OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – FRIDAY – 27/02/2015 – WEARING A MASK? – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

WEARING A MASK?

Memorise

Be merciful unto me, O Lord: for I cry unto thee daily.

Psalm 86:3

Read

Psalm 88:1-9

1 O LORD God of my salvation, I have cried day and night before thee:

2 Let my prayer come before thee: incline thine ear unto my cry;

3 For my soul is full of troubles: and my life draweth nigh unto the grave.

4 I am counted with them that go down into the pit: I am as a man that hath no strength:

5 Free among the dead, like the slain that lie in the grave, whom thou rememberest no more: and they are cut off from thy hand.

6 Thou hast laid me in the lowest pit, in darkness, in the deeps.

7 Thy wrath lieth hard upon me, and thou hast afflicted me with all thy waves. Selah.

8 Thou hast put away mine acquaintance far from me; thou hast made me an abomination unto them: I am shut up, and I cannot come forth.

9 Mine eye mourneth by reason of affliction: LORD, I have called daily upon thee, I have stretched out my hands unto thee.

MESSAGE

A mask is a full or partial cover for the face. It is used for disguised; to hide a person’s true identity, character or intentions away from being known or noticed. Also, the word “mask” could refer to a lifestyle that hides the real personality and emotions of a person. Putting on a mask portrays a hidden agenda, falsehood, hypocrisy, pretence, deception and double-mindedness. These are terms that should never be used to qualify a Christian or any action taken by a person who professes to be born-again.

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”

Philippians 4:8

God expects His children to be truthful and honest in all things. Our utterances, outward appearance and the testimony about us should be a reflection of the inward person in us. Our “yes” should be yes and our “no” should be no. children of God should know how to speak the truth without hypocrisy (1 Timothy 4:2). Living a life of pretence is bad for many reasons, but the effect is more pronounced in prayers. When a person outwardly pretends to be born-again, holy, righteous, rich, happy and fulfilled, the inward man remains fully aware of the real situation and will find it very difficult to pray. Most importantly, James 1:6-8 confirms that God will never answer such prayers.

“For let not that man think that he shall receive any thing of the Lord.”
James 1:7

The fathers and mothers of faith recorded in the Bible succeeded because they lived honest lives. From Bible accounts, Abraham, Moses, Elijah and David were very open and honest even in their mistakes. King David confessed his sins and cried to God for help and assistance. It is time to remove every mask and be sincere with God. Approach the throne of grace with genuine repentance and make your request known to God with all honesty. I prophecy that every request you make today will surely turn to a testimony in the Name of Jesus.

Prayer Point

Father, please destroy the root of hypocrisy, pretence and deception in my life in Jesus’ Name.

Bible in one year

Ezekiel 21-22,
Revelation 8:1-12

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – FRIDAY – 27/02/2015 – WEARING A MASK? – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – THURSDAY– 26/02/2015 – LAMENTATION AS PRAISE – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

LAMENTATION AS PRAISE

Memorise

For his anger endureth but a moment; in his favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.

Psalm 30:5

Read

Psalm 30:7-12

7 LORD, by thy favour thou hast made my mountain to stand strong: thou didst hide thy face, and I was troubled.

8 I cried to thee, O LORD; and unto the LORD I made supplication.

9 What profit is there in my blood, when I go down to the pit? Shall the dust praise thee? shall it declare thy truth?

10 Hear, O LORD, and have mercy upon me: LORD, be thou my helper.

11 Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness;

12 To the end that my glory may sing praise to thee, and not be silent. O LORD my God, I will give thanks unto thee for ever.

Bible in One Year

Ezekiel 19-20
Revelation 7

MESSAGE

A lamentation is a song mourning or sorrow. In the Bible, lamentations were usually motivated by national disasters (2 Chronicles 35:25), by bereavement (2 Samuel 3:33-34), personal suffering (Psalm 102:1-11) or by the judgment of God (Amos 5:1-2). Lamentations could also be inspired by repentance as shown in Daniel 9:4-20.

A lamentation can contain praise of express thanksgiving and gratitude to the Almighty God. Such was the lamentation of Daniel in Daniel 9. It was laced with praises to God even though He was mourning the captivity of the children of Israel. No wonder the Lord heard his lamentation and quickly dispatched an archangel to conform him. Jesus in Matthew 5:4 said:

“Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.”

This reveals that there is blessedness even in mourning. There is still a reason to glorify God for His goodness and His mercy even in morning. It shows that though there is lamentation, there will be clear reasons to praise God at the end. Singing songs of sorrow can therefore lead to comfort.

An example of sorrow leading to comfort is seen when we lament for our sins, mistakes and errors in such a way that leads to genuine repentance. Such repentance leads to righteousness.

“Now I rejoice, not that ye were made sorry, but that ye sorrowed to repentance: for ye were made sorry after a godly manner, that ye might receive damage by us in nothing. For godly sorrow worketh repentance to salvation not to be repented of: but the sorrow of the world worketh death.”
2 Corinthians 7:9-10

In the above passage, the lamentation and sorrow of the Corinthians led to repentance. Paul rejoiced to see this genuine repentance take place in the life of the people. Godly sorrow brings repentance unto salvation. What started as lamentation or a song of sorrow, produced reasons to praise God at the end. Lamentation becomes a source of praise when godly sorrow produces genuine repentance. Such repentance leads to the joy of salvation, divine approval and blessing.

Prayer Point

Father, let your Church experience godly sorrow that leads to genuine repentance in Jesus’ Name.

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – THURSDAY– 26/02/2015 – LAMENTATION AS PRAISE – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – WEDNESDAY– 25/02/2015 – THE BLESSING OF THANKSGIVING – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

THE BLESSING OF THANKSGIVING

Memorise

It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High:

 Psalm 92:1

Read

Luke 17:11-19 KJv

11 And it came to pass, as he went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee.

12 And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off:

13 And they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.

14 And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.

15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God,

16 And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.

17 And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?

18 There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.

19 And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.

MESSAGE

Thanksgiving to God, especially for gifts and blessings received, is required and expected. God abhors ungrateful people. God expects Christians to give thanks in all circumstances they are confronted with. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18, Apostle Paul wrote that:

“In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you.”

Our Lord Jesus Christ also demonstrated to us the essence of thanksgiving. Several times, He gave thanks to the Father (John 11:41, Matthew 15:36, Luke 22:17).

God wants His children to thank Him and show gratitude for everything that happens in their lives. We are to thank God when we are full and when we are empty. We are to continuously show appreciation for the many things we normally take for granted. Our willingness to thank God should not be based on our mood, i.e. whether we are happy or not. It should not be based only on the things we receive and recognise as gifts and blessings; we should also thank God for the miracle of sleeping and waking up, for the gift of life, for the salvation of our souls and for divine health. Thank God for the ability to use every part of your body; that you can eat, drink, see, walk, speak, learn and interact with people. Thank God because no matter what you are going through, you are still better off in certain areas compared to some other people on the face of the earth.

Thanksgiving to God can be expressed in several different ways. However, offering thanksgiving to God in an acceptable manner guarantees an immediate response from God. Solomon chose to give a thousand burnt offerings (2 Chronicles 1:6), one of the lepers in our Bible text fell down and glorified God with a loud voice (Luke 17:15-16), while David showed gratitude in song and with dancing (2 Samuel 6:14). God responded to Solomon by giving him a blank cheque to ask for anything he wanted. The leper had a partial healing at first, but Jesus made him completely whole after he offered thanks. God was pleased with David and He established his throne forever. Each of these three received a blessing from God that was irreversible. I pray therefore that as you praise and thank the Lord for His goodness and mercy over you over your life, you will receive irreversible blessing from Him in Jesus’ Name.

Prayer Point

Father, please give me a heart of gratitude and put on me the garment of thanksgiving.

Bible in One Year
Ezekiel 17-18
Revelation 6:3-1

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – WEDNESDAY– 25/02/2015 – THE BLESSING OF THANKSGIVING – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – MONDAY– 23/02/2015 – WORSHIPPING THE UNKNOWN GOD – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

POWER IN HIS NAME

Memorise

Give unto the LORD the glory due unto his name; worship the LORD in the beauty of holiness.

Psalm 29:2

Read

Philippians 2:9-11

9  Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:   

10  That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;   

11  And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father. 

Message

One of the first things that a genuinely born-again Christian will quickly recognise about the Christian experience is the fact that there is power in the Name of Jesus. Immediately a fellow accepts Jesus as Lord and Saviour, the powers that used to manipulate and control things in the person’s life become paralysed as he or she begins to call upon the Name of the Lord. This is simply because all power belongs to Jesus (Matthew 28:18), and He has deposited so much of this power in His Name. Seldom do you have the Lord making the same statement twice at one instance, but He did this with regard to His Name in John 14:13-14, saying:

 

“And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.”

At the mention of the Name of Jesus, irrespective of the environment or circumstance, every knee shall bow in heaven, on earth and under the earth (Philippians 2:10-11). The power in the Name of Jesus is so potent and active that there is no limitation whatsoever to what you can achieve through the application of the Name. The dead has come alive by the Name, sorrow has been turned to joy in many lives by the Name, and the Name has brought salvation to billions of souls.

The Name of Jesus carries supreme authority and unlimited power. Having understood this truth, you ought to praise His Name at all times and deploy the power in His Name against all challenges and circumstances you are confronted with. A certain man caught the revelation of the power in the Name of Jesus even before His death and resurrection, and he deployed it. He was not even one of the disciples who were with Jesus or among those who followed Jesus at all times. Yet, he understood the power in the Name of Jesus and he took advantage of it. Mark 9:38-39 says:

 

“And John answered him, saying, Master, we saw one casting out devils in thy name, and he followeth not us: and we forbad him, because he followeth not us. But Jesus said, Forbid him not: for there is no man which shall do a miracle in my name, that can lightly speak evil of me.”

 

The power in the Name of Jesus will do you no good if you do not apply it. As you call upon the Name of Jesus today, may the potent power in His Name work for you in Jesus’ Name. 

Action Point

Praise the power in the Name of Jesus and then hold Him to His word by asking for your heart’s desire in His Name.

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – TUESDAY– 24/02/2015 – POWER IN HIS NAME – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Monday, 23 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – MONDAY– 23/02/2015 – WORSHIPPING THE UNKNOWN GOD – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

WORSHIPPING THE UNKNOWN GOD

Memorise

Ye worship ye know not what: we know what we worship: for salvation is of the Jews.

 John 4:22

Read

Acts 17:16-23

16 Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was stirred in him, when he saw the city wholly given to idolatry.

17 Therefore disputed he in the synagogue with the Jews, and with the devout persons, and in the market daily with them that met with him.

18 Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection.

19 And they took him, and brought him unto Areopagus, saying, May we know what this new doctrine, whereof thou speakest, is?

20 For thou bringest certain strange things to our ears: we would know therefore what these things mean. 21 (For all the Athenians and strangers which were there spent their time in nothing else, but either to tell, or to hear some new thing.)

22 Then Paul stood in the midst of Mars’ hill, and said, Ye men of Athens, I perceive that in all things ye are too superstitious.

23 For as I passed by, and beheld your devotions, I found an altar with this inscription, TO THE UNKNOWN GOD. Whom therefore ye ignorantly worship, him declare I unto you.

MESSAGE

Apostle Paul was taking a walk through the old city of Athens as a visitor when he noticed an altar with this inscription: ‘TO THE UNKNOWN GOD’. Paul was aware that Athens at that particular period was filled with philosophers of either epicurean beliefs or those of stoic principles. Epicureans were devoted to sensual pleasure. They have sensitive tastes, expecially in food and wine, and they loved to enjoy the good things of life. On the other hand, Stoics were professedly indifferent to pleasure or pain, free from passion,unmoved by Joy or grief and submissive to the natural law.

These philosophers prided themselves as custodians of exceptional of wisdom and knowledge in all areas of life including issues about God and religion. When they met Apostle Paul, being persuaded of their superior wisdom, they were quick to ask “What will this babbler say?” However, their folly was already evident in this inscription. This story still rings true today. Because knowledge has greatly increased all over the world, scientists and philosophers proudly try to impose their limited mortal theories as superior to the knowledge of the Almighty God. However, like the Athenians of Paul’s days, these are genuine seekers among today’s scientists and philosophers, who will readily accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour and submit to the authority of the Scriptures if the right opportunity is made available to them.

The truth is: God is spiritual being. His existence cannot be investigated or proved scientifically; neither can He be searched out through philosophical investigations. Therefore, God can only be known by faith, through the revelation knowledge made available by the gospel of Jesus Christ (Luke 10:22). And more importantly, the whole Bible provides extremely convincing factual evidence that God exists and that Jesus Christ Is the son of the Living God (Colossians 1:15-17) It is therefore time to expose the error of the unknown God and begin to propagate a more perfect knowledge of the Living God. We must use every available opportunity to reach the world with the message of gospel of Jesus Christ. It is the power of God unto salvation. It is the sure way to forgiveness, deliverance, healing, peace, joy and prosperity. Remember, time is short. Begin to vigorously propagate the gospel today, and great rewards will accrue to your account here on earth and in heaven in Jesus’ Name.

Prayer Point

Father, please grant me the grace to be an addicted soul winner in Jesus’ Name.

Bible in one year

Ezekiel 13-15,
Revelation 4

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – MONDAY– 23/02/2015 – WORSHIPPING THE UNKNOWN GOD – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Sunday, 22 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – SUNDAY– 22/02/2015 – THE LETHAL WEAPON OF WAR – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

THE LETHAL WEAPON OF WAR

Memorise

And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one’s bands were loosed.

Act 16:25-26

Read

2 Chronicles 20:21-23 KJV 

21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the LORD, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the LORD; for his mercy endureth for ever.

22 And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten.

23 For the children of Ammon and Moab stood up against the inhabitants of mount Seir, utterly to slay and destroy them: and when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, every one helped to destroy another.

MESSAGE

In today’s reading, the Bible clearly presents worship as a lethal weapon of war. Here, three powerful nations rose up against Israel in battle. Knowing that they could not match their enemies in physical warfare, King Jehoshaphat appointed singers unto the Lord, and they went before the army to praise the beauty of God’s holiness (2 Chronicles 20:21).

When they began to sing and praise God, suddenly, worship turned into a lethal weapon of war, and the Lord decided to waylay the armies of their enemies. As you praise and worship the Lord today, your worship will work against your detractors as a lethal weapon of war in the Name of Jesus. Another example of worship as a lethal weapon of war took place in Joshua 6. After the Israelites got to Jericho, they were confronted by its mighty wall that seemed impossible to breakthrough. Jericho was shut in; the only available option therefore was to mount a siege that could last for months. However, the people shouted a great shout after the priests blew the trumpet, and the wall of Jericho fell down flat (Joshua 6:20). Again, in the Name that is above all other names, I command everything that represents the wall of Jericho in your life to fall down flat before you.

I have always maintained that if you are faced with a challenge of any kind and you have fasted, you have prayed, and done all that you can do without getting any appreciable result, it’s time to try praise and worship. Worship has proved to be a very potent weapon of warfare in many cases where everything else appeared to be ineffective. Whenever a child of God begins to praise His holy Name and hail Him as the Alpha and Omega, King of kings, Lord of lords, I Am that I Am, Mighty Man in battle, Lord of hosts, Omnipotent God, Omniscient God, Jehovah Nissi, Jehovah Shalom, the Present Help in the time of trouble, Ancient of Days, the Almighty etc, He responds immediately, because He cannot deny Himself. Such was the experience of Paul and Silas in Acts 16:25-26. The Bible states that they prayed first and nothing seemed to happen, but when they started singing, suddenly, there was a great earthquake. Today, your worship will become a lethal weapon against your problems and challenges in the Name of Jesus.

Key Point

If you dare to take your worship to a higher level, you will surely reap higher rewards.

Bible in One Year

Ezekiel 10-12,
Revelation 3:7-22

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – SUNDAY– 22/02/2015 – THE LETHAL WEAPON OF WAR – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Saturday, 21 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – SATURDAY– 21/02/2015 – PRACTICAL WORSHIP: DANCING – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

PRACTICAL WORSHIP: DANCING

Memorise

Let them praise his name in the dance: let them sing praises unto him with the timbrel and harp.

Psalm 149:3

Read

Psalm 103:1-5 KJV

1 Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name.

2 Bless the LORD, O my soul, and forget not all his benefits:

3 Who forgiveth all thine iniquities; who healeth all thy diseases;

4 Who redeemeth thy life from destruction; who crowneth thee with lovingkindness and tender mercies;

5 Who satisfieth thy mouth with good things; so that thy youth is renewed like the eagle’s.

MESSAGE

We can worship God in various ways and manners. It is possible to worship God in song, dance and even in silence. However, throughout the Bible, practical worship is the preferred mode of worship whenever God does something great for His people. On the day God miraculously delivered Israel from Pharaoh and the Egyptian army, the people practically worshipped God with songs and dancing (Exodus 15:1&20). After each victory or manifestation of the signs and wonders of God in the wilderness, the Israelites always responded with shouts of joy accompanied with singing and dancing. Moses, Hannah, David, the women of Israel and even the prophets at different times in history composed various songs to glorify the Name of the Lord. It is clear from all of these cases that practical worship, also known as the sacrifice of praise, always begins with the fruit of the lips. Hebrew 13:15 says:

“By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.”

A good example of practical worship is found in Exodus 15. After the deliverance of Israel at the Red Sea, the Bible says that Moses and Miriam composed songs (the fruit of their lips) which led to the use of timbrels and dancing. In another example, Chenaniah and choir master and the singers of Israel were singing high praises to the Lord with the national orchestra. This resulted in King David and all of Israel shouting and leaping to the praise of the Most High God (1 Chronicles 15:27-29).

These who have been with the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) over the years know that one of the secrets of our success is practical worship. I am so addicted to practical worship that from my early days in the ministry, I was nicknamed the dancing pastor. The RCCG is known to be a singing and dancing Church. Many have also identified us as a shouting Church. It is therefore because of our disposition to practical worship that God has been so wonderful to us. The Lord is good. More than ever before, He is worthy of our praise this year. For His love and mercy, for His countless miracles, for His signs and wonders, we need to appreciate Him. Go ahead and give Him practical worship in songs and dance throughout today. As you worship Him today, may He multiply His blessing in your life Jesus’ Name.

Key Point

You must become an addicted worshipper to receive the best from God

Bible in One Year

Ezekiel 7-9
Revelation 2:18-3:6

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – SATURDAY– 21/02/2015 – PRACTICAL WORSHIP: DANCING – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Friday, 20 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – FRIDAY– 20/02/2015 – CHRISTIAN ATHEIST – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

CHRISTIAN ATHEIST

Memorise

Love not the world, neither the things that are in the world. If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him. 

John 2:15

Read

2 Timothy 3:1-5,

1 This know also, that in the last days perilous times shall come.

2 For men shall be lovers of their own selves, covetous, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy,

3 Without natural affection, trucebreakers, false accusers, incontinent, fierce, despisers of those that are good,

4 Traitors, heady, highminded, lovers of pleasures more than lovers of God;

5 Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof: from such turn away.

MESSAGE:

Our Bible reading today reveals some strange characteristics of the last days that should in no wise be mentioned among children of God. Unfortunately, many of these behaviours dominate the Church today. Frankly speaking, behaviours such as being a lover of self, blaspheming, being unholy, treachery and loving of pleasures beyond loving God, more accurately described ungodly people (atheists). But because professed Christians are found among those who openly manifest and defend such behaviours today, the designation “Christian Atheists” has become necessary. Christian atheists are therefore professing Christians who believe, act and defend behaviours and characteristics that are contrary to Christian values as recorded in the Bible.

The most noticeable error of a Christian atheist is commitment to the philosophy and ways of the world. They profess to be Christians but find it easy to identify with the world in principle, word, action and general worldview. This is contrary to the word of God in James 4:4 that says,

“Ye adulterers and adulteresses, know ye not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God.”

And the admonition of Titus 2:12

“Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world;”

Furthermore, preoccupation with the things of this world is incompatible with holy living. The commitment of the Christian atheist to the world is especially seen in the area of materialism and worldliness, which the word of God warns against in 1 John 2:15. This commitment of the world leads to disappointment, failure, physical and spiritual loss, and ultimately God’s judgment (Luke 9:25, Ephesians 5:6). Perilous times are here! The right attitude to take in times as these is to heed the admonition of the word of God in Romans 12:1-2, by resisting the temptation to conform to the standards of this world. Rather, we should seek to be transformed into the image of Christ by the renewing of our minds.

Prayer Point

Father, please expose every atheistic tendency in the body of Christ and rid your Church of all contrary behaviours in Jesus’ Name.

Bible in one year

Ezekiel 4-6,

Revelation 2:1-17

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – FRIDAY– 20/02/2015 – CHRISTIAN ATHEIST – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Thursday, 19 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – THURSDAY– 19/02/2015 – PERFECT KNOWLEDGE OF GOD – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

PERFECT KNOWLEDGE OF GOD

Memorise

Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them.

Romans 1:19

Read

Matthew 11:25-27 KJV

25 At that time Jesus answered and said, I thank thee, O Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because thou hast hid these things from the wise and prudent, and hast revealed them unto babes.

26 Even so, Father: for so it seemed good in thy sight.

27 All things are delivered unto me of my Father: and no man knoweth the Son, but the Father; neither knoweth any man the Father, save the Son, and he to whomsoever the Son will reveal him.

MESSAGE

The scriptures make it clear that it is possible to acquire the knowledge of God. As a matter of fact, God has systematically and painstakingly revealed Himself to humanity through nature and through the Bible. The Bible teaches that God can be known, and that it is possible to have the perfect knowledge of God through Jesus Christ His Son. Our Lord Jesus revealed that eternal life lies in knowing God and the person of Jesus Christ (John 17:3).

Many people conclude in error that God cannot be known because He is beyond human imagination. It must be admitted that God cannot be fathomed by the imagination of man. We cannot form a mental image of the infinite and eternal God. It is for this reason that God sent us His only begotten Son, so that by beholding Him, we might understand the nature and the character of God. Jesus came to give us the perfect knowledge of God. Hear what Jesus said to Philip in response to his request for a revelation of the Father in John 14:9:

“Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?”

Having the perfect knowledge of God does not imply having a complete and exhaustive knowledge of Him. It does not mean knowing all of His essence, nature and attributes. Simply put, God is past finding out, but we can know Him by faith to the extent that He has revealed of Himself in His Son and through the Scriptures.

No man knows the Father except the Son and whomever the Son shall reveal Him to (Luke 10:22). Jesus is the incarnate Word of God and the manifestation of His person and glory (Hebrews 1:3). Accepting Jesus as Master, Lord and Saviour is a necessary first step towards knowing God Almighty. ACCEPTING JESUS INTO YOUR LIFE TODAY! Daniel 11:32 makes it clear that the people who do know their God shall be strong and do exploits. I therefore decree in the Name that is above all other names, that as you endeavour to have the perfect knowledge of God through the diligent study of His word, you will receive the power to do exploits physically, spiritually, materially and financially in Jesus’ Name.

Key Point

The knowledge of God produces righteousness that brings salvation, peace, joy, and prosperity.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Ezekiel 1-3
Revelation 1

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – THURSDAY– 19/02/2015 – PERFECT KNOWLEDGE OF GOD – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Wednesday, 18 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – WEDNESDAY– 18/02/2015 – WORTHY SERVICE – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

WORTHY SERVICE

Memorise

I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
Romans 12:1

Read

1 Samuel 15:22-23 KJV

22 And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.

23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, and stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.

MESSAGE

Service is work done for the benefit of other people or as a form of worship of God. Service characterised the essence of the ministry of Jesus and it is at the core of discipleship. Service means to work, to labour or to minister. According to our memory verse for today, service must meet certain conditions in order to be considered worthy and acceptable to God. First of all, mere correct religions observance is inadequate; rather, a wholehearted commitment to God in total submission and obedience is required. It is in this regard that Deuteronomy 10:12-13 says,

“And now, Israel, what doth the LORD thy God requires of thee, but to fear the LORD they God, to walk in all his ways, and to love him, and to serve the LORD thy God with all thy heart and with all thy soul, To keep the commandments of the LORD, and his statutes, which I command thee this day for thy good?”

Furthermore, Amos 5:22-24 tells us that except service is rendered in holiness and righteousness, our persons, prayers, expensive offerings, noise of songs and the melody of musical instruments would mean nothing of God.

Secondly, total compliance with instructions in the word of God is required in service. In the case of Saul in 1 Samuel 15:22-23, because of his half or partial obedience, God labelled him with rebellion and witchcraft. It was recorded against him that he rejected the word of the Lord, and he was punished for it. May you never incur the wrath of God in Jesus’ Name. The Almighty God will find your service worthy and acceptable in His sight in Jesus’ Name.

Service to God must come from a willing heart, with gladness, reverence and godly fear (Hebrews 12:28). The Lord is the Alpha and Omega, the Bishop of our soul, our Maker, Saviour, and Redeemer. We owe Him our lives. There is nothing we can offer in service to God that will be too much. Service to God is highly rewarding; offer Him quality service today.

“Serve the LORD with gladness: come before his presence with singing. Know ye that the LORD he is God: it is he that hath made us, and not we ourselves; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture.”
Psalm 100:2-3

Prayer Point:

Father, help me to identify and take care of a need in your kingdom in Jesus’ Name.

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – WEDNESDAY– 18/02/2015 – WORTHY SERVICE – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Tuesday, 17 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – TUESDAY– 17/02/2015 – WORTHY WORSHIP? – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

WORTHY WORSHIP?

Memorise

But the hour cometh and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him. God is a spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.

John 4:23-24

Read

Revelation 5:11-14 KJV

11 And I beheld, and I heard the voice of many angels round about the throne and the beasts and the elders: and the number of them was ten thousand times ten thousand, and thousands of thousands;

12 Saying with a loud voice, Worthy is the Lamb that was slain to receive power, and riches, and wisdom, and strength, and honour, and glory, and blessing.

13 And every creature which is in heaven, and on the earth, and under the earth, and such as are in the sea, and all that are in them, heard I saying, Blessing, and honour, and glory, and power, be unto him that sitteth upon the throne, and unto the Lamb for ever and ever.

14 And the four beasts said, Amen. And the four and twenty elders fell down and worshipped him that liveth for ever and ever.

MESSAGE

The first to learn about worthy worship is that worship should be in accordance to the commandments of God, but it should not be mechanical. In other words, obedience must precede any act of worship and it and it must come from the depth of our being. 1 Samuel 15:22 says,

“And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than fat of rams.”

After worshipper who is not living in obedience to the word of God worships in vain. Of such are Christians who call Jesus “Lord, Lord”, but fail to do the will of God. Their effort is fruitless and their act of worship does not move God. You will not worship God in vain in Jesus’ Name.

Any act of worship that is mechanical, devoid of true love, faith, reverent adoration, honour and praise to the Almighty God will not be acceptable. Worship that is worthy and acceptable to God must be offered in spirit and in truth; it must be offered wholeheartedly and with total submission to the will of God. In Matthew 22:37, Jesus enjoined us to love the Lord with all our heart, soul and might; this means that worthy worship requires putting in everything we have. The right attitude is required for our worship to be counted worthy and acceptable to God. The first step is to carry out a self-examination to be sure that our heart is right with God (1 Corinthians 11:28). Then we are to carefully follow the footsteps of David in 2 Samuel 12:20a:

“Then David arose from the earth, and washed, and anointed himself, and changed his apparel, and came into the house of the LORD, and worshipped:”

David got up from the earth; this means he separated himself from earthy things. Next, he washed up to properly cleanse himself from every form of dirt and iniquity. He proceeded to anoint himself and change his filthy garments to that of holiness and righteousness. Only then did he have the confidence to enter the presence of God and was able to worship God without any hindrance. As you approach the presence of God today, your worship will be counted worthy and acceptable before Him in Jesus’ Name.

Prayer Point

Father, let the blessings of worthy and acceptable worship be mine today in Jesus’ Name.

Bible in one year

Lamentations 1-2,
Acts 27:33-28:10

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – TUESDAY– 17/02/2015 – WORTHY WORSHIP? – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Sunday, 15 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – SUNDAY– 15/02/2015 – GOD'S TIMETABLE – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

GOD’S TIMETABLE

Memorise

To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven.

Ecclesiastes 3:1

Read

Ecclesiastes 3:1-8

1 To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;

3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;

4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;

5 A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing;

6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;

7 A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

8 A time to love, and a time to hate; a time of war, and a time of peace.

MESSAGE

Today’s reading makes it clear that God has a timetable. Obviously, this timetable is tied to a heavenly calendar. The Lord in His infinite wisdom designed the heavens and the earth, and He allotted times and seasons to every plan and purpose. There is some truth to the quote from Shakespeare which says the entire world is a stage. The world began in Genesis and has closely followed the pattern of a drama. The timing of every act, the duration of each scene and the role of each actor strictly follows a divine script written by God Himself. Therefore, there is a time to be born, a time to laugh, a time for war and a time to die. There is a time for salvation, deliverance, and judgment. Also, there is an appointed time for the rise and fall of individuals and nations of the world.

In God’s timetable, there is a time for favour. When the time to favour you comes, you will receive divine intervention like Daniel in the lion’s den. Favour will locate you like David in the wilderness; a higher authority will become interested in your case like Joseph in prison, and all your prayers will be answered. I therefore pray in the Name that is above all other names that your time of favour shall come speedily. When your time of favour comes, the word of God in Romans 8:28 will become reality in your life.

“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

Moreover, in God’s timetable, there is a time for the fulfilment of prophecy. To be destined for such a glorious position in the agenda of the Almighty God is not a general gift and not by accident. It is usually for a purpose – a divine purpose. When your time of fulfilment of prophecy comes as experienced by Abraham, Jacob, Israel, Joseph, Joshua, Esther, David and Jesus of Nazareth, God will suspend natural laws and break protocols for your sake. He will make ways for you where there is no way. He will make connect you to your destiny–helpers, and your journey to success will be accelerated. May the time for fulfilment of prophecy come quickly in your life in Jesus’ Name.

Prayer point

Father, please let my time of special favour and accelerated fulfilment of prophecy come speedily in Jesus’ Name.

Bible in One Year

Jeremiah 51:1-51
Acts 26:24-27:12

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – SUNDAY– 15/02/2015 – GOD'S TIMETABLE – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Saturday, 14 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – SATURDAY– 14/02/2015 – FAITH WITHOUT WORKS – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

FAITH WITHOUT WORKS

Memorise

But without faith it is impossible to please him: for he that cometh to God must believe that he is, and that he is a rewarder of them that diligently seek him.
Hebrews 11:6

Read

James 2:14-17 KJV

14 What doth it profit, my brethren, though a man say he hath faith, and have not works? can faith save him?

15 If a brother or sister be naked, and destitute of daily food,

16 And one of you say unto them, Depart in peace, be ye warmed and filled; notwithstanding ye give them not those things which are needful to the body; what doth it profit?

17 Even so faith, if it hath not works, is dead, being alone.

MESSAGE

It is necessary to first establish the fact that the statement of James that “faith without works is dead”, applies to the fellow who knows the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ. Such a person knows the facts about God in the mind, is persuaded of the truth of the gospel and is in agreement with Christian principles. In fact, such a person takes part in Christian worship, is a church-goer and believes with all sincerity that he or she is a true child of God. The only issue is that such a person fails to commit to Jesus in a way and manner that leads to changes in lifestyle. Such people refuse to allow old things in their lives to pass away – there is no crossing the line from darkness to light, there is no spiritual development or growth and such a person does not bear the fruits of righteousness. James 2:17 describes a person whose faith is dead because there are no works to show for it. In Matthew 7:21, Jesus was referring to such people when He said.

“Not every one that saith unto me, Lord, Lord shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven.”

It is very clear therefore that there is a form of action that must follow any profession of faith in Christ Jesus before such faith can be called a living faith. When profession of faith is not backed up with action, then such faith is dead. Many are in the Church today living their lives the same way as people who do not know Christ. The Bible in 2 Timothy 3:5a, described such people as

“Having a form of godliness, but denying the power thereof:”

Such people profess faith in the Son of God; they claim that they believe in the Gospel of Jesus Christ but they flatly deny the transforming power in the Word of God. They would do anything in the Name of God except allow any genuine transformation to take place in their lives.

“And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.”
Romans 12:2

Children of God, faith without works is dead, and dead faith is of no use to anyone. Renew your faith today by backing it up with active works of righteousness. Put on the new man who is renewed in knowledge and transformed into the image of Christ (Colossians 3:10)

Action Point

Faith without works is dead, follow up your faith with works of righteousness.

Bible in One Year

Jeremiah 49:23-50:46,
Acts 26:1-23

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – SATURDAY– 14/02/2015 – FAITH WITHOUT WORKS – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Friday, 13 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – FRIDAY– 13/02/2015 – THE SOVEREIGN GOD – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

THE SOVEREIGN GOD

Memorise

But our God is in the heavens: he hath done whatsoever he hath pleased.

Psalm 115:3

Read

1 Samuel 2:27-30 KJV

27 And there came a man of God unto Eli, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Did I plainly appear unto the house of thy father, when they were in Egypt in Pharaoh’s house?

28 And did I choose him out of all the tribes of Israel to be my priest, to offer upon mine altar, to burn incense, to wear an ephod before me? and did I give unto the house of thy father all the offerings made by fire of the children of Israel?

29 Wherefore kick ye at my sacrifice and at mine offering, which I have commanded in my habitation; and honourest thy sons above me, to make yourselves fat with the chiefest of all the offerings of Israel my people?

30 Wherefore the LORD God of Israel saith, I said indeed that thy house, and the house of thy father, should walk before me for ever: but now the LORD saith, Be it far from me; for them that honour me I will honour, and they that despise me shall be lightly esteemed.

MESSAGE

God is sovereign! He possesses ultimate power and exercises supreme authority over an ultimate territory. Psalm 135:6 explains that God is able to do as He pleases in heaven and on earth. Luke 1:37 says that with God, nothing shall be impossible, and Daniel 4:35 says that He is unquestionable; no one can restrain Him.

It is very important to realise that God cannot be successfully opposed (Job 9:12, Isaiah 43:13). He is the Lord of heaven and earth. 1 Timothy 6:15 calls Him the only Potentate, the King of kings and the Lord of lords. He reigns supreme and His kingdom is forever (Psalm 29:10). God’s sovereignty extends over all things. He is sovereign over creation because He created all things for His own pleasure (Revelation 4:11). He is sovereign over human life and over even the minutest details of life – for example, He said the very hairs of our head are all numbered (Matthew 10:30). He is sovereign over world history and governments. In proverbs 21:1, He said the king’s heart is in His hands. Daniel 4:17 also affairs that the Most High rules in the kingdom of men and He gives it to whomsoever He pleases.

The sovereign God is completely in control of the life and salvation of His chosen people, as well as everything concerning believers. As a matter of fact, because Satan and his demons are part of the created order, they are also subject to the authority of the Most High God. Consequently, God is sovereign over Satan, gods, demonic forces, principles and powers in high places, etc. that is why Colossians 1:16 says that:

“For by him were all things created, that are in heaven, and that are in earth, visible and invisible, whether they be thrones, or dominions, or principalities, or powers: all things are created by him, and for him:”

God deserves our worship and adoration, He is worthy of all glory, honour, and praise. He is greater that the greatest, yet He is full of love and mercy. All power in heaven and on earth belongs to Him. Lift Him up high. Magnify and bless His holy Name forevermore.

Action Point

Worship the sovereign God and sing praises to His holy Name throughout the day. As you do this, His divine presence will become manifest in your life in Jesus’ Name.

Bible in one year

Jeremiah 48:1-49:22
Acts 25:13-27

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – FRIDAY– 13/02/2015 – THE SOVEREIGN GOD – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Thursday, 12 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – THURSDAY– 12/02/2015 – DIVINE INFORMATION – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

DIVINE INFORMATION

Memorise

He that hath an ear, let him hear what the Spirit saith unto the churches; To him that overcometh will I give to eat of the tree of life, which is in the midst of the paradise of God.
Revelation 2:7

Read

Amos 3:7-8 KJV

7 Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, but he revealeth his secret unto his servants the prophets.

8 The lion hath roared, who will not fear? the Lord GOD hath spoken, who can but prophesy?

MESSAGE

Divine information refers to knowledge, instruction, intelligence, facts or details relating to or proceeding directly from God. Divine information is given as an act of love to save humanity from Satan, sin and its destructive effects. There are many sources of divine information such as the Bible, the Holy Spirit and the Lord Jesus Christ. The operation of these three complement and do not contradict each other. This truth is established in John 16:14 and in 2 Peter 1:20-21 which says:

“Knowing this first, that no prophecy of the scripture is of any private interpretation. For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost”.

Other sources of divine information including God speaking through his prophets (Amos 3:7); through visions and dreams (Daniel 1:17) and by the use of special signs (1 Kings 13:3-5). The content of a divine revelation can be the unveiling of hidden mysteries (Daniel 2:22), a notification of future events (Genesis 41:25), a revelation of God’s glory, a revelation of God’s salvation (Luke 2:30-32) or a revelation of God’s wrath (Romans 1:18). However, the general response that God expects from you whenever divine information is sent to you is sobriety, compliance, total obedience and immediate action.

“Again, he limiteth a certain day, saying in David, To day, after so long a time; as it is said, To day if ye will hear his voice, harden not your hearts.”
Hebrew 4:7

Please be warned that refusal to heed divine information in a timely manner could lead to devastating results that may be irreversible. God is presently sending out several divine signals and information. He is calling the Church back from worldliness and a sinful lifestyle to holiness and righteousness. Please do not harden your hearts; today is the day of salvation, tomorrow may be too late!

Prayer Point

Father, please help me to give a timely and positive response to every divine information I receive in Jesus’ Name.

Bible in One Year

Jeremiah 45-47,
Acts 24:22-25:12

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – THURSDAY– 12/02/2015 – DIVINE INFORMATION – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Tuesday, 10 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – TUESDAY – 10/02/2015 – FAITHFUL CHRISTIAN WORKER – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

FAITHFUL CHRISTIAN WORKER

Memorise

Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.
1 Corinthians 4:2

Read

Luke 12:37-38

37 Blessed are those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.

38 And if he shall come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants.

MESSAGE

A Christian worker is a born-again child of God; a steward who has been entrusted with the careful use, control and management of kingdom resources and possessions. The teachings of our Lord Jesus Christ on stewardship emphasised two things that are important: responsibility and accountability. Jesus speaking on responsibility in Luke 12:48 said:

“But he that knew not, and did commit things worthy of stripes, shall be beaten with few stripes. For unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more.”

According to Revelation 4:11, God created man and everything else for His pleasure. Individuals are therefore accountable for their God-given physical and spiritual endowments. Christians are also responsible for whatever is put in their care. The gifts and talents in our lives are to be used profitably for the expansion of the kingdom of God. The Bible further states in Romans 14:12 that every one of us shall give account of himself to God, and in Romans 2:6 that God will render to every man according to his deeds. Consequently, every Christian worker is accountable to God. The Bible also admonishes us not to neglect our gifts but to develop and polish them.

“Neglect not the gift that is in thee, which was given thee by prophecy, with the laying on of the hands of the presbytery.”

1 Timothy 4:14

Christians are to be wise stewards of their God-given gifts, talents and abilities. They are to serve with humility, total submission to authority and in the fear of God. They are to serve with gratitude to God and for the benefit of others. Christian workers in whatever department should not view the work of God as an opportunity to make money. The work should not be done with eye-service but as unto the Lord, who will faithfully reward those who diligently serve Him. Finally, whatever your hands find to do, do it with all your might (Ecclesiastes 9:10), and don’t be slothful in God’s business, but rather be fervent in your physical and spiritual service to God (Romans 12:11). I pray that as you work fervently for God this year, He will reward you accordingly in Jesus’ Name.

Prayer Point

Father, please let the cup of my physical and spiritual blessings overflow this year in the Name of Jesus.

Bible in one year

Jeremiah 40-42, and Acts 23:12-35

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – TUESDAY – 10/02/2015 – FAITHFUL CHRISTIAN WORKER – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Monday, 9 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – MONDAY – O9/02/2015 – DIVINE ROYALTY – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

DIVINE ROYALTY

Memorise

And hath made us kings and priests unto God and his Father; to him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

 Revelation 1:6

Read

1 Samuel 16:1, 11-13

1 And the LORD said unto Samuel, How long wilt thou mourn for Saul, seeing I have rejected him from reigning over Israel? fill thine horn with oil, and go, I will send thee to Jesse the Beth-lehemite: for I have provided me a king among his sons.

11 And Samuel said unto Jesse, Are here all thy children? And he said, There remaineth yet the youngest, and, behold, he keepeth the sheep. And Samuel said unto Jesse, Send and fetch him: for we will not sit down till he come hither.

12 And he sent, and brought him in. Now he was ruddy, and withal of a beautiful countenance, and goodly to look to. And the LORD said, Arise, anoint him: for this is he.

13 Then Samuel took the horn of oil, and anointed him in the midst of his brethren: and the Spirit of the LORD came upon David from that day forward. So Samuel rose up, and went to Ramah.

MESSAGE

Prior to the anointing of David as King of Israel in 1 Samuel 16:11-13, he was ordinary like any other person. But after the anointing came on him, he received supernatural grace to accomplish great things for God. The choice of David was neither an accident nor coincidence. In 1 Samuel 13:14. The Bible says this concerning him:

‘…. The LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart…’

This reveals that there was a solemn search that led God to David in the wilderness, Also, in 1 Samuel 16:7, God said:

‘… for man looketh on the outward appearance, but the LORD looketh on the heart.’

It is therefore clear that qualification for divine royalty strictly depends on the condition of a person’s heart towards God.

Divine royalty put a fellow in the position of authority over all circumstances of life. At the command of a ‘ divine royal’ sickness , poverty, failure and the demons behind them must bow. The authority, responsibilities and honour attached to divine royalty suggest that a heart focused on God is necessary to be eligible for such high honour and glory. The title ‘Divine Royalty ‘ is therefore strictly reserved for a born- again and sanctified children of God. To this end , Daniel 7:18 reveals that the saints of God shall take and posses the kingdom forever and ever.

‘But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light:’

1 Peter 2:9

One thing is sure: a person canonly manifest the status of divine royalty if and only if the anointing continues to rest upon him or her. We must note that there are things divine royals cannot do and certain types of relationships they cannot keep.

1 Corinthians 10:22 says :

‘All things are lawful for me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but all things edify not.’

As you begin to live according to the high standard of heaven in agreement with the Word of God, may the anointing for divine royalty fall upon you today in the Name of Jesus. Amen.

Action Point

You are a divine royal and a member of God’s royal priesthood; ask for grace to live up to expectation today.

Bible in one Year

Jeremiah 37:11-39:18

Acts 22:30-23:11

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – MONDAY – O9/02/2015 – DIVINE ROYALTY – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Sunday, 8 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – SUNDAY – O8/02/2015 – REMEMBER NOW – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

REMEMBER NOW

Memorise

Rejoice, O young man, in thy youth; and let thy heart cheer thee in the days of thy youth, and walk in the ways of thine heart, and in the sight of thine eyes: but know thou, that for all these things God will bring thee into judgement.

Ecclesiastes 11:9

Read

Ecclesiastes 12:1-7

1 Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them;

2 While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain:

3 In the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look out of the windows be darkened

4 And the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of the grinding is low, and he shall rise up at the voice of the bird, and all the daughters of musick shall be brought low;

5 Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the almond tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail: because man goeth to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets:

6 Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern.

7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.

MESSAGE

Remembrance is the act of keeping a subject matter in mind for attention or consideration. It implies a bringing back to memory of what has been lost, forgotten or overlooked. A call to remember a subject matter is a call for timely action that carries a strong warning with it. In Ecclesiastes 12:1, the power of the word “remember” is further amplified by the word “now” which follows it. “Remember now” is a command and a strong warning that conveys a need for urgent action.

Children of God must remember that every kingdom responsibility and assignment is time-bound. Time is of essence, it is more precious than money and it waits for no one. We don’t have the luxury of controlling time. When a required action is not taken on time, it passes by and the opportunity is lost. I pray that you will recover every lost opportunity in your life in Jesus’ Name. In 1 Samuel 25:18, Abigail saved herself and her whole family from destruction because she made haste to take remedial action on an explosive issue. David was able to overcome Goliath completely in 1 Samuel 17:48-51 because of his quick action. Also, when the conspiracy of Absalom got to the knowledge of David, he and his allies were saved because he made haste to depart from Jerusalem.

“And David said unto all his servants that were with him at Jerusalem, Arise, and let us flee; for we shall not else escape from Absalom: make speed to depart, lest he overtake us suddenly, and bring evil upon us, and smite the city with the edge of the sword.”

2 Samuel 15:14

2 Corinthians 6:2 says that now is the accepted time and that is the day of salvation. The acceptable time for repentance and holy living is set for now. There is no room for procrastination anymore. Now is the time for soul-winning, bearing fruits of righteousness and living a victorious life over sin, sickness, poverty and failure. It is time to overflow with peace, joy, success, abundant blessings and the anointing of the Most High God.

Prayer Point

Father, please destroy the power of procrastination in my life, and let my time for overflowing blessings come now in the Name of Jesus.

Bible in one year

Jeremiah 35:1-37:10
Acts 22:12-29

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – SUNDAY – O8/02/2015 – REMEMBER NOW – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Friday, 6 February 2015

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – FRIDAY – O6/02/2015 – YOUR HORN SHALL BE EXALTED – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

YOUR HORN SHALL BE EXALTED

Memorise

Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within bless his holy name.

Psalm 103:1

Read

1 Samuel 2:1-2 KJV)

1 And Hannah prayed, and said, My heart rejoiceth in the Lord, mine horn is exalted in the Lord: my mouth is enlarged over mine enemies; because I rejoice in thy salvation.

2 There is none holy as the Lord: for there is none beside thee: neither is there any rock like our God.

MESSAGE

The word “horn” is used both literally and symbolically in the Bible. It is used to describe the keratin-based growth on the head of animals. The horn of dead animals is sometimes converted to musical instruments or used as vessel for anointing oil. However, the horn has significant metaphorical meanings. It is a symbol of power, help, victory or glory. To lift up the horn connotes success, while a broken horn denotes defeat. It is with this understanding that Hannah rejoiced in the Lord by saying my horn is exalted in the Lord. May the Name of the Lord be praised and exalted for evermore in Jesus’ Name. As you meditate on the word of the Lord today, your horn shall be exalted in Jesus’ Name.

Exaltation has a spiritual connotation. It means to glorify, lift high, promote or raise a person to a higher status or position. It therefore follows that exaltation is of the Lord and only God and God alone is worthy of exaltation. However, Hannah said “my horn is exalted in the Lord”. Psalm 75:6-7 also says,

“For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. But God is the judge: he putteth down one, and setteth up another.”

This means that God can choose to exalt a person. In the Bible, we see some beneficiaries of the special grace and mercy of God in this regard. They include Abraham, Joseph, Hannah, Moses, Joshua, David and Solomon.

God caused Joshua to be exalted in Joshua 3:7:

“And the Lord said unto Joshua, This day will I begin to magnify thee in the sight of all Israel, that they know that, as I was with Moses, so I will be with thee.”

This same God is still alive today; He doesn’t change. He is the same yesterday, today and forever.

Today, He will visit you with His love, mercy and favour. The Bible in Psalm 75:10 says,

“All the horns of the wicked also will I cut off; but the horns of the righteous shall be exalted.”

Because you are made righteous by the blood of Jesus, you are a special candidate for exaltation. Your horn shall be exalted in the mighty Name of Jesus.

Action Point

Learn humility. Humility leads to exaltation.

Bible in one year

Jeremiah 31:31-32:44
Acts 21:17-36

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL – FRIDAY – O6/02/2015 – YOUR HORN SHALL BE EXALTED – BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE