Apr 30 – Joy Unspeakable And Full Of Glory! – Pastor Anita

Whom having not seen, ye love; in whom, though now ye see him not, yet believing, ye rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory ( 1 Peter 1:8).

Psalm 16:11 says “Thou wilt shew me the path of life: in thy presence is fullness of joy; at thy right hand there are pleasures for evermore. ’’ This lets us know that the presence of God in your spirit brings indescribable joy to your life. That ’s the joy Peter describes in our opening scripture as unspeakable and full of glory. The joy of the Lord is a product of your recreated human spirit.

Some people haven’t understood the power of a joyful spirit; otherwise, they ’ll always let the joy of the Lord that’s in their spirit gain the mastery. Christianity is not a life of gloom and sadness; it ’s a call to the triumphant, joyous and blissful life in Christ. You ’re called to live joyfully in Christ every day.

Perhaps you haven’t realized it, but it’s your responsibility to keep the joy of the Spirit bubbling in your life. Whenever something tries to bother or depress you, don ’t submit to it. Rather, consciously subdue it with the joy of the Lord from within your spirit by laughing your way to victory.

As Pastor Chris says, practice laughing sessions. Joy and laughter, the Bible says, refreshes you like medicine: “ A merry heart doeth good like medicine: but a broken spirit drieth the bones ” (Proverbs 17:22). The joy of the Lord in your spirit removes heaviness and gloom from you such that you ’re always exuberant with praise to the Lord and excited about life in Christ.

Satan and the cohorts of darkness can ’t stand an atmosphere of joy, love and gladness! Therefore maintain a joyful atmosphere in your home and all around you at all times, irrespective of how you feel! Remember, the joy of the Lord is your strength, so even in the face of challenges you can rejoice with joy unspeakable and full of glory, knowing that your victory is assured.

Confession
I rejoice exceedingly today with joy unspeakable and full of glory, for the Lord has done great and wondrous things in my life! Thus, my heart rejoices in His goodness, for He has filled my mouth with laughter. I ’m strengthened because the joy of the Lord in my spirit is my strength. Gloom, depression and heaviness are far from me, for I carry an atmosphere of joy with me everywhere I go, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Nehemiah 8:10; Isaiah 12:3; Romans 14:17

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 23:50-24:12;2 Samuel 7-8

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 6:30-44;Numbers 3

Apr 29 – Mix Faith With Prophecies – Pastor Chris

Don’t fool yourself into thinking that you are a listener when you are anything but, letting the Word go in one ear and out the other. Act on what you hear! ( James 1:22 MSG).

2 Chronicles 20 gives us an account of how King Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah sought help from the Lord when they were faced with threats of war from powerful enemy nations. God, in helping them, didn ’t raise an army to defend Judah against their enemies. Rather He ministered to them through prophecy. He anointed a man in their midst named Jahaziel, and he brought forth a word from God to comfort Jehoshaphat and the people of Judah saying, “… Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the Lord unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed …Ye shall not need to fight in this battle…to morrow go out against them: for the Lord will be with you ” (2 Chronicles 20:15-17).

King Jehoshaphat and the people received the word of prophecy gladly. They didn ’t argue or try to reason out in their heads how God was going to help them defeat their enemies; they knew that if God said it, then it was done! Thus, they aligned their plans and acted on the words of exhortation, edification and comfort that came forth under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. As far as they were concerned, God had spoken to them through the words of prophecy Jahaziel gave, and they ran with it and had the victory they required!

The Bible tells us not to despise prophecies (1 Thessalonians 5:20), for they’re the tools and weapons we need to fight and win in our fight of faith. Paul exhorting young Timothy said, “Timothy, my child, I entrust to you this command, which is in accordance with the words of prophecy spoken in the past about you. Use those words as weapons in order to fight well” (1 Timothy 1:18 GNB). In other words, Paul was admonishing Timothy, and of course the rest of us to act on prophecies —prophecies that you’ve judged to be consistent with the Word of God! Rejoice when you receive such words in your spirit.

When the Word of God is spoken forth in power, under the inspiration of God ’s Spirit, whether by foretelling of future events, or as a “rhema-word,” it produces results. However, we must as always, mix the Word with faith to obtain the expected results.

Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for the power of your good and eternal Word that ’s at work in me today, having embraced it as the more sure Word of prophecy — to live by, and build my life on! By the power of your Word, I fight to win in the good fight of faith today, and every day, in the Name of Jesus. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Joel 2:28; 1 Timothy 1:18-19

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 23:26-49;2 Samuel 4-6

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 6:14-29;Numbers 2

Apr 28 – You Stand In Jesus’ Stead – Pastor Chris

And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you ( John 16:23).

As Christians, we don’t need an intermediary between us and the Father. Hence we don ’t pray to the Father through Jesus, but in the Name of Jesus. To pray through Jesus is to make Him our medium or intermediary to the Father, and that ’s wrong. But to pray in the Name of Jesus means you ’re standing in the place of Jesus; you ’ve become His voice!

All through the Scriptures, there ’s no place where the Christian is asked to pray to Jesus or through Jesus. Neither do you ask the Father to grant your request for “Jesus’ sake,” for God wouldn’t answer your prayers for Jesus’ sake. He loves you as much as He loves Jesus. So when you pray to the Father in the Name of Jesus, it ’s as though Jesus Himself were praying, because you stand in His stead.

In Philippians 2:9, the Holy Spirit reveals to us through the Apostle Paul that “…God also hath highly exalted him (Jesus), and given him a name which is above every name. ” In other words, the Name of Jesus is the biggest Name in heaven. So whatever you ask the Father in the Name of Jesus is granted you because of the authority of JESUS—the One in whose Name you’re asking! Jesus gave us the legal right to use His Name. Not having the right understanding of how to use that Name will make your prayer life ineffective. We have the right ofattorney to function in His stead, the same way a delegated member of a president ’s cabinet can represent him at a state function.

So, every time you pray to the Father, in the Name of Jesus, be conscious that you ’re praying in Jesus’ stead; therefore, whatsoever you ask the Father in His Name, He will give it to you. Jesus has delegated His authority to you; the same authority He had on earth. So today, you can request anything in His Name, and it will be granted you.

Prayer
Heavenly Father, I thank you for teaching me how to pray the right way, using the Name of Jesus! I declare today that I ’m making progress in my life and bringing glory to you because the Name of Jesus is named upon me! I function in, and by the power of that Name today! Hallelujah.

FURTHER STUDY:
John 16:23-27

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 22:66-23:25; 2 Samuel 1-3

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 6:1-13;Numbers 1

Apr 27 – Praise Your Way To Victory – Pastor Anita

Along about midnight, Paul and Silas were at prayer and singing a robust hymn to God. The other prisoners couldn ’t believe their ears (Acts 16:25 MSG).

2 Chronicles 20 gives the inspiring account of how the children of Judah were surrounded and outnumbered by three enemy nations. Then the king of Judah, Jehoshaphat, proclaimed a fast throughout the land, and while they prayed and fasted, the Spirit of the Lord came upon Jahaziel the Levite and he spoke forth the mind of God: “And he said, Hearken ye, all Judah, and ye inhabitants of Jerusalem, and thou king Jehoshaphat, Thus saith the Lord unto you, Be not afraid nor dismayed by reason of this great multitude; for the battle is not yours, but God ’s” (2 Chronicles 20:15).

With those words of prophecy burning in his spirit, king Jehoshaphat consulted with the people and appointed singers unto the Lord, to march ahead of the troops, singing, “… Praise the Lord; for his mercy endureth for ever” (2 Chronicles 20:21). As they sang and praised God, the power of God was activated, and their enemies were discomfited! They praised their way to victory! The fervency and vibrancy of their praise caused the angels of God to go into action and cause pandemonium in the enemy ’s camp! The enemy soldiers turned their swords on each other, killing one another. By the time God ’s people got to the scene the enemies were all dead! (2 Chronicles 20:22-24).

You discomfit the enemy and activate the power of God when you praise God from your spirit fervently and passionately, irrespective and independent of circumstances! Paul and Silas experienced this when they were imprisoned for doing the Lord ’s will. Rather than gripe, complain or despair, they praised their way to victory! They stirred the power of God ’s Spirit through praise and they were gloriously delivered (Acts 16:25-26).

I urge you to put this to work in your life always! Learn to praise your way to victory, irrespective of the seemingly hopeless situation you may be facing. The Bible says “In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you ” (1 Thessalonians 5:18). As you offer words of praise to the Lord from your spirit and extol His majesty, irrespective of the adversity, you ’re establishing your victory. So, in spite of that challenge or difficult situation, shout His praise; and your victory will be undenied.

Prayer
Dear Father I thank you for your love, kindness, mercy and grace towards me today and always! Thank you for being such a faithful Lord and deliverer. I exalt your holy Name for the victory that I have in you, and the glorious life that you ’ve given me in Christ, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Psalm 22:3; Acts 16:25-26

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 22:39-65;1 Samuel 29-31

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 5:35-43;Leviticus 27

Apr 26 – What Have You Done With The Word? – Pastor Chris

Put into action the word I covenanted with you when you left Egypt. I ’m living and breathing among you right now. Don ’t be timid. Don’t hold back (Haggai 2:5 MSG).

There’s a new understanding the Spirit of God wants us to have as to the way He wants us to think and function in life. He wants us to know it ’s our responsibility, not God ’s, to see to it that His Word comes to pass in our lives! His Word has already been given, and it ’s forever settled in heaven (Psalm 119:89). He said in Isaiah 55:11 “So shall my word be that goeth forth out of my mouth: it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it. ”

Thus, the infallibility and power of God ’s Word is incontestable. The Word will work and produce result for anyone who acts on it. So your responsibility as a Christian is to work the Word and bring it to pass in your life! Someone may say, “ I’ve been a Christian for twenty five years, but I can’t see what the Word of God has done for me !” The Word of God wasn’t meant to do anything for you; it was given to you to live by; to chart your course in life, you ’re the one to do something with the Word! So what have you done with the Word? That ’s the question you should answer!

For example, at the beginning of this year, the Lord gave you His Word —a theme for the year. What have you done with that word? You ’re supposed to take it and run with it! You tell yourself “I’m going to be a burning and a shining light everywhere I go! The fire of God for the Gospel will burn in my bones; therefore I ’ll not keep quiet but makeHis salvation known to the world! I ’m going to light up my world and impact the lives of men and women with the power of God !”

If this becomes your consciousness you ’ll be amazed at the extent and magnitude of your testimonies of victory and success at the end of the year! Some people who don ’t understand this are still expecting the year to bring them something, not realizing they ’re the ones to bring something into the year by acting on the Word. God ’s Word always produces results when you act on it! If you sit and wait for the results to come, you ’ll never get them.

Think for a moment about 1 Peter 2:24: “…by whose stripes ye were healed,” what have you done with this truth? For a Christian to cry to God for healing having come across this truth means he ’s ignorant or trying to shelve his responsibility. You ’re the caretaker of your body and you ought to decide what happens to it. If anything goes wrong with it, then heal it with the Word of God! Do something today with the Word that has already been given to you!

Confession
I ’m what God says I am. The Word of God is working in me mightily and moving me forward. This I prove today by putting it to work in every area of my life and I see it produce in me what it talks about. Praise God!

FURTHER STUDY:
James 1:22-25

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 22:1-38;1 Samuel 26-28

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 5:21-34;Leviticus 26

Apr 25 – Christ Alive In You! – Pastor Chris

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light ( 1 Peter 2:9).

Christianity is not a religion; it ’s Christ alive in you; divinity at work in humanity. As Christians, we are called to show Christ alive to our world. The world knows that He died, but many are not sure where He went to; they need proof that He was truly raised from the dead. Our responsibility therefore is to present Him alive in our day.

This understanding informed the song we used in years gone by as theme song for our crusades. Back then we would go into villages and areas in the back side of civilization singing: “He’s alive, amen, He’s alive, Jesus is alive forever He’s alive amen!” It was such a great crusade song and it got people inquiring to know more about Jesus being alive. The import of that song could be an objective fact to many, but until it becomes a subjective reality to you, you haven ’t started.

This is the reason every Christian has to be alive —a live-wire—for we’re ministering one who was raised from the dead; we ’re ministering the risen Christ. It ’s one thing to preach or announce that Jesus is alive; it ’s another thing to show Him alive. Our responsibility is to show Him alive. Often times we say “Christ lives in me,” yes He does. But that doesn’t mean He’s expressed through you. So thequestion you must answer is whether He talks, walks or lives through you. Is He alive in you?

Blessed be God, Christ is alive in me! He ’s alive in every fiber of my being, every bone of my body, and every cell of my blood! He lives in me. So I ’ll never be defeated. I’m a success for life, because He lives in me. This should be your thinking; you ’re His living tabernacle; you carry Him everywhere you go! When you show up, He shows up. Believe it, for that ’s Christianity; Christ taking up His abode in you and touching the world through you!

Confession
Christ is alive in me, in every fiber of my being, every bone of my body, every cell of my blood. He’s the living light of my life, and I shine forth with His glory today! My life is a manifestation of His glory as I live for Him daily. Hallelujah

FURTHER STUDY:
Romans 1:1-4

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 21:5-38;1 Samuel 23-25

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 5:14-20;Leviticus 25

Apr 24 – God Knows What To Do With You! – Pastor Anita

O Lord, thou hast searched me, and known me. Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off ( Psalm 139:1-2).

You may have assessed your life and wondered why God would be interested at all in someone like you. Perhaps, you ’ve always thought of yourself as a “no good”, a wreck and a failure. Or maybe those around you have often reminded you of how you ’ll never amount to anything in life. But I want you to know that God ’s opinion of you is completely different. He knows what to do with your life; you ’re not a surprise to Him at all!

God is experienced in bringing people up. I often remind Him of this when I pray and I mention the names of those I ’ve read about in the Bible, like Moses, David, Solomon and many other individuals whose lives are a great inspiration to me. So you see, your case is not strange to Him. He knows exactly what to do to train someone like you, and make you the success that he planned for you to be. He ’s not confused at all as to what to do about your situation!

God is Omniscient, so there’s nothing He doesn’t know about. Your life or the situation you may be in right now isn ’t confusing to Him. He doesn’t need to sleep over a thought concerning you, wondering what to do about your situation. He knows all the mistakes you could ever make. All He wants is for you to trust Him to make you that man or woman He ’s created you to be, for He’s able to do anything.

He’s the Master builder, life- maker, and life-giver. Today, He says to you, “Follow me and I’ll make you…!” Give Him your heart, and let your eyes observe His ways. Trust Him with your life and do His Word, and He ’ll cause all your heart desires and dreams for success to come to pass.

Confession
I refuse to be discouraged by the circumstances around me, for I most assuredly know that my life is secure in the Lord my God. My trust, O Lord, is in you alone, for you ’re my strength, my glory and my song! I love you so much! I thank you, because ever before the foundations of the earth, you ordained me to be a success; you ’ve made my life so beautiful!

FURTHER STUDY:
Jeremiah 32:27; Jeremiah 1:5

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 20:20-21:4;1 Samuel 20-22

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 5:1-13;Leviticus 24

Apr 23 – Power To Save YOU – Pastor Chris

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek (Romans 1:16).

The Gospel is the power of God unto salvation. What this means is that the power of God to heal, deliver, strengthen, help and rescue anyone is wrapped up in the Gospel. This is easy to understand considering the fact that the word “ salvation” derives from the Greek word “soteria” which is an all-inclusive word that typifies the entire acts, processes and results of our redemption in Christ Jesus. In other words, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, which is the good news of Christ’s salvation, is the power by which God saves, heals, protects, delivers, preserves and prospers men.

However, this power only works for those who believe as our opening scripture reveals: “For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek (Romans 1:16). Yes, God is all-powerful and His power is unlimited and available to everyone, but that power will not save, heal, deliver or prosper you until you believe in the God that makes the power available. You must believe in God, and in Jesus Christ whom He has sent, and receive eternal life.

God has power to create whatever He wants. He has power over the universe and over His angels; He can do anything. However, His power to save men is the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The power of God to bring someone out of trouble, distress, sin and death is in the good news of Christ ’s salvation.

Everyone that hears and believes the Gospel is at once translated into the Kingdom of God ’s dear Son, and becomes a partaker of God ’s divine nature! He becomes an associate of the God-kind, having received God ’s eternal and immortal life, for through the Gospel, the Bible says, life and immortality have been brought to light (2 Timothy 1:10).

Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for granting me the grace to receive and believe the Gospel of Christ ’s salvation, thereby making me a sharer and participator in the divine experience. Thank you for the message of Christ which is your power to preserve and sustain me in the divine life, in Jesus ’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
1 Corinthians 1:18; 2 Timothy 1:8-10

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 20:1-19;1 Samuel 18-19

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 4:30-41;Leviticus 23

Apr 22 – You’re The Restraining Force Against Evil – Pastor Chris

For the mystery of iniquity doth already work: only he who now letteth will let, until he be taken out of the way And then shall that Wicked be revealed, whom the Lord shall consume with the spirit of his mouth, and shall destroy with the brightness of his coming ( 2 Thessalonians 2:7-8).

The Apostle Paul in our opening scripture talks about the second coming of Christ, and shows us that we ’re the restraining force against evil in our day. The only reason satan has not led the world to man ’s total annihilation is because of the resistance put forth by the body of Christ — the Church (1Corinthians 12:27). Our presence in the earth preserves it, and forbids satan from unleashing terror upon it.

But someone might say, “ There’s so much evil and terror in the world already.” Well, that should let you know how much worse it could have been but for our being here! We ’re the ones preserving the earth (Matthew 5:13) and limiting the power of the evil one.

Man, on his own, is capable and wicked enough to destroy himself: “For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders, thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: All these evil things come from within …” (Mark 7:21-23). But the prayers of the saints have prevented satan in our day and in days gone by from holding sway over men ’s lives. For example, when the death angel came into Egypt, he needed a sign (blood marks on the lintel and doorposts) of the children of Israel to restrain him from destroying God ’s people.

Same way, you’re that preventive power against evil today in your home, in your family and amongst your lovedones! The fact that you belong to Christ means His blood is marked on you, and His Name is named upon you! Therefore, when the evil one comes, he passes over you and those of your household. Your presence in a place prevents the devil from dominating and wielding wicked influence over the lives of men and women in that place, because you represent the Body of Christ there.

Understand that you’re the reason there’s a check on the works of darkness in your world, such that men’s lives are preserved and influenced with the Gospel. That ’s why you shouldn’t take prayer lightly, especially praying in the Holy Spirit. It dispels the works of darkness and puts to flight the devil and his cohorts. As you speak in other tongues, satan and his demons are perplexed and frustrated, and their evil works vanquished!

Prayer
Dear Father, thank you for making me the restraining force against evil in my family, and in my world! Indeed, I ’m the light of the world and the salt of the earth! Therefore I stand my ground in intercession today and declare that the forces of evil in and around me are quelled and overturned in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Ephesians 6:10-18

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 19:28-48;1 Samuel 16-17

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 4:21-29;Leviticus 22

Apr 21 – A Continual Overflow – Pastor Anita

And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit … (Ephesians 5:18).

In our opening scripture, the Apostle Paul was writing to a Church that was already acquainted with the doctrine of the Holy Spirit. He wasn ’t telling them to receive the Holy Spirit afresh! As you study the book of Acts, you would see that from time to time, Luke, by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit talked about the Apostles and how that they were constantly filled with the Spirit.

In Acts chapter 2, when Peter and the other believers received the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, simultaneously. But they continued to experience other times of infilling. An account is recorded in Acts 4:31: “… when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness.” This wasn’t referring to the Apostles alone, but all the other believers with them.

The story in Acts 4 also tells us of Peter and John’s arrest while they preached that Jesus had resurrected from the dead. But while the magistrates, elders and scribes were assembled in Jerusalem for Peter ’s trial before the Sanhedrin, the Bible says “Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel …” (Acts 4:8). Notice that this incident wasn’t referring to Peter receiving the Holy Spirit, but that he was filled with the Spirit.

A Christian who has received the Holy Spirit without experiencing this continual infilling will live an ordinary life in this world. The Apostle Paul lived an extraordinary life because he understood the importance of being constantly filled with the Spirit. To the Church in Corinth, he said “I thank my God, I speak with tongues more than ye all …” 1 Corinthians 14:18). You can get yourself filled with the Spirit today as you speak in other tongues, study the Word of God, and give yourself to it in meditation.

Prayer
Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for filling me with your precious Holy Spirit, and causing your Word to dwell in me richly, causing my heart to overflow with psalms, hymns and spiritual songs that declare your goodness, mercy and grace to all generations. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Acts 1:8; Ephesians 5:18-20

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 19:1-27;1 Samuel 14-15

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 4:13-20;Leviticus 21

Apr 20 – Be Strong AndCourageous; Irrespective OfYour Experiences! – PastorChris

Blessed be God, even the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies, and the God of all comfort; Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them which are in any trouble, by the comfort wherewith we ourselves are comforted of God ( 2 Corinthians 1:3-4).

In life, even as Christians, some people sometimes go through some very unpleasant experiences and pains. It could be some lofty expectations that didn ’t come to pass, or even the sudden death of a loved one. Such challenging moments often pose serious tests to our faith, leaving us with the choice to either cave in and be overwhelmed, or embrace our circumstances with the right attitude of faith and be strengthened.

Our opening scripture is quite instructive as to what we must do in such trying moments. The Apostle Paul, in those verses, acknowledges the tribulations he encountered and the ensuing comfort he received from the Lord. He added that the comfort he received was to the intent that he might be able to comfort others who are in any trouble, by the same comfort with which he was comforted by God. In other words, Paul chose to see his trials as moments of training, to prepare and equip him with the ability to help others in their times of trouble. What an attitude!

He didn’t grumble, complain, become discouraged or blame God for allowing such pains to be his lot. He looked away from them and took a hold of the comfort of the Spirit so he could help others by comforting them with the Word. In 2 Corinthians 4:17, he alluded to those trials and pains as “ light affliction.” This should be your attitude as a child of God.

It’s important that you don’t allow any hurtful or unpleasant experience overwhelm you! Never allow yourself to be weighed down in the dust of pain and misery! Rather, always, be hopeful and courageous, irrespective of your experience. This is the winning attitude. Remember that God has given you His life which you’ll account for. So on the day of reckoning you ’re not going to use the excuse of the pain and disappointments you experienced as reasons you couldn ’t fulfill His calling for your life. So I urge you to be courageous and put on strength today, and always, irrespective of the challenges you may have faced.

Prayer
Dear Father, thank you for the comfort of the Scriptures! Your Word indeed is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. I’m so grateful to learn from you today that no matter what happens, I ’m a victor in Christ Jesus! I maintain that right attitude of faith and victory today, and always, in Jesus ’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
1 John 4:4;1 John 5:4

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 18:15-43;1 Samuel 11-13

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 4:1-12;Leviticus 20

Apr 19 – Faith MakesHealing A Reality – PastorChris

Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray, believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them ( Mark 11:24).

There’re those who say they’ve been hoping, fasting and praying to get healed for years. It ’s common to hear such people console themselves with the words “ I know that God will heal me someday.” One major problem such people have is their inability to distinguish faith from hope. The Bible tells us in Hebrews 11:1 “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. ” In other words, faith calls done and real what you ’ve hoped for. It’s like the title deed to a property. You don ’t have to be in the property to know it’s yours; the title deed with you is as good as the property in your hands. So faith is a title deed.

But hope on the other hand is to look at something coming in the future; it ’s to put your expectation into the future. Faith declares that it is real and lives in the reality of it now. Thus, to activate healing for your body, what you need is to lay claim to it NOW! You have to declare that the healing has become real. Calling it real establishes it in your life. But to keep hoping that God will set you free one day is not faith; even though you believe it, it ’s not going to work because hope will keep pushing your healing into the future.

So what you’re supposed to do is take your healing now! Don ’t wait anymore! If you want your situation to change, it ’s got to be by faith and not hope. Hoping and believing that it will happen will not change your situation; it ’s faith that makes your healing a reality. Healing and health are your God-ordained rights through faith in the Name of Jesus.

Confession
The life of Christ in me causes health to spring forth in every fiber of my being! The same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead lives in me, therefore my whole body is vitalized with the health of God; I have divine health NOW, in Jesus ’ Name.

Further Study:
1 Peter 2:24; 3 John 1:2

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 17:20-18:14;1 Samuel 8-10

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 3:20-35;Leviticus 19

Apr 18 – The Guide Within – Pastor Anita

I will put my spirit within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and ye shall keep my judgments, and do them ( Ezekiel 36:27).

The first requirement for salvation according to Romans 10:9 is for you to declare, profess, announce, and affirm the Lordship of Jesus Christ over your life: “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. ” Lord means master, controller, instructor, caretaker, and leader.

It brings to mind what David said in Psalm 23:2: “He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. ” Thus, you have a controller within, who leads you, guides you and tells you what to do such that you don ’t need a code of conduct to do what’s right. He’s within you, guiding you as to specific steps to take, specific thoughts to think, and specific things to do. As the Psalmist says, “…He leadeth me in the paths of righteousness, for His name ’s sake” (Psalm 23:3).

There’s a force of wisdom and righteousness at work in you now, because the Greater One lives in you! He guides and instructs you from within —in the paths of righteousness—propelling you to do right and fulfil the will of God for your life. This is the reason the Apostle Paul in his epistle to the Romans declared that “…sin shall not have dominion over you …” (Romans 6:14). Sin can no longer have the mastery or lordship over you because you ’ve yielded to the Lordship of Jesus. Now, you have inside you, a propelling force from within to do the will of God: “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure ” (Philippians 2:13). Thus, you can break the power of sin and put an end to any bad habit in your life today. You don ’t have to despair of life because hitherto, you ’ve tried fruitlessly to desist from certain terrible or sinful habits! All you have to do is proclaim: “In the Name of Jesus Christ, sin has no dominion over me. I break its hold right now, by the power of God ’s Spirit,” and that’s it! You’ll be free. Praise God!

Prayer
Jesus Christ is Lord of my life; I refuse to be in bondage to any habit or lifestyle that ’s contrary to the Word of God. I have the Greater One living in me, and He guides and propels me from within, in the paths of righteousness and leads me to fulfil my destiny in God! Amen

Further Study:
Ezekiel 36:26-27; 1 John 4:4

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 17:1-19, 1 Samuel 3-7

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 3:8-19 ; Leviticus 18

Apr 17 – Create Opportunities From Challenges – Pastor Chris

There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it ( 1 Corinthians 10:13).

A young Christian lady once asked if it was a sin to go to work on Sunday, instead of Church, since the nature of her job demanded it. No, it ’s not a sin but you’ve got to learn to create opportunities to accommodate such challenges. The Bible says in Hebrews 10:25 “Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching. ” This is very instructive about attending Church services in your local assembly.

The case of Christians living in Arab countries for example readily comes to mind in reviewing such peculiar cases. Now, in many of such countries, Sundays are workdays, while Fridays are set apart for religious activities. So, main service days for most of these Christians would be on Fridays since they go to work on Sundays. Is that then a sin? No! They ’re only making the best of the situation.

So, likewise, if as a Christian you find yourself in a situation where your job makes it difficult for you to attend church service on Sundays, what you need do is to bring the Church to your place of work. You can start up a cell; talk to your pastor and discuss the possibility of starting a fellowship at your place of work.

That way, you and your Christian colleagues who maybe facing the same challenges can then come to work, perhaps an hour before the scheduled time of resumption or at break time and fellowship together! By so doing, you’d have solved not only your problem but that of several others. Then you ’d also have successfully turned a challenging situation into an opportunity for the Gospel, to the glory of God.

Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, I thank you for my spiritual senses are sharpened to see and know when a door of opportunity opens for me. By your wisdom, I make the right choices and decisions and take full advantage of every opportunity you give me, in making impact in my world with the Gospel, in Jesus ’ Name. Amen

Further Study:
Matthew 18:20; Romans 14:5

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 16:1 Samuel 1-2

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 3:1-7 ;Leviticus 17

Apr 16 – True Humility IsSubmitting To The LordshipOf The Word – Pastor Chris

And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross. Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name ( Philippians 2:8-9).

Humility is a quality of the recreated human spirit that attracts divine favour and promotion. It ’s an inner ability—a vital force—which enables you to respond with absolute submissiveness to the Lordship of Jesus Christ through the Word of God. It ’s often expressed in action by the willingness to take on the responsibility of service to others, in loyalty to the Word.

The Lord Jesus lived a practical example of what true humility is. Firstly, He demonstrated His total submission to the will of God as it is written in Hebrews 10:7: “Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God. ” Secondly, in pursuance of this resolve, the Bible tells us in Philippians 2:6-9, that though He was equal with God, He didn ’t count His equality with God anything to latch on to. Rather, He made Himself of no reputation and took upon Him the form of a servant and became obedient unto death. Thus, for this reason God exalted Him and gave Him a Name which is above every name.

As believers in Christ, the Scriptures enjoin us to humble ourselves under the mighty hand of God that we might be exalted in due time (1 Peter 5:6). We’re to have the mind of Christ and emulate His humility. True humility for us is to be submissive to the Lordship of the Word ofGod. So you ’ve got to know the Word and let the Word guide your thoughts, your words, and all you do. That ’s the way to be submissive to Jesus, for He is the Living Word. And just as Jesus was exalted for doing the Father ’s will, you too will be promoted from glory to glory.

Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for blessing me with your Word and for the glorious life you ’ve given me in Christ! I’m glad to have Jesus as Lord of my life; to be controlled and ruled by His Word! Thus, I ’m moving upward and forward and prospering in everything I do, in Jesus ’ Name. Amen.

Further Study :
1 Peter 5:5-6; James 4:10

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 15:11-32;Ruth 1-4

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 2:23-28;Leviticus 16

Apr 15 – Faith Responds ToThe Word! – Pastor Anita

So also faith, if it does not have works (deeds and actions of obedience to back it up), by itself is destitute of power (inoperative, dead) ( James 2:17 AMP).

As Pastor Chris teaches, faith doesn ’t ask “how?” “How do I get the money?” “How can I say I’m healed when I’m still in pain?” These are questions and responses borne out of unbelief. Faith responds only to the Word! Faith is doing what God tells you to do without asking Him how. So when He says “You have everything you need for that project you’re working on,” your faith- response should be “Thank you Lord Jesus! I have everything I need. ”

The Scriptures show us examples of men and women who leapt on the truth of God ’s Word and received their desired miracle. For example, there’s the touching story in Luke 7 of the Roman centurion whose servant was at the point of death. When he heard that Jesus was on His way to heal his servant, he sent a message to the Master saying “You don’t need to come here Lord! Just say the Word and my servant will be healed. ” That was a remarkable faith-response that got the Master ’s attention, and the Bible says He marveled at the centurion ’s great faith.

On another occasion, a woman came and pleaded with Jesus to heal her daughter who was tormented by a devil (Mark 7:25). The Master said to her, “…go thy way; the devil is gone out of thy daughter” (Mark 7:29). That was all the woman needed to hear, and she knew her daughter had been healed. She took the Master at His Word, and acted on what He said; her spirit got a hold of that word and she got her miracle! This is what you must do today if you need a miracle. Take God at His Word. Respond in faith on the basis of His Word to you, knowing that He’s able to do exceeding, abundantly above what your mind can fathom.

Understand that faith is active and not passive; it’s the response of your spirit to the Word of God. In other words, faith depends on the Word as basis and assurance for action! Faith acts now because it has taken possession. That’s why the Bible says, “…faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone ” (James 2:17). That means faith without corresponding action is dead. Your faith works when you respond to God’s Word by putting it to work in your life.

Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for your Word that transports me into a higher realm of life. I respond today to your Word by faith and receive in my life the harvest of what it talks about, in Jesus ’ Name. Amen. Further Study:James 1:22-25

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 14:25-15:10;Judges 19-21

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 2:13-22;Leviticus 15

Apr 14 – Refuse To Be Distracted – Pastor Chris

And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God ( Luke 9:62).

To understand what Jesus wanted us to catch in the verse above, let ’s read it from The Living Bible: “Any man who lets himself be distracted from the work I planned for him is not fit for the kingdom. ” The work God has planned for you to do is very important and He doesn ’t want anything to distract you from finishing it.

A distraction is an obstacle to attention; it is that lingering concern that takes you away from the things that really matter to God. For instance, a lady who ’s seeking to get pregnant could be so distracted by her “need” to the point that that’s all she prays, talks and thinks about! Now, instead of praying progressively about her life and the lives of others, all she prays is “ Oh God, give me a child.” That’s a distraction.

The Bible says, “Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart ” (Psalms 37:4). If you refuse to worry, but rather delight yourself in serving the Lord, everything will fall into place for you; He ’ll grant your heart’s desires. Refuse to be distracted by the cares of this life. Don ’t allow the negative things people say about you get your attention. There ’s so much of God’s work to be done, so you can’t afford to let such things distract you.

The one important question the Lord will ask you when you stand before His Judgment Seat is about the work He gave you to do — about the Gospel. All excuses will be irrelevant. Keep your focus on the goal from now, so that at the end of time, you ’ll be able to boldly declare like the Apostle Paul: “ I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith ” (2 Timothy 4:7).

Confession
I refuse to worry about anything in this life because I ’m a child of God, and I know all things work together for my good. No negative thought, comment or situation can distract me from the work God has planned for me to do! I ’m living every day, to fulfill my destiny in God, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Proverbs 4:25-27; Mark 4:19

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 14:1-24;Judges 17-18

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 2:1-12:Leviticus 14

Apr 13 – Our Preparation In Prayer – Pastor Chris

And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness ( Acts 4:31).

In our drive for soul- winning, something important we must take into consideration is our preparation in prayer. Our preparation in prayer is crucial to the success of any soul-winning endeavour you might want to undertake, be it one-on-one evangelism, church services, or even crusades. As you prayerfully prepare for such outings, you make grace available for your hearers to receive the Gospel and profit by it.

Once, years ago, two blind women went for a crusade. While at the crusade, they listened, not understanding English or the language of interpretation. All they knew was that the crusade was a meeting where Jesus was being preached, and healings were taking place. The interesting thing was they both received their sight that night. How did faith come to them? It was by the Spirit; the Holy Spirit granted them understanding of what was being said though they naturally didn ’t understand the spoken languages.

It’s like what happened on the day of Pentecost; the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples present at the Upper Room and they all spoke with other tongues. They made so much noise that a multitude gathered to see what was going on. As Peter and the other disciples spoke in other tongues, the Bible says, “…every man heard them speak in his own language ” (Acts 2:6). The multitude was confused because they knew the disciples were all Galileans, yet they spoke in their mother tongues. This was a miracle indeed because God gave the onlookers understanding of what the disciples said in other tongues.

Our preparation in prayer causes miracles like these to happen! Perhaps you ’ve invited someone to church who isn ’t born again and you want him to receive salvation; here ’s where your preparation in prayer comes in. Your prayer releases the ministry of the Spirit such that, no matter what the preacher is talking about, even if it isn ’t about salvation, that invitee would receive understanding about salvation because the Holy Spirit is a master communicator. He can bring the message of the Gospel to everyone at their level.

Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for giving me the opportunity to preach the Gospel and be a blessing to my world. I pray for everyone who will hear your message through me, that grace will be granted them to understand and receive it with faith, in Jesus ’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY:
Ephesians 1:15-18; Luke 24:45

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan: Mark 13:22-35;Judges 14-16

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 1:40-45;Leviticus 13

Apr 12 – Higher Levels Of Revelations – Pastor Anita

…Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ ( Ephesians 4:13).

If you observe the Apostle Paul ’s communication in his Epistles to the Churches, you ’ll discover that the level of their revelation determined how he communicated with them. To the Corinthian Church for example, he said “And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ. I have fed you with milk, and not with meat: for hitherto ye were not able to bear it, neither yet now are ye able (1Corinthians 3:1-2).

Paul chided them for walking as babes in Christ whose understanding of spiritual realities was yet shallow. Thus, he fed them with milk; baby food, because they couldn’t grasp the higher revelations— meat of God’s Word. How important it is for us to constantly grow in Christ and increase our knowledge of the Word of God! Too many in the Church today fit the description Paul gave of the Corinthian Church; they ’re still in the babyhood stage of Christianity. But God ’s purpose is not for us to be spiritual toddlers, but to grow unto perfection and function at higher levels of His truth.

It brings to mind the words of Jesus in Matthew 15:26 for example, where He referred to healing as the children ’s bread. In other words, the babes in Christ— spiritual infants—are the ones that require healing. Whereas the Lord ’s desire is for you to mature in the things of the Spirit, and come up to a level where you no longer fall sick, requiring healing! It ’s a level where you’re fully conscious that divine health is at work in you NOW, because the same Spirit that raised Christ from the dead, quickens, vitalizes, repairs, and energizes your mortal body (Romans 8:11).

God wants you to function in the higher revelations of His Word; and the level of truth in which you function is largely dependent on how acquainted you are with the Spirit of God and His Word. The Holy Spirit is your Teacher.Ask Him today, and He ’ll teach you the Word of God and impart higher revelations to your spirit that ’ll cause you to walk in His greater levels of wisdom, power, and glory.

Prayer
Dear Father, thank you for opening the eyes of my heart to see the truth of your Word beyond the letters. As I study and meditate on the Word today, I receive deeper truths that ’ll help me know you more, serve you better and live the triumphant life in Christ to the full, in Jesus’ Name.

Further Study:
2 Timothy 2:15; Proverbs 11:9; Romans 11:33

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 13:1-21:Judges 12-13

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 1:29-39;Leviticus 12

Apr 11 – Your Needs Are Already Met – Pastor Chris

And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it ( John 14:13-14).

Only someone with sovereign authority and power can make a statement such as is underlined above. You have to be God to talk like that, and Jesus is Himself God. A man may make promises and disappoint, but not God; He is the Big Boss! He owns everything, and He says “If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it ” (John 14:14).

You know, some people say, “ Well, God only grants our needs, not our wants.” But that’s not what the Bible teaches. Jesus said, “Ask anything.” In other words, “Ask what you will” (John 15:7). You shouldn’t ask for your needs anyway, because your heavenly Father already knows what you need (Matthew 6:8). Just as He takes care of the sparrows and the lilies of the valley without them having to ask Him, He takes care of your needs.

Jesus said in Matthew 6:28-32 CEV: “…Look how the wild flowers grow. They don ’t work hard to make their clothes. But I tell you that Solomon with all his wealth wasn ’t as well clothed as one of them. God gives such beauty to everything that grows in the fields, even though it is here today and thrown into a fire tomorrow. He will surely do even more for you…Don’t worry and ask yourselves, “ Will we have anything to eat? Will we have anything to drink? Will we have any clothes to wear ?” Only people who don’t know God are always worrying about such things. Your Father inheaven knows that you need all of these. ”

Wants are different from needs; they ’re the extras that make life more pleasurable. The psalmist had this in mind when he said, “The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want” (Psalms 23:1). Notice he didn’t say, “I shall not need,” because he knew his needs had been taken care of. Also, observe the words of the Apostle Paul in Philippians 4:19: “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. ” He didn’t say “I pray to God that all your needs will be supplied. ” So, don’t exert unnecessary energy in prayer, asking God for your needs. If you recognize any need, call it met, for it immediately falls into God ’s supply-system! Your needs are already met in Christ Jesus; yours is to take possession by faith, for all things are already yours (1 Corinthians 3:21).

Prayer
Dear heavenly Father, thank you for your great love demonstrated towards me in Christ Jesus. I rejoice greatly to know that you care for me and supply all my needs according to your riches in glory by Christ Jesus. I give thanks in Jesus ’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Philippians 4:19; John 16:23-24

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 12:49-59;Judges 10-11

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Mark 1:14-28:Leviticus 11

Apr 07 – The Giving That Stands You Out – Pastor Chris

And Joses, who by the apostles was surnamed Barnabas, (which is, being interpreted, The son of consolation,) a Levite, and of the country of Cyprus, Having land, sold it, and brought the money, and laid it at the apostles ’ feet (Acts 4:36-37).

It’s possible for a Christian who only gives his tithes and offerings to feel like an accomplished giver, but the Bible lets us know these aren ’t enough. Your tithes for example belongs to God, and He expects you to give them to Him anyway. The man who does otherwise is a robber: “Will a man rob God? Yet ye have robbed me. But ye say, wherein have we robbed thee? In tithes and offerings ” (Malachi 3:8).

God is not a man (Numbers 23:19); He’s God. So you MUST give Him your tithes and your offerings, as God. Actually, you pay your tithe; you don ’t give it, as you would your free-will offering. So your tithe is not a gift, because you don ’t pay a gift. Your offering on the other hand isn ’t just a donation made to the Church, but a sacrifice offered to a divine being. God actually demanded for it in Exodus 23:15: “…None shall appear before Me empty-handed ” (AMP).

So, beyond paying your tithes and giving your offerings, which are compulsory for every believer, you have to go the extra mile by getting financially involved in the spread of the Gospel. This type of giving is special because it isn ’t a compulsion, but is done out of your love and commitment to the Gospel. 2 Corinthians 9:7 (AMP) says, “Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, “prompt to do it”) giver [whose heart is in his giving].

This is the giving that stands you out. Remember it ’s in your interest and in your favour when you give to the Lord, for He has promised great returns and mighty harvest of blessings for the giver. So be sure to be counted among those who give financially towards the things of God. In our Ministry, we have several platforms through which we reach millions of souls around the world every day with the Gospel. Locate such opportunities and participate big-time. That ’s how to get relevant in the Kingdom and make your life count.

Prayer
Dear Father, thank you for the available opportunities I have to give towards the work of the Kingdom. I take advantage of these opportunities today, realizing that they ’ve been put in place for me to make my relevance and impact in world evangelism felt through my giving. Thank you Lord, for continuously increasing my capacity to give, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Luke 8:2-3

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING;
1 Year Bible reading plan;
Luke 11:14-36:Judges 3-4

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Matthew 27:55-66:Leviticus 7

Apr 06 – Tests And Trials Are For Your Promotion – Pastor Anita

For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory ( 2 Corinthians 4:17).

Have you ever wondered how come God didn ’t just take you out of here, into heaven, the moment you gave your life to Christ? Some Christians often wonder why God left us in a world that ’s so full of tests, trials and temptations. Well, the world may be filled with tests, trials and temptations, but Jesus assures us not to worry or be overwhelmed, for He has overcome the world for us. In John 16:33, He said “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.

” So, it doesn’t matter the trials or challenges that may come your way, be of good cheer! They are for your promotion. In 1 Peter 1:6-7, the Bible tells us that “ Wherein ye greatly rejoice, though now for a season, if need be, ye are in heaviness through manifold temptations: That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ. ” Also, James 1:3-4 says “Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience. But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. ”

So, just because you’re experiencing trying times doesn ’t mean you’re defeated. The truth is that those tests and trials are springboards for your promotion! Contrary to what many think, it ’s a blessing when you face trials and temptations, it ’s not a curse! It’s what you do with them that matters. That’s why you must grow your faith with the Word of God, so that no matter what happens, you ’ll always win.

Let’s take David for an example. When Goliath of Gath terrorized the children of Israel, it was David who stood up against the giant, killed him and brought the fear of Jehovah upon the Philistines (1 Samuel 17:20-58). David didn’t despair like the rest of the children of Israel; instead, he recognized that challenge of the giant as a means for his promotion.

As a child of God, the challenges you face are not supposed to discourage or destroy you; they are actually your stepping stones for promotion. No wonder James said “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations ” (James 1:2). It actually should be an exciting thing when a child of God faces challenging situations, for there ought to be only one sure outcome — victory!

Prayer
Thank you Father for your Word that lets us know that our light affliction works for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory! I know that every challenging situation I face is an opportunity for me to shine and manifest my victory in Christ Jesus. Therefore I rejoice, knowing that through your strength and power that works in me mightily, I live an overcoming life today in Jesus ’ Name.

Further Study;1 John 4:4; James 1:2-4

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan:
Luke 11:1-13:Judges 1-2

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Matthew 27:45-54;Leviticus 6

Apr 05 – Be Committed To The Gospel – Pastor Chris

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature ( Mark 16:15).

A gentleman once asked me if Christians who never won souls to Christ would go to heaven. His question was based on what the Lord said in Ezekiel 33:2-6: “…When I bring the sword upon a land, if the people of the land take a man of their coasts, and set him for their watchman: If when he seeth the sword come upon the land, he blow the trumpet, and warn the people; Then whosoever heareth the sound of the trumpet, and taketh not warning; if the sword come, and take him away, his blood shall be upon his own head …. But if the watchman see the sword come, and blow not the trumpet, and the people be not warned; if the sword come, and take any person from among them, he is taken away in his iniquity; but his blood will I require at the watchman ’s hand.”

To answer his question, I highlighted three major reasons why we must preach the Gospel and win souls. First is our faith in the Lord Jesus and His glorious gospel; second is our love for Him and hope of His soon return, and then third is His instruction for us to win souls. These three reasons should compel anyone who believes in Jesus Christ to win souls. If you don ’t win souls, then your love for the Master is questionable. Then also, your hope of heaven is also called to question, as well as your obedience to the Master ’s instruction. So if you’re not a soul winner, it means you really don’t believe, and heaven is a placefor believers.

God has determined that souls be won into His Kingdom every day, and He ’s given us the responsibility to locate the lost in our world and share the Gospel with them. As His representatives, we must reach the unreached and bring them to Christ; it’s our primary responsibility as Christians. We must tell the untold about the love of God manifested in Christ Jesus. The Apostle Paul, recognizing this, cried out: “…necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel !” (1 Corinthians 9:16).

Observe his choice of words! Let us therefore be truly committed to the Gospel and see to it ’s furtherance around the world.

Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for reconciling me unto yourself and for giving me the ministry of reconciliation. I boldly demonstrate my love for you today by committing myself to preaching the Gospel to everyone in my sphere of contact, in Jesus ’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
John 14:15; 2 Corinthians 5:18; Daniel 12:3

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan;
Luke 10:25-42:Joshua 23-24

2 Year Bible reading plan: Matthew 27:38-44:Leviticus 5

Apr 04 – The Rapture: The Believer’s Hope – Pastor Chris

And now, little children, abide in him; that, when he shall appear, we may have confidence, and not be ashamed before him at his coming ( 1 John 2:28).

The Bible declares that the Lord is coming again. It ’s important that we be ready to meet Him. 1Thessalonians 4:16-17 tells us that the dead in Christ shall rise first, and those of us who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them to meet the Lord in the air.

So the question is: Are you in Christ? If you are, then you ’re one of the many believers the Lord is coming to receive unto Himself. If however you ’re not, you have to give your heart to Christ right away by confessing Him as your Lord and Saviour. The Bible says, “ Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation ” (Hebrews 9:28).

After receiving Christ into your heart, you have to make sure to receive the Holy Spirit. In Matthew 25:1-13, the Lord Jesus likened the Kingdom of heaven to ten virgins who took their lamps and went forth to meet the bridegroom. Five of them were foolish and five were wise. The five foolish ones didn ’t have extra oil for their lamps. Then, at midnight, there was an announcement for the arrival of the bridegroom. While the foolish ones quickly went to get oil for their lamps, the Bible says, “…the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut ” (Matthew 25:10).

Now, oil, in this context, signifies the anointing or presence of the Holy Spirit. And according to Scriptures, Jesus is the Bridegroom, and the Church is His bride. This means therefore that without the Holy Spirit, a man cannot go in with the bridegroom —for the marriage of the Lamb. No wonder the Bible says in Revelations 19:7: “Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready. ” So, if you’re yet to receive the Holy Spirit, ask Him to come into your life today and He will bring the anointing into your spirit and make you ready for the appearing of the Master.

Prayer
I rejoice that I’m in Christ, and the Holy Spirit lives in me! Therefore I know that when Christ, who is my life, shall appear, I will also appear with Him in glory, in Jesus ’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
Colossians 3:4; 1 John 3:2

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:
1 Year Bible reading plan;
Luke 10:1-24:Joshua 20-22

2 Year Bible reading plan:
Matthew 27:26-37:Leviticus 4

Apr 03 – Stand Your Ground In Faith! – Pastor Anita

Have not I commanded thee? Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest (Joshua 1:9).

Irrespective of the challenges that may come your way, you must learn to stand your ground in faith, knowing that your faith is the victory that overcomes the world. Never allow what you hear or see with your physical eyes cause you to lose heart and start voicing fear; stand your ground and keep talking your way to victory.

Some Christians lose heart and allow fear take a hold of them upon hearing the lies and evil reports from the enemy. The enemy will always seek to put fear in your heart by constantly bombarding your mind with negative thoughts. But irrespective of the negative thoughts or pictures he brings to your mind, refuse to fear, and refuse to speak negatively. Do what Caleb and Joshua did; out of the twelve spies Moses sent to spy out Canaan, only the two of them stood their ground in faith. They said concerning the giants “they are bread for us: their defence is departed from them, and the Lord is with us: fear them not ” (Numbers 14:9). That’s the voice of faith, and faith is what gives you the victory.

In Mark 9:23 Jesus said, “If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. ” Never give up or give in. Keep the switch of faith turned on, for faith never fails! Our faith-filled words in the power of the Holy Spirit always prevail. When you find yourself in an uncomfortable position, don ’t fret; don’t fear; don’t despair! Speak words of faith. When things don ’t seem to be working out right, don ’t say, “Oh, God, why me?” Instead, refuse to be discouraged; stand your ground in faith and keep the victory shout on!

Confession

I ’m a victor in Christ Jesus. Fear, doubt and unbelief have no place in me, for my faith in God and in His eternal Word is the victory that overcomes the world! I refuse to be discouraged because greater is He that is in me, than he that is in the world!

Further Study:

2 Samuel 22:35; 2 Samuel 22:40

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:

1 Year Bible reading plan:

Luke 9:37-62:Joshua 16-19

2 Year Bible reading plan:

Matthew 27:11-25;Leviticus 3

Apr 02 – A Place Of Absolute Health – Pastor Chris

And the inhabitant shall not say, I am sick: the people that dwell therein shall be forgiven their iniquity ( Isaiah 33:24).

In the scripture above, the prophet Isaiah talks about the city of Zion and informs us that the inhabitants of that city shall not say, “I am sick.” He introduces us to a place of absolute health. In Hebrews 12:22, the Bible tells us that we have come into that city; it ’s called Zion —the city of the living God. That means those of us who are born again have been born into Zion and have become bona fide citizens of this glorious land of assurance and health.

There’s no sickness in Zion. The day you made Jesus Lord of your life, you came into the place called Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17); you came into Zion, the heavenly Jerusalem. In Colossians 1:13 it’s called the Kingdom of God’s dear Son: “Who hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son. ” So, as a child of God you live in this spiritual kingdom where divinity reigns; where divine health is your present-hour possession. There ’s no darkness there; that’s why it’s called the Kingdom of light!

How important it is for you to realize that the kingdom to which you belong is not the same as the kingdom of this world where sin, sickness, disease and infirmities hold men in bondage. You ’re not subject to the darkness and depraved systems and structures of this world; you belong in Zion! It ’s a land of glory, prosperity, beauty and honour,where sickness is foreign. Therefore you have both the right and responsibility to say “no” to sickness, and refuse to be sick.

Confession

I dwell in Zion; the Kingdom of light, and of God ’s dear Son where I reign and rule by the power of the Spirit! I thank you Father, for bringing me into such a beautiful place of glory, honour and prosperity.

Further Study:

Hebrews 12:22

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:

1 Year Bible reading plan: 

Luke 9:18-36:Joshua 13-15

2 Year Bible reading plan:  

Matthew 27:1-10:Leviticus 2

Apr 01 – Fulfill Your Purpose – Pastor Chris

But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light ( 1 Peter 2:9).

Throughout His earthly ministry, Jesus left no one in doubt as to His purpose on earth. He seized every opportunity to demonstrate the love of God to all people. He came that we may have life to the full (John 10:10). This was the purpose for which He lived, died and was raised back to life.

The life of Jesus while He walked this earth showed us a practical example of how to live as the light of God to our world today. His life was solely dedicated to fulfilling His God-given purpose and assignment. In John 4:34, He said to His disciples “My meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work ”; He thus underlined the work of God as His all-consuming passion. So, as Christians and ambassadors of Christ in this world (2 Corinthians 5:20), we have the responsibility and God-ordained purpose to illuminate our world —our sphere of contact—and manifest the glory of God. This is our calling.

Romans 8:19 says, “For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. ” Jesus said in Matthew 5:16 “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. ’’ It’s your responsibility to make your light shine; you ’re to make the personal decision and commitment to manifest the glory of God and be a blessingto your world.

It’s not enough to be passively preoccupied with the blessings and advantages that Christianity offers. You ’re to be passionate about God’s work and see to it that His Kingdom is established in your home, street, place of work, school and in your sphere of contact. You ’re to impact your world with the Gospel! You ’re to light up your world with the fire of God that ’s in you and manifest His glory to everyone around you.

Confession

I ’m the light of the world and I function today as a burning and a shining light! I ’m manifesting God’s glory to my world, making His Name known, and bringing men and women unto righteousness, in Jesus ’ Name.

Further Study:

Matthew 5:14; Philippians 2:14-15

DAILY SCRIPTURE READING:

1 Year Bible reading plan:

Luke 9:1-17;Joshua 10-12

2 Year Bible reading plan; Matthew 26:69-75:Leviticus 1