ojaysjoel blog

"Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Proverbs 6:6" Devotion : Truly the wisdom of God is unsearchable; He has created many things for our learning. The opening scripture throws light on one of those things which God has created to teach mankind knowledge. To the sluggard or lazy person God created the ant to teach them knowledge so that by putting to practice that knowledge they can acquire wisdom for living.   The ant does not have a leader (its queen is always deep down underground) but gathers food in the harvest so that she can provide herself food in the summer. If an insect can live with this wisdom then a human being should do better.   However, this is not always the case; that is why God tells the lazy to go to the ant and discern the principle behind hardwork and wealth creation. The ant is industrious and saves what she has gathered against a rainy day. The Christian should also learn from the ant; he/she should be diligent with work, ...

Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. Mathew 28:16-17 Devotion: Struggling with faith in God is a common experience, and it’s important to remember that you’re not alone in this journey. We see in the passage above that even among the disciples who lived with Jesus, touched him, ate with him some still doubted Him.    In the Bible, it’s not just Thomas who doubted, everyone did! Adam, Eve(Genesis 3:1- end), Abraham(Gen 15:7-21), Sarah(Gen.18:12), Moses(Exodus 3:11), David(1Samuel 27:1), Elijah(1King 19: 1-18), John the Baptist(Matthew 11:3; Luke 7: 19), and the list goes on. They all were doubters. Even Jesus’ family thought He was crazy(John 7:5). All the disciples ran away in doubt, not just Thomas, even Peter and the others went back to their fishing(John 21:3-19) profession which  signified their unbelief.   There are many reasons why someon...

"Am I seeking human approval or God's? Should I strive to please people or serve Christ?" (Galatians 1:10) Devotion: Do you often find yourself caught between pleasing people and honoring God? Paul's words above offer guidance:   Every moment presents a choice: Human Approval or God's? If your heart desires to please God, remember: - It's not about accumulating good deeds (Hebrews 11:6). Faith which means trust, is the sole requirement.   Reflect on your motives with these questions: - Are cultural trends and opinions shaping my decisions, or am I grounded in God's Word? - Do I trust Jesus' finished work, or do I believe I need to add more? - Will I stand firm in faith, even in adversity?   If seeking popularity is your goal, following Jesus may be challenging. However, if trusting God is your priority, He invites you to live differently: - Show unconditional kindness, patience, grace, and love. Ultimately, you will stand before an audience, either of ...

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction. Proverbs 1:7" Devotion : The scripture described fools as those who despise wisdom and instruction; that is, those who have no regard for wisdom and instruction. They are people who think they know it all: in the society they have no respect for God and His Word; they have no place for the law of the state or the people therein.    In addition, they only think of themselves and please themselves. It is very dangerous to be a fool because you become a tool in the hands of the devil and his cohorts of darkness. The children of God are encouraged to study the Word to show themselves approved unto God, 2 Timothy 2:15.  When we study the scriptures we develop the fear of God in us and the wisdom of God becomes our portion. Glory to God! Dear reader, what shows that you fear God?

Psalm 91, known as the "Psalm of Protection," offers a powerful message of divine safeguarding and comfort. Let's explore its key spiritual themes and meanings: 1. Divine Protection and Refuge God is our refuge and fortress, providing rest and security to those who dwell in His presence (Psalm 91:1-2). This imagery evokes a deep sense of peace and trust. 2. Trust and Faith Trust in God is paramount, as He delivers us from dangers, diseases, and hidden traps (Psalm 91:3-4). Metaphors like God's feathers and wings illustrate His protective care. 3. Spiritual Warfare Psalm 91 addresses spiritual warfare, safeguarding believers from physical and spiritual threats (Psalm 91:5-6). God's protection encompasses both day and night. 4. Angelic Assistance God commands His angels to guard believers, lifting them up and protecting them from harm (Psalm 91:11-12). This highlights divine intervention through angelic beings. 5. Promises of Deliverance and Salvation Th...

And he said unto them, Take nothing for your journey, neither staves, nor scrip, neither bread, neither money; neither have two coats apiece. Luke 9:3 KJV Devotion: The early disciples had a different kind of hardship during their time. There wasn’t any easy way around accomplishing their missions. So, preparing for a long journey could’ve been the best thing to do, yet Jesus had other plans. He wanted them to go empty-handed. Was it some sort of punishment? No. He wanted them to teach a valuable lesson: to rely only on God. Beloved, do you trust Jesus enough for all your needs? Do you value His words over your personal opinions? If you do, not only will your needs be met, but you will also save yourself from many troubles and heartaches. Remember that nothing is impossible for God. When you rely solely on God, you will see His power on display. You will witness miracles! Hallelujah! Prayer Point: My Heavenly Father, I cannot do anything without You. I want to rely on and trust You wit...

Psalms 139:13-14 NIV For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well. Devotion: Psalms 139:13-14 reveals the intricate and intimate nature of God's creation of human life. God deliberately crafted your innermost being, knitting you together in your mother's womb with precision and love (Psalm 139:13). You are a masterpiece, created for a special purpose, to worship and spread the good news of Christ.   As a fearfully and wonderfully made individual (Psalm 139:14), you possess inherent dignity and value. This reflects the greatness of God's works, reminding you to respect and honor your body as a temple of the Most High.   The psalmist's response is praise, acknowledging the wonder of God's creation. This recognition fosters a deeper appreciation for oneself and the Creator.    This passage highlights David's personal relationship w...