Higher Everyday
SATURDAY, 10 JUNE, 2017

BE THANKFUL
TEXT: 1 THESSALONIANS 5:18

"In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you" (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

"How sharper than a serpent's tooth it is to have a thankless child!" This sad comment was credited to King Lear. He had given all he had to his two daughters, Goneril and Reagan, but they ended up being unthankful and wicked to him. They drove him almost to a state of madness. In like manner, God provided all things richly for the enjoyment of humanity. Above all, He also gave us His only begotten Son to save humanity from sin and Satan. However, many people deny Him a place in their lives and homes. These are sinners and God is angry with them continually. They must repent before it is too late.

If you are a Christian, you must live to give God praise. Use every situation to give thanks to God. Even if you have some challenges now, know that every cloud has a silver lining and that it is always darkest before dawn. Beloved, you can turn your prison to praise and jet out of it. Always have a reason to praise the Lord.

• Challenge: "Always find a reason for thanksgiving"

• Prayer: "Thank you Jesus for saving me"

• Quote: "Live to give God praise"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Psalm 103:1-5

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Higher Everyday
SUNDAY: 11 JUNE, 2017

WITNESS TO CHRIST
TEXT: JOHN 15:27

"And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning" (John 15:27).

James Baldwin (1924 - 1987), U.S. writer and civil-rights activist, once said "I am a witness. In the church in which I was raised you were supposed to be a witness to the truth." The same goes for every professing child of God; to bear witness to Christ anywhere you find yourself: in the school, during vacation and among your peers. The story of the Israelite little maid who was bought into Naaman's home after being taken captive in war by the Syrian army is a good example for all Christian youths. Her witness resulted in the healing of Naaman's leprosy by the God of Israel, and Naaman, as a result made a personal commitment to serve the God of Israel.

You must be a witness to Christ in conversation and comportment and be Christ's representative everywhere. "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us..." (2 Corinthians 5:20). It was the lifestyle of the early believers that made them get the appellation, "Christian" that finally became a tag for all followers of Christ.

• Challenge: "Let your life witness to Christ as the only Saviour"

• Prayer: "Oh God, help me to be a true witness of Christ"

• Quote: "Be Christ's representative everywhere"

• Bible Reading in one Year: John 15:18-27

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Higher Everyday
MONDAY, JUNE 12, 2017

DANGER OF ANGER
TEXT: PROVERBS 29:22

"An angry man stirreth up strife, and a furious man aboundeth in transgression" (Proverbs 29:22).

Considering the anger of anger, Tryon Edwards said, "To rule ones anger is well, to prevent it is even better." A Christian should be consciously aware of those things that can provoke one to anger, and by the grace of God take precaution to avoid being trapped by them. Anger results from intentional or unintentional provocation, misunderstanding, wickedness, denial of rights, false accusation, and oppression.

Anger affects health negatively and also leads to other regrettable consequences. A typical biblical example is the account of Simeon and Levi.
The duo were cursed by Jacob their father at his death due to their fierce anger (Genesis 49:7) and thus, Simeon later became the smallest tribe in Israel and was not given a separate portion of land, but partook of that of Judah (Joshua 19:1), while Levi had no inheritance in Israel but was given scattered cities (Joshua 13:33). The scripture's counsel is, "Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil" (Psalms 37:8 ). Be saved and sanctified to overcome anger.

• Challenge: "Cease from anger and never be a source of same to others"

• Prayer: "Lord, sanctify my heart to be able to live above sin"

• Quote: "Be saved and sanctified to overcome anger"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Genesis 49:1-7

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Higher Everyday
TUESDAY, JUNE 13, 2017

STEER CLEAR OF HER
TEXT: PROVERBS 5:3, 4

"For the lips of a strange woman drop as an honeycomb, and her mouth is smoother than oil: But her end is bitter as wormwood, sharp as a two-edged sword" (Proverbs 5:3, 4).

"We are living in the most sex-crazed age in the history of the entire world," said Billy Graham. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are estimated 40-50 million abortions globally, every year, and this corresponds to approximately 125,000 abortions per day. The present world has surpassed the level of moral degradation of biblical Sodom and Gomorrah that ended with a rain of fire from God. God's word says, "Flee fornication. Every sin that a man doeth is without the body; but he that committeth fornication sinneth against his own body" (1 Corinthians 6:18).

As a young person, you must steer clear of any girl or boy that will lure you into the sin of immorality. Joseph in Bible days did not fall for Potiphar's wife. Unfortunately, the inability of Samson to steer clear of Delilah, and Dinah's failure to steer clear of Chechem, led to terrible consequences. God's counsel is, "Go from the presence of a foolish man, when thou perceivest not in him the lips of knowledge" (Proverbs 14:7-8.). Genuine repentance delivers from immorality and its consequences.

• Challenge: "Flee fornication"

• Prayer: "Lord, deliver from all temptations in the secret and in the open"

• Quote: "Genuine repentance delivers from immorally"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Proverbs 7:21-27

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Higher Everyday
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 14, 2017

KNOW YOUR CAREER
TEXT: GENESIS 2:15

"And the LORD God took the man, and put him into the garden of Eden to dress it and to keep it" (Genesis 2:15).

According to Viktor Franklin "Everyone has his own specific vocation or mission in life. Everyone must carry out a concrete assignment that demands fulfillment. Therein he cannot be replaced, nor can his life be repeated. Thus everyone's task is unique, as his specific opportunity to implement it." Success in career begins with making the right choice. The word career entails a vocation, a line of business, a profession, or job out of which one makes a living. A career is expected to assist an individual to realize his goal in life and have satisfaction.

There are times when we have to take decisions that would, in the long run, determine our future. Adam, in our text, was given his career by God. As God's child, you need to pray for God's guidance on career choice. If you are a sinner, you can repent and become God's favourite for guidance. Moreover, you have a God-given potential to become successful. Your potential is your skill, talent, your natural ability or inclination- something that you readily cope with. Discover your potential, develop and demonstrate it and success is yours.

• Challenge: "Discover your potential"

• Prayer: "Father, help me to discover and develop my potential"

• Quote: "Pray for God's guidance on career choice"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Matthew 4:18, 19

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Higher Everyday
THURSDAY, JUNE 15, 2017

JEHOVAH SAVES
TEXT: PSALMS 138:7

"Though I walk in the midst of trouble, thou wilt revive me: thou shalt stretch forth thine hand against the wrath of mine enemies, and thy right hand shall save me" (Psalms 138:7).

William tailor posited that, "It is thus through our trials and afflictions that God gives us fresh revelations of Himself; and the Jabbok ford leads to Peniel, where, as the result of our wrestling, we see God face to face, and our lives are preserved." This life is full of battles, both within and without. We fight against all kinds of enemies such as self, sin, sickness, and Satan that war against our souls. No matter the kind of battle we are engaged in, it cannot last forever. It will definitely be a passage to promotion.

Know that you will always win in the battle of life because Jehovah God is your strength. Who saved Israel at the Red Sea? Who saved young David from the war veteran, Goliath? Who saved Daniel in the lions' den? It was Jehovah! There is no situation you cannot overcome, including those subjects that prove too hard for you at school. Trust in the Lord Jehovah and work hard. Your problems will be over.

• Challenge: "He saves from sin and troubles"

• Prayer: "Thank you, Jesus, for saving me"

• Quote: "Jehovah God is your strength"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Psalms 68:19

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Higher Everyday
FRIDAY, JUNE 16, 2017

MUTUAL CONCERN
TEXT: HEBREWS 13:3

"Remember them that are in bonds, as bound with them; and them which suffer adversity, as being yourselves also in the body" (Hebrews 13:3).

Queen Victoria was a close friend of Principal and Mrs. Tullock, of St. Andrews. Prince Albert died and Victoria was left alone. Just at the same time, Principal Tullock died and Mrs. Tullock was left alone. Quite unexpectedly, Queen Victoria called on Mrs. Tullock when she was resting on a couch in her room. The Queen stepped forward. "My dear," she said, "don't rise. I am not coming to you today as a queen to a subject, but as one woman to another who has lost her husband." She put herself in her friend's place. That is what God did for us.

The Lord expects believers to show mutual concern for one another in sickness, imprisonment, false accusation, failure in examination, persecution, bereavement, etc. When Martha and Mary lost their brother Lazarus, Jesus literally wept to identify with their sorrow. There is a common saying that 'what goes around comes around.' If you fail to show concern for other youths at their moment of adversity, how would you expect others to show concern at your own time of adversity?

• Challenge: "If you want to lift yourself up, lift up someone else"

• Prayer: "Oh Lord, help me to help others in adversity today"

• Quote: "What goes around comes around"

• Bible Reading in one Year: John 11:33-36

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Higher Everyday
SATURDAY, JUNE 17, 2017

THE ATHEIST HAS NO HOPE
TEXT: PSALM 14:1

"The fool hath said in his heart, There is no God. They are corrupt, they have done abominable works, there is none that doeth good" (Psalm 14:1).

An atheist does not believe in the existence God or any deity. It does not however require a scientist to confirm that the complex nature of the universe: the biotic world, the formation of rocks, the solar system and many other things in nature that baffle man, has an intelligent being behind its origin. As a student, consider your body make-up and how it functions: your breathing, food digestion, blood circulation and body movement. Only a fool can say that they all happened by accident and from an atom. Indeed there is a God who created all things and is still in control of His world. Though He is a Spirit and cannot be found by using human senses, He has revealed Himself to people in many ways at different times. He made man to enjoy His creation and to worship and glorify Him.

The atheist wants to enjoy God's works without glorifying Him. He denies life after death because he fears facing God's final judgment. "The atheist has no hope," said J. F. Clarke. He must turn to Christ for salvation.

• Challenge: "Any stupid person can deny the existence of God"

• Prayer: "Oh God, bring salvation to all atheists, in Jesus' name"

• Quote: "He must turn to God for salvation"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Hebrews 9:27, 28

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Higher Everyday
SUNDAY, JUNE 18, 2017

WARN THEM, WIN THEM
TEXT: EZEKIEL 33:9

"Nevertheless, if thou warn the wicked of his way to turn from it: if he do not turn from his way, he shall die in his iniquity" (Ezekiel 33:9).

It is dangerous going the wrong way in life or ignorantly driving speedily towards a deep gully. However, a timely warning can prevent eternal regrets. This story may sound familiar to you. A young man discovered that the bridge on a lonely road had just collapsed and the weather was dark. Knowing the danger it posed to motorists, he tried to prevent any mishap. He went some distance before the collapsed bridge to flag down motorists. Not quite long, he saw an oncoming vehicle; with all his might, he waved a piece of cloth with frenzy in front of him, shouting: "Danger! Stop!" The unsuspecting motorist almost ignored the warning, taking the boy possibly for a free ride seeker, but eventually screeched to a halt only to discover how narrowly he had escaped death.

Multitudes of people, including youths, are lost in sin heading for hell. They hear the warning in the church, on the television, and elsewhere, but would not give heed. However, believers must keep warning till the Master comes. We must by all means save some.

• Challenge: "Brighten the corner where you are"

• Prayer: "Dear Lord, help me to warn sinners of the danger of hell"

• Quote: "Keep warning till the Master comes"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Proverbs 29:1; Ezekiel 1-9

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Higher Everyday
MONDAY, JUNE 19, 2017

OBEYING LIKE JESUS
TEXT: HEBREW 5:8

"Though He were a Son, yet learned He obedience by the things which He suffered" (Hebrew 5:8 ).

We are in an information technology - driven age; many youths are easily distracted from the right path by what they see and hear around them. They disobey God through sinful choices. That was the problem of our first mother, Eve. According to Elmer G. Klasson, "There was happiness in the Garden of Eden until wrong choices in obedience were made. Fear and insecurity came into the world when Eve listened and saw what most women today see on television, was deceived, by Satan, made a wrong choice in obedience and brought upon her and all women the curse of pain in childbearing." Would the world not be a better place if mankind were to obey God?

We must learn to obey God like Jesus. He put His interest, desire and will under His Father's will. His desire was just to do the Father's will. As you read this devotional today, if you are not yet born again, do so now so that you too can have the mind of Christ and obey like Him.

• Challenge: "To walk with God, obedience is required"

• Prayer: "Oh God, I need grace to obey like Jesus"

• Quote: "Have the mind of Christ and obey like Him"

• Bible Reading in one Year: 1 Samuel 15:13-23

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Higher Everyday
TUESDAY, JUNE 20, 2017

GOSPEL SHARING AT SCHOOL
TEXT: MARK 16:15

"And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature" (Mark 16:15).

Our Lord Jesus Christ wants the gospel to get to everybody, no matter who they are and where they are. Youths have reached the age of accountability and so must be reached with the gospel in our communities and schools before it is too late. Sinners are like dying patients that need medical care, and the doctor cannot afford to deny them treatment. "Not to preach the gospel means that we hide the medicine from the patient," said Evangelist Reinhard Bonnke. We cannot keep the gospel from the youths simply because they are in school, whether day or boarding. They need the message of Christ as urgently as the adults because the rapture can take place at any time, just as death can occur to anyone suddenly anywhere.

Youths at school can be reached through personal evangelism, friendship evangelism, literature evangelism (use of tracts, Youth Life magazine, and the Higher Everyday devotional), as well as the internet and the global system of mobile communication (GSM). Somebody needs your love; tell him or her about Christ.

• Challenge: "You may regret not preaching to your sinner school mates"

• Prayer: "Lord, let neither fear nor shame hinder me from preaching"

• Quote: "We cannot keep the gospel from the youths"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Mark 16:15-20; Mathew 9:35-38

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Higher Everyday
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 21, 2017

GRABBING TRAP GIFTS
TEXT: PSALM 124:7

"Our soul is escaped as a bird out of the snare of the fowlers: the snare is broken, and we are escaped" (Psalm 124:7).

A trap is a devise made to catch an animal. A food item which the animal likes is usually attached to some traps to lure the animal to it. However, for human beings, a trap can be in the form of a gift which if accepted can unknowingly commit the receiver to doing something he might not want to do. When King Saul found it difficult to kill David, he gave him his daughter, Michal as a gift-wife. But it was a trap to lead to David's death (1 Sam 18:20-28).

Many youths are offered gifts to lure them into sinful relationships. It might just be a money gift, or providing snacks, or an offer to help with a difficult school subject. Do not grab any trap gift as a God-sent. Many youths have accepted such gifts to their eternal regrets. Do not be lured into sin with money or material things that will perish, or a deceptive secret offer of marriage. Beware! Escape from all traps. If you are a sinner, repent today and receive grace to escape from trap-gifts.

• Challenge: "No gift is as precious as God's Gift of His son"

• Prayer: "Help me, oh God to escape from every trap in Jesus name"

• Quote: "Beware! Escape from all traps"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Judges 4:17-21

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Higher Everyday
THURSDAY, JUNE 22, 2017

PATIENCE PAYS
TEXT: HEBREWS 10:36

"For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise" (Hebrews 10: 36).

Patience is an attribute that every child of God who wants to make heaven must have. Without patience you cannot wait to receive answers to prayers, you cannot walk and serve with fellow believers and you could even have a hard time in your studies and relationship with people. Darrel Lee stated that, "We don't go far in our Christian experience before trials come and we find that we must sometimes wait upon God for his answers. Waiting certainly requires patience, and this is God's way of helping develop that attribute."

From childhood, Samuel patiently learnt under the priest Eli, to hear the voice of God and to serve in God's house. Elisha also patiently served Elijah and when Elijah was to be taken to heaven, he followed steadfastly from Gilgal to Bethel and finally to Jordan where he got the double portion of Elijah's anointing. A classic case of patience is that of Job under affliction (James 5:11). We can see from all this that patience pays. God will bless the patient in spirit.

• Challenge: "You will be better than your teachers if you learn patiently"

• Prayer: "Oh God, give me the grace to be patient"

• Quote: "God will bless the patient in spirit"

• Bible Reading in one Year: James 5:7-11

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Higher Everyday
FRIDAY, JUNE 23, 2017

FUTURE WORKERS
TEXT: 2 TIMOTHY 2:15

"Study to show thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15).

The future workers are the young people of today who are preparing to take over the role of today's workers. The well trained and experienced workers of today will leave the scene at some time in the future and the children and youths in our schools and churches will have to step into their shoes. The children and youths have no choice than to take over as no one can live well without working. John F. Kennedy said; "Children are the living messages we send to a time we will not see." Through education and training the children can be effectively sent as "living messages" to the future.

As a Christian youth are you making the best use of your time and opportunities to prepare to join the future workforce? The church needs your service in areas such as pastoring, choir, ushering, youth leadership and children work. To work for God, you must not only be saved, but also be consecrated, sanctified and baptized with the Holy Ghost. Moreover, you must read, train, pray and be ready for tomorrow.

• Challenge: "Give of your best to the Master"

• Prayer: "Lord, empower me to work for you"

• Quote: "The church needs your service"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Daniel 1:3-8, 17-21

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Higher Everyday
SATURDAY, JUNE 24, 2017

LOSING TO GAIN
TEXT: MARK 8:35

"For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's the same shall save it" (Mark 8:35).

A young Christian man had just got his first degree in electrical and electronic engineering in Nigeria and was planning to go abroad for a Master's degree programme. However, God's call came to him to become a zonal travelling secretary of a para-church organisation. He resisted it and did everything to travel out to fulfill his own will, but without success. He received a final guidance for the call and eventually accepted. During the service, God revealed to him his beautiful wife who was committed to Christ. They eventually got married at the end of the service and were blessed with children. Later, he took up a lecturing appointment while preparing to still go abroad. He was told that a college laboratory needed some tools urgently but were then being imported from South Africa. He fabricated them perfectly and later became a multi-millionaire through manufacturing of lab equipment. He lost to gain!

Christian youths must put God's will first in all things. Put your education, job, time and indeed your life in God's hand then shall you have true rewards.

• Challenge: "All to Jesus I surrender, All to Him I freely give"

• Prayer: "Lord, I consecrate my life to you, in Jesus name"

• Quote: "Consider first God's will in all things"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Mark 10:28-30

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Higher Everyday
SUNDAY, JUNE 25, 2017

RUN FOR REWARDS
TEXT: 1 CORINTHIANS 9:24

"Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain" (1 Corinthians 9:24).

All athletes that compete in a sporting event want to win. In the Olympics for example, there are only three medals for the finalists: the gold, silver and bronze. In order to win you must be very good at your event. Training and discipline come next. Apart from regular long period of training, you must watch your eating and drinking habits. Many sports men and women have been disqualified in recent years for doping. President Harry Truman said, "In reading the lives of great men, I have found that the first victory won was over themselves. Self-discipline, with all of them came first." In our text of today, Apostle Paul compared the characteristics of a winning athlete to those of a Christian pilgrim, thus: self-discipline and keeping to the rules of the game.

In the Christian race, we also need self-discipline if we are to make heaven and win the crowns of glory and righteousness. You will not miss yours if you are faithful to the Lord and His word. Avoid all distractions and run with patience for your rewards.

• Challenge: "No matter the distractions, keep running"

• Prayer: "Oh God, help me to run to win in Jesus' name"

• Quote: "Make heaven and win crowns"

• Bible Reading in one Year: 1 Corinthians 9:24-27; 1 Peter 5:4-8

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Higher Everyday
TUESDAY, JUNE 27, 2017

RISKING FOR CHRIST
TEXT: ESTHER 4:15,16

"Then Esther bade them return Mordecai this answer; Go and fast for me and so will I go in unto the kingand if I perish, I perish" (Esther 4:15,16).

Life is war with series of battles for the Christian soldier. However, God cares for His children. The life of Richard Wurmbrand proves this. Born on the 24th of March, 1909, in Romania to Jewish parents, he gave his life to Christ in 1938. Later, he became a Christian minister. At this time, Romania had become a communist country and the government was controlling the church. Wurmbrand disliked this and preached against it. In 1948, he declared publicly that Christianity and communism were not compatible. The government was offended and jailed him for eight and a half years. He was beaten and tortured physically and psychologically. On his release, he was told not to preach again but he continued and was jailed again for 25 years. He was ransomed for about $7,000 after serving 5 years.

He eventually left Romania and lived in Norway, England and finally, America. He continued preaching, writing and helping Christians under persecution in various countries. He wrote more than 18 books, including Tortured for Christ. Esther also risked her life to save the Jews. We should dare to stand for Christ.

• Challenge: "Wherever God leads, I will go"

• Prayer: "Help me oh Lord, not to waver in my stand for you"

• Quote: "Dare to stand for Christ"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Acts 15:25, 26

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Higher Everyday
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 28, 2017

THE WORTH OF WORRYING
TEXT: MATTHEW 6:27

"Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?" (Matthew 6:27).

To worry is to feel anxious about something that is sad or unpleasant that may have happened or may happen. Well, if the unpleasant thing has happened and cannot be undone, why worry, instead of taking steps to prevent reoccurrence or worsening the problem? And if it is something that you are thinking may happen, why would you worry yourself to death before it happens? Indeed, it may not happen. Worry has no advantages but disadvantages. It spoils your life, making it useless; it makes you unable to cope with the unpleasant situation if it ever comes; worrying can ruin your health physically, spiritually and emotionally. "Worry is a horrible sin. It is the opposite of faith and trust," wrote John R. Rice.

You should not worry if you are a Christian. The question in our text was asked by our Lord Jesus. Worry cannot make us grow but it can make our problems grow. When Satan wants you to worry, use your shield of faith and like Paul and Silas, pray and sing praises unto God or get up and do something useful.

• Challenge: "A day of worry is more exhausting than a day of work!"

• Prayer: "Help me to avoid worry, oh God"

• Quote: "Worry is a horrible sin"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Philippians 4:4-6

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Higher Everyday
THURSDAY, JUNE 29, 2017

WATCHING WITNESSES
TEXT: HEBREWS 12.1

"Wherefore, seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us" (Hebrews 12.1).

The apostle has mentioned great heroes of faith like Abraham, Samson, Rahab and so on and how they steadfastly held on to their faith to the very end in the previous chapter. We are surrounded by these saints of the past in a special way. As believers today we have no excuse not to live the Christian life because we have a better covenant than those of the old covenant who had lived to please God in spite of the limitation of their dispensation. Besides, there are a lot of people watching our lives closely as witnesses today too. A song writer aptly counsels, "Let others see Jesus in you"

Your friends and neighbours may not have access to the Bible but your positive lifestyle which is built on the word of God can bring about the needed conviction which can lead them to Christ. We are to inspire others with godly example as children of light. You are the living epistle for the people around you to read

• Challenge: "Negative lifestyles will lead others to error and hell!"

• Prayer: "Lord, help me to live above reproach"

• Quote: "Let others see Jesus in you"

• Bible Reading in one Year: 1 Thessalonians 1:5-10

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Higher Everyday
FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2017

WATER BAPTISM
TEXT: MATTHEW 3:16A

"And Jesus, when he was baptized, went up straightway out of the water..." (Matthew 3:16a).

Charles Spurgeon in one of his sermons in 1893 says, "Read the New Testament impartially and you will always find that those who were baptized were Believers. They believed in the Lord Jesus Christ and then they were baptized into the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit." Once, we have given our lives to Christ and have turned away from all sins we are to submit ourselves to the ordinance of Water Baptism in order to declare publically our identity with and loyalty to Christ.

The doctrine of Water Baptism is often abused in many places. Some people do infant baptism. From our text we see Jesus undergoing baptism as an adult. We learn from there that children who cannot confess their sins know Christ as saviour cannot be baptized. Another error to avoid is sprinkling of water on people instead of immersing them in water as commanded and demonstrated by Christ. We must avoid any water Baptism that involves being immersed in water three times as that is erroneous too.

• Challenge: "Water Baptism is one the cardinal teachings of the Bible"

• Prayer: "Oh Lord, help me to avoid error"

• Quote: "Those who were baptized were believers"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Acts 8:36-39

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Higher Everyday
SATURDAY, JULY 1, 2017

EXCELLENT STUDENTS
TEXT: DANIEL 1:20

"And in all matters of wisdom and understanding, that the king enquired of them, he found them ten times better than all the magicians and astrologers that were in all his realm" (Daniel 1:20).

In his book, Think Big, Dr. Ben Carson said, "Students who excel academically, read extensively." A University student performed excellently in a course that recorded woeful results for most students. Asked why he excelled, he replied that he did not underestimate the course. Most of them did not give the course attention; a few made little efforts, but he gave it all his attention. He excelled because he determined to succeed where others failed.

What about you? Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael and Azariah excelled ten times above their counterparts because they were faithful to God and serious at work. You too can excel if you consecrate your life to Christ and abstain from all worldly lusts and distractions.

• Challenge: "Determine to succeed where others fail."

• Prayer: "Grant me Lord, the spirit of excellence"

• Quote: "Be faithful to God and serious at work"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Proverbs 22:29; Daniel 1:8-20

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Higher Everyday
SUNDAY, JULY 2, 2017

THE REDEEMER'S RETURN
TEXT: 1 THESSALONIANS 4:16

"For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first" (1 Thessalonians 4:16).

A "WATCH OUT" or "COMING SOON" sign is often positioned at strategic points in communities. They signify future events in sports, entertainment, politics or the launching of a new product. The world is busy but not about the rapture. Evangelist Billy Graham wrote, "The Bible indicates that when Christ returns the world will not be looking for him. The nations of the world will still be looking to their own devices and searching for new master plans to save the human race."

Christ's return will be sudden, giving no room for repentance. Surrender your life to Him now and begin to live for Him. In this way, you will partake in the rapture of the saints.

• Challenge: "Repent and live with the rapture in view."

• Prayer: "Lord, help me to be ready for your return"

• Quote: "The world is busy but not about the rapture"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Revelation 22:7-21

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Higher Everyday
MONDAY, JULY 3, 2017

SEEKING LOST SOULS
TEXT: LUKE 19:10

"For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost" (Luke 19:10).

Commenting on soul winning, Spurgeon said, "When Andrew went to find his brother (Simon), he little imagined how eminent Simon would become. You may be very deficient in talent yourself, and yet you may be the means of drawing to Christ one who shall become eminent in grace and service." This assertion is challenging to every Christian. What about you? Seeking lost souls is a divine mandate to all Christians, including youths. Like Christ, you are to seek unbelieving youths around you and share the Gospel with them. You can share God's word with fellow youths in college hostels, lecture halls, recreation halls, Cyber-cafes, among others. You can also use electronic media and tracts.

Through the Holy Spirit, your words and witness can make eternal difference in the lives of other youths. Do not hoard the good-news from the lost. Eternal reward awaits you if you obey Christ's mandate of soul winning.

• Challenge: "Share the Gospel with someone today."

• Prayer: "Lord, guide my steps to those who need you"

• Quote: "Do not hoard the good news from the lost"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Mark 16:15-20

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Higher Everyday
TUESDAY, JULY 4, 2017

WILLING TO WORK
TEXT: NEHEMIAH 4:6

"So built we the wall; and all the wall was joined together unto the half thereof: for the people had a mind to work" (Nehemiah 4:6).

According to Thomas Edison, "Being busy does not always mean real work. The object of all work is production or accomplishment and to either of these ends, there must be forethought, system, planning, intelligence and honest purpose, as well as perspiration. Seeming to do is not doing." This assertion is instructive to every youth who is willing to work and excel. In our text, Nehemiah and his workers progressed in rebuilding the broken wall of Jerusalem because of their willingness to work with team spirit in spite of opposition. Beloved, the work remains unfinished and goals unaccomplished when you are unwilling to work.

Are you experiencing failure in your academics despite your hard work? Perhaps you need a rethink and try team work and the use of past question and answer booklets. You can get help from friends who are better than you in your difficult subjects. Also, study with a functional time table and avoid distractions. Make sacrifice in order to attain to excellence.

• Challenge: "To attain excellence, you must be willing to work hard."

• Prayer: "Lord, make me willing and zealous in all my endeavours"

• Quote: "Seeming to do is not doing"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Nehemiah 4:1-6

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Higher Everyday
WEDNESDAY, JULY 5, 2017

MOUNTAINS MUST MOVE
TEXT: MATTHEW 17:20

"And Jesus said unto them: If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you" (Matthew 17:20).

One writer said, "People become really remarkable when they start thinking that they can do things. When they believe in themselves, they have the first secret of success." Another also said, "He can, who says he can; he cannot, who says he cannot." Our text says that if you have faith as a grain of mustard seed, you can move mountains. Do you have faith? To move your mountains and possess your possessions in Christ, you must be born again, holy and walk by faith before God. Hence George Mueller wrote, "There are certain actions and states of heart that make exercise of faith impossible. Disobedience to God in any form or in regard to anything, which implies impenitency of heart, makes faith impossible."

Do not fear or get discouraged. Do as our Lord Jesus said; say what you want to the mountains by faith and they will give way for your entry into your God-given inheritance.

• Challenge: "Speak to your mountain!"

• Prayer: "Dear Lord, help me to use my faith to overcome in Jesus' name"

• Quote: "Have faith in God"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Matthew 21:18-22

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Higher Everyday
THURSDAY, JULY 6, 2017

PASSION FOR PRAYER
TEXT: 1 THESSALONIANS 5:17

"Pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Comparing prayer to breathing, a writer commented: "You breathe instinctively without awareness and conscious attention; it's a natural expression of our moment by moment dependence on oxygen. That's how God wants us to engage in our communication with Him. He wants to be the air we breathe and the environment in which we live." Edwin Keith says, "Prayer is exhaling the spirit of man and inhaling the Spirit of God." As we breathe ceaselessly, so we should also pray. Do not neglect prayer. It is a means by which you show your dependence on God. Through prayer, you maintain a continuous communication with God. Prayer helps you to prepare for the inevitable challenges of life. Do not wait until trouble knocks before you pray.

Begin everyday with God in prayer, committing your studies, relationships, needs, worries, anxieties and fears to Him. Pray for every situation. Pray for the Church and your country. To enhance your prayer life, establish yourself in God's word. As you pray in faith, you will experience miracles in your life.

• Challenge: "Pray for every challenging situation in your life"

• Prayer: "Dear Lord, increase my passion for prayer in Jesus' name"

• Quote: "Begin everyday with God in prayer"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Philippians 4:6-7; Luke 18:1

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Higher Everyday
FRIDAY, JULY 7, 2017

TRANSFORMING FAITH TOUCH
TEXT: MATTHEW 9:21

"For she said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole" (Matthew 9:21).

Three youth boys were asked to define faith. Respectively, they said, "Faith is taking hold of God;" "Faith is holding unto God;" and "Faith is not letting go." Commenting on faith, someone else said, "Faith sees the way, doubt sees the obstacle! Faith sees the day, doubt sees the darkest night! Faith soars on high, doubt dreads to take a step." What is your definition of faith? Yours will determine whether your challenges will remain the way they are or they will change for the better. The woman in our text touched Christ's garment by faith, and she was healed instantaneously. She did not give room for doubt or unbelief; neither did she succumb to crowd pressure.

My child, what are your challenges? Could it be delayed admission into an institution of higher learning, sponsorship, repeated failure despite hard work or poor health? You will get your desired miracle if you reach out to God in prayer of faith. Be specific when you pray and God will transform your situation. Above all, be holy as God will not hear the prayer of sinners.

• Challenge: "Reach out to God today for your miracle"

• Prayer: "Lord, help my faith to soar above my challenges in Jesus' name"

• Quote: "Reach out to God in prayer of faith"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Mark 11:22-24

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Higher Everyday
SATURDAY, JULY 8, 2017

BEYOND EXPECTATIONS
TEXT: 1 CORINTHIANS 2:9

"But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him" (1 Corinthians 2:9).

In every life, there are obstacles that oppose the achievement of set goals. Many youths are enthusiastic about pursuing their set goals but may miss their targets due to unguided plans and lack of focus. Charles Gorden once said, "If a dreamer is not focused, he will soon have too many irons in the fire. He dies and finds a lot of things only half done." This is true of many youths. God has great things in stock for a reader of this devotional. To harvest your God-given blessings, you need to know Him experientially by confessing your sins and surrendering to Christ. As a Christian, do not lose focus of heaven because of persecution or the pursuit of the mundane things of the world. What God has in stock for His children are beyond our expectations- both materially and spiritually.

Be focused and diligent. Say "NO" to worldly pleasures that will hinder your success in your endeavours and entry into heaven. Knowing the great rewards awaiting us, nothing should separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus.

• Challenge: "To harness your blessings, surrender to Christ"

• Prayer: "Help me Lord to possess my possessions"

• Quote: "As a Christian, do not lose focus of heaven"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Deuteronomy 28:1-14

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Higher Everyday
SUNDAY, JULY 9, 2017

PAINFUL GROWTH PROCESS
TEXT: PHILIPPIANS 3:14

"I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus" (Philippians 3:14).

One writer said, "Successful people have learnt to do what doesn't come naturally. They are willing to confront discomfort, distractions and doubts and act in spite of them." Macy, the founder of Macy's Departmental Stores, failed at five different professions: Whaler, Retailer, Gold miner, Stockbroker and Real estate broker, before he succeeded. When asked what sustained him through his years of failure, he said, "Purpose and persistence." This is a lesson for Christian youths who want to grow. Beloved, from childhood, to adulthood, it is all a learning process with lots of challenges. For your body to grow well, you would need to take regular good food, exercise and some times, take medication for an illness. As we care for the body, so should we care for the soul and spirit.

If you are born again, you need to grow spiritually. This growth comes by the discipline of daily feeding on God's word, prayer, overcoming temptations and serving the Lord.

• Challenge: "The school of suffering brings out the best in you"

• Prayer: "Lord, help me to sail through storms of life with Godly faith"

• Quote: "Forget the past and keep pressing on"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Philippians 3:7-14; 2 Corinthians 11:21-30

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Higher Everyday
MONDAY, JULY 10, 2017

WATCH YOUR WORKS
TEXT: ECCLESIASTES 12:14

"For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil" (Philippians 3:14).

Elizabeth Elliot told a story about her brother, Thomas Howard. When they were young, their mother allowed Thomas to play with paper bags on condition he put them away at the end of his play. One day, their mother was astonished to find the kitchen littered with paper bags while Thomas sang hymns with his father. Mum confronted Thomas who replied, "But Mum, I want to sing". Registering his disgust, their father said, "It's no good singing God's praise if you are disobedient." What a timely warning for every Christian youth!

Dear friend, you need to watch your works before God. As you walk the Christian pathway, remain holy. Be honest at home, and in School among your teachers, school mates, and friends. Serve God without hypocrisy. Work honestly to God's glory. Flee all youthful lusts and do not conform to the world's standard. As you diligently serve the Lord, you will surely receive His reward at the end. Watch your works!

• Challenge: "Serve the Lord with a pure heart"

• Prayer: "Help me Lord to serve you in spirit and in truth"

• Quote: "Forget the past and keep pressing on"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Genesis 39:1-12; 1 Corinthians 3:13-15

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Higher Everyday
TUESDAY, JULY 11, 2017

THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD
TEXT: JOHN 8:12

"Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life" (John 8:12).

The role of sunlight in the life of men, animals and plants cannot be over-emphasized. Without sunlight, the ecology of the earth cannot be sustained, and man's survival would be extremely difficult. This shows the importance of sunlight to man. In our text Jesus says, "I am the light of the world." My friend, do you have Jesus, the Light of the world, in you, or are you groping in darkness? Christ gave His life to redeem you from this dark, sinful, corrupt and evil world.

Have you received Him into your heart? Without Christ, you are in darkness and cannot live a fulfilled life here on earth, nor spend eternity with Him in Heaven. If you have not surrendered to Christ, do so now by confessing your sins, and receiving Him into your life. Begin to glow for Him and illuminate unbelieving youths around you for He said, "Ye are the light of the world" (Matthew 5:14a).

• Challenge: "Receive Christ, the Light and glow for Him"

• Prayer: "Help me Lord to lighten the dark world around me"

• Quote: "Without Christ, you are in darkness"

• Bible Reading in one Year: John 1:1-9

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