MORNING
Thursday, January 17, 2019
Author : Bishop Julius Okarike
Verse Of The Day : Nevertheless God, that comforts those that are cast down, comforted us by the coming of Titus. 2 Corinthians 7:6
LISTEN : The world is full of people with heavy hearts, who are in great need of comfort and encouragement. They want to be comforted, not tormented. What does it mean to be comforted? It means to cause someone to feel less worried, upset, frightened, etc. It also means to give strength and hope to others, ease their grief or trouble, and console them when they are in pain. On the other hand, to be tormented is to cause someone or something to feel extreme physical or mental pain. This is what many people do today, cause pain to others (see Job 6:14; 19:21). A lot of people have made themselves tools in the hands of Satan to fulfill his wicked intents and purposes in the world. They are proud to pledge their loyalty to Satan and his wicked activities in the world. This is why they do not have respect for human’s life, or feelings for the pains of others. They torment, torture and traumatise others instead of comforting them. Beloved, we all are created in the image of God. As a result, God wants us to put on His nature and be good to others. (Galatians 6:10; Ephesians 2:10). He wants us to be a source of comfort and support to those that are cast down. God is a God of comfort ; therefore, His children should be a source of comfort to those whose hearts are broken; or their lives threatened. Apostle Paul and his colleagues were comforted by the visit of Titus to them, when they were troubled in their missionary journey to Macedonia. In the same way, we should calm tension in the lives of others by comforting them in times of troubles. Beloved, if what you do is cause pains and heartaches to others, you have wasted your time in the world living a regrettable life. So, comfort and never torment others. Be wise!
Having read today’s devotional, what is expected of you?
1. Determine to be a source of comfort and support to others, and not of grief and torment.
2. Do not offer yourself as a tool to the devil, but as instrument of righteousness to God.
3. Learn to feel the pain of others and do not be insensitive to their plight.
4. Offer your unsolicited support to the heartbroken and afflicted where necessary.
Prayer : Almighty God, you are the God of comfort and peace. Therefore, help me to comfort those who are in pain and not to add to their already problem-ridden life, in Jesus’ name, amen.
Reflection : Comfort others and calm tensions and confusion in their lives, and not compound their woes.
Quote : “If what you do is cause pains and heartaches to others, you have wasted your time living a regrettable life.”
Faith Confession : Today, I confess that God created us to comfort one another. Therefore, I will serve as a source of comfort and support to others, amen.
Biblical Fact: Did you know Simeon and Levi the sons of Jacob, kill the people of Shechem because Shechem the son of Hamor defiled their sister Dinah? (Genesis 34:1-27)
Today In History : January 17, 1819 Simon Bolivar, the “liberator”, proclaims Columbia a republic.
Stunning Fact: Did you know an iguana can stay under water for 28 minutes?
A Word Of Blessing : You will make a difference. Today I prophesy to you, may your life be a blessing to others, and may God cause others to be a blessing to you, in Jesus’ name, amen.
EVENING
Thursday, January 17, 2019
TOPIC : HAVE YOU DISCOVERED ETERNAL LIFE?
Bible Verse : Now this is eternal life – that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you sent. John 17:3
LISTEN : Have you discovered eternal life? The endless life of bliss? Do you not want to live in the new world God is preparing for those who love Him? (John 14:1-3; Revelations 21:1-4). Are you not tired of this world of pain, heartbreak, sorrow, terrorism, death, and the likes? A world where a wealthy man who is supposed to enjoy his wealth is taken away in his prime? A world where the rich hardly enjoy peace of mind and good health? A world where death is a threat to both the young and old. My dear, are you satisfied with this pitiable human’ earthly life? Praise God! There is a solution to these miseries and tragedies of humanity; God is the solution. Our Bible verse says, “Now this is eternal life – that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you sent.” (John 17:3). Knowing the true God and receiving Jesus Christ His only begotten Son is the solution to the woes of humanity. Beloved, if you discover God and His Son Jesus Christ you have discovered eternal life. So, accept Jesus Christ today as your Lord and Saviour. Be wise!
PRAYER POINTS
1. Thank God for His blessings, protection and provision in your life.
2. Ask for forgiveness and repent of every known sin in your life.
3. Ask God to help you fix your eyes on eternity and not just in this world.
4. Thank God for answering your prayers today.
A WORD OF BLESSING
Today, I prophesy to you, may God guide you to make the right choice for your eternal future, in Jesus ‘ name, amen.
