Memorise: He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him. Psalm 126:6
Read: Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy 23 – 24, Ephesians 6

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

Our loving Father commanded His prophets and apostles of old to record the words of the Bible so that through these sacred writings, we may live profitable lives to Him, ourselves and to all of humanity in general. The wisdom of God manifested in these writings can make us wise, if we apply our hearts to His teachings. this wisdom speaks to us in Ecclesiastes 3:1 saying,
“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:” When a man knows that the appropriate time to act and not to act, he is considered wise. It is profitable for the children of God to be observant of times and seasons so that they are not found to be labouring against the divine timetable. Our memory verse speaks of the time of sowing, which is often not as pleasant as the time of reaping, even though there is an assurance for the sower that in the time of harvest there shall be rejoicing. In other words, the Bible teaches us to endure in the time of sowing so that there could be a time of harvest. Consequently, if there is no sowing, there will be no reaping. It takes the grace and wisdom of God for us to know the correct time of sowing and the correct time of reaping. It is calamitous for man to be sleeping when he should be reaping, because his harvest would have been wasted before he wakes up from his slumber. On the other hand, if by the time you ought to be sowing you are sleeping, at the time of harvest you would have nothing to reap.
Timing is so important that there is even a time to speak and a time to be silent. There is a thought provoking message that sounds paradoxical but is perfect in wisdom found in Proverbs 26:4-5: “Answer not a fool according to his folly, lest thou also be like unto him. Answer a fool according to his folly, lest he be wise in his own conceit.”
In other words, although not speaking out during an argument is wise and virtuous, it becomes a vice when there is a need to speak out and you keep your mouth shut. At such times, silence insinuates consent or denial of the truth. Our Lord Jesus Christ kept mute in the face of malicious and unfounded allegations against Him until He was asked if He as the King of the Jews and if He was the Christ 9matthew 27:11, Luke 22:67-70). To these questions, He answered in the affirmative. He could not have denied who He was because that would have contradicted or negated the Scripture. As a born again Christian, do you deny or refuse to affirm who you are in front of friends and colleagues? Ask God for forgiveness and begin to take a stand for your faith.

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

It very important for every believer to have understanding of time otherwise, frustration, distress and worries would not be far from whoever is involved. It will be reasonable to carefully meditate on the bible in To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:
A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up;
A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance;
A time to cast away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;
A time to rend, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak;

Prayer Point:
father, please give me wisdom that will make me accurately discern the right time and season for all things.
Hymn 15
NEARER MY GOD TO THEE
1. Nearer, my God, to Thee;
Nearer to Thee;
E’en though it be a cross
That raiseth me,
Still all my song shall be
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer to Thee.
2. Though, like a wanderer,
The sun gone down,
Darkness comes over me,
My rest a stone;
Yet in my dreams I’d be
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer to Thee.
3. There let me see the sight,
An open heaven;
All that Thou sendest me,
In mercy given;
Angels to beckon me
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer to Thee.
4.Then, with my waking thoughts
Bright with thy praise,
Out of my stony griefs
Bethel I’ll raise,
So by my woes to be
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer to Thee.

Please follow and like us:

20

Memorise: Thou shalt not delay to offer the first of thy ripe fruits, and of thy liquors: Exodus 22:29a
 
Read: Matthew 26:6-13
6 Now when Jesus came back to Bethany and was in the house of Simon the leper,
7 A woman came up to Him with an alabaster flask of very precious perfume, and she poured it on His head as He reclined at table.
8 And when the disciples saw it, they were indignant, saying, For what purpose is all this waste?
9 For this perfume might have been sold for a large sum and the money given to the poor.
10 But Jesus, fully aware of this, said to them, Why do you bother the woman? She has done a noble (praiseworthy and beautiful) thing to Me.
11 For you always have the poor among you, but you will not always have Me.
12 In pouring this perfume on My body she has done something to prepare Me for My burial.
13 Truly I tell you, wherever this good news (the Gospel) is preached in the whole world, what this woman has done will be told also, in memory of her.
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy 18-20, Ephesians 4

1. What is a timely offering? It is a worthy gift that is offered to God at the right time.
2. People who offer timely offerings are usually inspired or motivated to do so by unseen divine powers. Such people usually tell stories of a strong inner influence encouraging them to do a worthy deed, particularly in the house of God, in support of His work.
3. Today’s Bible reading gives us a perfect example of a timely offering.
4. A few days to the very weekend that Jesus was arrested and crucified, a woman was motivated by the holy Spirit to anoint Him with a very precious ointment. In the presence of the disciples and a few guests, she poured an alabaster box of very precious ointment on His head. The disciples responded with anger because they could not understand the reason for her action, but Jesus explained it to them in Matthew 26:12: “For in that she hath poured this ointment on my body, she did it for my burial.”
5. Just as Jesus said, this woman’s precious ointment was the only perfume that He had on His body throughout His three-day sojourn in the grave. After His death, by the time some women arrived in the morning of the third day to anoint His body, it was too late because had already risen from the grave (Luke 23:55-24:3). The woman who did this good work received her due reward, stated in Matthew 26:13. You will receive your due reward for obedience in Jesus’ Name.
6. God is not only interested in your obedience; He is also interested in your timely obedience, according to today’s memory verse.
7. God wants you to render to Him on time the first portion of your produce which has been set aside for Him. He wants you to honor Him with on tenth of your income and bring all your offerings without delay.
8. Delayed offerings are not acceptable to God.
9. In our service to God, He demands our punctuality. Be faithful in attending the teaching and preaching sessions in your church. Arrive on time, appropriately dressed and ready to make meaningful contributions toward the effectiveness of all that is going on.
10. Be faithful in giving your time, talents and in rendering other services to God. There is something about rising early to praise and worship God as exemplified by the life of David (Psalm 57:8-9, Psalm 63:1).
11. Whatever you have decided to do for God, do it on time. He is interested in the timing of your actions. Proverbs 8:17 says, “I love them that love me; and those that seek me early shall find me.”
12. Abraham, David, Solomon, and other God lovers in the Bible always rendered anything they had to offer to God promptly and without delay, because only a timely offering is acceptable to God.

In today’s devotional, our father in the Lord said “God is not only interested in your obedience; He is also interested in your timely obedience, according to today’s memory verse.” This statement can be confirmed by reading Genesis 22:1-19. It is important for our offering to be timely. This is because the impact is not for just a moment but till eternity. May we be prompt and timely in giving our offering in Jesus name. We are daily refreshed as we study the Open Heavens devotional. God bless and continually strengthen Pastor E.A Adeboye in Jesus name.

Prayer Point
Father, grant me grant grace to yield to the prompting of the Holy Spirit to give timely offerings that will release a reward from heaven in Jesus’ Name.
Hymn
Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise
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.
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.
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.
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
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

Memorise: As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. Galatians 6:10
Read: Mark 16:1-7
1 And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had bought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.
2 And very early in the morning the first day of the week, they came unto the sepulchre at the rising of the sun.
3 And they said among themselves, Who shall roll us away the stone from the door of the sepulchre?
4 And when they looked, they saw that the stone was rolled away: for it was very great.
5 And entering into the sepulchre, they saw a young man sitting on the right side, clothed in a long white garment; and they were affrighted.
6 And he saith unto them, Be not affrighted: Ye seek Jesus of Nazareth, which was crucified: he is risen; he is not here: behold the place where they laid him.
7 But go your way, tell his disciples and Peter that he goeth before you into Galilee: there shall ye see him, as he said unto you.
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy 21:22, Ephesians 5

1. A belated offering is a worthy present that is offered a little too late. A perfect example of this is found in Mark 16:1: “And when the sabbath was past, Mary Magdalene, and Mary the mother of James, and Salome, had brought sweet spices, that they might come and anoint him.”
2. These women had real love for Jesus. They followed Him everywhere He went as part of His disciples, and they catered to His needs. They were there at His crucifixion and even stayed behind to see where He was buried (Luke 23:55-56). After observing His burial place, they combined resources to invest in preparing sweet spices for the purpose of anointing His body in the grave. Sadly enough, it turned out to be a belated offering: a wasted effort that didn’t serve the intended purpose and a colossal disappointment. 
3. Indeed, it was the news of the resurrected Lord that served as their consolation. As children of God, we must avoid coming late to the presence of God or delaying our praise, worship and service to God beyond the appointed time; neither should we offer our vows, first fruits, tithes or special offerings belatedly.
4. Many years ago, at the inception of the Redeemed Camp building project, I told one of my sons of the need to urgently carry out an assignment that God would want Him to handle. He responded that He would go and pray about it over the weekend and then feed me back. As soon as he walked out of my office, God brought someone else who accepted the responsibly and immediately went to work, finishing the assignment in record time. My son came in early the following week to announce his readiness to do the work. He was dazed when I told him that the project had been completed by someone else, and he saw the evidence of this. He learnt his lesson that day and was never allowed such opportunities slip through his hands since then.  I pray that you and your offerings will be acceptable to God in Jesus’ Name.
6. The terrible thing about a belated offering is that it is always an opportunity lost that may never be regained. Esau carelessly lost the opportunity of a lifetime, and although he later sought it carefully with tears, it was impossible to reverse the situation. Hebrews 12:17 says, “For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.” Please don’t let this be your story. God bless you.  

Being swift in responding to God’s will is a virtue every believer must possess. Promptness in our giving is one thing that attracts God to us as believers. “Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He [b]takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, “prompt to do it”) giver [whose heart is in his giving].”
2 Corinthians 9:7 (AMPC) May God bless and continually increase Pastor E.A Adeboye on every side in Jesus name.

Prayer Point
Father, restore to me every missed opportunity of giving that will provoke the release of a breakthrough blessing from You in Jesus’ Name
HYMN
Take my life, and let it be
Consecrated, Lord, to Thee;
Take my moments and my days,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise,
Let them flow in ceaseless praise.
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.
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.
Take my sliver 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.
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.
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

Memorise: But ye, brethren, are not in darkness, that the day should overtake you as a thief.I Thessalonians 5:4
Read: 2 Peter 3:10-14
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy 16-17, Ephesians 3

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

Although the events that will herald the second coming of Christ are disturbing and could even be frightening, our Lord did not forewarn of these events in order to frighten or terrify us. His purpose was to prepare and empower us with the right attitude and mindset.

2.Based on yesterday’s study, since it is obvious that we are now in the end times, we will be considering the instructions that the Lord gave to us on how we ought to live in these last days. The Lord instructed us to watch out so that we are not deceived by anyone (Matthew 24:4).
3.This warning should be taken seriously as it is increasingly becoming difficult to focus on the message of the gospel. Some false prophets, hiding under the cloak of possessing special revelations, are peddling new doctrines that have no foundation in the Bible. Many issues that are clearly stated in the Bible, such as those relating to salvation, sexual orientation, abortion, divorce and remarriage, termination of life on request, tithing and the giving of first fruits are now being presented in ways that are contrary to the word of God. Do not be deceived, but rather hold on to the true word of God in all situations.
4.As we read about the signs and observe their fulfillment, we should not be alarmed, because they must happen. Having foreknowledge of their occurrence should remove the element of surprise that may affect those who are uninformed. We are to use our knowledge to our advantage by standing firm to the very end. Our knowledge should also motivate us to continue preaching the gospel throughout the world, warning all men about the reality of the second coming of the Lord and the impending danger of ignoring this warning. We must be well prepared for the persecution that may come in the form of government laws and regulations, or as conditions to be met in order to have access to certain benefits. Our duty is to watch continually for our Lord’s second coming.
5.He repeatedly stressed that His coming, though certain, would happen when people least expect it to. As His bride, we are to continually sitr ourselves up to be ready for His coming at any time. Frequent reflections on Christ’s beauty, love, mercy, glory and honour, in addition to a lifestyle of praise and worship will help to cultivate a readiness to meet Jesus in the air.
6.Aggressive evangelism in our families and communities will also help to increase our readiness for Christ’s coming. We must actively strive against worldliness because a worldly mindset is contrary to a watchful spirit. Finally, we must pray for the coming of the Lrod according to Revelation 22:17:
“And the Spirit and the bride say, Come. And let him that heareth say, Come. And let him that is athirst come. And whosoever will, let him take the water of life freely.”

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

There are two key words every believer should regard with all seriousness. “Watch and Pray” these two words simply explain what we should do to ensure us not to be catch unaware when Christ comes. To be watchful is to alert and be ready for an expectation. Are you expectant of His second coming? Watch and Pray so as not to be catch unaware. May we all continue to be alert and prayerful until His coming. May God continue to increase Pastor E.A ADEBOYE.

Action Point:
Assess your readiness for the coming persecution of believers, and for the return of the Lord.
HYMN
THE OLD RUGGED CROSS
1. 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.
Chorus:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it someday for a crown.
2. 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.
3. In that old rugged cross, I stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ‘twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me.
4. To that 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.

Please follow and like us:

20

Memorise: For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many. Matthew 24:5
 
Read: Matthew 24:1-13
1  And Jesus went out, and departed from the temple: and his disciples came to him for to shew him the buildings of the temple.
2 And Jesus said unto them, See ye not all these things? verily I say unto you, There shall not be left here one stone upon another, that shall not be thrown down.
3 And as he sat upon the mount of Olives, the disciples came unto him privately, saying, Tell us, when shall these things be? and what shall be the sign of thy coming, and of the end of the world?
4 And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.
5 For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
6 And ye shall hear of wars and rumours of wars: see that ye be not troubled: for all these things must come to pass, but the end is not yet.
7 For nation shall rise against nation, and kingdom against kingdom: and there shall be famines, and pestilences, and earthquakes, in divers places.
8 All these are the beginning of sorrows.
9 Then shall they deliver you up to be afflicted, and shall kill you: and ye shall be hated of all nations for my name’s sake.
10 And then shall many be offended, and shall betray one another, and shall hate one another.
11 And many false prophets shall rise, and shall deceive many.
12 And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold.
13 But he that shall endure unto the end, the same shall be saved.
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy 13 – 15,, Ephesians 2
 

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

1. While Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives, His disciples came to Him privately to ask what has now become a recurring question: “What shall be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the world?”
2. Even scientists today are interested in knowing if and how the world will end. In response to their questions, the Lord took it upon Himself to outline to anyone who will care to listen, the signs and significant historical events that would herald His second coming and that will eventually lead us to the end of the world. A diligent study of Matthew 24:4-38 reveals about thirty signs of the end times, and the most prominent of these are the appearance of deceivers and impostors, wars and rumours of wars, famine, earthquakes and natural diseases, the hatred of Christians around the world leading to persecution and martyrdom, zoom Ghnmmany renouncing their faith in Christ, the love of many waxing cold, the rise of many false prophets performing signs and wonders, the sun and moon getting darkened, and people living a carefree life just as it was in the days of Noah.
3. In the last few decades, we have witnessed the appearance of deceivers and impostors of the Lord Jesus Christ in different parts of the world. Some famous ones have succeeded in leading people astray, even to the point of committing mass suicide. Civil unrest, even to the point of terrorism and full-scale wars have been constant news items for years now.
4. The occurrence of earthquakes, hurricane, tornadoes and other natural disasters have been on the increase in the last few years. It is sad to hear of and witness the unbelievable level of persecution and martyrdom of Christians currently going on in several parts of the world.
5. There has been leaked video footage of Christians being lined up and murdered in parts of Africa and the Middle East. Several government, including those of the western world, are now making laws that are contrary to their faith. Some Christians have been caved in under pressure to renounce their faith.
6. False prophets in various forms are showing up everywhere on the surface of the earth. They all claim to be representing the Lord Jesus. Some of them display the gift of revelation and prophecy, even performing convincing miracles. They usually give themselves off as false prophets because their works and lifestyle are not consistent with the image of the Lord Jesus Christ.
7. Despite the abundant evidence that the time of the Lord’s coming is near, most people in the world are still living a carefree lives, just as it was in the days of Noah. Unsurprisingly, everything is playing out according to the warning and prophecies of our Lord. Therefore be alert!
8. The trumpet could sound any moment from now. Are you prepared to meet your Creator?

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

Today’s devotional is a reminder of the perilous times, let’s also consider II Timothy‬ ‭3:1-7 “But know this, that in the last days perilous times will come: For men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boasters, proud, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, unthankful, unholy, unloving, unforgiving, slanderers, without self-control, brutal, despisers of good, traitors, headstrong, haughty, lovers of pleasure rather than lovers of God, having a form of godliness but denying its power. And from such people turn away! For of this sort are those who creep into households and make captives of gullible women loaded down with sins, led away by various lusts, always learning and never able to come to the knowledge of the truth.” May God continually uphold and strengthen Pastor E.A Adeboye in Jesus name  

Prayer Point:
Father, making heaven at last is my goal. Please help me actualize this in Jesus’ Name.
Hymn
1. 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.
Chorus:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it someday for a crown.
2. 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.
3. In that old rugged cross, I stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ‘twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me.
4. To that 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.

Please follow and like us:

20

Memorise: Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh. Matthew 25:13
 
Read: Matthew 25:1-13
1 Then shall the kingdom of heaven be likened unto ten virgins, which took their lamps, and went forth to meet the bridegroom.
2 And five of them were wise, and five were foolish.
3 They that were foolish took their lamps, and took no oil with them:
4 But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps.
5 While the bridegroom tarried, they all slumbered and slept.
6 And at midnight there was a cry made, Behold, the bridegroom cometh; go ye out to meet him.
7 Then all those virgins arose, and trimmed their lamps.
8 And the foolish said unto the wise, Give us of your oil; for our lamps are gone out.
9 But the wise answered, saying, Not so; lest there be not enough for us and you: but go ye rather to them that sell, and buy for yourselves.
10 And while they went to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage: and the door was shut.
11 Afterward came also the other virgins, saying, Lord, Lord, open to us.
12 But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.
13 Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy 11-12, Ephesians 1
 

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

1. In the Jewish culture and tradition, wedding festivities are usually held in the evening and run into the night.
2. Typically, the bridegroom would go to meet his bride in her father’s house with lamps, and the bridal train would proceed from the bride’s father’s house to the groom’s house, where a feast would be provided for the invited guests. It was against this backdrop that the Lord Jesus Christ gave the parable of the ten virgins.
3. In general, the parable speaks of the second coming of our Lord and of the judgement that will accompany His return. In this prarable, the Lord classified the people His message was targeted at into two groups: the wise and the foolish.
4. There are various lessons to be learnt from this parable of the ten virgins, especially because it contains a lot of symbolism with deep spiritual meanings.
5. The virgins, lamps, oil, the absence of the bridegroom, slumbering and sleeping, the midnight, the cry, the trimming of lamps, having no oil, asking for oil, the refusal to give oil, entering into the feast, and several other aspects of the story represent different aspects of our Christian race to heaven. However, we will be considering just a few lessons behind some of these metaphors.
6. The virgins represent the Church, while Jesus is the Bridegroom. The message of the parable is therefore for the Church and not for the world.
7. We are warned in this parable that our Bridegroom may delay His coming. He may not come at the time we expect, but He will surely come at midnight, meaning that He will come suddenly and unexpectedly. Not that all the virgins who set out to meet the bridegroom dozed off and slept. The only thing that separated the wise virgins from the foolish ones was the level of their preparedness. The wise virgins took extra oil with them in anticipation of a delay in the bridegroom’s arrival, while the foolish ones failed in this regard. They obviously did not anticipate that the coming of the bridegroom could be so delayed. Their failure to take extra oil made the difference and determined their fate.
8. The Lord will take only those who are ready at His coming into the marriage supper. The door will be shut against those who are not ready after the call has gone out, and it will not be opened to anyone who comes late.
9. The practical lesson of this parable therefore is the unexpected nature of the Lord’s Coming. We must be ever ready to meet the Lord.
10. The lamps of our faith and Bible study must be kept burning all through the day and night.
11. We must uphold and defend the truth in the word of God. We must not allow modern thinking and liberal theology to water down or pollute our faith.
12. We must keep our focus on the message of the gospel as we continue to follow the footsteps of our Master, Jesus Christ.

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

Let’s all be at alert and awaken for the second coming. As mentioned in the devotional, the time is not known ahead therefore prior preparation should be made to secure our place. The Bible says “Behold, I tell you a mystery: We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed— in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised incorruptible, and we shall be changed.” ‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭15:51-52‬ To God be the glory for blessing our generation with Pastor E.A Adeboye. May God renew his strength daily in Jesus name.
 

Prayer Point:
Father, please help me never to lose sight of Your second coming in Jesus’ name.
Hymn 9
1. 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.
Chorus:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it someday for a crown.
2. 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.
3. In that old rugged cross, I stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ‘twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me.
4. To that 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.

Please follow and like us:

20

Memorise: But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; 1 Peter 1:15
 
Read: Hebrews 12:13-17
13 And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.
14 Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord:
15 Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled;
16 Lest there be any fornicator, or profane person, as Esau, who for one morsel of meat sold his birthright.
17 For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears.
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy 7-8, Galatians 4:21 – 5:15
 

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

1. Today, we will be reflecting on the necessity of holy living to the success of our Christian journey.
2. Looking at this topic through the eyes of the book of Leviticus helps us to better understand God’s mindset concerning it. The book of Leviticus reveals the holiness as a way of life. In reality, holiness is the only kind of life approved by God.
3. The purpose of Leviticus was to show the Israelites how to live in ritual and moral purity.
4. Whenever they met God’s standard of purity, He approved of them, so much so that He came to live amongst them. However, whenever they forsook the lifestyle of holiness, He would in turn abandon them to the hands of their enemies. From the example of the children of Israel, it is obvious that holy living is necessary for a continuous, unbroken fellowship with the Almighty God.
5 To understand the necessity for holy living as a Christian, we have much to learn from the instructions on holy living in the book of Leviticus.
6. First, we must understand something about God’s holiness. Leviticus 11:44 and 1 Peter 1:16 both contain the same message from God on holiness: “You have to be holy because I am holy.” Holiness is the nature of God, and because He cannot change, He remains holy forever. Since He cannot behold sin, it is therefore necessary that anyone who will come to Him must live holy (Habakkuk 1:13).
7. Secondly, holy living becomes necessary when we consider the great price paid for our redemption from sin (1 Peter 1:18-19). As a true Christian, when you think about the agony, pain, deep sorrow and emotional trauma of the passion of Christ, you will not want to do anything that would amount to crucifying Him the second time.
8. Thirdly, all Christians have the honourable duty of presenting only their best to God in every situation they find themselves. In light of this, Romans 12:1 tells us to present out bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God.
9. You need to understand that the view of some that the salvation received when we become born again cannot be lost under any circumstance is at variance with the true message of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Hebrews 10:26 says: “For if we sin willfully after that we have received the knowledge of the truth, there remaineth no more sacrifice for sins.” Hence, a holy lifestyle is not an option, but rather a necessary condition for a successful Christian life.

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

Follow peace with all men, and holiness, without which no man shall see the Lord: Hebrews 12:14 This scriptures states that holiness as well as being in peace with all men is a requirement for us to see God. The grace to do this shall be released unto us in Jesus name. We are daily refreshed as we study the Open Heavens devotional. May God continually increase Pastor E.A Adeboye in wisdom and strength in Jesus name.

Prayer Point:
Father, help me walk in holiness as a lifestyle for the rest of my life in Jesus’ Name.
Hymn
1. 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.
Chorus:
So I’ll cherish the old rugged cross
Till my trophies at last I lay down;
I will cling to the old rugged cross,
And exchange it someday for a crown.
2. 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.
3. In that old rugged cross, I stained with blood so divine,
A wondrous beauty I see,
For ‘twas on that old cross Jesus suffered and died,
To pardon and sanctify me.
4. To that 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.

Please follow and like us:

20

Memorise: Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father. John 14:12
 
Read: Acts 4:8-14
8 Then Peter, filled with the Holy Ghost, said unto them, Ye rulers of the people, and elders of Israel,
9 If we this day be examined of the good deed done to the impotent man, by what means he is made whole;
10 Be it known unto you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth, whom ye crucified, whom God raised from the dead, even by him doth this man stand here before you whole.
11 This is the stone which was set at nought of you builders, which is become the head of the corner.
12 Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
13 Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.
14 And beholding the man which was healed standing with them, they could say nothing against it.
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy 5-6, Galatians 4:1-20
 

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

1. Today’s memory verse focuses on one of the farewell statements of the Lord Jesus Christ that I consider to be utmost importance to the Body of Christ today. This statement was addressed to anyone who believe in Jesus as the Messiah.
2. Note that the mandate contained in this statement is not directed at the 12 disciples or any special group. It was not directed at bishops, pastors, prophets, evangelist or other “highly spiritual” Christians. Jesus was speaking to anyone who believes in Him, which means all Christians.
3. Although all Christians claim to believe in Jesus, a vast majority are not even aware of this important mandate of the Master, while some others, due to unbelief, argue that it is impossible to walk in the reality of it.
4. The word “works” in this mandate comprises of everything Jesus did during His whole earthly ministry. These include teaching, preaching, discipleship, miracles, signs and wonders.
5. The question then is: are we Christians doing the works that Jesus did? The answer is obvious. May the Lord ignite His fire in His Church and wake us up to our responsibilities in Jesus’ Name.
 
6. Discipleship is the process of following Jesus Christ, serving Him and obeying Him in all things. Jesus encouraged His disciples to strive to become like Him so that they can represent Him in His absence (Mark 9:17-19, Matthew 10:25a).
7. The template of discipleship instituted by the Lord demands that anyone who wants to be a true disciple must first deny himself or herself (Matthew 16:24).
8. Self-denial is all about sacrificing personal interests and preferences to focus on the will of the Master only.
9. The Christan race becomes very easy for anyone who is able to take this very important step.
10. Soon after I gave my life to Christ, the Lord helped me to give up my personal ambition of becoming the youngest occupant of the highest office in the academic world on the African continent. This decision helped me to commit the whole of my time, attention, money and all other resources at my disposal to the service of God. It paid off, as the Lord took me from my humble beginnings to where I am today.
11. The Lord says no one can serve two masters; every disciple is therefore expected to be totally committed to God and His kingdom business (Matthew 6:24). Doing the works of Jesus entails going out to proclaim the message of the gospel, and demonstrating acts of mercy, love and compassion around the world.
12. We must live in holiness as good examples to the world. We must live in holiness as good examples to the world. Our message must be backed up with the manifestation of the power of the Holy Spirit in signs, wonders and miracles. We must win souls and disciple them to maturity. Nothing short of these is acceptable as the works of Jesus.

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

Before any believer manifest just like the Master “ JESUS” same must also be crucified with Him and let go of self. According to above definitions “Self-denial  is all about sacrificing personal interest and preferences to focus on the will of the Master”. The question is; are we truly sacrificing our personal interests to the will of the Master? What has the Master required from us recently that we failed to let go of? May God help us to work according to His will I jesus name. God bless and empower Pastor E.A Adeboye for greater works in Jesus name.

Prayer Point:
Father, please grant me the grace to do greater works as mandated by Your Son, in Jesus’ Name.
Hymn
I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
I have decided to follow Jesus;
No turning back, no turning back.
The world behind me, the cross before me;
The world behind me, the cross before me;
The world behind me, the cross before me;
No turning back, no turning back.
Though none go with me, still I will follow;
Though none go with me, still I will follow;
Though none go with me, still I will follow;
No turning back, no turning back.
My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus;
My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus;
My cross I’ll carry, till I see Jesus;
No turning back, no turning back.
Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
Will you decide now to follow Jesus?
No turning back, no turning back.

Please follow and like us:

20

Memorise: we have also a more sure word of prophecy; whereunto ye do well that ye take heed, as unto a light that shineth in a dark place, until the day dawn, and the day star arise in your hearts: 2 Peter 1:19
Read: Malachi 4:1-3
1 For, behold, the day cometh, that shall burn as an oven; and all the proud, yea, and all that do wickedly, shall be stubble: and the day that cometh shall burn them up, saith the Lord of hosts, that it shall leave them neither root nor branch.
2 But unto you that fear my name shall the Sun of righteousness arise with healing in his wings; and ye shall go forth, and grow up as calves of the stall.
3 And ye shall tread down the wicked; for they shall be ashes under the soles of your feet in the day that I shall do this, saith the Lord of hosts.
Bible in one year: Deuteronomy 4, Galatians 3

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

1. The Almighty God created the sun as the major source of light and heat for the earth. He also appointed the sun as an indicator of time and direction (Genesis 1:14-15).
2. A new day begins with the rising of the sun, and its setting indicates the end of the day.
3. Have you noticed the effect that the sun has on people’s overall mood? People tend to be more active on a bright and sunny day. Ecclesiastes 11:7 says, “Truly the light is sweet, and a pleasant thing it is for the eyes to behold the sun:”
4. The sun also serves the vital role of sustaining life on earth by stimulating plants and other organisms to produce food. Deuteronomy 33:14a says, “And for the precious fruits brought forth by the sun,” As advantageous as the sun is to mankind, God also uses it as a weapon against evildoers and to correct His own disobedient children (Revelation 16:8-9). Jonah 4:8 says, And it came to pass. When the sun did arise, that God prepared a vehement east wind; and the sun beat upon the head of Jonah, that he fainted, and wished in himself to die,”
5. When you understand the importance of the sun to mankind, you will then begin to appreciate and better comprehend what the Holy Spirit declares to you in Isaiah 60:20: “Thy sun shall no more go down; neither shall thy moon withdraw itself: for the LORD shall be thine everlasting light, and the days of thy mourning shall be ended.”
6. I therefore pray that in accordance to God’s word, your sun will not go down, and your day will not be turned to night in Jesus’ Name.
7. The devil knows the importance of light and is very familiar with darkness. This is the reason why he attacks people by extinguishing their light and throwing them into outer darkness.
8. If you are experiencing darkness in any way, I am happy to announce to you that Jesus has the power to turn your night to day (John 8:12). Darkness may endure for a night, but be sure that Sun of Righteousness will rise over your life in the morning.
9. Even though the devil may have succeeded in putting out your light by whatever means, our Lord Jesus Christ is able to make your sun rise again by the power of His word, and He has sent His word to you today.
10. I therefore decree in the Name of Jesus, wherever there is darkness in your life, let there be light now! Receive the light of God for illumination, direction, sustenance, health and joy!

SHORT REFLECTION BY THE LIGHT POINTERS

My question to you is that are you Christ? This is because whoever is in Christ can never live in darkness. “Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” John 8:12 May God continually uphold and strengthen Pastor E.A Adeboye in Jesus name.

Prayer Point:
Father, let my light shine all over the world, and make me relevant to Your plans in Jesus’ Name.
Hymn 10
1. My faith look up to Thee,
Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Savior divine!
Now hear me while I pray,
Take all my guilt away,
Oh, let me from this day
Be wholly Thine!
2. May Thy rich grace impart
Strength to my fainting heart,
My zeal inspire!
As Thou hast died for me,
Oh. May my love to Thee
Pure, warm, and changeless be,
A living fire!
3. While life’s dark maze I tread,
And griefs around me spread,
Be Thou my guide;
Bid darkness turn to day,
Wipe sorrow’s tears away,
Nor let me ever stray
From Thee aside.
4. When ends life’s transient dream,
When death’s cold, sullen stream shall o’er me roll;
Blest Savior, then in love,
Fear and distrust remove;
Oh, bear me safe above,
A ransomed soul!

Please follow and like us:

20