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Friday 30 March 2018

Open Heavens Daily Devotional - What Is The Value Of Your Life?

Open Heavens Daily Devotional by Pastor E.A Adeboye
Date: Saturday, 31 March, 2018
Topic: What Is The Value Of Your Life?

Memorise: “So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.” – Psalm 90:12

Read: Genesis 5:21-24 (KJV)

21 And Enoch lived sixty and five years, and begat Methuselah:

22 And Enoch walked with God after he begat Methuselah three hundred years, and begat sons and daughters:

23 And all the days of Enoch were three hundred sixty and five years:

24 And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him.

Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 28, Philippians 2.

MESSAGE:

The value of a man’s life is not dependent on the number of years he spends on earth, and neither is it dependent on the amount of goods that he possesses. The value of a man’s life has to do with what he does with his life in appreciation of the benevolence of his Maker, who is also the Redeemer of his soul. The wisdom of God in Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 says:

“13 Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. 14 For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.”

According to the above scripture, the value or quality of a man’s life is based upon the service he renders to his Maker in obedience to His commands. God hates a life of disobedience. He likens disobedience to the sin of idolatry (1 Samuel 15:23). Reading through the Bible, you will discover that idolatry is passionately abhorred by God with a promise of severe punishment to the fourth generation of those found guilty of it (Exodus 20:5).

Some people erroneously think that the amount of material possessions they have determines the value of their life. For this reason, they struggle at all costs to get rich, even to the extent of abandoning the pursuit of eternal life. Eventually, they end up frustrated and in serious agony. How I wish such people would listen to these words of Jesus in Luke 12:15:

“…Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man’s life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth.”

The Lord Jesus Christ admonished His audience to labour for things that have eternal value (John 6:27). They in turn asked Him what works they must do in order to do the works of God. Here is His answer to them in John 6:29:

“…This is the work of God, that ye believe on him whom he hath sent.”

This is the only way our labour in life will have value and meaning. Any labour you put up that will not further your cause of having eternal life in God’s Kingdom is an exercise in futility. Believing in Jesus Christ and the work of redemption He did for all mankind is a great work of faith that will add value to your life, which transcends this present life. Enoch’s life was so valuable to God that God decided to personally come to take him to Himself. He did not send any of His angels on this assignment because of the value He placed on Enoch. Such a life is worthy of emulation. I encourage you to determine to add value to your life by believing in the Lord Jesus Christ and by living a life of obedience to God in truth.

Key Point: The worth of a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of things that he has.

Hymn 12: Take My Life, And Let It Be

1.Take my life and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in endless praise,
Let them flow in endless praise.

2.Take my hands and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love.
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee,
Swift and beautiful for Thee.

3.Take my voice and let me sing,
Always, only for my King.
Take my lips and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee,
Filled with messages from Thee.

4. Take my silver and my gold,
Not a mite would I withhold.
Take my intellect and use
Every pow’r as Thou shalt choose,
Every pow’r as Thou shalt choose.

5. Take my will and make it Thine,
It shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart, it is Thine own,
It shall be Thy royal throne,
It shall be Thy royal throne.

6. Take my love, my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure store.
Take myself and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee,
Ever, only, all for Thee.

Thursday 29 March 2018

Open Heavens Daily Devotional - The Living Faith

Open Heavens Daily Devotional by Pastor E.A Adeboye
Date: Friday, 30 March, 2018
Topuc: The Living Faith

Memorise: “Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.” – Hebrews 11:1

Read: James 2:17-26 (KJV)

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

18 Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.

19 Thou believest that there is one God; thou doest well: the devils also believe, and tremble.

20 But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?

21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar?

22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect?

23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.

24 Ye see then how that by works a man is justified, and not by faith only.

25 Likewise also was not Rahab the harlot justified by works, when she had received the messengers, and had sent them out another way?

26 For as the body without the spirit is dead, so faith without works is dead also.

Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 25-27, Philippians 1.

MESSAGE:

The title of today’s devotional presupposes at least two categories of faith: living and dead faith. In James 2:17-26, the Holy Spirit confirms to us that there is indeed dead faith, and He also teaches us what makes faith have life. My prayer for you is that any aspect of your faith that is dead will come alive today in Jesus’ Name. Is it not amazing that faith, as powerful as it is, cannot stand on its own without works? This is not contestable, because it is the word of God. James 2:18 puts it this way:

“Yea, a man may say, Thou hast faith, and I have works: shew me thy faith without thy works, and I will shew thee my faith by my works.”

Faith sees into the invisible and beholds what the Almighty is capable of doing. While the act of exercising faith can spur God into action, there is also an obligation on the part of the one exercising faith. This obligation is the work of faith which we are talking about today. Without this, faith is seen to be lifeless. Apostle James expounded on this truth with the classical example of the father of faith, Abraham:

“21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works, when he had offered Isaac his son upon the altar? 22 Seest thou how faith wrought with his works, and by works was faith made perfect? 23 And the scripture was fulfilled which saith, Abraham believed God, and it was imputed unto him for righteousness: and he was called the Friend of God.” – James 2:21-23

Beloved, what would have been left of Abraham’s walk of faith if he had refused when God asked him to offer his only son, Isaac, as a burnt offering? Thank God Abraham acted on the demand of God. In response to the demonstration of his faith that had moved from theory to practical, God said to Abraham:

“…Lay not thine hand upon the lad, neither do thou any thing unto him: for now I know that thou fearest God, seeing thou hast not withheld thy son, thine only son from me.”Genesis 22:12

After all the time that Abraham had been walking with God, why did God say “It’s now I know you fear Me”? It’s because his works had collided with his faith, which then came alive and became substantial. Beloved, do you have living faith in God?

Prayer Point: Father, please impart in my spirit the living faith that pleases You in practical terms from today, in Jesus’ Name.

Hymn 5: I Have Decided To Follow Jesus

1. I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
No turning back, no turning back.

2. The world behind me, the cross before me;
The world behind me, the cross before me;
The world behind me, the cross before me;
No turning back, no turning back.

3. Though none go with me, I still will follow;
Though none go with me, I still will follow;
Though none go with me, I still will follow
No turning back, no turning back.

4. My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus;
My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus;
My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus;
No turning back, no turning back.

5. Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
No turning back, no turning back.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional - Time For Everything

Open Heavens Daily Devotional by Pastor E.A Adeboye
Date: Thursday, 29 March, 2018
Topic: Time For Everything

Memorise: “He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.” – Psalm 126:6

Read: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8 (KJV)

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.

Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 23-24, Ephesians 6.

MESSAGE:

Our loving Father commanded His prophets and apostles of old to record the words of the Bible so that through these sacred writings, we may live profitable lives to Him, ourselves and to all of humanity in general. The wisdom of God manifested in these writings can make us wise, if we apply our hearts to His teachings. This wisdom speaks to us in Ecclesiastes 3:1 saying,

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

When a man knows the appropriate time to act and not to act, he is considered wise. It is profitable for the children of God to be observant of times and seasons so that they are not found to be labouring against the divine timetable. Our memory verse speaks of the time of sowing, which is often not as pleasant as the time of reaping, even though there is an assurance for the sower that in the time of harvest there shall be rejoicing. In other words, the Bible teaches us to endure in the time of sowing so that there could be a time of harvest. Consequently, if there is no sowing, there will be no reaping. It takes the grace and wisdom of God for us to know the correct time of sowing and the correct time of reaping. It is calamitous for a man to be sleeping when he should be reaping, because his harvest would have been wasted before he wakes up from his slumber. On the other hand, if by the time you ought to be sowing you are sleeping, at the time of harvest you would have nothing to reap.

Timing is so important that there is even a time to speak and a time to be silent. There is a thought provoking message that sounds paradoxical but is perfect in wisdom, found in Proverbs 26:4-5:

“4 Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him. 5 Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.”

In other words, although not speaking out during an argument is wise and virtuous, it becomes a vice when there is a need to speak out and you keep your mouth shut. At such times, silence insinuates consent or denial of the truth. Our Lord Jesus Christ kept mute in the face of malicious and unfounded allegations against Him until He was asked if He was the King of the Jews and if He was the Christ (Matthew 27:11, Luke 22:67-70). To these questions, He answered in the affirmative. He could not have denied who He was because that would have contradicted or negated the Scripture. As a born-again Christian, do you deny or refuse to affirm who you are in front of friends and colleagues? Ask God for forgiveness and begin to take a stand for your faith.

Prayer Point: Father, please give me wisdom that will make me accurately discern the right time and season for all things.

HYMN 15: NEARER MY GOD TO THEE

1. Nearer, my God to Thee,
Nearer to Thee!
E’en though it be a cross
That raiseth me,
Still all my song shall be.
Nearer, my God to Thee!
Nearer, my God to Thee!
Nearer to Thee!

2. Though like the wanderer,
The sun gone down.
Darkness be over me,
My rest a stone.
Yet in my dreams I’d be
Nearer, my God to Thee!
Nearer, my God to Thee!
Nearer to Thee!

3. There let the way appear
Steps unto heaven;
All that Thou send’st to me
In mercy given:
Angels to beckon me
Nearer, my God, to Thee!
Nearer, my God to Thee!
Nearer to Thee!

4. Then, with my waking thoughts
Bright with Thy praise,
Out of my stony griefs
Bethel I’ll raise
So by my woes to be
Nearer, my God, to Thee!
Nearer, my God to Thee!
Nearer to Thee!

Wednesday 28 March 2018

Open Heavens Daily Devotional - The Belated Offering

Open Heavens Daily Devotional by Pastor E.A Adeboye
Date: Wednesday 28 March 2018
Topic: The Belated Offering

Memorise: “As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” – Galatians 6:10 (Scroll down for Open Heavens Hymn)

Read: Mark 16:1-7 (KJV)

1 And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.

2 And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.

3 And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?

4 And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great.

5 And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.

6 And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.

7 But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.

Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 21-22, Ephesians 5.

MESSAGE:

A belated offering is a worthy present that is offered a little too late. A perfect example of this is found in Mark 16:1:

“And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.”

These women had real love for Jesus. They followed Him everywhere He went as part of His disciples, and they catered to His needs. They were there at His crucifixion and even stayed behind to see where He was buried (Luke 23:55-56). After observing His burial place, they combined resources to invest in preparing sweet spices for the purpose of anointing His body in the grave. Sadly enough, it turned out to be a belated offering: a wasted effort that didn’t serve the intended purpose and a colossal disappointment. Indeed, it was the news of the resurrected Lord that served as their consolation. As children of God, we must avoid coming late to the presence of God or delaying our praise, worship and service to God beyond the appointed time; neither should we offer our vows, first fruits, tithes or special offerings belatedly.

Many years ago, at the inception of the Redemption Camp building project, I told one of my sons of the need to urgently carry out an assignment that God would want Him to handle. He responded that he would go and pray about it over the weekend and then feed me back. As soon as he walked out of my office, God brought someone else who accepted the responsibility and immediately went to work, finishing the assignment in record time. My son came in early the following week to announce his readiness to do the work. He was dazed when I told him the project had been completed by someone else, and he saw the evidence of this. He learnt his lesson that day and has never allowed such opportunities slip through his hands since then. I pray that you and your offerings will be acceptable to God in Jesus’ Name. The terrible thing about a belated offering is that it is always an opportunity lost that may never be regained. Esau carelessly lost the opportunity of a lifetime, and although he later sought it carefully with tears, it was impossible to reverse the situation. Hebrews 12:17 says,

“For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.”

Please don’t let this be your story. God bless you.

Prayer Point: Father, restore to me every missed opportunity of giving that will provoke the release of a breakthrough blessing from You in Jesus’ Name.

Hymn 12: Take My Life, And Let It Be

1.Take my life and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in endless praise,
Let them flow in endless praise.

2.Take my hands and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love.
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee,
Swift and beautiful for Thee.

3.Take my voice and let me sing,
Always, only for my King.
Take my lips and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee,
Filled with messages from Thee.

4. Take my silver and my gold,
Not a mite would I withhold.
Take my intellect and use
Every pow’r as Thou shalt choose,
Every pow’r as Thou shalt choose.

5. Take my will and make it Thine,
It shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart, it is Thine own,
It shall be Thy royal throne,
It shall be Thy royal throne.

6. Take my love, my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure store.
Take myself and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee,
Ever, only, all for Thee.

Tuesday 27 March 2018

Open Heavens Daily Devotional - The Timely Offering

Open Heavens Daily Devotional by Pastor E.A Adeboye
Date: Tuesday 27th March 2018
Topic: The Timely Offering

Memorise: “Thou shalt not delay to offer the first of thy ripe fruits, and of thy liquors:” – Exodus 22:29a

Read: Matthew 26:6-13 (KJV)

6 Now when Jesus was in Bethany, in the house of Simon the leper,

7 There came unto him a woman having an alabaster box of very precious ointment, and poured it on his head, as he sat at meat.

8 But when his disciples saw it, they had indignation, saying, To what purpose is this waste?

9 For this ointment might have been sold for much, and given to the poor.

10 When Jesus understood it, he said unto them, Why trouble ye the woman? for she hath wrought a good work upon me.

11 For ye have the poor always with you; but me ye have not always.

12 For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial.

13 Verily I say unto you, Wheresoever this gospel shall be preached in the whole world, there shall also this, that this woman hath done, be told for a memorial of her.

Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 18-20, Ephesians 4.

MESSAGE:

What is a timely offering? It is a worthy gift that is offered to God at the right time. People who offer timely offering are always inspired or motivated to do so by unseen divine power. Such people usually tell stories of a strong inner influence encouraging them to do a worthy deed, particularly in the house of God in support of His work. Today’s Bible reading gives us a perfect example of a timely offering. A few days to the very weekend that Jesus was arrested and crucified, a woman was motivated by the Holy Spirit to anoint Him with a very precious ointment. In the presence of the disciples and a few guests, she poured an alabaster box of very precious ointment on His head. The disciples responded with anger because they could not understand the reason for action, but Jesus explained it to them in Matthew 26:2:

“For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial.”

Just as Jesus said, this woman’s precious ointment was the only perfume that He had on His body throughout His three-day sojourn in the grave. After His death, by the time some women arrived in the morning of the third day to anoint His body, it was too late because Jesus had already risen from the grave (Luke 23:55-24:3). The woman who did this good work received her due reward, stated in Matthew 26:13. You will receive your due reward for obedience in Jesus’ Name.

God is not only interested in your obedience; He is also interested in your timely obedience, according to today’s memory verse. God wants you to render to Him on time the first portion of your produce which has been set aside for Him. He wants you to honour Him with one tenth of your income and bring all your offerings without delay. Delayed offerings are not acceptable to God. In our service to God, He demands our punctuality. Be faithful in attending the teaching and preaching sessions in your church. Arrive on time, appropriately dressed and ready to make meaningful contributions toward the effectiveness of all that is going on. Be faithful in the giving of your time, talents, and in rendering other services to God. There is something about rising early to praise and worship God as exemplified by the life of David (Psalm 57:8-9, Psalm 63:1). Whatever you have decided to do for God, do it on time. He is interested in the timing of your actions. Proverbs 8:17 says,

“I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.”

Abraham, David, Solomon, and other God lovers in the Bible always rendered anything they have to offer to God promptly and without delay, because only a timely offering is acceptable to God.

Prayer Point: Father, grant me grace to yield to the prompting of the Holy Spirit to give timely offerings that will release a reward from heaven in Jesus’ Name.

Hymn 12: Take My Life, And Let It Be

1.Take my life and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in endless praise,
Let them flow in endless praise.

2.Take my hands and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love.
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee,
Swift and beautiful for Thee.

3.Take my voice and let me sing,
Always, only for my King.
Take my lips and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee,
Filled with messages from Thee.

4. Take my silver and my gold,
Not a mite would I withhold.
Take my intellect and use
Every pow’r as Thou shalt choose,
Every pow’r as Thou shalt choose.

5. Take my will and make it Thine,
It shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart, it is Thine own,
It shall be Thy royal throne,
It shall be Thy royal throne.

6. Take my love, my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure store.
Take myself and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee,
Ever, only, all for Thee.

Monday 26 March 2018

Open Heavens Daily Devotional - Signs Of The End Times II

Open Heavens Daily Devotional by pastor Ẹ A Adeboye
Date: 26th March 2018 Monday
Topic: Signs of The End Times II

Memorise: “But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that that day should overtake you as a thief.” – 1 Thessalonians 5:4 (Scroll down for Open Heavens Hymn)

Read: 2 Peter 3:10-14 (KJV)

10 But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

11 Seeing then that all these things shall be dissolved, what manner of persons ought ye to be in all holy conversation and godliness,

12 Looking for and hasting unto the coming of the day of God, wherein the heavens being on fire shall be dissolved, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat?

13 Nevertheless we, according to his promise, look for new heavens and a new earth, wherein dwelleth righteousness.

14 Wherefore, beloved, seeing that ye look for such things, be diligent that ye may be found of him in peace, without spot, and blameless.

Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 16-17, Ephesians 3.

MESSAGE:

Although the events that will herald the second coming of Christ are disturbing and could even be frightening, our Lord did not forewarn of these events in order to frighten or terrify us. His purpose was to prepare and empower us with the right attitude and mindset. Based on yesterday’s study, since it is obvious that we are now in the end times, we will be considering the instructions that the Lord gave to us on how to live in these last days. The Lord instructed us to watch out so that we are not deceived by anyone (Matthew 24:4). This warning should be taken seriously as it is increasingly becoming difficult to focus on the message of the gospel. Some false prophets, hiding under the cloak of possessing special revelations, are peddling new doctrines that have no foundation in the Bible. Many issues that are clearly stated in the Bible, such as those relating to salvation, sexual orientation, abortion, divorce and remarriage, termination of life on request, tithing and the giving of first fruits are now being presented in ways that are contrary to the word of God. Do not be deceived, but rather hold on to the true word of God in all situations.

As we read about the signs and observe their fulfilment, we should not be alarmed, because they must happen. Having foreknowledge of their occurrence should remove the element of surprise that may affect those who are uninformed. We are to use our knowledge to our advantage by standing firm to the very end. Our knowledge should also motivate us to continue preaching the gospel throughout the world, warning all men about the reality of the second coming of the Lord and the impending danger of ignoring this warning. We must be well prepared for the persecution that may come in form of government laws and regulations, or as conditions to be met in order to have access to certain benefits. Our duty is to watch continually for our Lord’s second coming. He repeatedly stressed that His coming, though certain, would happen when people least expect it to. As His bride, we are to continually stir ourselves up to be ready for His coming at any time. Frequent reflection on Christ’s beauty, love, mercy, glory and honour, in addition to a lifestyle of praise and worship will help to cultivate a readiness to meet Jesus in the air. Aggressive evangelism in our families and communities will also help to increase our readiness for Christ’s coming. We must actively strive against worldliness because a worldly mindset is contrary to a watchful spirit. Finally, we must pray for the coming of the Lord according to Revelation 22:17:

“And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”

Action Point: Assess your readiness for the coming persecution of believers, and for the return of the Lord.

Hymn 9: The Old Rugged Cross

1. On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suff’ring and shame;
And I love that old cross where the Dearest and Best
For a world of lost sinners was slain.

Chorus:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it someday for a crown.

2. Oh, that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
Has a wondrous attraction for me;
For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary.

3. In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me.

4.To the old rugged cross I will ever be true;
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then He’ll call me someday to my home far away,

Saturday 24 March 2018

Lesson 30: A Happy Marriage

RCCG Sunday School STUDENTS Manual Date: Sunday March 25th, 2018
Topic: Lesson 30 —A Happy Marriage

MEMORY VERSE: ‘’Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the LORD” – Proverbs 18:22 (scroll down for SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN)

BIBLE PASSAGE: 1 Corinthians 7:1-15

1 Now concerning the things whereof ye wrote unto me: It is good for a man not to touch a woman.

2 Nevertheless, to avoid fornication, let every man have his own wife, and let every woman have her own husband.

3 Let the husband render unto the wife due benevolence: and likewise also the wife unto the husband.

4 The wife hath not power of her own body, but the husband: and likewise also the husband hath not power of his own body, but the wife.

5 Defraud ye not one the other, except it be with consent for a time, that ye may give yourselves to fasting and prayer; and come together again, that Satan tempt you not for your incontinency.

6 But I speak this by permission, and not of commandment.

7 For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that.

8 I say therefore to the unmarried and widows, It is good for them if they abide even as I.

9 But if they cannot contain, let them marry: for it is better to marry than to burn.

10 And unto the married I command, yet not I, but the Lord, Let not the wife depart from her husband:

11 But and if she depart, let her remain unmarried, or be reconciled to her husband: and let not the husband put away his wife.

12 But to the rest speak I, not the Lord: If any brother hath a wife that believeth not, and she be pleased to dwell with him, let him not put her away.

13 And the woman which hath an husband that believeth not, and if he be pleased to dwell with her, let her not leave him.

14 For the unbelieving husband is sanctified by the wife, and the unbelieving wife is sanctified by the husband: else were your children unclean; but now are they holy.

15 But if the unbelieving depart, let him depart. A brother or a sister is not under bondage in such cases: but God hath called us to peace.

INTRODUCTION:

There are seasons and times for everything and every purpose in life (Ecclesiastes 3:1). Like in every other facet of human endeavour, doing the right thing at the right time, in marital issues, is crucial to success. Many people have entered the institution of marriage at the wrong time and for the wrong reasons. Believers in Christ should be different and get it right from the onset. When should a Christian marry? What makes a happy marriage? These questions will be addressed in this lesson.

LESSON OUTLINES
1. When should a Christian marry?
2. What makes a happy marriage?

WHEN SHOULD A CHRISTIAN MARRY?

1. Wait until you are old enough to marry. Marriage is for adults and not for children, for it carries heavy responsibilities requiring maturity and experience (1Corinthians 7:36; Hebrews 5:14).

2. Let God guide you into marriage after much prayer and seeking His will (Romans 12:2; Philippians 2:13).

3. Do not rush into marriage even after you know whom God wants you to marry. It is always advisable to know your partner sufficiently well to know his or her dislikes (Isaiah 28:16).

4. Never marry a man or a woman with the hope of reforming or transforming him or her. Instead of reforming they may drag you to hell. Therefore, wait until any moral problems are settled (1Corinthians 10:12).

5. Wait for health. Marriage requires strong bodies. If your partner is unwell, jointly pray for healing from above (Jeremiah 30:17).

6. Wait for the approval of the girl’s parent. This is very important. A Christian should not “steal” a wife (Isaiah 28:16; Colossians 3:20).

7. Wait for a measure of financial stability. Not wealth as such but at least some security (1 Timothy 5:8).

WHAT MAKES A HAPPY MARRIAGE?

To the couple planning to get married, courtship should be handled carefully. It is a time of getting better acquainted and ascertaining whether or not they are prepared for marriage. It is very important to note that they must not take liberties one with another at this time, for they are not yet married (1 Corinthians 8:9). Avoid petting and caressing lest passion override reason and you ruin everything. Keep yourself pure or you may discover how easily love can turn to hate (2 Samuel 13:15). Any mistake made during courtship can stamp a regrettable mark on the marriage, if it eventually holds.

A happy and successful marriage is based on genuine heart agreement of the couple (Amos 3:3). They must be willing to establish a Christian home with Christ as the Chief Cornerstone (Ephesians 2:20), the husband as head of the home (Ephesians 5:23-24), the wife a pleasant helpmate (Genesis 2:18) and with the family altar (Matthew 18:19). They must not defraud one another, rather they should render full benevolence to each other (1 Corinthians 7:3-5). Genuine love is essential to a happy marriage (1 Corinthians 13:4-8; Ephesians 5:25; Titus 2:4).

CONCLUSION:
Marriage is not an experiment for a short time. It is permanent. It must be based on lifetime anticipation, “till death do us part” – Matthew 19:6-9.

QUESTIONS
1. When should a Christian marry?
2. What makes a happy marriage?

Click to read previous RCCG Sunday School STUDENTS Manual March 18th, 2018 Lesson 29 — Martial Intimacy: The Perspective Of Christ And The Church

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN

1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day, Thy friendship suits me well,
Both young and old will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee.

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

Open Heavens Daily Devotional - Signs Of The End Times I

Open Heavens Daily Devotional by Pastor E.A Adeboye
Date: Sunday 25 March 2018  Pastor Topic: Signs of The End Times I

Memorise: “Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh” – Matthew 24:5 (Scroll down for Open Heavens Hymn)

Read: Matthew 24:1-13 (KJV)

1 And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple.

2 And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.

3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?

4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.

5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.

6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.

7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.

8 All these are the beginning of sorrows.

9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake.

10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.

11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.

12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.

13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.

Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 13-15, Ephesians 2.

MESSAGE:

While Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives, His disciples came to Him privately to ask what has now become a recurring question: “What shall be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the world?” Even scientists today are interested in knowing if and how the world will end. In response to their question, the Lord took it upon Himself to outline to anyone who will care to listen, the signs and significant historical events that would herald His second coming and that will eventually lead us to the end of the world. A diligent study of Matthew 24:4-28 reveals about thirty signs of the end times, and the most prominent of these are the appearance of the deceivers and impostors, wars and rumours of wars, famine, earthquake and natural disasters, the hatred of Christians around the world leading to persecution and martyrdom, many renouncing their faith in Christ, the love of many waxing cold, the rise of many false prophets performing signs and wonders, the sun and moon getting darkened, and people living a carefree life just as it was in the days of Noah.

In the last few decades, we have witnessed the appearance of deceivers and impostors of the Lord Jesus Christ in different parts of the world. Some famous ones have succeeded in leading people astray, even to the point of committing mass suicide. Civil unrest, rumours of war, terrorism and full-scale wars have been constant news items for years now. The occurrence of earthquakes, hurricanes, tornadoes and other natural disasters have been on the increase in the last few years. It is sad to hear of and witness the unbelievable level of persecution and martyrdom of Christians currently going on in several parts of the world. There has been leaked video footage of Christians being lined up and murdered in parts of Africa and Middle East. Several governments, including those of western world, are now making laws that are hostile to the Christian faith. In some countries, Christians are being pressurised to perform activities that are contrary to their faith. Some Christians have even caved in under pressure to renounce their faith. False prophets in various forms are showing up everywhere on the surface of the earth. They all claim to be representing the Lord Jesus. Some of them display the gift of revelation and prophecy, even performing convincing miracles. They usually give themselves off as false prophets because their works and lifestyle are not consistent with the image of he Lord Jesus Christ. Despite the abundant evidence that the time of the Lord’s coming is near, most people in the world are still living carefree lives, just as it was in the days of Noah. Unsurprisingly, everything is playing out according to the warning and prophesies of our Lord. Therefore, be alert! The trumpet could sound any moment from now. Are you prepared to meet your Creator?

Prayer Point: Father, making heaven at last is my goal. Please help me actualise this in Jesus’ Name.

Hymn 9: The Old Rugged Cross

1. On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suff’ring and shame;
And I love that old cross where the Dearest and Best
For a world of lost sinners was slain.

Chorus:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it someday for a crown.

2. Oh, that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
Has a wondrous attraction for me;
For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary.

3. In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me.

4.To the old rugged cross I will ever be true;
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then He’ll call me someday to my home far away,
Where His glory forever I’ll share.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of

Open Heavens Daily Devotional - Lessons From The Ten Virgins

Open Heavens Daily Devotional by Pastor Ẹ A Adeboye
Date: Saturday 24 March 2018
Topic: Lessons From The Ten Virgins

Memorise: “Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh” – Matthew 25:13

Bible Reading: Matthew 25:1-13 (KJV)

1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.

2 And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.

3 They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:

4 But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.

5 While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.

6 And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.

7 Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.

8 And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.

9 But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.

10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.

11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.

12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 11-12, Ephesians 1.

MESSAGE:

In the Jewish culture and tradition, wedding festivities are usually held in the evening and run into the night. Typically, the bridegroom would go to meet his bride in her father’s house with lamps, and the bridal train would proceed from the bride’s father’s house to the groom’s house, where a feast would be provided for the invited guests. It was against this backdrop that the Lord Jesus Christ gave the parable of the ten virgins. In general, the parable speaks of the second coming of our Lord and of the judgement that will accompany His return. In this parable, the Lord classified the people His message was targeted at into two groups: the wise and the foolish.

There are various lessons to be learnt from this parable of the ten virgins, especially because it contains a lot of symbolism with deep spiritual meanings. The virgins, lamp, oil, the absence of the bridegroom, slumbering and sleeping, the midnight, the cry, the trimming of lamps, having no oil, asking for oil, the refusal to give oil, entering into the feast, and several other aspect of the story represent different aspects of our Christian race to heaven. However, we will be considering just a few lessons behind some of these metaphors. The virgins represent the Church, while Jesus is the Bridegroom. The message of the parable is therefore for the Church and not for the world. We are warned in this parable that the Bridegroom may delay His coming. He may not come at the time we expect, but he will surely come at midnight, meaning that He will come suddenly and unexpectedly. Note that all the virgins who set out to meet the bridegroom dozed off and slept. The only thing that separated the wise virgins from the foolish ones was the level of their preparedness. The wise virgins took extra oil with them in anticipation of a delay in the bridegroom’s arrival, while the foolish ones failed in this regard. They obviously did not anticipate that the coming of the bridegroom could be so delayed. Their failure to take extra oil made the difference and determined their fate. The Lord will take only those who are ready at His coming into the marriage supper. The door will be shut against those who are not ready after the call has gone out, and it will not be opened to anyone who comes late.

The practical lesson of this parable therefore is the unexpected nature of the Lord’s Coming. We must be ever ready to meet the Lord. The lamps of our faith and Bible study must be kept burning all through the day and night. We must uphold and defend the truth in the word of God. We must not allow modern thinking and liberal theology to water down or pollute our faith. We must keep our focus on the message of the gospel as we continue to follow the footsteps of our Master, Jesus Christ.

Prayer Point: Father, please help me never to lose sight of Your second coming in Jesus’ Name.

Hymn 9: The Old Rugged Cross

1. On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
The emblem of suff’ring and shame;
And I love that old cross where the Dearest and Best
For a world of lost sinners was slain.

Chorus:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross,
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it someday for a crown.

2. Oh, that old rugged cross, so despised by the world,
Has a wondrous attraction for me;
For the dear Lamb of God left His glory above
To bear it to dark Calvary.

3. In that old rugged cross, stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ’twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me.

4.To the old rugged cross I will ever be true;
Its shame and reproach gladly bear;
Then He’ll call me someday to my home far away,
Where His glory forever I’ll share.

Friday 23 March 2018

Open Heavens Daily Devotional - The Temple Of God

Open Heavens Daily Devotional by Pastor E A Adeboye
Topic:The Temple Of God
Date:Friday 23 March 2018
Memorise: “What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?” – 1 Corinthians 6:19

Bible Reading : 1 Corinthians 6:12-20 (KJV)

12 All things are lawful unto me, but all things are not expedient: all things are lawful for me, but I will not be brought under the power of any.

13 Meats for the belly, and the belly for meats: but God shall destroy both it and them. Now the body is not for fornication, but for the Lord; and the Lord for the body.

14 And God hath both raised up the Lord, and will also raise up us by his own power.

15 Know ye not that your bodies are the members of Christ? shall I then take the members of Christ, and make them the members of an harlot? God forbid.

16 What? know ye not that he which is joined to an harlot is one body? for two, saith he, shall be one flesh.

17 But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.

18 Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body.

19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

20 For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.

Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 9-10, Galatians 5:16-6:18.

MESSAGE

From the beginning, God’s plan has always been to have continuous fellowship with mankind. Looking at God’s interactions with Adam and Eve in Genesis chapter 3, we see that He normally visited them at a certain time of the day to have fellowship with them. However, in the dispensation of the New Testament, because the Almighty has better things in store for us, He has chosen not to visit, but rather to dwell in us. How privilege and blessed we are! The Holy Spirit through Apostle Paul expounded on this truth in today’s Bible reading. As a Christian, you need to recognise that your body is the sacred dwelling place of the Almighty. You also need to know that because you have been redeemed by the precious Blood of Jesus, you have been purchased by God at a very high price. You therefore do not have any claim over your body anymore, and consequently, you have no right to pervert, misuse or engage your body in anything that is contrary to the will of God. God expects us to exercise responsible stewardship over our bodies. He expects us to do everything necessary to glorify Him with our bodies and make them suitable for His worship. 1 Corinthians 3:17 says,

“If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.”

This is an important statement with very serious implications. A lot of people in the world today, especially youths, view their body as theirs, and so they believe they can do anything they like with it. They have chosen to tread the path of defiling their bodies, which should be the temple of God, through ungodly lifestyles and association with evil companionship. Obviously, this is the reason why early death is trending upwards in the world today. Those who choose to abuse their bodies with unhealthy food, alcohol, sexual immorality, hard drugs and other dangerous substances usually fall sick and end up dying prematurely. Some develop emotional or psychological problems that eventually lead to instability, loss of sanity, depression and even suicide. Defiling your body has such terrible consequences. You need to trust God on His recommendations for the well-being of our body. Keep your body away from anything that can contaminate or pollute it. Don’t yield to any contrary peer group pressure. Those who keep their bodies pure are directly inviting the presence of God into their lives, and they will receive divine invitation from above. It is a great privilege and honour to embody the presence of the Almighty.

Action Point: Examine the people and things you have been granting access to your body: do they pass God’s purity test?

Hymn 12: Take My Life, And Let It Be.

1. Take my life and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee.
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in endless praise.

2. Take my hands and let them move
At the impulse of Thy love.
Take my feet and let them be
Swift and beautiful for Thee.

3. Take my voice and let me sing,
Always, only for my King.
Take my lips and let them be
Filled with messages from Thee.

4. Take my silver and my gold,
Not a mite would I withhold.
Take my intellect and use
Every power as Thou shalt choose.

5. Take my will and make it Thine,
It shall be no longer mine.
Take my heart, it is Thine own,
It shall be Thy royal throne.

6. Take my love, my Lord, I pour
At Thy feet its treasure store.
Take myself and I will be
Ever, only, all for Thee.

Thursday 22 March 2018

Open Heavens Daily Devotional - Necessity of Holy Living

Open Heavens Daily Devotional by pastor E. A Adeboye
Topic: Necessity Of Holy Living 
Date: Thursday 22 March 2018

Memorise: “But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation;” – 1 peter 1:15

Bible Reading: Hebrews 12:13-17 (KJV)

13 And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.

14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:

15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;

16 Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.

17 For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.

Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 7-8, Galatians 4:21-5:15.

MESSAGE

Today, we will be reflecting on the necessity of holy living to the success of our Christian journey. Looking at this topic through the eyes of the book of Leviticus helps us to better understand God’s mind-set concerning it. The book of Leviticus reveals the holiness of God and His love for His people in a way found nowhere else in the Bible. Today, this book is still calling on God’s people of all ages to embrace holiness as a way of life. In reality, holiness is the only kind of life approved by God. The purpose of Leviticus was to show the Israelites how to live in ritual and moral purity. Whenever they met God’s standard of purity, He approved of them, so much so that He came to live amongst them. However, whenever they forsook the lifestyle of holiness, He would in turn abandon them to the hands of their enemies. From the example of the children of Israel, it is obvious that holy living is necessary for a continuous, unbroken fellowship with the Almighty God.

To understand the necessity for holy living as a Christian, we have much to learn from the instructions on holy living in the book of Leviticus. First, we must understand something about God’s holiness. Leviticus 11:44 and 1 Peter 1:16 both contain the same message from God on holiness: “You have to be holy because I am holy.” Holiness is the nature of God, and because He cannot change, He remains holy forever. Since He cannot behold sin, it is therefore necessary that anyone who will come to Him must live holy (Habakkuk 1:13). Secondly, holy living becomes necessary when we consider the great price paid for our redemption from sin (1 Peter 1:18-19). As a true Christian, when you think about the agony, pain, deep sorrow and emotional trauma of the passion of Christ, you will not want to do anything that would amount to crucifying Him the second time. Thirdly, all Christians have the honourable duty of presenting only their best to God in every situation they find themselves. In light of this, Romans 12:1 tells us to present our bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God. You need to understand that the view of some that the salvation received when we become born again cannot be lost under any circumstance is at variance with the true message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 10:26 says:

“For if we sin wilfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins,”

Hence, a holy lifestyle is not an option, but rather a necessary condition for a successful Christian life.

Prayer Point: Father, help me walk in holiness as a lifestyle for the rest of my life in Jesus’ Name.

If you missed yesterday devotional, please click to read “Open Heavens 21st March 2018 Wednesday — Like Master, Like Disciple’’

HYMN 15: NEARER MY GOD TO THEE

1. Nearer, my God to Thee,
Nearer to Thee!
E’en though it be a cross
That raiseth me,
Still all my song shall be.
Nearer, my God to Thee!
Nearer, my God to Thee!
Nearer to Thee!

2. Though like the wanderer,
The sun gone down.
Darkness be over me,
My rest a stone.
Yet in my dreams I’d be
Nearer, my God to Thee!
Nearer, my God to Thee!
Nearer to Thee!

3. There let the way appear
Steps unto heaven;
All that Thou send’st to me
In mercy given:
Angels to beckon me
Nearer, my God, to Thee!
Nearer, my God to Thee!
Nearer to Thee!

4. Then, with my waking thoughts
Bright with Thy praise,
Out of my stony griefs
Bethel I’ll raise
So by my woes to be
Nearer, my God, to Thee!
Nearer, my God to Thee!
Nearer to Thee!

Wednesday 21 March 2018

Open Heavens Daily Devotional - Like Master, Like Disciple

Open Heavens Daily Devotional by Pastor E. A Adeboye
Date: Wednesday 21 March 2018 
Topic: Like Master, Like Disciple

Memorise: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.” – John 14:12

Bible Reading: Acts 4:8-14 (KJV)

8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,

9 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;

10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.

11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.

12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.

13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

14 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.

Bible in One Year: Deuteronomy 5-6, Galatians 4:1-20.

MESSAGE

Today’s memory verse focuses on one of the farewell statements of the Lord Jesus Christ that I consider to be of utmost importance to the Body of Christ today. This statement was addressed to anyone who believes in Jesus as the Messiah. Note that the mandate contained in this statement is not directed at the 12 disciples or any special group. It was not directed at bishops, pastors, prophets, evangelists or other “highly spiritual” Christians. Jesus was speaking to anyone who believes in Him, which means all Christians. Although all Christians claim to believe in Jesus, a vast majority are not even aware of this important mandate of the Master, while some others, due to unbelief, argue that it is impossible to walk in the reality of it. The word “works” in this mandate comprises of everything Jesus did during His whole earthly ministry. These include teaching, preaching, discipleship, miracles, signs and wonders. The question then is: are we Christians doing the works that Jesus did? The answer is obvious. May the Lord ignite the fire in His Church and wake us up to our responsibilities in Jesus’ Name.

Discipleship is the process of following Jesus Christ, serving Him and obeying Him in all things. Jesus encouraged His disciples to strive to become like Him so that they can represent Him in His absence (Mark 9:17-19, Matthew 10:25a). The template of discipleship instituted by the Lord demands that anyone who wants to be a true disciple must first deny himself or herself (Matthew 16:24). Self-denial is all about sacrificing personal interests and preferences to focus on the will of the Master only. The Christian race becomes very easy for anyone who is able to take this very importance step. Soon after I gave my life to Christ, the Lord helped me to give up my personal ambition of becoming the youngest occupant of the highest office in the academic world on the African continent. This decision helped me to commit the whole of my time, attention, money, and all other resources at my disposal to the service of God. It paid off, as the Lord took me from my humble beginnings to where I am today. The Lord says no one can serve two masters; every disciple is therefore expected to be totally committed to God and His kingdom business (Matthew 6:24). Doing the works of Jesus entails going out to proclaim the message of the gospel, and demonstrating acts of mercy, love and compassion around the world. Our message must be backed up with the manifestation of the power of the Holy Spirit in signs, wonders and miracles. We must win souls and disciple them to maturity. Nothing short of these is acceptable as the works of Jesus.

Prayer Point: Father, please grant me the grace to do greater works as mandated by Your Son, in Jesus’ Name.

HYMN 5: I Have Decided To Follow Jesus

1. I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
No turning back, no turning back.

2. The world behind me, the cross before me;
The world behind me, the cross before me;
The world behind me, the cross before me;
No turning back, no turning back.

3. Though none go with me, I still will follow;
Though none go with me, I still will follow;
Though none go with me, I still will follow
No turning back, no turning back.

4. My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus;
My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus;
My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus;
No turning back, no turning back.

5. Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
No turning back, no turning back.

Sunday 11 March 2018

Sunday School Students Manual:Lesson 28 - Marital Intimacy: The Man And His Wife

RCCG Sunday School Students Manual March 11th, 2018 Lesson 28 :
Topic — Marital Intimacy: The Man And His Wife

TOPIC — Marital Intimacy: The Man And His Wife

MEMORY VERSE: ‘’Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.” – Genesis 2:24

BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 2:23-25

23 And Adam said, This is now bone of my bones, and flesh of my flesh: she shall be called Woman, because she was taken out of Man.
24 Therefore shall a man leave his father and his mother, and shall cleave unto his wife: and they shall be one flesh.
25 And they were both Unclad, the man and his wife, and were not ashamed.

INTRODUCTION:

The intention of God for marriage is that the couple becomes one flesh (Mark 10:6-10). Marital intimacy, therefore, is the process that brings about the intended oneness in marriage. It involves bridging the gaps between the two worlds of the husband and wife until complete oneness is achieved physically, spiritually and emotionally. Oneness in marriage does not happen by default or by accident, but takes concerted and conscious effort of the two parties involved (1 Peter 3:.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. What brings about marital intimacy?
2. Communication is key

WHAT BRINGS ABOUT MARITAL INTIMACY

Acceptance: There is no perfect human (Mark 10:18). Therefore, the journey of marital intimacy begins by accepting the totality of your partner, including the strengths and the weaknesses (Genesis 2:23; Ephesians 5:28-29).

Agreement: It takes two to tango. Marital intimacy will be difficult to achieve with an unwilling partner (Ecclesiastes 4:9-11). Therefore, there is a need for the couple to agree on certain values of marriage (Amos 3:3) and set appropriate goals towards achieving them (Habakkuk 2:2-3).

Prioritising: If the marriage must not be hanging on the balance of marital instability, there is need to break ties with relationships and engagements that could compete for equal attention (Genesis 2:24). Make out more time for each other.

Service: Just as Jesus Christ cultivated the Church for the purpose of intimacy, couples must serve each other in love and reverence to achieve the intended goal of oneness (1Corinthians 10:24; Philippians 2:4). You will make sacrifices for each other (Ephesians 5:25). You must celebrate, comfort, cuddle and rebuke each other in love when necessary (Romans 12:15; SOS 1:13; 3:3-4).

COMMUNICATION IS KEY

A crucial key to intimacy in marriage is communication (Hebrews 13:16). Communication helps break down every wall of partition between a man and his wife and gives unhindered access to each other’s world. Effective communication breeds trust and transparency (Proverbs 8:7-8; 24:26), strengthen the cord of love (Romans 12:9) and breaks the backbone of assumption and suspicion. The line of communication must be open and unambiguous on any subject. Love, care, compliments, offences, rebukes, forgiveness, aspirations, ideas etc., must all be communicated timely and rightly (Proverbs 15:4, 13; 28:13). When the barrier of communication is out of the way, there is unity at the home front, thereby, paving way for love to flourish (Romans 14:19; Hebrews 10:24).

CONCLUSION:

Marital intimacy is no smooth ride and the experience differs with each couple. One partner might pay a higher price than the other but on the whole, it takes commitment and patience of the duo to arrive at ecstasy.

QUESTIONS

1. Mention five things that bring about marital intimacy.
2. What are the effects of good communication in marital intimacy?

Sunday 4 March 2018

Sunday School Students Manual: Lesson 27 - Essence of Marriage

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL MANUAL
LESSON TWENTY-SEVEN
SUNDAY, 4TH MARCH 2018
TOPIC: ESSENCE OF MARRIAGE
MEMORY VERSE: ‘’Marriage is honourable in all, and the bed undefiled: but whoremongers and adulterers God will judge” – Hebrews 13:4
BIBLE PASSAGE: Genesis 2:15-25
INTRODUCTION:
Marriage is the oldest human institution. It is older than the Church or any human government. Marriage has been ordained of the Lord for companionship and the procreation of the race. Marriage leads to the establishment of homes for children where happiness and joy can reign (Proverbs 18:22). Although we live in the days of low moral standards, when marriage vows are easily broken and divorce is considered common, God’s law and standard do not change. Any Christian who breaks his marriage vows is therefore playing with fire.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. Why should we marry?
2. Who should a Christian marry?
WHY SHOULD WE MARRY?
There are several reasons we should marry if we feel led by God to do so. Some of the reasons are:
a. To obey the command of God (Genesis 1:28; 2:24).
b. For fellowship (Genesis 2:18).
c. For partnership (Ecclesiastes 4:9-11). It takes to make “one flesh”. (Genesis 2:24).
d. To satisfy the sexual and emotional desires that are good, holy and legitimate but can only be satisfied in marriage (1Corinthians 7:2, 9).
e. For the propagation of the human race (Genesis 9:1).
WHO SHOULD A CHRISTIAN MARRY?
Christians may only marry Christians – 2Corinthians 6:14-17. In God’s sight, it is unacceptable for a godly person and ungodly one to be united in holy matrimony to be one flesh. How can they be one when one serves God, in holiness and righteousness, while the other serves sin and Satan? In 2Corinthians 6:14-17, we have six clear reasons a believer should not marry an unbeliever:
1. God’s command: ‘be ye not unequally yoked together with unbelievers’ (vs 14a).
2. Reghteousness has no fellowship with unrighteousness (vs 14b).
3. Light has no communion with darkness (vs 14c).
4. Christ has no concord with Belial (vs 15a).
5. Believers have no part with infidels (vs 15b).
6. God’s temple has no agreement with idols (vs 16a).
It is easy then to see that the question that naturally comes to mind is, how can this two set of people who are so different, form a true partnership and have joyful fellowship?
CONCLUSION:
Marriage is an honourable institution that believers must prayerfully and watchfully enter into. It is more of a spiritual affair than just being physical.
QUESTIONS
1. Why should we marry?
2. Who should a Christain marry?

Saturday 3 March 2018

Stronger Than Your Enemies: Give Me This Mountain

Friday, Special Holy Ghost Service, March 2, 2018.
Ministering: Pastor E.A Adeboye
Theme: Stronger than your Enemies Part 3

- Shall we lift our hands to the most high God and begin to worship His holy name, the beginning and the ending, worthy to be praised, worthy to be magnify, bless His holy name.
- Father, please don't let me miss my miracle tonight.

We are serving the God of miracles, I know yes, I know, we are serving a God of miracles, I know yes I know

Prophesy: Daddy says there is someone here today, He ask me to tell you, no more fruitless efforts.

Prophesy: Daddy ask me to tell someone, as hopeless as the situation may be now, before the sun rises, you will sing a new song

Prophesy: The Lord said the enemies taught there is no way for you to escape, Daddy said I will surprise your enemies.

Prophesy: Daddy said there is someone here you are hunger for the power of God, Daddy ask me to tell you, even by next Sunday, you will see evidence.

Prayer,
Father, in the mighty name of Jesus, every mountain blocking my way to Joy must move tonight

Topic: Give me this mountain
Text: Joshua 1d-13
Caleb didn't ask for soft landing, He didn't ask for a mountain that has no giant. Tonight, I want you to join your faith with mine and tell the Lord to give us a sea to cross. Exodus 14:21-28, if God will give us a sea to cross, the problem as big as a sea, the wind of the Holy spirit will blow and when the wind blows, suddenly, there will be a way where there is no way before. When the wind blows according to Acts 2:1-4, power came because Jesus told the disciples, you will see power when the Holy ghost come upon you. Power didn't come until the wind blew. Acts 3:1-8.
Acts 5:1-11, because the wind blew, power came, an ordinary fisherman issue a decree and it came to pass.
Acts 5:14-16, because the wind blew and power came, the shadow of an ordinary fisher man began to heal the sick.
Prayer
Father, give me a sea to cross and let your wind blow.

Give me this mountain could also mean, give me a wall to pull down. Are you at a standstill now, that is going to change before the sun rises. Amen. Have you been stagnant all this years because someone has become a wall in front of you, that wall will fall tonight. Amen, Joshua 6:20
Why will I ask God to give me a wall to pull down? So that I can have a divine visitation. No challenges, no miracles, no obstacles, no testimonies. Joshua 5:13-15, Joshua 5:13-15. Whenever there is a divine visitation, wombs that has been shut will be opened, Genesis 18:1-14, John 5:2-9, Mark 10:46-52, Mark 5:35-43

Prophesy: Daddy said somebody is here tonight, what you need is a brown new lungs, and He said you have already gotten it now.
Prophesy: Daddy said right now, He is distributing spare parts

Prayer
Father, if you are visiting two people tonight, let me be one of them, let me have a divine visitation tonight

Give me this mountain can mean give me a lion to fight. Judges 14:5-6

Prophesy: The Lord ask me to tell someone, those who are saying where is your God will soon be saying are you the only one serving God. Amen

Give me a lion so that your spirit can come heavily on me. Judges 15:14-15, 2 Timothy 1:7
Prayer
Father today every spirit of fear, drive out of me in the mighty name of Jesus

Give me this mountain can mean give me a Goliath and I will Kim Him, 1 Samuel 17: 42-51
Prophesy: The Lord say there is someone here today, among your classmate you are the least, the Lord ask me to tell you, and very soon you will be the greatest.

Prophesy: My daddy say, let the enemy try, they will never discover the secret of your success

Prophesy: The Lord said before the end of this month, the sound of music will return to your home. Amen

Why do I want you to give me a Goliath? So that the world may know there is power in your name,  Philippians 2:9-11,The world needs to know that there is a name that can uproot all mountains, Psalm 91:1-2. And this name works at any time, Psalm 46:1. You don't know the power in the name until you come face to face with Goliath and suddenly you call the name and you expect the unexpected to happen.
Prayer
Father, from now on, manifest the power in your name in my life.

Give me this mountain where there are giants could mean gather all my enemies together in one place, so that I can get rid of them once and for all. Daniel 6;1-52. You may not know it but you have enemies. Proverbs 16:7. There ate some enemies, they just have to go, they cannot change and you can't beg them, they need to go once and for all, so that for the rest of your life, nothing will hinder you. If you allow a single enemy to remain, that one will grow, have children and begin to multiply again. All your enemies will be dealt with tonight particularly those who call themselves your friends.
Prayer
Father, am your son and you are the Lord of host, gather all my enemies together and finish them all

And then Joshua made a statement, He said I have waited 45yeats, I can't wait any longer. For someone here tonight, as the Lord lives, no more waiting. Amen. Psalm 102:13

Prophesy: The Lord ask me to tell someone, one day not to long from now, you will tell your friends, I don't know the meaning of failure anymore.

Prophesy: The Lord said, you are contemplating doing something big for God through his son, he said go on until there is no more water in the ocean that is when your blessing will stop.

Prophesy: The Lord said the greatest financial breakthrough you have never experienced is coming your way but return 50% to God.
Prayer
Father, I want my breakthrough now

In conclusion, Caleb said, give me this mountain, if God just be with me, I will turn this obstacle to a miracle, all the giants, I will finish them all. How can you take up mountain? It is a matter of connection with God. If God be for me, who can be against me. Everyone who conquered death in the bible are those who had connections with God
Prayer
Father, don't let me be disassociated from you

Prayer points
1. Praise Him for life and for giving you access to be in a meeting like this
2. Father, let every sea part before me tonight
3. Father, let every hindering wall fall
4. Father subdue every lion under my feet
5. Father, let every Goliath in my family die and never rise again
6. Father, from now on, let me reign with you in perfect peace
7. Father, let my connection to you be established forever
Add your own personal request.

Thursday 1 March 2018

DAY 50: THURSDAY 1ST MARCH 2018

DAY 50: THURSDAY 1ST MARCH 2018
CONCLUDING PRAYERS
  • Appreciate God for answers granted to your all our prayers in this first lap.
  • Pray all manners of prayers of thanksgiving and praises cement all He has done AND WHAT HE WILL DO for you.
  • Thank God for giving you comprehensive victory already.
  • BLESS HIS HOLY NAME to empower you to join the train for the next round of fasting and prayer.
  • In Jesus Mighty Name we have prayed. ……………Amen.