Higher Everydɑy
THURSDAY, JULY 26, 2018

POWER TO THE FAINT
TEXT: ISAIAH 40:19

"He giveth power to the faint; and to them that have no might He increaseth strength" (Isaiah 40:19).

Prophet Elijah took on and defeated 400 prophets of Baal singlehanded in a contest to determine the true God that Israel should worship. Barely 24 hours later, he was so fragile spiritually and mentally that he even wished for death. God fed and comforted Elijah with heavenly food that sustained him through 40 days of vigorous activity. Fainting fits come to all but God. But Each episode of fainting is a reminder to us that we need God's grace and power to conquer the challenges of life.

Reports from different parts of the world reveal a global increase in teenage suicides. Young people without Christ have neither the counsel of God's Word nor the comforting voice of the spirit of God. The pressure of life often drive them to despair or even death. Unfortunately, some Christian youths also succumb to Satan's temptations and harassment; they stop their journey to heaven halfway home. What victory could be theirs if only they would look up to Him who promised, "My grace is sufficient for thee, for my strength is made perfect in (your) weakness."

• Chɑllenge: "Even in my hardest trials, God still reigns"

• Prɑyer: "O Lord, replace my weakness with Your Strength."

• Quote: "Fainting fits come to all but God"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: 2 Corinthians 12:8-10

See more here:

"Reports from different parts of the world reveal a global increase in teenage suicides. Young people without Christ have neither the counsel of God's Word nor the comforting voice of the spirit of God. The pressure of life often drive them to despair or even death."


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-3kHZPjz654

Higher Everydɑy
FRIDAY JULY 27, 2018

IMPENETRABLE WALL
TEXT: JEREMIAH 15:20

"And I will make thee unto this people a fenced brasen wall; and they shall fight against thee, but they shall not prevail against thee; for I am with thee to save thee and to deliver thee; saith the LORD" (Jeremiah 15:20).

Nations spend huge amounts of money to install air defence systems for the protection of their airspace. That is because a single missile penetrating the air shield could prove to be a huge national disaster. In warfare, sometimes it does, causing the nation the loss of many lives. Prophet Jeremiah faced the anger and hatred of his hostile countrymen. He represents today's believer who faces opposition from Satan and his hellish hosts as well as persecution from human enemies of the gospel. God promised Jeremiah protection so solid that no enemy could penetrate.

If only all Christians knew this, the climate of fear that pervades the church today would not exist. The fear of witches, occult and other dark powers has kept many in bondage. They are spiritually paralysed. Others are bound in their minds and bodies by the needless fear of invisible enemies. God's protection promise surpasses the enemy's threat. His, "I am" or "I will" is an impenetrable fortress for His children.

• Chɑllenge: "If God be for us, who can be against us?"

• Prɑyer: "Be Thou my shield from every harm, O Lord."

• Quote: "God's protection promise surpasses the enemy's threats"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: 2 Kings 6:8-17

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SATURDAY, JULY 28, 2018

RIGHTEOUSNESS DELIVERS
TEXT: EZEKIEL 14:14

"Though these three men, Noah, Daniel, and Job, were in it, they should deliver but their own souls by their righteousness, saith the Lord GOD" (Ezekiel 14:14).

Here, God bears witness to three remarkable men. Of great importance was the fact that, of the three, only Daniel was alive at the time of this testing. So, he was a living testimony to the power of righteousness and, he was a youth! Daniel is proof that you can be young and yearning for righteousness, young and yielded to God, praise God!

Through the lions' den and through Nebuchadnezzar's fire, Daniel and his friends proved that righteousness delivers from death. Only Noah and his family survived the flood that destroyed the old world because he alone did God find righteous in his generation. The righteous is never forsaken by God. And when it seemed that Job was abandoned to his troubles God stood up to defend him with twofold wealth and riches. Will you stand up for God? Will you live a courageous, righteous life at school or at home? Will you stand against examination malpractices, cultism, pornography, drug addiction, immorality, even if you have to stand alone? God is still looking for living testimonies to the power of righteousness.

• Chɑllenge: "Will you live a courageous, righteous life?"

• Prɑyer: "Give me grace and courage to live for you, Lord."

• Quote: "The righteous is never forsaken by God"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Proverbs 11:3-8

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SUNDAY 29 JULY, 2018

DAMNATION THROUGH DECEPTION
TEXT: EPHESIANS 5:1-10

"Let no man deceive you with vain words: for because of these things cometh the wrath of God upon the children of disobedience" (Ephesians 5:6).

One powerful tool in the hand of Satan is deception. Through the ages, he has successfully used it to damn many souls in hell. With lies he threw Adam out of fellowship with God and with it he shall rule the world through the Antichrist. There is an invasion of the Christian faith by ministers of Satan who pretend to be angels of light. They preach their soul - damning doctrine of 'once-saved-forever-saved,' they mock holiness and make jest of heaven-minded Christians. Their sermon sells because it is sugar-coated with glamour and showmanship. Youths are particularly attracted to sermons that project liberty without accountability, success without sanctification, blessings without conditions attached and heaven without holiness. Steer clear of deception!

King ahab was deceived into a false sense of security by his hired prophets. They told him what he liked, rather than what he needed to hear. The king died shamefully under the wrath of God. Similar fate awaits all who choose to listen to Satan's lies on matters concerning their soul's welfare. Repent today, deception will not be enough defense on the great day of God's judgment.

• Chɑllenge: "God cannot be fooled"

• Prɑyer: "Deliver me from Satan's deception, Oh God."

• Quote: "Steer clear of deception!"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: 1 Kings 22:6-37

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
MONDAY JULY 30, 2018

YOUR DUTY IN THE LAST DAYS
TEXT: 2 TIMOTHY 4:2

"Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine" (2 Timothy 4:2).

A preacher woke up early one morning to an urge to get out into the woods around his house and preach the gospel there. He obeyed. Getting to the woods he saw no one around but started to preach the gospel of God's grace. "Jesus loves you," he said, "You don't have to die because Jesus died for you." The preacher managed to complete his sermon to "the trees," it seemed then. He gave an altar call and led the sinner's prayer.

The following Sunday morning, a middle-aged man stood up in the preacher's church to testify to the love of God. "I was fed up with my life. I went into the woods resolved to hang myself. I had looped the noose around my neck when suddenly I heard an angel calling me to try Jesus. It must have been an angel because I saw no man and it was too early in the morning for anyone to have seen me enter the woods." It is our duty to rescue the perishing.

• Chɑllenge: "You fail to preach, they fall and perish"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, stir my heart to rescue some soul from hell today."

• Quote: "It is our duty to rescue the perishing"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: 2 Timothy 4:1-5

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
TUESDAY JULY 31, 2018

PAIN OF THE WRONG PLACE
TEXT: 2 PETER 2:8

"For that righteous man dwelling among them, in seeing and hearing, vexed his righteous soul from day to day with their unlawful deeds" (2 Peter 2:8).

Have you read John Bunyan's pilgrim's progress? It's a must-read for every youth. In our text, Lot was in Sodom. What he felt there was what Christian and his companion felt when they suddenly found themselves in the city called vanity Fair. It was a raw combination of shock, pain, grief, and compassion at the level of moral corruption visible among the inhabitants. Can you still be shocked at sinful behaviour? I congratulate you if you still possess the ability to be shocked at the gross sins being committed freely in the society around you. You possess a precious innocence, please retain it.

The true Christian is in the world but not of the world, if you are born again I rejoice with you. But you must brace up because there is battle just ahead. You will soon discover that the ways and choices of society will not help you unto God. On the contrary, peers, tutors, even parents might actively oppose your decision to follow Jesus. The pain of standing alone cannot compare with the pain of a burning hell.

• Chɑllenge: "The worst loneliness takes place in hell"

• Prɑyer: "Keep me right, dear Lord, in this evil world."

• Quote: "Can you still be shocked at sinful behaviour?"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Ezekiel 9:1-6

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 01, 2018

KNOW YOUR SPIRITUAL STATUS
TEXT: JOHN 9:40-41

"And some of the pharisees........said unto him, Are we blind also? Jesus said unto them, if you were blind, you should have no sin: but now you were see; therefore your sin remaineth" (John 9:40,41).

A saying goes, He who knows not and knows that he knows not is a child, teach him. He who knows and knows not that he knows is asleep, wake him. He who knows not and knows not that he knows not is a fool, shun him. He who knows and knows that he knows is wise, follow him. The pharisees were blind to God's offer of grace and forgiveness through faith. They were full of their religious pride. They challenged the Lord Jesus Christ at every turn. They were spiritually blind and, sadly, they were blind to the fact of their blindness. According to the above saying, if they had been merely "a child" or were just "asleep" then they could have been helped. But, no one can help a self-conceit fool!

If you humbly accept your spiritual poverty, you become qualified to enjoy God's abundant riches. When God lifts you up spiritually and you respond with humility and gratitude, He takes you even higher still. Showing yourself to be what you are not will block you from going far with God.

• Chɑllenge: "A broken, contrite heart attracts God"

• Prɑyer: "Deliver me, Lord from pride and self-conceit."

• Quote: "No one can help a self-conceited fool"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Revelation 3:14-19

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
THURSDAY 02, AUGUST 2018

BEING SMITTEN IS NO FUN
TEXT: PSALM 141:5

"Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head" (Psalm 141:5).

Correct is sometimes hard but always necessary when you go wrong. How you react to it proves you to be with wise or foolish. Young people are often opposed to correction; they tend to withdraw from a faithful parent, teacher, pastor or even a friend who points out their misbehaviour. They seek affirmation when they deserve condemnation. That is not a wise thing to do, though it is the more convenient; you must be wise like king David whose submission to prophet Nathan's severe rebuke of his sin saved him from hell.
Earthly discipline is far better than hell damnation.

Earthly rebuke is tough on the flesh but not any way near the misery of eternal suffering. Therefore, a friend, teacher or parent who cannot confront you when you fall short of acceptable behavior is actually your enemy. Correction is like surgical operation, painful and bloody at first but permanently helpful at last. Many patients die in hospitals because they cannot withstand the pain of surgery. Being smitten is no fun, but being damned is not either.

• Chɑllenge: "Why is your best friend your best friend?"

• Prɑyer: "Give me, dear Lord-a right attitude to correction."

• Quote: "Earthly discipline is far better than hell damnation"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: 2 Chronicles 26:16-21

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
FRIDAY, AUGUST 03, 2018

CARING REMOVES CARES
TEXT: GENESIS 18:3-4

"Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head" (Genesis 18:3,4).

We live in a selfish world, most people care about their pleasure and their happiness alone. It's not very often that stories like Abraham's are told in our world today. Through sheer hospitality, Abraham obtained an unexpected solution to a long-standing family problem. He was not looking for reward or compensation, he was just being good. The Same virtue got Rebekah a husband and a place in the Abrahamic covenant. Do you care about others? Do you even notice when a classmate is sad, depressed, lonely or distressed? Oh, what good you may do just then, of only you cared!

Think about Joseph. He was in the gloomiest situation imaginable. He was defamed, his future seemed dark yet he cared enough to help the chief butler and the chief Baker. The care Joseph gave to fellow suffers in the prison eventually got him out of the prison and onto the throne. Refuse the temptation to live for yourself alone. Do something for others. Do it willingly, heartily and cheerfully. Like Abraham, Joseph and Rebekah, you could be sowing the seed for future happiness.

• Chɑllenge: "You can be the salt to sweeten lives."

• Prɑyer: "Lord, help me live daily in a self-forgetful way."

• Quote: "Oh what good you may do, if only you cared"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Hebrews 13:1,2

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SATURDAY, AUGUST 04, 2018

PASSION OF PARENTS (1)
TEXT: LUKE 2:48

"And when they saw him, they were amazed: and his mother said unto him, son, why hast Thou dealt with us? Behold, thy father and I have sought thee sorrowing" (Luke 2:48).

Where is my boy tonight? A hymn writer by Rev. Robert Lowry has a most touching story behind it. A 40 - year old widow, an accomplished vocalist had ceased to sing. Deep sorrow for her boy who had been a runaway for five years had silenced her still, sweet voice. While spending a week with friends in a city distant from home, her hidden talent was betrayed by the friends to the pastor of their church, where a revival was in progress. After long persuasion, she agreed to sing a solo.

The church was crowded. With a force and feeling that can only come from an anguished mother's heart she sang, "where is my boy?" on the second stanza......as the congregation caught up the refrain......a young man who had been sitting in a black seat made his way up the aisle and sobbed, "mother, I'm here!" The embrace of that mother and her long-lost boy turned the service into a general hallelujah. That very night, he repented and gave his life to Christ......

• Chɑllenge: "Think of five ways to say, thank you, mum."

• Prɑyer: "Thank you Lord for my father and mother."

• Quote: "Women are "weak" but mothers are strong"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Luke 2:41-52

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SUNDAY, AUGUST 05, 2018

VANITY OF FACE VARNISHING
TEXT: 2 KINGS 9:30

"And when Jehu was come to Jezreel, Jezebel heard of it; and she painted her face, and tired her head, and looked out at a window" (2 Kings 9:30).

Sitting there at the window, what was going through Jezebel's mind? Definitely, she wanted to impress, to captivate in order to manipulate. Like worldly girls today Jezebel gambled on using her God-given beauty to control and corrupt Jehu, her goal was to disarm, but she was destroyed. Beauty of form and face is God’s gift; but many have turned it into an instrument of seduction and immorality. Enslavement to the cosmetics industry is common to both the old and young. Many have gone from mere makeup to extensive facial alternation through plastic surgery. There seems to be no end to their pursuit of vanity.

In October 2016, a newspaper headline screamed, "deceived by cosmetics." it's the story of a man who divorced his wife after seeing her without makeup for the first time days after their wedding. The bride wore artificial eyelashes and had undergone cosmetic surgery before the marriage. Accusing his bride of deception, the groom said he no longer recognized her after her makeup washed off during a swim in the sea on honeymoon. Vanity it is! Strive towards inner beauty.

• Chɑllenge: "It's a hard thing to live up a lie."

• Prɑyer: "Help me trust in you alone, O Lord."

• Quote: "Strive towards inner beauty"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Jeremiah 4:27-31

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
MONDAY, AUGUST 6, 2018

MAKING GODLY MUSIC
TEXT: Psalm 98:4-5

"Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all the earth: make a loud noise, and rejoice, and sing praise. Sing unto the LORD with the harp...and the voice of a psalm" (Psalm 98:4, 5).

Music is powerful, no doubt. It is easy to understand why music artistes all over the world enjoy music cult followings, especially among the youths. In most instances, the fact that the lyrics are obscene and the video shoots are lewd does not matter. Ungodly music corrupts the mind, debases the body and kills the spirit. Music that promotes immorality, dishonesty, idolatry, has no place in a true child of God. You must be careful what music you make or hear.

Music that flows from a heart cleansed from sin and indwelt by the Spirit of God joins man to God in blissful worship. It promotes holiness. It proceeds from God and leads on to God. Such music cured King Saul's madness and inspired Prophet Elisha's prophecy. Godly music enhances worship; it prepares the heart to receive divine revelations.

• Chɑllenge: "Godly music promotes holiness."

• Prɑyer: "Lord, I dedicate my musical talent to you alone."

• Quote: "Strive towards inner beauty"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: 2 Kings 3: 14-20

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
TUESDAY, AUGUST 07, 2018

PRAISE AFTER TRIUMPH
TEXT: EXODUS 15:21

"And Miriam answered them, sing you to the LORD, for he hath triumphed gloriously; the horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea" (Exodus 15:21).

A youth passes an examination, wins a scholarship or secures an important college admission, and who gets the glory? One friend says to him, congratulations! Another says, praise the Lord, and congratulations! One gives the kudos to the achiever while the other wisely acknowledges the Giver of success first. Grateful hearts attract divine attention. Praising God when we have scored a victory is a positive display of humility and dependence on God. Unfortunately, some Christian youths demonstrate ingratitude; they take the care of parents, tutors and friends for granted. This negative attitude of the last days is unbecoming of a disciple of Christ.

The gift of eternal life is enough reason for a believer to praise the Lord. Murmuring is natural to fallen man but gratitude for small mercies has to be learned. A timely 'Thank you' fills your tank of blessings with more from God. Praise to God can take the form of private prayer, singing, and open testimony in the assembly of Saints Learn an attitude of gratitude; God is well pleased with it.

• Chɑllenge: "When you succeed, who gets the glory?"

• Prɑyer: "I want to thank You, Lord for countless blessings."

• Quote: "Learn an attitude of gratitude"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Psalm 136:1-26

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 08, 2018

RESTORATION TIME
TEXT: JOEL 2:5

"And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpillar, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you" (Joel 2:5).

God is both slow to anger and eager to forgive. The doctrine of 'once-saved-forever-saved' is as rampant as it is false. Don't be deceived, sin brings punishment. When Israel persisted in rebellion, God left them to the devastation of invading armies. Like locusts they put the land to waste for seventy years. Then God raised up earnest men like Daniel, Ezra and Nehemiah. These brought the nation back to God by fervent prayer and fiery preaching. Israel's national repentance resulted in national restoration. Personal repentance brings personal restoration. Family repentance results in family restoration.

To every truly repentant soul God brings a time of refreshing. "He looketh upon men, and if any say, I have sinned........ He will deliver his soul from going into the pit, and his life shall see the light" (Job 33:27, 28). There is no promise to the stubborn sinner, only punishment. King David testified that while he held back his tongue from confession of sin, his "bones waxed old through (my) roaring all the day long". Guilt is destructive but repentance heals. If you need to repent, do it now.

• Chɑllenge: "No repentance, no refreshing"

• Prɑyer: "Lord, I repent; please bring refreshing."

• Quote: "God is slow to anger and eager to forgive"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Psalm 32:1-11

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
THURSDAY AUGUST 09, 2018

WAIT AND SEE WHO WINS
TEXT: EXODUS 5:2

"And pharaoh said, who is the LORD, that I should obey his voice to let Israel go? I know not the LORD, neither will I let Israel go" (Exodus 5:2).

Pharaoh held the power of life and death over a vast empire. The Bible says, "The wrath of a king is as messengers of death." But, what shall be said about the wrath of the king of Kings? Pharaoh spoke in anger to Moses; he ranted and raved like a mad man. But, to the Almighty God it was the ranting of an ant. Pharaoh had declared war against God.

God gave pharaoh ample space for repentance. Sadly, he exhausted God's patience and perished with his army. An atheist gave a speech challenging the existence of God. "God!" he shouted, "If you exist, strike me dead now as I shoot you in the face!" Then he pulled out his pistol and shot in the air. Nothing happened. Closing his speech with a flourish, he rushed to the train station. He had arrived late and the train was starting to slowly pull away from the platform. While attempting to jump on, the atheist missed his step and fell under the train which severed his two legs neatly above the knees. He got his answer from God, didn't he?

• Chɑllenge: "Who hardens himself against God and prospers?"

• Prɑyer: "I surrender Lord, I will not resist your will."

• Quote: "God is slow to anger and eager to forgive"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Daniel 3:13-30

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
FRIDAY, AUGUST 10, 2018

SEEK HEALING AND SALVATION
TEXT: JEREMIAH 17:14

"Heal me, O LORD, and I shall be healed; save me, and I shall be saved: for thou art my praise" (Jeremiah 17:14).

Sin and sickness are two faces of the same coin; likewise, salvation and healing. Passengers in an airplane have complimentary services like good meal, entertainment and even toilet facilities. All these were paid for along with the air fare. Sickness is complimentary to sin as healing and health are to salvation. Sickness and death were unknown to man until sin and disobedience entered. Affliction, sickness and death are the currency Satan pays those who serve with him. As the Bible says, "The wages of sin is death," and "The way of the transgressor is hard".

Repentance and righteousness, on the other hand, result in divine favour. God has promised deliverance, healing and freedom to those who love Him. Will you be free from the bondage of sickness? Seek the Lord Jesus and His grace. A wise man buys a hen that he may have a regular supply of eggs rather than buying eggs only. Healing is in the atonement. Christ the Saviour is also the Great Physician; when you receive Him by repentance and faith you receive everything He offers.

• Chɑllenge: "Have you counted the cost of a sinful life?"

• Prɑyer: "Forgive my sins, Oh Lord, and heal me."

• Quote: "Christ the Saviour is also the Great Physician"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Mark 2:5-12

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SATURDAY AUGUST 11, 2018

HE HEARS YOU CLEARLY
TEXT: PSALM 145:1-21

"The LORD is nigh unto all them that call upon Him, to all that call upon Him in truth. He will fulfill the desire of them that fear Him: He also will hear their cry, and will save them" (Psalm 145:18,19).

People have called upon God and been delivered from the most unlikely places. Jonah was a prodigal prophet, yet, but God heard and delivered him from the whale's belly. To Jeremiah shut up in the prison dungeon, God said, "Ask of me and I will answer thee." God heard and delivered Daniel from the lion's den, Paul and Silas from Herod's prison and the three Hebrew young men from Nebuchadnezzar's fire. For every child of God, their earthly whisper is heaven's shout.

Even in your youth you may have felt like King Hezekiah. Facing a personal crisis, the godly king complained unto God, "I shall not see the LORD, even the LORD, in the land of the living: I shall behold man no more with the inhabitants of the world." but, just then, God was near to him. His tear-soaked words were more of complaint than supplication yet God answered immediately, and spectacularly too! So, do not despair if you face difficult situations. God hears you clearly even if, like Hannah, your prayers are bathed in sobs. A joyful answer is on the way.

• Chɑllenge: "Earth has no burden that heaven cannot lift."

• Prɑyer: "When I call, O Lord, answer me speedily."

• Quote: "Earth's whisper is heaven's shout."

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: 2 Kings 20:4-6

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
SUNDAY, AUGUST 12, 2018

PASSION OF PARENTS (2)
TEXT: PSALM 144:11

"Rid me, and deliver me from the hand of strange children, whose mouth speaketh vanity, and their right hand is a right hand of falsehood" (Psalm 144:11).

Today, we consider a parent's prayer. King David was father in his own family, he was also father over the nation of Israel. Either way, his prayer was most appropriate; it's even a prayer most suited to this day and age. David had several sons and subjects many of whom were really "strange." Absalom, Amnon, Adonijah were all David's children but they were also the sad causes of his many troubles. Then there were Ahithophel, Joab, Abiathar - all loyal subjects who turned out to be wicked, "strange" characters in the end. These people were Israelites in name but not in nature.

Let me ask you: if you were to accidentally catch your parents praying for you, what would their petition sound like? Would they be thanking God for your righteous character, obedient heart, focused life and successful achievement? Or would they be mourning your criminal behaviour, your aimless lifestyle? Every parent loves success with a passion. Godly parents love to have godly children; they know that what will matter in the end is how you stand with God. Repent today!

• Chɑllenge: "The father of a fool has no joy."

• Prɑyer: "Oh God, make me a source of joy to my parents."

• Quote: "Godly parents love to have godly children"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Proverbs 23:15-25

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
MONDAY AUGUST 13, 2018

PASSION OF PARENTS (3)
TEXT: PSALM 147:12

"That our sons may be as plants grown up in their youth; that our daughters may be as corner stones, polished after the similitude of a palace" (Psalm 147:12).

No description of the boy-child and the girl-child in any writing anywhere on earth surpasses what we have here. Sons grown up tall, healthy, vigorous and in full bloom like well-watered plants. And the girls with polished, graceful personalities, possessing both inner strength and outer beauty. What a picture! This was a father's passion and prayer.

David lends us a window into every parent's heart. Dear youth, your parents are driven by a passion to see you attain your highest potentials in life. Will you let them down? They have an abiding faith in your moral and academic success. And if their passion is backed up by prayer power. How fortunate you are! And your role in becoming the brilliant boy or the gifted girl of your parents' dreams? You must lay a foundation of repentance, lean by faith on the Redeemer, love friends that are righteous, launch with fervency into every hard responsibility, learn the fundamentals of reading, labour hard to be at the front of the race, look into the future with rejoicing and, listen to the heavenly Father's guide. God bless you.

• Chɑllenge: "Success comes only to the hardworking."

• Prɑyer: "Make my life beautiful for you, O Lord."

• Quote: "Look into the future with rejoicing"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Daniel 1:17-20

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
TUESDAY, AUGUST 14, 2018

HE FELL, THOUGH FAMOUS
TEXT: 2 CHRONICLES 9:22-23

"And King Solomon passed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom. And all the kings of the earth sought the presence of Solomon, to hear his wisdom, that God had put in his heart" (2 Chronicles 9:22-23).

Satan is no respecter of talents or titles, king Solomon should have known that. He was famous for his wisdom, riches, and royal heritage. But, it seems, Satan longs for the big fishes; the bigger they come the more motivated he is to cut them down. Solomon's success therefore made him Satan's prime target. There is a complete set of peculiar temptations for the successful — pride, self-satisfaction and seductive women. King Solomon himself had prayed against those. He said, "Give me neither poverty nor riches; feed me with food convenient for me; lest I be full, and deny thee, and say, who is the LORD?" Prayer however is one half of Christ's recommended strategy for overcoming temptations. Watchfulness is the other half and in that Solomon failed, and fell.

Success is more difficult to handle than failure. It excites, intoxicates and drives one up to the giddy heights from which it is so easy to fail. So, dear youth of God, beware of the error of Solomon. When God gives you success, rely on His power to keep you from falling. Amen.

• Chɑllenge: "To the careless, success goes before a fall."

• Prɑyer: "Teach me humility and dependence on you, Oh God."

• Quote: "Satan is no respecter of talents or titles"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: 2 Chronicles 16:15-21

See more here:

Higher Everydɑy
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 15, 2018

GOD'S WAYS AND ACTS
TEXT: PSALM 103:1-22

"He made known His ways unto Moses, His acts unto the children of Israel" (Psalm 103:7).

Kindergarten lessons are taught in pictures and concrete images but college lessons in abstract words and concepts. The children of Israel were in the kindergarten of faith therefore God demonstrated His mighty acts right before their eyes. Moses, on the other hand, was in the university of faith, he lived and thrived on God's declared precepts and promise. Moses succeeded on the strength of God's faithfulness. It is a joy for a child to begin kindergarten class but a tragedy if he stays in year after year. Such is the perpetual childhood of the believer; one who grows old without growing up.

This is a generation of sign-seekers, immature believers cannot obey, love, and serve God until they witness some spectacular, earth-shaking display of the supernatural. They seem to say unto God, "Shew the things that are to come hereafter, That we may know that ye are gods; yea, do good, or do evil, that we may be dismayed, and behold it together" (Isaiah 41:23). God delights in strong believers who understand His Ways and Walk with Him by faith.

• Chɑllenge: "Refuse to be a perpetual child, spiritually."

• Prɑyer: "Lord, increase my faith and faithfulness."

• Quote: "This is a generation of sign-seekers"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: EXODUS 14:10-14

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Higher Everydɑy
THURSDAY, AUGUST 16, 2018

LIGHT IN DARKNESS
TEXT: PSALM 112:4

"Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: He is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous" (Psalm 112:4).

The nature of warfare was changed forever when the night vision goggle was invented. It enables the soldier to see clearly in the dark while the enemy is paralysed by darkness. A greater miracle of "light in the darkness" is recorded in Exodus. Pharaoh had been pursuing the Israelites, his slaves of 400 years, now fleeing. A brutal massacre was almost certain but, just then, God intervened. He placed a pillar of cloud between the advancing army of Egypt and the terrified Israelites. The pillar was "a cloud and darkness" to the Egyptians but "it gave light by night" to the Israelites. Thus, Egypt's advance was halted and Israel's progress was hastened.

Prophet Balaam tells us the secret behind that miraculous deliverance: "He hath not beheld iniquity in Jacob, neither hath he seen perverseness in Israel: the LORD his God is with him" (Numbers 23:21). With God, you live in perpetual light. God's eyes are so pure that they cannot tolerate iniquity. His eyes are so piercing that they can see through darkness.

• Chɑllenge: "A righteous life is an unending profit."

• Prɑyer: "Dear Father, I turn my back on sin and darkness."

• Quote: "With God, you live in perpetual light"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Exodus 14:19-20

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Higher Everydɑy
FRIDAY AUGUST 17,2018

BELIEVING FOR OTHERS
TEXT: MATTHEW 8:1-13

"And Jesus said unto the centurion, Go thy way; and as thou hast believed, so be it done unto thee. And his servant was healed in the selfsame hour" (Matthew 8:13).

Besides the fact that it is powerful and dynamic, faith has an added beauty. It can be credited to another person's account. Mobile phone service providers permit one customer to buy airtime and transfer credit to another customer. It's a win-win-win situation, the service provider gains revenue, the first customer gains goodwill and the second customer gains airtime.

In our text today, a master seeks to Jesus for the healing of his servant. First, he demonstrated faith as a Christian virtue in seeking help for another person, a subordinate. This is the fruit of faith. Then, he confessed faith as a dynamic power. This is the seed of faith. Finally, Christ responded to him with a display of the gift of faith: "Go......and as thou hast believed, so be it done."

Conversion is the pathway to possessing the fruit of faith. Meditating on God's Word produces the seed of faith. Keep on using your faith on smaller problems and one day, you will grow into manifesting the gift of faith. First, repent of sin. Then start believing God for miracles for others.

• Chɑllenge: "Believing for others is loving and caring."

• Prɑyer: "Teach me selfless faith, Lord, in Jesus name."

• Quote: "Selfless faith is a win-win situation"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Matthew 15:22-29

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Higher Everydɑy
SATURDAY AUGUST 18, 2018

SLEEP IS SWEET
TEXT: PSALM 3:5

"I laid down and slept; I awaked; for the LORD sustained me" (Psalm 3:5).

Sleep is a most wonderful gift God has given to man. A restful sleep after a full day's labour resets the body system. It renews and provides a fresh burst of resources to face the challenges of a new day. "The sleep of a labouring man is sweet, whether he eat little or much" (Ecclesiastes 5:12). A writer said, "it is a common experience that a problem difficult at night is resolved in the morning after the committee of sleep has worked on it".

The Scriptures warn, however, against the sleep of a sluggard who is all sleep and no work (Proverbs 19:15). The sluggard sleeps until his homework is overdue, his house chores undone, his academic progress is retarded and, his personal usefulness is lost. His sleep results in more and more poverty rather than more productivity. Secondly, there is the sleep of the spiritually careless (Matthew 13:34, 35). This is a Christian who is unaware of Satan's activities in his life until all the grace of God in his life is taken away and replaces virtue.

• Chɑllenge: "God's order is, hard work first then restful sleep."

• Prɑyer: "Teach me, Lord, to sleep for profit and productivity."

• Quote: "The sluggard is all sleep and no work"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: JOHN 11:11-13

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Higher Everydɑy
SUNDAY, AUGUST 19, 2018

THE BEGINNING AND THE ENDING
TEXT: ECCLESIASTES 7:8

"Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit" (Ecclesiastes 7:8).

The above saying is true in many spheres of life. Beginning well is very good but ending well is true in your academics, athletics, your spiritual journey and, most certainly, in your entire life. The hope born when you begin a new project turns to fulfillment and satisfaction only when you complete it. There are youths whose young lives are littered already with a series of abandoned projects. It is sad, but true. May you not be one of such, in Jesus' name.

The Lord Jesus gave a parable of a man who began to build a house but was not able to finish. He did not count the cost beforehand. Perhaps you, like many youths, tend to be emotional and unpredictable; full of energy now, losing steam later, you are headed in the direction of permanent failure unless you make a turnaround. Do it today. Set a goal and keep it alive. Focus on the desired ending right from the starting point. You have started well, with prayer, faith and hard work now resolve to finish well.

• Chɑllenge: "Success is determined at the finish line."

• Prɑyer: "Lord, let my ending be better than my beginning."

• Quote: "You have started......resolve to finish well"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: LUKE 14:28-33

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Higher Everydɑy
MONDAY, AUGUST 20, 2018

EXCELLENCE
TEXT: DANIEL 6:3

"Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent Spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm" (Daniel 6:3).

Daniel, who was reputed for righteous living, determined never to eat Nebuchadnezzar's appetizing delicacies: he had an excellent Spirit in him. He distinguished himself in whatever he did which attracted the king's attention. This supports the assertion made by David Starr Jordan that, "There is no real excellence in all this world which can be separated from right living." Holy lifestyle endears one to God's heart thereby paving way for one to dine with the high and mighty. To excel in one's endeavours one must have a closer walk with God. Righteous living makes a positive way for all those who practise it.

Hard work is a pivot to spiritual and academic excellence. To make a mark in your chosen profession or career, you must be someone with purpose. Diligence is the keyword. Remember Dr. Ben Carson's words, "Students who excel academically, read extensively." To carve a niche for yourself in academic endeavor, you must be a voracious reader. Daily Christian living will pave the way for you to ascend to the zenith of your career.

• Chɑllenge: "Jesus makes the difference."

• Prɑyer: "Lord, let me have all round excellence in Jesus' name."

• Quote: "Diligence is the key word"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Daniel 1:17-20; Genesis 41:37-41

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Higher Everydɑy
TUESDAY, AUGUST 21, 2018

VICTORY THROUGH FAITH
TEXT: 1 JOHN 5:4

"For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith" (1 John 5:4).

Everyone born of a woman fights battles every day of his or her life. These battles originate from within and without. It may be in one's mind with doubts, fears, bitterness; or they may be physical battles with violent people, sickness and disease. The battle may even be with pressure due to lack of money for school fees and relevant textbooks. Through faith in the Lord, Jesus Christ, one can have victory over the lust of the flesh, lust of the eyes and pride of life. You can win the battle in your mind, body, finances and relationship if you have faith in the Lord Jesus. The contrary will be the case if you allow the pollution of this world to corrupt you. Charles G. Finney declared that "When a man has overcome the world his thoughts are no longer engrossed and swallowed up with worldly things.

A man definitely does not overcome the world unless he gets above being engrossed and absorbed with its concerns." You can win in the battle of life with Jesus as your Lord and Saviour.

• Chɑllenge: "With Jesus you can win in the battle of life."

• Prɑyer: "Oh Lord, increase my faith to be victorious in life."

• Quote: "You can win in the battle of life with Jesus"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: John 16:33; 1 John 4:4

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Higher Everydɑy
WEDNESDAY AUGUST 22, 2018.

BE STILL
TEXT: PSALM 46:10

"Be still, and know that I am God: I will be exalted among the heathen, I will be exalted in the earth" (Psalms 46:10).

The word "Still" is a translation of the Hebrew word rapa, meaning "to slacken, letdown, or cease." Christians often interpret the command "be still" as "to be quiet in God's presence." Jackie Trottmann puts it this way, "the next time you have fearful and anxious thoughts that are raging within you like a violet storm, do as Jesus did. Silence those thoughts by saying "peace be still." When you need strength and help, let go and rest in God, your refuge. Every time a trial comes to you, or you face difficulties in your studies that seem as if you are on a ship being tossed upon a stormy sea, be still and let God take control.

Most times we ask God for everything but we don't pause to listen or be still. God expects us to be still so that we can appropriate love, peace and guidance. Learn to tell your fearful and anxious thoughts to shut up, just as Jesus calmed the sea. To master the act of being still, you must be born again to receive this grace of God.

• Chɑllenge: "Be still and know that God is still on the throne."

• Prɑyer: "Father, stop the raging storm in my life in Jesus name."

• Quote: "Be still and let God take control"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Hebrews 2:20; Mark 4:39; Zechariah 2:13

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Higher Everydɑy
THURSDAY AUGUST 23, 2018.

MY FIXED HEART
TEXT: PSALMS 57:1-11

"My heart is fixed, O God my heart is fixed: I will sing and give praise" (Psalms 57:7).

Alexander Maclaren opined that "The fixed heart is resolved to 'sing and give praise' in spite of everything that might make sobs and tears choke the song." As a good soldier of Jesus Christ, you ought to cling to the cross till the very end, without giving heed to any distraction that may come your way. Whatever situation in which you find yourself in your pilgrimage to heaven, make up your mind to hold on to the end. Burn every bridge behind in order to focus on the task ahead of you in the Kingdom. Watch and pray! Preach the Word of God to all and sundry as you lay hold on eternal life. Let your confession in all circumstances be, "Others may give up following the Lord but I cannot."

If you want to go far in your Christian journey, you must constantly follow the Lord without looking back. Make up your mind to do the right at all times. "sing when your trials are greatest, trust in the Lord and take heart," said a songwriter.

• Chɑllenge: "Sing when your trials are greatest."

• Prɑyer: "Lord, Jesus, help me to hold on till the end."

• Quote: "Constantly follow the Lord without looking back"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: Psalm 108:1; 112:7; Ephesians 5:20

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RVu_PITvh4k

Higher Everydɑy
FRIDAY, AUGUST 24, 2018.

THE JUST JOSEPH
TEXT: PSALMS 57:1-11

"Then Joseph her husband, being a just man, and not willing to make her a public example, was minded to put her away privily" (Matthew 1:19).

Joseph, Mary's husband, foster father of Jesus Christ was a just man. He is the only person mentioned in Matthew's gospel in connection with the Saviour's birth. His spiritual life marks him out. Though, a common carpenter in Nazareth, he exhibited the fear of God, and was used to fulfill the divine plan for the redemption of humanity. He was faithful to carry out God's plans, in relation to Mary.

In today's text, Joseph was a child of God; called by the Lord to fulfill a purpose for the world. Christian youth are also chosen to change the world by living a just and holy life. Resolve to live a just and useful life to accomplish this goal. It is by faith. Remember, the just shall live by faith in God. Make up your mind to help save sinners by preaching and by godly example. Personal life counts a lot both now and in eternity. A just life pays.

• Chɑllenge: "Call to change the world by holy living."

• Prɑyer: "Lord, help me to live for you daily."

• Quote: "Resolve to live a just and useful life"

• Bible Reɑding in one Yeɑr: 1 Thessalonian 2:10-13.

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