ojaysjoel blog

Numbers 6:26  The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. Devotion: Numbers 6:26 is part of the "Priestly Blessing", a sacred prayer that God instructed Moses to teach Aaron and his sons to bless the Israelites. This blessing is found in Numbers 6:22-27 and was given during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness after their liberation from Egypt. It was a time of uncertainty and challenges, and this blessing served as a powerful reminder of God's presence, favor, and peace with those who trust Him.   The phrase "The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace" signifies God's attention and favor toward His people. In biblical terms, God's "countenance" refers to His face or presence. When God lifts His countenance, it symbolizes His approval, grace, and peace being bestowed upon the individual. In the Bible are several incidents of God's blessings on His people. You too can receive such bless...

John 13:34  A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another. Devotion: This is the concluding part of yesterday's discussion.    Friendship plays a significant role in a believer's spiritual growth, as it provides a supportive and enriching environment for faith to flourish. Here’s how:  1. Encouragement and Accountability-    - True friends in Christ encourage one another to live according to God’s will. They lovingly challenge and correct when one strays from the path.    - Proverbs 27:17 - "As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another."  2. Spiritual Guidance:    - Godly friends can offer wisdom, share scripture, and provide counsel during challenging times, helping one discern God’s direction.    - Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 - "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their labor: If either of them falls down, one can help the other u...

1 Samuel 18:1  And it came to pass, when he had made an end of speaking unto Saul, that the soul of Jonathan was knit with the soul of David, and Jonathan loved him as his own soul. (Read 1 Samuel 18: 1-3) Devotion: Friendship is a gift that reflects God's love and design for human connection. While blood relationships are significant, there are friendships that transcend the bonds of kinship, rooted in spiritual purpose and deep mutual affection. Such friendships often mirror the relationship God desires to have with us and teach us the value of love, loyalty, and selflessness.    Biblical Examples of Friendship   1. David and Jonathan     The friendship between David and Jonathan is one of the most powerful examples in the Bible. Despite Jonathan being Saul’s son and heir to the throne, he recognized God's plan for David and supported him wholeheartedly. Their bond was marked by selflessness, loyalty, and covenant.      ...

Trusting in God is one of the core principles of faith. It implies placing unwavering confidence in His plans, wisdom, and timing, even when circumstances seem uncertain or challenging. Those who trust in God find that He never disappoints. While humans may fail, God remains steadfast and faithful, fulfilling His promises and providing in ways that exceed expectations. The Bible provides numerous stories and verses that illustrate the truth of this principle. Take the story of Abraham, for example. In Genesis 12, God called Abraham to leave his country, family, and home to journey to an unknown land that He would show him. Despite the uncertainties, Abraham trusted God. Later, in Genesis 22, Abraham displayed profound trust when he prepared to sacrifice his son Isaac, believing that God’s plan was perfect and His promises would hold true. God intervened, providing a ram for the sacrifice instead. This story emphasizes that those who trust in God, even in moments of great trial, will no...

Psalms 20:1-9 is a powerful prayer and declaration of trust in God's protection and provision. Let’s explore its meaning and use it as a prayer guidance  Discussion of the Verses 1. God’s Defense in Trouble(Verses 1-2): These verses highlight God as our defender and source of help. It is a call for God to hear our cries in times of trouble, sending aid from His sanctuary and strength from Zion. It reminds us that our help comes from the Lord, who is always present and powerful. 2. Acknowledgment of Sacrifices(Verse 3): Here, the psalmist asks God to remember and accept the offerings and sacrifices made in faith. It reflects a heart of worship and dedication to God, acknowledging Him as the provider and sustainer. 3. Fulfillment of Heart’s Desires (Verse 4): This verse is a prayer for God to grant the desires of the heart and fulfill counsel aligned with His purpose. It emphasizes God’s active involvement in shaping our plans and destinies. 4. Rejoicing in Salvation(Verse 5): There ...

1. When a woman is humble, she becomes a natural charm to her husband 2. When a woman is submissive, she gets what she desires from her husband 3. When a woman is trustworthy, she can control her husband's finances 4. When a woman is hospitable, she can host her husband's meetings 5. When a woman is friendly, she becomes her husband's best friend 6. When a woman is jovial and playful, she can unlock her husband's sad mood 7. When a woman is appreciative, she receives unexpected gifts from her husband 8. When a woman is respectful, she can attend her husband's cultural meetings with him 9. When a woman is understandable, her husband feels free to tell her even the ugly 10. When a woman is peaceful, her husband comes rushing home each time 11. When a woman is creative, she and the husband can figure out the future together ****Unfortunately when you are not any of these, it becomes so hard for you to enjoy marriage. Seek God's help to become any of the above, you ...

Psalms 91:15 KJV "He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him." Devotion: In the midst of trouble, where do you turn? Psalm 91:15 reminds us that we can call upon God, and He promises to answer. He will be with us in our struggles, deliver us from harm, and even honor us.   This verse is not just a promise, but a reminder of God's character. He is a God who listens, who cares, and who acts on our behalf.   As you face challenges today, remember that you are not alone. Call upon God, and trust in His promise to answer, deliver, and honor you. Reflection Questions: - What troubles are you facing today? - How can you call upon God in the midst of these challenges? - What does it mean to you that God promises to honor you?  Prayer: Dear God, I thank you for your promise to answer me when I call. Help me to trust in your deliverance and to seek your presence in the midst of trouble. May I honor you with my lif...