MIND A CHANNEL OF PEACE

 MIND A CHANNEL OF PEACE

"Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee. Isaiah 26:3" 

Devotion : The scriptures have revealed another secret to believers in Christ Jesus about how to live a peaceful life. The opening scripture says the mind is an essential channel through which Christians can live in perfect peace. If your mind is fixed on Christ Jesus, you shall enjoy perfect peace; in other words, if you fill your mind with the holy scriptures, there will be perfect peace in your life. It is also a sign that you trust God simply because the mind is the control center of man. What a man thinks in his heart so is he, Proverbs 23:7. Peace is not just the absence of war; perfect peace is a place in Christ where you are at rest, and do not struggle for anything. Dearly beloved, do you want to cease from struggle? What do you think you must do? Share your comments here!

ALWAYS SOW THE SEED OF MERCY!

 EVERYDAY IN THE WORD!

FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 25, 2020.

SUBJECT : ALWAYS SOW THE SEED OF MERCY!

Memory verse: "Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy." (Matthew 5 vs 7.)

READ Matthew 25 vs 31 - 40:

25:31: When the Son of man comes in His glory, and all the holy angels with Him, then He will sit on the throne of His glory:
25:32: All the nations will be gathered before Him, and He will separate them one from another, as a shepherd divides his sheep from the goats:
25:33: And He will set the sheep on His right hand, but the goats on the left.
25:34: Then the King will say to those on His right hand, ‘Come, you blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:
25:35: For I was an hungry, and you gave Me food; I was thirsty and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger and you took Me in;
25:36: I was naked and you clothed Me; I was sick and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.’
25:37: Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry and feed You? or thirsty, and gave You drink?
25:38: When did we see You a stranger, and take You in? or naked, and clothed You?
25:39: Or when did we see You sick, or in prison, and came to You?
25:40: And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Assuredly I say to you, Inasmuch as you have done it to one of the least of these My brethren, you have done it to Me.’

INTIMATION:

Mercy is an outward manifestation of pity; it assumes need on the part of him who receives it, and resources adequate to meet the need on the part of him who shows it. It signifies, in general, to feel sympathy with misery of another, especially manifested in act. Sowing the seed of mercy is manifesting outwardly act of pity, sympathy, or care in the life or affairs of another. Those who do this Jesus said are blessed. Being blessed means being supremely favored, and it is more than happiness. It implies the fortunate or enviable state of those who are in God’s kingdom. It is the experience of hope and joy, independent of outward circumstances. 

In the passage we read today, Jesus here lists six physical conditions of life that represent all aspects of our human service to one another. Those who engage in them, are demonstrating acts of mercy or sowing the seed of mercy in other people’s lives. These are services the righteous render to others because God has extended mercy and grace to them. Therefore, humble service to the needs of our fellow man is the manifestation of our inward gratitude for the grace of God. Those who recognize their own spiritual poverty are merciful to others. They sympathize and have pity on others. They thus seek to relieve the suffering of others because God has had mercy on them in relation to their sin. Their mercy will eventually reap mercy from God. 

The parable describes acts of mercy we all can do every day. These acts do not depend on wealth, ability, or intelligence; they are simple acts freely given and freely received. We have no excuse to neglect those who have deep needs, and we cannot overlook such needs of others if truly we are serving God, and are grateful for the grace (unmerited favor) of God in our lives. Also, God demands our personal involvement in caring for others needs (Isaiah 58 vs 7).

As Christians, the real evidence of our belief is the way we act. To treat all persons we encounter as if they were Jesus is no easy task. What we do for others demonstrates what we really think about Jesus’ words to us: Feed the hungry, give the homeless a place to stay, look after the sick, and so on. How well do your actions separate you from pretenders and unbelievers? God will separate His obedient followers from pretenders and unbelievers; the obedient followers He called blessed, while in-obedient (pretenders and unbelievers) He will reject, and are cursed. “Depart from Me, you cursed,” would be the worst words one could ever hear. God will show no mercy to those who have shown no mercy in service to their fellow humans in one form of need or the other. 

When an opportunity to show mercy comes your way, never let it slip off your hands. It may be the testing of your obedience by the Lord, especially when you are capable of helping the needy person on your path of life. If you cherish the mercy of God in your life, then show mercy to others God brings your way. Such outward manifestation of pity endears you to the Lord, He blesses you, and it’s counted for you as righteousness.

It’s noteworthy that at death the only thing that follows you to meet with your Creator is your works on earth, either good or bad. All your possessions, wealth, talents abilities, etc are abandoned here on earth. However, you will give your report to your Creator how you utilized those things He gave you for good works. If you served well with those giftings, according to His will, He will say ‘well done, enter into my rest. Therefore, how well you have served hear on earth is a prerequisite for your admission into God’s kingdom.

Prayer: Abba Father, my utmost heart desire is to serve You appropriately with all You endowed me with. Give me the grace to utilize the endowments to the benefit of others and Your kingdom for Your glory, in Jesus’ mighty Name I have prayed, Amen.

PRAISE THE LORD!

ALL WE HAVE COMES FROM GOD!

 EVERYDAY IN THE WORD!

THURSDAY SEPTEMBER 24, 2020.

SUBJECT : ALL WE HAVE COMES FROM GOD!

Memory verse: "A man can receive nothing unless it has been given to him from heaven." (John 3 vs 27.)

READ Deuteronomy 8 vs 11 - 18:

8:11: Beware that you do not forget the LORD your God by not keeping His commandments, His judgements, and His statutes which I command you today,

8:12: lest - when you have eaten and are full, and have built beautiful houses and dwell in them,

8:13: and when your herds and your flocks multiply, and your silver and gold are multiplied, and all that you have multiplied;

8:14: when your heart is lifted up, and you forget the LORD your God who brought you out of the land of Egypt, from the house of bondage;

8:15: who led you through that great and terrible wilderness, in which were fiery serpents and scorpions and thirsty land where there was no water; who brought water for you out of the flinty rock;

8:16: who fed you in the wilderness with manna, which your fathers did not know, that He might humble you and that He might test you, to do you good in the end - 

8:17: then you say in your heart, 'My power and the might of my hand have gained me this wealth.' 

8:18: And you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you power to get wealth, that He may establish His covenant which He swore to your fathers, as it is this day."

INTIMATION:

All gifts and abilities come from God. He gives us the power to get everything we have, and also, expects us to manage it for Him. It's important for us to recognize that He is our source, regardless of how much effort we put into earning a living. In times of plenty, we often take credit for our prosperity and become proud that our own hard work, and cleverness have made us rich. And when you get so busy collecting and managing our gifts, the tendency is that we push God right out of our lives. Don't forget God in your abundance, or He will remove His blessing from you.

The interesting thing about this Scripture in Deuteronomy 8 vs 18, is that God was talking to the children of Israel who would eventually enter into the Promised Land. They were going to be living in homes built for giants. The fields already had the rocks cleared out for them, the furrows were dug, and the crops were planted. The Israelites were going to step in and benefit from the labor of others. God was telling them not to forget the source of their wealth when they go from living in the desert to living in mansions with abundant property. In context, God was saying, "Don't think you got wealthy by your own might or power. I'm the One who made you rich, and I did it to establish My covenant upon the earth." The covenant He made with Abraham (Genesis 12 vs 1 - 3).

The same is true for us today. God is the One who makes us gives us all the things we have. In an environment and economy of material prosperity, however, there is always the temptation to forget God. We usually take for granted all that we receive from God, and thus pride ourselves in our own accomplishments. For instance, in our diligence to work the land, we would forget it was God who made all things grow for our prosperity.  

The people of our generation live at a level of relative prosperity that most people throughout history couldn't have dreamed of, yet we didn't do anything to be born at this time. We didn't cause ourselves to be born into such opportunity and freedom. It is quite obvious that the ability to prosper is a gift from God, and we can't boast of the opportunities we have been given. 

The remedy for materialism is to remember Him from whom all blessings flow. The materialist creates a god who originates from within himself, and thus, he humanistically worships his own ability to perform and produce. The humanist focuses on the ability of man to perform, but the saint focuses on God who brings power to one’s efforts to work to the glory of God. When we are blessed, therefore, all glory must be given to to God who gave us the gifts to produce, but also gave increase to the work of our hands. Our recognition of the fruits of our hands, therefore, is an opportunity to be grateful to God for working in our lives.

The apostle Paul emphasizes that fact in First Corinthians 4 vs 7, "For who makes you differ from another? And what do you have that you did not receive? Now if you did indeed receive it, why do you boast as if you had not received it?" Whatever you are; your talent, wisdom, skills etc, whatever assets you have; money, properties, etc, and whatever position you occupy in life, are all the act and doing of the LORD. Acknowledge Him, give Him thanks, and use your gifts properly—for service to Him. You are blessed to be a blessing (Genesis 12 vs 2).

Prayer: Abba Father, I am nothing without You. All powers belong to You, and by my strength I can do nothing. Only You strengthens me to do all I do, and all I have You have given me. You have daily loaded me with Your benefits, and I am forever grateful and thankful. Give me the grace to properly administer Your gifts given to me, that I may be a blessing to others, and a workman that needs not be ashamed, rightly applying myself for the interest of the kingdom, in Jesus Name, Amen.

PRAISE THE LORD!

THE PRESENCE OF GOD

 THE PRESENCE OF GOD

"Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain. Psalms 127:1" 

Devotion : The scripture above is not discouraging the children of God from engaging the services of laborers, building contractors, watchmen, and security men. It is good to engage them but the acknowledgement that God oversees their work is vital, because their technical knowledge is limited. It is only God who has the perfect knowledge to build strong houses, and has the intelligence to secure the city. The work of laborers and watchmen becomes effective and efficient if both the laborers/watchmen and their employers seek God's blessings. Dearly beloved, do not think you can do it all by yourself, or you might work in vain. Talk to the Holy Spirit about it. Share your comments here!

CONDITIONAL BLESSINGS

 CONDITIONAL BLESSINGS

"Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. John 15:16" 

Devotion : There are two kinds of blessings for the children of God: conditional blessings and unconditional blessings. Examples of unconditional blessings are salvation and grace; these are enjoyed by every Christian. The conditional blessings are those gotten by carrying out the desires and commandments of God. A typical example is in the opening scripture; Jesus Christ said we did not choose Him but He has chosen us to bear fruit. He further explained that if the fruit we have borne remain, the Father will give us whatsoever we ask. The fruit He is talking about is winning souls for Him. When you win a soul, use that soul as the basis for your request and God will grant you the request. Dearly beloved, you have been ordained by Christ Jesus to win souls, and you can do it. Kindly do it to enjoy uncountable blessings. Share with others what you have learnt from the above article!

PRAISE GOD ALWAYS!

 EVERYDAY IN THE WORD!

WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 23, 2020.

SUBJECT: PRAISE GOD ALWAYS! 

Memory verse: "Therefore by Him let us continually offer the sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of our lips, giving thanks to His name." (Hebrews 13 vs 15.) 

READ: Psalm 103 vs 1 - 6:

103:1: Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless His holy name!
103:2: Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all His benefits:
103:3: Who forgives  all your iniquities; who heals all your diseases;
103:4: Who redeems your life from destruction, who crowns you with lovingkindness and tender mercies, 
193:5: Who satisfies your mouth with good things; so that your youth is renewed like the eagle's.
103:6: The LORD executes righteousness and judgment for all that are oppressed.

INTIMATION:

Praise expresses admiration, appreciation, and thanks. Praise to God is expressing our appreciation and understanding of His worth. When we praise God we help ourselves by expanding our awareness of who He is. It is saying thank You for each aspect of His divine nature. We praise God not only for what He does: His creation, His blessings, His forgiveness, but also for who He is: loving, just, faithful, forgiving, patient. 

Our inward attitude becomes outward expression. Considering all that God has done for us, what could be more natural than outbursts of heartfelt praise?  

Singing praises to God can have a positive effect in our attitude. We need to always express our gratitude to God, thanking Him, praising Him, and telling others about Him. Songs of praise focus our attention on God, give us an outlet for spiritual celebration, and remind us of God’s faithfulness and character. Whether you are experiencing a great victory or a major dilemma, from the depths of your gratitude, you must praise Him, and you should share the Good News with others. David made a vow to praise God each day (Psalm 61 vs 8). David, the man after God’s heart, continually praised God through both the good and difficult times of his life. 

Praise and thanksgiving should be a regular part of our routine, not reserved only for celebrations. Our worship should begin by acknowledging God’s love. Praise God first, then you will be prepared to present your needs to Him. Recalling God’s love and mercy will inspire you to worship Him daily. Praise God continually, and you will find that you won’t take His blessings for granted. Beginning a task by praising God can inspire us to give Him our best. Develop the practice of giving praise to God, and you will experience greater joy and strength to face anything.

In the passage we read today, David’s praise focused on the good things God was doing for him. It is easy to complain about life, but David’s list gives us plenty for which to praise God. He forgives our sins, heals our diseases, redeems us from death, crowns us with lovingkindness and tender mercies, satisfies our desires, and gives righteousness and justice. We receive all of these without deserving  any of them. No matter how difficult your life’s journey, you can always count your blessings—past, present, and future. When you feel as though you have nothing for which to praise God, read David’s list. 

What does praise do? (1) Praise takes our minds off our problems and shortcomings and help us focus on God. (2) Praise leads us from individual meditation to corporate worship. (3) Praise causes us to consider and appreciate God’s character. (4) Praise lifts our perspective from the earthly to the heavenly. (5) Praise prepares our hearts to receive God’s love and the power of His Holy Spirit.

Although the Bible invites us to praise God, we often aren’t sure how to go about it. Several ways are suggested: by singing, dancing, or playing musical instruments. God enjoys His people, and we should enjoy praising Him. Praising God first puts us in the right frame of mind to tell Him about our needs. Too often our prayers are more like shopping lists than conversations. We should consider praise an acts of sacrifice—“sacrifice of our lips”and we could offer it anywhere, anytime. 

No matter what our circumstances, we should praise God. Praise brings God to your situation. In Acts 16, Paul and Silas were stripped, beaten, and placed in stocks in the cell. Stocks were made of two boards joined with iron clamps, leaving holes just big enough for the ankles. Paul and Silas, who had committed no crime and who were peaceful men, were put in stocks designed for holding the most dangerous prisoners in absolute security. Despite this dismal situation, they praised God, praying and singing as the other prisoners listened. Then God showed up, and suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken, and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's stocks were loosed. 

The keeper of the prison and his household gave their lives to Christ and the first church in the city was borne in his house. It’s noteworthy that it was in the same prison that John the Baptist was kept, but instead praising God, He was offended in Jesus, and questioned if He was the long awaited Christ. He eventually was beheaded at the request of the King’s daughter.

Prayer: Abba Father, Great are You LORD, and greatly to be praised. Give me the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. And every day will I bless You, and I will praise Your name for ever and ever, in Jesus’ great Name I have prayed, Amen.

PRAISE THE LORD! 

THE PEACE OF GOD TO US!

 EVERYDAY IN THE WORD!

TUESDAY SEPTEMBER 22, 2020.

SUBJECT: THE PEACE OF GOD TO US! 

Memory verse: "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus." (Philippians 4 vs 7.) 

READ: John 14 vs 27 - 28:

14: 27: Peace I leave with you. My peace I give you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.

14:28: You have heard Me say to you, ‘I am going away and coming back to you.’ If you love Me, you would rejoice because I said, ‘I am going to the Father ,’ for the Father is greater than I.

INTIMATION:

God's peace is different from the world's peace. True peace is not found in positive thinking, in absence of conflict, or in good feelings. It comes from knowing that God is in control, and that Christ has won the ultimate victory for us on the cross. Therefore, as believers, our citizenship in Christ's kingdom is sure, our destiny is set, and we can have victory over sin. Christ has already assured us of His continuous presence in our lives; that He will not leave us alone, He will come back to us as the Holy Spirit. Let God's peace guard your heart against anxiety.

The end result of the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives is deep and lasting peace. Unlike worldly peace, which is usually defined as the absence of conflict, this peace is confident assurance in any circumstance; with Christ’s peace, we have no need to fear the present or the future. Sin, fear, uncertainty, doubt, and numerous other forces are at war within us. The peace of God moves into our hearts and lives to restrain these hostile forces and offer comfort in place of conflict. Jesus says He will give us that peace if we are willing to accept it from Him. If your life is full of stress, allow the Holy Spirit to fill you with Christ’s peace.

Jesus said, “These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16 vs 33.) With these words He told His disciples to take courage. In spite of the inevitable struggles they would face, they would not be alone. He is saying the same thing to all believers; He does not abandon us to our struggles either. If we remember that the ultimate victory has already been won, we can claim the peace of Christ in the most troublesome times.

The apostle Paul tells the believers, “And let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to which also you were called in one body; and be thankful.” (Colossians 3 vs 15.) Paul tells us to let Christ’s peace be umpire or referee in our heart. Our heart is the center of conflict because there our feelings and desires clash—our fears and hopes, distrust and trust, jealousy and love. How can we deal with these constant conflicts and live as God wants? The apostle Paul explains that we must decide between conflicting elements by using the rule of peace that will promote peace in our souls, and our Christian community. 

The result of one’s prayerful communication with God that is based on faith is an inner tranquility that cannot be expressed in words. It is the peace of God that protects one’s heart and produces consistency in one’s thoughts. When our prayers are offered to God upon the basis of faith, and knowing that God will work in answer to our prayers, then we will gain an inner peace of heart and mind. Through the knowledge of the presence of God, we would have peace of mind. The world could not give such peace of mind because of the turmoil that is constantly in the world. 

Prayer: Abba Father, let Your peace which surpasses all understanding guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus, rule my heart at all times with inner tranquility that cannot be expressed in words because of the knowledge of Christ’s triumph for us on the cross, in Jesus’ Name I have prayed, Amen.

PRAISE THE LORD!