The Word

  Not unto us, O Lord, not unto us, but to Your Name give glory, because of Your mercy, and because of Your truth.  Almighty God, thank you for the grace these three months in the year 2025. I glorify Your Name for protecting and providing daily for me and my family. You have kept us from evil and delivered us from the snare of the Fowler. Blessed be Your Name now and forevermore.  Lord, You have been mindful of us; You have blessed us; You will bless our house; You will bless us both home and abroad. You have blessed us who fear Your Name, both small and great. Increase us, Lord, more and more in our health and finances this year and beyond. Gracious Father, I commit the month of April to Your care. Please let grace speak over it and daily manifest Your miracles and favour in my life and that of my family. May any evil agenda of the wicked against us be destroyed. I decree the month of April shall announce our lifting and rising. It shall showcase the awesome wonders of ...

The blessed of God, who faithfully hold on to Him, cannot be cursed by man or evil spirit. It is recorded in Numbers 23:23 No curse can touch Jacob; no magic has any power against Israel. For now it will be said of Jacob, ‘What wonders God has done for Israel.  Declare, I stand on the Word of God to decree over my life and family that no curse can touch us; no magic has any power against us. For now it will be said of us, ‘What wonders God has done for us!’ AMEN!

The Pharisees were a Jewish sect that emerged during the second Temple period (515 BCE- 70 CE). They played a significant role in Jewish society and are frequently mentioned in the New Testament. They opposed Jesus and His disciples but were unsuccessful. Some came to learn from Jesus an example is Nicodemus whilst one (Saul who became known as Paul) was converted on the way of Damascus.  Some Lessons to Learn From the Attitude of the Pharisees: The Pharisees' story offers several valuable lessons which includes but not limited to: √ The Attitude of Legalism as against Love: The Pharisees' strict adherence to rules and traditions often led them to prioritize law over love and compassion. This teaches us to balance rules with empathy and kindness. √ The Attitude of Hypocrisy and Authenticity: Jesus criticized the Pharisees for their hypocrisy, highlighting the importance of authenticity and integrity in our actions and words. √ Conformity to the Spirit as against the Letter of ...

Theme: Avoid Ungodly Competition Text: John 12:19 19 The Pharisees therefore said among themselves, “You see that you are accomplishing nothing. Look, the world has gone after Him!” Competition is not bad; it creates an avenue for diligence and hard work. However, unhealthy competition can ruin relationships and development. The Pharisees in today's text reveal a mindset that’s all too familiar today: an ungodly competitive spirit. They’re not just concerned about faith; they’re obsessed with their status and power. As Jesus gains followers, their jealousy boils over. Instead of embracing the truth, they plot to eliminate the competition. It’s a stark reminder of how pride can distort our purpose. They see faith as a game where winning means control, not connection. This relentless pursuit of superiority blinds them to the very message of love and humility that Jesus embodies. In their quest to maintain their position, they miss the miracle unfolding right before their eyes. It’s ...

Theme: The Power of Witnessing Text: John 12:17&18 17 Therefore the people, who were with Him when He called Lazarus out of his tomb and raised him from the dead, bore witness. 18 For this reason, the people also met Him because they heard that He had done this sign.   Previous devotion taught us that many came to see Jesus because he raised Lazarus from the dead. The text for today is a pivotal moment in the Gospel narrative. The crowd that had witnessed Jesus raise Lazarus from the dead is now buzzing with excitement. They’re not just spectators but active participants in the unfolding miracle. Their enthusiasm reflects a profound recognition of Jesus as a miracle worker, a figure of hope. This text highlights the powerful impact of our personal testimony of what Christ has done for us. Just like the people who saw Lazarus come back to life were spreading the word, igniting curiosity and faith among others, we are reminded that our experiences with the Lord should insp...

Theme: Glory Attracts Remembrance  Text: John 12:16 16 His disciples did not understand these things at first; but when Jesus was glorified, then they remembered that these things were written about Him and that they had done these things to Him. Oftentimes, when we are over tensed we hardly recall incidents. However, when we are relaxed, we can easily recall. Think of the pressure during an examination sometimes, we forget simple things but easily recall when not under duress. This was what the disciples of Jesus experienced. The disciples might have read much about the Messiah but didn't understand it. In today's text, we see a fascinating moment where the disciples reflect on the events surrounding Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem. It’s intriguing how they didn’t fully grasp the significance of what was happening at the time. They remembered the prophecy, but it wasn’t until after Jesus was glorified that the pieces fell into place. This highlights a profound truth: s...

Theme: The King is Coming  Text: John 12:14&15 14 Then Jesus, when He had found a young donkey, sat on it; as it is written: 15 “Fear not, daughter of Zion; Behold, your King is coming, sitting on a donkey’s colt.” Jesus is the King of kings and His entry into Jerusalem was very humbling. He rode on a colt. In our dispensation and even when Jesus decided to ride on a colt no king would willingly do so. The entourage of the king alone displays his wealth and majesty. However, Jesus did the reverse to draw us closer to Himself. The rich and mighty King of kings chose to present Himself to us in a lowly form. Dear beloved in the Lord, fear not, approach the King and lay your request before Him. The second coming of the King will be to usher the faithful into His glorious Kingdom and to punish the unfaithful. If you desire to enter His Kingdom, align your ways with His and live in His will.    Let us Pray: Almighty God, thank You for the assurance not to fear. Help me t...

Theme: Hosanna Text: John 12:12&13 12 The next day a great multitude that had come to the feast, when they heard that Jesus was coming to Jerusalem, 13 took branches of palm trees and went out to meet Him, and cried out: “Hosanna! ‘Blessed is He who comes in the name of the Lord!’ The King of Israel!”  The world around us seems so busy that one hardly has time for his neighbour. Growing up, I've learned from the elderly that when one shouts for rescue, value must be added to it and attended to immediately. So if a person shouts for help, all those available must come out to assist. In today's text, it is the vulnerable who are shouting hosanna! The word hosanna means, "Save us, Lord!" Their plea to be rescued comes from the miracle of Lazarus being raised from the dead. If Christ can bring the dead back to life, what then can He not do? This might be the motive of the multitude that welcomed the Lord. They were overburdened by the government and their very own peo...

 

Our study today will be on the lessons to be learned from the parable of the unforgiving servant in Matthew 18:21-35. In this season of lent, we ought to cultivate the habit of forgiving others and living peaceably with all. In the parable of the unforgiving servant, we learn a powerful lesson about mercy and forgiveness. Picture this: a servant owes an enormous debt, one he could never repay. His master, moved by compassion, forgives him entirely. But then, this same servant encounters someone who owes him a fraction of that amount. Instead of showing the same mercy, he demands payment and even throws the man in prison.  Lessons from the Parable of the Unforgiving Servant: √ This story highlights a crucial truth: we often forget the grace we've received when faced with the shortcomings of others. It challenges us to reflect on our own lives—how often do we hold onto grudges, forgetting the countless times we've been forgiven?  √ The parable teaches us that forgiveness is not ...

Theme: The Plot to Kill Text: John 12:9-11 9 Now a great many of the Jews knew that He was there; and they came, not for Jesus’ sake only, but that they might also see Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. 10 But the chief priests plotted to put Lazarus to death also, 11 because on account of him, many of the Jews went away and believed in Jesus. In our walks of life we must understand that when great things come our way or happen, we attract both good and evil. While others will be in awe some will be hostile towards us. In the case of Lazarus, the Jews came to see the dead man raised to life. However, the chief priests had different intentions because they were no longer given the attention expected. Dear beloved in the Lord, not everyone at your celebration is there to celebrate with you. Some are there to spot loopholes to destroy you. The plot to kill you can come in different forms. Therefore be vigilant and don't lose guard.  Let us Pray: Almighty God, set guards ove...

Theme: Most Pressing Need Text: John 12:7&8 7 But Jesus said, “Let her alone; she has kept this for the day of My burial. 8 For the poor you have with you always, but Me you do not have always.” Previous devotion taught us Judas Iscariot was not pleased the expensive oil was used to anoint Jesus. He saw it as a waste when the poor could be helped with the amount to be accrued if it were sold. The text for today is Jesus' response to Judas Iscariot's lament. The Lord made known the purpose of the oil and how pressing it is for Him to be anointed. He does not in any way imply we should not care for the poor but rather reflect on our priorities. The most pressing need must be met before jumping to the others. Dear beloved in the Lord, as Christians, this highlights the importance of recognising Jesus’ impending sacrifice on the cross in this lent season and the need to cherish our relationship with Him. It challenges us to consider what we want to give for our faith. Are we ...

Theme: Never Wasted  Text: John 12:4-6 4 But one of His disciples, Judas Iscariot, Simon’s son, who would betray Him, said, 5 “Why was this fragrant oil not sold for three hundred denarii and given to the poor?” 6 This he said, not that he cared for the poor, but because he was a thief, and had the money box; and he used to take what was put in it. Previous devotions taught us that Mary poured expensive oil on Jesus to anoint Him. She did it with a clear mind of humility and service to the Lord. However, Judas Iscariot was displeased she wasted the oil. What does it mean to waste something? To waste means to spend carelessly or misuse something. Did Mary waste the fragrance oil? Certainly not! Dear beloved in the Lord, do not allow people's cynical ideologies to ruin your relationship with God. Likewise, you must not give room for the devil to use you to frustrate other people's efforts in life. Every help you give, whether to the Lord or to a fellow human being, note that i...

Theme: The Anointing Text: John 12:3 3 Then Mary took a pound of very costly oil of spikenard, anointed the feet of Jesus, and wiped His feet with her hair. And the house was filled with the fragrance of the oil. Previous devotion taught us that Lazarus and his siblings played a significant role in the life of Jesus Christ. We considered Lazarus and Martha in the previous devotion. The text for today focuses on Mary. The Lord praised her for choosing to listen to His teaching above her sister Martha, who was serving. During Christ's visit to her home, she anointed the Lord before His death. She gave the best fragrance of perfume to anoint the Lord. We are admonished by her example to present the best to the Lord. Imagine the scent filling the air, rich and intoxicating, as she poured it over His feet, wiping them with her hair. It was a bold statement of love and humility, challenging societal norms. Critics scoffed, calling it wasteful, but Mary understood something profound: tru...

Theme: The Visitation Text: John 12:1&2 12 Then, six days before the Passover, Jesus came to Bethany, where Lazarus was who had been dead, whom He had raised from the dead. 2 There they made Him a supper; and Martha served, but Lazarus was one of those who sat at the table with Him. Have you ever had the opportunity to dine with your helper or someone prominent who has contributed immensely to your success story? Guess you were overwhelmed. Lazarus had the opportunity to dine with Jesus who gave him a second chance by raising him to live after being in the grave for four days. Welcoming Jesus to both our homes and lives is key to our transformation. His visitation brings out the best in us. The three siblings Lazarus, Martha, and Mary each received their blessings for being named as associates of Jesus and for their great role in preparing Jesus for burial. Dear beloved in the Lord, Martha's hospitality is mentioned in the text. Despite having been told earlier to c...

To dwell in safety is one key expectation of every human being. Wars, insecurity, robbery attacks, hostility and the like do not give room for peace of mind. We would move about freely and at ease if we dwell in safety. This is what the Lord is providing assurance to us about in Psalms 121:7-8 The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul. The Lord shall preserve your going out and your coming in From this time forth, and even forevermore. Declare, in the Name of Jesus there shall be no barrier to my spiritual security from the Lord. I shall have divine hedge covering at all times wherever I go. I am preserved in the Lord. AMEN!

Gamaliel is a Hebrew name for boys that means "Reward of God, or God is my reward." He was a Pharisee respected  by all and a high council member (Sanhedrin).  Some Characteristics of Gamaliel: √ Gamaliel was a Pharisee. He was a teacher of religious law and influenced others with his position. As we serve in the house of God or in any capacity as leaders, we must serve well.  √ Gamaliel was used by the Holy Spirit to give the apostle a chance to proclaim Christ. When the council tried to forbid the apostle from teaching and leading people to Christ, he sighted significant examples to request the apostle be left alone:  He sighted the case of Theudas and Judas of Galilee. If we avail ourselves of good works, we will be used by the Holy Spirit. √ Gamaliel can be said to be a historian. He gave accounts of people who pretended to be great but after their death, their group came to nothing.  √ Gamaliel feared the wrath of God. His advice to the council suggested th...

Theme: Supplications Answered  Text: Psalms 31:21&22 21 Blessed be the Lord, for He has shown me His marvellous kindness in a strong city! 22 For I said in my haste, “I am cut off from before Your eyes”; Nevertheless, You heard the voice of my supplications when I cried out to You. Being on a foreign or strange ground can be uncomfortable for the first time especially when you have no friends. Sometimes issues in life such as health and financial crises can also make us uncomfortable. In these situations, we often feel God is far away and He does not hear our prayers. However, God is very near and He hears our supplications. It is not surprising the psalmist in the subsequent verses states that; " Oh, love the Lord, all you His saints!  For the Lord preserves the faithful a nd fully repays the proud person.  Be of good courage, a nd He shall strengthen your heart, a ll you who hope in the Lord (Psalms 31:23&24)". Dear beloved in the Lord, shake every doubt from ...

Theme: Stored Up Goodness Text: Psalms 31:19&20 19 Oh, how great is Your goodness, which You have laid up for those who fear You, which You have prepared for those who trust in You in the presence of the sons of men! 20 You shall hide them in the secret place of Your presence from the plots of man; You shall keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues. God has a great plan for anyone who fears and trusts Him. This is an unfailing plan because He never repents on His promise. He has said that His plans are for good, not evil, to bring us to an expected end. Dear beloved in the Lord, the stored up goodness of God can be accessed each day of our lives if we reverent Him and trust every area of our lives to Him. Previous devotion has taught us that the wicked lie in weight to destroy us but like David, we must trust God to rescue us. It is written, he who dwells in the secret place of the Most High, shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. The presence of God sha...

Theme: You'll Not Be Disgraced Text: Psalms 31:17-18 17 Don’t let me be disgraced, O Lord, for I call out to you for help. Let the wicked be disgraced; let them lie silent in the grave. 18 Silence their lying lips— those proud and arrogant lips that accuse the godly. Previous devotion taught us that David was overwhelmed by the schemes of his adversaries yet he trusted God to rescue him. In the text for today's study, he prayed that he would not be disgraced. To be disgraced implies to fall out of favour, grace, or honour. Grace, favour and honour come from God and He bestows it on anyone He chooses to. That is why we must cultivate the attitude of calling the Lord for help. David's plead is for the Lord to silence the wicked and to remove the cover of grace over them. Dear beloved in the Lord, you do not need to verbally or physically attack the wicked. Rather, petition the Throne of Grace to silence them so they cannot function or operate against the godly. Note, if you...

Theme: Lord, Rescue Me Text: Psalms 31:14-16 14 But I am trusting you, O Lord, saying, “You are my God!” 15 My future is in your hands. Rescue me from those who hunt me down relentlessly. 16 Let your favour shine on your servant. In your unfailing love, rescue me. The psalmist was in distress and his enemies surrounded him with wicked schemes. Despite being tormented by his adversaries, he trusts God's saving grace. Dear beloved in the Lord, what's your challenge: is it your marriage, finances, children, career, or business? Don't let the challenge distort your life and future. The psalmist knows who God is and what He can do in his circumstances. This is the spirit we must possess and entrust our future to the Lord to rescue us from recurring burdens. Petition God to rescue you from the challenge that is hunting you down. Seek His mercy and favour in all spheres of your life. You'll be amazed at the great and marvellous things God will do for you.  Let us Pray: Almi...

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Theme: Heavenly Wisdom Text: James 3:17&18 17 But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. 18 Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. Previous devotion taught us that earthly wisdom is self-seeking, bitter, evil, boastful, sensual, and demonic. Unlike earthly wisdom, heavenly wisdom is pure, peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, merciful, and fruitful, without partiality and hypocrisy. This kind of wisdom seeks to promote development and progress. The full manifestation of the fruit of the spirit is evident in the heavenly wisdom which transforms one to be like Christ in all spheres. Dear beloved in the Lord, have you considered why things are not working in your relationship, family, workplace, and community? I suggest you adopt the heavenly wisdom approach to issues. Note that the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those ...

God is able to qualify us even if we don't through grace. We are the Lord's workmanship recorded in Ephesians 2:8-10 "For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." Declare, I am the workmanship of God to do great exploits in my family, workplace, community, and the world. I decree the favour of God speaks on my behalf in health, marriage, education, finances, etc... in the Name of Jesus Christ. AMEN!

Our character for study today is Eglah. The name Eglah means "heifer" or "chariot." Eglah was one of eight wives of King David. Little is said about her except for her identification as David's wife and the mother of Ithream. She gave birth to a son named Ithream, who was born in Hebron. Ithream is listed as the sixth son of David.  Eglah's name means "heifer," symbolizing strength and fertility, which were highly valued traits. Eglah's presence in David's life reflects the political alliances formed through marriage, a common practice to secure peace and loyalty. Despite her brief mention, Eglah represents the often-unseen women who played crucial roles in biblical narratives.  Eglah's story invites us to consider the silent strength of those who support great leaders, reminding us that every figure in the Bible, no matter how small their mention, contributes to the larger tapestry of God's plan. Eglah's legacy may be subtle, b...