The Word

Theme: You are Resourced to be Responsible Text: James 5:4-6 4 Indeed, the wages of the laborers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, cry out; and the cries of the reapers have reached the ears of the Lord of Sabaoth. 5 You have lived on the earth in pleasure and luxury; you have fattened your hearts as in a day of slaughter. 6 You have condemned, you have murdered the just; he does not resist you In a previous devotion, we learned that our riches are corrupted if not gained rightly. Today's text serves as a powerful reminder of the moral and spiritual consequences of failing to pay workers fairly. It encourages us to align our actions with the principles of justice, compassion, and stewardship. We are reminded of the importance of justice, fair treatment, and compassion in our dealings with others.  The acknowledgement that God hears the cries of the oppressed reinforces the belief that He cares deeply about justice. We should advocate for and support fairness i...

 

Theme: Are Your Riches Corrupted? Text: James 5:1-3 5 Come now, you rich, weep and howl for your miseries that are coming upon you! 2 Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are moth-eaten. 3 Your gold and silver are corroded, and their corrosion will be a witness against you and will eat your flesh like fire. You have heaped up treasure in the last days.  In today's text, we find a stark warning to those who hoard wealth and indulge in corrupted riches. The passage speaks of the miseries that await the rich, highlighting how their treasures will rot and their fine clothes will become moth-eaten. This isn’t just a caution against greed; it’s a call to reflect on the fleeting nature of material wealth.  The key lesson to learn is that profound riches can corrupt our hearts and lead us away from what truly matters—compassion, generosity, and community. Instead of clinging to wealth, we should invest in relationships and acts of kindness. True richness lies not in what we...

Anyone in Christ stands firmly like a city built on the holy mountain and undeniably enjoys the love of God. This awesome truth is revealed in "Psalms 87:1-3 On the holy mountain stands the city founded by the Lord. He loves the city of Jerusalem more than any other city in Israel. O city of God, what glorious things are said of you!"  Declare, I am built in Christ and a child of the Most High God. I enjoy the Father's love in all spheres of life. It shall continually be said of me what glorious things God has done for me in the Name of Jesus Christ. AMEN!

The name Cleopas has Greek roots, derived from the combination of "kleos," meaning glory or fame, and "pater," meaning father. Thus, Cleopas can be interpreted to mean Glory of the Father. He was a disciple of Jesus Christ. It is likely his wife was Mary, who was spotted at Jesus's cross.  Some Characteristics of Cleopas: √ Cleopas, a lesser-known disciple of Jesus, embodies the essence of faith and perseverance. While the Gospels do not spotlight him like Peter or John, his presence is felt in the shadows of the New Testament. Imagine walking alongside Jesus, witnessing miracles, and yet remaining in the background. Do not always seek recognition.  √ Cleopas was there during the Last Supper, a silent observer of profound moments. Although we might not be seen, let us learn to be present at all events.  √ Cleopas, faced with doubts and helplessness, left Jerusalem for Emmaus when the news broke that Jesus had risen. He encountered the risen Christ on the road to...

Theme: Lost and Disheartened  Text: Luke 24:17-24 17 And He said to them, “What kind of conversation is this that you have with one another as you walk and are sad?” 18 Then the one whose name was Cleopas answered and said to Him, “Are You the only stranger in Jerusalem, and have You not known the things which happened there in these days?” 19 And He said to them, “What things?” So they said to Him, “The things concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a Prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, 20 and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to be condemned to death, and crucified Him. 21 But we were hoping that it was He who was going to redeem Israel. Indeed, besides all this, today is the third day since these things happened. 22 Yes, and certain women of our company, who arrived at the tomb early, astonished us. 23 When they did not find His body, they came saying that they had also seen a vision of angels who said He was alive. 24 And certain of tho...

Theme: The Journey to Emmaus Text: Luke 24:13-16 13 Now behold, two of them were traveling that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was seven miles from Jerusalem. 14 And they talked together of all these things which had happened. 15 So it was, while they conversed and reasoned, that Jesus Himself drew near and went with them. 16 But their eyes were restrained, so that they did not know Him. Have you ever felt helpless? What actions did you take, and what results did they bring? You're not alone, dear beloved in the Lord. Two disciples of Jesus also felt the same and travelled seven miles from what was a sign of danger to them. Reflecting on the journey of the two disciples leaving Jerusalem for Emmaus, one sees the weight of their despair. They were disheartened, grappling with the loss of hope after Jesus’ crucifixion. But why did they decide to leave? It teaches us that in moments of confusion and disappointment, we often seek to escape rather than confront our strug...

Theme: Women in Ministry Text: Luke 24:8-12 8 And they remembered His words. 9 Then they returned from the tomb and told all these things to the eleven and to all the rest. 10 It was Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, and the other women with them, who told these things to the apostles. 11 And their words seemed to them like idle tales, and they did not believe them. 12 But Peter arose and ran to the tomb; and stooping down, he saw the linen cloths lying by themselves; and he departed, marveling to himself at what had happened.  Previous devotion taught us that some women came at dawn to smear fragrance on the Lord's body but found the tomb empty. These women (Mary Magdalene, Joanna, Mary the mother of James, Salome, and other women) were the first witnesses of the risen Christ, a pivotal moment that reshaped the Gospel narrative. Their encounter at the tomb wasn't just a personal revelation but a divine commission. These women, filled with awe and joy, beca...

Theme: The Living Hope  Text: Luke 24:4-7 4 And it happened, as they were greatly perplexed about this, that behold, two men stood by them in shining garments. 5 Then, as they were afraid and bowed their faces to the earth, they said to them, “Why do you seek the living among the dead? 6 He is not here, but is risen! Remember how He spoke to you when He was still in Galilee, 7 saying, ‘The Son of Man must be delivered into the hands of sinful men, and be crucified, and the third day rise again.’ ” Yesterday's devotion taught us that some women came to the tomb of the Lord very early on the third day but did not find His body. In today's text, we shall delve into the question asked by the angel, "Why look for the living among the dead?" This profound statement challenges us to reconsider where we place our hope. The resurrection of Jesus is not just a historical event; it’s a radical declaration that life triumphs over death. The angel’s words remind us that in mom...

Theme: The Resurrection Text: Luke 24:1-3 24 Now on the first day of the week, very early in the morning, they, and certain other women with them, came to the tomb bringing the spices which they had prepared. 2 But they found the stone rolled away from the tomb. 3 Then they went in and did not find the body of the Lord Jesus. The resurrection of Christ played a vital role not only amongst the disciples and followers of Christ but also gave those who rejected Him every reason to believe He is indeed the Son of God. The resurrection isn't just a miraculous event; it's the cornerstone of our faith. His resurrection signifies victory over sin and death, offering us eternal life. It reassures us that no matter how dark our circumstances, there is always a path to redemption. The empty tomb is a powerful symbol of new beginnings, reminding us that every ending can lead to a glorious new chapter. Christ's resurrection invites us to embrace faith, to live boldly, and to share th...

It is recorded that a big stone was used to block the tomb of our Lord Jesus, and it was heavily guarded. However, when the dawn of the third day came, the stone was rolled away and the guards deserted the tomb. Matthew 28:2-4 "Suddenly, there was a great earthquake! For an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, rolled aside the stone, and sat on it. His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint." Dear beloved in the Lord, the power of Christ's resurrection shall roll away every hindrance to your victory.  Declare, Abba! Father, I present myself to You this day and ask for the grace of victory to triumph in life. By the power of God that raised Christ from the dead, I decree any evil veil, barrier, or satanic coverage to my glory is rolled away. I come out of stagnation, disappointment, setbacks, failures, an unproductive life, and any demonic operations hindering my gr...

Our character for study today is Pontius Pilate. Pontius means "of the sea," while Pilate means "armed with a javelin". He was a Roman governor of Judea and played a significant role in the trial of Jesus Christ.  Some Characteristics of Pontius Pilate: √ Pontius Pilate faced a moral dilemma: to uphold justice or to appease the crowd demanding Jesus' crucifixion. Pilate’s actions teach us the dangers of inaction and the consequences of compromising our values. Let us do the right thing, no matter what it takes.  √ Pontius Pilate washed his hands, symbolising his attempt to distance himself from the crowd's decision to crucify Jesus, yet he couldn’t escape accountability. The lesson we can learn as Christians is the importance of standing firm in our beliefs, even when faced with pressure.  √ Pilate’s story reminds us that leadership requires courage and integrity, and that turning a blind eye to injustice can have lasting repercussions. In our own lives, we ...

Theme: The Betrayer at Hand Text: Matthew 26:44-46 44 So He left them, went away again, and prayed the third time, saying the same words. 45 Then He came to His disciples and said to them, “Are you still sleeping and resting? Behold, the hour is at hand, and the Son of Man is being betrayed into the hands of sinners. 46 Rise, let us be going. See, My betrayer is at hand.” Previous devotion taught us that Jesus had been praying in the Garden of Gethsemane while His inner core disciples couldn't watch and pray with Him. On His return the third time, we witness a crucial moment in the narrative of betrayal. Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus' closest disciples, seals his fate with a kiss, a gesture that transformed friendship into treachery. This act doesn’t just lead to Jesus’ arrest; it shatters the trust among the disciples and sets off a chain reaction of events that changed the course of history.  Judas’ betrayal highlights the fragility of loyalty and the complexity of human mo...

Theme: The Lord's Will Text: Matthew 26:42&43 42 Again, a second time, He went away and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if this cup cannot pass away from Me unless I drink it, Your will be done.” 43 And He came and found them asleep again, for their eyes were heavy. In the text for consideration, we witness a heartfelt moment of struggle and surrender. Jesus, in His anguish, prays for strength, reminding us that even in our darkest hours, seeking help is okay. This teaches us the importance of vulnerability in our faith. We often think we must be strong, but true strength lies in acknowledging our weaknesses and turning to God.  When He says, “Not as I will, but as you will,” we learn about the power of submission. It’s a reminder that our plans may not always align with God’s purpose. Embracing this can lead to deeper faith and trust. When Jesus returns to His disciples and finds them sleeping, it highlights our human tendency to drift away when we should be vigilant. This cha...

Theme: Watch & Pray  Text: Matthew 26:40-41 40 Then He came to the disciples and found them sleeping, and said to Peter, “What! Could you not watch with Me one hour? 41 Watch and pray, lest you enter into temptation. The spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.” The text for today is a pivotal moment where Jesus urges His disciples to watch and pray. This isn't just a call to stay awake; it’s a profound lesson on vigilance and spiritual readiness. Imagine the weight of those words as He faces His impending crucifixion. He knows the trials ahead and wants His followers to be prepared. It’s not just about physical watchfulness; it’s a call to engage with God through prayer, to fortify their spirits against temptation When He says, "The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak," He highlights our human struggle. It’s a reminder that while we may desire to be faithful, we often falter. Watching and praying isn’t just about avoiding temptation but cultivating a d...

Theme: The Father's Will Be Done  Text: Matthew 26:39 39 He went a little farther and fell on His face, and prayed, saying, “O My Father, if it is possible, let this cup pass from Me; nevertheless, not as I will, but as You will.” In our previous devotion, we learned that Jesus went to the Garden of Gethsemane to pray with His core disciples. Today's text is the prayer He offered in the Garden of Gethsemane. This prayer reveals the depth of His humanity and the weight of His impending sacrifice. It’s a raw expression of vulnerability, showing that even the Son of God felt fear and anguish. It’s a powerful reminder that even in our darkest moments, it’s okay to seek relief. Yet, what stands out is His ultimate submission to God's will. This moment teaches us about the power of surrender—embracing our struggles while trusting in God's great plan. His prayer highlights the essence of faith—trusting in God's plan, even when it’s hard. Jesus models how to confront our f...

Theme: The Gethsemane Prayer Text: Matthew 26:36-38 36 Then Jesus came with them to a place called Gethsemane, and said to the disciples, “Sit here while I go and pray over there.” 37 And He took with Him Peter and the two sons of Zebedee, and He began to be sorrowful and deeply distressed. 38 Then He said to them, “My soul is exceedingly sorrowful, even to death. Stay here and watch with Me.”  As we near Easter, our attention will be on events leading to the Lord's crucifixion. The text for consideration today is His last moment at the Garden of Gethsemane. This is the Lord's prayer ground, where He communes with the Father. Jesus, fully aware of the impending crucifixion, reveals His vulnerability. He asks His disciples to stay awake and pray, expressing deep sorrow and anguish. This moment teaches us that even the strongest among us can feel overwhelmed.  This action of the Lord is a powerful reminder that it’s okay to show our struggles. Jesus models the importance...

A fortified city has well secured gates and security is highly tight. The citizens can rely entirely on their security force. To us who are in Christ, we depend on God's assurance in the blessings pronounced by Moses in Deuteronomy 33:25-27 - May the bolts of your gates be of iron and bronze; may you be secure all your days.” “There is no one like the God of Israel. He rides across the heavens to help you, across the skies in majestic splendor. The eternal God is your refuge, and his everlasting arms are under you. He drives out the enemy before you; he cries out, ‘Destroy them!’ Declare, in the Name of Jesus Christ, the bolts of my gates shall be of iron and bronze. I shall be secure all the days of my life. God shall ride across the heavens to help me in His majestic splendor. The eternal God is my refuge, and His everlasting arms are under me. He drives out the enemy before me with a cry out, ‘Destroy them!’ AMEN!

The Sadducees, a powerful sect in ancient Judea, were known for their strict adherence to the Torah and their rejection of the oral traditions upheld by the Pharisees.  Some Lessons to Learn from the Attitude of the Sadducees:  First, we see the danger of being overly dogmatic. The Sadducees denied the resurrection, missing the hope that comes with it. This reminds us to remain open to the mysteries of God, embracing the fullness of our faith.  Second, their focus on power and status teaches us about humility. They were more concerned with their position than with serving others. As followers of Christ, we are called to lead by example, prioritizing love and service over authority.  Lastly, the Sadducees' rejection of spiritual realities warns us against neglecting the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. We must stay connected to God’s guidance, allowing His Spirit to shape our lives. In these lessons, we find a call to deeper faith, humility, and spiritual awar...

Theme: New Covenant of Grace Text: Luke 22:20-23 20 Likewise He also took the cup after supper, saying, “This cup is the new covenant in My blood, which is shed for you. 21 But behold, the hand of My betrayer is with Me on the table. 22 And truly the Son of Man goes as it has been determined, but woe to that man by whom He is betrayed!” 23 Then they began to question among themselves, which of them it was who would do this thing. Previous devotion taught us that Jesus offered the disciples His body and blood in the form of bread and wine. In today's text, Jesus takes the cup and says, “This cup is the new covenant in my blood, which is poured out for you.” This profound moment signifies a radical shift in our relationship with God. The old covenant, marked by laws and sacrifices, is transformed into a new covenant of grace and redemption. Jesus is not just sharing a meal; He’s establishing a promise that His sacrifice will bring forgiveness and reconciliation.  When He mentions...

Theme: The Body & Blood  Text: Text Luke 22:17-18 17 Then He took the cup, and gave thanks, and said, “Take this and divide it among yourselves; 18 for I say to you, I will not drink of the fruit of the vine until the kingdom of God comes.” 19 And He took bread, gave thanks and broke it, and gave it to them, saying, “This is My body which is given for you; do this in remembrance of Me.”   Yesterday's devotion taught us that all was set for the Lord to have the Last Supper with the disciples. In today's text, He shares a cup of wine and breaks bread, saying, “This is my body, given for you; do this in remembrance of me.” The magnitude of this statement is profound. It’s not just a meal; it’s a covenant, a radical invitation to partake in His sacrifice. Imagine the weight of those words! Jesus is redefining the Passover, shifting the focus from the exodus to His impending sacrifice. He’s establishing a new way of communion, where every sip and bite becomes a reminder of H...

Theme: The Last Supper Text: Luke 22:14-16 14 When the hour had come, He sat down, and the twelve apostles with Him. 15 Then He said to them, “With fervent desire I have desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer; 16 for I say to you, I will no longer eat of it until it is fulfilled in the kingdom of God.” Previous devotion taught us that Jesus requested His disciples to prepare a place for the Passover meal. Today's text focuses on the day of the Passover and its unfolding events. What was your experience the last time the entire family was together to feast or dine? Guess it was such an awesome moment to behold, and you wished it would be a daily affair. In reflecting on the essence of the Last Supper, we are struck by the profound significance of this moment. Jesus gathers with His disciples, sharing a meal that transcends mere sustenance. He speaks of eagerly desiring to eat this Passover with them, highlighting the deep connection and love He has for His follower...

Theme: Step Out in Obedience Text: Luke 22:9-13 9 So they said to Him, “Where do You want us to prepare?” 10 And He said to them, “Behold, when you have entered the city, a man will meet you carrying a pitcher of water; follow him into the house which he enters. 11 Then you shall say to the master of the house, ‘The Teacher says to you, “Where is the guest room where I may eat the Passover with My disciples?” ’ 12 Then he will show you a large, furnished upper room; there make ready.” 13 So they went and found it just as He had said to them, and they prepared the Passover. In the text for consideration, we witness a profound moment as Jesus instructs His disciples to prepare the Passover meal. Imagine the excitement and confusion among them! They ask, “Where do you want us to prepare it?” This question reveals their eagerness to serve, despite their uncertainty about the unfolding events. Jesus’ response is striking; He tells them to follow a man carrying a jar of water into the c...

Theme: The Preparation Text: Luke 22:7&8 7 Then came the Day of Unleavened Bread, when the Passover must be killed. 8 And He sent Peter and John, saying, “Go and prepare the Passover for us, that we may eat.” An organised life is profitable than one that is not. Whatever we intend to achieve well in life must be carried out with immerse preparation. The Lord Jesus knows the essence of the Passover to the Israelites. He wants to ensure His disciples could all have it with Him without suffering congestion. In the quest to prepare, He sent Peter and John ahead to make the place ready. Dear beloved in the Lord, we all need to plan our itineraries well lest we get overburdened. Plan for your life, education, vacation, marriage, and all other spheres of life. It will save finances and increase productive hours.  Let us Pray: Almighty God, please help me plan my life as expected. Grant me success in all I do. This I ask in the Name of Jesus Christ. AMEN! 

The most painful and devastating moments of life are when one is bedridden. This is an uncomfortable state. But there's good news for all who abide in the will of God. It is recorded in Psalms 41:3:  The Lord nurses them when they are sick and restores them to health.   Declare, "In the Name of Jesus Christ, the Almighty God shall strengthen me on my sickbed and restore me to good health. AMEN!"  

As we are nearing Easter, we have begun to study groups that opposed Jesus' ministry and sought to kill Him. Last week, we studied the Pharisees. Today, we shall learn about the Scribes.  Scribes in the Bible were more than just writers; they were the guardians of the Scriptures, meticulously copying and interpreting sacred texts. They played a crucial role in preserving the Law and teaching it to the people. How would you feel dedicating your life to ensuring that every letter and word was accurate? This was the Scribes' calling. But they weren't just about the text; they engaged with the community, often challenging Jesus and others on interpretations. This teaches us the importance of questioning and seeking understanding in our own faith journeys.  Lessons from the Attitude of the Scribes: √ Their dedication reminds us that knowledge is a powerful tool, and their interactions show us the value of dialogue and debate. So, whether we’re studying ancient texts or navigatin...

Theme: Prioritizing Our Spiritual Journey Text: John 12:25&26 25 He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. 26 If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor. Today's text challenges our natural instincts. We often cling to our comforts and ambitions, but Christ calls us to a radical shift in perspective. To truly live, we must be willing to let go of our self-centered desires. This isn’t about self-hatred; it’s about prioritizing our spiritual journey over worldly desires. Jesus challenges us to let go of our attachments, to embrace sacrifice for something greater. When we serve Him, we find true purpose and fulfillment. It’s a radical call to discipleship—where our lives are not just about personal gain but about serving others and glorifying God. In this paradox, we discover that we find our true selves by losing ourselves in...

Theme: Plentiful Harvest Text: John 12:23&24 23 But Jesus answered them, saying, “The hour has come that the Son of Man should be glorified. 24 Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain.  In our text for study today, Jesus reveals a profound truth about life and sacrifice. He says, "The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified." This isn’t just about His impending crucifixion; it’s a powerful metaphor for transformation. He compares His life to a grain of wheat that must fall to the ground and die to produce much fruit. This illustrates a fundamental principle: proper growth often requires letting go.  When we cling to our comforts and fears, we miss out on the potential for something greater. Jesus invites us to embrace change, to understand that our struggles can lead to new beginnings. It’s a call to live selflessly, to invest in others, and in doing so, we fi...

Theme: The Divine Request Text: John 12:20-22 20 Now there were certain Greeks among those who came up to worship at the feast. 21 Then they came to Philip, who was from Bethsaida of Galilee, and asked him, saying, “Sir, we wish to see Jesus.” 22 Philip came and told Andrew, and in turn Andrew and Philip told Jesus. Paying a visit to a high-profile person today requires appropriate permission, and approval is given before one can see such individuals. I want to believe this practice was effective in Jesus' days. When requesting the presence of the king or any high-profile individual, one ought to seek permission during those days. In that dispensation, the Greeks were not Jewish people; requesting to see Jesus meant they needed help from Him. There were two middle men, Philip and Andrews, before the Greeks could lay their request before Jesus. Dear beloved in the Lord, we don't need anyone to play a middle man for us before we speak with Jesus, our Saviour. We now have direc...

Welcome to the fourth month of the year 2025. Have a positive mindset this month and draw closer to God daily by studying His Word and praying . When you pray scriptures, your spirit man is charged to increase more in faith and receives God's promises easily. It is recorded in Numbers 23:19-21: "God is not a man, so he does not lie. He is not human, so he does not change his mind. Has he ever spoken and failed to act? Has he ever promised and not carried it through? Listen, I received a command to bless; God has blessed, and I cannot reverse it! No misfortune is in his plan for Jacob; no trouble is in store for Israel. For the Lord their God is with them; he has been proclaimed their king." We shall stand on this scripture to April over our lives and the month of April. Let us pray: Lord, unto You be all the glory and honor for granting me and my family life and good health into the fourth month. Our lips shall continually praise Your Holy Name. Thank You for keeping ever...