YOU CAN ACTIVATE IT

"That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus." Philemon 1:6 KJV. 

What kind of things do you say about yourself? Do you speak well of yourself, or are you critical of your appearance, your weight, your intelligence, your talents, your skills, and every other aspect of who you are as a person? Paul said we need to speak good things about ourselves. He said, “That the communication of thy faith may become effectual by the acknowledging of every good thing which is in you in Christ Jesus.” 

Even though God has done great things in you and has planned a powerful future for you, it is still up to you to activate His blessings in your life. Paul writes that “every good thing” has been placed in you by Jesus Christ. He has planned a future for your life that is simply glorious. You are loaded with potentials that is just waiting to be activated. A key in the ignition switch does no good unless it is turned; Likewise, the truth in your life does no good until it is spoken. The moment you open your mouth and start confessing the good things that are in you by Jesus Christ, a divine and supernatural connection is made between your faith and all that Jesus has deposited inside you. 

Never speak wrong words over yourself. Use your mouth and speak life to you, and start acknowledging who you are in Jesus Christ.

Further Scripture Study: Psalms 139:14

Declare This: Dear Father, I speak well of myself. I agree with all that Your Word declares me to be, and I speak these truths about myself in Jesus name Amen.

WORRIMENT

"Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes?" Matthew 6:25 NIV

I’m sure you know what it’s like when worry tries to flood your mind. It has a way of magnifying issues to the point of being ridiculous, but when you’re in the midst of the situation, it seems so real. Only after the event has passed do you realize how silly it was to be so worried about something that was so non-eventful. 

I remember counselling a brother, at that time he was consumed with worry. He paced back and forth, fretting, thinking, and pondering, making himself even more nervous by his anxious behavior. He was nothing but a bag of nerves sinking. I opened to Matthew 6:24-33 and Philippians 4:6 and gave him what he needed to hear. When I was done talking with him and praying for him, the peace that surpasses all knowledge welled up inside of him. 

In moments when worry or fear tries to wrap its life-draining tentacles around you, rush back to the truths of God's Word found in Matthew 6:24-33 and Philippians 4:6. Confess it, memorize it, meditate on it and allow it to become a part of your thinking. Take out specific time to talk to God in prayer. If there is one thing the devil wants you to be slack on, it is prayer.

Everything must be done through prayer. If prayer is neglected, your spiritual life will be weak and whatever you are trying to do for God will also be weak. So don’t let worry wrap its tentacles around you. Instead, listen to the advice from the scriptures about how to deal with the problems and concerns that try to assail your mind. 

Further Scripture Study: Philippians 4:6 

Declare This: Dear Father, I proclaim and announce that I am not ruled by worry, fear, or concerns. I go boldly to the throne of Grace with those things that are on my heart and what I expect Heaven to do on my behalf in Jesus name Amen.

PERFECT LOVE

“There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment. The one who fears is not made perfect in love.” 1 John 4:18 NIV

‭There’s no fear whatsoever in perfect love. If your child has ever welcomed you by jumping on you with his dirty hands, you’ll understand what I mean. Your child’s action was based on his love for you and the excitement to see you; he isn’t afraid of punishment for he expects you to respond with the same love and affection. That’s perfect love. There are children who are afraid to get close to their dad or mum. Such children aren’t growing in love but in fear, because they’re more conscious of the punishment than the parents’ love. But God’s love can’t be compared with our parents’ love, or the best expression of love we’ve had from anyone. God is more than a good daddy. “But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us, even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us (made us alive) together with Christ…” (Ephesians 2:4-5).‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

When you understand that the Father loves you, you won’t be afraid to come to Him. As far as God is concerned, you’re a joint heir with Christ, sharing the throne together. You represent Him on earth as He represents you in Heaven. Your heavenly Father doesn’t see you the way you think you are, but according to His Word; He loves you the same way He loves Jesus.

Don’t let the torment of fear change who you are in Christ. If you fear, it means your Love is fear based and not God based because God is Love. Love and fear don’t work together, Love will always cover and conceal fear. Love will forever defend you, but fear will attack you and make you resign.

Further Scripture Study: 2 Timothy 1:7; 1 John 4:16-17 

Declare This: Thank You Father for Your perfect love cast out all fears. You are a Good God who is rich in love. I am not afraid because Your love guides and protects me always in Jesus name Amen.

DO THE TRUTH

“Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honorable, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.”Philippians ‭4:8‬ ‭ASV‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

The book of Philippians was addressed by Paul to the Philippians and the scripture above was an admonition on what they should think on. Our life grows as a result of what we fill our minds with and when you fill your mind with the Truth, you can never go wrong. What then is the Truth? The Bible says in John 17:17 - Sanctify them by the Truth; Your word is Truth. The Truth is God's Holy Word. Truth is realty, it is the quality used to describe the words and utterances of God. This is the self expression of who God is, because God Himself is True. Truth is therefore the fundamental characteristics of God and His Words.

Jesus described Himself as the Truth, the only way to the Father, so the only way we can get to the Father is by accepting Him (The Truth). How then can we claim that we have and love the Truth? Firstly we must know Him, “He that saith, I know him, and keepeth not his commandments, is a liar, and the truth is not in him;” (1 John ‭2:4‬). It’s not just enough to know the truth, you must also "do" the Truth. Doing the Truth is as important as loving the Truth.

Be determined to express love for the truth by doing what the Word says. The Word says you are victorious, therefore live victorious; it says you are healed, live as the healed; it says you are blessed, a conqueror free from sin and death, live exactly the way the Word says you are, Glory to God.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬

Further Scripture Study: John 14:6 

Declare This: Dear Father, You are the Truth. I believe the truth and I do the truth. I'll keep Your commandments and stay in the truth of Your Love in Jesus name Amen.

WAITING

"But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint." Isaiah 40:31 KJV.

The above scripture gives a specific instruction; when you wait, your strength is renewed, you'll fly high as eagles, you will not be weak and you will not faint. Some are not good at waiting, some can't wait for just 3 mins for the popcorn in the microwave. We live in an instant society; fast food, buy now pay later, instant information on demand etc. Many unfortunately get impatient when they are waiting on God, they want the answer instantly and when they don't see it, they become weary. Waiting is a virtue and it's part of God's plan for our lives, you have to keep the frequency tuned and stay committed to the promise. 

An example of someone who waited was Abraham, even though God had made a promise to bless him and make him a father of many nations, it took several years for him to actually see the result as the father of many nations. He passionately waited on God even when others were laughing at him. Those who wait patiently on the Lord will never go wrong because at the end of the waiting, God will lift him/her up and renew their strength. Waiting builds your inner man, your character and your ability to trust in God only. This increases your faith.

Further Scripture Study: Psalm 27:14 

Declare This: Thank You Lord for the ability to wait on You, as I do this my strength, ability and faith in You gets stronger in Jesus name Amen.

DEVOTED AND STEADFAST

“And Ruth said, Entreat me not to leave thee, or to return from following after thee: for whither thou goest, I will go; and where thou lodgest, I will lodge: thy people shall be my people, and thy God my God:” Ruth‬ ‭1:16‬ ‭KJV‬‬

After the death of Naomi’s husband and her sons, she decided to return back to her native home. Before the death of her sons, they both had wives (Ruth & Orpah); Naomi told the daughters-in-law she was returning to her home land but Ruth declined to leave Naomi's side despite several plea and excuses from Naomi (read verses 6-15). Ruth showed her loyalty by remaining faithful and devoted to her mother in law. She said wherever you go I will go, where you live I will live and where you die, there will I be buried too (verse 17-18). 

How devoted are you to the Word of God and His truth? Are you one of those who easily give up in the face of challenges? Isaiah 41:10 says "So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand". 

No matter where you are, stay devoted to God. The blessings of God makes rich and adds no sorrow to it. Remain faithful to the course, you will definitely arrive at your destination. You can have all that God has promised you, all that is required of you is to remain faithful, devoted, steadfast and never give up.

Further Scripture Study: James‬ ‭1:12‬ ‭

Declare This: Thank You Father for I am encouraged in my spirit to remain faithful and devoted to Your words irrespective of the challenges I face in Jesus name Amen.

LOW PLACE

"Even though I walk through the [sunless] valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod [to protect] and Your staff [to guide], they comfort and console me". Psalms 23:4 AMP

I believe there has been times in your life when you felt down, unhappy and disappointed. The Prophet David in the scripture above attests to this fact. He said even though I walk through the valley.....The Valley here means a low point or place in ones life; that place where it seem so impossible and hopeless. But David made a strong point here, he said even if all hell break loose and the challenge seem hopeless, I will not fear because "You are with me". Such confidence he had to know that when he finds himself at that low place, God is always with him. 

Whenever you find yourself at that point in your life where it seem you are at the end of the rope, don't loose hope and feel its time to throw in the towel. Never see the valley or that low place as a disadvantage. It's actually a place of promotion. When you're at that low place in your life, God comes to meet you there. In other words, God joins you in your trouble and bring you out a victor. 

Further Scripture Study: Ephesians 6:10-18; Psalms 27:5; Hebrews 13:5

Declare This: Thank You precious Father for Your unconditionally love over me. Giving up is not an option right now but I stand strong in faith winning on every side in Jesus name Amen.

DRIVING FORCE

"For the love of Christ controls and compels us, because we have concluded this, that One died for all, therefore all died; and He died for all, so that all those who live would no longer live for themselves, but for Him who died and was raised for their sake". 2 Corinthians 5:14-15 AMP 

What compels you to do what you do? What compels you to want to live a successful life? What compels you to want to be rich or be successful? As a Christian, what can you do in order to have total Commitment to God? 

Our motivation to serve God should be motivated by the love that He has spread abroad in our hearts. Paul did not desire to know anything outside of Jesus and Him crucified (1 Corinthians 2:2), that was his motivation. He desired nothing else, his actions and desires were transparent to those around him. When people looked at Paul they could readily see that only Jesus mattered. There was no hidden agenda. There were no hidden programs, there were no hidden interests. Only Jesus, and Him crucified. He said necessity is laid upon me, woe is unto me if I preach not the gospel (1 Corinthians 9:16). 

It is your motivation level that will determine & fuel your effectiveness and productivity. Be compelled by the Love of God and stay inspired. Proper motivation will prevent burnout and laziness. 

Further Scripture Study: Ephesians 6:6-7 

Declare This: Dear Father, I am compelled to be consistent in my responsibilities and remain motivated to carryout Your concerns and motives from today on in Jesus name Amen.

SELF DISCIPLINE

"But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway." 1 Corinthians 4:27 KJV

An athlete under training is required to avoid excess in eating and drinking, and every form of fleshly indulgence. The Christian athlete must also practice a like temperance if he would run his course with success. Paul compares the Christian life to a foot race and to a boxing contest. 

In our text verse above; Paul says, "But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection.....The secret for self-discipline is looking past the difficulty of self-denial, and seeing the joy of winning the prize. Self-discipline is possible and even joyful when you are motivated by the hope of victory and reward.

Every new level requires direction and following the right direction gets you to your desired destination. Receiving the right instruction for the best direction requires training (Formal & Informal), and when you receive guidance; it brings out the best in you and for you. It also develops you and helps increase your capacity to handle leadership. It expands your responsibility, opens the doors of promotion and gives you opportunities in life. Be disciplined not to allow different stuff into your body because you are the temple of the Holy Ghost and Christ dwells in you.

Further Scripture Study: 1 Cor. 15:58 

Declare This: Dear Lord, I promise to keep my body for You and not allow the wrong stuff in me. I will stay consistent and ensure to obtain the incorruptible crown in Jesus name Amen.

BE DEVOTED

"Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching". 1 Timothy 4:13 NIV

Timothy was instructed by Paul to make sure that his Church was continually exposed to the Bible. He tells Timothy to spend time in reading, teaching, and exhorting others with the Word of God. As the pastor, his main task was to be the one who maintained a godly life for others to see and then show them the truth of God’s Word.

2 Timothy 2:15 says "Study and do your best to present yourself to God approved, a workman [tested by trial] who has no reason to be ashamed, accurately handling and skillfully teaching the word of truth. It's your responsibility to read and study for yourself; no one can read for you especially when you know that you have to study to show yourself approved on to God. The Bible conveys the basic truths that we need at all times and whatever clarification(s) you require, you'll definitely find it in God's Word. 

If you are going to grow spiritually in the things of God, you have to take the step. Being gifted and called does not preclude the need to Improve. Stay devoted in God, it's to your advantage.

Further Scripture Study: Hosea 4:6 

Declare This: Dear Lord, I will give time to reading and studying of Your Word. I recognize its my responsibility to study and show myself approved unto You in Jesus name Amen.

DON'T LIVE IGNORANTLY

“Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back and forth by the waves, and blown here and there by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and craftiness of people in their deceitful scheming.” Ephesians 4:14 NIV

When you study the chapter of the above verse diligently, you'll observe that this scripture is for the born again believer (the Christian) and not for those who are yet to have a relationship with the Father. This scripture admonishes Christians to attain a level of maturity (Christian growth), but unfortunately we find many who are yet to realize that level of maturity.

There are many reasons why some Christians are not growing; for some it's lack of faith in the Word of God, laziness, excuses and Ignorance for others. Some are tossed around by every wind of information they receive. Don’t be that kind of a Christian who only hears the Word when you feel like, this is good but it's not enough. You have to dig into the Word of God on a daily basis for "you", so as to receive the full amount of information you require for your life. You cannot live your life in the hands of a preacher or a Pastor, your life is in God's Hands. Don't live an ignorant Christian life. 

Further Scripture Study: Hebrews 5:14

Declare This: Thank You Father for Your Word today. I study to show myself approved; a mature Christian who is not tossed to and fro by every wind of doctrine, but one whose senses are trained to discern between good and evil in Jesus name Amen.

UNDERSTANDING HIS WILL

“See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise, Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.” Ephesians 5:15-17

‭Do you know the will of God for your life? It’s rather unfortunate when you meet Christians who haven’t come to understand what God’s will for their life is.‬‬‬ It’s very important to understand what the will of the Lord is because a man who doesn’t know is likened to a foolish man. Ephesians 5:17 “So then do not be foolish, but understand what the will of God is”.

Some will ask how do I know God's will for my life? The best answer is in the Word of God. Through prayers, commitment, dedication and most importantly with the help of the Holy Spirit, He will reveal His will to you. Be attentive enough to distinctively hear from Him. God's perfect will is for us all to be in His plan and purpose for our lives. Living outside of His will is to live a life without a purpose and significance. 

Further Scripture Study: Mathew 7:21; Galatians 1:4; Mathew 12:50 

Declare This: Heavenly Father, I thank You for the ability to understand Your will for my life. As I study Your Word it becomes clearer and clearer to me and makes me be who You want me to be in Jesus name Amen.

THE MARK OF A CHRISTIAN

A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another.” John 13:34-35 NIV

When Jesus announced that He would be leaving, He gave one very simple and profound instruction to “Love one another.” This is harder than it seems because we find ourselves prone to argument, dislike, hate, back-biting, cursing and fighting. Love is the mark for the Christian. Jesus asked His disciples to practice the love that He modeled. If they reflected the example of Jesus’ love, they would stand out in a world that does not understand love. Jesus explained, “By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another” (Vs 35).

The distinguishing mark of Love should influence the daily actions of Christians; how they work alongside co-workers, how they solve problems, how they speak to their spouses and children, how they work out problems with church members etc. The life of a Christian is different, because Jesus demonstrated this Love (God-Kind) everywhere He went and as a follower of Christ, the believer has to also demonstrate love consistently toward others and the world at large because "...As He is, so are we in this world" 1 John 4:17.

Love is not just a word, its an Action. You can't just say it, you have to display and exhibit it.

Further Scripture Study: Mark 12:31; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8 

Declare This: I am marked by love, it consumes every fiber of my being, and I demonstrate it constantly toward everyone in my sphere of contact from today in Jesus name Amen.

WALK IN LIGHT

"This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all. If we claim to have fellowship with him and yet walk in the darkness, we lie and do not live out the truth. But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus, his Son, purifies us from all sin. 1 John 1:5-7 NIV

God is Light and Light was the very first of God’s creation (Gen 1:3-5, 16). Light speaks of the purity of Christ and the holiness He possesses. Light is essential for life to exist. Just as Christ is the Living Word, He is also the Light of the World. The word light personifies God. Light originated from the mouth of God because He said, let there be. Your mouth is the origin for your own creation. What comes out of your mouth produces light or darkness.

To walk in the light is to walk with God; to walk according to God’s word. This walking must be constant and progressive; as we walk in the Light we become more like Christ and we have fellowship one with another. John reveals a gracious benefit of walking in the Light. As we walk with Jesus, in His light, we enjoy communion with Him. His light reveals areas in our lives that need attention. While living in darkness we may not have noticed, but now in the light they are abundantly clear. 

Walking in the light is a daily consciousness. We must continually have fellowship with Jesus in the light in order to fill up our spiritual tanks. By doing this, we will be guided by the Holy Spirit rather than our own thoughts and feelings which in their default setting is probably sinful. Walking in the light is not a once in a while thing. Walking in the light is not a Sunday or Wednesday-only thing. Walking in the light is a daily way of life and it's a daily choice.

Further Scripture Study: Psalms 119:105

Declare This: Dear Father, I am conscious of my walk with You daily. I will continue to walk in Your Word and as I do, my path keeps shining brighter and brighter unto the perfect day in Jesus name Amen.

DEPEND SOLELY ON GOD

“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much". Luke 16:10 NIV

We’ve all been blessed with gifts and talents. We know that our gifts are different, and we know that our gifts are to be used to glorify God and edify His people. Are you dependable in serving our Lord? Can God count on you to be faithful in your desire to serve? Can you be trusted in doing the work He has asked you to do? If you are dependable, you can be used by God at any given moment, in any place, at any time, according to His purpose. 

The Lord Jesus displayed what it means to be dependable, He said "Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends" (John 15:13). You can trust and depend solely on Him just as He depended solely on God. 

A special ability from God is given to the one who depends totally on Him because our dependability is directly related to our dependence on God’s ability. Are you really living like Christ? Are you dependable? Dependability is a must for the Christian in all areas of life. Remain steadfast and unmovable, the Lord is counting on you.

Further Scripture Study: 1 Corinthians 15:58 

Declare This: Dear Father, my trust is in You and You alone. I've made up my mind to always depend and steadfastly remain loyal to You in Jesus name Amen.

IT'S UP TO YOU

I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live. Deuteronomy 30:19

One beautiful thing about God is that he does not impose His Will on us, He gives us the ability to choose, even though He’ll advice you to make the right choice still He won’t impose that choice on you. You have the choice to either choose to win or lose, live or choose to die etc. 

Joseph chose to win. The Lord gave him favor round about (Genesis 30:20-21). Choosing to win does not mean you're not going to face challenges or difficulties, it only means when this issues come up; your mentality to win will help change it into your testimony. 

God has given us the free will to make a choice to live a life free from sin, He has given us a choice to chose to live a victorious life free from lack, sickness, sadness, anger, malice, bitterness and poverty, but it’s still our choice to choose, so make up your mind to always choose rightly.

Further Scripture Study: 1 Kings 18:21 

Declare This: Thank You Father for the ability to choose rightly. I declare that i am Your representative and my life is a reflection of Your goodness and glory in Jesus name Amen.

MY BEST CHILD

"Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings". Psalm 17:8

What does it mean to be the Best? It means of the highest quality, excellence, to be particularly favored, esteemed, and preferred. It means to enjoy special attention, personal affection, and preferential treatment, even without being deserving of it. There is nothing about you or me or anyone else that can cause us to become God's Best. He chose us for that place of honor and esteem by an act of His sovereign grace. All we can do is receive His gracious gift with an attitude of thanksgiving and humility.

God says "You are the apple of My eye; you are My Best child." It doesn't matter the position or state you're in right now, you have to come to that consciousness that you are the Best because in God's eyes you are. God assures each of us that we are His Best, because He wants us to be secure in who we are in Christ Jesus so that we will have the confidence and assurance we need to walk victoriously through this life, drawing others to share with us in His marvelous grace. Tell yourself...I am the apple of your eye because You made me the best. 

Further Scripture Study: Psalms 139:14; 1 Peter 2:9 

Declare This: I am wonderfully and fearfully made of God. He has made me His Best, I have no choice...I am the Best in Jesus name Amen.

IF

“IF we confess our sins he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. 1 John 1:9 KJV

One of the biggest words in the human language is the two little letter word, “IF”. If can be a big word to anyone with a need, especially when we hear, “I’d help you if”? If only - if only God - if only l - what if? The doctor tells you that your recovery depends upon an if; I'll stand by you if; What if it does work? What if something happens? What if I fail or loose? Will it work if we fast and pray? What if it had not been for the Lord on our side? God; if only you'll do this or that for me..I will serve You all my life.

The word "if" is always surrounded by a question mark. It has its possible side and also the negative side. It can be destructive and also constructive, it can be healthy and also unhealthy. It is a conditional word, it gives a condition that must be fulfilled before a result is seen. Man holds on to the negative IF more. The dictionary defines “if” as the cause or reason or motive for something to happen. “If”, is the word that evokes a response for action.

There are some big ‘ifs’ in the Bible, over 1500 of them. One of the biggest IF in the whole Bible is found in 2 Chronicles 7:14. God says, “IF ye will....then I will.” My Glory will come when people humble themselves and pray. Today, I want you to look at IF from an entirely new perspective. Let’s take our IFS and put them into the realm of what God can do in us, for us and to us. 

Further Scripture Study: 1 John 1:7; 1 Sam 1:11; Matt 9:21; John 11:20-21; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Col 3:1

Declare This: Dear Lord, I will use my "ifs" in an healthy and constructive way for my life and to the Glory of Your name in Jesus name Amen.

ACCEPT IT

"And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work." 2 Corinthians 9:8 ESV

One unique thing about life is that Life is all about challenges. If you are not challenged, it will be difficult to be promoted to the next level because challenges are the stepping stones to every promotion. The man who faces his challenges will always win and move up to greater levels of victory and favors.

David was a man with the attitude of a winner. He had a different mentality when he faced Goliath. He faced the challenge in front of him not by his power or might, but by the Power of the Lord of Hosts - The God of the armies of Israel. You can read the whole account in 1 Samuel 17, David faced Goliath one on one and victory was his. As a child of God, the challenges you face are not supposed to discourage or destroy you, they are your boost to elevate you.

Never face any challenge on your own without the help of the Holy Spirit. If David had gone by his power, Goliath would have crushed and squeezed him up in a twinkle of an eye; but He went by the Power of the Holy Spirit. 1 Corinthians 10:13 (NIV) says "No temptation has overtaken you except what is common to mankind. And God is faithful; he will not let you be tempted beyond what you can bear. But when you are tempted,he will also provide a way out so that you can endure it.". What this verse is saying is that God will not allow any challenge that is bigger or over you come your way. Any challenge you face right now in your life is because you are able to handle it and come out victoriously. He will always provide the way out for you.

Further Scripture Study: James 1:2 

Declare This: I welcome challenges because they are sign posts to my promotion. I have the ability to overcome any situation or circumstance that come my way in Jesus name Amen.

EXCUSE MENTALITY

"........But they all alike began to make excuses........." Luke 14:12-24 AMP

Jesus gave a parable of a man organizing a big banquet and after all the preparations, he sent his servant to go tell all his guests that dinner is served. One by one they all began to make excuses why they're not able to make the dinner. Kindly read more of the account in the chapter scripture above. When a man makes excuses, he will be held back and stopped from achieving true success. Too many people short change themselves of God's Blessings because of excuses.

Never give an excuse for the things that concerns the kingdom of God. Excuses are for failures and the one with excuses is limited. Moses gave different excuses to convince God that he was not the best candidate for the job (Exodus 4:10-14). When God gives you an instruction, don't give Him excuses, because He wouldn't object. He'll let you keep your excuses, but you'll remain limited by them. Successful people don't give excuses, make up your mind to be free of excuses and refuse the excuse-mentality. 

Further Scripture Study: Exodus 4:1-16 

Declare This: Heavenly Father, i refuse to make excuses for things that concerns Your Word and the work in church. I will always yield myself to instructions in Jesus name Amen.

GOD IS YOUR DIRECTION

"This is what the Lord, your Redeemer, the Holy One of Israel says, I am the Lord your God, who teaches you to profit (benefit), Who leads you in the way that you should go." Isaiah 48:17 AMP

Whenever God gets you involved in what He is doing, you are the better for it. You are the one who gets Blessed. No one can honestly do anything for The Lord and be disadvantaged or disappointed. This is why, when God starts speaking, you better start listening. Life is all about decision making. Every part of life is filled with having to make decisions, some are small and some are huge. All of them make a definite impact upon our present and our future as well as impacting our family, friends, fellow-workers, brethren at church, people at school, and on it goes. The key is to make the right decision, because the Decision Maker knows it all.

The text verse explains why we should listen to God. The Word of God is filled with the most precious promises. Notice that God is the speaker here, it's not just anyone eliciting your attention and response. It is your Redeemer who will not simply leave you a victim of circumstances or your own bad decisions. He is the One, the only Being worthy of the title "The Holy One." The One with whom you have entered into a covenant relationship. God in His word teaches us so many things, He is the One who teaches you to be profitable, meaning if you obey His teachings; they will bring increase to your life. The profit or return from those who follow His teachings lasts far longer and are more valuable than the silver or gold so many seek.

He is our direction and the Way we should go always and at all times. He is the Best Leader, who knows the end from the beginning. He knows your very end, no other gods knows your end better than the One who is The Beginning and The End. Let Him lead you.

Further Scripture Study: John 14:6

Declare This: Dear Father, You are the Way, the Truth and the Life. I will not go in the direction You did not destine me to follow, I will only follow Your way and plans for my life in Jesus name Amen.

THE MASTER'S MISSION

"But as for you, be clear-headed in every situation [stay calm and cool and steady], endure every hardship [without flinching], do the work of an evangelist, fulfill [the duties of] your ministry." 2 Timothy 4:5 AMP

Paul told Timothy to apply the Word of God & to do the job God had for him to do. Now what happens when we apply God's Word? What happens When we do the work of an evangelist? When we really do discharge all the duties of our ministry? When the church really becomes what God wants the church to be. What happens? The result will be seen in changed & transformed lives.

My greatest concern is that we’re not doing up to expectation, looking at what's going on in our society and world in general. Children are growing up ignorant of the Word of God and adults are looking for other alternatives. This isn't the time to be quiet, the gospel is the only saving power in the world today; it’s the answer and solution the world needs. Our Lord Jesus has committed the gospel to our trust and many will never hear it except through you. This is the reason you have to go around your world preaching the Gospel. It's not just a religious act, its a mandate. Let’s apply His Word to our lives and make sure that His Will is made known.

If we just sit down & lean back, indulging ourselves in all our comforts and conveniences, and fail to teach our children the lessons of morality & integrity from the Word of God, the enemy won’t have to fire a shot to win. Let’s make sure that we apply the Word of God. Let’s make sure that our children are learning from the lessons of the Bible and that they also come to know God and love His Word. He is counting on us to do the work of an evangelist.

Further Scripture Study: Matthew 28:19-20 

Declare This: Dear Father, I will not sit back and do nothing. I will ensure I do the work of an evangelist and win my world for You in Jesus name Amen.

WHO DO I PLEASE

"Am I now trying to win the approval of human beings, or of God? Or am I trying to please people? If I were still trying to please people, I would not be a servant of Christ." Galatians 1:10 NIV

An old fable that has been passed down for generations tells about an elderly man who was traveling with a boy and a donkey. As they walked through a village, the man was leading the donkey and the boy was walking behind. The townspeople said the old man was a fool for not riding, so to please them he climbed up on the animal’s back. When they came to the next village, the people said the old man was cruel to let the child walk while he enjoyed the ride. So, to please them, he got off and set the boy on the animal’s back and continued on his way. In the third village, people accused the child of being lazy for making the old man walk, and the suggestion was made that they both ride. So the man climbed on and they set off again. In the fourth village, the townspeople were indignant at the cruelty to the donkey because he was made to carry two people. The frustrated man was last seen carrying the donkey down the road.

We smile, but this story makes a good point: We can’t please everybody, and if we try we end up carrying a heavy burden. Well-meaning Christians may offer us advice, and much of it is valuable. But when we try to do everything other believers want us to do, we can easily become frustrated and confused . That’s why we need to remember that the One we must please above all others is Christ. And we do that by obeying God’s Word. Have you carried any donkeys lately? You don’t have to if you’re trying to please Jesus Christ.

There are consequences when trying to please everyone; You have to learn to say No! Jesus warned us against living for the approval of the crowd. He demonstrated the importance of this principle in His own life. God can't please everybody because not everyone is pleased at Him. Only a fool would try to do what even God can't do.

Further Scripture Study: 1 Thessalonians 2:4

Declare This: Precious Heavenly Father, thank You for opening my eyes to see the way You want me to see. My priority is to please You and all You've commanded and instructed in Jesus name Amen.

GOD IS GOOD

"Truly God is good to Israel, to those who are pure in heart." Psalms 73:1 AMP

When you study the account of creation you'll notice that after God created everything from the 1st to the 5th day, He looked at what He had made and saw that it was "Good" (Genesis 1:4-25). But on the 6th day, after He made man, the Bible says, "God saw everything that He had made and behold it was "Very Good" (Genesis 1:31). Man is the completeness of God's work. God is a Good God and not bad; the reason He is Good is because His very Nature is Good; and since we know that He is good, It therefore means that His Children (we) are also good. We are the Exactness and Epitome of His Elegance. Has Good been good to you?

When God made you and I, He made us "very good", our true nature is good because "As He is so are we in this world" (1 John 4:17). You may be at a place you don't want to be, but things can still change in your favor. God's nature is Good, everything that He does is good and because He is good, He gives us everything good to win throughout the year. Hold your ground, you are a partaker of God's goodness, His goodness will see you through and I encourage you to display it everywhere no matter what the story is.

Further Scripture Study: Matthew 5:48 

Declare This: Father, thank You for giving me the ability to carry Your Goodness. I see everything good, goodness is my nature and I am a dispenser of His Presence in Jesus name Amen.

HIS FIRST CLASS

"Keep me as the apple of your eye; hide me in the shadow of your wings". Psalm 17:8

What does it mean to be the Best? It means of the highest quality, excellence, to be particularly favored, esteemed, and preferred. It means to enjoy special attention, personal affection, and preferential treatment, even without being deserving of it. There is nothing about you or me or anyone else that can cause us to become God's Best. He chose us for that place of honor and esteem by an act of His sovereign grace. All we can do is receive His gracious gift with an attitude of thanksgiving and humility.

Now when I talk about being the Best of God, I must make something clear. Because God is God of all His creation, and because He has a personal relationship with each one of His children, He can say to every single one of us at the same time, and sincerely mean it, "You are the apple of My eye; you are My Best child." I received this truth many years back when God proved to me in the presence of others that I am truly the Best.

It doesn't matter the position or state you're in right now, you have to come to that consciousness that you are the Best because in God's eyes you are. God assures each of us that we are His Best, His First-Class, because He wants us to be secure in who we are in Christ Jesus so that we will have the confidence and assurance we need to walk victoriously through this life, drawing others to share with us in His marvelous grace.

Further Scripture Study: Psalms 139:14; 1 Peter 2:9 

Declare This: I am wonderfully and fearfully made of God. He has made me His Best, I have no choice...I am the Best in Jesus name Amen.

GOD'S GUIDANCE

That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him: Ephesians 1:17 KJV

Would you like to receive some guidance from the Holy Spirit to help you make important decisions in your life today? If yes, Paul’s prayer to the Ephesian church in the verse above is an important scripture for you to apply to your own life. 

Having Wisdom & Revelation are two very important virtues that can help you make the right choices and decisions. The word “wisdom” in this verse is from the Greek word "sophias"; this is not natural human wisdom - this is special insight from God. The word “revelation” is from the word "apokalupsis". It refers to something that has been veiled or hidden for a long time and then suddenly, becomes clear and visible to the mind or eye. 

Can you remember times in your past when you suddenly saw something in the Bible you had never seen before? That truth had been there all along, but it had been hidden to your eyes. Then suddenly one day, it was as if someone pulled the covers off that verse, and it literally jumped off the pages in front of you. You saw it! You understood it! You had a revelation! It is a fact that truths remain hidden until God chooses to reveal them to us.

If you need direction and guidance today, stop right now and pray Paul’s prayer in Ephesians 1:17 for your own life. Ask God to give you “a spirit of wisdom and revelation.” God has all the answers you need, and they’re not as far from you as you may think. In one moment, He can remove the veil of ignorance and help you see clearly the things you need to understand. All you have to do is ASK!

Further Scripture Study: Matthew 7:7 

Declare This: Lord, I ask You to give me the insight and wisdom I need for this moment in my life. I ask You to give me a revelation about my life and the truth I need to know now and always in Jesus name Amen.

PAY ATTENTION

"My son, pay attention to what I say; turn your ear to my words." Proverbs 4:20 KJV

When we look at the Scriptures, what did God want from His Children? Really, what was His yearning desire for Israel? From the Beginning of man’s dealing with God we find that God is looking for man’s attention. Even after the fall of Adam and Eve, we see that God came walking through the garden in the cool of the day calling after His Own creation. God was looking for a relationship through which He could bless the entire creation and all Nations too. 

When I pioneered and started a church, everyday I went out on evangelism inviting people to church as one of the strategy for church growth. I received so many promises from them, some would say "I promise to be there this Sunday; others would say I'll come with my family, some same in 2 weeks and many more. With so much hope waiting for Sunday, when that day finally comes, all the promises I got were unfulfilled. This continued for some months until God spoke to me; He said "I am the God of all Harvest, I am the Strategy you need, pay attention to Me and you will see the harvest you desire". I did as He instructed and He did as He promised.

God’s Word is eternal, never underestimate what He can do for you. A lot of times we want God to pay attention to our needs, wants and desires, but we forget to realize that we need to pay attention to Him because He is bigger that anything we desire and He is able to do exceeding abundantly more than we can ask or think. Walk with Him, He will make your life a celebration of His Goodness and His Mercy. 

Further Scripture Study: Psalm 50:15 

Declare This: Dear Lord, I choose to follow after You all the days of my life. In You I have everything that I ever need and want in order to win my world always in Jesus name Amen.

THE KEY THAT UNLOCKS

“Love is patient, Love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.” ‭‭1 Corinthians ‭13:4-7 NIV

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There is no way you can go through a locked door without having the right key to unlock it. Living a victorious life without having love is absolutely impossible. As Christians, Love is the very core of our Christian Faith and this differentiates us from others. It is that very key that unlocks every door for a Christian. When you have this Love key there’s no limit to where you can get to or what you can achieve. There is absolutely no door too difficult that you cannot open.

I’ve heard several people say its when you know someone who is influential, with that you may be able to achieve certain favor. This is absolutely false because there are several testimonies of people finding favor in places where they never thought they could find. A beautiful example is a brother in church who went for an interview in a company where he knew no one, he testified that when he got there he was treated so special and before the interview was over, the person conducting the interview was already referring to him as one of the company's employee. Only the love key could have opened that door.

Be determined to use that Love key everywhere you go and see how God will make a way for you in ways you can only imagine.

Further Scripture Study: Luke 6:35 

Declare This: Thank You Father for I possess the only key that can help me throughout my life. I'll hold on to love always in Jesus name Amen.

SEEK HIM

“You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart. I will be found by you.” Jeremiah 29:13 NIV

God is not only around for Sunday morning service between 10am and 12pm or mid-week service between 7pm and 9pm. Nor are His ears more attentive toward our prayers on those hours. Nor does He stop what He is doing to take care of creation for two hours a week for us to do our religious thing. The Bible says, “the eyes of the Lord are ranging to and fro the earth to strengthen those whose hearts are fully committed to Him.” (2 Chronicles 16:9). 

God is not restricted to any time zone, He is not a Central Standard Time, Eastern Standard Time, Mountain Time, or Pacific Standard Time God; a colossal NO! Our God is a Timeless God. He is the ancient of Days, the Beginning and the End, the First and the Last. So when you think that God is to be sought on a Sunday morning service or mid-week service, you aren’t even close to understanding who He is and what it really means.

To seek God is a daily relationship with Him. He wants us to seek Him with all of our heart and not with some. So many give the world 90% of their time and only 10% in their relationship with God. They are distracted with the cares of life (job, family business etc) and only need God occasionally. He said in our opening text verse that when we seek Him with all of our heart, we will find Him. This is the day to call upon God, not tomorrow but today. Don’t worry about the past, the Bible says, “Today, if you hear His voice,” (Hebrews 3:7).

Further Scripture Study: Psalms 50:15; Psalm 116:1

Declare This: Dear Lord, I choose to follow after You all the days of my life. In You I have everything that I ever need and want in order to win my world always in Jesus name Amen.