Monthly Archives: February 2017

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL: WEDNESDAY MARCH 1ST 2017-SOWING IN TEARS

Memorise: They that sow in tears shall reap in Joy. Psalm 126:5
Read: Psalm 126:5-6
5 They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.
6 He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him.
Bible in one year: Genesis 27, Isaiah 47:14-48:11

AS REVEALED BY PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE IN TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL

1. More often than not, we associate sowing with giving of money. For this reason, some people who do not have money believe they do not have anything to sow. This is far from the truth!
2. If you do not have money, you can sow your time or talents into the work of the kingdom. Be it through praying, using your natural talents or your acquired skills/training, there is no one who has nothing to sow. Even if all you can do is smile, you can apply this is making new comers to church feel welcome. If you are a dramatic person, use it for the propagation of the gospel.
3. Everyone has something to sow; all you need to do is to identify what you have. Romans 12:6-8 says, “Having then gifts differing according to the grace that is given to us, whether prophecy, let us prophesy according to the proportion of faith; Or ministry, let us wait on our ministering: or he that teacheth, on teaching; Or he that exhorteth, or exhortation: he that giveth, let him do it with simplicity; he that ruleth, with diligence; he that sheweth mercy, with cheerfulness.”
4. When you sow a seed in tears, you will reap its yield in joy.
5. Moreover, what you reap will be determined by what you have sown.
6. You can sow towards the salvation of a loved one, telling God that he or she must not go to hell. To this end, you can sow prayers, fasting and witnessing to the fellow. The day such a soul eventually becomes saved; you will definitely reap the joy of heaven (Luke 15:7).
7. I cannot forget the wife of one of my friends; I was his best man at their wedding. My friend’s wife would say to me, “Please give your life to Christ and be born again.” But I would tell her “I am already a Christian, and my Christian name is Enoch.” She would reply, “That is not what I am taking about”, and then she would begin to cry. I would look at her and wonder what was wrong with her, saying “I am not the worst fellow around; at least you can ask your husband. He knows I am a good person. “However, she kept on praying and crying, sowing in tears for my salvation. Today, she is now laughing.
8. When last did you sow towards the salvation of a loved one – family or friend?
9. Some of us attempt to preach to such a fellow once or twice, but after being rebuffed, we say “I have done my best; if you like, refuse to repent. Your blood can no longer be required from my hands.” Yes, you have made attempts, but you have not yet done your best.
10. You have to keep at it, and in Jesus’ Name, you will reap in joy.

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

What a great revelation today’s devotional is! Some of us believers knows what it is to sow in money, time, service and talent. Infact, some are engaged in seed sowing in various ways but not aware of the salvation seed. Others who are aware backs off too quick than required. It is not enough that we sow a seed. We are required to water and weed the field continously until we have a bountiful harvest. It is true that when we talk to someone about Christ we have sown a seed and the Holyspirit keeps at bringing that message back to the unsaved. But we as the sower have to keep watering on our knees. Also the size of the seed does not matter as much as the sincerity in the heart of the one sowing. Luke 21:1-4 “And He looked up and saw the rich putting their gifts into the treasury, and He saw also a certain poor widow putting in two mites. So He said, “Truly I say to you that this poor widow has put in more than all; for all these out of their abundance have put in offerings for God,[a] but she out of her poverty put in all the livelihood that she had.” As we sow in various ways the Lord will uphold us that we may water until we reap in Joy in Jesus name. May God continually increase Pastor E.A Adeboye on every side. He’s indeed a blessing to us.

Action Point
The salvation of some people requires great sacrifice. Ask God for the grace to pay the required price of the salvation of all your loved ones.
HYMN
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 power as thou shalt choose,
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,
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.

Please follow and like us:
20
Posted by admina

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL: TUESDAY FEBRUARY 28TH 2017- IMPEDIMENTS TO PRAYER

Memorise: If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me: Psalm 66:18
Read: Isaiah 59:1-4
1 Behold, the Lord’s hand is not shortened, that it cannot save; neither his ear heavy, that it cannot hear:
2 But your iniquities have separated between you and your God, and your sins have hid his face from you, that he will not hear.
3 For your hands are defiled with blood, and your fingers with iniquity; your lips have spoken lies, your tongue hath muttered perverseness.
4 None calleth for justice, nor any pleadeth for truth: they trust in vanity, and speak lies; they conceive mischief, and bring forth iniquity.
Bible in one year: Genesis 25-26, Isaiah 47:1-13

AS REVEALED BY PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE IN TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL

1. The fact that God answers prayers is without doubt. Anytime you call on Him, as long as it is in the Name of Jesus, you can be sure the answer will come. Jesus in John 14:14 said, “If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.”
2. To God, answering prayers is a question of keeping His word. He said if you call upon Him when you are in trouble, He will deliver you, and He is bound by His word (Psalm 50:15, Hebrews 6:18).
3. There was once a contest between the prophet of God, Elijah, and 450 prophets of an idol called Baal (1st Kings 18:19-24). Each side was to call on their God or god; the goal was to see which side would receive a response by fire. The prophets of Baal called on their god from morning till afternoon, but there was no answer. The moment the man of God called on the Lord, fire fell from heaven.
4. God is still in the business of answering prayers, but are you still in the business of obeying Him?
5. Be assured that God is still in the business of stilling raging storms.
6. If you remove iniquity from your heart, you will call on Him and He will answer and deliver you.
7. As much as God desires to answer your prayers, if you still enjoy a life of sin, your prayers cannot be answered.
8. We must make conscious efforts to remove all impediments to our prayers.
9. Such impediments include what the Bible describes as “the sin which doth so easily beset us” (Hebrews 12:1).
10. The pleasures of the flesh run against God’s expectations (Galatians 5:17). Such pleasures will not allow us to receive answers to our prayers.
11. We must be weary of gossip because there is great danger in every idle word we speak (Matthew 12:36).
12. Jesting should also be avoided (Ephesians 5:4). Jesting refers to unholy jokes. God is not against laughter and humour as some people wrongly believe. He is pleasantly humorous, but we must keep ourselves from unhealthy jokes that hinder holy living or make fun of the Holy Spirit.
13. The Lord is not just looking for those who are calling on Him for miracles and signs; He is searching for those who will lift up holy hands and a pure heart before Him (Psalm 24:3-5). He is looking for those who are ready and committed to walking in His footsteps.
14. God is holy, and He has called us to holy living. We are to do as He commands because we are light of the world.
15. God in Heaven is glorified when our light shines in the midst of the darkness of this world.
16. If you don’t want any impediment of your prayers from now on, you must amend your ways.
17. If you have been stealing, repent and steal no more. If you have been involved in questionable transactions and dealings, you have to repent and forsake such ways.
18. If your life is right with God, your prayers will not be hindered.

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

Sin, gossip, unholy jokes, unholiness, making fun of the Holy spirit, impure heart, lack of readiness and commitment to following God among other factors can impede and hinder prayers. Some of these mentioned above are ignored and many Christians carelessly find themselves doing it. Some even argue ignorantly about it being a sin. Thank God for the availability of His word and for the light and understanding the entrance of His word brings. He often calls us to order through the Holy Spirit and we are forgiven of our iniquities when we confess to Him and yield to the leading of His spirit. Thank God for Pastor E.A Adeboye. He’s a great blessing to our generation. May he be strengthened day by day in Jesus name.

Action Point
Confess every pleasure of the flesh you have yield to, asking for grace to live above them.
HYMN
Deeper, deeper in the love of Jesus
Daily let me go;
Higher, higher in the school of wisdom,
More of grace to know.
Refrain:
Oh, deeper yet, I pray,
And higher every day,
And wiser, blessed Lord,
In Thy precious, holy Word.
Deeper, deeper, blessed Holy Spirit,
Take me deeper still,
Till my life is wholly lost in Jesus,
And His perfect will.
Deeper, deeper! though it cost hard trials,
Deeper let me go!
Rooted in the holy love of Jesus,
Let me fruitful grow.
Deeper, higher, every day in Jesus,
Till all conflict past,
Finds me conqu’ror, and in His own image
Perfected at last.
Deeper, deeper in the faith of Jesus,
Holy faith and true;
In His pow’r and soul exulting wisdom
Let me peace pursue.

Please follow and like us:
20
Posted by admina

75HOURS MMP INVESTMENT THAT PAYS MORE THAN MMM

Marathon Messiah’s Praise (MMP) is a section of powerful and continuous praise dedicated to celebrate the birthday of Pastor E.A Adeboye every year. The Goodnews is that its happening again today 27th of February and continues until the 2nd of March, 2017, 12pm prompt at the Youth Centre, Redemption Camp, Nigeria featuring over 50 worship leaders, over 15,000 worshipers, in 7 countries, 5 continents, rendering praise without limit to the almighty God. All to appreciate God in the life of our father in the Lord, PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE. HAPPY 75TH BIRTHDAY SIR.
Why not invest your time to be connected with this wonderful programme wherever you are and be blessed. Don’t forget there are numerous benefit in giving God unrestricted praises. Psalms 67 3- 6 says “Let the peoples praise You, O God;Let all the peoples praise You. 4 Oh, let the nations be glad and sing for joy!For You shall judge the people righteously,And govern the nations on earth. Selah5 Let the peoples praise You, O God;Let all the peoples praise You.6 Then the earth shall yield her increase; God, our own God, shall bless us.
I pray that as you invest your time to be connected with this programme the earth shall yield increase to favour you and your household. To link/connect this programme live visit http://mmpraise.org or www.rccg.org.

Please follow and like us:
20
Posted by admina

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL: – MONDAY FEBRUARY 27TH 2017- SINCERITY

Memorise: In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity. Titus 2:7
Read: 2nd Corinthians 2:14-17 (King James Version)
14 Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place.
15 For we are unto God a sweet savour of Christ, in them that are saved, and in them that perish:
16 To the one we are the savour of death unto death; and to the other the savour of life unto life. And who is sufficient for these things?
17 For we are not as many, which corrupt the word of God: but as of sincerity, but as of God, in the sight of God speak we in Christ.
Bible in one year: Genesis 24, Isaiah 46

AS REVEALED BY PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE IN TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL

1. Insincerity is one of the greatest reasons behind the downfall of many believers today. Some people claim to love God, but the kind of fruit they manifest makes people question the genuineness of their salvation.
2. Loving God is not just by words, it must reflect in all that we do and in our approach to life. The moment we are saved, we should no longer walk as those who are heading for eternal damnation. The word of God must be obeyed in its entirety.
3. There are believers today who cherry-pick the aspects of the Bible they want to obey. This should not be so! After we are saved, it is expected of us to immediately renounce all the hidden things of dishonesty (2nd Corinthians 4:2).
4. We cannot afford to be careless in our Christian walk, because we have an adversary (1st Peter 5:8). To be able to stand against the wiles of the devil, we must be sincere with ourselves. One of the things that gave David victory over Goliath was his sincerity. Although King Saul offered David his armour, David was sincere enough to admit that he had never tired that approach (1st Samuel 17:38-39). His sincerity made him stick to his familiar strategy of using smooth stones and a catapult, rather than wasting his time on an untested line of attack that would not produce results.
5. Today, there are many ministers of the gospel who have abandoned the true gospel for a social message. They believe that people are not interested in hearing the truth. This is false! Some believe that if they preach the true gospel to people, they will find it very hard and most will turn away, hence, they water down their messages. Such ministers need to learn from Jesus (John 6:60-67). If Samson had been sincere with himself, he would not have died the kind of death he died (Judges 16:21-30).
6. The devil had tested Samson several times and had found out that he had no wisdom. Samson knew he had a weakness for women, but he refused to admit it. He felt things would always remain as they were (Judges 16:20). If he was sincere, he would have built a wall of defence between himself and his weaknesses. He kept a relationship he knew God did not approve of. He kept visiting places he should not visit, just like some Christians today who visit bars; even though they know ungodly things happen there.
7. Are you finding it difficult to stop stealing, yet you still join others in counting offering money? Are you finding it difficult to keep your eyes off your female secretary, despite speaking in tongues, and yet you have not eased her out? Are you competing with the grace of God in other people’s lives, despite the fact that God has told you your own area of strength? If any of these describes you, then you are not being sincere with yourself!

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

Sincerity is one of the virtues God desires to see His children exhibit. Sincerity is one of Paul’s instructions for Christian household in Colossians 3:22. “Slaves, obey your earthly masters in everything; and do it, not only when their eye is on you and to curry their favor, but with sincerity of heart and reverence for the Lord.” Gehazi was insincere with his master Elisha and did not reverence God when he ran after Naaman. 2 Kings 5:20 Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said to himself, “My master was too easy on Naaman, this Aramean, by not accepting from him what he brought. As surely as the LORD lives, I will run after him and get something from him.” He went ahead to lie when his master seeked to know where he has been and his insincerity earned him and his generation leprosy. Naaman’s leprosy will cling to you and to your descendants forever.” Then Gehazi went from Elisha’s presence and his skin was leprous–it had become as white as snow. (2 Kings 5:27) Likewise, Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-11 died as a result of their insincerity. Christians’ insincerity is in different phases and height and it take deliberate effort with the help of God through the Holy spirit to conquer this devil’s wile. I enjoin us to follow strictly what Paul admonished us to do in 1 Thessalonians 5:21: “But test everything; hold fast what is good.” the Lord will help us in Jesus name. God bless Pastor E.A Adeboye for this great insight into the word of God. His strength is renewed in Jesus’ name.

Prayer Point
Father, grant me the grace to sincerely deal with every weakness
in my life.
HYMN
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
the emblem of suffering and shame;
and I love that old cross where the dearest and best
for a world of lost sinners was slain.
Refrain:
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 some day for a crown.
O 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. Refrain
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. Refrain
To the old rugged cross I will ever be true;
its shame and reproach gladly bear;
then he’ll call me some day to my home far away,
where his glory forever I’ll share. Refrain

Please follow and like us:
20
Posted by admina

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL: SUNDAY FEBRUARY 26TH 2017-HYPOCRITICAL?

Memorise: But Jesus perceived their wickedness, and said, why tempt ye me, ye hypocrites? Matthew 22:18
Read: Luke 11:37-44 (King James Version)
37 And as he spake, a certain Pharisee besought him to dine with him: and he went in, and sat down to meat.
38 And when the Pharisee saw it, he marvelled that he had not first washed before dinner.
39 And the Lord said unto him, Now do ye Pharisees make clean the outside of the cup and the platter; but your inward part is full of ravening and wickedness.
40 Ye fools, did not he that made that which is without make that which is within also?
41 But rather give alms of such things as ye have; and, behold, all things are clean unto you.
42 But woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye tithe mint and rue and all manner of herbs, and pass over judgment and the love of God: these ought ye to have done, and not to leave the other undone.
43 Woe unto you, Pharisees! for ye love the uppermost seats in the synagogues, and greetings in the markets.
44 Woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! for ye are as graves which appear not, and the men that walk over them are not aware of them.
Bible in one year: Genesis 21:23, Isaiah 45:14-25.

AS REVEALED BY PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE IN TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL

1. One of the characteristics which the Holy Spirit warns us will be rife in the last days is hypocrisy (1st Timothy 4:2). No wonder the Lord Jesus Christ made it very clear that many who expect to be granted access through the pearly gates will be turned back on the last day (Luke 13:24-27).
2. Do you know that many bishops, pastors, general overseers, apostles, etc who are professing Christ today will not make it on the day of judgement? May that not be your lot in Jesus’ Name. To prevent this from happening to you, you need to periodically examine yourself to see if you are still in the faith, as received from the Lord.
3. Ask yourself if your name is still written in the Book of Life. Does the Spirit of God still bear witness with your spirit that you are a bona fide child of God? Is your conscience free from guilt and dead works? Can the devil and his agents testify that truly, you are no longer in their camp? Don’t pretend to be a child of God when you know you are on your way to perdition.
3. The greatest challenges Jesus had with the Pharisees was the issue of their mindset. They appeared to have good intentions, but it was all a lie.
4. Hypocritical? Jesus knew the state of their hearts. The human heart is like a computer. Whatever you feed it with will determine what comes out of it. The heart of a man is what shapes his destiny. The reason why some people come to church and are still not blessed is the state of their heart. Their hypocritical hearts are hardened, and so they cannot receive anything from God.
5. If the Pharisees had allowed the message of Jesus Christ to penetrate their hearts, their perception would have been different. If you allow God to work on your heart, your breakthrough will be immeasurable.
6. Our heart is a reflection of who we are. Every time Jesus performed a miracle, instead of being happy that someone in need had received help from God, the Scribes and Pharisees would rather question by what authority He did it (John 9:13-27, Luke 20:1-2). That is what a hypocritical heart looks like.
7. I wish we all knew that God is watching not just our actions but also our motives.He hears and watches everything we do behind closed doors. There is nothing hidden from Him that will not be exposed on the last day.

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

The prayer point for today’s devotion is very powerful and deep. Self-deception preceeds Self destruction. When some settles for deceiving self then such person has got to a delicate state. Our Lord Jesus Christ during His work on earth never ceased to address hypocrisy especially among the Pharisees. If we carefully take a look at some Christians in our world of today are hypocrites! And this very act surrounds itself with several dangerous fruits that can only lead to deterioration, destruction and even death. Man can never deceive God even if he/she deceives fellow human being. Galatians 6:7 tells us “Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.” Let us examine ourselves deeply and uproot every hypocrisy or seed of deception that can lead to self destruction. Let’s guard our heart with all diligence against every satanic influence that can bring us to a place of disobedience of God’s instructions and disadvantage in God. We are delivered from all forms of deception in Jesus name. God bless Pastor E.A Adeboye for this great insight into the word of God. His strength is renewed in Jesus’ name.

Prayer point
Father, deliver me from all forms of self-deception.
HYMN
On a hill far away stood an old rugged cross,
the emblem of suffering and shame;
and I love that old cross where the dearest and best
for a world of lost sinners was slain.
Refrain:
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 some day for a crown.
O 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. Refrain
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. Refrain
To the old rugged cross I will ever be true;
its shame and reproach gladly bear;
then he’ll call me some day to my home far away,
where his glory forever I’ll share. Refrain

Please follow and like us:
20
Posted by admina

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL: SATURDAY FEBRUARY 25TH 2017 -UNGRATEFUL?

Memorise: It is a good thing to give thanks unto the LORD, and to sing praises unto thy name, O most High: Psalm 92:1
Read: 1st Samuel 25:4-17
4 And David heard in the wilderness that Nabal did shear his sheep.
5 And David sent out ten young men, and David said unto the young men, Get you up to Carmel, and go to Nabal, and greet him in my name:
6 And thus shall ye say to him that liveth in prosperity, Peace be both to thee, and peace be to thine house, and peace be unto all that thou hast.
7 And now I have heard that thou hast shearers: now thy shepherds which were with us, we hurt them not, neither was there ought missing unto them, all the while they were in Carmel.
8 Ask thy young men, and they will shew thee. Wherefore let the young men find favour in thine eyes: for we come in a good day: give, I pray thee, whatsoever cometh to thine hand unto thy servants, and to thy son David.
9 And when David’s young men came, they spake to Nabal according to all those words in the name of David, and ceased.
10 And Nabal answered David’s servants, and said, Who is David? and who is the son of Jesse? there be many servants now a days that break away every man from his master.
11 Shall I then take my bread, and my water, and my flesh that I have killed for my shearers, and give it unto men, whom I know not whence they be?
12 So David’s young men turned their way, and went again, and came and told him all those sayings.
13 And David said unto his men, Gird ye on every man his sword. And they girded on every man his sword; and David also girded on his sword: and there went up after David about four hundred men; and two hundred abode by the stuff.
14 But one of the young men told Abigail, Nabal’s wife, saying, Behold, David sent messengers out of the wilderness to salute our master; and he railed on them.
15 But the men were very good unto us, and we were not hurt, neither missed we any thing, as long as we were conversant with them, when we were in the fields:
16 They were a wall unto us both by night and day, all the while we were with them keeping the sheep.
17 Now therefore know and consider what thou wilt do; for evil is determined against our master, and against all his household: for he is such a son of Belial, that a man cannot speak to him.
Bible in one year: Genesis 19-20, Isaiah 44:21-45:13

AS REVEALED BY PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE IN TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL

1. God plays a prominent role in every successful endeavour (Lamentations 3:37). No human effort would suffice if God is not involved (Psalm 127:1). This is why you need to be grateful to God for every achievement you experience.
2. Some people disdain God each time they are asked to give offerings to Him. They wonder why they have to give 10% of their profit or income to God. They see this as irrational. Yes, irrational minds cannot see the faithfulness of God.
3. We should be grateful to God, and our gratitude should be expressed through our actions to Him and to our fellow men. Every time we bless others with our possessions out of a sincere heart, we are saying to God that we are grateful He made us a channel of blessing.
4. You can move God to do more for you through the heart of gratitude. Those who show gratitude to God achieve significant things in life. Solomon showed his gratitude to God through his offerings (1st Kings 3:3-15). He remembered and reflected on all the intrigues and battles that led to his emergence as king, and he was moved to give thanks. Also, King David was so grateful to God that he expressed it in his dance, to the point where he was disdained (2nd Samuel 6:16). He forgot he was a king, because he was demonstrating his gratitude to the King of kings.
5. For those with a heart of gratitude to God, when things are working, they praise God, and when things are not going in the direction they envisaged, they still praise God, knowing well that the faithfulness of God will never allow them to suffer loss.
6. Are you surrounded by enemies you can’t number? Don’t be troubled. Trust in Lord, and you will see His salvation. Are you going through situations that you can’t see yourself overcoming? Put your trust in God, and you will have total victory. Just take the step of faith and begin to bless the Name of the Lord. Even if a sack letter from your job was handed over to you yesterday, just begin to bless the Lord because something awesome is about to happen to you, and the world will hear your testimony.

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

Every child of God must possess a heart of gratitude. It is an act we must imbibe in us and even everyone around us. It must be so visible and true that others around us can literally see and be prompted to emulate. Let’s explore our feelings about someone expressing gratitude to us for something we did or they received from us. We are somehow displeased about continuous act of ingratitude of a benefactor even as human. And the one that is grateful always have priority over the ungrateful. In the same vein our God is moved by our gratitude to do more for us. A grateful heart paves way for a graceful life. Let’s take on the praise declaration of David in Psalm 34:1 that says: “I will bless the Lord at all times: his praise shall continually be in my mouth.” Our gratitude goes to God for the gift of a father and teacher in person of Pastor E.A Adeboye and for great insight into God’s word that birthed Open Heavens devotional. May His name be praised forever.

Action Point
With a heart of gratitude to God, count your blessings and name them one by one.
HYMN
When upon life’s billows you are tempest-tossed,
When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost,
Count your many blessings, name them one by one,
And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.
Refrain:
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
Count your blessings, see what God has done!
Count your blessings, name them one by one,
*Count your many blessings, see what God has done.
[*And it will surprise you what the Lord has done.]
Are you ever burdened with a load of care?
Does the cross seem heavy you are called to bear?
Count your many blessings, every doubt will fly,
And you will keep singing as the days go by.
When you look at others with their lands and gold,
Think that Christ has promised you His wealth untold;
Count your many blessings—*money cannot buy [*wealth can never buy]
Your reward in heaven, nor your home on high.
So, amid the conflict whether great or small,
Do not be discouraged, God is over all;
Count your many blessings, angels will attend,
Help and comfort give you to your journey’s end.

Please follow and like us:
20
Posted by admina

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL: FRIDAY 24TH FEBRUARY, 2017-CHILDREN OF GOD

Memorise: But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name. John 1:12.
Read: 1 John 3:1-3
Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.
2 Beloved, now are we the sons of God, and it doth not yet appear what we shall be: but we know that, when he shall appear, we shall be like him; for we shall see him as he is.
3 And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure.
Bible in one year: Genesis 16-18, Isaiah 44:9-20

AS REVEALED BY PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE IN TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL

1. You cannot discover your true identity if you are not in Christ. You need to recognise your true self through the light of the Scripture. If you know your true identity, it will help you not to compromise the call of God on your life.
2. The secret of blessings lies in your being able to walk in the divine purpose for your life. As a believer, you are the light in the midst of darkness, called to shine forth. You are the bridge to the destinies of men. If you don’t discover your destiny, the destinies of many others will be buried.
2. I once asked the Almighty God why He allowed me to “waste” twenty-seven years studying mathematics, when He knew that I would eventually become a pastor. The Lord told me that it was simply for the purpose of being able to preach mathematically. It then dawned on me that indeed all things work together for good for the children of God (Romans 8:28).
3. You are not a child of God just to attend church; you need to find out what God has empowered for you, and do exploits in that area. The reason why you are a child of God is not just to feel cool but to be driven by God’s purpose and mission. When you recognise that you belong to God, it will be practically impossible for anyone to get you derailed (Acts 27:23-24).
4. The power you have received as a child of God is not for nothing. It is expected that you will use this power in raising the dead, in opening the eyes of those still walking and living in ignorance, and in setting captives free from the bondage of Satan.
5. As children of God, let us wake up from our slumber and do the needful urgently. Every child of God is meant to be a fighter – a fearless fighter. You must not be weak in doing exploits for the Lord. You must not give in to fear despite the obstacles before you. All you need is the confidence that as a child of God, you have the backing of your Father.
6. A lot of people pass through life without being noticed because they have failed to understand the plan and programme of God for their lives. I pray for you that, in the Name of Jesus, you will find your place in God. By His grace, you will begin to experience prosperity, excellence and extraordinary breakthroughs, and before the end of your life, you will make a lasting change in the world.

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

Some people came to the world and left without any impact. Some names are still mentioned today by generations after the because of their works while on earth. Some disciples of Jesus, deacons, kings, prophets and individual’s are known than the other because of the account of their works written in the Bible. They made greater impact than the others whose names we hardly remember. Likewise in our environment, home country and the world as a whole, some great sons of God have come to this world and gone yet the impact of their great works lives on. “Behold, what manner of love the Father hath bestowed upon us, that we should be called the sons of God: therefore the world knoweth us not, because it knew him not.”1 John 3:1 We should live for Him whom has called us His. We should emulate Jesus in all we do as sons of God. We should be sold out for Him like apostle Paul and be a blessing to those around us. We should indeed make manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. The Lord will help us to live up to His standard for us in Jesus name. And we shall fulfil His purpose for our lives in Jesus name. We are grateful to God for blessing us with Pastor E.A Adeboye. Our knowledge of the word of God is increased each day as we study the Open Heavens devotional. More grace for greater works in Jesus’ Name.

Prayer Point
Father, as you did for the disciples of old, grant me boldness to speak your word
HYMN
O Jesus, I have promised
To serve Thee to the end;
Be Thou forever near me,
My Master and my Friend;
I shall not fear the battle
If Thou art by my side,
Nor wander from the pathway
If Thou wilt be my Guide.
Oh, let me hear Thee speaking,
In accents clear and still,
Above the storms of passion,
The murmurs of self-will;
Oh, speak to reassure me,
To hasten, or control;
Oh, speak, and make me listen,
Thou Guardian of my soul.
O Jesus, Thou hast promised
To all who follow Thee
That where Thou art in glory
There shall Thy servant be;
And Jesus, I have promised
To serve Thee to the end;
Oh, give me grace to follow,
My Master and my Friend.
Oh, let me see Thy footprints,
And in them plant mine own;
My hope to follow duly
Is in Thy strength alone.
Oh, guide me, call me, draw me,
Uphold me to the end;
And then to rest receive me,
My Savior and my Friend.

Please follow and like us:
20
Posted by admina

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL: THURSDAY 23RD FEBRUARY, 2017-MY REDEEMER LIVES

Memorise: Yet a little while, and the world seeth me no more; but ye see me: because I live, ye shall live also. John 14:19
Read: Mark 16:1-6
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.
Bible in one year: Genesis 12-15, Isaiah 43:16-44:8

AS REVEALED BY PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE IN TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL

1. Every time I ponder on the glory awaiting all those who make it to Heaven, I feel so excited. It is so magnificent that the ordinary human heart cannot fathom it.
2. If you will partake of his glory, you must not be discouraged in your walk of faith with God.
3. You must have the assurance in your heart that the Lord Christ, who is your Redeemer, is alive, and because He is alive, your faith is not in vain (1st Corinthians 15:14 & 20).
4. There are some who are at the point of giving up their faith. They are no longer excited about their confession of faith in Jesus Christ. Some are fainting in their spirit, and their level of commitment has waned. If you are in such situation, the Holy Spirit in Hebrew 10:38-39 says this to you: “Now the just shall live by faith: but if any man draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul.”
5. The purpose of discouragement is to make you backslide. It is aimed at stopping the good things you started.
6. Some of the activities of the Pharisees were aimed at discouraging the followers of Jesus, but their plots failed. Although they had Him crucified, some of His followers still followed Him to the very end. How amazing it was for them when they realised that Jesus had risen from the dead! The place where they laid His body was empty, and it remains so till today!
7. I prophecy into your life that the very spot where the enemy hoped you will remain shall become empty!
8. I declare to you that there is power in the resurrection of Jesus. Every arrow of discouragement shot at you to make you faint shall instead birth a spirit of boldness in you in Jesus’ Name.
9. Without faith, it is impossible to please God. You need to have faith in Jesus, the Redeemer of mankind. He lives forever more and no situation is beyond Him.
10. Every delay you have experienced is just to make your testimony more glorious.
11. You need to persist in the place of prayer. As long as you are still awaiting your testimony, don’t stop confessing the promises of God.
12. Take practical steps to actualise God’s plan and purpose for your life. The women kept going to the tomb because there was an assurance in their spirit efforts would not be wasted.
13. May be you have tried all you can, and yet there remains a Goliath in your life. Because your Redeemer lives, that problem will not overcome you. Because your Redeemer lives, that sickness will come to an end.
14. Problems respond to either the call of faith or doubt. Make sure all your challenges hear the call of faith from you saying: “because He lives, I can face tomorrow; my tomorrow shall be alright whether the devil likes it or not.” It shall be so in Jesus’ Name.

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

I decree and declare with boldness that my redeemer lives! And regardless of what comes my way, I am victorious in Christ Jesus. The type of boldness displayed by the three Hebrew boys in the book of Daniel is a show that they were convinced about their God. They were sure that they can’t be left with no help. We know that whatever comes out of the mouth of our Lord Jesus Christ is true. He told us in John 16:33 that “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” Why not take God by His word and keep your faith up and firm. Once He says it and you believe that settles it all. We thank God for Pastor E.A Adeboye for blessing us and inspiring us in today’s devotional. God bless him in strength and greater ability in Jesus’ name.

Action Point
Make this confession of faith: Lord Jesus, because you live, I shall also live and not die
HYMN
1 Through the love of God our Saviour,
all will be well.
Free and changeless is his favour,
all, all is well.
Precious is the blood that healed us,
perfect is the grace that sealed us,
strong the hand stretched forth to shield us,
all must be well.
2 Though we pass through tribulation,
all will be well.
Ours is such a full salvation,
all, all is well.
Happy, still in God confiding,
fruitful, if in Christ abiding,
holy, through the Spirit’s guiding,
all must be well.
3 We expect a bright tomorrow,
all will be well.
Faith can sing through days of sorrow,
‘All, all is well.’
On our Father’s love relying,
Jesus every need supplying,
in our living, in our dying,
all must be well.

Please follow and like us:
20
Posted by admina

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL: WEDNESDAY 22ND FEBRUARY, 2017- VICTORY THROUGH PRAISE

Memorise: For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds; 2 Corinthian 10:4
Read: 2 Chronicles 20:21-26
21 And when he had consulted with the people, he appointed singers unto the LORD, and that should praise the beauty of holiness, as they went out before the army, and to say, Praise the LORD; for his mercy endureth for ever.
22 And when they began to sing and to praise, the LORD set ambushments against the children of Ammon, Moab, and mount Seir, which were come against Judah; and they were smitten.
23 For the children of Ammon and Moab stood up against the inhabitants of mount Seir, utterly to slay and destroy them: and when they had made an end of the inhabitants of Seir, every one helped to destroy another.
24 And when Judah came toward the watch tower in the wilderness, they looked unto the multitude, and, behold, they were dead bodies fallen to the earth, and none escaped.
25 And when Jehoshaphat and his people came to take away the spoil of them, they found among them in abundance both riches with the dead bodies, and precious jewels, which they stripped off for themselves, more than they could carry away: and they were three days in gathering of the spoil, it was so much.
26 And on the fourth day they assembled themselves in the valley of Berachah; for there they blessed the LORD: therefore the name of the same place was called, The valley of Berachah, unto this day.
Bible in one year: Genesis 9-11, Isaiah 43:1-15

AS REVEALED BY PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE IN TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL

1. The easiest way to access victory in the kingdom of God is through praise.
2. Each time we praise the Name of the Lord, great and marvellous things are bound to happen.
3. If you are a believer and you do not yet know the essence of praise, you are missing a lot of blessings, opportunities and privileges. Our God is all-powerful, all-knowing and is the Almighty.
4. The moment we are committed to the realm of praise, things begin to happen at His command.
5. There are people who have been knocking on certain doors of opportunities before now, but to no avail. Why don’t you try praise? You will be surprised at how fast those doors will open.
6. The fact that you are praising the One that is higher than the highest should give you the assurance that your case is settled.
7. Praise to God is an indication of absolute trust in Him. Those who put their confidence in God will always praise Him until they receive their victory, and even after receiving their victory, they still praise Him.
8. It is the desire of the Almighty God that all His children should move from one level of victory to the other.
9. When the people of God praise Him, infirmities, yokes, bondage, barrenness and all the works of the devil are destroyed.
10. In the realm of praise, every limitation gives way.
11. In the battle of life, some are victors while some are victims. I decree into your life that you will continue to enjoy the victory of the Lord in Jesus’ Name.
12. Victors know how to move God into action. God is looking for people who can move Him through their praise. Such people will enjoy His mercy instead of receiving His judgement.
13. Praise is the most powerful instrument we can use to move God. The whole of creation was designed to praise God (Psalm 150:5, Psalm 148). The greatest assignment of angels in Heaven is praising God (Revelations 4:8-9, Psalm 148:2). When we get to heaven, our assignment will be to keep praising God (Revelations 7:14-15, Psalm 145:2).
14. Praise has greater impact whenever we come together to offer it to God, because His throne is set wherever His people are praising Him (Psalm 22:3).
15. When you bow before God in praise, you are showing that He alone is the Most High. Jehoshaphat enjoyed the victory of the Lord without fighting a battle! This is what praise can do. While the enemies were gathering their mercenaries and weapons of war against Judah, the people of God gathered momentum for praise. They believed in the victory of the Lord by faith, and all their enemies were smitten before them.
16. From today, as you praise the Lord, He will stand in your place and take over every battle of your life, and your victory shall be total in Jesus’ Name.

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

David was not just a king but an all time praiser of the almighty God. This gave him an edge over situation and his enemies despite the fact that he was a sinner. The Lord seek for worshippers who will worship Him spirit and truth. John 4:23 “But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.” When we give Him quality praise, He blesses us in turn. The truth about praising God is that He is worthy of our praise. And praising God should be like a default action daily. Whatever God demands from us is not to increase Him but to increase us. Let’s make a true worship and praise our lifestyle and daily dish out quality praise to Him who alone deserve the praise. We pray that the Lord will strengthen our Father in the Lord Pastor E.A Adeboye for greater works in Jesus name.

Prayer Point
Father, let your praise never cease from my lips.
HYMN
1 Through the love of God our Saviour,
all will be well.
Free and changeless is his favour,
all, all is well.
Precious is the blood that healed us,
perfect is the grace that sealed us,
strong the hand stretched forth to shield us,
all must be well.
2 Though we pass through tribulation,
all will be well.
Ours is such a full salvation,
all, all is well.
Happy, still in God confiding,
fruitful, if in Christ abiding,
holy, through the Spirit’s guiding,
all must be well.
3 We expect a bright tomorrow,
all will be well.
Faith can sing through days of sorrow,
‘All, all is well.’
On our Father’s love relying,
Jesus every need supplying,
in our living, in our dying,
all must be well.

Please follow and like us:
20
Posted by admina

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL: TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 21TH, 2017- BENEFITS OF THANKSGIVING

Memorise: Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name. Psalms 103:1
Read: Psalms 50:14-15
14 Offer unto God thanksgiving; and pay thy vows unto the most High:
15 And call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee, and thou shalt glorify me.
Bible in one year: Genesis 6-8, Isaiah 42:10-45

AS REVEALED BY PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE IN TODAY’S DEVOTIONAL

1. Without any iota of doubt, the Lord has been so good to us. He has never ceased to be faithful and kind. If it had not been for the Lord on our side, the devil would have destroyed us.
2. We are who we are in Christ because of the goodness of God. For these reasons and many more, we need to make thanksgiving our lifestyle.
3 Thanksgiving is an indispensable activity for every child of God.
4. For our lives to experience the blessings of the Lord on a continuous basis, we need to thank Him.
5. I sometimes marvel when I see people complain about their situation. Before complaining about your situation, take a critical look at another man’s situation and you will realise that you have enjoyed the goodness of the Lord.
6. A lifestyle of thanksgiving can make a lot of difference in our lives within a short time. Through thanksgiving, lost glory can be restored, as was the case with King Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 4:34-37).
7. When you adore and reverence the Almighty God, when you acknowledge Him as the source of your wealth and greatness, and see all you have achieved as being made possible by His hand, then God will be committed to preserving all He has given you.
8. Thanksgiving is the door that ushers you into God’s blessings. For His greatness, goodness and wonderful works to the children of men, we must thank Him.
9. The only reason why many of us are not on the street begging is because He is our Great Provider.
10. We walk with our shoulders high because He is our Defence and Deliverer. He remains our Rock and source of strength in every situation.
11. Wherever we gather together as a congregation, I tell my children to praise and thank God wholeheartedly.
12. Thanksgiving is not something you do in a hurry because God also takes His time as He blesses us with unprecedented miracles. There are blessings reserved for those who thank the Lord. He will always launch them to the realm of unimaginable favour.
13. Our thanksgiving will only be acceptable to God if it comes from a heart of worship.
14. For you to worship God in truth, you must live a holy life.
15. Believers will always win the battles of life, as long as there is no impediment to their worship of God.
16. We must be able to lift up clean hands and a pure heart to our Maker at all times (Psalm 24:3-4, Philippians 4:6). We must be honest and upright in character and reflect the nature of God in our dealings. Keep your heart pure so that your joy can be full.
17. With a pure heart, you can make your request known to God and there will be instant response from the throne of grace.

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

There are some deep statements I want us to ponder upon in today’s devotional. It is important that we meditate and reflect on them personally. The first one is that “Believers will always win the battles of life, as long as there is no impediment to their worship of God.” Secondly, “We must be able to lift up clean hands and a pure heart to our Maker at all times” Thirdly “We must be honest and upright in character and reflect the nature of God in our dealings.” Fourthly, “Keep your heart pure so that your joy can be full.” And lastly, “With a pure heart, you can make your request known to God and there will be instant response from the throne of grace.” After pondering on these and we make thanksgiving our lifestyle we can be sure of free access to continuous blessing from the Lord. As we praise Him, joy, blessings and testimonies shall know no bound in Jesus name. God has blessed us with a vessel unto honour through which we are supplied the word of truth. God bless Pastor E.A Adeboye for this great devotional.

Key Point
Those who come before God with thanksgiving can never live by the mercy of men.
HYMN
There shall be showers of blessing:
This is the promise of love;
There shall be seasons refreshing,
Sent from the Savior above.
Refrain:
Showers of blessing,
Showers of blessing we need:
Mercy-drops round us are falling,
But for the showers we plead.
There shall be showers of blessing,
Precious reviving again;
Over the hills and the valleys,
Sound of abundance of rain.
There shall be showers of blessing;
Send them upon us, O Lord;
Grant to us now a refreshing,
Come, and now honor Thy Word.
There shall be showers of blessing:
Oh, that today they might fall,
Now as to God we’re confessing,
Now as on Jesus we call!

Please follow and like us:
20
Posted by admina