MORNING

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Author : Bishop Julius Okarike

Verse Of The Day : Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. Luke 23:34

LISTEN : Jesus Christ is the Saviour with a good heart. In deep pains on the cross, yet, He asked for us to be blessed. Our sins were forgiven because of Him. God demonstrated His love through Him, and by His death God can forgive even the worst of sinners (Romans 5:8). Beloved, God loves you and will not want to hold anything against you. His love gives birth to His forgiveness; for whom He loves He forgives and restores. His love can pacify His anger no matter what. Jesus Christ was led to Golgotha (a place of the skull) to be crucified. When His accusers had perfected their evil plan to crucify Him, they mocked, scourged Him and nailed Him to the cross. However, despite His agony on the cross, He asked the Father to forgive their ignorance (sin). The Bible says, “When they came to the place that is called The Skull, they crucified him there with the criminals, one on the right and the other on the left. And Jesus said, “Father, forgive them, for they do not know what they are doing.” (Luke 23:33,34). As humans, it is easier to forgive minor offenses, but very difficult to forgive when one is badly hurt. Jesus was badly hurt, yet, He sought forgiveness and peace for those who tormented Him. When He made this prayer on the cross while in pain, He had everyone of us in mind. Beloved, you were in His plan of salvation when He died on the cross. When He forgave His accusers for their ignorance, it means He forgave both past, present and future sinners. Today we are saved and blessed by His love to live for Him. What a wonderful Saviour we have in Jesus! My dear, is there someone you have not forgiven? Determine to forgive because God forgave you through Christ Jesus. Remember, Christ is the Saviour with a good heart, imitate Him. Be wise!

Having read today’s devotional, what is expected of you?
1. Forgive others because God equally forgave us through Jesus Christ.
2. Receive the Gospel of Christ and refuse to walk in ignorance.
3. Do not crucify Jesus Christ afresh by mocking and rejecting His gospel.
4. Embrace and crown Jesus Christ Lord and Saviour of your life Today.

Prayer : Most High God. I thank you for your mercy and love towards me. Help me to live for you all the days of my life, amen.

Reflection : Just as Christ is the reason for our forgiveness; we are the reason for His death on the cross.

Quote : “No one is too sinful to receive forgiveness from God when repentance is present.”

Faith Confession : In Jesus’ name. I confess that Jesus Christ died to save me by His death. Therefore, I will serve and worship Him for the rest of my life, amen.

Biblical Fact: Did you know Eli’s two sons were Hophni and Phinehas (1 Samuel 1:3).

Today In History : March 31, 1980 President Jimmy Carter deregulates the banking industry.

Stunning Fact : Did you know a snail can sleep for 3 years?

A Word Of Blessing : It is well with you. Today I speak on your life. May the death of Jesus Christ on the cross change and save your life for ever. In Jesus ‘ name, amen.

EVENING

TOPIC : THIS IS NOT TIME TO WORRY IT IS TIME TO PRAY

Tuesday, March 31, 2020

Bible Verse : Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God. Philippians 4:6

LISTEN : Tension is building up everywhere around the world, and people are becoming the more confused and distracted by fear of coronavirus. My dear, worry not, rather pray more. Put absolute confidence in God by giving quality time to prayer and none to worry. Ask God for what you want and have faith in Him to answer you at the right time (Matthew 7:7-8). Refuse to be depressed no matter what. Beloved, you can overcome depression. To overcome depression, time should be given to prayer and not to worry and anxiety. Always be positive and share your problems with anyone who feels your pain. Above all, tell your problems to God. It is better to tell God about what you are going through than to trouble your heart worrying about what might happen. God’s word warns us not to worry about our troubles, but rather commit them to Him in prayer and thanksgiving. My dear, that is what you should do. So, pray and keep praying. Learn to ask in prayer and you will receive your desires. Remember, this is not time to worry but time to pray. Be wise!

Prayer : Dear Lord. Thank you for your words today. Help me to call to you in prayer always, amen!