ojaysjoel blog

John 14:26  But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. Devotion: As we step into the year 2025, let us begin by seeking the presence and power of the Holy Spirit in our lives. The Bible reminds us that our Heavenly Father is willing to give us the Holy Spirit when we ask Him. In Luke 11:13, Jesus says, "If you then, though you are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!" The Holy Spirit is our Advocate, sent by the Father in Jesus' name, to teach us all things and remind us of everything Jesus has told us (John 14:26). When the Holy Spirit comes upon us, we receive power to be witnesses for Jesus, starting from our own communities and spreading to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). To experience the presence and power of the Holy Spirit...

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. Philippians 3:13-14  Devotion: As the year draws to a close and a new one begins, it's a pivotal time for reflection, evaluation, and planning. This period offers an opportunity to assess our achievements, learn from our experiences, and set new goals. To navigate this process, let's adopt a thoughtful approach to time accountability and preparation for the new year, enriched with spiritual exhortation.   Reflecting on the past year is essential. Take time to list and celebrate your accomplishments and milestones. Reflect on the challenges you faced and the lessons they imparted. As Philippians 3:13-14 reminds us, "Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for ...

John 15:4-5 NIV [4] Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. [5] "I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing." Devotion: I once observed two mango trees, one with branches heavily laden with fruit, yet still firmly attached to the tree. In contrast, another tree had branches that had torn apart from the trunk, withering away and rendering the fruit inedible. This poignant image illustrates the spiritual lives of Christians. Some, especially leaders, may start strong, performing miracles and winning souls for Christ. However, as they become preoccupied with organizing events and programs, they neglect their personal connection with God through prayer. Consequently, their spiritual life dwindles, and the miracles cease. Then there are the nominal Christians, who attend church but ...

Philippians 4:6  Be careful for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. Devotion: The verse of today is a powerful verse that offers guidance on how to navigate life's challenges with faith and peace. Here's a spiritual discussion of this verse: "Be Careful for Nothing" The phrase "be careful for nothing" doesn't mean we should be careless or indifferent to life's problems. Rather, it's an instruction to avoid anxious worrying or being overly concerned about things. As believers, we're called to trust God with our concerns, rather than letting them consume us. "But in Every Thing by Prayer and Supplication" Instead of worrying, we're encouraged to bring our concerns to God in prayer. The phrase "in every thing" emphasizes that no matter how big or small the issue, we should take it to God in prayer. "Supplication" implies a humble and ...

 When they saw the star, they were overjoyed. On coming to the house, they saw the child with his mother Mary, and they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Matthew 2:10-11 NIV Devotion: While Israel awaited the Savior, three wise men from the East studied ancient texts and followed a star to find Jesus. Despite the long and demanding journey, they sought Him out, driven by a desire to worship the one the signs pointed to.   Upon finding Jesus, they bowed down and worshiped Him, offering gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. These gifts held deep symbolic meaning, recognizing Jesus' kingship, divinity, and future suffering. The fourth gift is their worship, it shows reverence to Jesus the Messiah. He's the only person worthy of our praises and worship. All other gods are works of men and worthless; while Jesus, the word (John 1:1) is true God.    The wise men's story reminds us ...

John 1:14  And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth. Devotion: Today, we'll conclude our exploration of the birth of Jesus Christ by delving into its profound spiritual significance and the transformative impact it can have on our lives. As we reflect on Jesus' humility, as seen in His willingness to leave His divine throne and take on human form, we're reminded that He empathizes with our struggles and experiences. By studying His life, we can gain valuable insights into overcoming sin and death, just as He did. Let's examine the importance of Jesus' birth, following this outline:  1. God’s Love and Humility:    - Embrace Humility: Jesus’ humble birth in a manger teaches us to value humility and simplicity.    - God with Us: The incarnation of God in human form shows His immense love and willingness to be close to humanity, offering a model of ...

Luke 1:30-31  And the angel said unto her, Fear not, Mary: for thou hast found favour with God. And, behold, thou shalt conceive in thy womb, and bring forth a son, and shalt call his name JESUS. Devotion: Christmas is in two days, I feel it is important to remind ourselves the story of the birth of our Lord and Saviour - Jesus Christ. Today I'll consider the story according to the gospel according to St Luke.  The story of the birth of Jesus Christ, often celebrated as Christmas, is one of the most cherished and significant narratives in Christianity. Here’s a brief overview, followed by its spiritual implications: The Nativity Story:  Annunciation: The angel Gabriel visits Mary, a young virgin in Nazareth, and tells her she will conceive a child by the Holy Spirit, to be named Jesus. Joseph’s Dream: Joseph, Mary’s betrothed, plans to quietly end their engagement, but an angel visits him in a dream, assuring him of God’s plan. Journey to Bethlehem: Due to a census ...