Memorise: I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting. - 1 Timothy 2:8
Read: Exodus 17:8-13 (KJV)
8 Then came Amalek, and fought with Israel in Rephidim.
9 And Moses said unto Joshua, Choose us out men, and go out, fight with Amalek: to morrow I will stand on the top of the hill with the rod of God in mine hand.
10 So Joshua did as Moses had said to him, and fought with Amalek: and Moses, Aaron, and Hur went up to the top of the hill.
11 And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed.
12 But Moses' hands were heavy; and they took a stone, and put it under him, and he sat thereon; and Aaron and Hur stayed up his hands, the one on the one side, and the other on the other side; and his hands were steady until the going down of the sun.
13 And Joshua discomfited Amalek and his people with the edge of the sword.
Bible in One Year: Proverbs 11:16-14:25; 2 Peter 1
MESSAGE:
Several people at one point or the other have drawn God's attention to themselves by lifting up their hands to Heaven. This is a symbolic way of saying, "Lord I trust you totally with my life." You are telling God that unless He helps you, there is nothing you can do about your situation. One person who did this several times was Moses. At the Red Sea, God commanded him to lift his hands, and you know the end of the story. There is something highly significant about the hands of Moses; they were very special. Even in the battle between the children of Israel and the Amalekites, the war was won simply by Moses raising his hands up to heaven. Anytime you lift up your hands to God, you are showing your reliance and total dependence on Him. There are people struggling through life. They wake up very early and return home very late, and yet there is nothing significant to show for all their efforts. It requires more than human effort to succeed in life. You need the divine support of the Almighty God. Never trust in your position, because position is never permanent. Never trust in your intellect, because no matter how much you know, your intellect is too small to comprehend the ways of God. Never trust in your money, because money can develop wings and fly away. Put your total and absolute trust in God.
The more you look up to God, the more victories He will deliver into your hands on a platter. If anyone who is of God raises his hands to bless you, you can rest assured that you are blessed. You need to also pray to God that through your hands, there will be manifestation of signs and wonders. Apostle Paul did so many exploits with his hands. Your hands are very significant to the fulfilment of your destiny. This is why you cannot afford to toy with sin. You must be willing to engage your hands in doing things that are pleasing to God. When you serve a man of God with your hands, you are automatically transferring grace to yourself. Don't allow your hands to be lazy. Engage your hands in soul-winning and setting the captives free. Anytime you need empowerment from God, go to His presence as an empty vessel that is waiting to be filled and empowered. Lift up your hands to him so that He will know you have come to exchange your weakness for His strength. Never go before the Almighty God with the notion that you have it all. Expose all your frailties, weaknesses and failings to Him and you can be sure that before you leave His presence, you would have been filled, and whatever you lay your hands upon will begin to prosper. May that be your portion in Jesus' Name.
Prayer Point: Father, as I present my hands to You, let every dead thing my hands touch begin to receive life.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Monday, 21 December 2015
Saturday, 19 December 2015
Open Heavens 19 December 2015: Saturday daily devotion by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Mission Accomplished
Memorise: So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David. - 1 Samuel 17:50
Read: 1 Samuel 17:45-50 (KJV)
45 Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied.
46 This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.
47 And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the LORD'S, and he will give you into our hands.
48 And it came to pass, when the Philistine arose, and came and drew nigh to meet David, that David hasted, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine.
49 And David put his hand in his bag, and took thence a stone, and slang it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead, that the stone sunk into his forehead; and he fell upon his face to the earth.
50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David.
Bible in One Year: Proverbs 4-7; 1 Peter 3:8-4:11
MESSAGE:
A mission is a special assignment commissioned by a higher authority. Generally speaking, missions are known to involve some level of difficulty and challenges. Therefore, they are generally identified with uncertainty, opposition, criticism, anxiety, risk and fear. This fact is evident in all those who were commissioned for one assignment or the other in the Bible. Noah as a man on a mission experienced all these. Nobody believed him until the word of the Lord came to pass (Luke 17:27). Abraham's experience was the same. At a point, he risked losing his beautiful wife because of the fear of the unknown(Genesis 20:2-3). The assignment of Moses was especially marked with difficulties that made him experience negative conditions on a much higher level. Other important figures in the Bible like Joseph, Joshua, Daniel, Nehemiah, and David were not left out; they all had terrible encounters on their mission to fulfil their assignments, but by the grace of God, they all accomplished their missions successfully. I therefore decree over your life: no matter how difficult your assignment is, and no matter what you are passing through on the assignment, your mission will be accomplished successfully in Jesus' Name.
A person on a mission is usually misunderstood, especially when he or she is being controlled by the Holy Spirit. This is usually because the fellow receives divine instructions which are guaranteed to bring success, but are usually at variance with human understanding. David, as a man on a divine mission, accomplished his mission in grand style by taking some specific steps. He did not allow opposition and criticism to discourage him, but remained focus on his assignment. David identified with the Almighty God and relied on the power in the word of God as the ultimate weapon of war. He trusted completely in God for victory to the point of boasting about it. He was ill-equipped for battle because he had no sword, yet he confidently approached his assignment with boldness, and God crowned his efforts with resounding victory. Do you have a mission, vision, or idea that has become a passion in you? Are you in anyway handicapped because of lack of money, human connection, or assistance? Are you in a disadvantaged position because of your family background or upbringing? My friend, do not fret over your situation. Put your trust in God, and your mission will be accomplished in due time in Jesus' Name.
Prayer Point: Father, accelerate the accomplishment of my goals in life by the wisdom of Your Spirit.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God,.
Read: 1 Samuel 17:45-50 (KJV)
45 Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied.
46 This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.
47 And all this assembly shall know that the LORD saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the LORD'S, and he will give you into our hands.
48 And it came to pass, when the Philistine arose, and came and drew nigh to meet David, that David hasted, and ran toward the army to meet the Philistine.
49 And David put his hand in his bag, and took thence a stone, and slang it, and smote the Philistine in his forehead, that the stone sunk into his forehead; and he fell upon his face to the earth.
50 So David prevailed over the Philistine with a sling and with a stone, and smote the Philistine, and slew him; but there was no sword in the hand of David.
Bible in One Year: Proverbs 4-7; 1 Peter 3:8-4:11
MESSAGE:
A mission is a special assignment commissioned by a higher authority. Generally speaking, missions are known to involve some level of difficulty and challenges. Therefore, they are generally identified with uncertainty, opposition, criticism, anxiety, risk and fear. This fact is evident in all those who were commissioned for one assignment or the other in the Bible. Noah as a man on a mission experienced all these. Nobody believed him until the word of the Lord came to pass (Luke 17:27). Abraham's experience was the same. At a point, he risked losing his beautiful wife because of the fear of the unknown(Genesis 20:2-3). The assignment of Moses was especially marked with difficulties that made him experience negative conditions on a much higher level. Other important figures in the Bible like Joseph, Joshua, Daniel, Nehemiah, and David were not left out; they all had terrible encounters on their mission to fulfil their assignments, but by the grace of God, they all accomplished their missions successfully. I therefore decree over your life: no matter how difficult your assignment is, and no matter what you are passing through on the assignment, your mission will be accomplished successfully in Jesus' Name.
A person on a mission is usually misunderstood, especially when he or she is being controlled by the Holy Spirit. This is usually because the fellow receives divine instructions which are guaranteed to bring success, but are usually at variance with human understanding. David, as a man on a divine mission, accomplished his mission in grand style by taking some specific steps. He did not allow opposition and criticism to discourage him, but remained focus on his assignment. David identified with the Almighty God and relied on the power in the word of God as the ultimate weapon of war. He trusted completely in God for victory to the point of boasting about it. He was ill-equipped for battle because he had no sword, yet he confidently approached his assignment with boldness, and God crowned his efforts with resounding victory. Do you have a mission, vision, or idea that has become a passion in you? Are you in anyway handicapped because of lack of money, human connection, or assistance? Are you in a disadvantaged position because of your family background or upbringing? My friend, do not fret over your situation. Put your trust in God, and your mission will be accomplished in due time in Jesus' Name.
Prayer Point: Father, accelerate the accomplishment of my goals in life by the wisdom of Your Spirit.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God,.
Friday, 18 December 2015
Open Heavens 18 December 2015: Friday daily devotion by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Mission Discovered
Memorise: And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause? - 1 Samuel 17:29
Read: 1 Samuel 17:28-30 (KJV)
28 And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and Eliab's anger was kindled against David, and he said, Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle.
29 And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause?
30 And he turned from him toward another, and spake after the same manner: and the people answered him again after the former manner.
Bible in One Year: Proverbs 1-3; 1 Peter 2:13-3:7
MESSAGE:
In today's Bible reading, we see what seems to be a subtle undertone in Eliab's unprovoked anger against David. Let's take a closer look at what was actually going on. David happened on the battle scene by accident, because he was only there on an errand to deliver his father's message to his brothers and the captain of their unit. It is therefore interesting that David was able to identify his mission in the midst of an affair which appeared to be none of his business. He found his purpose in a remote and indirect call to duty. This is a very good example of how the purpose of God becomes manifest in a person's life. Despite the fact that Eliab railed accusations of pride and naughtiness of heart against David, he did not deny them or defend himself; he only asked this rhetorical question: "Is there not a cause?" A cause is a very important element of purpose, which usually develops into a passion for an objective, making it worth dying for. David so quickly reached the conclusion that confronting Goliath was a cause he was prepared to die for (1 Samuel 17:32).
Looking at the sequence of events in this story, I have a feeling that David was acting under the influence of a power that was far beyond his control. I sincerely believe that he was very conscious of this fact, and he yielded himself to the control of the awesome power of God. The power that moved David to overcome Goliath is the same power that moved Samson to tear up a lion with his bare hand. I pray that you will receive that power now in the Name of Jesus. David did not only discover his assignment, he also quickly identified with the One who predetermined the whole process. Let's consider a few of the steps taken by David. First of all, He ignored and discarded all forms of discouragement that came his way through his brother, Eliab, and through King Saul (1 Samuel 17:28 & 33). In addition, he testified and boasted in the Lord of all the wonderful things God had accomplished in his life (1 Samuel 17:34-37). Furthermore, being sure of God's support, he refused to rely on human technology (1 Samuel 17:39). Beyond all this, he went ahead to identify with God by presenting himself as an emissary of the Lord of hosts. 1 Samuel 17:45 says:
"Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied."
Are you pursuing a cause? Are you a man or a woman with a purpose? If you are ready to identify with the Lord of hosts and employ the same strategy David used, success will be yours.
Prayer Point: Father, I don't want to wander through life without a mission; guide me to the cause in life which You have created and equipped me for, in Jesus' Name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Read: 1 Samuel 17:28-30 (KJV)
28 And Eliab his eldest brother heard when he spake unto the men; and Eliab's anger was kindled against David, and he said, Why camest thou down hither? and with whom hast thou left those few sheep in the wilderness? I know thy pride, and the naughtiness of thine heart; for thou art come down that thou mightest see the battle.
29 And David said, What have I now done? Is there not a cause?
30 And he turned from him toward another, and spake after the same manner: and the people answered him again after the former manner.
Bible in One Year: Proverbs 1-3; 1 Peter 2:13-3:7
MESSAGE:
In today's Bible reading, we see what seems to be a subtle undertone in Eliab's unprovoked anger against David. Let's take a closer look at what was actually going on. David happened on the battle scene by accident, because he was only there on an errand to deliver his father's message to his brothers and the captain of their unit. It is therefore interesting that David was able to identify his mission in the midst of an affair which appeared to be none of his business. He found his purpose in a remote and indirect call to duty. This is a very good example of how the purpose of God becomes manifest in a person's life. Despite the fact that Eliab railed accusations of pride and naughtiness of heart against David, he did not deny them or defend himself; he only asked this rhetorical question: "Is there not a cause?" A cause is a very important element of purpose, which usually develops into a passion for an objective, making it worth dying for. David so quickly reached the conclusion that confronting Goliath was a cause he was prepared to die for (1 Samuel 17:32).
Looking at the sequence of events in this story, I have a feeling that David was acting under the influence of a power that was far beyond his control. I sincerely believe that he was very conscious of this fact, and he yielded himself to the control of the awesome power of God. The power that moved David to overcome Goliath is the same power that moved Samson to tear up a lion with his bare hand. I pray that you will receive that power now in the Name of Jesus. David did not only discover his assignment, he also quickly identified with the One who predetermined the whole process. Let's consider a few of the steps taken by David. First of all, He ignored and discarded all forms of discouragement that came his way through his brother, Eliab, and through King Saul (1 Samuel 17:28 & 33). In addition, he testified and boasted in the Lord of all the wonderful things God had accomplished in his life (1 Samuel 17:34-37). Furthermore, being sure of God's support, he refused to rely on human technology (1 Samuel 17:39). Beyond all this, he went ahead to identify with God by presenting himself as an emissary of the Lord of hosts. 1 Samuel 17:45 says:
"Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied."
Are you pursuing a cause? Are you a man or a woman with a purpose? If you are ready to identify with the Lord of hosts and employ the same strategy David used, success will be yours.
Prayer Point: Father, I don't want to wander through life without a mission; guide me to the cause in life which You have created and equipped me for, in Jesus' Name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Thursday, 17 December 2015
Open Heavens 17 December 2015: Thursday daily devotion by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Persistence Brings The Answer
Memorise: Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? - Matthew 7:9
Read: Luke 18:1-8 (KJV)
1 And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;
2 Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man:
3 And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.
4 And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man;
5 Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.
6 And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith.
7 And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them?
8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?
Bible in One Year: Psalm 144-150; 1 Peter 1:13-2:12
MESSAGE:
There are many inventors in life whose names are never heard about because they gave up on the verge of their discoveries. Life is about persistence, and one man who was very persistent in his pursuit of greatness was Elisha (2 Kings 2). Elisha kept following Elijah ardently and many people thought he was wasting his time. Elijah moved from Bethel to Jordan and from there to Jericho, yet, Elisha would not let go. He was desperate for greatness, and his persistence in the pursuit of greatness paid off. You need to understand that you have a great role to play if you will ever get answers to your prayers. Also, understand that sometimes, there is a place of waiting before a prayer is answered. Some problems have a required number of hits they must receive before they become levelled. Naaman had to dip in the water seven times before He could get his cleansing. Thank God he did not stop at the sixth dip when he discovered there was still no change. It takes persistence to get the miracles you desire from God.
From the account of the woman in today’s Bible reading, it is apparent that she continued to persuade the judge to assist her. There might have been many things the judge said which were sufficient to discourage her from returning to him, but she did not succumb. She persisted in her visits and cries for justice until she got the attention of the judge on her case. There is no problem in life without an expiry date. The faint in spirit cannot get anything significant from life. They give up at the point when they are so close to their blessing. God is a God of plan and purpose. He does everything according to His timetable. Some people conclude that their miracle is taking too long to come; they become impatient and begin to look for alternatives that will not give them the kind of joy they desire. Do not be like such people. You need to keep your hope alive. You need to push until you get what you want out of life. There are people who are so passive in life. They think life will automatically give them what they deserve just by speaking in tongues. No, it doesn’t work that way! You have to involve your body, soul and spirit in the pursuit of your dreams. That woman in our Bible reading continued to press the unjust judge. Everywhere this judge went, he saw the woman there, pleading passionately that her case be looked into. Her appearance began to constitute a problem for him; so much so that he decided to grant her petition. In the Name of Jesus, you will get that which will glorify the Name of the Lord. Let your anchor of hope remain intact in Jesus Christ. Never allow the winds of adversity, doubt and fear deny you of your divine inheritance.
Prayer Point: Father, help me not to give up before my day of visitation.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Read: Luke 18:1-8 (KJV)
1 And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;
2 Saying, There was in a city a judge, which feared not God, neither regarded man:
3 And there was a widow in that city; and she came unto him, saying, Avenge me of mine adversary.
4 And he would not for a while: but afterward he said within himself, Though I fear not God, nor regard man;
5 Yet because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her, lest by her continual coming she weary me.
6 And the Lord said, Hear what the unjust judge saith.
7 And shall not God avenge his own elect, which cry day and night unto him, though he bear long with them?
8 I tell you that he will avenge them speedily. Nevertheless when the Son of man cometh, shall he find faith on the earth?
Bible in One Year: Psalm 144-150; 1 Peter 1:13-2:12
MESSAGE:
There are many inventors in life whose names are never heard about because they gave up on the verge of their discoveries. Life is about persistence, and one man who was very persistent in his pursuit of greatness was Elisha (2 Kings 2). Elisha kept following Elijah ardently and many people thought he was wasting his time. Elijah moved from Bethel to Jordan and from there to Jericho, yet, Elisha would not let go. He was desperate for greatness, and his persistence in the pursuit of greatness paid off. You need to understand that you have a great role to play if you will ever get answers to your prayers. Also, understand that sometimes, there is a place of waiting before a prayer is answered. Some problems have a required number of hits they must receive before they become levelled. Naaman had to dip in the water seven times before He could get his cleansing. Thank God he did not stop at the sixth dip when he discovered there was still no change. It takes persistence to get the miracles you desire from God.
From the account of the woman in today’s Bible reading, it is apparent that she continued to persuade the judge to assist her. There might have been many things the judge said which were sufficient to discourage her from returning to him, but she did not succumb. She persisted in her visits and cries for justice until she got the attention of the judge on her case. There is no problem in life without an expiry date. The faint in spirit cannot get anything significant from life. They give up at the point when they are so close to their blessing. God is a God of plan and purpose. He does everything according to His timetable. Some people conclude that their miracle is taking too long to come; they become impatient and begin to look for alternatives that will not give them the kind of joy they desire. Do not be like such people. You need to keep your hope alive. You need to push until you get what you want out of life. There are people who are so passive in life. They think life will automatically give them what they deserve just by speaking in tongues. No, it doesn’t work that way! You have to involve your body, soul and spirit in the pursuit of your dreams. That woman in our Bible reading continued to press the unjust judge. Everywhere this judge went, he saw the woman there, pleading passionately that her case be looked into. Her appearance began to constitute a problem for him; so much so that he decided to grant her petition. In the Name of Jesus, you will get that which will glorify the Name of the Lord. Let your anchor of hope remain intact in Jesus Christ. Never allow the winds of adversity, doubt and fear deny you of your divine inheritance.
Prayer Point: Father, help me not to give up before my day of visitation.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Wednesday, 16 December 2015
Open Heavens 16 December 2015: Wednesday daily devotion by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – All For Good
Memorise: And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose. - Romans 8:28.
Read: Ephesians 1:3-6 (KJV)
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,
6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.
Bible in One Year: Psalm 137-143; 1 Peter 1:1-12
MESSAGE:
The words of today's Bible reading should bring joy to the heart of every believer in Christ. They reveal that everything about God's plan for your life has been settled long before the foundation of the world was laid. If this is true, it means that the things you have experienced in the past, all you are currently going through and everything you will experience in the future are no accidents; rather, they are designed to help you fulfil God's purpose for your life. No wonder Romans 8:28 says:
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."
If God has called you to fulfil His plan for your life, everything He allows to come your way, both good and bad, will work in your favour, even though on the surface, they may not appear to be working in your interest. In fact, some situations might appear so contrary and terrible, but in God's overall plan for your life, they are adding up to something great for you.
Let's look at the example of Joseph. He was born quite late by his beloved mother, and so he became his father's favourite son. His father made him a coat of many colours, which was a prophetic connotation of where God was taking him. God gave him a dream for his life, and his envious brothers hated him for it. Joseph's dream was not just a desire or a goal he set for himself; it was God's plan for his life. Do you know that some people can be envious of you because of God's plan for your life? If every believer knew what God had planned for each of them, and accepted His plan, there would be no room for envy. Furthermore, notice that even though God had a great plan for Joseph's life, he still experienced great troubles. His troubles even started right from home. Nevertheless, if you take a look at his life, you will see how all the experiences of his life helped to take him to God's destination. If his brothers were not envious of him, they would not have sold him into slavery. If he was not sold into slavery, he would never have become Potiphar's servant. If he was not Potiphar's servant, he would never have met Potiphar's wife. If he had not met Potiphar's wife, she would never have lied against him. If she had not lied against him, he would not have gone to prison. If he did not go to prison, he would not have met Pharaoh's imprisoned servants, and if this had not happened, nobody would have recommended him to Pharaoh. Beloved, like Joseph, everything is working out for your good! Go ahead and thank God for this.
Prayer Point: Father, grant me grace to recognise the presence or absence of Your hand in any situation I'm confronted with, in Jesus' Name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Read: Ephesians 1:3-6 (KJV)
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:
4 According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love:
5 Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will,
6 To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved.
Bible in One Year: Psalm 137-143; 1 Peter 1:1-12
MESSAGE:
The words of today's Bible reading should bring joy to the heart of every believer in Christ. They reveal that everything about God's plan for your life has been settled long before the foundation of the world was laid. If this is true, it means that the things you have experienced in the past, all you are currently going through and everything you will experience in the future are no accidents; rather, they are designed to help you fulfil God's purpose for your life. No wonder Romans 8:28 says:
"And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose."
If God has called you to fulfil His plan for your life, everything He allows to come your way, both good and bad, will work in your favour, even though on the surface, they may not appear to be working in your interest. In fact, some situations might appear so contrary and terrible, but in God's overall plan for your life, they are adding up to something great for you.
Let's look at the example of Joseph. He was born quite late by his beloved mother, and so he became his father's favourite son. His father made him a coat of many colours, which was a prophetic connotation of where God was taking him. God gave him a dream for his life, and his envious brothers hated him for it. Joseph's dream was not just a desire or a goal he set for himself; it was God's plan for his life. Do you know that some people can be envious of you because of God's plan for your life? If every believer knew what God had planned for each of them, and accepted His plan, there would be no room for envy. Furthermore, notice that even though God had a great plan for Joseph's life, he still experienced great troubles. His troubles even started right from home. Nevertheless, if you take a look at his life, you will see how all the experiences of his life helped to take him to God's destination. If his brothers were not envious of him, they would not have sold him into slavery. If he was not sold into slavery, he would never have become Potiphar's servant. If he was not Potiphar's servant, he would never have met Potiphar's wife. If he had not met Potiphar's wife, she would never have lied against him. If she had not lied against him, he would not have gone to prison. If he did not go to prison, he would not have met Pharaoh's imprisoned servants, and if this had not happened, nobody would have recommended him to Pharaoh. Beloved, like Joseph, everything is working out for your good! Go ahead and thank God for this.
Prayer Point: Father, grant me grace to recognise the presence or absence of Your hand in any situation I'm confronted with, in Jesus' Name.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Tuesday, 15 December 2015
Open Heavens 15 December 2015: Tuesday daily devotion by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Comprehensive Insurance
Memorise: Thou shalt come to thy grave in a full age, like as a shock of corn cometh in in his season. – Job 5:26
Read: Psalm 91:10-16 (KJV)
10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.
11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.
12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.
13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.
14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.
15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.
16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.
Bible in One Year: Psalm 127-136; James 5
MESSAGE:
All-round security is of utmost importance to human beings. From a human viewpoint, the issue of security starts from concerns over the inner peace of an individual, to security issues within the family, and then to the safety of life and property in the larger society. In every society, people invest huge amounts of money on security and insurance, as a means of guaranteeing protection or safety. Some even invest in expensive offerings and sacrifices to appease the devil for protection and security. Yet, man has not been able to check the tide of natural disasters and tragedies of different categories for two major reasons. First, Revelation 12:12bsays:
“Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! For the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.”
The vicious anger of the devil is clearly seen in his determination to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10). I decree that as the devil continues to unleash his wrath on the earth, you will be securely protected under the shadow of the Almighty in the Name of Jesus.
Secondly, security is of the Lord, the Omnipotent and Omniscient God, the Lord of hosts himself. That is whyPsalm 127:1 says:
“Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.”
All power belongs to God, and He has deployed His power to watch over his people. God is ever ready and nothing can escape His notice or happen with His knowledge (Psalm 121:4). God’s promises regarding security and insurance are so vast that they cover virtually every area of life (Psalm 121:8). Besides protection against natural disasters, weapons of your enemies and plans of the devil, God’s promises on security also guarantee longevity for your life (Psalm 91:10-11). This season, the Lord will keep your soul, and every plan of your enemies shall be frustrated in Jesus’ Name. The Lord will satisfy you with long life and you will not die before your time. However, you must meet with certain conditions in order to claim these wonderful promises for your life. You must first be born-again; this puts you on the same side with God (John 3:3). You must continually dwell under the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1). Also, you must love Him above every other thing and obey Him completely in all things.
Prayer Point: Father, please let Your wonderful promises of peace and security be fulfilled in my life.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Read: Psalm 91:10-16 (KJV)
10 There shall no evil befall thee, neither shall any plague come nigh thy dwelling.
11 For he shall give his angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.
12 They shall bear thee up in their hands, lest thou dash thy foot against a stone.
13 Thou shalt tread upon the lion and adder: the young lion and the dragon shalt thou trample under feet.
14 Because he hath set his love upon me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known my name.
15 He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.
16 With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation.
Bible in One Year: Psalm 127-136; James 5
MESSAGE:
All-round security is of utmost importance to human beings. From a human viewpoint, the issue of security starts from concerns over the inner peace of an individual, to security issues within the family, and then to the safety of life and property in the larger society. In every society, people invest huge amounts of money on security and insurance, as a means of guaranteeing protection or safety. Some even invest in expensive offerings and sacrifices to appease the devil for protection and security. Yet, man has not been able to check the tide of natural disasters and tragedies of different categories for two major reasons. First, Revelation 12:12bsays:
“Woe to the inhabiters of the earth and of the sea! For the devil is come down unto you, having great wrath, because he knoweth that he hath but a short time.”
The vicious anger of the devil is clearly seen in his determination to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10). I decree that as the devil continues to unleash his wrath on the earth, you will be securely protected under the shadow of the Almighty in the Name of Jesus.
Secondly, security is of the Lord, the Omnipotent and Omniscient God, the Lord of hosts himself. That is whyPsalm 127:1 says:
“Except the LORD build the house, they labour in vain that build it: except the LORD keep the city, the watchman waketh but in vain.”
All power belongs to God, and He has deployed His power to watch over his people. God is ever ready and nothing can escape His notice or happen with His knowledge (Psalm 121:4). God’s promises regarding security and insurance are so vast that they cover virtually every area of life (Psalm 121:8). Besides protection against natural disasters, weapons of your enemies and plans of the devil, God’s promises on security also guarantee longevity for your life (Psalm 91:10-11). This season, the Lord will keep your soul, and every plan of your enemies shall be frustrated in Jesus’ Name. The Lord will satisfy you with long life and you will not die before your time. However, you must meet with certain conditions in order to claim these wonderful promises for your life. You must first be born-again; this puts you on the same side with God (John 3:3). You must continually dwell under the shadow of the Almighty (Psalm 91:1). Also, you must love Him above every other thing and obey Him completely in all things.
Prayer Point: Father, please let Your wonderful promises of peace and security be fulfilled in my life.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
Monday, 14 December 2015
Open Heavens 14 December 2015: Monday daily devotion by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Limitless Possibilities
Memorise: Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert. –Isaiah 43:19
Read: Isaiah 43:15-19 (KJV)
15 I am the LORD, your Holy One, the creator of Israel, your King.
16 Thus saith the LORD, which maketh a way in the sea, and a path in the mighty waters;
17 Which bringeth forth the chariot and horse, the army and the power; they shall lie down together, they shall not rise: they are extinct, they are quenched as tow.
18 Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old.
19 Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.
Bible in One Year: Psalm 119:113-126:6; James 3:13-4:17
MESSAGE:
Jesus is the way into the very presence of God (John 14:6). Though Him, we have access to the blessings of the Abrahamic covenant (Galatians 3:14). How much of these blessings have you received? Jesus Christ is also the way forward in life; He is the way where none exists. After the children of Israel left Egypt, at God’s command, they stopped at the Red Sea. While they were by the Red Sea, the Egyptians came chasing hard after them. From the look of things, they had reached their wits’ end. They could not go into the sea, and they could not turn back either(Exodus 14:1-18). They began to cry to Moses, and Moses cried to God. The Lord told them to go forward. He became the way across the sea, and they went through. Are you stuck like the Israelites? Do you feel you have exhausted all known avenues and possibilities? Does it appear there is no other way into your destination? Rejoice! There is still a way in! Jesus is the way that can take you to your destination where all else has failed. He will surely take you into your place of joy, blessing and favour.
It is amazing to know that the Lord can go as far as creating new things in old situations in order to make a way that takes you to your place of desire. He gave His word of assurance on this inIsaiah 43:19:
“Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.”
As long as the Way works in your favour, be prepared to see new things. If you desire to access promotion, but all existing seats on your next level are occupied, invite the Way in. He can create a new position for you. He can give you superiors the idea of a new department and move you into it. There is no limitation to the new things He can create just to make a way for you. Have the enemies blocked the way into your expected desire? The Lord will create a fresh way for you. He will do a new thing that will accommodate your good desires. As long as you have the Way with you, there are limitless possibilities for you.
Prayer Point: Father, I thank You for the limitless opportunities at my disposal, and for always making a way for me in all situations.
Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
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