MORNING
Sunday, January 20, 2019
Author : Bishop Julius Okarike
Verse Of The Day : Nevertheless, you did well to share with me in my trouble. Philippians 4:14
LISTEN : Leaders, especially church leaders (ministers of the gospel) are not angels or superhumans, they are flesh and blood. They have feelings, needs and problems like every other person. They could feel bored, fall sick, experience hardships, suffer pain, disappointment, heartbreak, etc. However, a good leader is resilient and determined to take his or her people to their God-ordained future. Leaders need us just as much as we need them. Therefore, we should share with them in their troubles. That is, feel their pains and heartbreak; support their visions, assist them in their times of needs, etc. Apostle Paul commended the Philippians for their help to him in his time of hardship. When everyone else abandoned him, they (the Philippians) shared with him in his trouble. Our Bible verse says, “Nevertheless, you did well to share with me in my trouble.” (Philippians 4:14). My dear, it is not out of place to support your pastors (ministers of the gospel of Christ). As a matter of fact, it is to your own credit to be a blessing to them. Paul says, “And as you Philippians know, at the beginning of my gospel ministry, when I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in this matter of giving and receiving except you alone. For even in Thessalonica on more than one occasion you sent something for my need. I do not say this because I am seeking a gift. Rather, I seek the credit that abounds to your account.” (Philippians 4:15-17). Beloved, we rob ourselves of the blessings of God when we choose to deny others of God’s blessings in our lives. God’s blessings are meant to be used to fund His works and bless humanity. Therefore, when we miss this purpose we have missed God’s plans for His people. So, let us help our leaders in their times of troubles. Be wise!
Having read today’s devotional, what is expected of you?
1. Help your leaders in their times of troubles to fulfill God’s purposes for their lives.
2. Be kind to your leaders and never forget that they are humans not angels.
3. Employ the blessings of God in your life to support God’s kingdom works.
4. Learn to feel the pain of others and meet their needs if you have the resources.
Prayer: Merciful God, you are loving and compassionate. Help me to be compassionate to others, and to support the agenda of your kingdom in the earth, as long as I live, in Jesus’ name, amen.
Reflection : Church leaders are not angels or superhumans, they are flesh and blood; therefore, never judge them harshly.
Quote : “We rob ourselves of the blessings of God when we choose to rob others of God’s blessings in our lives.”
Faith Confession : Today, I confess that God cares about His servants. Therefore, I will do same as long as I live, in Jesus name, amen.
Biblical Fact: Did you know that life and death are in the power of the tongue? (Proverbs 18:21).
Today In History : January 20, 1952 British troops occupy Ismalia, Egypt.
Stunning Fact: Did you know when lightning strikes, it can reach up to 30,000 degrees celsius (54,000 degrees fahrenheit)?
A Word Of Blessing : You will make a difference. Today I speak to your life, may God bless you. May your heart be directed to do the will of God now and forever, amen.
EVENING
TOPIC : GIVE PRAISE TO GOD
Sunday, January 20, 2019
Bible Verse : Bless the Lord oh my soul and all that is within me bless his Holy name. Bless the Lord oh my soul and forget not all His benefit… and tender mercies Psalms 103:1-4
LISTEN: By our actions, we are either giving praise to God or complaining about Him. If we cannot forget what God has done for us we can bless and praise His name heartily. The beauty of life is in acknowledging God for His goodness. The meaning of life cannot be discovered until we think on what God has done and glorify Him for it. Thinking about the wonderful works of God in the universe will open our eyes to the true meaning of life; and such knowledge will provoke a heart of praise to God. My dear, no matter the pain, affliction, sorrow, misfortune you may be going through in this life, there is still enough reasons to be grateful to God for His goodness. Let us bless and praise the name of the LORD because through Him we have protection, deliverance, provisions, healing, forgiveness, salvation, comfort in trials, wisdom, understanding, peace, etc. No matter what we have done or achieved for ourselves, God is the one who made all things possible. Beloved, no matter your situation in life, you should not be blinded to the countless blessings of God in your life. Therefore, like David, let us begin to bless the LORD today for all his benefits to us. Let us praise Him with affection and gratitude for He is good. (Psalms 92:1). Henceforth, praise God because praise is good to Him. Be wise!
PRAYER POINTS
1. Bless God for today no matter what.
2. Ask God for forgiveness, and grace to follow His will.
3. Pray for wisdom to acknowledge His blessings in your life.
4. Intercede for believers in Christ around the world for grace to love God.
5. Pray against spiritual wickedness, and ask God to keep you safe.
A WORD OF BLESSING
It is well with you. Today I prophesy to you, may you acknowledge and appreciate the blessings of God in your life. And may you not forget all His benefits in your life, in Jesus’ name, amen.
