Topic:
Your Authority In Christ
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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
THURSDAY, APRIL 3RD PASTOR ANITA OYAKHILOME YOUR AUTHORITY IN CHRIST But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus (Ephesians 2:4-6). The Lord Jesus is seated at the right hand of the Father, far above all principality, and power, might, dominion, and every name that is named. He occupies the most exalted throne there is; and the good news is that we’re seated with Him. Thus,together, we’re reigning over all principality, and power, and might,and dominion,and every name that is named. Glory to God! God gave Jesus authority over all creation. At the mount of transfiguration, He spoke out of heaven and said, “...This is my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him”(Matthew17:5). Here, God commanded all creation—all of nature—animate and inanimate, to be subject to Jesus. Now, in our opening verse the Apostle Paul makes this remarkable statement about us,the new creation in Christ: “Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ,(by grace ye are saved;) And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus”(Ephesian s2:5-6). In the realm of the spirit, you’re seated with Christ; you occupy his place of authority,with the power of attorney to act in His stead. All the powers of darkness respond to, and recognize, your authority in Christ. Therefore, be bold to exercise this dominion in every area of your life. You’re not ordinary. You operate from a higher realm where your words are backed with divine power. Ecclesiastes 8:4 says, “Where the word of a king is, there is power….” All authority has been vested on you to alter the circumstances of your life to be in sync with God’s perfect will. You can speak words of power to break the influence of Satan over men’s lives, and cause the light of this glorious Gospel to shine upon them. PRAYER Dear Father, I thank you for giving me all authority in heaven and in earth to walk in dominion over all the power of the enemy. I reign gloriously today over every force of nature, as I triumphantly fulfil God’s perfect will for me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY Luke 10:19 (AMP) Behold! I have given you authority and power to trample upon serpents and scorpions, and [physical and mental strength and ability] over all the power that the enemy [possesses]; and nothing shall in any way harm you. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING 1 Year Bible Reading Plan Luke 9:37-62 Joshua 16-19 2 Year Bible Reading Plan Romans 6:12-23 Psalm 106 |
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Topic:
AS HE IS, SO ARE YOU
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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES. AS HE IS, SO
ARE YOU *PASTOR CHRIS OYAKHILOME* WEDNESDAY, APRIL 2ND, 2014 Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the Day of Judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world (1 John 4:17). When you tell someone, “Oh, you’re just like Raymond,” you’ve awakened a level of curiosity in that fellow, and he’ll want to know who Raymond is. Our opening verse, referring to Jesus, says,as He is, so are we in this world. It’s therefore worth finding out from the Word who Jesus is; how did He live when He walked the earth? The Bible tells us that He walked on water, talked to deaf ears, and they were unstopped. He spoke to blind eyes and they opened. He talked to lame legs, and they were vitalized and restored. Even maimed limbs grew back at His word. He spoke to the dead,and they came back to life! When He hushed the raging tempest, the disciples exclaimed of Him, “... What manner of man is this! For he commandeth even the winds and water, and they obey him” (Luke 8:25). He was so awe-inspiring! It’s even more breath-taking to realize that He did all these as a man, having laid His glory aside (Philippians 2:7). All these miracles and glorious manifestations of the supernatural in His life happened before He went to the cross. It was after His resurrection that He became the glorified Christ (1 Peter 1:21). This is marvellous! Now, notice that our opening verse didn’t say, “…as he was, so are we,” rather, it says, “as he is so are we!” The image of the glorified Christ you see in the Word— the mirror of God—is actually your reflection as a new creation in Christ. When you look in a mirror,you’d see your reflection, because the mirror reflects whatever image is before it. The Word is that mirror that God gave you so you could look into it, and see your real self. So, when you read, “...as he is, so are we in this world,” you ought to say, “Wow, as He is now, with all His glory and splendour, so am I today!” Blessed be God! Meditate on this truth thoroughly, and consciously think, talk, walk, and act like Jesus. Then like Him, you can say to blind eyes, “open up,” and they’ll open! You can say to the lame, “get up and walk,” and it’ll happen. You can touch others, and they’ll be blessed; because as He is, so are you! CONFESSION I thank you precious Father for making me the effulgence of your glory, beauty and grace. Greatness, excellence and success are in my spirit! I’m unveiling the glory, virtues and perfections of my recreated spirit to my world! FURTHER STUDY Hebrews 1:3 Living Bible (TLB) 3 God’s Son shines out with God’s glory, and all that God’s Son is and does marks him as God. He regulates the universe by the mighty power of his command. He is the one who died to cleanse us and clear our record of all sin, and then sat down in highest honor beside the great God of heaven. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING 1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 9:17-36 Joshua 13-15 2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 6:1-11 Psalm 105 |
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Topic:
*FAITH AND KNOWLEDGE*.
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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
TUESDAY, APRIL 1ST. *FAITH AND KNOWLEDGE*. PASTOR CHRIS So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God (Romans 10:17). Faith is based on a promise, while knowledge is based on revelation—spir itual information. We all have faith according to the Scriptures, but functioning according to the revelation knowledge that God has made available to you through His Word is what puts you over in life. That’s what makes the difference. For example, David wasn’t merely demonstrating faith when he confronted and defeated Goliath; he had revelation knowledge of God’s covenant with Israel. It wasn’t that he had more faith than everyone else in Israel; what distinguished him was what he knew— revelation knowledge. When he asked about Goliath in 1 Samuel 17:26 “…who is this uncircumcised Philistine, that he should defy the armies of the living God?” he was speaking from his knowledge of the circumcision. He knew the implication and benefits of the circumcision. He knew, on the basis of that spiritual information, that he could mince Goliath, the champion of the Philistines. Understand this: when you know the Word, you don’t need to try to squeeze out faith! That knowledge gives you faith. What David did was a demonstration of his knowledge; he knew the significance and power of his circumcision. The Word of God already gave the children of Israel the clear information that they would not fall before the uncircumcised. For David, that wasn’t something he needed to try to “believe,” but something he had come to know; the knowledge was in his spirit. You become effective in life as a Christian when you function according to revelation knowledge. In Matthew 22:29, Jesus said, “Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures….” He lets us know that the reason people make mistakes, and go wrong in their choices and actions, is that they lack the revelation knowledge of the Word. Have a burning desire for the knowledge of God’s Word. Consistently inundate your spirit and mind with spiritual information from God’s Word. Your ability to live a victorious, joyous, and prosperous life is dependent on how much of God’s Word you know and live by. PRAYER Dear Father, thank you for your Word, which I willingly open my heart to receive today. As I study the scriptures, and listen to your Word, my spirit is flooded with light and faith in me to surmount every adversity and live triumphantly, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY: Acts 20: 32; (KJV) 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. (AMP) And now [brethren], I commit you to God [I deposit you in His charge, entrusting you to His protection and care]. And I commend you to the Word of His grace [to the commands and counsels and promises of His unmerited favor]. It is able to build you up and to give you [your rightful] inheritance among all God’s set- apart ones (those consecrated, purified, and transformed of soul). Ephesians 1:17-18.(KJV) 17 That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: 18 The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints, (AMP) 17 [For I always pray to] the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, that He may grant you a spirit of wisdom and revelation [of insight into mysteries and secrets] in the [deep and intimate] knowledge of Him, 18 By having the eyes of your heart flooded with light, so that you can knowandunderstand the hope to which He has called you, and how rich is His glorious inheritance in the saints (His set- apart ones), DAILY SCRIPTURE READING: 1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 9:1-17, Joshua 10-12 2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 5:12-21, Psalm 104 |
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Topic:
He Gives More Ability!
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He Gives More Ability! - Monday, March
31st, 2014 - Pastor Chris A wise man is strong; yea, a man of knowledge increaseth strength (Proverbs 24:5). The Hebrew word translated "strength" in the opening verse is "kôach"; it's also translated "ability" or "power" in several other places in the Scriptures. For example, in Isaiah 40:29, the same Hebrew word is translated "power": "He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might he increaseth strength." This means God gives more ability or strength to the weak. Proverbs 24:5 tells us that a man of knowledge increases ability. That means through the knowledge of God's Word, you multiply your abilities; you discover that there's so much more you can do. God gives us responsibilities according to the abilities that He's given to us. Therefore, no matter what you do, there's divine ability working in you; however, you'll never be able to do beyond the ability of God that's working in you! You can't do more than He has graced you for. There're people who have the ability to run a business, and handle money in multiplied millions. Some have the ability to run a mid-scale business, while some others can only operate on a small scale. In the area of leadership it's the same thing; you can only lead to the extent of the ability granted you by God. There're people who can only run their own biological family; outside of that, they can't lead anybody else. There're those who can run a whole city, and there're those who can run a whole nation; it all depends on the ability that God gives to you. Now, what God does for you when He wants to upgrade your life is to increase your ability; your capacity to do more. James 4:6 says "But he giveth more grace...." He gives you more grace, and grace, amongst other blessings, brings abilities into your life because He desires to accomplish more through you. He makes you more efficient, such that with the same efforts you used to put in, you'd produce greater results. PRAYER: Dear Father, I thank you for the knowledge of your Word in my spirit, causing my abilities to increase. I'm energized to do all things, being sufficient in your sufficiency. I recognize the working of your power in me to accomplish everything you've ordained for me to do today, excellently, in Jesus' Name. Amen. Further Study: Colossians 1:29: Whereunto I also labour, striving according to his working, which worketh in me mightily. 2 Corinthians 3:5: Not that we are sufficient of ourselves to think any thing as of ourselves; but our sufficiency is of God; 1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 8:40-56, Joshua 7-9 2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 5:1-11, Psalm 103 |
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Topic:
The Regeneration Is Not Over
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The Regeneration Is Not Over - Sunday
March 30th, 2014 - Pastor Chris ...Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel (Matthew 19:28). The positioning of the punctuation in our opening scripture is somewhat misleading. The translators used their prerogative to place a comma after "...ye which have followed me...." It should have come after the word "regeneration" to read, "...ye which have followed me in the regeneration, when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel." You might ask, "What's the difference?" The difference is huge. Jesus wasn't referring to the regeneration as something that would happen in the future, but as something that was happening already. The translators must have thought Jesus was talking about reconstitution. Reconstitution may be synonymous with renewal, but they're not the same. In Acts 3:21, the Bible gives an instance of reconstitution, "Whom the heaven must receive until the times of restitution of all things, which God hath spoken by mouth of all his holy prophets since the world began." The reconstitution, restitution, restoration, rebuilding, or putting together again of all things is futuristic. The regeneration however is a rebirth, a renewal, not a restoration. When you were born again, you were given a new life. "Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost" (Titus 3:5). Jesus came to begin this regeneration with His disciples, hence, His reason for saying to them, "...ye which have followed me in the regeneration...." His disciples will receive a reward in future for following Him in the regeneration, but it surely isn't over. We're still preaching, and carrying out the work of regeneration today. We're with Him in His project of bringing men into a new birth of the Spirit; we also shall have our reward for following Him in this regeneration. PRAYER: Dear heavenly Father, I'm so glad to be chosen of you to be a part of this great ministry of reconciliation, carrying out and carrying on the work which the Lord Jesus began, both to do and teach. I recognize my responsibility as a minister, and I keep at it, spreading the good news and bringing many to righteousness, in Jesus' Name. Amen. Further Study: 2 Corinthians 5:18-19: And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. 2 Timothy 4:2: Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine. 1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 8:22-39, Joshua 5-6 2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 4:11-25, Psalm 102 |
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Topic:
Called To Manifest His Glory
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Rhapsody of Realities
PASTOR CHRIS SATURDAY, MARCH 29TH CALLED TO MANIFEST HIS GLORY For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God. Romans 8:19 Zion is revealed in God's Word as the perfection of beauty, from where God shines forth: "Out of Zion, the perfection of beauty, God shines forth" (Psalm 50:2 AMP). This means we're the manifestation of His glory; we radiate His splendour. Halleluiah. The world ought to see the expression of God's beauty in our lives, for that's the life He's given us—a life of glory and excellence (2 Peter 1:3). Hebrews 1:3 describes Jesus as the effulgence of God's glory, and the express image of His person. The Lord Jesus Himself proclaimed, "...he that hath seen me hath seen the Father..."(John 14:9). As a Christian, the same truth applies to you today because "...as he is, so are we in this world" (1 John 4:17). You're His icon; His express image, and the out-shining of His glory. Romans 8:30 says, "Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified." It reminds of the words of Jesus in John 17:22: "And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one." God's purpose isn't just to have His glory reside in you, but for you to be immersed and completely inundated by it until you become inseparable from the glory, thus becoming the glory. You're not journeying to become the glory of God; it's already a present-hour reality. You were born the bearer of the glory of God. Wake up to this truth, and it'll change your mentality! Every day, say to yourself, "I'm the manifestation of the glory of God; His splendour, excellence and perfection are expressed through me." It makes no difference the challenges you might be facing, the glory of God is going to be manifested in that situation! The whole creation is waiting for your showing up: for you to manifest the glory of God. Live confidently today with this consciousness! PRAYER Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for the priceless honour of having you dwell in me. I acknowledge your divine presence in my life. I'm yielded completely to your wisdom and grace, in manifesting your glory, power and awesomeness to my world, in Jesus' Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY 1 Peter 2:9 (AMP) DAILY SCRIPTURE READING 1 Year Bible Reading Plan Luke 8:1-21 Joshua 3-4 2 Year Bible Reading Plan Romans 4:1-10 Psalm 101 |
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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
YOU CAN ONLY KNOW GOD BY REVELATION *PASTOR CHRIS OYAKHILOME* FRIDAY, MARCH 28TH, 2014 My people are destroyed (crushed, brought under, made poor, oppressed) for lack of knowledge... (Hosea 4:6). The knowledge referred to above isn’t the lack of knowledge of economics, government, physics, or theology, but the lack of spiritual insight and understanding of spiritual realities; lack of revelation knowledge. The Lord Jesus gave a parable in Matthew 13:3-9 about a sower who went forth to sow his seeds. In the process, some seeds fell by the wayside and the birds of the air came and picked them up. Some others fell on hard ground; some fell among thorns, while some fell on good ground. Explaining the parable, He said the seeds that fell by the wayside, and were eaten up by birds represented people who hear the Word and receive it without understanding, therefore Satan comes immediately and steals the Word that was sown in their hearts. The Word of God will only benefit you when it’s received with spiritual understanding, and not through human reasoning. You can never know God through your knowledge of science, history, philosophy, or psychology. Even religion can’t give you the true knowledge of God. You can only know Him by revelation. When Jesus asked His disciples in Matthew 16:15-16 “Who do you say that I am?” Peter answered and said, “You are the Christ, the Son of the living God.” Notice the Lord’s response: “Blessed art thou, Simon Barjona: for flesh and blood hath not revealed it unto thee, but my Father which is in heaven.” Peter could only know Him by revelation. This is the reason a man may hear the Gospel of Christ’s salvation and weep, because he suddenly understands the sacrifice of Jesus for him on the cross, and embrace salvation. Meanwhile, some other fellow hears the same message of the Gospel and attempts to reason it out in his brain, and as a result, the message won’t get into his heart to produce result. The message of Christ’s salvation is not meant for your reasoning but for your spirit. No wonder the Spirit of God, through the Apostle Paul, prayed that God’s people may know the love of Christ, which surpasses knowledge (Ephesians 3:19). He’s talking about knowing the love of Christ beyond the senses and human definitions, but according to revelation. If you’re yet to make Jesus the Lord of your life, the love of Christ can become real to you today if you’d receive Jesus into your heart to be born again. Turn to the “Prayer of Salvation” page, towards the end of this devotional, and pray that prayer, meaning every word with all your heart. PRAYER Dear Father, I declare that my heart is a fertile ground for your Word. As your Word comes to me, I receive it with faith, meekness and gladness, thus, it sinks deep into me and produces the fruits of what it says, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY Proverbs 4:23 Living Bible (TLB) 23 Above all else, guard your affections. For they influence everything else in your life. 1 Peter 1:23 Living Bible (TLB) 23 For you have a new life. It was not passed on to you from your parents, for the life they gave you will fade away. This new one will last forever, for it comes from Christ, God’s ever-living Message to men. Matthew 13:23 Living Bible (TLB) 23 The good ground represents the heart of a man who listens to the message and understands it and goes out and brings thirty, sixty, or even a hundred others into the Kingdom.” DAILY SCRIPTURE READING 1 Year Reading Plan : Luke 7:36-50 Joshua 1-2 2 Year Reading Plan : Romans 3:26-31 Psalm 98-100 |
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Topic:
SEVERED FROM PERISHING.
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SEVERED FROM PERISHING
THURSDAY, MARCH 27TH,2014. PASTOR ANITA For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.(John 3:16) So many in the world today are suffering various degrees of satanic afflictions and oppression because of their ignorance of the Gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. John 10:10 (NIV) says, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." He accomplished His work, and commanded those who believe in Him to go into all the world, and preach the Gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15). Gospel means "good news." Jesus called it good news because of its content. Our opening verse says, "...whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." What a Gospel! What this means is that if you believe in Jesus, there's a divine decree that you should not perish, but have everlasting life. That means you've been separated from the destructions and calamities ravaging the world today. Moreover, you have eternal life—the God-life; the indestructible, incorruptible, and impregnable life of God! Because of this life in you, no force—physical or spiritual—can harm you. Keep thanking Him for the new life He's given you, and boldly declare that you're more than a conqueror! The life in you is sickness-proof, disease-proof, poverty-proof, and failure-proof. It's a life of glory, victory, success and excellence. Discover it and walk in it. CONFESSION: I have the life and nature of God in me; therefore, I'm more than a conqueror. I live a triumphant and victorious life every day, far above Satan and the negative systems of this world! I thank you Father, for appointing me to a life of glory, victory, success, and excellence. FURTHER STUDY: John 5:24(AMP) I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, the person whose ears are open to My words [who listens to My message] and believes and trusts in and clings to and relies on Him Who sent Me has (possesses now) eternal life. And he does not come into judgment [does not incur sentence of judgment, will not come under condemnation], but he has already passed over out of death into life. 1 John 5:13(AMP) I write this to you who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) the name of the Son of God [in the peculiar services and blessings conferred by Him on men], so that you may know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that you [already] have life, yes, eternal life. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING 1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 7:1-35;Deuteronomy 33-34 2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 3:20-25;Psalm 97 |
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Then came the disciples to Jesus apart,
and said, Why could not we cast him out? – Matthew 17:19. There was a day the disciples of Jesus Christ tried but couldn’t cure an epileptic child as contained in the opening scriptures but that’s not how the story ended! There was a day Peter, the rock upon whom the Rock of Ages promised to build the church was running away from a little girl and other witnesses that linked him to Jesus. He denied, cursed and vowed never to have met Him, but, that’s not how the story ended! There was a day 120 disciples of Jesus Christ were hiding away in the upper room from the scorn, oppression, and persecution of the religious and political authorities, but, that was not the way the story ended! There was a time Abraham was childless for 25 years. There was a time Joseph was thrown into a pit, sold as a slave, made a servant, lied on and imprisoned. There was a time Daniel was thrown into the lion’s den. But that’s not how their stories ended! When the story ended, the shadows and aprons of the disciples were healing the sick and raising the dead! (Acts 15:15; Acts 19:12). That same cowering Peter was boldly teaching and saving three thousand people in just one meeting! (Acts 2:42). When the story ended, that same 120 disciples that were hiding from people had these testimonies recorded against their names… Women received their dead raised to life again. Others were tortured, not accepting deliverance, that they might obtain a better resurrection. Still others had trial of mockings and scourgings, yes, and of chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were sawn in two, were tempted, were slain with the sword (Hebrews 11:35-37). When the story ended, Abraham had Isaac amongst other children, Joseph became the Prime Minister of Egypt, Daniel became the bosom friend of lions who veraciously consumed those that orchestrated his ordeal! You’re the motivation behind this write- up. Wherever you may be in life, that’s not how the story is going to end! That same power that raised Jesus Christ from the dead dwells in your mortal body today! That same Spirit of God that turned timid Peter and indeed, the disciples of old, into miracle workers lives in you and so, your story will not be different! Declare to anybody that cares to listen “watch out for the ending part of my story! This is not how the story will end!”. May your day be filled with miracles in Jesus name. Amen! |
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Topic:
The Spirit Of Wisdom
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The Spirit Of Wisdom
Wednesday, March 26th, 2014 – Pastor Chris That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: The eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints (Ephesians 1:17-18). The Spirit of wisdom refers to the operations of the Spirit of God in wisdom; the Spirit of God manifesting Himself in wisdom. Now, when it says "the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him," the expression seems to suggest that the Apostle Paul was dealing with two different things: the spirit of wisdom, and the spirit of revelation; no! He's dealing with one and the same thing; he's looking at the Spirit of wisdom bringing you revelation—which, in Greek is "apocalupsis"; the unveiling of mysteries. Another important word to study in that expression is the word "and." In the Greek rendering, the word translated "and" could also be translated as "in," "with," or "for." Therefore, a better rendering should actually be, "...the spirit of wisdom in revelation," or "the spirit of wisdom for revelation," in the exact knowledge of God. The Amplified version puts it this way: "[For I always pray to] the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, that He may grant you a spirit of wisdom and revelation [of insight into mysteries and secrets] in the [deep and intimate] knowledge of Him. By having the eyes of your heart flooded with light...." This is what the Spirit of wisdom will do for you when He has His way in your life: He'll bring you revelation—insight into mysteries and secrets. Secondly, He brings you light (photizo—Greek); He floods your path with light; He illumines your mind to have such extraordinary amplitude of comprehension. Thirdly, He brings you counsel and direction, such that life ceases to be mysterious to you. What you need is to acknowledge that you've been filled with the Spirit of wisdom. Even now, say, "I have the Spirit of wisdom; therefore I have insight into mysteries and secrets; I have extraordinary amplitude of comprehension to deal wisely in all my affairs. The compelling force to function at the highest level of excellence, and in the perfect will of God, is at work in me today!" PRAYER: Dear Father, thank you for filling me with the Spirit of wisdom for revelation in the full and exact knowledge of God; thank you for flooding my heart with light, granting me spiritual insight into mysteries and divine secrets, in Jesus' Name. Amen. Further Study: Exodus 28:3; Deuteronomy 34:9; Isaiah 11:2 1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 6:17-49, Deuteronomy 31-32 2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 3:13-19, Psalm 95-96 |
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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
TUESDAY, MARCH 25TH PASTOR CHRIS OYAKHILOME BE ACTIVE IN A LOCAL ASSEMBLY The rod and reproof give wisdom: but a child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame.... Correct thy son, and he shall give thee rest; yea, he shall give delight unto thy soul. (Proverbs 29:15 , 17) While growing up, your parents might have taught you certain values to make you a decent and successful person. Some other kids who weren't taught the same probably ended up wild. That's how it works spiritually too; you have to be nurtured in the things of the spirit to become that man or woman God predestined you to be. That's what the local church is for, and that's why it's very important for every Christian to belong to, and function effectively, in a local Church. In Hebrews 10:25 the Lord expressed displeasure at those who don't take attending church services seriously, and warned others against imitating their ways: "Not forsaking the assembling of ourselves together, as the manner of some is; but exhorting one another: and so much the more, as ye see the day approaching." Some Christians say, "Well, every Sunday I go to whichever church I choose." That's like a child that goes to any house at night-time and asks, "Can I sleep here tonight?" Imagine the kind of life he's going to live! That's the way some people are spiritually. They hop in for Sunday service, and then decide to hop into another church the following Sunday. That's wrong. Some others don't go to church at all, but rather stay at home to watch one preacher after the other on television. So they say, "I have many pastors; I watch them on TV." A pastor can teach you on TV, but he can't pastor you on TV. There's so much to gain by belonging to a church. There, you'll be strengthened through the Word of God and through the ministration of the Spirit. This won't happen if you hop from one church to another, or merely watch sermons on television. At best, you'll have a lot of information, but you wouldn't have made much spiritual progress; you won't be grounded in the truth, for the Church is the ground and pillar of truth (1 Timothy 3:15). In the Church, you're taught God's Word, which enables you to deal wisely in the affairs of life, whilst being positioned for limitless possibilities and endless victories. PRAYER Dear Father, I thank you for the opportunity to have my life improved and upgraded through your Word, as I make myself functional in the Church, taking advantage of the organized structure of the local assembly, which you've set for my spiritual growth and edification. I'm strengthened and energized for victory through fellowship with the Spirit, and my brothers and sisters in Christ, in Jesus' Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY Hebrews 10:25(TLB) Let us not neglect our church meetings, as some people do, but encourage and warn each other, especially now that the day of his coming back again is drawing near. Romans 16:1(Amp) NOW I introduce and commend to you our sister Phoebe, a deaconess of the church at Cenchreae, DAILY SCRIPTURE READING 1 Year Bible Reading Plan Luke 6:1-16 Deuteronomy 29-30 2 Year Bible Reading Plan Romans 3:1-12 Psalm 94 |
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Topic:
The Shipwreck
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The only survivor of a shipwreck was
washed up on a small, uninhibited island. He prayed feverishly for God to rescue him, and every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming. Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect him from the elements, and to store his few possessions. But then one day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, the smoke rolling up to the sky. The worst had happened; everything was lost. He was stunned with grief and anger. "God, how could you do this to me!" he cried. Early the next day, however, he was awakened by the sound of a ship that was approaching the island. It had come to rescue him. "How did you know I was here?" asked the weary man of his rescuers. "We saw your smoke signal," they replied. Author Unknown It is easy to get discouraged when things are going bad. But we shouldn't lose heart, because God is at work in our lives, even in the midst of pain and suffering. Remember, next time your little hut is burning to the ground, it just may be a smoke signal that summons the grace of God! |
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Rhapsody of Realities
“…Grace, Together With All Wisdom…” Monday, March 24th . Pastor Anita In him we have redemption through his blood, the forgiveness of sins, in accordance with the riches of God’s grace that he lavished on us with all wisdom and understanding (Ephesians 1:7-8 NIV). This is so beautiful! I wish God’s people will be wisdom-conscious in addition to being grace-conscious. The same way that He has lavished His grace on you, in superabundance, so has He abounded towards you in all wisdom and prudence. Just as grace is of the Spirit, and can be multiplied in your life through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord (2 Peter 1:2), so is wisdom of the Spirit. In addition, you grow in wisdom through the Word. God’s Word has the divine ability to impart wisdom to your spirit: “And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise…” (2 Timothy 3:15). If you’re born again, Christ has been made unto you wisdom (1 Corinthians 1:30). Divine wisdom is a product of your recreated human spirit that you must be conscious of, just as you’re conscious of the grace of God that brought you salvation. Acknowledge that you have the wisdom of God functioning in you! The Bible says, “That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus” (Philemon 1:6). When you acknowledge wisdom, wisdom will promote you; as a force, it’ll control and propel you to say and do the right things. Wisdom causes you to be in the centre of God’s will for your life, gloriously fulfilling your divine purpose in Him. It’ll change everything about you. You’ll have divine insight into mysteries and secrets, and be able to deal wisely in the affairs of life, knowing the right steps to take in everything you do. Excitingly, wisdom is already in your spirit! All you need do is recognize it; confess the Word and walk in it! As you do, wisdom will exalt, promote, and bring exceeding beauty and excellence into your life. Confession The wisdom of God is functioning in me today, guiding me in the path of prosperity, victory, and success. I thank you Father, for your grace and wisdom lavished upon me to excel and be a champion in life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. Further Study: Proverbs 4:7-9 Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. 8 Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her. 9 She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee. Daily Scripture Reading 1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 5:17-39, Deuteronomy 28 2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 2:21-29, Psalm 92-93 |
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Topic:
Your Walk With The Spirit
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Rhapsody of Realities
Sunday, March 23rd Your Walk With The Spirit Pastor Chris Oyakhilome PhD …Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God (Hebrews 11:5). Your whole life ought to be based on nothing else but your walk with the Holy Spirit; that’s the secret to a life of absolute and unlimited success. When you spend quality time in fellowship with the Holy Spirit, He lifts your vision and enables you to see like God. You’ll see what He sees that other men don’t see. You’ll find yourself living in a realm that the world doesn’t think is real; an arena they probably only dream of. So many people chase after the wrong things in life. They think of life only in terms of material things or about money, but life isn’t about material gains. The Bible says, “...A man’s life doesn’t consist in the abundance of his possessions” (Luke 12:15 RSV). Life isn’t about anything in this world. What matters is your walk with the Holy Spirit. Look at Jesus; the Bible says about Him, “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power…” (Act 10:38). That was His secret…the Holy Spirit! No wonder, He lived as a master over everything. He didn’t live in a big palace like Caesar or King Herod, and He didn’t dress in the most expensive clothes. But He definitely wasn’t a pauper, and He never showed Himself to be that way. He was princely in every way, yet He showed us that life was more than material things. Life is more about the victory inside you through the Spirit. It’s your response to circumstances; your ability to control and dominate the forces of nature and the world around you to live above circumstances and have a relationship with the Father that the world can’t influence. That’s the life God has called us into: a joyful life, twenty- four hours a day, where nothing moves you because you’re bigger than the world. It’s a life where you get anything you want, not to keep it wasted, but to use it for His glory. In your walk with the Holy Spirit, ensure you speak in tongues regularly; don’t be lazy about it. It’ll catapult your life to higher realms of glory in a way you never imagined. Confession I walk closely with the Spirit of God and I’m constantly transported by Him into the glorious and higher realms of life, far removed from death, defeat, destruction, sickness, poverty, and failure. My eyes of understanding are enlightened; I see the invisible and I’m empowered to do the impossible. Halleluiah! F U R T H U R S T U D Y: 2 Corinthians 13:14 The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen. ; 1 Corinthians 14:4 He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself; but he that prophesieth edifieth the church. Daily Scripture Reading 1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 5:1-16, Deuteronomy 25-27 2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 2:12-20, Psalm 91 |
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Topic:
MIX HOPE WITH FAITH AND LOVE
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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
SATURDAY, MARCH 22ND PASTOR CHRIS OYAKHILOME MIX HOPE WITH FAITH AND LOVE For unto us was the gospel preached, as well as unto them: but the word preached did not profit them, not being mixed with faith in them that heard it. (Hebrews 4:2) The Word of God ministers hope, faith and love. Many times, when people hear the Word, the first thing it gives them is hope. However, hope is not enough. Hope gives you the picture afar off; pictures of possibilities; it shows you the blessings that could result from acting on God’s Word. Faith, on the other hand, is the response of your human spirit to that hope that God’s Word has ministered to you. While love is the way you act upon it; the way you live by the Word that God has given you. When the Word of God ministers hope to you, you have a choice to mix it with faith and love for it to produce the results that God wants. If you don’t mix it with faith, you’ll get a different result. For example, in the Old Testament, Sarah, Abraham’s wife, heard the Word, that she was going to have a son for Abraham (Genesis 17:16). But at that moment in her life, she didn’t mix the Word with faith. She tried to make God’s Word come to pass her own way, by contriving to give her maid, Hagar, to Abraham so she could get a son through her. The Word brought her hope, but God required her faith as well. However, things didn’t quite work out as she expected. Hagar did bear a son for Abraham, Ishmael by name, but that wasn’t the result God wanted. Sarah soon became frustrated and upset by the result she got (Genesis 21:9). Don’t try to make God do things your own way or try to “help” Him make His Word come to pass. The Lord never fails or disappoints. He however expects you to mix His Word with faith and walk in love, for faith works by love. PRAYER Dear Father, as I study your Word today, my spirit is enlightened to know and walk in the paths you’ve ordained for me. I declare that the power, glory and realities of your glorious Kingdom are unveiled to me as I fellowship with the Spirit, and the Word today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. FURTHER STUDY James 1:3(Amp) Be assured and understand that the trial and proving of your faith bring out endurance and steadfastness and patience. 1Corinthians 13:13(Amp) And so faith, hope, love abide [faith-- conviction and belief respecting man’s relation to God and divine things; hope-- joyful and confident expectation of eternal salvation; love--true affection for God and man, growing out of God’s love for and in us], these three; but the greatest of these is love. Galatians 5:6(Amp) For [if we are] in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith activated and energized and expressed and working through love. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING 1 Year Bible Reading Plan Luke 4:14-44 Deuteronomy 22-24 2 Year Bible Reading Plan Romans 2:1-11 Psalm 90 |
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Jesus Is Recruiting - Interested?
Matthew 9:37 - Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few. Dear Reader, Jesus Christ, the best Employer of all times (in Heaven and on Earth) is recruiting. He has noticed, as stated in the opening verse, that there is obvious shortage of manpower for the best job in the world – evangelism! The harvest is plenty, but the labourers are few! Jesus’ job description is the simplest I have ever seen - Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15). Simple. The sweetest thing about this job is that it does not necessarily require you to quit your present job as you can be employed part-time and still receive full time salaries and benefits! Wow! How about the pay package and benefits? You bet it is simply incomparable! What other job guarantees you superb salaries and benefits in this world as well as a blissful and glorious life in the world to come? Mark 10:29 - And Jesus answered and said, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my sake, and the gospel's, But he shall receive an hundredfold now in this time, houses, and brethren, and sisters, and mothers, and children, and lands, with persecutions; and in the world to come eternal life. Finally, the only condition required for this job is that you must be born again! If you are, then no c.v is required! Just go ahead and start winning souls and saving lives! Jesus Christ is a reliable Employer that does not cheat His employees. He will record all your work and repay you appropriately as at when due! Are you interested and do you know anybody that might be interested? |
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Topic:
Evident Success
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Evident Success - Friday, March 21st, 2014
– Pastor Anita Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all (1 Timothy 4:15). God's desire for you isn't just that you make progress and become successful in life, He wants your progress to be obvious to those around you. He wants you to have evident success. The Bible says of Isaac, "And the man waxed great, and went forward, and grew until he became very great. For he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him" (Genesis 26:13-14). Isaac prospered exceedingly in a land that was devastated by a severe famine. His prosperity was so profound it got the attention of the Philistines. That's the kind of success He's planned for you; one that's undeniable. The reason Isaac recorded such phenomenal progress and prosperity is shown to us in Scripture: He often took time to meditate (Genesis 24:63). In our opening verse the Apostle Paul said to Timothy, "Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all." This instruction, as well as the ensuing result, is also for you. Meditating on the scriptures will give you evident success in all endeavours: "This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success" (Joshua 1:8). God doesn't bless you in a corner; rather, He wants the whole world to see what He's done for you. Take out time to meditate on the Word today; that's the recipe He's given us for good success and unending prosperity. Prayer: Dear Father, I thank you for giving me a life of continuous progress and prosperity through the Word. My path in life is as a shining light that shines brighter and brighter unto the perfect day. Thank you for the impact of your Word in my spirit today, and your wisdom that works in me to know and do your will, in Jesus' Name. Amen. Further Study: Acts 20:32: 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. Psalm 1:1-3: Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper. 1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 4:1-13, Deuteronomy 18-21 2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 1:24-32, Psalm 89 |
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Topic:
LIFE IS SPIRITUAL
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Breakfast is served;
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES DEVOTIONAL THURSDAY, MARCH 20TH PASTOR CHRIS OYAKHILOME LIFE IS SPIRITUAL Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. (Colossians 3:16). Human life is controlled from the realm of the spirit, and to remain ignorant of that is to fool oneself. Whether we're conscious or ignorant of the laws that exist in that realm makes no difference; they'll work either for you or against you, just as natural laws. The law of gravity, for example, will work for or against you, depending on your application of or relation to it. Your life is dependent on your right application of spiritual laws, for life is spiritual. There're people who, after leading nations and building successful careers, were reduced to nothing because Satan got a hold of them. If only they had recognized that life is spiritual! The Bible says, "(For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ" (2 Corinthians 10:4-5). The strongholds described above aren't metal barriers or walls; they're ideas in people's heads, and theories they've accepted in life that have kept them from moving in the direction of God's dream and destiny for them. Those ideas were built into their minds by satanic forces. That's why some people will reject tithing, and refuse to pay their tithes even though they've heard about the blessings and the fulfilment of the promises of God for the one who pays his tithes. Those strongholds can only be pulled down by the power of God's Spirit, and His Word. In Psalm 119:66, the Psalmist said, "Teach me good judgment and knowledge: for I have believed thy commandments." He knew that believing the commandments wasn't enough, and so he asked the Lord to teach him good judgment, which is akin to spiritual knowledge. He asked to be granted the wisdom to discern the principles of the spirit realm, to know what is of God and what isn't of God. Make rich deposits of the Word in your spirit, through study and meditation. Colossians 3:16 says, "Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord." This is a vital key to living successfully and navigating your way gloriously through life. C O N F E S S I O N The Word of God is my light and my life. Through the word, I live successfully and navigate through life victoriously. I'm set on the course of glory and excellence, making progress by the power of the spirit! Halleluiah. F U R T H E R S T U D Y Hebrews 4:12-13(KJV) 12 For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. 13 Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do. (Amp) 12. For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing, and effective]; it is sharper than any two-edged sword, penetrating to the dividing line of the breath of life (soul) and [the immortal] spirit, and of joints and marrow [of the deepest parts of our nature], exposing and sifting and analyzing and judging the very thoughts and purposes of the heart. 13. And not a creature exists that is concealed from His sight, but all things are open and exposed, naked and defenseless to the eyes of Him with Whom we have to do. DAILY SCRIPTURE READING 1 Year Bible Reading Plan Luke 3:1-38 Deuteronomy 16-17 2 Year Bible Reading Plan Romans 1:13-23 Psalm 87-88 |
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Topic:
Relax, It’s Still Your Year!
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Relax, It’s Still Your Year!
“A land which the LORD thy God careth for: the eyes of the LORD thy God are always upon it, from the beginning of the year even unto the end of the year” (Deuteronomy 11:12). The first half of the year will be glorious The second half of the year will be victorious Because He has and will always be there Because He has and will always care. Even if it is tough in January Even if it is rough in February He will surprise you before October And you will be dancing by December. He is your beginning and end. He is your ever-present friend. He’s the same now and forever. He’s in you wherever, forever. You may collide with forces Yet, you’ll outrun horses. Surely, the year will be fruitful. Definitely, it will be so yieldful. Welcome to the morning of your life! Jeremiah 17:8 says, [In that year, Michael Ogbaa – you can change it to your name if you wish] shall be as a tree planted by the waters, and that spreadeth out her roots by the river, and shall not see when heat cometh, but [every aspect of Michael Ogbaa’s life] shall be green; and [Michael Ogbaa] shall not be careful in the year of drought, neither shall cease from yielding fruit. |
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Topic:
The Word In Your Mouth
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The Word In Your Mouth - Wednesday
March 19th, 2014 - Pastor Chris For verily I say unto you, That whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass; he shall have whatsoever he saith (Mark 11:23). On a certain day, while Jesus and His disciples were returning from Bethany, He was hungry. Seeing a fig tree afar off, He moved closer, hoping to find some figs. However, when He got to the tree, He found only leaves, because it wasn't yet the season for figs. Jesus then said to the fig tree, "...No one shall ever eat figs from you again..." (Mark 11:14 GNB). The latter part says, "And His disciples heard it"; they heard when Jesus cursed the fig tree. The next day, as they passed by, the disciples observed that the fig tree had withered away. Peter, remembering what happened the previous day, said to Him, "...Master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away" (Mark 11:21). Responding, the Master said, "Have the faith of God" or "Have the God- kind of faith" (Mark 11:22). The God-kind of faith is the faith that believes in the heart and speaks accordingly. Jesus taught us the power and importance of the spoken word—the Word in your mouth. In the Old Testament, God said to Moses, "...speak ye unto the rock before their eyes; and it shall give forth his water, and thou shalt bring forth to them water out of the rock: so thou shalt give the congregation and their beasts drink" (Numbers 20:8). Therefore, the underlying theme of Mark 11:23 is, "You shall have what you say." Jesus was teaching the power of the spoken word, not about mountains or problems. When you speak in faith your words come to pass. This is akin to what the Apostle Paul said in Romans 10:8-10, showing us the principle of salvation. When someone believes in his heart and makes the same declarations, announcements, or proclamations of faith, he's immediately catapulted into the realms of salvation: "But what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation." PRAYER: Dear heavenly Father, thank you for I know that through my faith-filled words, I can create whatsoever I desire. Through the power and influence of your Word which is growing mightily and prevailing in my life, I declare that I walk in divine health, protection, peace and prosperity, in the Name of Jesus. Amen. Further Study: Romans 10:8-10: 1 Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 2:21-52, Deuteronomy 13-15 2 Year Bible Reading Plan: Romans 1:1-12, Psalm 85-86 |
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