Rhapsody Of Realities: January 2013

Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Ask Boldly…In His Name!

Tuesday, January 22nd

Pastor Chris

And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us…(1 John 5:14).

This verse isn’t talking about whether or not your request is consistent with the Father’s will. Rather, it’s dealing with the Father’s will for making a request. This is about having a hearing before the Father. When you study the subject of John’s discourse in that entire chapter, you’d observe that it centres on our right standing with the Father. The emphasis of the verse above, therefore, should be "How do we ask according to His will?" It’s by asking the Father in the Name of Jesus!

In John 16:23, the Lord Jesus said, "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." Here, He introduced the disciples to a new revelation; a new way of asking, letting them know of the new day when they would ask the Father directly for whatever they desired, in the Name of Jesus.

In John 16:24, He said, "Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full" (John 16:24). Jesus wanted His disciples to understand that His Name connects them directly to the Father. He wanted them to know that He had bequeathed to them the power of attorney to use His Name.

Today, we’re living in the day Jesus spoke of. All you need to do for God to hear and answer your prayer is to ask boldly in the Name of Jesus. That’s asking according to His will, and this guarantees a hearing. Moreover, very beautifully, the Bible assures us in 1 John 5:15, that if we know that we are heard, we’re also sure that our requests are granted. Glory to God!

Isn’t it wonderful to know that you can boldly ask anything of the Father, in the Name of Jesus, and receive an answer? The Father is more willing to hear and answer you than you’re willing to ask. Therefore, be bold to ask what you will, in the Name of Jesus: "If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you" (John 15:7).

Prayer

Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for the revelation of your Word to me today. Now I know how to ask in order to have a hearing and it’s for this reason I’m confident that I have every request I make in the Name of Jesus. Amen

f u r t h e r s t u d y:
1 Peter 3:12; Matthew 21:22; Luke 11:9

Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 15:1-28, Exodus 1-2
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 8:23-34, Genesis 22

Monday, January 21, 2013

He Seeks Your Fellowship

Monday, January 21st

Pastor Anita

The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen (2 Corinthians 13:14).

This scripture was Paul’s prayer for the saints at Corinth. The Greek word translated "communion" above is "koinonia," which also means fellowship, participation, and partnership. Is it possible for a man to have a personal relationship with God, the Creator of heaven and earth? The answer is an emphatic "Yes!" He isn’t unapproachable as the religious folks try to make us believe. Actually, the Bible reveals that He longs for your fellowship.

God isn’t always looking out to punish you for your sins or wrong doings as some people think. When you’re acquainted with the Lord, you’ll realize He loves you even in spite of your wrongs. Remember, He was the One who went looking for Adam and his wife in the Garden of Eden, even though He knew they had disobeyed Him (Genesis 3:8-9). In his epistle to the churches, John said, "That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ" (1 John 1:3).

You may be wondering, "What’s so special about me that God seeks my fellowship?" It’s because you’re His very offspring; you have His life and nature: "And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. He that hath the Son hath life; and he that hath not the Son of God hath not life" (1 John 5:11-12).

The reason God can fellowship with you is that you have His life (Zoë) in you. The world doesn’t speak His language, but you do, for His Holy Spirit lives in you. This is the reason He delights in your worship and prayers. No wonder He said, "…before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear" (Isaiah 65:24). So you see, prayer is more than asking Him for things; it’s a fellowship. That’s what the Lord seeks; your fellowship with Him.

Prayer

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the great honour and privilege of fellowship with you, with Jesus and with the Holy Spirit. It’s the greatest calling there is and I ask that you teach me through the Holy Spirit to fulfill continually this call, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y:
1 Corinthians 1:9; 1 John 1:3

Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 14:13-36, Genesis 49-50
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 8:12-22 Genesis 21

Sunday, January 20, 2013

A New Life Altogether!

Sunday, January 20th

Pastor Chris

Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4).

The Apostle Paul, in the verse above, uses a special construction that stresses the fact that the new creation—the man who’s born again—has received "a newness of life." This doesn’t refer to one’s life being refreshed, reworked, reformed or renovated; it describes a new quality of life; a different kind of life—the God-life. It’s an expression that describes a supplanting of the old life (from your earthly parents), with the life in Christ; it’s a new life altogether!

When you were born again, your natural human life was not suspended; it was actually replaced with the life of God. No one can be said to be a Christian until there’s first been a supplanting of the old life with which he was born by his biological parents with the divine life of God. This is the reason we can live supernaturally in the earth (John 10:35), because being born of God, we have His life in us. This is authentic Christianity.

2 Corinthians 5:17 says, "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new." Being a new creation isn’t just referring to a new life in terms of timing, because it just started, it particularly means a new life in terms of quality and type! You’re a new type of man.

According to the Scriptures, when Jesus died, you died with Him, When He was buried, you were buried with Him; now that He’s resurrected, you’ve also arisen with Him into a newness of life. You’ve been called into a new life of success, glory and excellence. Walk in this consciousness today!

Prayer

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the astounding miracle of the new creation! This new life in me makes me an impregnable breed, not subject to sickness, defeat or failure. I’m an absolute success and victor in life. Therefore, I reign and exercise dominion over every circumstance of life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y:
2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 John 5:11-12

Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 13:44-14:1-12, Genesis 46-48
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 8:1-11 Genesis 20

Saturday, January 19, 2013

Legal And Vital Sons Of God!

Saturday, January 19th
Pastor Chris

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not (1 John 3:1).

Rather than use the Greek word "huios" for "sons," which refers to the sons of figurative kingship, the word "teknon" is used in 1 John 3:1 to express that we’re the vital sons of God; His sons and daughters in truth, because we’re actually born of Him. 1 John 3:2, tells us, "Beloved, now are we the sons of God"; not in the future, or when we get to heaven, but NOW. It’s a statement of fact; a present hour reality, that as Christians, we are the bona fide, legal, and vital sons of God.

Understand that the legal aspect of redemption was what made the vital experience of eternal life possible. 1 Corinthians 6:20 says, "For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s." This is the legal aspect of redemption; the fact that you were bought with a price.

Then, verse nineteen tells us, "What? Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?" This shows that God has brought us to live in His class of being, and has poured Himself into us, thereby making our physical bodies His tabernacle of witness; His living temple. This is the vital aspect.

Now, the vital aspect of our sonship is that you’re born of the Spirit of God; you’re born of the Word of God (1 Peter 1:23). As a result, you now have the life of God in you; you’re no longer ordinary; you have the supernatural life. Being born again, you’ve become the "tecknon" of God; the legal and vital son of God. As a result, the Bible says "…God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father" (Galatians 4:6). Take advantage of your privileged position as a child of God in truth.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for the legal aspect of redemption, which made the vital experience of eternal life possible. Now, I’m a participator in the divine experience; an associate of the God-kind. Therefore, the effect of this life is apparent in everything that I do, in Jesus’ Name, Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y:
1 John 5:4-5; Colossians 1:12

Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 13:24-43, Genesis 44-45
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 7:21-29 Genesis 19

Friday, January 18, 2013

Have The Consciousness Of A Victor

Friday, January 18th

Pastor Anita

I am crucified with Christ: nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave himself for me (Galatians 2:20).

Every Christian should have the Christ consciousness. It is the consciousness of a victor. You should know that regardless of circumstances, you’re more than a conqueror; no weapon fashioned against you prospers. This is our heritage.

Looking at the life of Jesus, we see a clear example of one who lived with this consciousness. He was a master over circumstances, and exercised dominion over all things. He had no sense of lack or need. Yet, the Bible lets us know that He functioned in the earth, not as the Son of God, but as the son of man. In other words, Jesus didn’t live with the supernatural life of angelic beings; rather, He lived as the seed of Abraham: "For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham" (Hebrews 2:16). He became like us; He lived as a man, letting us know that everything that He did was what a man could do.

The way Jesus lived, the things He did, the words He spoke—the miracles, signs and wonders that He performed—are all indications of what you and I can do today, by the same Spirit. Jesus was such a success. He had the mentality of the Word, for He was the Word made flesh. He knew divine truths that others never knew. He lived by the truth, for He was the truth.

Here’s one of such knowledge and consciousness that He had: in John 6:38 He said, "For I came down from heaven…." At this time, He was talking to people who knew when He was born, and where He was born. They knew His mother, Mary. They knew his brothers and sisters; yet, He said, "I came down from heaven." He was conscious of His divine nativity.

Let this same mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus (Philippians 2:5); have the consciousness of a victor. Think like Christ. Live with the consciousness that you’re in Christ, and Christ lives in you, therefore you’re indomitable. Have the consciousness that you hail from God, and have overcome the world, because greater is He that’s in you, than he that’s in the world. Have the consciousness that you’re a new creation in Christ Jesus, therefore you have a supernatural life in Christ. Halleluiah.

Prayer

Dear Father, I have Christ’s consciousness; therefore, the circumstances of life are subject to me because I have the dominion of Christ. I’m seated with Christ in heavenly places, far above all principalities, powers, might, and dominions, in Jesus' Name Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Romans 8:28; Mark 4:41
Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 13:1-23, Genesis 42-43
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 7:13-20 Genesis 18

Thursday, January 17, 2013

Living To Reign

Thursday, January 17th

Pastor Chris

For if by one man’s offence death reigned by one; much more they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ (Romans 5:17).

Righteousness is the nature of God; it is the rightness of God in the human spirit. It is the quality of conformity to truth or the revealed divine will. It is the ability in the human spirit to do right. Righteousness gives us the ability to stand in the presence of God without guilt, inferiority, or condemnation. How beautiful to know that we’ve been given righteousness as a gift from God. Read our opening verse again and meditate on it.

The Amplified Version renders the latter part of it beautifully, letting us know that having received the wonderful gift of righteousness, we’re to reign as kings in life: "…much more surely will those who receive [God’s] overflowing grace (unmerited favour) and the free gift of righteousness [putting them into right standing with Himself] reign as kings in life…." This is talking about reigning in the earth. We’re not going to reign in heaven because we won’t have subjects to reign over in heaven. The Apostle Paul is talking about a kingly life in the earth.

Revelations 5:10 says, "And hast made us unto our God kings and priests: and we shall reign on the earth." Also, Ecclesiastes 8:4 says, "Where the word of a king is, there is power…." You’re a king; your word has power. The Word in your mouth against adverse circumstances will surely prevail. When you command fear, sickness, disease or infirmity to go, they’ve got to comply. So, if you’re ever attacked by sickness or infirmity, refuse to fear; call it by name and command it to go, and it has to go.

When tests, trials, and tribulations come against you; when you’re confronted by the crises of life; don’t weaken out! Don’t chicken out! Give the Word and effect a change! Mark 11:23 says you shall have what you say. Be bold to declare words of faith. By virtue of your righteousness in Christ Jesus, you can confront Satan and the cohorts of hell in boldness without any fear. Glory to God!

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for the gift of righteousness that gives me the boldness to live joyfully every day, without guilt, inferiority or condemnation. Thank you for the ability in my spirit to do right and conform to the revealed divine will. I reign by grace in life, through righteousness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y:
Revelations 5:10; Ecclesiastes 8:4

Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 12:22-50, Genesis 40-41
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 7:1-12 Genesis 17

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

See With His Light

Wednesday, January 16th

Pastor Chris

But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin (1 John 1:7).

The Word of God is light (Psalm 119:105), and the Scripture tells us to walk in the light as God is in the light. We can walk in the light and have fellowship with Him because we’re born of the Word (1 Peter 1:23), which is light, and have therefore become children of light (1 Thessalonians 5:5). We’re now required to see with God’s light. Under that light, you don’t see poverty, sickness, disease, death, failure or impossibilities.

Seeing with His light means seeing by the Word; that means your judgments, opinions, and mindset are informed, influenced, and inspired by the truth of God’s Word. It means seeing yourself the way God sees you. For example, when you look at yourself under that light in 2 Corinthians 5:21, which says, "…he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him," all you need is to say "Yes sir!" You must remain in that light and keep saying, "I am the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus." The necessary result of that is, you will live and function as the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus. This same principle applies to your health. The doctors might have examined your body with x—rays, and diagnosed that there’s something wrong inside your body; don’t cry. Jesus is "the true light" which lights every man that comes into this world (John 1:9). Turn His light on yourself and you’d see that you’ve been perfected in Christ; rejoice in the reality and light of His Word.

God has given you His Word to light up your path, so that there wouldn’t be darkness or uncertainties as you journey through life. Agree with what the Word says about you, confess it, and act accordingly; that’s how to walk in His light.

Confession

Dear Father, your Word is a lamp unto my feet and a light unto my path. I walk in the reality of your Word today, and as I do, I’m guided in the path of prosperity, victory and excellence! No darkness or uncertainties in my path because I walk in the light of God’s Word.

f u r t h e r s t u d y:
1 John 1:5-7; John 2:8-10

Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 12:1-21, Genesis 38-39
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 6:25-34, Genesis 16

Keep The Switch Of Faith Turned On

Tuesday, January 15th

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).

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 diverse tests; that’s why the Bible says, "My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations" (James 1:2).

Make up your mind that throughout this year, irrespective of the challenges that may come your way, you’ll stand your ground in the Word. Grow your faith with the Word of God, so that no matter what happens, you’ll always win. Your faith is the victory that overcomes the world. Therefore, 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 victory.

Some Christians lose heart and allow fear take a hold of them when the evil day comes. However, irrespective of the negative thoughts or pictures the enemy may bring 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 and 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. The Lord Jesus said in Mark 9:23, "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! Your faith-filled words, in the power of the Holy Spirit, will always prevail. When you find yourself in an uncomfortable position, don’t fret; don’t fear; don’t despair! Speak words of faith.

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!

f u r t h e r s t u d y:
Colossians 2:6-7; Mark 11:23
Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 11:1-30, Genesis 36-37
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 6:14-24, Genesis 15

From Death To Life!

Monday, January 14th

Pastor Chris

Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life (John 5:24).

Our opening text from the New International Version reads: "I tell you the truth, whoever hears my word and believes him who sent me has eternal life and will not be condemned; he has crossed over from death to life." Great news! This means if you’re born again, you’re not hoping to have eternal life; you already have it. You’ve already passed from death to life.

You’re no longer in the arena of death, where sickness, disease, poverty, disadvantage, and failure hold sway; you’ve been translated into the Kingdom of God’s dear Son (Colossians 1:13). However, not all Christians live the same quality of life, though we all have the same life of Christ. Some still find themselves rattled by the circumstances of life, trying so hard to battle their way out of life’s troubles. Their problem is their ignorance. God said, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge…" (Hosea 4:6). The quality of life you live here on earth depends on the knowledge of God that you have.

The Apostle John recognized this when he said, "We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren…" (1 John 3:14). The word "know" in this verse is the Greek "Aido," which means to be aware. You have to come to the awareness that you’ve passed from death to life, therefore nothing in you should produce death! You’re not supposed to be sick, broke or crushed by the pressures and adversities of life.

The Spirit of God, speaking through the Apostle John, said in 1 John 5:13, "These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know (aido) that ye have eternal life…." Become aware of these realities! Take possession of the knowledge that eternal life is in you now, for real. That’s the unconquerable life, which, if you’d be conscious of its reality in you will cause you to ride above the ordinary plane of life, and make you victorious at every count.

Confession

I’ve been brought out of spiritual death into the arena of life, where I reign by grace through righteousness. I live in absolute victory because I’m born of God and greater is He that’s in me, than He that’s in the world.

f u r t h e r s t u d y:
John 5:24; Romans 8:2

Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 10:24-42, Genesis 34-35
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 6:1-13 Genesis 14

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

You’re What The Word Says!

Sunday, January 13th

Pastor Chris

Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord (Romans 6:11).

The word "reckon" as used above originates from the Greek word "logizomai" which is actually an accounting term. It means to take inventory or stock of something such that there’re no assumptions. In Accounting, you deal with specific figures and data, not assumptions.

When the Word urges you to "reckon yourself to be dead to sin, but alive unto God," it means you should "account yourself" to be ungoverned or undominated by sin. You must take whatever God says about you as absolute truth. His Word says you’re dead to sin, therefore refuse to let sin dominate you: "For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace" (Romans 6:14).

Romans 8:37 says you’re more than a conqueror, therefore reckon yourself as such and begin to live as a victor, and not a victim. This is how to relate with the Word; you reckon (account) it to be absolute reality.

However, for you to account yourself to be what the Word says, you must first know it. You must study the Word and keep getting it into your spirit; take it as the truth to live by, for it is. Reckon yourself to be exactly what the Word says.

Prayer

Dear Lord, I rejoice and commit myself to the power of your Word, to produce in me what it talks about. I declare that I am what God says I am, and I have all things that pertain unto life and godliness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y:
Romans 6:12-13; Romans 6:4

Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 10:1-23, Genesis 31-33
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 5:41-48 Genesis 13

The Word Has Inherent Ability

Saturday, January 12th

Pastor Anita

And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified (Acts 20:32).

The Word of God is the only material given to us by God to build our faith. Romans 10:17 says "So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." This means the more of God’s Word you receive into your spirit, meditate on, and put to work, the greater your faith will be. Without continuously inundating your heart with the Word of God, the challenges of life could overwhelm you, and you’ll faint in the day of adversity.

But with the Word of God in your spirit, you’ll discover that absolutely anything is possible unto you! That’s why a sick person, for example, while studying or listening to God’s Word on healing could automatically have faith stirred in his heart to be healed. The reason is that God’s Word imparts faith and courage to your spirit. As you listen and fill your heart with it, faith rises in you like a giant.

This is the reason God seeks to impart His Word to your Spirit. With the Word of God in your spirit, you don’t have to struggle or try to make it produce results for you; it has inherent ability to produce what it talks about. The Word of God in your heart and in your mouth is your sure recipe for a successful life on earth. So stick with the Word; and not only will it build you up, and give you an inheritance among them that are sanctified, it will make you what it talks about.

Confession

I rule, reign and dominate my world today by the faith of God in my spirit! My faith is alive and producing results because the Word of God is in my heart and in my mouth, and as I speak it forth, circumstances align with God’s perfect will for my life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Romans 10:17; Colossians 3:16

Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 9:18-38, Genesis 29-30
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 5:31-40 Genesis 12

The Mirror Principle

Friday, January 11th

Pastor Chris

But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth therein, he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed (James 1:25).

As Christians, we’re called to live and act like God. "How is that possible?" You might want to ask! This has been made possible through the mirror principle of the Word. The Word of God is the mirror of God. The Bible says anyone who hears the Word and doesn’t act accordingly is like a man who sees himself in a mirror, turns around and forgets what he looks like (James 1:23-24). In other words, God expects you to hear His Word and do what it says. The problem, however, is that many don’t know how to do the Word of God.

Now, the mirror principle of the Word is that you see yourself as what God sees you to be in His Word, and then act accordingly. It simply means acting the Word. For instance, in the Word, the mirror of God, He says, you’re a new creation in Christ Jesus. That is God’s image and reflection of you. See that image and endorse it. Act like it’s true; for it’s true. Again, He shows you in the Word that you’re the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus; see it so. That’s His image of you.

Seeing yourself in the Word, the mirror of God, and acting accordingly is the way to live in the reality of your inheritance in Christ. That’s how to enjoy all that God has made available to you in Christ Jesus. So keep looking into the mirror of God; keep studying and listening to the Word of God. As you do, you’ll be transfigured to become more and more like the glory you see in the Word. This is the mirror principle of the Word.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you because your Word is my life. It’s therefore natural for me to live in, and by the Word. Today, your Word is working mightily and producing results in me because I’m a doer of the Word, therefore, my profiting through the Word is manifest unto all, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: James 1:23-24

Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 8:28-9:1-17, Genesis 27-28
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 5:21-30 Genesis 11

Talk Spiritual

Thursday, January 10th

Pastor Chris

And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ (1 Corinthians 3:1).

John 11 tells the story of Lazarus, who fell sick and died. When Jesus heard, He said to His disciples, "…Our friend Lazarus sleepeth; but I go, that I may awake him out of sleep." His disciples, not understanding what He meant, replied, "Lord, if he is asleep, he will get better." Jesus had to tell them plainly, "…Lazarus is dead!" They didn’t understand Jesus’ spiritual language because they were yet carnal; so He had to speak to them in a language they could understand, that’s why He said to them, "Lazarus is dead."

The Apostle Paul had a similar experience with the Christians at Corinth; he wasn’t able to communicate with them in spiritual language, hence he chided them for being carnal: "And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ" (1 Corinthians 3:1). Have you ever found yourself in situations where you had difficulty expressing yourself to carnal people?

For example, being a spiritual man, if you felt a headache, you couldn’t say "I have a headache." The carnal man, on the other hand, sees nothing wrong communicating at such a mundane level. Realize that as Christians we don’t walk by our feelings, we walk by faith. If you say, "I have headaches," it means you’ve taken possession of it; you claimed it, and you shouldn’t because it’s an outside force; so don’t accommodate it in your body. Yes, you might feel the pain, but use the Word against it and it will pass out of your body.

Hebrews 13:5-6 says "…for he (God) hath said…that we may boldly say…." You’re only supposed to say what you have, that God gave to you. Don’t accept anything that’s from the devil. Make up your mind that throughout this year, you’ll stand your ground in faith and walk in divine health. Refuse sickness, poverty, death, or depravity. Talk spiritual. Speak according to God’s infallible Word, and not according to your senses.

Confession

I’m what God says I am. My life is the testimony of God’s grace and infinite blessings. I have the grace to excel in everything. I live in divine health, prosperity, abundant joy, and indescribable peace, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: James 3:2; 2 Corinthians 5:7
Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 8:1-27, Genesis 25-26
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 5:11-20 Genesis 10

The First And The Best!

Wednesday, January 9th

Pastor Anita

Even every one that is called by my name: for I have created him for my glory, I have formed him; yea, I have made him (Isaiah 43:7).

The reason many people still find themselves in regrettable circumstances is that they haven’t come to terms with their identity in Christ. You must realize that God made you, not so you’ll be defeated or fail in life. He created you for glory and for beauty—you’re His best. The Bible says "Of his own will begat he us with the word of truth, that we should be a kind of first-fruits of his creatures" (James 1:18). To be the first-fruits of His creatures means you’re the first and the best!

You’re the best of you that there is. You’re God’s peculiar treasure: "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). Take pleasure in your uniqueness; delight in your peculiarity, for no one else in the world can do the things you do. No one can take your place; you must bless the world with the investment of your personality.

You’re God’s reproduction; His excellent product (Ephesians 2:10); that means you can’t fail, for nothing God makes ever fails. You don’t have to struggle to be the best. In Matthew 4:19, Jesus met two fishermen (Peter and Andrew) and said to them, "...Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men." The exciting thing about those words of Jesus is the fact that He (Jesus) was the One "making" them, and not they "trying" to become. God has made you who you are—a bundle of success, an achiever, and a victor in Christ Jesus. No one can "unmake" what God has made.

God gave His son Jesus—His best—to die in your place; that shows you your true value. You only give the best to get the best. Wake up to the person God has ordained you to be, for He has made you for glory, and for beauty; you’re God’s best.

Confession

My life is for the glory of God. His beauty, excellence, and grace are manifested through me. I’m a success and a victor in life. I declare that my life is for praise, glory, and beauty, as I fulfil my destiny in God, bringing forth fruits unto righteousness. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Deuteronomy 14:2; Titus 2:14;1 Peter 2:9
Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 7:7-29, Genesis 23-24
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 5:1-10, Genesis 9

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

You’re Light In The Lord

Tuesday, January 8th

Pastor Chris

For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light (Ephesians 5:8).

>br />

The above verse is very unequivocal in its description of you. It says that, hitherto, not only were you in darkness, you were, infact, darkness personified. Now, you’re light in the Lord. Glory to God! You’re light because you’re born of God who is Light, and in Him is no darkness at all: "This then is the message which we have heard of him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all" (1 John 1:5). You’re just as He is; in you there’s no darkness at all.

In John 8:12, the Lord Jesus said, "...I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life." What a declaration! He knew exactly who He was and was bold to declare it. Then, in Matthew 5:14, He said, "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid." He called us the light of the world! We are light just as He is light. Now, just like Him, we have to make bold declarations about who we are. He has said, "You are the light of the world," so your response should be: "Yes! I’m the light of the world! Everywhere I go, I light up the world!"

Some may scoff or even get upset when you make such declarations, but don’t pay them any attention. They may even say, "We know you, and all the terrible things you did in the past"; it makes no difference. The Word declares that you’re no longer in darkness, but native-born to the Light. That’s all that counts: "Ye are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness" (1 Thessalonians 5:5).

Make this your consciousness throughout this month. Walk in the light of God’s Word; decide that your light will shine so brightly that others will see it and glorify your Father in heaven.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for qualifying me to be a partaker of the inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light. Darkness has no place in me, for I’m native-born to the light. I manifest this light to my world ever so brightly today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Colossians 1:12-13; Matthew 5:16
Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 6:19-7:1-6, Genesis 20-22
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 4:12-25, Genesis 8

Monday, January 7, 2013

The Image Of The Heavenly

Pastor Chris

As is the earthy, such are they also that are earthy: and as is the heavenly, such are they also that are heavenly (1Corinthians 15:48).

The Bible tells us in the book of Genesis how God formed Adam, the first man, from the dust of the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and Adam became a living soul. The Word described him as earthy because he was of the earth and possessed the natural human life: "The first man is of the earth, earthy…" (1Corinthians 15:47). We’re however introduced to a second and last Adam in 1 Corinthians 15:45: "And so it is written, The first man Adam was made a living soul; the last Adam was made a quickening spirit."

The first Adam was the man in the garden, but the second or last Adam is the Lord from heaven—the Lord Jesus Christ: "The first man is of the earth, earthy: the second man is the Lord from heaven" (1 Corinthians 15:47). Reading further into the forty ninth verse of 1 Corinthians 15 (AMP), the Apostle Paul says something very striking: "And just as we have borne the image [of the man] of dust, so shall we {and so} {let us} also bear the image [of the Man] of heaven."

Everyone on earth was born after the first Adam, meaning that we have all borne the image of the earthy. However, when a man is born again, he’s cut off from the first Adam and born after Christ. He becomes a heavenly man on earth, and he’s expected to walk in this newness of life, after the image of him that created him. Notice the Amplified rendering of 1 Corinthians 15:49, the latter part says, "…Let us also bear...," inferring therefore that it’s our responsibility to bear the image of the heavenly.

Accept what God has said about you in His Word. If He has said you’re a new creation, accept it and be bold to say the same about yourself and act accordingly. Simply say "yes" to God’s Word today.

Confession

I have the life and nature of Christ—the Second Adam—in my spirit. I’ve put on the image of the heavenly, and my affections are set on things above, being seated with Christ in the heavenly realms, far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name in this world, and in the world to come. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Colossians 3:10; 2 Corinthians 3:18

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 6:1-18, Genesis 18-19
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 4:1-11, Genesis 7

He Loves You Just The Way You Are

Pastor Chris

Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not (1 John 3:1).

God didn’t create you to be a failure but to be head over all things. He wants you to walk in the liberty and full assurance of His love, knowing that you’re beyond condemnation due to His infallible, unconditional and eternal love for you (Romans 8:1). He loves you just the way you are.

You didn’t have to struggle to earn God’s love, for you could never earn it by your own works but by grace; it’s a gift from God! All you have to do is accept His love as simply as it has come to you, and you’ll never remain the same again. God demonstrated His great and boundless love for us, while we were yet in sin. Perhaps you’re wondering, "Can God possibly love someone like me?" Emphatically yes! No matter what kind of life you may have lived, He loves you just the way you are; you can take advantage of His great love today.

The consciousness of God’s love will change you for the better and inspire you to love other people. His love gives you the ability to live in the liberty of His Word and enjoy His abundant life. God’s love will carry you over all the circumstances of life. Jesus said He doesn’t have to pray to the Father on your behalf, since the Father Himself loves you (John 16:26). Take advantage of His great love today.

Remember, Jesus didn’t come to save us because we were many; no! He did because of His love. You’re the object of His love. Be conscious of this truth today; God loves you more than you can possibly imagine.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, I thank you for your great love and kindness towards me! In everything I do today, and everywhere I go, I’m mindful of your love, and that consciousness inspires faith and boldness in me to face the circumstances of life and win! I rejoice in your loving kindness, which has strengthened my hope in you. Therefore are my days full of rest and peace, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: John 16:26-27; Romans 8:31-32

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 5:21-48, Genesis 15-17
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 3:10-17, Genesis 6

Be The Best For Him

Pastor Chris

I will praise thee; for I am fearfully and wonderfully made: marvellous are thy works; and that my soul knoweth right well (Psalms 139:14).

The verse above describes the peculiarity and uniqueness of every child of God. You’re the Father’s pride; a creation of wonder. God has deposited so much within your spirit that makes you a peculiar treasure of inestimable value.

In Genesis chapter 12:2 God said to Abraham, "And I will make of thee a great nation, and I will bless thee, and make thy name great; and thou shalt be a blessing." You’re the seed of Abraham now that you’re in Christ: "...if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed" (Galatians 3:29). By virtue of being Abraham’s seed, not only are you blessed, you’re also a blessing. You carry the blessing with you and have become a dispenser of blessings everywhere you go. No wonder 1 Peter 2:9 declares: "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."

Take some time today and meditate on who you are in Christ Jesus! You’re God’s perfectly crafted masterpiece, set forth to manifest His glory and display His praises to the world around you. Your responsibility now is to be the best of you for Him.

You’re the only one of you that God has. He’s never had another one like you, He doesn’t have another like you, and will never have another like you. That’s how unique you are. Therefore be a success for Him! Be the best of you for Him, and give Him your all.

Prayer

Dear Father, I ascribe all glory, honour and majesty to your great and wonderful Name! Thank you for making me a peculiar treasure, separated unto you to bring you glory! I release myself to you and declare that by the power of your Spirit, your purpose for my life is fulfilled, to the glory and praise of your Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: 1 Peter 2:9 AMP

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 5:1-20, Genesis 12-14
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 3:1-9, Genesis 5

Put The Name To Work

Pastor Chris

These things have I written unto you that believe on the name of the Son of God; that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God (1 John 5:13).

Notice the underlined construction. The Apostle John says, "…that ye may know that ye have eternal life, and that ye may believe on the name of the Son of God." He’s simply saying, "Put the Name of Jesus to work!"

The Name of Jesus is the Name that opens every door in every city and every nation. That’s the Name you need for a life of consistent victory, anywhere. For example, when Jesus gave the great commission in Mark 16:15 to "…Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature," it was in His Name. He gave us His Name, and that’s bigger than the whole world. Philippians 2:10 says "…at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth." This is the reason you can be comfortable in any place, any city, region or nation. You’re on a divine assignment, sent forth, not in your own name, but in that matchless Name of Jesus.

Luke’s report in Acts 3 about Peter and John is a detailed example of men who dared to use the Name of Jesus. Incidentally, this was their first miracle after Jesus’ ascension. When Peter met the crippled man at the gate of the temple called Beautiful, he said to him "…such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk" (Acts 3:6). The man couldn’t walk in his own name or in his father’s name. Niether was he able to walk in Herod’s, Pilate’s or Caesar’s name; but he did in the Name of Jesus! Acts 3:7-8 says Peter "…took him by the right hand, and lifted him up: and immediately his feet and ankle bones received strength. And he leaping up stood, and walked…."

The reason for the failure, defeat, sickness and weakness in the lives of many people is failure to trust and use the Name of Jesus in the crises of life. Psalm 20:7 AMP says "Some trust in and boast of chariots and some of horses, but we will trust in and boast of the name of the Lord our God." Put the Name of Jesus to work in every area of your life. The Word says to do all things in the Name of Jesus (Colossians 3:17).

Prayer Dear Father, I thank you for the power in the Name of Jesus, and the authority I have to use that Name against the devil, sickness, disease and everything that hurts or binds. By the power of that Name, I declare that I’m living the higher life of glory that you prearranged for me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Acts 3:16; John 16:23; Philippians 2:10

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 4, Genesis 9-11
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 2:13-23, Genesis 4

Safeguarded By The Anointing

Pastor Anita

Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time….But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things (1 John 2:18-20).

The Scripture reveals that in the last days there’ll be many antichrists; many who’ll come in their own names with false doctrines. A false doctrine isn’t necessarily the opposite of the Gospel; it’s a perversion of truth. It may sound very close to the Gospel, but it’s not the Gospel. Its aim is to deceive and lure people away from the true Gospel of our Lord Jesus.

As a child of God, however, you don’t have to fret over how many antichrists, false preachers, and false teachers there are out there. This is because your heart and mind are anointed to know the truth. By the anointing of the Holy Spirit that’s on your life, you’re able to tell right from wrong, and to discern the right teaching of the Gospel from false doctrines.

1 John 2:27 tells us, "But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him." The Holy Spirit is the Lord of the Church, and when you hear the Word of God, under the anointing of the Holy Spirit, the same Spirit in you will bear witness with your spirit that what you’re hearing is the truth. That’s why you can’t be deceived or swayed from the truth that you’ve come to believe, because there’s a special ability from the Holy Spirit that makes you know the truth.

If you’d yield to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, you won’t find yourself being deceived by the evil one, neither will you make the wrong choices, decisions and investments in life. That anointing is activated by the recognition and acknowledgment of His Word in your life.

Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for the anointing of the Holy Spirit in my life. That anointing teaches me all things and reveals the realities of the kingdom to my spirit. I declare that I can do all things by your ability at work in me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Philemon 1:6

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 3 Genesis 6-8
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 2:1-12 Genesis 3

Wednesday, January 2, 2013

The Compassion Of Jesus

Wednesday, January 2nd

Pastor Chris

And Jesus, when he came out, saw much people, and was moved with compassion toward them, because they were as sheep not having a shepherd: and he began to teach them many things (Mark 6:34).

Compassion is a great feeling of favourable emotion towards others, often backed with the desire and willingness to help. As Christians, God has given us His nature. We have His nature of compassion, love, forgiveness, and mercy. All of these work together. The Lord Jesus was the perfect example of a compassionate person. He was so considerate, loving and kind to everyone He met.

On a certain occasion, the Bible tells us that the Lord Jesus was moved with compassion towards the multitudes and told His disciples that they should pray to the Lord of the harvest to send in labourers to the field (Matthew 9:36-38). You’re part of these labourers. You’ll however not be an effective labourer unless you have the compassion of Jesus. If you’re full of compassion, you’ll be spurred to action irrespective of daunting circumstances; you’ll be quick to help and bless others. You need compassion to overlook criticisms and the wrongs done to you by others.

On yet another occasion, a leper came to Jesus, and the Master didn’t turn him away. Instead, the Lord was moved with compassion, and stretching forth His hand, He touched the leper and said "…be thou clean" (Mark 1:41). Immediately, the leprosy departed and the man was made whole (Mark 1:42); the power of compassion!

Compassion drove Him and He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed of the devil (Acts 10:38). Let that same compassion propel you to reach out with the Gospel and save those wallowing in darkness, delivering them from the power of Satan unto the power of God. The more you preach the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ, the more His compassion, love and power will be manifested in your life. Miracles will accompany you, because you have become God’s outstretched arm of help to others.

Prayer

Dear Father, I bless your holy Name and thank you for filling my heart with your love and kindness. Thank you for your Spirit that lives within me, helping me to be sensitive to the needs of others, and to touch them with your love, mercy and compassion, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: John 3:16; Matthew 14:14
Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 2, Genesis 3-5
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 1:15-28 Genesis 2

Tuesday, January 1, 2013

Be Faithful

Tuesday, January 1st

Pastor Chris

To the saints and faithful brethren in Christ which are at Colosse: Grace be unto you, and peace, from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ (Colossians 1:2).

God looks for faithful men and women to carry out His purpose and work here on earth. The Bible gives us Daniel as one who was faithful to God in a most remarkable and inspiring way. Daniel 6:4 says, "Then the presidents and princes sought to find occasion against Daniel concerning the kingdom; but they could find none occasion nor fault; forasmuch as he was faithful, neither was there any error or fault found in him."

Daniel was impeccably faithful and devoted to the Lord; the Scripture says there was neither any error nor fault found in him. He was neither corrupt nor negligent. He was faithful in all his dealings. He served God with purpose and uprightness, in truth and with unmistakable commitment. His faithfulness was with direction—very definitive. He was clear about who he was faithful to, and what his faithfulness was about. He remained faithful to God even when he was persecuted by his government in things pertaining to God. This is one of the principles of a faithful man.

As believers, our primary allegiance, dedication, commitment and loyalty is first to God and His Word before anything else. Persecution may come at you from all angles, but you must remain steadfast and undaunted in your service and allegiance to the Lord. You must object to doing anything that isn’t consistent with the Word of God. Yes, Daniel was thrown into the lion’s den because he chose to be faithful to God, but God shut the mouths of the lions.

1 Corinthians 4:2 says "Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful." Faithful people are those chosen for important responsibilities, therefore, learn, and choose to be a faithful steward. In your service in God’s house, in using the gifts and abilities God has given you, in the financial and material blessings you receive from God, and in evangelizing your world, choose to be faithful!

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for dispensing abundant grace and blessings into my life, and I declare my absolute trust and allegiance to you, as I faithfully serve you with my life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: 2 Corinthians 8:1- 5 (NIV); Nehemiah 7:1- 2
Daily Scripture Reading
1 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 1, Genesis 1-2
2 Year Reading Plan : Matthew 1:1-14 Genesis 1