Higher Everyday
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 26, 2017

THINK OUT OF THE BOX
TEXT: 1 KINGS 3:24-25

"And the king said, Bring me a sword. And they brought a sword before the king. And the king said, Divide the living child in two, and give half to the one, and half to the other" (1 Kings 3:24-25).

To think out of the box is a metaphor which means to think differently, unconventionally or form a new idea. King Solomon's classical judgment in today's text is a mark of divine wisdom. His approach was different from the usual ways of doing things. He was to determine who the real mother of the living or dead child was. There were no reference books on similar cases to consult. No internet to surf. The Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) of modern medicine was not in existence. Yet as a king saddled with the responsibility of fare judgment for all, he was expected to solve the problem.

When challenges arise and you don't know what to do, go to God in prayers and ask for the best approach to solving the problem. Never rely on your past experience or how others solved similar problems. God created you with an in-built capacity and ability to think through and solve problems. Use your gift relying on God for guidance (see James 1:5). You are what and how you think!

• Challenge: "Solve problems with new and creative solutions"

• Prayer: "Grant me the ability for creative thinking, O God."

• Quote: "Use your gifts, relying on God for guidance"

• Bible Reading in one Year: James 1:5, 6

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Higher Everyday
MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27, 2017

HUNT FOR HARVESTERS
TEXT: MATTHEW 9:37

"Then saith he unto his disciples, The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few; Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest" (Matthew 9:37).

In agriculture there are various machines used for harvesting crops. One of such is called combine harvester. This machine reaps, threshes and cleans a cereal crop in one operation. During harvests, farmers engage many labourers because of a lot of work to be done. They also work with those who are competent to avoid loses. Human harvesters and labourers are needed in God's harvest field. The world is that field. Many souls are ripe for harvest, they perish if nobody reaches them with the gospel. "Not to preach the gospel means that we hide the medicine from the patient," said Reinhard Bonnke. God needs labourers to work with Him to bring in the ripened harvest (John 9:35).

The opportunity to harvest souls is always there. In your school, home and neighbourhood, you can share the gospel through text messages and Whatsapp etc. Do not be idle. Never procrastinate! Arise and share the good news today. God will reward all faithful harvesters.

• Challenge: "Who have you led to Christ?"

• Prayer: "Make me a useful instrument in your vineyard, O God."

• Quote: "God will reward all faithful harvesters"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Mark 16:15, 16

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Higher Everyday
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 28, 2017

CANDIDATES FOR GOD'S KINGDOM
TEXT: MATTHEW 7:21

"Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven: but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven" (Matthew 7:21).

A person who seeks to be a student of an institution of higher learning must fulfill certain conditions. It is expected that candidates seeking admission into a university, must have credit passes at the ordinary level in a number of school subjects, such as Mathematics. Jesus Christ the Son of God reveals that candidates for the kingdom of God must fulfill some conditions. Religious activities like calling Christ, Lord, regular attendance at church service etc. without genuine experience of salvation would not qualify a person for God's kingdom. According to C. H. Spurgeon, "The most important question concerning any man living is this: Is he a saved soul or not? Is he a child of God or an heir of wrath?"

The Lord expects all who seek to be candidates for His kingdom to: (1) Recognize they are sinners and cannot save themselves (2) Receive Him by faith into their hearts as Lord and Saviour and (3) Remain in daily victory over sin. Until you do these, you are not yet a candidate for God's Kingdom. Surely, surely: you must be born again?

• Challenge: "Accept Christ's salvation and become a candidate today!"

• Prayer: "Oh God, keep me clean for your kingdom in Jesus' name."

• Quote: "Surely, surely: you must be born again"

• Bible Reading in one Year: John 3:1 - 3

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Higher Everyday
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2017

PRAYER SOLVES PROBLEMS
TEXT: JAMES 5:13

"Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms" (James 5:13).

Prayer is expressing our wish or desires to a loving and willing God. The Bible encourages all people to pray. From our text prayer should be made at all times. In times of danger, difficulties, sicknesses and any kind of challenge you may face, you should pray. A man of God stated that, "Nothing lies beyond the reach of prayer except that which lies outside the will of God." You should also express appreciation or thanks to God when your needs are met, or anytime you receive blessings from Him.

In 1985, during a crusade organized by the Deeper Life Bible Church at the National Stadium in Lagos, a boy born without bones in his leg was brought in by his mother. That was indeed a big problem. Obviously medical science had no solution to that; but as prayer ministration was made, bones were formed in the leg instantaneously. What an amazing miracle! You can solve all problems through prayers to God if really you are His child (Mark 11:20-3; John14:13).

• Challenge: "Whenever you pray believe that God answers!"

• Prayer: "Heal me O God, of all diseases in Jesus' name."

• Quote: "Solve all problems through prayers"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Psalm 103:1-4

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brocab:


"Cremated" My parents had left me with memories, It makes no difference to those who are gone and buried without knowing the Lord, if you choose to respect the dead, what do you expect the dead to do for you?
I choose not to respect the Spirituality dead, I choose to respect the Spirituality living in Christ.
So what is my story telling you, Spirituality thinking let the dead, bury the dead.
{Revelation 14:13} And I heard a voice from heaven saying blessed are the dead, who die in the Lord from now on, Blessed indeed says the Spirit, that they may rest from their labours for their deeds followed them..{Revelation tells us blessed are the dead who are in Christ}
People come and go, now it's our turn to continual living, to the living we owe respect, but to the dead we owe only the truth.
{Philippians 1:3} I thank my God in all my remembrance of you.
{I am left with memories, that my parents had once lived.}

"Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase" (Proverbs 3:9).

I can now see why you are against the giving of tithes, it's because you did not honour your parents even after they died. The 5th commandment is the only one that comes with a promise. Do you know what it is?

QLAADEGBU isn't one person but many, this sounds like I am dealing with {Matthew 12:43-44} once one spirit comes out of a person it go's through dry places seeking rest and does not find it. And later he returns.
How many QLAADEGBU is there, since I have spoken to many legions of spiritual differences.
"You actually believe by honoring your parents, it had led you to tithe? Why would your parents sin against God-your parents didn't lead you to tithe, this is your own choice to follow after the unbiblical tithing system.
And what way do you believe I am not honoring my parents, is it not good enough for you for me to have some sort of remembrance of them?
THOU SHALT HONOR FATHER AND MOTHER!
"Is this scripture to do with the living or is it to do with the dead, or both?
The fifth commandment.
Do you know Paul also explains, “Fathers, do not provoke your children to anger, but bring them up in the discipline and instruction of the Lord” {Eph 6:4}
Parents are given to children for their instruction and protection, particularly to train them in the commandments of God (Deut. 6:7).
It is wise to listen to parents’ good counsel for our own well-being {Prov. 1:8}
Does this mean because I listen to my parents, is it a sin, because my parents, nor did I know the Lord?
"Honour your father and mother" (this is the first commandment with a promise), "that it may go well with you and that you may live long in the land." (Ephesians 6:1–2, ESV. See also Colossians 3:20)
Living in Christ we live a long life, not living in Christ-we are already dead.
In his letters to the Romans and Timothy, Paul describes disobedience to parents as a serious sin (Romans 1:29–31, 2 Timothy 3:2).
"In those days they were stoned to death
For God commanded, saying, ‘Honor your father and your mother’; and, ‘He who curses father or mother, let him be put to death.
The words of Jesus and the teaching of Paul indicate that adult children remain obligated to honour their parents by providing for material needs.
According to the gospel of Matthew, the obligation to honour one's parents is bounded by one's obligation to God: "Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me." (Matthew 10:37 ESV)
In the gospels, Jesus is portrayed as angry with some people who avoided materially providing for their parents by claiming the money they would have used, was given to God by traditions such as tithes. (Matthew 15:3–8, Mark 7:9–12}
In these passages, Jesus quotes {Isaiah 29:13} According to the Gospel of John, when Jesus was on the cross, he provided for his natural mother by giving the Apostle John the charge to care for her, which John accepted.
Would you do the same for your parents? Did I not do the same, My flesh honored my parents until they died, I cremated them, respected them, and loved them, and later I found I am honoring the living Christ.

OLAADEGBU:


"Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase" (Proverbs 3:9).

I can now see why you are against the giving of tithes, it's because you did not honour your parents even after they died. The 5th commandment is the only one that comes with a promise. Do you know what it is?

Higher Everyday
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 30, 2017

PRAYER SOLVES PROBLEMS
TEXT: JOHN 14.2

"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" (John 14:2).

I am going to that country which I have all my life wished to see." These were the final words of William Blake before he closed his eyes in death in 1850. Many people live today as if everything begins and ends here on earth. They forget that they are meant to be pilgrims and strangers in this world that is reserved for destruction. Jesus has gone to prepare a place called Heaven for those who love Him. It is a better country. Those that can be part of this place that Jesus is preparing must have given their lives to Him and made Him Lord and Saviour of their lives.

You must therefore live with the consciousness of eternity with God at all times because earthly comfort is ephemeral. At death, financial and material wealth acquired, are left behind. So are academic certificates, sports medals, and other awards. Indeed, earthly positions and fame have no place beyond the grave. Give your life to Christ and live by God's word if you want to live eternally with God in bliss.

• Challenge: "Look beyond worldly pleasure!"

• Prayer: "Oh my God, help me to be conscious of heaven."

• Quote: "Earthly comfort is ephemeral"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Hebrews 11:8-10

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Higher Everyday
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 1, 2017

MULTIPLE STREAMS OF INCOME
TEXT: PROVERBS 31:13,16

"She seeketh wool and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands. She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard" (Proverbs 31:13,16).

Leroy Hood counsels thus: "Don't underestimate the power of your vision to change the world. Whether that world is your office, your community, an industry or a global movement, you need to have a core belief that what you contribute can fundamentally change the paradigm or way of thinking about problems." We are in an age where entrepreneurial skills cannot be over emphasised. Apart from formal education, the winning youth must have some skills which can be used to generate income. Paul, the apostle, was a tent maker in spite of his tight ministerial commitments.

The virtuous woman in our text was industrious and prudent in all her ways. You too can be if only you make up your mind to develop your skills. Prayerfully locate what you can do to generate income today. God will surely direct you but make sure you're in a good relationship with Him.

• Challenge: "Be industrious"

• Prayer: "Lord, help me to stir up my talents for higher benefits."

• Quote: "God will surely direct you"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Proverbs 31.14-19

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Higher Everyday
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2017

GOD CAN FIX IT
TEXT: JEREMIAH 32:27

"Behold I am the LORD God of all flesh; is there anything too hard for me?" (Jeremiah 32:27).

"You can't analyze God. He is too awesome, too big, too mysterious," writes C.S. Lewis. God is an awesome God and His ways are just beyond human comprehension. The things that seem impossible to man are very easy for God to fix.

He gave us that assurance in our text, stressing that there is nothing too hard for Him to do. This why a song writer boldly declared: "I've got confidence, my God is gonna see me through, No matter what it seems to be, My God is gonna fix it for me." With this kind of assurance given to us by God, we should confidently approach Him for help.

God can fix the problem of sin in the vilest sinner who confesses his or her sins and is ready to forsake them. Sickness, academic failure, poverty etc. can all be brought to their knees if you trust God who can fix all things. Our God works and no man can stop Him. Connect with God today to have solutions to all your problems.

• Challenge: "Connect with God"

• Prayer: "Lord, help me to have confidence in you, in Jesus' name."

• Quote: "Our God works and no man can stop Him"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Luke 1.30-35

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Higher Everyday
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 3, 2017

RELY ON GOD AS YOUR SOURCE
TEXT: PHILIPPIANS 4:19

"But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus" (Philippians 4:19).

Dwight L. Moody says, "A rule I have had for years is: to treat the Lord Jesus Christ as a personal friend. His is not a creed, a mere doctrine, but it is He Himself we have." If everybody can believe on the Lord Jesus so entirely and passionately like D.L Moody, you can't imagine how blissful and stress free life would be.

Jesus is a Gift given to us by God and the more we appreciate this Gift, the more we benefit from Him. He who provided money from the mouth of a fish and multiplied bread and fish to feed thousands of people, is still the same today. All needs have been supplied to us by Christ on the Cross of Calvary. Our needs are many sided and differ from one individual to another.

Fortunately, Jesus has the potentials to meet all needs. You need to claim your blessings through faith. However, the greatest of all these blessings is the salvation of your soul. This is what gives you a blissful eternal life after the life on earth is done. Have you considered that?

• Challenge: "Jesus is a gift given to us by God"

• Prayer: "O God, supply my needs through Christ."

• Quote: "All needs have been supplied to us by Christ"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Philippians 4.6-7, 19

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Higher Everyday
MONDAY, DECEMBER 4, 2017

CONFESSION OF THE COURAGEOUS
TEXT: DANIEL 3:17

"If it be so our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace, and He will deliver us out of thine hand, O king" (Daniel 3:17).

"It is often so with us; when the winds are out and the storms are raging there is plenty of fear, but there is no danger. We may be much tossed, but we are quite safe, for we have an anchor of the soul both sure and steadfast..." Spurgeon, a great revivalist of his time, in this quote submits that the Christian race comes with challenges. If we stand firm, the same God who rescued these three Hebrew men from the hand of the blood thirsty and arrogant King Nebuchadnezzar will also rescue us.

We must always remember that God is very close to us no matter the problems, afflictions, trials and persecutions in our way. In fact those negative circumstances are gate ways to break throughs in our lives. The three Hebrew men in our text were able to confess positively because they knew God well. You must go to God through Christ for this experience and you too can confess with courage.

• Challenge: "We may be much tossed, but we are quite safe"

• Prayer: "Help me to stand for you, oh God."

• Quote: "The Christian race comes with challenges"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Romans 8.31-39

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Higher Everyday
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 5, 2017

RETAINING YOUR INHERITANCE
TEXT: 1 KINGS 21:3

"And Naboth said Ahab, The LORD forbid it me, that I should give the inheritance of my fathers unto thee" (1 kings 21:3).

"No words can describe the wonderful joy that was shed abroad in my heart. I wept aloud with joy and love. The waves came over me and over me, one after another, until I cried out, 'I shall die if these waves continue to pass over me. Lord, I cannot bear any more." This quote is Finney's expression on the day of his conversion. The salvation of our souls is the greatest inheritance one can possess. It is no wonder that many believer would prefer to suffer for Christ's sake or even die than to lose their precious salvation experience. Apostle Paul said, "To me to live is Christ and to die is gain." Naboth boldly told Ahab that he could not give away his inheritance for anything.

Many people have compromised their inheritance in God's Kingdom to momentarily gain earthly things. How many today submit their bodies for fornication in order to pass exams or join occultism in order to be rich? Be wise!

• Challenge: "Many people have compromised their inheritance"

• Prayer: "Oh Lord, help me to keep my inheritance."

• Quote: "The salvation of our souls is the greatest inheritance"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Hebrews 12.15-17

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Higher Everyday
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2017

PRESSURED TO BREAKING POINT
TEXT: JUDGES 16:15

"And she said unto him, How canst thou say, I love thee, when thine heart is not with me? [color=blue]Thou hast mocked me these three times, and hast not told me wherein thy great power lieth" (Judges 16:15).

L. Eugene Arnold says, "The stress of resisting unhealthy peer pressure can be buffered by good family relationships and a high self-esteem, and it is often those adolescents with neither who succumb to unhealthy pressure from their peers." Samson, the great man of God fell due to pressure from the ungodly Delilah.

Before you criticise Samson, how do you respond to the pressure from your friends to do things contrary to the word of God? Though pressured, the saint can prevail.

Hear the hymn writer: Tho' the conflict be fierce and long, Tho' the tempter my heart assail, In my weakness yet I am strong, For with Jesus I'll e'er prevail.

Peer pressure will always be there, but it is your duty to resist the pressure to sin against God. "My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not" (Proverbs 1.8 ). You are to be like Christ who resisted temptations from the devil (Matthew 4.1-10).

• Challenge: "Respond with God's fear to the pressures from people"

• Prayer: "Help me, O God, to overcome the pressure to sin against you."

• Quote: "Samson fell due to pressure"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Matthew 4:1-10

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Higher Everyday
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 7, 2017

PRINCIPLES OF PROSPERITY
TEXT: 2 CHRONICLES 31:21

"And every work that he began in the service of the house of God, he did it with all his heart, and prospered" (2 Chronicles 31.21).

"When a man becomes a Christian, he becomes industrious, trustworthy and prosperous. Now, if that man when he gets all he can and saves all he can does not give all he can, I have more hope for Judas Iscariot than for that man!" John Wesley, an erudite man of God, reveals here, who a true believer should be. God raised us up to serve Him and in return He blesses us. We must remember that whatever we have must be given back to God who is the owner of our lives and all that we have.

The secret of prosperity is giving our time fully to the service of God. We can serve wherever we find ourselves and God will bless us right there. If your calling is to full time Christian ministry or as a medical doctor, engineer, Lawyer, farmer or a business man, you are accepted before God. Remember, God honours only the faithful service of the redeemed!

• Challenge: "A Christian man should be hard working and fruitful"

• Prayer: "Lord, make my work prosperous in Jesus' name."

• Quote: "God honours only the faithful"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Proverbs 6.6-11

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Higher Everyday
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 8, 2017

CONSISTENCY WITH GOD
TEXT: 1 KINGS 11:4

"For it came to pass, when Solomon was old, that his wives turned away his heart after other gods: and his heart was not perfect with the LORD his God, as was the heart of David his father" (1 Kings 11:4).

"The true Christian is called to be a soldier and must behave as such from the day of his conversion to the day of his death. He is not meant to live a life of religious ease, indolence and security. He must never imagine for a moment that he can sleep and doze along the way to heaven, like one travelling in an easy carriage." J. C. Ryle aptly captures what Christianity is in this quote. Modern day Christians may not agree with this.

In our text, today, we see an aspect of the spiritual weakness of King Solomon. He equally married many strange wives and had concubines. Solomon started well and God blessed him but he continued badly and the kingdom became divided. We should follow the good examples of people like: Joseph in Egypt, Daniel in Babylon and Elizabeth, the mother of John the Baptist. Those with weak convictions and persuasions cannot make it. Those looking for ease and cannot resist temptations tenaciously are mere religionists and cannot see the kingdom of God.

• Challenge: "The guarantee for heaven is a faithful walk with God"

• Prayer: "Deliver me from inconsistency, Oh my God!"

• Quote: "Solomon started well but he continued badly"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Genesis 5:22-24

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Higher Everyday
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 9, 2017

THE LAST ADAM NEVER SINNED
TEXT: HEBREWS 4:15

"For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin" (Hebrews 4:15).

Jesus is the spotless Lamb of God who "takes away the sin of the world." Watchman Nee rightly puts it this way, "The Lord Jesus, when He died on the Cross, shed His Blood, thus giving His sinless life to atone for our sin and to satisfy the righteousness and holiness of God. To do so was the prerogative of the Son of God alone."

True believers are configured in the image of Christ, the last Adam, who is sinless and spotless. Some preachers deceive their followers by saying that it is not possible to live in this world without sin. Such an error doesn't move the true Christian for he/she knows that old things must pass away after conversion. By way of illustration, a true believer carries the DNA of Christ and cannot sin.

• Challenge: "True believers are configured with the image of Christ"

• Prayer: "Lord, deliver me from sin, in Jesus' name"

• Quote: "A true believer carries the DNA of Christ"

• Bible Reading in one Year: 1 John 3.3-10

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Higher Everyday
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 10, 2017

SOME THINGS GOD HATES
TEXT: PROVERB 6:17-18

"A proud look, a lying tongue and a hand that shed innocent blood, an heart that deviseth wicked imagination, feet that be swift in running to mischief" (Proverb 6:17-18).

Renee a young girl feigned herself to be a Governor's daughter in a renowned school for the rich in order to earn the respect of the students. One fateful day, Renee's father came in, to visit her at school in a very shabby appearance. After the visit, her friends asked her, "Who was that man?" She replied, "Oh he is one of is our drivers." This is how terrible some girls can be, so pompous, full of lies and deceit. Are you like Renee? Why do you stick to the sin God hates and you hate that which God loves? What a big contradiction!

Our text sums up most of the wicked things condemned by God. These seven things are sins that relate to the deep motives of a man. The word of God points straight to your hearts and your sinful thought processes. God hates your terrible lies, your proud looks, your murderous intentions and wicked imaginations. Please, come to the fountain for a cleansing in the blood of Jesus today.

• Challenge: "Repent of all your evil intentions"

• Prayer: "Lord, help me to stick to your love"

• Quote: "God hates your terrible lies"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Galatian 5: 19:21

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Higher Everyday
MONDAY, DECEMBER 11, 2017

BE COURAGEOUS
TEXT: JOSHUA 1:6

"Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shall thou divide for an inheritance the land which I swear unto their fathers to give them" (Joshua 1:6).

Show me a youth who can face danger, difficulty, uncertainty, or pain without being overcome by fear or a determined youth who cannot be deflected from his planned course of action and I will show you a youth of courage who will go places. A homeless 16 year old teenager, Destiny Tyree, finished her first degree course in the university with a 4.0 GPA, despite series of challenges. In fact, things took a rough turn when Tyree's mother lost her job while she was still at school. The family had to move into a homeless shelter, which increased Tyree's difficulties in pursing her academic goal. However, even this could not deter her as she pursued her studies with more vigour and determination which finally paved way for her success.

Nothing great is achieved without courage. The disciples of Jesus were fearful before the Holy Ghost baptism. Thereafter, they became very courageous and unstoppable in the gospel work. If you lack courage, ensure you are born again and pray to God for empowerment with the Holy Spirit.

• Challenge: "Turn to God for courage today"

• Prayer: "Lord, fill me with courage in Jesus' name"

• Quote: "Nothing great is achieved without courage"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Joshua 1: 5-8

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Higher Everyday
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 12, 2017

TILL YOUR LAND TODAY
TEXT: Proverb 12: 11

"He that tilleth his land shall be satisfied with bread: but he that followeth vain persons is void of understanding" (Proverb 12: 11).

To till your land means that you should prepare it by plowing or harrowing it for growing crops. The main occupation in Bible times was farming and it was a family business. It provided food for the family and it was also a source of income. Our text today commends the person who tills his land and condemns the one who is wayward and idle. To till your land in our context, is to work on your venture; whether business or academics. If you want your business to prosper, you must plan and do all things necessary for it to bring profit. The student who hopes to have excellent result never fails to study diligently. The sportsman tills his land by daily practice.

My dear friend, are you preparing for the future? Let me remind you of the words of Theodore Roosevelt, "I never won anything without hard labour and the exercise of my best judgment and careful planning and working long in advance." The professor, doctor, pastor and business leader of tomorrow is a learner today. Pray for grace to learn well and prosper.

• Challenge: "The future begins today; work for it"

• Prayer: "Lord, help me not to follow wayward boys and girls"

• Quote: "Pray for grace to learn well and prosper"

• Bible Reading in one Year: Proverb 6: 6-11

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Higher Everyday
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 13, 2017

MEN NOTHING MOVES
TEXT: ACTS 20:24

"But none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify of the gospel of the grace of God" (Acts 20:24).

Little children are easily moved to fear, to tears, to change their minds or to even run away. This is because they lack understanding, experience, principles or goals. Even some adults also act like children sometimes.

However, men like Apostle Paul, have fixed convictions; nothing moves them because they have visions and goals.
Read these inspiring lines of Steven Furtick with me: My purpose outweighs my pain. My destiny outweighs my history. My crown outweighs my cross. My hope outweighs my hardships. God's grace outweighs my shame. The blessing outweighs the burden. God's favour outweighs my frustration.

Christians who have this kind of strong conviction would resolve to stay on God's side always. Sentiments may move women like Orpah but not a Ruth. Remember eternity with Jesus.

• Challenge: "In taking decisions, think of what Jesus would do."

• Prayer: "May nothing move me, O God."

• Quote: "Resolve to stay on God's side always."

• Bible Reading in one Year: Acts 20:22-24

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Higher Everyday
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 14, 2017

A LOST OPPORTUNITY
TEXT: Acts 26:28

"Then Agrippa said unto Paul, Almost thou persuadest me to be a Christian" (Acts 26:28).

A one-time USA Secretary of States, Dr Henry Kissinger said, "Opportunities cannot be hoarded, once past, they are usually irretrievable." When people hear the gospel and reject it or decide that they would think about it, they are wasting a golden opportunity. This is very true of the actress, Marilyn Monroe, I don't need your Jesus," she told Evangelist Billy Graham, the famous American preacher. The Holy Spirit had directed Billy Graham to reach her with the gospel message. When she was at the presentation of a show, the preacher met her. Marilyn Monroe listened to him preach the gospel message but rejected it. Unfortunately, she was found dead in her apartment just a week later. A glorious opportunity for eternal life was lost.

Many people are like King Agrippa in our text today or Marilyn Monroe. Whether you postpone your salvation or reject the gospel outright, you are missing an opportunity for eternity with God. Do not stand on the fence; choose now to be on the side of Jesus Christ today by surrendering your life to Him. Choose today where you will spend eternity: heaven or hell.

• Challenge: "Use every opportunity God gives to you."

• Prayer: "Motivate me to use my opportunities, O God."

• Quote: "Choose now to be on the side of Jesus."

• Bible Reading in one Year: 1 Kings 18:20-22; Psalm 95:7-11

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Higher Everyday
FRIDAY, DECEMBER 15, 2017

LIFE IS A JOURNEY
TEXT: HEBREWS 11:10

"By faith Abraham, when he was called to go out into a place which he should after receive for an inheritance, obeyed, and he went out, not knowing wither he went" (Hebrews 11:10).

In our text today, Abraham journeyed from his comfort zone, to an unknown place. However, he had a goal and was guided by God. There were challenges as he journeyed on but God was there to help him. This is what W. Clement Stone said about life: "Regardless of what you are or what you have been, you can still become what you may want to be. For as you continue your journey through life, you, like the captain of a ship can select your first port of call and then continue until you arrive at the next. You'll experience calm and stormy seas as you go from one port to another, but it is you who must steer the course.

Many a ship that lost its rudder and many a person who lost character have become derelicts, lost to the world. This can happen at almost any point in a voyage at sea or life." Beloved, without Christ, there are travel disasters. If Jesus is the Captain of your ship, you will safely land in your heavenly Canaan. Your Captain is reliable.

• Challenge: "The purpose of life is a life of purpose."

• Prayer: "Help me, O God to avoid an aimless journey in Jesus' name."

• Quote: "Your Captain is reliable."

• Bible Reading in one Year: 1 Peter 2:11, 12

See more here:

Special Invitation From Pastor W.F Kumuyi.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPUU6Z7lFW8

Higher Everyday
SATURDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2017

GET DIVINE GUIDANCE
TEXT: ISAIAH 30:21

"And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left" (Isaiah 30:21).

It was Henry W. Beecher who stated: "The strength of a man consists in finding out the way God is going, and going that way." When God told the children of Israel to leave Egypt for the Promised Land, He knew that they did not know the way or what to do when they were faced with problems on the way. This was why God provided a pillar of clouds to guide them by day and a pillar of fire by night. The world is too vast and the challenges of life too complex for man to live without divine guidance.

Many people, due to increase in knowledge, think that they do not need God's guidance and have become masters of their own destinies. With the use of satellites, drones, internet, android phones and other sophisticated machines, one can easily solve many problems today. Why do we then need divine guidance? So they think. These innovations notwithstanding, man still needs divine guidance. Man has no solutions to all problems of life. Establish a relationship with God through Christ and He will guide you.

• Challenge: "Human knowledge and inventions can fail."

• Prayer: "Guide me O thou great Jehovah, in Jesus' name."

• Quote: "Man has no solutions to all problems of life."

• Bible Reading in one Year: Psalm 25:9,9

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Higher Everyday
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2017

SEEING GOD THROUGH CREATION-1
TEXT: JEREMIAH 10:12

"He that made the earth by His power, He hath established the world by His wisdom, and hath stretched out the heavens by His discretion" (Jeremiah 10:12).

The Almighty God is the creator of heaven and earth, and all things in them. God is a Spirit, so, ordinarily, man in flesh and blood, cannot see Him. No one can find God by experiments. That is why the atheists do not believe that God exists and the agnostics continue to doubt. However, looking at everything in the world, you must agree that there is an intelligent being who made all things.

Let me remind you of this poem by C. F. Alexander: All things bright and beautiful, All creatures great and small, All things wise and wonderful, The Lord God made them all. Each little flower that opens, Each little bird that sings, He made their glowing colours, He made their tiny wings. Yes, God made them all!

As you go out today, admire the creation of God and give Him praise. When it is sunshine or rainfall; when it snows or there is a blizzard, it is all the handiwork of God. Believe in God. He is greater than our doubts and doubters.

• Challenge: "If not God, who then made all things?"

• Prayer: "Oh God, help me to doubt my doubts."

• Quote: "No one can find God by experiments."

• Bible Reading in one Year: Isaiah 40:18, 25, 26

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All Things Bright and Beautiful
Cecil F. Alexander, pub.1848

Refrain:
All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful:
The Lord God made them all.

1. Each little flow'r that opens,
Each little bird that sings,
He made their glowing colours,
He made their tiny wings.

2. The purple-headed mountains,
The river running by,
The sunset and the morning
That brightens up the sky.

3. The cold wind in the winter,
The pleasant summer sun,
The ripe fruits in the garden,
He made them every one.

4. The tall trees in the greenwood,
The meadows where we play,
The rushes by the water,
To gather every day.

5. He gave us eyes to see them,
And lips that we might tell
How great is God Almighty,
Who has made all things well.

Higher Everyday
MONDAY, DECEMBER 18, 2017

SEEING GOD THROUGH CREATION-2
TEXT: PROVERBS 20:12

"The hearing ear and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made them all" (Proverbs 20:12).

Consider all natural things around you, both living and non-living; God made them all. In today's text, the Holy Spirit isolates just two organs of the human body for contemplation. Our bodies, having many organs, are a wonder. Medical doctors who spend years in specialist studies on the structure and functions of the ear and eye are often filled with awe about the wisdom of God in creation. They know that we did not evolve from an atom or an ape, and we are not accident. The great scientist, Albert Einstein declared, "If the universe is an accident, we are accident. But if there is meaning in the universe, there is meaning in us too."

Is there no meaning or sense in us? Is it an accident and coincidence that you have outer ear, middle ear and inner ear, and your eye also has outer wall, middle wall and inner wall? Let the evolutionists tell us why both the ear and the eye have their structures and functions connected to the brain. Our Creator, the Omnipotent and Omniscient God, is worthy of praises.

• Challenge: "We can hear and see because God designed for us ears and eyes?"

• Prayer: "Thank you my God for giving me ears to hear and eyes to see."

• Quote: "We did not evolve from an atom or ape."

• Bible Reading in one Year: Genesis 1:26-31

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Higher Everyday
TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2017

LIVE TO LEAVE FOOT PRINTS
TEXT: PROVERBS 20:12

"And he trembling and astonished said, Lord, what wilt thou have me to do? And the Lord said unto him, Arise and go into the city, and it shall be told thee what thou must do" (Acts 9:6).

It is not how long you live, but the impact you make on the world while you abide here. You are only remembered by what you have done! Martin Luther King Jr. said, "If a man is called to be a street sweeper, let him sweep the streets as Michelangelo painted, or Beethoven composed music, or Shakespeare wrote poetry. He should sweep, so well that all the host of heaven and earth will pause to say here lived a great sweeper who did his job well."

As a believer God expects you to work hard while still alive in order to leave a legacy behind for upcoming generations. Some missionary workers laid down their lives for the gospel to get to you. You too owe posterity a huge debt which can only be paid by your commitment to the gospel work. Paul, the apostle, was using his gifts and talents wrongly until he met Christ. He cried out, "Lord, what wilt thou have me to do?" You can turn to God today to know what you need to do for Him.

• Challenge: "Ask God what you need do with your life?"

• Prayer: "Oh God, make me a channel of blessing, in Jesus' name."

• Quote: "You too owe posterity a huge debt."

• Bible Reading in one Year: Matthew 5.13-16

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Higher Everyday
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 20, 2017

HUSTLE FOR THE NOBLE HEIGHTS
TEXT: PHILIPPIANS 3:14

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

"The purpose of your life is far greater than your own personal fulfillment, your peace of mind, or even your happiness. It's far greater than your family, your career, or even your wildest dream and ambition. If you want to know why you were placed on this planet you must begin with God. You were born by His purpose and for His purpose." Rick Warren in this quote took a swipe on those who pursue fames and achievements without connecting with God. You were created to fulfill divine purposes. There are heights to attain for God's glory. You must hustle to attain these heights.

Paul, in our text, pressed towards his God given height or target. It is noteworthy that laziness towards our academic or secular heights is unacceptable neither should our commitments to the kingdom work be given a back seat. You should desire to be an evangelist, or a preacher, or as worker for God to achieve your noble heights. You can start in a small way by participating in a Christian fellowship actively.

• Challenge: "There are heights to attain for God's glory."

• Prayer: "My God, help me to hasten to fulfill my ordained destiny."

• Quote: "You are created to fulfill divine purposes."

• Bible Reading in one Year: 2 Timothy 4:5-8

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OLAADEGBU:


Special Invitation From Pastor W.F Kumuyi.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lPUU6Z7lFW8

It's a yearly event where people from diverse ethnic groups, tongues and languages come under the teaching, inspiration and leading of the Holy Spirit for guidance, blessings and instruction for a better beginning. This Year's event promises great blessings as the Bank of Heaven promises one thousand and one manifold blessings for all its participant through the anointed ministers of God. Be a partaker and Live to tell others.

Higher Everyday
THURSDAY, DECEMBER 21, 2017

FIGHT YOUR FEARS
TEXT: 2 Timothy 1:7

"For God has not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind" (2 Timothy 1:7).

Often we give in to fear or discouragement because of uncertainties of life. A believer has no business with fear because his/her heavenly Father is in charge of every situation. In fact, it is dishonouring to God for His children to fear. Dr. Reginald Klimionok encourages us against fear thus: "As we confront the Hittite spirit of fear in our lives we will soon see that the giants which seemed to have loomed so high making us feel so intimidated and afraid are themselves mere grasshoppers."

You must see yourself as an overcomer because Jesus has paid the price for your deliverance. Timothy was warned against fear as a young pastor by Paul. You must realise that God has not given us the spirit of fear; so any time you accept fear, it means you have taken on the property of the devil.

However, fear can only be defeated when you have genuinely given your life to Christ and have done necessary restitutions. Fear emanating from a guilty conscience will continue to trail you unless you repent and believe the gospel!

• Challenge: "You must see yourself as an over comer."

• Prayer: "Take away from me the spirit of fear, oh God."

• Quote: "A believer has no business with fear."

• Bible Reading in one Year: Numbers 13:26-30

See more here:

Merry Christmas...