reason to live a victorious life in Christ. This confidence will take us to the next level where we aspire to live in God's Manson all the days of our lives in eternity. We start this here on earth by having Christ and His Holy Spirit duel in our heart to guide and guard us to eternity. This we can achieve by meditating in God...

If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Galatians 5:25 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/gal.5.25.KJV Devotion: Good day to you, the Bible verse of today simple says demonstrate your spirituality by walking in spirit. The reason is not far fetched, there are many "born again Christian" out there whose lives do not portray their Christianity.  The confessed Christ but their mind is elsewhere because they are either too shallow or they are fake. They are shallow because they do not read the words of God and so live in disobedience.  Some are fake because they do not want to forgo the pecuniary gains of the world. Their stomach rules them, they live in the lust of the flesh and eyes which they must satisfy by doing things which do not glorify God. In the heart of such people Holy Spirit has no place. In 2 Timothy 4:10a Paul wrote "For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica;" This shows that Demas loved t...

This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Joshua 1:8 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/jos.1.8.KJV Devotion: There are God given guidelines for every aspect of life including success. All one needs to do is follow the guidelines. To succeed in life God through Joshua gave the Israelites the guidelines in the verse of today.  In the verse we understand that we must constantly read the words of God and meditate on it, because in doing so we will understand the rules of life, we will live a life of obedience and hence will not waste our resources on things that will not bring glory to God. In the Bible is written how to give and be blessed, payment of tithe and offering. In the Bible we also learn that we must work because God promises to bless the labours of our hands. In o...

Therefore I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me. Micah 7:7 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/mic.7.7.KJV Devotion: Waiting for a person can be futile, it can end up in vein. But waiting on the Lord is rewarding.  The time of prophet Micah was a time when Israel was desolate and each person did what he or she liked. Idol worship was rampant, there was misery, there were killings and wars and people lost faith in God. Prophet Micah stood his ground and waited on the God of his salvation because he believed that the Messiah will come.   The Messiah Jesus Christ came and delivered you and me from our sinful life and gave us hope of glory on earth and in eternity. He gave us Holy Spirit to guide us unto life in Christ so it is left for you and me to grab this opportunity to live and not die.  The world today is not different from the time Micah lived, the powerful oppress the weak, there's no love, idolatry is everywhere, self...

But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, Neither have entered into the heart of man, The things which God hath prepared for them that love him. 1 Corinthians 2:9 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/1co.2.9.KJV Devotion: Good day to you my readers. One might need Holy Spirit to understand this topic needs, because it can have two interpretations. If taken in isolation one will believe Paul was talking about heaven and it's will be correct since nobody has been there and come back to tell his or experience. None living had seen, heard our perceive what's in heaven only the Holy Spirit can tell. The second option is to read 1 Corinthians 2:7-8  "But we speak the wisdom of God in a mystery, even the hidden wisdom, which God ordained before the world unto our glory: Which none of the princes of this world knew: for had they known it, they would not have crucified the Lord of glory." It is evident that Paul refers to earthly things but that which is unfathomable to...

"But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. Isaiah 53:5" Devotion : The good news was derived from the finished work of Christ on the cross of Calvary. Jesus, who knew no sin, was wounded for our transgressions and bruised for our wickedness, and the punishment we deserved was laid on Him; He gave us healing by His stripes.  This is the good news Christ Jesus brought to mankind. He did all the work for us to receive the reward; all we need to do is to just believe and be a partaker of the blessings. Those who do not believe the good news will have themselves to blame in hell since they want to pay for their own sins in hell.    If man could pay for his own sins, Jesus would not have come. Dear reader, the choice is now yours; either you believe in the gospel and partake of the blessings or reject it and suffer the consequences. Share your comments here! https...

He healeth the broken in heart, And bindeth up their wounds. Psalm 147:3 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.147.3.KJV Devotion: Broken heart is a thing that no one will like to go through, it is better imagined than go through the agony of it. In any case at one time or the other it will happen to someone and the way one handles it, is what makes the difference. Many will try to handle it by themselves while some will succumb and perish, yet some others will give it to Jesus and come out victorious. I don't know what you maybe going through right now, it could be deep brokenness that you think you may not be able to overcome; do you want to fling up your hands and surrender? Please don't, you have a friend like no other who is ever ready to assist you. He says come to me all ye.... . (Matt 11 : 28)   This friend and Master Jesus healed the man who was by the lake for 38 years, (John 5: 5-8) healed the one born blind (John 9: 1-6), the leper etc (Matt 11:5). He is anxiously waiti...

To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; 1 Corinthians 12:10 KJV Devotion: Every believer can have the gift of prophecy and may prophesy, but not all believers are prophets just because they prophesy. For instance, when Saul was with the prophets, there was a strong anointing of God so that he, too, prophesied with them. Yet, he was not anointed by God as a prophet but as a king (1 Samuel 10:11).    Beloved, the gift of prophecy is that one speaks concerning the future as they are led to by the Holy Spirit! When the father of John the Baptist was filled with the Holy Spirit, he prophesied the kind of life and future his son would have (Luke 1:67-79). God can show you events in your future and someone else’s future! He may also cause you to prophesy and declare life into situations and people even if that seems hopeless and helpless. The prophet Ezekiel prophesied to the dry bones, and life came forth (Ezekiel 37:1-10)!   Beloved, allow the Holy Spirit to f...

Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: For thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day. Psalm 25:5 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/psa.25.5.KJV Devotion: This psalm 25, is a prayer for guidance and protection which means the writer had faith in God. To have faith in someone you have to know the person very well and be close to the person to know his or her capabilities.  David walked with the Lord and knew God's capacity to guide and teach him. David therefore used this knowledge about God to pray the right prayer, not for selfish reason but for more knowledge. In verse four he wrote "Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths." This is evidence that David wants to know more of God which is the right path to take before asking for guidance. David also pleaded for mercy in verses 6 and 7 because he knew himself as sinner who needed mercy, guidance and knowledge to succeed in life.   Dearly beloved, today is the first working day of this week in western wor...

Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. 2 Corinthians 3:17 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/2co.3.17.KJV Devotion: The Spirit of God is God and he who gives his life to Christ has the spirit of God ín him. This Spirit liberates or sets free from encumbrances we involve ourselves in when we do not have Christ.   In Africa people believe in fetich objects, spiritism, wizards or witches and get involved. The unbeliever fear these occultists because they present themselves as persons with power of life and death.   Last night I watched a skit in which a witch threatened to kill a woman, an ex witch who had given her life to Christ and renounced witchcraftry. At the name of Jesus in the skit the witch collapsed and died. Such is it when you have God living in you, the spirit of God liberates, releases you from bondage and you're able to face your fear.    Dearly beloved, is the spirit of God living in you? Yeah, congratul...

My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth. 1 John 3:18 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/1jn.3.18.KJV Devotion: The Bible verse of today tells us that "action speaks louder than Words" and that's the truth Jesus wants you and me to understand. Most people confess their Christianity in words but people do not see it in their actions.   An example is this, a young born again Christian was sitting comfortably in the bus and an elderly weak lady came in, the young Christian refused to give up his seat for the elderly lady. We can clearly see here that the Christian told us of his believe in Christ but failed to translate the believe into action.    As followers of Christ we are called to follow both in words (preach the good news of Christ) and action ( help everyone young and old who needs our assistance). That is what Jesus did while on earth, He told us of kingdom of God and helped the weak, sick and poor.   Dearly ...

"He that is not with me is against me: and he that gathereth not with me scattereth. Luke 11:23" Devotion : Jesus Christ of Nazareth made that profound statement in Luke 11:23. It is clear that no one can be on the fence in this world; you are either for Jesus or against Him. Either you are winning souls for Him or you are turning souls away from Him; there is no middle ground.    Those who are in the world or those who are not born again are against Jesus Christ; no one can dispute it. However, those who are born again must ask themselves whether they are for or against Jesus. The reason is not far fetched, you're a born again Christian but you do not work to safe others from eternal damnation. What born again is that? You must carry out the great commission. When your speech or life style put question mark on your Christianity, check it you might be working against Christ. Stop working against Christ, do not be antichrist within.  This is the truth from our Lord and Sav...

Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Hebrews 4:16 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/heb.4.16.KJV Devotion: Hello there, please try to answer this question in your mind: As a child, were you able to approach your dad when in need? Yeah, that is good of both of you, a good child and a good parent. A disobedient child will be afraid to approach the parents for fear of punishment. A wicked dad is a fear to the children.  But we have a high priest, Jesus Christ who came to rescue us from guilt, He lived Holy life yet he died miserable death on the cross because of you and me. He took away our sin, glory to God, Jesus overcame death and become the assurance of our salvation when we believe in Him.  As a result our sin is taken away from us, we are now able to boldly come to his throne and table our petitions. Jesus' arms are wide open to welcome us to receive mercy and grace. I assure you no other god do...

 Beloved, let us love one another: for love is of God; and every one that loveth is born of God, and knoweth God. https://bible.com/bible/1/1jn.4.7.KJV Devotion: The four letters word LOVE, is a miracle word that has the power to change the world. Wherever Love is there is Peace. Its absence leads to strife, mistrust, unhappiness and all forms of stress.  It is the absence of love that causes war between Nations, one people hates the other and covets the resources of the weaker country. The stronger country oppresses the weaker because there is no love.  Where love is absent God is not there because God is Love (1John 4:8). Therefore one can safely say Nations without love are ungodly and always at war with someone. Its people kill themselves daily. The same can be extrapolated to family level.  A loving family is peaceful, lives together, no divorce, enjoys goodness of God, always assisting the weak amongst them. There's no strife, no envy, none covets the others' p...

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. John 16:33 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/jhn.16.33.KJV Devotion: Jesus told his followers bluntly what will happen imminently to himself.  He reassured them that though similar situation will happen to them but they should take heart because He will be with them. Jesus was blunt, he did not hide the fact from them.   Neither did Jesus hide it from you and me today in this world there will be time when one will be in the valley of life. When it happens we must keep our Faith in Jesus that He is there with us and that He will assist us through and bring us out better. Let's not forget that God tells us in the Bible that when we go through fire it will not burn us nor will the flame kindle us because He God will not leave us nor forsake us. (Isaiah 43 vs 2 and chapter 41 vs 10) Dear reader, just have this in mind 4 that Jesu...

Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man. Colossians 4:6 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/col.4.6.KJV Devotion: Top of the day to you out there. Our verse of the day admonishes us to talk like Christ would to anyone we had to talk to. The first part says our speech should always be with grace. Grace is a free undeserved gift, this means we should interact with someone undeserved of our conversation eg someone who despitefully use us, known criminals, non-believers etc.  The second part says our speech should be well seasoned with salt, this means we should preserve the good news of Christ as it is and tell it in a good and likeable manner not condemning sinners but driving home the truth of the word. It should be presented in a way to make sinners see reason to give their lives to Christ who loves them and wants to save them from eternal damnation.   The third part says we should answer everyman yes everyone is wor...

Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Matthew 5:14 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/mat.5.14.KJV Devotion: When you give your life to Christ and live a righteous life you're called Christian which means small Christ. Jesus Christ himself is a super star if I can use the word. There's no where He goes that multitudes in thousands will not follow him. Jesus cannot hide Himself from the people. He is a bright star, a light unto the world.   You a small Christ also cannot hide, it is impossible to deny your Christianity unless you were deceiving yourself before. If truly your are a Christian it will manifest in your character, speech, dressing and humility. As ordinary layman people who do not know me had met me and called me pastor, I just say amen that I'm not yet a pastor but God will make me His servant in that wise one day since it is your prayer for me. You cannot hide just as you cannot light a lamp and cover it, so as a genuine Christi...

For I know that my redeemer liveth, And that he shall stand at the latter day upon the earth: Job 19:25 KJV https://bible.com/bible/1/job.19.25.KJV Devotion: The story of Job is about hope and trust in God the end result was that Job was rewarded for his steadfast hope in God. Job suffered a great loss of property and lives off his children and boils all over his body. He was criticized by his friends and wife yet he did not forsake God, his hope remained to the last. Job understood that even if his loss was not replaced God will still be God at the end of life.  I really don't know what you maybe going through right now but what is constant is God. He was before you, He is now and knows what you're going through and will be even at the end of it all. He is the Redeemer and Hope of those who trust Him.    We anchor our Hope on Him because we know that He, God will restore us at the end of time either here on earth or in eternity. There's no room for hopelessness when we k...