April 30 – Jesus’ humility

There is a verse in the Bible, that I had hardly ever understood, at least in the way it was phrased in the King James Bible. This we see in Philippians 2v6. Put in context, we see that Philippians 2v5-7 says:

“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:

Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:

But made Himself of no reputation, and took upon Him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men:”

That is, Jesus, though being equal with God, did not see it as something to hold tight unto; nor something to cling to the privileges of its status; nor something to be eagerly held unto or retained. Reminds me of the imagine, if only they knew who I was mentality that we often have. We see this even in action when Jesus was on earth, where in the book of John it says:

“Jesus, knowing that the Father had given all things into His hands, and that He was come from God, and went to God;

He riseth from supper, … and began to wash the disciple’s feet …” John 13v3-5

Knowing full well who He was, and where He was going to in a matter of days. Our Lord Jesus did this. How much more us?

Have a great day.

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“Because of that obedience, God lifted Him high and honored Him far beyond anyone or anything, ever, so that all created beings in heaven and on earth—even those long ago dead and buried—will bow in worship before this Jesus Christ, and call out in praise that He is the Master of all, to the glorious honor of God the Father.” Philippians 2v9-11 (The Message)

April 29 – For what purpose?

“Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God:

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;

Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.”

Whatsoever – word, thought, deed … any action word – dance, eat, drink … should all be done as unto the Lord, in the fear of the Lord. For what purpose do we do the things that we do? We see here how even servants are cautioned to serve their masters, not with eyeservice, as menpleasers, but in singleness of heart, fearing God, for ultimately, the one who we serve is the Lord Christ.

“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.” Colossians 3v17

The New Living Translation says that in whatever we do or say, we should do it as a representative of the Lord Jesus. Remember we should seek to delight ourselves in the Lord, in our Master, in our Saviour for ultimately He it is who will grant us the desires of your heart, He it is that will reward you, for it is not he who approves himself that is approved, but he who the Lord approves. How can you win His approval today and every single moment of your life?

Have a blessed day.

April 28 – On the head

In the head, we have the mouth, the nose, the ears, the teeth… I remember once, a preacher preaching about the helmet of salvation that we have thus covering all these parts of the head – the ears, the eyes and sometimes even the mouth. We see in Psalm 140 v7, where the Psalmist writes:

“O GOD the Lord, the strength of my salvation, Thou hast covered my head in the day of battle.”

For us who know that we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against rulers of darkness and spiritual wickedness in high places, the covering of the head in battle is very important as it regulates the things we hear, the things we see, the things we smell, think, and in essence do… Thus we see as one of the armour parts that:


“Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God:” Ephesians 6v13&17

April 27 – From Psalm 18

“For Thou wilt save the afflicted people; but wilt bring down high looks.” Psalm 18v27

The concordance of the Dakes Bible, gives some 20 ways by which man can be afflicted. This include slavery, fasting, heavy responsibility, material loss, trials, defeat in war, bodily disease, sufferings of Christ, hunger, persecutions, sufferings for Christ, mental torment, oppression, barrenness, insults, captivity, hopeless situations, imprisonment, punishment for sin and any kind of trouble and suffering.

Many things come to afflict people, but the Lord our God is mighty to save. However, He will bring down high looks. The Amplified Bible calls these haughty looks.

One verse that still fascinates me, is that which says:
“The LORD taketh pleasure in them that fear Him, in those that hope in His mercy.” Psalm 147v11

But we know that God resists the proud. One of the dictionary meanings for haughty is “having or showing arrogant superiority to and disdain of those one views as unworthy.”
Those who look on others like that, God will bring down those looks, remembering that pride comes before a fall. Let’s be careful to be humble before the Lord our God, for He Himself will lift us up in His time.

Have a very wonderful day.
With much love.

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Verses for thought:
“Boast not thyself of to morrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.

Let another man praise thee, and not thine own mouth; a stranger, and not thine own lips.” Proverbs 27v1&2

April 26 – A prayer

Hello everyone,
I saw this prayer that Paul prayed for the church in Rome and thought it was quite powerful. He prayed that:

“Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost.” Romans 15v13

So you have a promise, but you are not joyful, and you are not at peace in believing it. Perhaps because circumstances say otherwise. Here, Paul prays that our God, even the God of hope, will fill you with all joy and peace in believing, in order that ye may abound in hope, not through your own abilities, but through the power of the Holy Ghost.

“I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15v13 (New Living Translation).

For we know that:
“Hope deferred maketh the heart sick: but when the desire cometh, it is a tree of life.” Proverbs 13v2

But when the God of hope fills you with peace and joy in believing, because we trust in Him, then we can boldly and confidently and joyfully and peacefully say and respond to whatever comes our way that:

“Why are you cast down, O my inner self? And why should you moan over me and be disquieted within me? Hope in God and wait expectantly for Him, for I shall yet praise Him, Who is the help of my countenance, and my God.” Psalm 42v11 (Amplified Bible)

Have a beautiful day.

For April 25 – The Rose of Sharon

Recently, I heard a question asked as to why God was called the Rose of Sharon. We see this in Songs of Solomon 2v1 where Solomon writes:

“I am the rose of Sharon, and the lily of the valleys.” (King James Version)

We see within verses 1-3 of Songs of Solomon 2, that comparisons are being made about how the lover, in this case Jesus, stands out among others or in a situation e.g. the lily of the valleys; apple tree among the trees of the wood.

As for the rose of Sharon, we see other translations:

“[SHE SAID] I am only a little rose or autumn crocus of the plain of Sharon, or a [humble] lily of the valleys [that grows in deep and difficult places].” Songs of Solomon 2v1 (Amplified Version)

“I am the spring crocus blooming on the Sharon Plain, the lily of the valley.” Songs of Solomon 2v1 (New Living Translation)

“I’m just a wildflower picked from the plains of Sharon, a lotus blossom from the valley pools.” Songs of Solomon 2v1 (The Message)

So who is the Rose of Sharon to us?
Looking through Google, a website gave this description of some of the characteristics of the Rose of Sharon:
“Rose of Sharon blooms profusely, and its attractive flowers are its main selling point. Like other types of hibiscus, rose of Sharon’s flowers bear a striking stamen. Another feature giving the shrub value is its relatively late period of blooming (in the Northeastern U.S., it blooms in August). Rose of Sharon is thus able to offer color when many shrubs have long ceased blooming. A heat-lover, rose of Sharon is also prized by growers in the Southeastern U.S. who crave plants that can stand up to summer's heat. The plant is reasonably drought-tolerant. Don't give up on rose of Sharon, thinking it's dead just because it hasn't leafed out by early summer. Rose of Sharon not only blooms late, but leafs out late, as well.”
(http://landscaping.about.com/od/shrubsbushes/p/rose_of_sharon.htm)

From this, one sees that:
i) It blooms profusely – there is more than enough of it to go round
ii) It is attractive – you are drawn to it
iii) Striking stamen – it is strong
iv) Relatively late blooming period, thus able to offer color when many shrubs have long ceased blooming- it stands out among its counterparts
v) A heat-lover – it can stand the conditions of the sun

And so for us, the Rose of Sharon is not just a wild flower, it is dependable. Even when “it” doesn’t seem to be showing up, it is never late. Jesus is never late. He is very dependable, He will show up, and He is more than able to withstand whatever heat that comes our way. His grace is sufficient for us, and His strength is made perfect in weakness. He provides things profusely – in abundance – for us, and He is indeed very very attractive.
Have a blessed day.

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Verses for praise:
“My heart is fixed, O God, my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise.

Awake up, my glory; awake, psaltery and harp; I myself will awake early.” Psalm 57v7&8

The 24th day of April, 2007 – How time flies!

Tick, tock, tick, tock – it’s already the 24th day of the 4th month in this new year. How time flies, each day bringing us closer to eternity. One day, we will look back and reminisce about different occurrences that have happened in our lives. There are many things that fly away and pass away, for instance riches, sorrow, and thus we see:

“Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom.

Wilt thou set thine eyes upon that which is not? for riches certainly make themselves wings; they fly away as an eagle toward the heaven.” Proverb 23v4&5

And also:
“Sing unto the LORD, O ye saints of His, and give thanks at the remembrance of His holiness.

For His anger endureth but a moment; in His favour is life: weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” Psalm 30v4&5

One lasting promise we do know of though is what Jesus said:

“LET not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in Me.

In My Father’s house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you.

And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto Myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.” John 14v1-3

April 23 – Thanking God for Jesus

Hello everyone,
How are you doing on this day? I hope well. Here in Boston, MA, the sun is shining and the temperature is actually 13 degrees Celsius. Praise the Lord. But we thank God that Jesus is the light of the world, and regardless of rain, or snow, fall or sleet, we still have the life of God on the inside of us and can shine, shine, shine. 2 Timothy 1v10 tell us some of the things that were brought to light through the coming of Jesus:

“But is now made manifest by the appearing of our Saviour Jesus Christ, who hath abolished death, and hath brought life and immortality to light through the gospel:” (King James Version).

The Amplified Bible says:
“[It is that purpose and grace] which He now has made known and has fully disclosed and made real [to us] through the appearing of our Savior Christ Jesus, Who annulled death and made it of no effect and brought life and immortality (immunity from eternal death) to light through the Gospel.”

Have a glorious day.

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Verses for praise:
“Oh that men would praise the LORD for His goodness, and for His wonderful works to the children of men!

Let them exalt Him also in the congregation of the people, and praise Him in the assembly of the elders.” Psalm 107v31&32

April 22 – His purpose and His grace

The next thing we see in Paul’s exhortation to Timothy, talks about God and His part in all these:

“… but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;

Who hath saved us, and called us with an holy calling, not according to our works, but according to His own purpose and grace, which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began,” 2 Timothy 1v8&9

“[For it is He] Who delivered and saved us and called us with a calling in itself holy and leading to holiness];[He did it] not because of anything of merit that we have done, but because of and to further His own purpose and grace (unmerited favor) which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began [eternal ages ago].” 2 Timothy 1v9 (Amplified Bible)


We see a couple of things here:
1) That He – God – hath saved us
2) And called us with an holy calling
3) He did not call us according to our own works
4) He called us according to His own purpose
5) And He called us according to His own grace
6) And that He has given us these things in Christ Jesus even before the world began

We see a lot of messages for us in just this verse. 1 is that God loves us, knows us by name, in that He had His purpose and grace available for the work He has set before us to do, even before the world began. He knew you. Remember that:

“There is no wisdom nor understanding nor counsel against the LORD.” Proverbs 21v30

Another thing that we see here, is that He did not deliver or save us according to our own works, the Bible even says that our righteousness are as filthy rags beside Him. Instead, He saved us, and called us with this holy calling—not expecting us to do it on our own, but according to His power, as verse 8 said—according to His own purpose and unmerited favour.

Hallelujah!!!

Have a blessed day.

April 21 – And so …

And so after Paul reminded Timothy of the spirit of power, and of love, and of a sound mind that he had, Paul writes that:

“Be not thou therefore ashamed of the testimony of our Lord, nor of me His prisoner: but be thou partaker of the afflictions of the gospel according to the power of God;” 2 Timothy 2v8 (King James Version)

“Do not blush or be ashamed then, to testify to and for our Lord, nor of me, a prisoner for His sake, but [with me] take your share of the suffering [to which the preaching] of the Gospel [may expose you, and do it] in the power of God.” 2 Timothy 2v8 (Amplified Bible)

“So never be ashamed to tell others about our Lord. And don’t be ashamed of me, either, even though I’m in prison for Him. With the strength God gives you, be ready to suffer with me for the sake of the Good News.” 2 Timothy 2v8 (New Living Translation).

And so easy to fall into the trap of being scared to talk about Jesus – I mean what will other’s think, what will they say, will they accept me, hmmm… what if I get into trouble. But Paul reminds us, as he did Timothy, that we do not have a spirit of fear, but one of love, of power, and of a sound mind.

I remember yesterday, at a train station, there was a man singing about “she’s a flirt,” and I longed to ask him if he would like to play and I would free style because the more he sings she’s a flirt, maybe the more she will be one, unless she knows her worth, who she is. Now I didn’t do that, but recalling the Spirit I had in me, I was able to tell him he sounded nice, and give him a flash card with bible verses.

Let us not be ashamed of the gospel of Christ. Not because of our own abilities, but because of the power of God that worketh through us and is waiting just to manifest once we step out in faith.

Have a blessed day.

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Verses for thought:
“So, as much as in me is, I am ready to preach the gospel to you that are at Rome also.

For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.

For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith.” Romans 1v15-17

April 20 – Power, love and a sound mind

Hello everyone,
How are you doing on this day? I hope well. I am good, in school, just appreciating what it means to relax in God. Now going off of 2 Timothy 1v6 where Paul reminded Timothy to stir up the gift that was in him, through the laying on of his hands, verse 7 says:

“For God hath not given us the spirit of fear: but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.” (King James Version).

Its interesting that Paul goes from talking to Timothy and reminding Timothy in particular about Timothy’s own gifting, to referring to the “us.” The church – that God has not given us the spirit of fear. So we need not to be afraid. Instead, God has given us a spirit of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. Remembering that we do have the mind of Christ. Now we all are different, having different giftings and we have to realize that in the expression of our own individual calling we have the spirit of power, and of love and of a sound mind. So we need not fear.

Say it out and shout it loud – I have a spirit of power, and of love and of a sound mind. I have the mind of Christ. I need not fear. I have the Spirit of adoption, whereby I can cry Abba Father, and I do cry Abba Father. I am no longer in bondage, not having received a spirit of fear, but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. (Just felt like putting that in – exciting innit).
Now the Amplified Bible says:

“For God did not give us a spirit of timidity (of cowardice, of craven and cringing and fawning fear), but [He has given us a spirit] of power and of love and of calm and well-balanced mind and discipline and self-control.” 2 Timothy 1v7

Hallelujah.
Have a great day.

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Verses for thought:
“Not that we [have the audacity to] venture to class or [even to] compare ourselves with some who exalt and furnish testimonials for themselves! However, when they measure themselves with themselves and compare themselves with one another, they are without understanding and behaving unwisely.

We, on the other hand, will not boast beyond our legitimate province and proper limit, but will keep within the limits [of our commission which] God has allotted us as our measuring line and which reaches and includes even you.” 2 Corinthians 10v12&13 (Amplified Bible)

April 19 – The unprofitable servant

Hello everyone,
How are you doing on this day? I hope well. I am good. I remember discussing with someone yesterday about how scary it is to be replaced in the kingdom of God. We thank God for His grace though and for Jesus’ example of “not My will but Yours be done.” On the other hand, we see Elijah who was replaced by Elisha; Saul by David. However, we also see that Daniel wasn’t replaced, neither was Joseph, or Esther (although she could have been had she not realized that perhaps “I was placed in this place for such a time as this.”) What is God calling you to do? Paul said to Timothy:

“Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands.” 2 Timothy 1v6

“That is why I would remind you to stir up (rekindle the embers of, fan the flame of, and keep burning) the [gracious] gift of God, [the inner fire] that is in you by means of the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination].” 2 Timothy 1v6 (Amplified Bible)

We see here how Paul was cautioning Timothy not to let the gift of God that was in Timothy lie dormant, go to sleep or be unprofitable, like that of the unprofitable servant who buried his talent under the soil. What gifts have you? You could ask God to show to you the ones that you do not even know about, and to create avenues for you to stir them up for use in the furtherance of His kingdom.

Have a blessed day.
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“To those who use well what they are given, even more will be given, and they will have an abundance. But from those who do nothing, even what little they have will be taken away.

Now throw this useless servant into outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth” Matthew 25v29&30 (New Living Translation)

April 18 – As if thou hast not received it

Hello everyone,
How are you doing on this day? I hope well. I am fine and just continually amazed at how God manifests His love for us. He is indeed very faithful, so hold tight to Him and enjoy His ride. So a couple of weeks ago, we had an exam in church, based on Sunday School memory verses. One of the ones that we had to learn was from 1 Corinthians 4v7, which says:

“For who maketh thee to differ from another? and what hast thou that thou didst not receive? now if thou didst receive it, why dost thou glory, as if thou hadst not received it?” (King James Version)

“For who separates you from the others [as a faction leader]? [Who makes you superior and sets you apart from another, giving you the preeminence?] What have you that was not given to you? If then you received it [from someone], why do you boast as if you had not received [but had gained it by your own efforts]?” (Amplified Bible)

“For what gives you the right to make such a judgment? What do you have that God hasn’t given you? And if everything you have is from God, why boast as though it was not a gift?” (New Living Translation).

It’s so easy to fall into the trap of thinking we have what we do have because of what we have done. Indeed, what you sow, you do reap, and if we see a man diligent in his affairs, he will stand before kings, and not mean men. But then we look at the basic things which allow for one to keep going like joy, peace, loved ones, friends, family, the breath of life, stamina, good health … and we realize that indeed, it is all God.

Think of such people as the Israelites, they prospered because God was with them. When God’s back was turned from them, the little people of Ai beat them. Think of Gideon, Joseph (who Potiphar saw that the Lord was with him, thus he prospered and was successful), think of Daniel (he would have died if God had not revealed to him the dream of the king) … and on and on and on.

The conclusion of the whole matter: Our lives are in His hands and that is a wonderful to be grateful for. Also recalling a song by Wale Adenuga (I believe) which says – all that I have comes from You, all that I am, You have made me to be, I know that You Lord loves to be praised …

Have a wonderful day.

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Verses for thought:
“For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.

For whether we live, we live unto the Lord; and whether we die, we die unto the Lord: whether we live therefore, or die, we are the Lord’s.” Romans 14v7&8

April 17 – For his good 2 edification

“Let every one of us please his neighbour for his good to edification.

For even Christ pleased not Himself: but, as it is written, The reproaches of them that reproached thee fell on Me.” Romans 15v2&3

Now the problem we often have (as I read in a book just now), is that we try to put our own likes on the other person – after all, if I like this song, the person should like it, or this food, the other person should e.t.c. But we forget that when we are pleasing our neighbour, we are looking out for their own good, and it is no longer about us – not at all. And that is love, as we see exemplified in Jesus. Father forgive them, for they know not what they are doing.

Have a fun day pleasing your neighbour for his good to edification.

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Verses for praise:
“I will sing unto the LORD as long as I live: I will sing praise to my God while I have my being.

My meditation of Him shall be sweet: I will be glad in the LORD.” Psalm 104 v 33-34

April 16 – His delight, His deliverance

“All they that see me laugh me to scorn: they shoot out the lip, they shake the head, saying,

He trusted on the LORD that He would deliver him: let Him deliver him, seeing He delighted in him.” Psalm 22v8

But we see the Psalmists testimony in Psalm 18v19:

“He brought me forth also into a large place; He delivered me, because He delighted in me.”

The question then arises that how do we win the Lord’s delight? For we see here that when the Lord delights in someone, He delivers them. We see a glimpse into this, where Jesus said,

“And He that sent Me is with Me: the Father hath not left Me alone; for I do always those things that please Him.” John 8v29

Is God’s pleasure always ultimate on your mind? Do you always seek to please Him? He is faithful. He will never fail us nor forsake us, so our conversations need never to be with covetousness and we need never fear what man can do unto us.

Verses for thought:
“Delight thyself also in the LORD; and He shall give thee the desires of thine heart.” Psalm 37v5

“Thou hast also given me the shield of Thy salvation: and Thy right hand hath holden me up, and Thy gentleness hath made me great.” Psalm 18v35

Praise the Lord. Hallelujah.

April 15 – … who was called barren

Sitting down and flipping through the Bible thinking of a word of encouragement is for today. What encouragement. Stumbled upon these which were underlined from the book of Luke:

“For with God nothing shall be impossible.

And Mary said, Behold the handmaid of the Lord; be it unto me according to Thy word. And the angel departed from her.” Luke 1v37&38

The first verse is oft quoted – for with God nothing shall be impossible. But then we see in the second verse, verse 38, how Mary’s dependence on God’s impossibility, was based on His word. God will not give us to do anything that is unachievable. For we know according to what Paul spoke to the Philippians:

“Not that I speak in respect of want: for I have learned, in whatsoever state I am, therewith to be content.

I know both how to be abased, and I know how to abound: every where and in all things I am instructed both to be full and to be hungry, both to abound and to suffer need.

I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me.” Philippians 4v11-13

Have a glorious day.

April 14 - God's grace

Hello everyone,

How are you doing on this day? I hope well. I am good and bonding. Now we see in Titus 2v11 - 13, an exhortation for :

"For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men, Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly in this present world;Looking for that blessed hope, and the glorious appearing of the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ;"

We need as Christians to live with the future in mind at all times. Its not about what is happening at this point in time, but about why it is happening so that we can get to where we want to go to with who we want to - the great God and our Saviour Jesus Christ. So how do we go about doing it? By the way we live. How should we live? We should deny ungodliness and wordly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously and godly in this present world, in order to get to that which we do not now see but by faith are going to. The amplified Bible says:

"It has trained us to reject and renounce all ungodliness (irreligion) and and worldly (passionate) desires, to live discreet (temperate, self-controlled), upright, devout (spiritually whole) lives in the present world," Titus 2v12

And all this is possible through the grace of God that bringeth salvation to us. Hallelujah.

Have a great day.

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Verses for thought:

"Grace be to you and peace from God the Father, and from our Lord Jesus Christ,Who gave Himself for our sins, that He might deliver us from this present evil world, according to the will of God and our Father:To whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen." Galatians 1v3-5

April 13 – I remember, I recall

I remember once when I was going over the Psalms with a friend of mine, just speaking it. And also recall sometimes just bonding with people, over scripture, encouraging one another, exhorting one another – its great.

In the book of Philemon, Paul says to Philemon, that he thanks God, making mention of Philemon in his prayers. He later on goes on to say a bit further that:

“That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.” Philemon 1v6

Literally taking this could be to say that the manner in which you share your faith, your belief, your hope, will become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus. For instance, God is in us, the Holy Spirit is in us, the Lord Jesus is in us. Could anything be better than this, or more wonderful than this knowledge? I don’t think so. Hallelujah!!!

Have a great day.

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Verses for praise:
“Examine yourselves, whether ye be in the faith; prove your own selves. Know ye not your own selves, how that Jesus Christ is in you, except ye be reprobates?” 2 Corinthians 13v5

“And thus are the secrets of his heart made manifest; and so falling down on his face he will worship God, and report that God is in you of a truth.” 1 Corinthians 14v25

“Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world.” 1 John 4v4

April 12 - Overcoming evil

Romans 12v21 "Be not overcome of evil, but overcome evil with good."

April 11 – Stand strong - together

Hello everyone,
How are you doing on this day? I hope well. I am doing great and right now thinking about it, I am astonished at how fast the semester, and I guess time in general is going. Everything comes to pass and the day of our Lord approaches steadily. Now in Romans 12, we see a caution from the Apostle Paul:

“For I say through the grace given unto me, to every man that is among you, not to think of himself more highly than he ought to think; but to think soberly, according as God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith.

For as we have many members in one body, and all members have not the same office:

So we, being many, are one body in Christ, and every one members one of another.” Romans 12 v 3-5

We usually sing this song by Ron Kenoly – Though we are many, we are one body; we are one body in Christ. How true it is. Here we see that we are members one of another. I remember too once when we went for a Christian retreat, how the pastor was saying to us ladies that when you see a “brother,” see him as a brother, and not as a “potential.” What are we saying? We are all members one of another. I recall too in class once, how we were discussing about how we often attribute the success of a project, or a company or an organization to the leadership, the charismatic leader. But then the point came, as is usually pointed out in church, that the leader or the head is nothing without the people supporting him.

What are we saying? No man is an island and we should therefore as Paul pointed out try to build one another up (for when one suffers, all suffer, the toe cannot function properly if the eye is darkened), to edify, to esteem others as better than ourselves, to exhort, not bicker or pull down or try to pull our own weights. And above all – love, love, love.

Have a blessed day.

April 10 – What you say? What, what, what

Hello everyone,
How are you doing on this day? I hope well. I am good, just had a very restful night. I think I slept through my alarm also- but that’s okay. Hungry? Well Proverbs 18v20 says:

“A man’s belly shall be satisfied with the fruit of his mouth; and with the increase of his lips shall he be filled.” Proverbs 18v20

Thus we also see the verse that cautions us that life and death are in the power of the tongue and they that love it will eat the fruit thereof. Consequently, since the words that we speak are so powerful, the Bible reminds us that for every idle word that we speak, we shall give account on the day of judgment. Now we are different. We are the King’s children. And we should conduct ourselves and our conversations as such – not in pride but with deep humility and confidence having a full knowledge of who our God is to us and what He is able to do for us and what He likes or dislikes to here – no complaining, no murmuring, no disputings – all love.

Have a very wonderful day.

Verses for thought:
“He that regardeth the day, regardeth it unto the Lord; and he that regardeth not the day, to the Lord he doth not regard it. He that eateth, eateth to the Lord, for he giveth God thanks; and he that eateth not, to the Lord eateth not, and giveth God thanks.

For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself.” Romans 14v6&7

April 9 – On Faith

Hello everyone,
How are you doing on this morning? Arise shine for your light is come and the glory of the Lord is risen upon you.

Sometimes we say, I wish I had more faith for this issue or that issue, or to do this particular thing. I remember listening to a message about it not being about our own faith or in other words, confidence in our own abilities, but having faith in God. But how can we have even this mustard seed faith that our Lord Jesus spoke of. We see in Romans 10v17:

“Consequently, faith comes from hearing the message, and the message is heard through the word of Christ.” (New International Version).

Here we see that although faith comes from hearing the message, its not just any message, it is the message through the word of Christ. What have you been hearing of late? Has it been in accordance with the word of Christ?

“So faith comes by hearing [what is told], and what is heard comes by the preaching [of the message from the lips] of Christ (the Messiah Himself).” (Amplified Bible).

Here, we realize that who is doing the talking also matters. Who have you been “hearing” from. Is it Jesus the Word of God, our Messiah. Remember that Paul cautioned

“As we said before, so say I now again, if any man preach any other gospel unto you than that ye have received, let him be accursed.
For do I now persuade men, or God? or do I seek to please men? for if I yet pleased men, I should not be the servant of Christ” Galatians 1v9 &10

Be cautious that you are not speaking anything out of line with the word of God for it is the Lord God whom you serve and are answerable to.

‘So faith comes from hearing, that is, hearing the Good News about Christ.” Romans 10v17

Have a blessed day.

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Verses for thought:
“But whoso hath this world’s good, and seeth his brother have need, and shutteth up his bowels of compassion from him, how dwelleth the love of God in him?

My little children, let us not love in word, neither in tongue; but in deed and in truth.” 1 John 3v17&18

April 7 – Re – joice / Continually

Hello everyone,
How are you doing on this day? I hope well. I am fine and was just wondering about the word rejoice. Often times when we see a word with “re” in front of it, it means to do something again. For instance re-pair, - re-vamp, re-turn, re-cline, re-late and so on. And so on with rejoice. The Bible says:

“Let all those that seek Thee rejoice and be glad in Thee: let such as love Thy salvation say continually, The LORD be magnified.” Psalm 40v16

Seeking God, then rejoice. Rejoice in the Lord at all times and again I say rejoice. You may not feel like it, but rejoice. The world may look at you like you are funny, rejoice. It may seem uncool, rejoice.

“REJOICE in the LORD, O ye righteous, for praise is comely for the upright.

Praise the LORD with harp: sing unto Him with the psaltery and an instrument of ten strings.

Sing unto Him a new song; play skillfully with a loud noise.” Psalm 33v1-3

So in the sense of “re” be joyful over and over and over again, revamp yourself in joy. And if ye love His salvation, then continually say, the LORD be magnified.
And guess what, praise is the “in thing” in the kingdom. It is COMELY.

Have a great day.

The God of Isaac

“Because he hath set his love upon Me, therefore will I deliver him: I will set him on high, because he hath known My name.” Psalm 91v14

The God of Isaac. One of the first experiences that Isaac had with the God of his father, was when he—Isaac—was to be His—God’s—sacrifice. He quickly learnt though, that God was Jehovah Jireh. Much later, He came to know God in the realm of Rehoboth—when God had made them have a well which they could draw water from, and there were no contentions surrounding it as the others they had made had—where room was made for them. Through sacrifice, through famine, through his father’s experiences and through Isaac’s own experiences, Isaac came to know who we now refer to as the God of Isaac.

The God of Isaac is the God who makes available in the midst of nothingness – no sacrifice, or famine. The God of Isaac is a covenant keeping God who because of Abraham’s steadfastness appeared to Isaac saying:

“And I will make thy seed to multiply as the stars of heaven, and will give unto thy seed all these countries; and in thy seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed;
Because that Abraham obeyed My voice, and kept My charge, My commandments, My statutes, and My law.” Genesis 26v4&5


Blessed be the name of our covenant keeping God in Jesus name, Amen.

April 6 – On sowing to ministry

Hello everybody,
How are you doing on this day? I hope well. Indeed this is the day that the Lord has made, and we can rejoice and be glad in it and bond too with our Father …

Now sowing to ministry could be in time, prayers, needs … and often times we read the verse:

“But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4v19

The side note of the Dakes Bible with regards to this verse, reads “A promise that is still true to those who are in Christ and who are faithful to God as the Philippians were.”

Paul also notes about the Philippians, before He writes that God will supply all their need, that:

“For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.
Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.” Philippians 4v16&17

Our God is a great accountant, now not of sins, which He is quick to remember no more, but He is not unfaithful to forget one’s labour of love, in that one ministers and does minister to His saints. Recall also that what you do to the least of men, you do also to Jesus. So look for people around you that you can bless. Not necessarily because they desire a gift, but so that it shall abound to your account. On the other hand, remember he that giveth to the poor, lendeth to God … which I still find absolutely amazing. You can even call God to remembrance on it. Or better still, giving without expecting and forgetting about it, for even though we forget, God never does as He said Himself that it is more blessed to give than to receive innit.

It shall be well with you. Have a very wonderful day.


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Verses for praise:
“Behold the eye of the LORD is upon them that fear Him, upon them that hope in His mercy;
To deliver their soul from death, and to keep them alive in famine.” Psalm 33v18&19

April 5 – The fear of the Lord

“What man is he that feareth the LORD?...” Psalm 25v12

One might ask, what does it mean to fear the Lord. I guess putting Him on the forefront of Your mind, Your entire being. Being mindful of what pleases Him, rather than what we or other people desire. Thus we see David say

“I will not give sleep to mine eyes, or slumber to mine eyelids,
Until I find a place for the LORD, an habitation for the mighty God of Jacob.” Psalm 132 v 4&5

We see Joseph say (when asked to sleep with Potiphar’s wife), how can I do this thing and wickedly depart from my God. It is seeking the approval of God, rather than the praise of man. It is loving God with all your heart, and all your soul and all your heart. It is having Him on the forefront of your heart. And we see in Psalm 25, that those who fear the LORD,

1) him shall He teach in the way that He shall choose (v12)
2) His soul shall dwell at ease (v13)
3) His seed shall inherit the earth (v13)
4) The secret of the LORD will be with them (v14)
5) He will shew them His covenant (v14)

Have a very blessed day.

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Verses for thought:
“Mine eyes are ever toward the LORD; for He shall pluck my feet out of the net.” Psalm 25v15

“That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.” Philemon 1v6

April 4 – The One who turns situations around

One verse oft quoted is:
“ARISE, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.” Isaiah 60v1

And is this not our testimony. Haven’t we like Ruth come to rest under the shadow of the Highest? So why be discouraged? Why be downcast? Talk to your Father, seek the counsel of His Holy Spirit here with you, look to Jesus, the author and finisher of your faith. Yesterday, I had received some disappointing news, but then, I received an email or rather read an email from a good friend reminding me that it is in the valleys that we usually have good soil that produce seed. What a timely message. The valley, not the mountain top!

And now we see the verse:

“Whereas thou hast been forsaken and hated, so that no man went through thee, I will make thee an eternal excellency, a joy of many generations.” Isaiah 60v15

And may this be our portion in Jesus mighty name, Amen.

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Verses for thought:
“So shall they fear the name of the LORD from the west, and His glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the LORD shall lift up a standard against him.” Isaiah 59v19

“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:
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.” 1 Peter 2v9&10

April 3 – GOD our DELIVERER … and so

“He delivereth me from mine enemies: yea, Thou liftest me up above those that rise against me: Thou hast delivered me from the violent man.” Psalm 18v48

It is not very befitting for us Christians to fight- though it may be tempting at times. So then, how do we overcome. One song sang by Hillsong Australia (I believe) has a line that says “this is how we overcome.” And how is that – through praise. Remember the mighty shout which brought down the wall of Jericho – no fight. Remember Paul and Silas and the prison walls and the earthquake and the loosing of chains – no fight. Remember Jesus feeding of the thousands – no fight, just giving of thanks. Isn’t that wonderful. And why?

Because those we fight against are not flesh and blood, they are principalities, they are powers, they are rulers of darkness and spiritual wickedness in heavenly places. And so, our armour becomes – the shield of faith, the breastplate of righteousness, the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God, the belt of truth, feet shod in preparation for the gospel of peace, and the greater One on the inside of us –JESUS.

Because if God so be our deliverer, and so…

“Therefore will I give thanks unto Thee, O LORD, among the heathen, and sing praises unto Thy name.” Psalm 18v49

Have a very lovely day.

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Verses for thought:
“So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy.” Romans 9v16

“As He saith also in Osee, I will call them My people, which were not My people; and her beloved, which was not beloved.” Romans 9v25

April 2 – One simple question

“… If God be for us, who can be against us?” Romans 8v31

Have a gloriously joyful day.

April 1 – And come again to you

So today, in some places, it is April fool’s day, where you can trick people and if they fall for it, then you say April fool. We see in the story of Abraham, one day, when God told him to give up his son, his only son as a sacrifice. (Error) Nope. And it was not even April 1. What would you do in a situation like that? You cannot hide the child, as the God of the whole earth is omnipresent, you cannot hide anything from Him. It cannot be April fool’s, for God is not a man that He should lie, nor the son of man that He should repent, has He said and will He not do it. This is one situation that really calls for it is well.

But what did Abraham do? Well he told his servants that he and the lad were going to worship and come again to you. And what about the lad?

“And Isaac spake unto Abraham his father, and said, My father: and he said, Here am I, my son. And he said, Behold the fire and the wood: but where is the lamb for a burnt offering?

And Abraham said, My son, God will provide Himself a lamb, for a burnt offering: so they went both of them together.” Genesis 22v7&8

And here we get a bit of an insight into Abraham’s faith and relationship with God. When God told him to go, he rose up early in the morning; he saddled his ass, he clave the wood, and took his son. However, he said God will provide the burnt offering.

- Recalling that God had earlier told him in Genesis 17v19:
“And God said, Sarah thy wife shall bear thee a son indeed; and thou shalt call his name Isaac: and I will establish My covenant with him for an everlasting covenant, and with his seed after him.”

Now it may not be easy to stand upon God’s promises, when He puts you to test as He was Abraham, but if you recall His word, and that He thinks good thoughts towards you, then you should be just fine. So in Abraham’s case, Isaac was already the promised child, or the child named Isaac was—so God would have had to give Abraham and Sarah another child called Isaac, with whom God will then establish the everlasting covenant or … The end of the story, Abraham became even more blessed as ‘selon God’ (according to God), he had feared God and had been obedient to the point of when it hurts…and he also came to know God as Jehovah Jireh.

Have a blessed Sunday.

March 31 – For all He’s done

“As ye have therefore received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk ye in Him:

Rooted and built up in Him, and stablished in the faith, as ye have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving.” Colossians 2v6&7

The question then is that what does it mean to walk ye in Christ Jesus the Lord. For instance, if a boss tells an apprentice to walk ye in my ways, he probably means follow my ways, follow my paths, do as I do, do not veer from my paths…

By rooted and built up in Him, we recall the verse which says:
“For other foundation can no man lay than that is laid, which is Jesus Christ.” 1 Corinthians 3v11

Our foundation is Jesus, the Word of God, which is sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing to the dividing asunder of bone and marrow, soul and spirit; the engrafted word that is able to change our souls. We have to hold fast to Jesus, regardless, no matter what circumstances say, and what He did and accomplished. Being confident in Him- That is how we overcome the world:

“For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith.
Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?” 1 John 5v4&5

That is whatever happens, we should be stablished in faith, as we have been taught, abounding therein with thanksgiving. Knowing that Jesus and only He is the Way, the Truth and the Life and no one cometh to the Father except through Him. Hallelujah.

Have a wonderful day.

March 30 - At the airport

Once at the airport, not too long ago, I had the opportunity to act in love, to act with grace, grace that I had learnt about in church just the day before. I had been standing in line, about to go through security (where I was going to be double checked, because I had the SSSS planted on my ticket) when somebody else jumped ahead of me-cutting in front of the line. What to do?

Again today, again at the airport, I had a visit from a little girl (you have to love them) whose legs could barely reach over the seat. Amazing how we grow until our feet can touch the ground. And we come to thinking of such verses as:

“For every one that useth milk is unskilful in the word of righteousness: for he is a babe.

But strong meat belongeth to them that are of full age, even those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil.” Hebrews 5v13&14


What to do? How does love react? How does our reaction today differ from yesterday and the next and the next...?

Have a glorious day.

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

Those things, which ye have both learned, and received, and heard, and seen in me, do: and the God of peace shall be with you.” Philippians 4v8&9

March 29 – Memories

“But watch out! Be careful never to forget what you yourself have seen. Do not let these memories escape from your mind as long as you live! And be sure to pass them on to your children and grandchildren.” Deuteronomy 4v9 (New Living Translation).

“SO ISRAEL made his journey with all that he had and came to Beersheba [a place hallowed by sacred memories] and offered sacrifices to the God of his father Isaac.” Genesis 46v1 (Amplified Bible)

Memories, memories, memories. Right now I am back in my undergraduate university and I cannot count how many times I have told people that I actually missed it so much that I tried not to think about it – I kept it at the corner of my mind. And yet, it is God that gives us these experiences. And instead of forgetting all about them—perhaps because it hurts too much to think about it—we can call Him to remembrance reminding Him that He who gave you those experiences, those triumphs, those people. Is more than able to give you even greater experiences, triumphs and bring you to meet great people all over again. Hallelujah – it also helps us to hold onto His promises.

Have a great day.

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“For it is impossible for those who were once enlightened, and have tasted of the heavenly gift, and were made partakers of the Holy Ghost,

And have tasted the good word of God, and the powers of the world to come,

If they shall fall away, to renew them again unto repentance; seeing they crucify to themselves the Son of God afresh, and put Him to an open shame.” Hebrews 6v4-6

March 28 - What great insight!!!

So today, at Bible study, back in my old school, we were looking at the book of Genesis. And even though I was sleeping through most of it, I was able to respond to the question "so what have you learnt about God?, That is from Genesis 1&2 that we had looked at so far. And I could boldly say that:
1) He was observant, liking to make good things
2) He liked to bless - recalling a question on what blessing did God bless Adam and Eve with, that someone had asked earlier.

Indeed, that is so true. I mean, the Psalmist says that:"How precious are Thy thoughts unto me, O God! how great is the sum of them!

If I should count them, they are more in number than the sand: when I awake, I am still with Thee." Psalm 139v17&18

Have you ever seen a man or a woman in love, they are constantly thinking of one another - how they can buy gifts for each other, how they can please one another, what the other is up to.

In the same way, for someone to think of you so much that it is more in number than the sand is really something. And we have the insight from the book of Jeremiah too that these thoughts that God is thinking towards us are those of peace and not of evil. And so dear ones, relax in Him, because the One who never slumbers nor sleeps has got your back, and He loves to give good gifts unto His own.

March 27 – Being patient in tribulation

Hello everyone,
How are you doing on this day? I hope well. I am fine. So sometimes, we wonder what we should be doing at certain times, perhaps when we are going through certain situations. Romans 12v12 gives a bit of insight saying:

“Rejoicing in hope; patient in tribulation; continuing instant in prayer,”

So what should we be doing?
1) Rejoicing in hope
2) Be patient in tribulation
3) Continue instant in prayer

Have a glorious day.

Verses for thought:
“And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness.” Colossians 3v14

“And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by Him.” Colossians 3v17

March 26: On Knowing God

Hello everyone,
How are you doing on this day? I hope well. So today is visitation day for me, and I am excited (yay!). In the Bible, we see one day when God came to earth and visited Abraham, and afterwards, His face was set towards Sodom, for the cry of Sodom and Gomorrah was great. And then, we see Abraham ask this question of the Almighty:

“That be far from Thee to do after this manner, to slay the righteous with the wicked: and that the righteous should be as the wicked, that be far from Thee: Shall not the Judge of all the earth do right?” Genesis 18v25

Here, Abraham was playing the role of an intercessor, basing it on his knowledge that indeed, the Judge of all the earth was merciful. How well do we know God, or let Him know us. Earlier, God also spoke of Abraham that:

“For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment; that the LORD may bring upon Abraham that which He hath spoken of him.” Genesis 18v19

Have a glorious … and blessed day.

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Verses for thought … and praise:
“Thus saith the LORD, Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in his riches:

But let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth and knoweth Me, that I am the LORD which exercise lovingkindness, judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight, saith the LORD.” Jeremiah 9v23&24

March 25 - On not being movable

"They that trust in the LORD shall be as mount Zion, which cannot be removed, but abideth forever. As the mountains are round about Jerusalem, so the LORD is round about His people from henceforth even for ever." Psalm 125 v 1 & 2

The word talks about those4 that trust in the Lord being unmovable, unshakeable. Like those who put their minds on Him being in perfect peace. Besides if God is round about us, there is nowhere we can move to out of the boundaries He has secured us in. it does not mean things will not happen, but it means we have the confidence that our tomorrows and todays, will be fine.

Have a blessed day.