OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - MONDAY - 19/1/2015 - DO YOU DESIRE TO BE BLESSED? - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

DO YOU DESIRE TO BE BLESSED?

Memorise
Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered.
Psalm 32:1

Read

 Genesis 27:1-4

1  And it came to pass, that when Isaac was old, and his eyes were dim, so that he could not see, he called Esau his eldest son, and said unto him, My son: and he said unto him, Behold, here am I.  
2  And he said, Behold now, I am old, I know not the day of my death:    
3  Now therefore take, I pray thee, thy weapons, thy quiver and thy bow, and go out to the field, and take me some venison;   
4  And make me savoury meat, such as I love, and bring it to me, that I may eat; that my soul may bless thee before I die.

Message

Many people desire to be blessed by God and men, but they have never bothered to do anything to actualise their most-desired blessings. Many have received fantastic prophecies which they know are theirs indeed, but they have never taken any step to bring about the fulfilment of such prophecies. When the Lord told the children of Israel that it was time for them to possess the Promised Land flowing with milk and honey, the onus was on them to depose the illegal occupants before they could possess it (Joshua 1:11-15).

It is very important that the children of God know the principles that guarantee divine blessing so that they can endeavour to apply them. Years ago, at London Heathrow on my way back to Nigeria, I met two of my children who greeted me, and I responded accordingly. One of them moved towards me and helped me with one of the carry-on bags that I was struggling with and I said, “God bless you.” On hearing “God bless you” coming from me to the one who helped me with my bag, the other fellow said, “What about me, daddy?” I spontaneously responded, “What for?” He saw me laden with luggage and merely greeted me, so I merely greeted him in return. If God’s blessing is conditional, and indeed it is, then I won’t put it on those who do not deserve it.

From our scripture reading, take note of the condition Esau needed to fulfil before he could access his father’s blessing. The father’s blessing, both biological and spiritual, is one that must not be missed. It is powerful and only reversible by the Almighty God. The greatness of our loss is therefore unimaginable, if we do nothing to access His divine blessing. One way of accessing divine blessing is stated in Proverbs 3:9-10. Take care to apply this in your life.

Many so-called children of God today are in deep financial and material agony. They seek God’s blessing to no avail because they have failed to realise that it is when they give that they would be given. It is my belief that you would always have something to give not only to God but also to His servants. You can use one orange to entertain four visitors at a time instead of letting them go empty. My prayer for you is that at every point of your life, you will not lack food to eat, and you will not lack the seed to sow to access your divine blessings in Jesus’ Name.

Prayer Point

Father, open my eyes to recognise what it will take to access my divine blessings, in Jesus’ Name.

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - MONDAY - 19/1/2015 - DO YOU DESIRE TO BE BLESSED? - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

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OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - SUNDAY - 18/1/2015 - PECULIAR GENERATION - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Peculiar Generation

Memorise

Beloved, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God; therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
1 John 3:2

Read

1 Peter 2:9-10 KJV

9 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:

10 Which in time past were not a people, but are now the people of God: which had not obtained mercy, but now have obtained mercy.

MESSAGE

When John the beloved pondered on the fact that believers in Christ are children of God, he could not stop wondering how privileged they were to be so-called (1 John 3:2). Apostle Peter expounded the implication of the adoption we receive through Jesus Christ.

“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

There are many things that characterise a peculiar generation. A peculiar generation is the generation of those who seek God (Psalm 24:6). A peculiar generation is the generation of those who have obtained mercy and through it have become solution provider and barrier breaker. They are an unstoppable group of God’s children. We have a good number of them in the Bible. For example, Joseph belonged to the peculiar generation who would not compromise godliness and perfect loyalty to God (Genesis 39:7-9). A peculiar generation is that generation of solution providers like Daniel, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego (Daniel 2:17-19). To belong to this generation, you must be ready to seek God in the midst of ungodly people (2 Corinthians 6:17-18).

In the 21st century, there are those who have decided to treat the Bible as outdated literature. Such do not see witchcraft, sorcery and sexual perversion such as homosexuality as evil. They explain apostolic teachings as inconsequential. Such are the people are peculiar generation must not associate themselves with. Although the peculiar generation might be marginalised, they are undeterred. On good thing about them is that they never suffer defeat, not even when demonic people try to attack them, because the Bible in Numbers 23:23” says

“Surely there is no enchantment against Jacob, neither is there any divination against Israel:”

I pray that you will choose to belong to this peculiar generation of people who seek God at such a time like this: when it is no longer popular to live by the principle of the Holy Scriptures. May God bless you as you decide to belong today in Jesus’ Name.

Prayer Point

Father, help me remain steadfast in the midst of a crooked and perverse generation.

Bible in one Year

Isaiah 51:53;

Acts 10:24-43

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Evangelism Made Personal PART 2 – Having The Right Motivation In Evangelism

With the right motivation behind our efforts in evangelism, the job will get done. Whenever evangelism does not occur, lack of motivation (or in some cases, improper motivation) is always at the root of the problem!

What Is “motivation?”

As defined by Denis Waitley in his book, “The Joy Of Working”…

“Motivation is an inner drive, an idea captured in the imagination.”
“Motivation can be harnessed to an intense drive towards a goal.”
“Men and women who are motivated push themselves forward, plow through the inevitable setbacks, heading ever onward to their dreams.”
“Motivation is essential to succeeding in any endeavor you try.”
Motivation is like “steam.” Properly channeled it can move large objects, like a steam powered train. But without it, the train remains motionless. All the careful construction in preparation for travel is for nothing if there is no steam to propel the train.

So it is with us. If motivated and properly channeled, great things can be done in the area of evangelism. Unfortunately, many people, despite all of the spiritual education they have received on the subject of evangelism, still do very little with what they know. The reason? Lack of proper motivation!

WHAT SHOULD BE OUR MOTIVATION IN EVANGELISM?

Well, what motivated Jesus? Certainly He was successful in reaching His goals. Since He is to be our example (1Pe 2:21), whatever motivated Him should be the motivating force driving His disciples.

We can identify at least five things which moved our Lord. The first was…

COMPASSION FOR LOST SOULS

Jesus was moved with compassion when He saw the mass of lost souls (Mt 9:35-36; 14:14; 15:32). Such compassion motivated Him to do two things.

• First, to ask His disciples to pray that God might “send out laborers into His harvest” (Mt 9:37-38).


• Then, to do something about it Himself (that is, to select and send out His apostles (Mt 10:1,5-7)

Do we ever find ourselves filled with compassion for the lost? And doing something about it? If we can only have this same compassion for lost souls, we will not rest till we are doing something to save their souls!
How can we develop or strengthen this compassion for lost souls? The best way is LET GOD TEACH US TO LOVE, as He did with the Thessalonians (1Th 4:9). This He does through the example of Christ (1Jn 3:16- 17). I am suggesting, therefore, that the more we meditate upon God’s love for us as manifested in His Son’s sacrifice, the more we will come to love others! It also helps to BE AROUND PEOPLE. To love people, you have to get to know them. When we do, we can begin to appreciate the saying attributed to Will Rogers, “I never met a man I did not like.” So beware of becoming “wrapped up in your own little world.” Remember that Jesus was one to become involved with “the multitudes.”

Have we allowed the love of God to fill our hearts with compassion for the multitude of lost and dying souls? Are we making an effort to be around people and getting to know them?

Jesus also had…

A SENSE OF PURPOSE

This motivating force is seen in our Lord’s conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well. While speaking with her, his disciples marveled at what His motive might be (Jn 4:27). Jesus explained: “To do the will of Him who sent Me…to accomplish His work” (Jn 4:34). He stated this same purpose in life on many other occasions (Jn 5:30, 36; 6:38; 17:4; 19:28-30). And what was the will of His Father? To save a dying world (Jn 3:16). To “seek and save the lost” (Lk 19:10).

Do we have this same “sense of purpose” in our lives? To put first the Father’s will? Jesus taught that we should (Mt 6:10,33). But people often have “DIFFERENT PURPOSES” for living. The “workaholics” make their jobs their purpose in life. Many make their families, friends or hobbies the reason for living.

But the “RIGHT PURPOSE” comes from studying God’s Word. As we understand God’s will for us, we learn that our purpose for being His special people centers around proclaiming the praises of Him who called us (1Pe 2:9-10). One way we do this, of course, is through evangelism.

Have we let the Word of God develop within us the “right sense of purpose”? If not, our motivation will be inadequate!

Another force that moved our Lord was…

THE LOVE OF THE FATHER

Jesus had experienced “the love of the Father”, which prompted Him to love others (Jn 15:9). But it went beyond that. This “love” was such that He wanted to share it with others (Jn 17:26), even if it was necessary for Him to go the cross to make it possible! Have we experienced “the love of the Father” in our lives? If so, how can we not be moved (motivated) to want to share it with others? Is it not worth sharing? Of course it is! But if we must confess that our sense of the Father’s love is not as strong as we would like, how can we develop a greater sense of God’s love for us?

The way to experience the Father’s love is to “KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS OF JESUS” (Jn 14:21,23). A most important commandment in this regard is the one to love one another as Christ loved us (Jn 15:12). This is because loving one another is crucial to experiencing the love of the Father in our lives. As John wrote: “If we love one another, God abides in us, and His love has been perfected in us” (1Jn 4:12).

Another way to increase our experience of the Father’s love is to “MAKE OUR LOVE FOR JESUS STRONGER.” This is because the Father’s love for us is directly related to our love for Jesus (John 16:27). How can one increase their love for Jesus? The best way is to spend time learning more about Him from the Word of God.

Have we experienced the Father’s love by loving Jesus and keeping His commandments (esp. loving one another)? If not, we will not have much worth sharing, nor be motivated to share it!

We can also add to our list of the things that motivated Jesus…

THE TERROR OF THE LORD

Jesus was very much aware of God’s “righteous indignation”. He taught that we should “fear” God (Mt 10:28). He warned of the judgment to come (Mk 9:43-48). Knowing the “terror of the Lord”, Jesus was willing to go to the cross that man might be saved. He even prayed for those crucifying Him (Lk 23:34). Are we willing to make the effort to save others, like Jesus? We may not have to die for them… But are we even willing to speak to them? Or could it be that we don’t take the “terror of the Lord” as serious as Jesus’ early disciples did (cf. 2Co 5:11)?

How can we develop a healthy appreciation for “the terror of the Lord”? I recommend frequent “MEDITATING UPON THE WORD OF GOD”, especially those portions which describe God’s judgments in the past (cf. 2 Pe 2:4-9), and that provide warnings of the Judgment Day to come (2 Th 1:7-10; Re 20:12-15; 21:8).

Have we, like many, become complacent to the fact that there will be a day of judgment and condemnation? Could it be we have not let the Word of God have its true affect on our lives? A lack of concern and involvement in trying to reach the lost for Christ would certainly imply this to be the case!

Finally, we see that the Lord was moved by…

THE JOY SET BEFORE HIM

As expressed by the writer of Hebrews (He 12:2), Jesus was motivated by the joyful prospect of being with His Father, at His Right Hand. Notice that this enabled Him to “endure the cross” and “despise the shame”.
Does not the prospect of spending eternity with God move us to do what we can to save souls? It must, if we also are to be willing to “endure the cross” or “despise the shame” that might be involved in evangelism!

To increase our level of appreciating what lies ahead for the faithful, I recommend regular “CONTEMPLATION UPON WHAT GOD HAS PREPARED FOR US” as described in the Word of God. I find especially helpful those scenes pictured in Re 7:13-17; 21:1-7.

It also helps to “THINK OF WHAT GOD WILL DO FOR THOSE WE REACH”. Paul did, as he describes in 1Th 2:19-20; and it gave him great joy that I am sure helped him to PRESS ON teaching others.

Conclusion

The ability to press on…this is the VALUE of proper motivation. Remember our earlier definition of motivation?
“Men and women who are motivated push themselves forward, plow through the inevitable setbacks, heading ever onward to their dreams.” 

Such was case with our Lord… He fulfilled His goals, being motivated by:
Compassion for lost souls
A strong sense of purpose
The love of the Father
The terror of the Lord
The joy set before Him

Since Jesus is the “AUTHOR” and “FINISHER” of our faith (He 12:2), we should be “looking unto Jesus” for the motivation we need to do His will. We should “consider Him” (He 12:3), lest we become weary and discouraged in doing God’s will. I am convinced the early church looked to Jesus, and found the motivation necessary to grow as they did. I believe that we can do the same today!

It should be apparent by now that the “KEY” to developing and strengthening the proper motivation is to let the Word of God have its intended effect upon us. But if Christians are not daily reading, studying, and meditating upon the Word of God, THEN HOW CAN WE EVER HOPE TO STAY MOTIVATED LIKE JESUS, PAUL AND THE EARLY CHURCH WAS?

I believe that if we DO read, study, and meditate upon the Word of God, then we will be like JEREMIAH…who at first made excuses (Jer 1:6), but as he fed upon the Word found great joy (Jer 15:16). So much so, that when ridiculed for speaking, he first tried to refrain, but found that he just couldn’t keep it in (Jer 20:7-9)!

May we also allow God’s Word and the example of Jesus to motivate us in evangelizing the lost!

Evangelism Made Personal PART 2 – Having The Right Motivation In Evangelism Read More

Evangelism Made Personal PART 1 - The Objective Of This Study

The approach taken in this study devoted to the subject of Evangelism varies somewhat from what you might normally expect to find. It is an effort to overcome the sort of problems believers face in the process of evangelism or getting equipped for evangelism. Such problems as:

• People losing their evangelistic zeal soon  after any efforts are made to try to reach others for Christ


• People who do not have the ability to teach being made to feel as though they are not as dedicated to the Lord as those who do teach


• People going out to teach before they are really prepared to teach, and often doing much harm in the process


• People who are unable to teach not being shown how they can greatly assist those who are able to teach


• Efforts in evangelism being carried out without being accompanied by a demonstration of the truth of the gospel in our own lives

In trying to overcome these and similar problems, this study is based upon the following assumptions:

• If people can be properly motivated and maintain a positive perspective, they will do whatever they can in this enterprise we call “evangelism”, both now and in the future


• The Lord does not expect everyone to be a “teacher” in the formal sense of the word (Jm 3:1; 1Co 12:29; Ro 12:3-8; 1Pe 4:10,11), and we fail to appreciate the diversity of function in the Lord’s body (the church) if we expect everybody to become a teacher


• Developing the ability to teach comes only with time, study, and training, which is far beyond the scope of any one course in evangelism


• Those who may not be able to teach can still do a lot to greatly enhance the opportunities for others to teach, if only shown how


• The most effective method of evangelism is one where the “verbalization” of the gospel is preceded by the “incarnation” of the gospel (i.e., demonstrating the truth of the gospel in our lives before we try to preach it to others)

I suspect not all will agree with some of these assumptions. Given time and experience, I myself may change some of my views. But for now, and for the purpose of introducing this study, these remarks may help to explain the direction this study takes…

WATCH OUT FOR EVANGELISM MADE PERSONAL PART 2

Evangelism Made Personal PART 1 - The Objective Of This Study

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OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - SATURDAY - 17/1/2015 - ENJOYING AND EXERCISING SPIRITUAL AUTHORITY - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Enjoying & Exercising Spiritual Authority

Memorise

And the evil spirit answered and said, Jesus I know, and Paul I know; but who are ye?

Acts 19:15

Read

Acts 13:8 – 12 KJV

8 But Elymas the sorcerer (for so is his name by interpretation) withstood them, seeking to turn away the deputy from the faith.

9 Then Saul, (who also is called Paul,) filled with the Holy Ghost, set his eyes on him.

10 And said, O full of all subtilty and all mischief, thou child of the devil, thou enemy of all righteousness, wilt thou not cease to pervert the right ways of the Lord?

11 And now, behold, the hand of the Lord is upon thee, and thou shalt be blind, not seeing the sun for a season. And immediately there fell on him a mist and a darkness; and he went about seeking some to lead him by the hand

12 Then the deputy, when he saw what was done, believed, being astonished at the doctrine of the Lord

MESSAGE

Enjoying and exercising spiritual authority is a pleasant experience. Are you enjoying spiritual authority? Better still, are you really exercising your God-given spiritual authority? If not, why? In today’s Bible reading, Paul exercised spiritual authority over an agent of the devil. Elymas the sorcerer could have frustrated the preaching of the gospel to a potential disciple of Jesus Christ, but for the fact that Paul the apostle knew the authority that he had. However, it is one thing to know that you have authority, and it is another thing to exercise it. You cannot exercise the spiritual authority you do not possess, because you cannot give what you don’t have. If you try it, you will end up with spiritual wounds like the seven sons of Sceva in Acts 19:14-16

You may be wondering, “How can I enjoy spiritual authority and alson exercise it? First and foremost, you must establish a relationship with the One with overall spiritual power (Matthew 28:18). His name is Jesus. It is His authority you are exercising. Take a look at His model:

“And he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach, and to have power to heal sicknesses, and cast out devils;”

Mark 3:14-15

Secondly, you must obey rules governing the exercise of His authority. He revealed one of such rules to His disciples in Mark 9:29. after they had failed while exercising His spiritual authority:

“And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.”

Thirdly, identify and believe in genuine ministers of God, in whom God has deposited His authority (2nd Chronicles 20:20). Learn to fellow their instructions.

Many people don’t know the value of this utterance: “God bless you”. A simple “God bless you” prayer from a man with spiritual authority will give you tremendous blessings without sweating.

One night, I was praying at the Redemption Camp during one of our special programmes. A young man was following me because he wanted me to pray for him. I struggled to pause my personal prayer to pronounce “God bless you” on him. To my amazement, he still wanted me to pray for him I wondered what else he wanted when I had pleaded with God to bless him.

Action Point

Establish a relationship with Jesus Christ today. Study His word and exercise your faith in it, and you will begin to enjoy spiritual authority.

Bible in one Year
Isaiah 48:50
Acts 10:1-23

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Why did Jesus say authority was given to him to execute judgement because he is the "Son of Man"? Wouldn't "Son of God" make more sense?

Jesus used the terms “Son of God” and “Son of Man” inter-changeably in many places in scripture, to convey that he is both God and man. In the context of John 5:27, wouldn’t it make more sense for Jesus to say that the “Son of God” has the authority to judge?

Why did Jesus say authority was given to him to execute judgement because he is the "Son of Man"? Wouldn't "Son of God" make more sense? Read More

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - FRIDAY - 16/1/2015 - ENJOYING DIVINE BLESSINGS? - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

Enjoying Divine Blessings

Memorise

And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God. 

Deuteronomy 28:2

Read

Malachi 3:10-12

10 Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it.

11 And I will rebuke the devourer for your sakes, and he shall not destroy the fruits of your ground; neither shall your vine cast her fruit before the time in the field, saith the LORD of hosts.

12 And all nations shall call you blessed: for ye shall be a delightsome land, saith the LORD of hosts.

MESSAGE

God can decide to bless an individual beyond the wildest imagination of men (Deuteronomy 28:1). However, He can later change His mind concerning this decision. Why?

“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.”
1 Samuel 2:30

Enjoying divine blessings is conditional. You must be ready to honour God with your life and all it contains if you want to enjoy divine blessings (Deuteronomy 28:2). If you claim to belong to God and yet you are flouting His commandments, you must be deceiving yourself because God is not a magician. God’s blessings can only be enjoyed on the condition that you obey Him.

In Malachi 3:10-12, God commanded His children to bring all the tithes into His storehouse, with a promise of opening the windows of heaven and pouring out a blessing which there shall be no room to contain. This was an instruction that took me a while to live comfortably with. My background as a mathematician did not help me in this regard. In those horrible days of ignorance, before the middle of the month, I used to borrow money to fuel my car from my driver. I thought to myself, “Who are these people deceiving?” I thought that if 100% was not enough, as indeed, it was not enough for me back then, how could 90% be enough? I thank God for winning this argument in my heart and for making me surrender to His will concerning tithes and offering.

Are you really enjoying divine blessings? The promise of these blessings is for you and your children, as Peter said in Acts 2:39. Therefore, if you are not enjoying the blessings from above, something must be fundamentally wrong with your relationship with God. I encourage you to reconsider your attitude towards God’s conditions for His blessings. Remember that He does not need you or your substance; He created you and whatever you think you have. The truth is: the Almighty acts on His divine principles. One of such principles is found in Proverbs 11:24:

“There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; and there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.”

Your life will change for good if you start to live by the principles that govern divine blessings.

Action Point

Locate areas where you have fallen short of the principles of divine blessings and repent.

Bible in one Year
Isaiah 45-47;

Acts 9:23-43

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OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - THURSDAY - 15/1/2015 - A CHILD OR A DOG? - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

A CHILD OR A DOG?

 MEMORISE

But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children’s bread, and cast it to dogs.

Matthew 15:26

 READ

Matthew 15:21-28

 21 Then Jesus went thence, and departed into the coasts of Tyre and Sidon. 

 22 And, behold, a woman of Canaan came out of the same coasts, and cried unto him, saying, Have mercy on me, O Lord, thou son of David; my daughter is grievously vexed with a devil.

 23 But he answered her not a word. And his disciples came and besought him, saying, Send her away; for she crieth after us. 

 24 But he answered and said, I am not sent but unto the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

 25 Then came she and worshipped him, saying, Lord, help me. 

 26 But he answered and said, It is not meet to take the children’s bread, and cast it to dogs.

 27 And she said, Truth, Lord: yet the dogs eat of the crumbs which fall from their masters’ table. 

 28 Then Jesus answered and said unto her, O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt. And her daughter was made whole from that very hour.

 MESSAGE

In His discussion with the Syro-phenician woman whose daughter was possessed by evil spirits, Jesus expounded that those who belong to the kingdom of God are children of the kingdom, while those outside of the kingdom are viewed as dogs. This truth is further established in Revelation 22:15:

 “For without are dogs, and sorcerers, and whoremongers, and murderers, and idolaters, and whosoever loveth and maketh a lie.”

 Jesus also said that miracles are meant for children of the kingdom and not for dogs. This should be food for thought for anyone seeking a miracle. The question is, “Are you a child or a dog?” You are a candidate for miracles of all sorts if you are a child, but it is unfortunate if you remain in the position of a dog.

 What are the traits of those considered as dogs in the kingdom of God? The Psalmist gives some insight into this in Psalm 22:16:

 “For dogs have compassed me: the assembly of the wicked have enclosed me: they pierced my hands and my feet.”

 This means that the wicked are dogs. Paul, in Philippians 3:2 also warned against evil workers whom he described as dogs:

 “Beware of dogs, beware of evil workers, beware of the concision.”

 In light of these, sinners who refuse to repent and come to the side of God are dogs.

 On the other hand, the forgiven of the Lord are children (Psalm 32:1). Only the children of the Miracle Worker can access His miracles. The Bible in Isaiah 63:8 says:

 “For he said, Surely they are my people, children that will not lie: so he was their Saviour.”

 Unless a person repents and believes in the saving Name of Jesus Christ, he remains a dog. Are you a dog or a child? Get ready for a big miracle this season if you are truly one of the children of God. If you are not, be ready to give up your pride and self-righteousness in order to be adopted by the Holy One of Israel, Jesus Christ the Lord, if you really want a miracle urgently. Miracles are food meant for children and not for dogs. Repent today and get that miracle you need so urgently!

 ACTION POINT

Examine yourself to ascertain if you are a genuine child of God. If you are, cry to your Father for that miracle you urgently need.

 BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Isaiah 43-44;

Acts 9:1-22

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OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - WEDNESDAY - 14/1/2015 - DIVINE TOUCH - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

DIVINE TOUCH

MEMORISE

And Jesus, moved with compassion, put forth his hand, and touched him, and saith unto him, I will; be thou clean.
MARK 1 : 41.

READ

LUKE 7 : 11 – 15.

11 And it came to pass the day after, that he went into a city called Nain; and many of his disciples went with him, and much people.

12 Now when he came nigh to the gate of the city, behold, there was a dead man carried out, the only son of his mother, and she was a widow: and much people of the city was with her.

13 And when the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.

14 And he came and touched the bier: and they that bare him stood still. And he said, Young man, I say unto thee, Arise.

15 And he that was dead sat up, and began to speak. And he delivered him to his mother.

MESSAGE

Divine touch simply refers to the touch of the Almighty Creator of the world. While there is the divine touch, there is also the satanic and human touch. Whatever is touched by God becomes extraordinarily good. Also, any negative situation that comes in contact with the divine touch experiences a positive turn-around. In Matthew 8 : 1 – 4, Jesus touched a leper and his leprosy disappeared. Also, in John 9 : 1 – 7, a man who was born blind regained his sight by the divine touch of Jesus Christ. A touch from Jesus can uproot a genetic problem. Even if the source of your problem is demonic, the touch of Jesus can take care of problems that even X-rays or MRI cannot see anything wrong with him or her, but the fellow would know that something is actually wrong somewhere.

It is interesting to note that a person can initiate the process that yields the divine touch if he or she believes. The leper initiated the process that brought him the divine touch when he came asking Jesus to heal him. It was just a touch that solved his problem (Mark 1 : 40 – 41 )

The story in our Bible reading today is a classic illustration of how the divine touch can turn around a hopeless situation. A widow lost her only son to untimely death and was on her way to bury her only hope. This widow and her dead son encountered Jesus on the way, and their situation was turned around through His divine touch. I pray for someone using this devotional that you will experience the divine touch in all areas of your life in Jesus’ Name. For you to experience the divine touch, you must take out time to study those who have had this experience in the past. Take the example of the lepers at the outskirts of town and came into the town at great risk to meet Jesus, all because he had unwavering faith that Jesus would make him whole. You need to have unwavering faith in the infallible Word of God. You can demonstrate this when you have high regard for the contents of the Bible and keep to its tenets. My prayer again is that the power in the Word of God will work for and not against you in Jesus’ Name.

PRAYER POINT

Father, have compassion on me and touch my situation for good in Jesus’ Name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
ISAIAH 41 : 42
ACTS 8 : 26 – 40.

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - WEDNESDAY - 14/1/2015 - DIVINE TOUCH - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE Read More

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - TUESDAY - 13/1/2015 - DIVINE REPLACEMENT - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

DIVINE REPLACEMENT

Memorise

And Samuel said unto him, The LORD hath rent the kingdom of Israel from thee this day, and hath given it to a neighbour of thine, that is better than thou.
1 Samuel 15:28

Read

Esther 2:1-4

1 After these things, when the wrath of king Ahasuerus was appeased, he remembered Vashti, and what she had done, and what was decreed against her.

2 Then said the king’s servants that ministered unto him, Let there be fair young virgins sought for the king:

3 And let the king appoint officers in all the provinces of his kingdom, that they may gather together all the fair young virgins unto Shushan the palace, to the house of the women, unto the custody of Hege the king’s chamberlain, keeper of the women; and let their things for purification be given them:

4 And let the maiden which pleaseth the king be queen instead of Vashti. And the thing pleased the king; and he did so.

MESSAGE

“And the king loved Esther above all the women, and she obtained grace and favour in his sight more than all the virgins; so that he set the royal crown upon her head, and made her queen instead of Vashti.”
Esther 2:17

From the scripture above, you will observe that divine replacement has both positive and negative sides to it. For Vashti, the divine replacement that occurred was negative, but for Esther, it was positive. I pray that you will enjoy the positive side of the divine replacement coming your way this season in Jesus’ Name. The Bible says that it is God Almighty who sets kings on thrones (Romans 13:1). The One who installs a king has the power to unseat the same king. Just as there is divine placement, so also is there divine replacement (1 Samuel 15:28). Endeavour to keep your God-given position and avoid replacement. You will not be replaced in Jesus’ Name.

The story behind the replacement of Vashti with Esther in Esther 2:1-17 should teach us some lessons as Christians. We should heed the warning in Revelation 3:11:

“Behold, I come quickly: hold that fast which thou hast, that no man take thy crown.”

It is a pity that many so-called children of God are no longer holding fast their position of adoption.

They are selling their birthrights like Esau of old for a morsel of food. It was pride that replaced Queen Vashti. She momentarily forgot that she was only a queen because her husband was the king. She flouted the order of her husband, the king, and before she knew what was happening, someone else had taken her crown. To avoid divine replacement, we must be careful to obey every instruction given to us by our Saviour, King and Husband- Jesus Christ. One of such instructions is the commandment to bear fruit (John 15:16-17). When we bear fruit, we honour and complement His work of salvation. When we love our brethren, we establish His lordship on earth. However, when we refuse to bear fruit, we seem to make His death a waste. Also, when we behave in a manner that does not edify the brethren, we have no love. For example, when a so-called sister dresses to ‘torment’ the libidinal instinct of brothers, where is the love of God? There is no love in being a stumbling block (1 Corinthians 8:13).

Prayer Point

Father, please prevent me from doing anything that will make me lose my position in Christ, in Jesus’ Name.

Bible in one Year

Isaiah 38-40;

Acts 8:4-25

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OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - MONDAY - 12/1/2015 - DIVINE INVOLVEMENT - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

DIVINE INVOLVEMENT

 MEMORISE

And I will give this people favour in the sight of the Egyptians: and it shall come to pass, that, when ye go, ye shall not go empty:

Exodus 3:21

 READ

Exodus 3:7-8

 7 And the LORD said, I have surely seen the affliction of my people which are in Egypt, and have heard their cry by reason of their taskmasters; for I know their sorrows;

 8 And I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians, and to bring them up out of that land unto a good land and a large, unto a land flowing with milk and honey; unto the place of the Canaanites, and the Hittites, and the Amorites, and the Perizzites, and the Hivites, and the Jebusites.

MESSAGE

Divine involvement simply suggests God’s participation in a subject matter. When the Almighty God gets involved in a person’s affairs, it will appear as if the fellow is wiser or more powerful than others. Nothing becomes impossible for such a person. Whatever the challenge he or she is facing becomes history. The moment the Almighty God got involved in the affliction of the children of Israel, things began to work out for their good. God declared His involvement in their situation in Exodus 3:8a. He said:

 “And I am come down to deliver them out of the hand of the Egyptians”

 The first thing God did was to raise a deliverer for them. I pray that the Almighty God will send helpers to you this season in Jesus’ Name. Moses, the helper God decided to send, was not willing because he felt he was not capable. Notwithstanding, the Lord did not only convince him to volunteer himself, He also equipped him. God said to Moses in Exodus 3:12:

 “…Certainly I will be with thee; and this shall be a token unto thee, that I have sent thee: When thou hast brought forth the people out of Egypt, ye shall serve God upon this mountain.”

 This is one thing that children of God should know. It’s one thing to have a willing helper, and it’s another thing for the helper to be capable of rendering help.

 Several years ago, while travelling to Ilorin, I saw a young girl crying and shedding tears profusely.

 My attention was drawn to her, and I asked my driver to pull up the car beside her. I asked her why she was crying so much. She told me she had lost her mother’s money and that unless she found it, her mother would punish her severely. I asked her how much the money was, and she told me it was “fifty kobo”. I handed the said amount to her and she galloped away rejoicing. When God gets involved in your situation, He wipes tears away from your eyes. I prophesy to someone using this devotional that God will get involved in your situation today, and things will turn around for your good in Jesus’ Name. However, for God to get involved in your situation, you must establish a relationship with Him. God got involved in the terrible situation of the children of Israel because of the relationship He had with their patriarchs – Abraham, Isaac and Jacob (Exodus 2:24-25).

ACTION POINT

Cry to God Almighty in the Name of Jesus to get involved in your situation today.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Isaiah 36-37;

Acts 7:44-8:3

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PRAYER GUIDE FOR RCCG 2015 40 DAYS FASTING AND PRAYER

The year 2015 has number 5 at its end, and five (5) indicates grace. In this year, the grace of God will see you through, protect you, cover you from all dangers, promote you, prosper you and put an end to every form of disgrace. These are the contents in the package of prophecies just released by our father in the Lord at the Crossover night. Hence, as we pray these fourty days, may we see the manifestation over our nations, our lives and ministries, in the name of Jesus.

God bless you.

Prayer Points

1. Thank God for being the God over your life. Ps.124:1-8


2. Praise the name of the Lord for bringing you into a bright new year.


3. Thank God for providing for your family throughout the past year. Ps.23:1-6


4. Thank God for defending your home. Ps. 20:1-3. Ps 145:1-21


5. Bless the name of the Lord for His mercies over your life and family members. Ps. 136:1-26. Ps.51:1-19


6. Plead God’s mercy for all your shortcomings. Ps.51:1-14


7. Thank God for His ultimate power that established RCCG.


8. Bless the name of the Lord for the obedience of Late Pa. Josiah Akindayomi, and Pastor E.A. Adeboye, to the voice of the Owner of ultimate power.


9. Ask God to remove everything that is acting as a hindrance to your prayers and progress.


10. Ask God to arise in His wrath and destroy every satanic plan against your life.


11. Pray that God would be glorified in your life from now on and forever


12. Ask God to encourage you all the way in 2015 like never before


13. Ask God to make your life attract millions of people unto Him.


14. Pray for all round peace throughout 2015.


15. Father, let me enjoy joy unspeakable and fill my life with your glory throughout the New Year.


16. Please, fill my mouth with laughter and give me a lot to dance and shout about in the 2015.


17. Lay your hands on your head and decree, you my head, you are destined to be the head anywhere you go. As from today, begin to take your headship position in Jesus name.


18. Father, I decree destruction upon every power magnetizing me away from your will, in the name of Jesus.


19. Father, in this year, make a way for me where people said there is no way.


20. Father, take your church to her next level of explosion.


21. Father, because I believe in you, let shame be far away from me in the name of Jesus.


22. Lift your hand to the Almighty and say, “Father, please lift me to such a height that no one can ever pull me down.”


23. Father, among the multitudes of people, single me out for miracles


24. Ask God to make His Power of Resurrection shake RCCG and make every dying life resurrect, in the name of Jesus.


25. Ask God to send His ultimate Power upon RCCG and revive every dead virtue in the name of Jesus. Matt 28:6.


26. Let the Power of Resurrection descend upon RCCG worldwide and rend every veil of sin and disobedience that is shielding people from favour Matt 27:51a.


27. Ask for the Power of God from heaven to go before His Church and grind every rock of opposition to powder, in the name of Jesus. Matt 25:51b.


28. Command the grave to receive the power of Resurrection and vomit every virtue of the Church swallowed by it. Matt 27: 52-53.


29. Let the ultimate power of God to do exploits in ministry rest upon all the Ministers in RCCG and transform them for good. Matt 28:18-19.


30. Ask the Lord for more grace and boldness to witness and win souls for Christ for every worker in RCCG. Matt 28:19.


31. Ask God to be merciful and release grace to say NO to sin into His Church. Ps 1:1-2


32. Ask the Lord Jesus, to have mercy and baptise His Church with grace to obey His voice, as sheep obeys the shepherd. Ps 23:11


33. Let the ability to be a disciple and to disciple others operate freely in every RCCG Church worker, from now. Matt 28:20


34. Ask the Lord to anoint all His children in RCCG and other living churches with the ability to abide in His teachings forever and to make heaven. Matt 28:20.


35. Ask God to arise on behalf of His church, and let every enemy of the Gospel be scattered.


36. Ask God to arise and let every pit dug for His servants swallow up the digger. Ps 35:7-8


37. Ask God to contend with those contending with the servants of God in RCCG. Isa 49:24-26


38. Pray that every enemy of revival in RCCG shall dry up from its roots, in Jesus’ Name.


39. Pray that the 40-day fasting shall be fruitful for all participants, their families, our Nations and the Church.


40. Pray for Open Heavens for showers of blessings and testimonies throughout the year.


41. Let us pray for bumper harvest of souls like never before this year.


42. Ask God to give you a new song in 2015.


43. Ask God for rapid and steady progress Ps.125:1-5


44. Ask God to bless your family more abundantly. Ps.128:1-6


45. Ask God for full restoration of losses of yesteryears. Joel.2:25-27; Ps. 126:1-6


46. Ask for the grace to become broken in God’s hands. Ps.15:1-6


47. Ask God to help you stop your leaking vessels. Ps.40:1-2


48. Pray to God to reward your holiness with blessings Ps.128:1-6


49. Thank God for full restoration Joel.2: 25-27; Ps.126:1-6


50. Thank God for answered prayers Ps. 20:1-9

Prayer for Daddy & Mummy G.O

1. Father, please pray for Your son the General Overseer, in this era of testimonies, increase his strength, anointing and wisdom in Jesus name.


2. Let us pray for Daddy and Mummy G.O that God will empower them the more to cope with their ministerial assignments in RCCG. Isa. 41:10-18


3. Let us pray that God in His mercy will silence every evil personality that is making the ministerial assignments uneasy for Daddy G.O. Ps.143:11-12


4. Let us pray that God will fortify the strength of Daddy and Mummy G O. Isa. 41:13-14.


5. Ask God to fortify Pastor E.A. Adeboye more with His ultimate Power.


6. Let us ask for God’s protection on Daddy G O’s family Ps 125:2


7. Let us ask God to contend with those contending with Pastor E. A. Adeboye and his family lsa.49:24-26.


8. Let us ask that God will baptise Pastor E. A. Adeboye and his family with the special anointing that automatically sends evil arrows back to their sender. Gen.12:3


9. Let us ask God to increase Daddy G.O and his family in all their endeavours. Isa. 60:22


10. Let us pray for Daddy G.O’s children that God will anoint them to fulfil destiny and also be in divine health. Ps.128:3


11. Let us ask for God’s special hand of favour to rest on Daddy and Mummy G.O. that they will flourish and will never fall nor fail in life. Ps.27:1


12. Let us pray that God will help Daddy and Mummy G O to finish strong in God’s own time. Ps.90


13. Let us pray for Daddy and Mummy G.O that God will help them to break more new grounds for RCCG worldwide.


14. Father, whenever Daddy and Mummy G.O call unto you, please answer them.

PRAYER GUIDE FOR RCCG 2015 40 DAYS FASTING AND PRAYER Read More

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - SUNDAY - 11/1/2015 - THE DAY OF FAVOUR - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

THE DAY OF FAVOUR

MEMORISE

For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.

Psalm 5:12

READ

Esther 5:1-3

 1 Now it came to pass on the third day, that Esther put on her royal apparel, and stood in the inner court of the king’s house, over against the king’s house: and the king sat upon his royal throne in the royal house, over against the gate of the house.

 2 And it was so, when the king saw Esther the queen standing in the court, that she obtained favour in his sight: and the king held out to Esther the golden sceptre that was in his hand. So Esther drew near, and touched the top of the sceptre.

 3 Then said the king unto her, What wilt thou, queen Esther? and what is thy request? it shall be even given thee to the half of the kingdom.

 MESSAGE

Queen Esther found favour in the sight of the king and she was promised blessings up to one half of the kingdom. There are lots of lessons in the passage before us. First of these is that the king’s eyes located Esther. 1 Samuel 16:11-13 tells us how favour located David while he was watching over the flock of his father. Mark 5:1-15 also narrates how favour located the mad man of Gadara in the graveyard. A sister who had been looking for a husband once attended a funeral service. In attendance also was a brother who had also been looking for a wife. On seeing her, he concluded that if the sister could look that beautiful in mourning clothes, she would look awesome when in high spirits. There and then, he concluded to go after her hand in marriage. This shows favour can locate you anywhere you are.

The king did not just see Esther, he focused on her. When your day of favour comes, God will not just glance at you, He will focus on you. The day favour beamed on the sick man at Bethesda, Jesus located him for healing (John 5:5-6). There was a man who had two doctorate decrees but could not get a job. When this man was brought to us he was unkempt as if he never attended school. We introduced him to Jesus and prayed with him. Before he got to his hometown that day, favour located him and people in his local government started looking for him with several job opportunities.

Another story of favour is that of a lady whose mother would not allow her to get married for fear of being neglected by her after marriage. After some words of prayer for this sister, there was deliverance. This sister had been in church for a long time, but when God’s favour located her, she suddenly got a suitor within one week. My prayer for you is that whatever is blocking the view of those who should favour you shall be removed this season in Jesus’ Name.

 The only obstacle to divine favour is unrighteousness. The Bible in Psalm 5:12 says:

 “For thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt thou compass him as with a shield.”

 I therefore appeal to you to surrender your life to Jesus Christ, the Saviour of mankind, and begin to live a life acceptable to God for divine favour.

PRAYER POINT

Father, please let your favour locate me for breakthrough today in Jesus’ Name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Isaiah 32:9-35:10;

Acts 7:23-43

 

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OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - FRIDAY - 09/1/2015 - THE WONDER WORKING PRAISE - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

The Wonder-Working Praise

Memorise

 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.

2 Chronicles 20:21

Read

2 Chronicles 20:21-24

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.

24 And when Judah came toward the watch tower in the wilderness, they looked unto the multitude, and, behold, they were dead bodies fallen to the earth, and none escaped.

MESSAGE

It’s a good thing to give thanks to the Lord (Psalm 92:1). One of the wonders of praise is that it ushers you into the presence of the Lord (Psalm 100:4). We know that in the presence of the Lord, there is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11). It’s impossible to be in the presence of God and remain the same.

The Bible speaks of so many weapons of spiritual warfare, but the most effective of them all is praise. The Lord revealed to me years ago that when you are praying and fasting or loosing and binding, you are doing the battle. But when you are praising God, the Lord will do the battle on your behalf. In 2 Chronicles 20:15-17, after three great kings formed an alliance to fight King Jehoshaphat, he, by the leading of the Spirit of God, realised that it was through high praises that he would win the battle. So he put up a mighty orchestra for the praise of God. As the singers were praising the Lord, the Lord took over the battle and fought on behalf of King Jehoshaphat. The enemies of King Jehoshaphat helped to destroy themselves, and the task left for Jehoshaphat was to collect the treasures the enemies left behind. I pray that God will fight on your behalf; you will possess the gates of your enemies and you will know peace in Jesus’ Name.

In Psalm 67:1-7, we read of what will happen when people praise the Lord. One of the wonders of praise is that the earth will yield her increase and God will bless His people. Another wonder of praise is that when the people see the magnitude of the blessings that God showers upon those who praise Him, the whole earth will fear Him. May the good Lord give you the type of blessing that will cause people to fear your God in Jesus’ Name. If you really want to go forward, increase and multiply, then you must know how to praise the Lord. There is this testimony of a couple who after twenty-two years of marriage had no child, until their pastor was led to tell them that they should fill their house with praise twenty-four hours of the day until further notice. Within three months of doing this by way of playing music of praise round the clock, the wife got pregnant and many years of waiting was brought to an end. To engage in effective praise for wonders, one must ensure that he lives righteously, because sinners cannot praise God acceptably (Proverbs 15:8).

Action Point

Set out quality time to praise the Lord today, and cultivate the habit of continuous qualitative worship of God in your life.

Bible in one year

Isaiah 27-29

Acts 6:1-7:2

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OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - FRIDAY - 09/1/2015 - THE WONDER WORKING PRAISE - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

The Wonder-Working Praise

Memorise

 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.

2 Chronicles 20:21

Read

2 Chronicles 20:21-24

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.

24 And when Judah came toward the watch tower in the wilderness, they looked unto the multitude, and, behold, they were dead bodies fallen to the earth, and none escaped.

MESSAGE

It’s a good thing to give thanks to the Lord (Psalm 92:1). One of the wonders of praise is that it ushers you into the presence of the Lord (Psalm 100:4). We know that in the presence of the Lord, there is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11). It’s impossible to be in the presence of God and remain the same.

The Bible speaks of so many weapons of spiritual warfare, but the most effective of them all is praise. The Lord revealed to me years ago that when you are praying and fasting or loosing and binding, you are doing the battle. But when you are praising God, the Lord will do the battle on your behalf. In 2 Chronicles 20:15-17, after three great kings formed an alliance to fight King Jehoshaphat, he, by the leading of the Spirit of God, realised that it was through high praises that he would win the battle. So he put up a mighty orchestra for the praise of God. As the singers were praising the Lord, the Lord took over the battle and fought on behalf of King Jehoshaphat. The enemies of King Jehoshaphat helped to destroy themselves, and the task left for Jehoshaphat was to collect the treasures the enemies left behind. I pray that God will fight on your behalf; you will possess the gates of your enemies and you will know peace in Jesus’ Name.

In Psalm 67:1-7, we read of what will happen when people praise the Lord. One of the wonders of praise is that the earth will yield her increase and God will bless His people. Another wonder of praise is that when the people see the magnitude of the blessings that God showers upon those who praise Him, the whole earth will fear Him. May the good Lord give you the type of blessing that will cause people to fear your God in Jesus’ Name. If you really want to go forward, increase and multiply, then you must know how to praise the Lord. There is this testimony of a couple who after twenty-two years of marriage had no child, until their pastor was led to tell them that they should fill their house with praise twenty-four hours of the day until further notice. Within three months of doing this by way of playing music of praise round the clock, the wife got pregnant and many years of waiting was brought to an end. To engage in effective praise for wonders, one must ensure that he lives righteously, because sinners cannot praise God acceptably (Proverbs 15:8).

Action Point

Set out quality time to praise the Lord today, and cultivate the habit of continuous qualitative worship of God in your life.

Bible in one year

Isaiah 27-29

Acts 6:1-7:2

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OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL - THURSDAY - 08/1/2015 - THE WONDER WORKING PRAYER - BY PASTOR E.A. ADEBOYE

THE WONDER WORKING PRAYER

MEMORISE

But Peter put them all forth, and kneeled down, and prayed; and turning him to the body said, Tabitha, arise. And she opened her eyes: and she saw Peter, she sat up.

ACTS 9 : 40.

READ

MARK 9 : 20 – 29.

20 And they brought him unto him: and when he saw him, straightway the spirit tare him; and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming.

21 And he asked his father, How long is it ago since this came unto him? And he said, Of a child.

22 And ofttimes it hath cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him: but if thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us, and help us.

23 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.

25 When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.

26 And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead.

27 But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose.

28 And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?

29 And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting

MESSAGE

The Bible in Philippians 4 : 6 enjoins us not to be anxious for anything, but rather to make our requests known to God through prayer and supplication sandwiched with thanksgiving. The result of this spiritual exercise is found in Philippians 4 : 7 :

” And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.”

This is the wonder of an effective Christian Prayer life.

Our Bible text reveals that prayer can work wonder beyond our widest imagination. It also reveals the inevitability of prayer in our lives. If Jesus could do nothing without prayer, then we should not think that an effective prayer life is optional in our Christian walk. When the apostles wondered why they could not cast out the demons in a demon-possessed boy, Jesus in Mark 9 : 29 simply told them that it was due to lack of prayer and fasting. James 4 : 2 reveals that many children of God are guilty of negligence in prayer. Some of them even become envious of those who take out time to pray to God concerning their needs. They fail to realise that it is prayer that can solve the problem of lack, and not envy. Like the elder brother of the prodigal son, they are zealous in the work of God but fail to make their requests known to God. They end up becoming envious. The elder brother of the prodigal son even falsely accused his father of partiality. But the father replied that all that he had was his ( Luke 15 : 31 ). The problem with this son was that he would not ask.

After I was commissioned as the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, I travelled to my home town. On getting there, one of the request put forward to me was about the access road into the town; as at that time, the road was in a deplorable state. Humanly speaking, it was an expensive project for a pastor to undertake. So I looked up in prayer to the God who called me, just like the Psalmist did in Psalm 121 : 1 – 2 :

” I WILL lift up mine eyes unto the hills, from whence cometh my help. My help cometh from the LORD, which made heaven and earth.”

The Lord answered my simple prayer a few weeks after my visit. He moved the government to award a contract that got the road fixed.

KEY POINT

Ask and it shall be given; seek, and you shall find; knock, and the door shall be opened unto you.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

ISAIAH 23 – 26

ACTS 5 : 22 – 42.

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