Higher Everydɑy
TUESDAY, JUNE 26, 2018

POWER IN HIS NAME
TEXT: ACTS 3:6

"Then Peter said, silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk" (Acts 3:6).

Hallelujah! The power in the name of Jesus made a 40-year old impotent man perfectly whole. The man had been an invalid from birth. His case was pathetic and hopeless. He was a perpetual beggar and lived on the generosity of passers-by. He met Peter and John, men who knew the power in Jesus' name, and his history changed! The power in the name made him perfectly whole.

Listen to E.W. Kenyon, "Have you realised that you have the name of Jesus in your care and that the name has power even today to heal the sick, save the lost, and bring life, joy and gladness to human hearts? And yet you have never used it!" The name of Jesus is greater than every name. No incurables or impossibilities when we mention the name in faith against any negative circumstance. Beloved, it is now your turn to do exploits using the mighty name of Jesus. In His name go and heal the sick, cure the people with diseases, deliver the oppressed and minister salvation to sinners and backsliders.

• Chɑllenge: "There is power in the name of Jesus."

• Prɑyer: "Help me O Lord to use the power in your name to help those suffering around me"

• Quote: "We are the salt and the light of the world"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Philipians 2:9-11

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
WEDNESDAY, JUNE 27, 2018

A SOLDIER FOR CHRIST
TEXT: 2 TIMOTHY 2:4

"No man that warreth entangleth himself with the affairs of this life; that he may please Him who hath chosen him to be a soldier" (2 Timothy 2:4).

Soldiers are a special breed. They are considered so important because of the uniqueness of their service to their father land. Consequently, soldiers are always isolated from civilians, accommodated in barracks so they may be equipped through training with the skills they need to defend their country without distraction. Applying this to Christians, Charles Grandison Finney stated, "Young converts should be trained to labour for Christ, just as carefully as young recruits in the army are trained for war. The plan is to train a body of devoted Christians who know how to pray, and to attend anxious meetings, and deal with inquirers and how to save souls."

Christians are spiritual soldiers in Christ's army. While they may physically interact with everyone else, Christians must continually update their spiritual warfare skills, keeping alert and battle - ready at all times. This requires avoiding fleshly pleasures that attract spiritual civilians, that is, sinners and compromisers. Every true soldier of Christ functions best in close communion with the Lord, away from carnal distractions.

• Chɑllenge: "The greatest soldiers of Christ were all groomed in isolation."

• Prɑyer: "Equip me, O God, with courage and gallantry for effective soldiery in the Lord's army"

• Quote: "Christians are spiritual soldiers in Christ's army"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: 2 Timothy 2:1-6; 15-24

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
THURSDAY, JUNE 28, 2018

AVOID SELF DESTRUCTION
TEXT: HOSEA 13:9

"O Israel, thou hast destroyed thyself; but in Me is thine help" (Hosea 13:9).

I once observed with shock, the unconscious reaction of a young man who could not get hemp for just about two hours. His whole body vibrated uncontrollably until he managed to escape, smoked hemp and returned looking normal and "happier." This is how many young persons have destroyed their lives and their future, experimenting with forbidden substances, queer lifestyles and sinful habits that have ruined them.

According to Jonathan Edward, "Sin is the ruin and misery of the soul, it is destructive in its nature; and if God should leave it without restraint there would need nothing else to make the soul perfectly miserable, But Jesus died on the Cross of Calvary to redeem the human race from the consequences of sin. Continued indulgence in sinful practices only destroys the body and slowly damns the soul. The temporary relief or aggrandizement that sinners experience is just the devil's means of tightening the noose around the neck of his captive. No matter how deep into evil you have gone, Jesus is waiting for your return - and He will deliver you!

• Chɑllenge: "Turn over your sinful lifestyle, Jesus is waiting to embrace you."

• Prɑyer: "Draw me back unto yourself, O Lord"

• Quote: "Sin is...destructive in its nature"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Luke 15:11-24

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
FRIDAY, JUNE 29, 2018

BE YOURSELF
TEXT: GENESIS 27:19

"And Jacob said unto his father, I am Esau thy firstborn; I have done according as thou badest me: arise, I pray thee, sit and eat of my venison, that thy soul may bless me" (Genesis 27:19).

A very interesting quote reads: "Be yourself; others are already taken!" Indeed, you can only be you; you cannot be another, no matter how hard you try. You may be able to mimic or impersonate someone else but only for a while; afterwards you must inexorably revert to your normal self.

Some, like Jacob, may have successfully obtained undue advantage by false pretense, yet until they fix their error, they cannot avoid a guilty conscience and truly excel. Until you sincerely acknowledge your depravity of heart, you cannot receive grace for salvation. Until Jacob properly identified himself, he could not prevail. Your success, both in life and in eternity, depends on this simple truth.

• Chɑllenge: "Tell the LORD exactly who you are and He will fix you."

• Prɑyer: "O LORD, I present myself to you today just as I am, fix me and use me for your glory"

• Quote: "Indeed, you can only be you; you cannot be another"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Genesis 27:1-22

See more here:

.

Higher Everydɑy
SATURDAY, JUNE 30, 2018

BUSY HANDS
TEXT: ACTS 9:39

"Then Peter arose and went with them. When he was come, they brought him into the upper chamber: and all the widows stood by him weeping, and shewing the coats and garments which Dorcas made, while she was with them" (Acts 9:39).

Dorcas was indeed a hard working lady. When she died she left behind something that would be a memorial, though the prayer of Peter brought her back to life. When you leave this world, what legacy are you going to leave behind spiritually and secularly? Dorcas was a perfect blend of a model Christian. She was not slothful in business and was fervent in spirit. In the words of Edson Arantes do Nascimento (aka Pele), a football giant, "success is no accident. It is hard work, perseverance, learning, studying, sacrifice and most of all, love of what you are doing or learning to do." Colin Powell's view corroborates that of Pele. He said, A dream doesn't become reality through magic; it takes sweat determination and hard work." God expects His children to be balanced in all areas. You must take your studies very seriously so that you can be your best for God.

Keep your dreams alive and understand that achieving life goals requires faith in God, a good relationship with Him and working with your brain and hands.

• Chɑllenge: "A dream doesn't become reality through magic."

• Prɑyer: "Lord, take away slothfulness from me, in Jesus' name"

• Quote: "Success is no accident it is hard work"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Romans 12:11-13

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SUNDAY JULY 01, 2018

THE BAD INFLUENCE OF JEZEBEL
TEXT: REVELATION 2:18-23

"Notwithstanding I have a few things against thee, because thou sufferest that woman Jezebel, which calleth herself a prophetess, to teach and to seduce My servants to commit fornication, and to eat things sacrificed unto idols" (Revelation 2:20).

When the name Jezebel is mentioned, what comes to the minds of many is a picture of a long time ago idolatrous and sinful woman, and perhaps the worst woman who ever existed. Alas Jezebels are everywhere today! They are on the social media promoting pornography. Any friend of yours who dresses to promote nudity and licentious life is a Jezebel. A girl who always paints her face, fingers; wears coloured hair and goes about with a stretched forth neck to seduce men is a Jezebel. You must be on the alert to overcome the modern Jezebels who are more powerful than the biblical Jezebel because the modern ones have access to tools like radio, television, and social media to promote their evil acts.

There are men who possess the nature of Jezebel too. They lure careless girls to fornication, secret societies and other strange worships. All forms of immorality are associated with men and women who are modern Jezebels. As a child of God, you are duty bound to shun any association with anyone whose life does not help you to draw closer to God.

• Chɑllenge: "Alas, deliver me from the hands of Jezebels!"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, deliver me from the hands of Jezebels."

• Quote: "They are on the social media promoting pornography"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Romans 6:13-20

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
MONDAY JULY 02, 2018

THE PATRIARCH ENOCH
TEXT: HEBREW 11:5

"By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God" (Hebrews 11:5).

The impeccable life Enoch lived thousands of years ago will continue to remain a monumental example for generations yet unborn. His life is a pointer to God's riches of grace available to change the vilest of sinners. Enoch lived in a corrupt world; yet the grace of God kept him undefiled and unspotted from the sinful practices. True Christians can repeat the life of Enoch over and over again. God is not Partial and is ready to make you a burning and shining light in your school and neighbourhood. "The greatest need of my people is my personal holiness, "declared Robert Murray McCheyne. He had passion for exemplary holy life in word and in deed.

Those who believe in the doctrine of eternal security and live in sin are not partners of Enoch, "for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God." Do you have a testimony that you please God? Heaven is for prepared people: "And every man that hath this hope in him purifieth himself, even as he is pure" (1 John 3:3).

• Chɑllenge: "Enoch lived in a sinful world, but he was holy."

• Prɑyer: "Lord, make me another Enoch, in Jesus' name."

• Quote: "Do you have a testimony that you please God?"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Genesis 5:21-24

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
TUESDAY, JULY 03, 2018

DEALING WITH PEER PRESSURE
TEXT: PROVERBS 3:6

"In all thy ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct thy paths" (Proverbs 3:6).

"My daughter is very strong willed and is a great kid. She doesn't drink. She doesn't smoke. She doesn't yield to peer pressure. I think how affectionate my wife and I have been to her over the years, all play into that." Doug Flutie hinted about his daughter who did not give in to peer pressure. Can your parents and God boast of your character like that? God challenged Satan boldly about the life of Job because Job was a good example.

Peer pressure is something everyone will go through. The onus is on you to reject the pressure so that you don't derail from your Christian faith. Joseph faced it in Potiphar's house from the wife of Potiphar herself. The young Joseph who had counted the cost of losing his soul to eternal doom and destruction would not lie with this devil sent woman. As a teenager, the pressure on you can be overwhelming but you can overcome like Daniel, Timothy and others. Don't submit your body to any kind of sin because of pressures from others. Remember God is watching you.

• Chɑllenge: "Peer pressure is something everyone will go through."

• Prɑyer: "Keep me from falling oh my God."

• Quote: "The onus is on you to reject the pressure."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Proverbs 1:7-16

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
WEDNESDAY, JULY 04, 2018

FLEE YOUTHFUL LUSTS
TEXT: 2 TIMOTHY 2:22

"Flee also youthful lusts: but follow righteousness, faith, charity, peace, with them that call on the Lord out of a pure heart" (2 Timothy 2:22).

"Revenge, lust, ambition, pride, and self will are too often exalted as the gods of man's idolatry; while holiness, peace, contentment, and humility are viewed as unworthy of a serious thought," observed Charles Spurgeon, one of God's generals. The average youth is under the grip of youthful lusts as he/she willingly allows himself or herself to be a tool in the hand of the devil who has come to steal, kill, and destroy. You need to be valiant and resilient to stay on top in these last days when many youths are compromising their faith in order to get earthly benefits.

Youthful lusts are sinful passions that are peculiar to the youths who are vulnerable. As youths are growing up they want to explore and many of them will no longer heed the warnings of their parents and pastors. A lot of youths have put themselves in pitiable conditions because of their obstinacy. That's why cases of robberies, drug abuse, internet fraud, unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted diseases (STD'S), etc. continue to enjoy prominence in our society today. Be watchful and prayerful.

• Chɑllenge: "Sexually immorality is not an act of love but lust."

• Prɑyer: "Lord deliver me from youthful lust, in Jesus' name."

• Quote: "Youthful lusts are sinful passions."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Genesis 39:7-12

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
THURSDAY JULY 5, 2018

SAMUEL'S ADOLESCENT STAGE
TEXT: 1 SAMUEL 2:18-26

"And the child grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men" (1 Samuel 2:26).

According to Wikipedia, "Adolescence is a transitional stage of physical and psychological development that generally occurs during the period from puberty to adulthood." It is a period of transition from child-parent relationship to young adult-parent relationship. It is a crisis period and ungodly youths crave for freedom and self-identity negatively and put themselves into avoidable problems. Young Samuel remains a reference point at all times. He grew up with Eli's children who were defiled, ungodly, and obviously bad examples. Samuel had every reason, humanly speaking, to go the wrong direction of life, but he shone for God. Eli was an indulgent parent who never strictly disciplined his children. But that didn't affect Samuel whose heart was fixed on fulfilling God's purpose for his life and his generation.

Many youths live ungodly lives because they don't set their affections and aspirations on things of Heaven like Samuel. They become prey for the devil who is always looking for docile and unserious Christian youths to devour. Make sure you are born again to live saintly and steadfast like Samuel.

• Chɑllenge: "It is time to prepare for the future."

• Prɑyer: "Oh God, may I not misuse my adolescence, in Jesus' name."

• Quote: "Live saintly and steadfast like Samuel."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: 1 Samuel 8:1-6

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
FRIDAY 6 JULY, 2018

TIPS FOR SUCCESS
TEXT: JOSHUA 1:1-8

"This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success" (Joshua 1:8).

The price of success is hard work, dedication to the job or task at hand. Determination will always put a child of God at vantage position to make good success. Joshua who received this promise from God directly was a true servant of God. It is therefore clear that good success is reserved for those who have the fear of God. C. H. Spurgeon said, "success can go to my head, and will unless I remember that it is God who accomplishes the work, that He can continue to do without my help, and that He will be able to make out with other means whenever He cuts me down to size." The Christian walk is characterised by faith and holiness of life. If you maintain a good relationship with God, He will always help you to succeed in your academics or work.

Academic success that comes through exam malpractice, submission of your body to lecturers for marks is sinful and repulsive in the sight of God. Believing youths should shun all vices and cleave to the living God who has promised them good success.

• Chɑllenge: "Being successful means that you're working hard."

• Prɑyer: "God, help me to be diligent."

• Quote: "The price of success is hard work."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: PROVERBS 6:6-12

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SATURDAY JULY 7, 2018

DILIGENCE NOT FRAUD
TEXT: PROVERBS 22:20-29

"Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men" (Proverbs 22:29).

"The expectations of life depend upon diligence; the mechanic that would perfect his work must first sharpen his tools," was Confucius' timeless counsel. Similarly, Miguel de Cervantes adds that, "Diligence is the mother of good fortune, and idleness it's opposite, never brought a man to the goal of any of his best wishes." A diligent youth will definitely make Christ his or her cornerstone. A youth that is diligent and not delinquent will rise above his or her peers and sit with kings in his or her area of specialization. Those who try to cut corners will end up creating discomforts for themselves here and in eternity.

The desire to make it quick has pushed many youths into armed robbery, Internet fraud, prostitution, human trafficking and many other despicable social vices. Many have met their waterloo in the process of such ignoble acts thereby bringing shame to their families while they themselves are in hell receiving eternal punishment. Be wise, work and be wary to fraud.

• Chɑllenge: "The expectations of life depend upon diligence."

• Prɑyer: "Give me grace to be diligent, oh God."

• Quote: "A diligent youth will definitely make it in life."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: 2 THESSALONIANS 3:6-12

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SUNDAY JULY 08, 2018

CHOOSING A CAREER
TEXT: PSALM 25:1-22

"The secret of the LORD is with them that fear Him; and He will shew them His covenant" (Psalm 25:14).

A career is an individual's life time adventure through study, vocation or world of work. In choosing a career a number of factors must be considered. You have to consider your ability, interest and the requirements for the career you have in mind. If you are a student, you may have to see the school counsellor for guidance. Your parents' career choice for you may be your choice. This calls for care, mutual understanding and prayer since your parents are key players in your life. Above all, commit your ways into God's hand for guidance into a blissful and God-glorifying career. Your pastor, who is God's representative, can also be of help while considering a choice of career. His prayers will surely help you.

Take advantage of career Days in your school and pay attention to the resource persons who normally give career talks on such days. Work very hard on your academics, especially on the subjects required for your career choice. Above all, be devoted to God and forget not to serve Him.

• Chɑllenge: "Work very hard on your academics."

• Prɑyer: "God, guide me to a career that will help me serve you better."

• Quote: "Commit your ways into God's hand for guidance."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: GENESIS 47:1-3

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
MONDAY, JULY 09, 2018

STUDY SKILLS
TEXT: 2 TIMOTHY 2:15

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

Study skills, academic skills, or study strategies are approaches applied to learning. They are generally critical to success in school, considered essential for acquiring good grades, and useful for learning throughout one's life (Wikipedia). God's children must be wise and take their studies seriously. When you are in the class or church you must apply effective listening skills which involve paying rapt attention to the teacher or preacher. Also, jot down key points and avoid distractions.

Pray against mind wandering which can hinder you when studying. Do reflective reading by doing intermittent recalling of what you read. "I divide all readers into two classes: Those who read to remember and those who read to forget," said William L. Philips. In a nutshell, apply the SQ3R strategy, which means Survey what you read; ask yourself Questions as your read; Read actively; Recall what you read, and Review what you read. If you have a special challenge with your studies see your school counsellor for help. God is interested in your all round success so make sure you serve Him while you pursue your academic endeavours.

• Chɑllenge: "God's children must be wise and take their studies seriously."

• Prɑyer: "Help me to study and understand oh my God."

• Quote: "Apply the SQ3R strategy."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Revelation 1:1-8

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
TUESDAY, JULY 10, 2018

PROFITABLE STUDY GROUP
TEXT: DANIEL 1:4

"Children in whom was no blemish, but well favoured, and skillful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science and such as had ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans" (Daniel 1:4).

Study group refers to a group of people coming together purposefully to study and usually meeting on scheduled days to discuss learning outcomes, progress, areas of focus, and practising how to answer questions objectively. Many students enjoy study groups, depending on the members, effectiveness of the group and the environment. A study group can be a viable tool for students' growth or for students' downfall. As a Christian youth, choose your study group carefully. When a study group begins to shift from its original purpose, you must draw the line immediately. If the study group is becoming a breeding ground for occultism or for discussing stuffs geared towards immoral relationships, you have to disengage from it. God will surely help you when you are on the path of obedience.

In a foreign school, three friends: Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego, came tops at the end of their studies. You can excel through group study. In your group find a way of sharing the gospel with group members especially by your lifestyle. You can suggest having prayer before and after a study session.

• Chɑllenge: "Many students enjoy and benefit from study groups."

• Prɑyer: "Oh God, choose a good study group for me."

• Quote: "Choose your study group carefully."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Psalm 133

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
WEDNESDAY, JULY 11, 2018

SOCIAL MEDIA AND SOCIAL VICES
TEXT: 1 THESSALONIANS 4:2-8

"For God hath not called us unto uncleanliness, but unto holiness" (1 Thessalonians 4:7).

Amanda Crew expresses a profound view on the social media thus: "I have mixed feelings about how fast things are changing as a result of technology. There's no denying that through technology there are amazing things being created that help people with diseases or help people's dreams come true. But there's also this obsession. Social media is the most dangerous of them all." The menace and the harmful effects of the social media are just too many nowadays; youths are generally the target of most of these vices that Satan, through his agents, is spreading on the internet. Pornography, nudity, fraud, occultism, hate speeches, false information and so on, are being promoted on social media.

Christian youths can belong to a social media group to enhance group participation in academic discussion or other edifying spiritual endeavours. Youths who have eternity in view must choose wisely who to add or to accept as friends on a chosen platform to avoid being drawn away by the wicked. Be a Christian at all times.

• Chɑllenge: "Be a Christian at all times."

• Prɑyer: "Oh Lord, keep me from falling."

• Quote: "Social media is the most dangerous of them all."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: 1 Thessalonians 5:22-23

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
THURSDAY, JULY 12, 2018

YOUR FUTURE HAPPINESS
TEXT: REVELATION 21:4

"And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain; for the former things are passed away" (Revelation 21:4).

Happiness means so many things to many people. Some think happiness begins and ends in this world. They celebrate when they get new jobs, promotions, build houses or the likes, but forget about the eternal happiness which will be revealed at the end of life on earth. It is a good thing to celebrate and be happy when we are blessed by God with things like academic success, jobs, and so on, but we have to remember that those things are mundane or ephemeral.

True and lasting happiness is in Heaven the eternal abode of believers. Mary K. Baxter said, "One of the beautiful things about heaven is that our tears and sorrows will be replaced with eternal joy, as promised in the Word of God. Yet there is much more." If you want to be part of that future happiness the preparation starts today. Jesus assures us: "In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you."

• Chɑllenge: "Eternal joy will replace tears and sorrows in Heaven."

• Prɑyer: "Oh God, help me never to miss heaven, the blissful place."

• Quote: "True and lasting happiness is in Heaven."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: John 14:1-3

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
FRIDAY, JULY 13, 2018

THE FIRST COMMANDMENT
TEXT: EXODUS 20:3

"Thou shalt have no other gods before Me" (Exodus 20:3).

Ellicott's Bible commentary hints that, "God does not suppose that the Israelites, after all that He had done for them, would discard Him, and substitute other gods in His place, but fears the syncretism which would unite His worship with that of other deities." God does not expect His children to place anything above Him. All those who bow to images even in the church break this command. Some youths explore other ways of worship and end up being entangled in strange worship that displeases God. Matthew Henry, another Bible commentator, warns that, "The worship of creatures is here forbidden. Whatever comes short of perfect love, gratitude, reverence, or worship, breaks this commandment." It must be noted that the worship of God has been perverted and polluted in many assemblies today. Therefore you must be careful about where and how you worship God to avoid error.

If you have not given your life to Christ you cannot worship God acceptably. Jesus tells us that "God is a spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in Spirit and in truth" (John 4:24).

• Chɑllenge: "God does not expect His children to place anything above Him."

• Prɑyer: "O God deliver me from Idol worshipping."

• Quote: "Be careful about where and how you worship."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: John 4:22-24

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SATURDAY, JULY 14, 2018

MY DUTY TO MY PARENTS
TEXT: EXODUS 20:12

"Honour thy father and thy mother: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee" (Exodus 20:12).

Many youths tend to be disrespectful to their parents nowadays; this is because many of them learn things from the wrong sources and not from the Bible which gives light and hope to Christians. Christian youths have God-given duties toward their parents. You are to obey and honour them; and receive good advice from them. Some youths seek to have total freedom from parental control, but Ron Taffel's counsel is golden and instructive to all youths, "Even as kids reach adolescence, they need more than ever for us to watch over them. Adolescence is not about letting go. It's about hanging on during a very bumpy ride." As a student, you need parental guide because your parents are more experienced than you are.

"Hear, O my son, and receive my sayings; and the years of thy life shall be many" (Proverbs 4:10). Those who make it a duty to honour and respect their parents have the promise of long life for them in scripture. By extension you are to respect and honour your pastors who are spiritual parents because they watch over your souls.

• Chɑllenge: "Love, honour and obey your parents in the Lord."

• Prɑyer: "Help me oh God to always do my duty to my parents."

• Quote: "You are to obey and honour them."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Ephesians 6:1-3

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SUNDAY, JULY 15, 2018

GIVE US OUR DAILY BREAD
TEXT: MATTHEW 6:11

"Give us this day our daily bread" (Matthew 6:11).

Grace is available for each of us every day - our spiritual daily bread - but we've got to remember to ask for it with a grateful heart and not worry about whether there will be enough for tomorrow," advised Sarah Ban Breathnach, listen to this testimony from Apostle Paul, "But I have all, and abound: I am full, having received of Epaphroditus the things which were sent from you, an odour of a sweet smell, a sacrifice acceptable, wellpleasing to God. But my God shall supply all my need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:18-19). Nothing gives the believer hope like the assurance of God's provision of daily bread. You are not supposed to be afraid because of what you will eat and drink. God who created you has you in His mind at all times.

Pray for the needy in bad conditions worldwide. Youths facing hunger and deprivation should not give up because God will provide all their needs as He provided for Paul and many others. Relax your God is alive.

• Chɑllenge: "God does not expect His children to place anything above Him."

• Prɑyer: "Heavenly Father, help me to trust in you for all I need, In Jesus' name."

• Quote: "Relax your God is alive."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Matthew 6:25-34

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
MONDAY, JULY 16, 2018

TROUBLE-FREE TONGUE
TEXT: PROVERBS 21:23

"Whoso keepeth his mouth and his tongue keepeth his soul from troubles" (Proverbs 21:23).

When a fire is under - control, it is a useful servant, but when it rages uncontrollably, it is a destructive giant that consumes everything in its path. In 1983, a bushfire in Australia devastated the states of South Australia and over seventy persons were killed along with 36,000 cattle, 320,000 sheep, and over 2,000 homes destroyed.

The Bible describes the tongue as a fire; it is a destructive giant that can consume everything if it is uncontrolled. How do you use your tongue? Is your tongue uncontrollable? Why don't you surrender your heart and tongue to God for a cleansing so you don't get into trouble? A trouble-free tongue is a tongue that speaks with caution. A well-controlled tongue is never caught up in a web of exaggeration gossip, backbiting and lies. Many youths today, allow their tongues to run loose like a water tap with faulty control. Keep your tongue under heavy check (Psalm 141:3). The way you use your tongue will determine your happiness now and in eternity. Pray to be saved and sanctified for a trouble-free tongue.

• Chɑllenge: "Keep your tongue under God's check."

• Prɑyer: "Lord, set a watch over my mouth, In Jesus' name."

• Quote: "Speak with caution."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: James 3:3-8; Colossians 4:6

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
TUESDAY, JULY 17, 2018

PLEASURE AND POVERTY
TEXT: PROVERBS 21:17

"He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man: he that loveth wine and oil shall not be rich" (Proverbs 21:17).

A certain young man in his lust for freedom without restraint demanded for the portion of his own inheritance from his father and traveled to a far country, where he wasted his life and wealth in pursuit of fun and pleasure. When his money got finished, his so called friends deserted him, since they were only fair weather friends. He learned the hard way that, you cannot enjoy the things money can buy if you ignore the things money cannot buy. He became destitute and poor. Fortunately he went back to the father in repentance.

Are you like this young man, the prodigal son? Count the cost. Do not hurry along with the pleasure - mad - throng. Are you a fun seeker and pleasure lover? This is risky as not only poverty but diseases and hell fire can be consequences. Reread our text above and check your life. All forms of frivolities and pleasure lead to poverty because you can never plan and save for tomorrow when you live a wasteful life. Pray for your soul's salvation, then begin to add value to your life today.

• Chɑllenge: "Beware of fun and pleasure."

• Prɑyer: "Rid me of all sinful pleasure oh Lord."

• Quote: "Add value to your life."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Proverbs 23:21-23; 1 Timothy 5:6

See more here:

WHATSAPP FOR CHRIST
[Teaching the person & Principles of Jesus Christ]
Click on the Link Below to join the WhatsApp Group or send a message to
+27630083342 to manually add you.
https:///6AESD4CqSO98aFseXiK5Jv
You can also like our facebook page@ "FB for Christ".
www.facebook.com/faceb00k4Christ

Higher Everydɑy
WEDNESDAY, JULY 18, 2018

DENOUNCE ALL DECEIVERS
TEXT: 2 JOHN 1:10

"If there come any unto you, and bring not this doctrine, receive him not into your house, neither bid him God speed" (2 John 1:10).

In the last days, the Bible says many false prophets shall arise and shall deceive many. Today so many young people have been deceived into false teachings and false worship. God, through Apostle John, warns true believers to guard against accepting false doctrines because many deceivers have entered into the world. Those who distort and oppose the word of God must not be allowed to teach in the fellowship of believers.

That is why Paul the apostle constantly battled false teachers, who hounded his step and perverted the truth of the gospel. He wrote from Corinth, a place where false apostles posed as servants of God, causing great damage (2 Corinthians 11:3-4). As he thought of his converts in Rome, he didn't want them to be led astray. He had heard that they were doing well in the Lord. So his love for them promoted him to warn them against false teachers.

• Chɑllenge: "Do not receive deceivers and false prophets."

• Prɑyer: "Lord, may I not be trapped by false prophets in Jesus' name."

• Quote: "Beware of deceivers."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Matthew 24:4-5; 11:12

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
THURSDAY, JULY 19, 2018

CHILDREN OF LIGHT AND DAY
TEXT: 1 THESSALONIANS 5:5

"You are all the children of light, and the children of the day: we are not of the night, nor of darkness" (1 Thessalonians 5:5).

Warren in one of his lyrics said: "Let your light so shine that the world may see how to come to Christ who will set them free; Let it's rays gleam bright when the darkness falls, Till each sinful soul for the Saviour calls. Let your light so shine that its beams may reach every darkness soul, thus the gospel preach; Let its brightness shine till that endless day burst upon our sight ne'er to pass away."

Our text portrays Christian youths as children of light and of the day. Is your light shining? As a Christian youth, you are light whatever you are. God expects your light to shine among unbelieving youths, pointing them to Christ who alone can set them free from sin. You must not hide your identity. Your life should portray the light in light. To glow for Christ live a holy life, abstaining from sin and all works of darkness.

• Chɑllenge: "Abstain from sin and all works of darkness."

• Prɑyer: "Help me Lord to shine as light in this dark sinful world."

• Quote: "Beware of deceivers."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Matthew 5:14-16; Ephesians 5:1-8

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
FRIDAY, JULY 20, 2018

HOW SINS ARE HIDDEN
TEXT: JAMES 5:20

"Let him know, that he which converteth the sinner from the error of his way shall save a soul from death, and shall hide a multitude of sins" (James 5:20).

Commenting on his job, a lifeguard said, "I watched from the side of the pool to ensure the safety of those swimming. Leaving my post, or even becoming lax in my attentiveness, could have grave consequences for in danger of drowning.....it was my responsibility to........return him to safety......." Like the lifeguard ensures the safety of swimmers, Christian youths are to ensure the salvation of unbelieving youths.

Today, many youths are swimming in sin and if they die, they will go to hell. Our text says that sins are hidden when souls are converted to Christ. Are you converted and through whom? Your parents? "The Mother in her office holds the key of the soul, and she it is who stamps the coin of character and makes the savage being......a Christian man," says the Old play. God has given you the responsibility of soul winning. Arise now and be an effective instrument in the conversion of fellow youths and hide multitude of sins.

• Chɑllenge: "Win a soul for Christ today to prevent the spread of sin."

• Prɑyer: "Use me Lord to save souls and hide multitude of sins."

• Quote: "Sins are hidden when souls are converted."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Ezekiel 18:21-32

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SATURDAY, JULY 21, 2018

A FRIEND OF THE WORLD
TEXT: JAMES 4:4

"You adulterers and adulteresses, know you not that the friendship of the world is enmity with God? Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the enemy of God" (James 4:4).

Friendship is a wonderful thing when properly utilised. Individuals and whole nations have enjoyed the mutual support, encouragement, provision and protection that friendship affords. Many a youth going through life's problems has found hope and comfort in the backing of a good friend. But there is an important lesson on friendship taught by elementary mathematics; it says positive multiplied by negative is equal to negative. Practically, the friend (positive) of my enemy (negative) is my enemy (negative). Apostle James brings this truth to life.

God loves the men and women of the world; He gave His only begotten Son to die for all. They have however made a conscious choice to reject God. The systems and pursuits of the world run contrary to God's will. Are you a true believer? You are in the world but not of it. No one can follow the social dictates of this sinful world and be a friend of God whose world it spurns. Beware, to be a friend of the world is to fry with the world in the coming fire of God's judgment.

• Chɑllenge: "I'd rather have Jesus than anything this world affords."

• Prɑyer: "Lord, wean my heart off worldly attractions."

• Quote: "Friends of the world shall fry up with the world."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: John 15:18-20

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SUNDAY, JULY 22, 2018

CAST YOUR CARE ON CHRIST
TEXT: 1 PETER 5:7

"Casting all your care upon Him; for He careth for you" (1 Peter 5:7).

Mama, why are you still carrying the load?" he asked."
Where else am I supposed to hold it, my son?" she replied."
Down on the seat, of course, mama," he answered,
"You don't have to bear it any longer!"

The young man had given a ride to the elderly woman he met on the road to his village in rural Africa. But, checking his rear-view mirror, he was shocked to have discovered the woman still carrying the bundle of clothes on her head!

How like many believers! They come into Christ but still carry the load of their cares, troubles, headaches, and fears. Jesus has their spirits but Satan burdens their minds with needless worry, robbing them of present happiness. Young people fret over mundane things as body image, peer acceptance or more serious issues like conflict in the family, school performance or availability of school fees. Believer, Jesus cares for you; He can fix all the things that trouble your mind.

• Chɑllenge: "Worry steals today's joy and tomorrow's excitement."

• Prɑyer: "Be still my soul, your Saviour is near."

• Quote: "Young people fret over mundane things."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Philippians 4:4-7

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
MONDAY JULY 23, 2018

I, A BULLDOZER?
TEXT: ISAIAH 41:15

"Behold, I will make thee a new sharp threshing instrument having teeth: Thou shalt thresh the mountains, and them small, and shalt make the hills as chaff" (Isaiah 41:15).

Impossible things remain only in the premise of the Almighty God, like a cake of barley bread crushing a military tent and a mere mortal man grinding a mountain to bits. It just goes to prove the fact that God cannot be limited by man's weakness or locked down by Satan's wiles. Gideon was that "cake to bread." With only 300 men armed with trumpets and lamps, he routed a coalition of three nations. And you, dear believer, are God's bulldozer to beat small the mountains of sin, sickness, fear, failure, Poverty and bad luck.

Have you ever seen some paintings depicting the might of Samson, the Tormentor-in-chief of the Philistines? Big, muscular, even giant - sized! That's the human mind trying to match the exploits with the man. Or, if he tore off whole city gates, killed a thousand soldiers and pulled down a sports arena unaided, how else would he look! The infinite God, however, can pack such mighty power into a small human frame. Remember ".....greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world" (1 John 4:4).

• Chɑllenge: "Even a worm is mighty when indwelt by God."

• Prɑyer: "I say to the mountains, move, in Jesus' name."

• Quote: "Believer, don't belittle yourself."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Judges 7:9-25

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
TUESDAY JULY 24, 2018

ANSWERED IN ADVANCE
TEXT: ISAIAH 65:16-25

"And it shall come to pass, that before they call, I will answer; and while they are yet speaking, I will hear" (Isaiah 65:24).

A missionary in interior Africa had an emergency in the mission outpost. A baby had just been born prematurely; a hot-water bottle was needed if it would survive. The following morning he informed other children in the orphanage. A little girl then suggested that they pray about it. The missionary knew that it usually took three months for shipments from the home office overseas to reach his rural outpost. So even if God answered immediately a 90-day wait would still follow, but which time the poor infant would have long died. Nevertheless not wanting to discourage them he agreed as the children requested God for a hot water bottle AND a little pink doll to keep the baby's company. The following morning, a truck pulled up in the mission headquarters. Sure enough, there amidst the stuff was the hot water bottle and the baby doll!

God knew, three months ahead, that His children would pray for those things. So, He answered them in advance and the answer came just in time.

• Chɑllenge: "How big is your God?"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, increase my faith."

• Quote: "What a wonderful God!"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: James 5:17, 18; 1 Kings 18:41-45

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
WEDNESDAY, JULY 25, 2018

EXPOSE COVERED SINS
TEXT: PROVERBS 28:13

"He that covereth his sins shall not prosper; but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy" (Proverbs 28:13).

The natural instinct of man after committing sin is to cover it up. From Adam till date no one has ever succeeded in the effort, though. Sin always finds a way to track down the sinner at last. In the meantime, conscience sets about its God-given duty of pestering the offender. Nothing bites harder than a guilty conscience; the pain it gives is unrelenting, impossible to ignore. Consider King David for example. To an onlooker, he seemed to have successfully covered his sin with Bathsheba. But then his offended conscience was constantly troubling him. The king was slowly dying on the inside. David's high throne provided no refuge from an unforgiving adversary. The king was haunted even to his innermost chamber until he came clean and made a full confession unto God.

If you have sinned against God, confess and repent thoroughly. The blood of Jesus covers every confessed sin. God is merciful, He will forgive you. Attempting a cover-up will only make you miserable on earth and in eternity. Your secret sin will be on open display on the great Day of Judgment!

• Chɑllenge: "In vain will you try to hide your sin from God?"

• Prɑyer: "Forgive my sin, O Lord, for it is very great."

• Quote: "The blood of Jesus covers every confessed sin"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Psalm 51:1-17

See more here: