Hilltop International Christian Centre: 2018

WISE DECISION

Scripture: Joshua 24:14-28

“..But as for me and my house, we will serve the LORD.”
Joshua 24:15b (KJV)

People go after different pleasures in life. Indeed, we have the freedom of will that allows us to pick our decisions. As thrilling as it is to have the freedom to choose, we must understand that our choices have consequences and must
therefore, be made wisely.

Joshua told the Children of Israel to choose. He gave them freewill to act (Joshua 24:15). Elijah made the same declaration to the people in First Kings chapter 16 verse 28. Your decisions can make or mar a life (Proverbs 18:21). They determine the path you follow and your ultimate destination. Joshua clearly stated his choice. He chose God. This is the wisest decision he ever made. Who else would you choose to work with than the God who made all things (Colossians 1:16), declares the end from the beginning (Isaiah 46:10) and aligns all things to work in your favour (Romans 8:28).

The freewill to make choices does not give us the liberty to make decisions to please ourselves and for our convenience. As Children of God, our decisions should put God first and wholly to please him. Jesus pointed us to the right path to choose when he said “I am the Way, the Truth and the Life” (John 14:6a). No decision will be better than choosing the path that leads to life which is Jesus. Every other thing falls in place when this most important decision is made. This year, let your choice reflect what God wants for you. Choose to walk with God.

REMEMBER TO ATTEND: Leadership/Communion Service tomorrow, 5:30PM

PRAYER: Lord, help me to choose you over everything no matter the circumstance in Jesus name.

FAITH BYTE: As for me and my household, we will serve the Lord. We choose him always.

BE ACCOUNTABLE

Scripture: Proverbs 16:1-3

“I have the right to do anything,’
you say-but not everything is beneficial.”
1 Corinthians 6:12a (NIV)

There are consequences for every action you take (Proverbs 14:14). Some may manifest here while others may not until judgment day. However, one thing is certain; you will give account of and reap a reward for every deed you have done (2 Corinthians 5:10) and every word uttered (Matthew 12:36).

God gave humans the freedom of choice to make and not to mar their lives. Do not abuse this privilege by assuming that your life is yours and therefore, you are answerable to no one (1Corinthians 6:12a).

Scripture: Acts 19:1-10

“….Have ye received the
Holy Ghost since ye believed?”
Acts 19:2 (KJV)

It is God’s desire for every Christian that after you get born again, you should receive the Holy Ghost (Acts 1:8) The Holy Ghost is the third person in the Godhead. Yes, you have the Holy Spirit living inside of you when you get born again and the outpouring of the Holy Ghost which Jesus spoke about in Acts 1:8 is the essential energizer for witnessing for God with signs and wonders following.

Scripture: Acts 12:1-11

“And when Peter was come to himself,
he said; now I know of a surety that the
Lord hath sent his angel and hath delivered
me out of the hands of Herod, and from all the
expectations of the people of the Jews.”
Acts 12:11 (KJV)

Feedback: Consider the pleasures of staying in God’s presence.

God throws his weight around on behalf of those who obey his commands. His eyes run to and fro throughout the whole earth to show himself strong on the behalf of those whose hearts are perfect towards Him (2 Chronicles 16:9). In the course of doing God’s work, you will stir the anger of the
enemy and he will set out to destroy you but God is more than able to keep His children safe.

Scripture: 1 Chronicles 16:23-31

“…bring my sons from far, and
my daughters from the ends of the earth;
Even every one that is called by my name;
for I have created him for my glory,…”
Isaiah 43:6-7 (KJV)

Worship means a lot of things to a lot of people but what does it mean to worship God? It means letting go of everything and surrendering your all to Him. It is a deep reverence for and total submission to his will. It means living your life to please God and just being a source of joy to Him.

There are people who maintain high moral standards but do not have an intimate relationship with God. The purpose of man is to give God glory (Isaiah 43:7; 1 Corinthians 10:31) and worship
is the best form of giving God glory.

Scripture: Acts 20:1-6

“Although they plot against you,
their evil schemes will never succeed.”
Psalms 21:11 (NLT)

The enemy would always want to attack the flow of the gospel especially by not allowing the unsaved to be reached. Oppositions will definitely come up to attack the preaching of the word of God but it is important in the midst of these trials to remain focused and refuse to become distracted. People of God frequently meet stiff opposition and rebellion from the enemy geared towards eliminating Christianity but God’s word can never be crushed.

Scripture: Revelation 5:1-10

“...You are worthy...because you
were slain, and with your blood you
purchased for God persons from every
tribe and language and people and nation.”
Revelation 5:9 (NIV)

Genesis recounts the effort God put into creating the world. It highlights the creativity and sovereignty of the one who upholds the earth. He made all things perfect for our enjoyment but man fell due to sin.

Our text tells the anguish of the writer who could not find anyone worthy to open the seals of the book (v3-4). Someone, however, comes to the rescue (v5-6).

Scripture: Matthew 2:1-11

“Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift”
2 Corinthians 9:15 (NIV)

During Christmas people worry about what to give to friends and family members. They scurry around shops in a bid to find the most suitable gift to mark the celebrations.

The wise men from the East bestowed the most valuable gifts anyone could bestow upon a baby.Yet their gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh diminish in the face of God’s gift of His Son to mankind.

Scripture: Mark 4:13-20

“By their fruit you will recognize them.
Do people pick grapes from thorn-bushes,
or figs from thistles?”
Matthew 7:16 (NIV)

It may seem reasonable to blame the seed when the harvest is poor but it is of importance to note that the condition of the soil, also, determines the outcome of the seed. The seed is the talent or ability that God has put inside of you. The soil is your environment and where the seed dwells.

Everyone has a seed. However, the reason some people bring forth massive harvests while others struggle is due to the quality of their soil.

Scripture: Daniel 10:10-14

“Keep on asking, and you will
receive what you ask for…”
Matthew 7:7 (NLT)

Sometimes, when we pray, we receive immediate answers. At other times, we may have to wait awhile before the answers come. Then what do you do when the answers to your prayers are not forth coming? Do you fold your hands and do nothing? Do you forget about it or you complain and grumble to people and to God? This is not the right approach if you are to receive your answer.

When we must have presented our request to God in prayers, what we do, thereafter, matters a lot.

Scripture: Luke 15:11-24

“Come near to God and he will
come near to you. Wash your
hands, you sinners and purify
your hearts you double minded.”
James 4:8 (NIV)

Feedback: Share how it feels to win a soul.

Many believers encounter temptations that lead them into sin. They are aware of the consequences of sin, and even hate it, yet they find themselves going back to it again and again. We cannot remain
slaves to sin when Christ has already freed us from its shackles (Romans 6:19).We must break away from this dangerous cycle.

Jesus uses the parable of the prodigal son to clearly expose the destructive effects of sin

Scripture: Matthew 25:14-30

“To those who use well what they are
given, even more will be given, and they will
have an abundance. But from those who do
nothing, even what little they have will be away.”
Matthew 25:29 (NLT)

Biology teaches how during reproduction, of the millions of sperm cells that are released during copulation, usually only one or a few would succeed in fertilizing the female egg to form a foetus. The fact that you are alive is a miracle and a privilege. Your birth and life is for a purpose

Scripture: Acts 8:1-8

“He said to them, “Go into all the
world and preach the gospel to all creation.”
Mark 16:15 (NIV)

The instruction to go into the world and preach the gospel is a non-negotiable mandate that applies to all believers. Most times because of the fear of rejection, ridicule, or persecution, some believers hold back from adhering to this God given mandate. But it is important to note that the same power that Jesus had is available for the believer today, so fear should not be a barrier to populating the kingdom of God.

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 12:1-14

“Now he which stablisheth us with you
in Christ, and hath anointed us, is God;
who hath also sealed us, and given the
earnest of the Spirit in our hearts.”
2 Corinthians 1:21-22 (KJV)

In ancient times, and also in some cultures, kings embossed their royal seal on documents to close them. It was used to prove the authenticity of the document and the authority of the bearer of the seal. The bearer wields the same power and influence that the ruler,

Scripture: 2 Chronicles 30:13-21

“…..for the LORD seeth not as
man seeth; for man looketh on
the outward appearance, but the
LORD looketh on the heart”.
1 Samuel 16:7 (KJV)

In accounting, there is a principle called ‘substance over form. The principle is that when preparing accounts, one is to give preference to the ‘substance’ of the transaction more than the strict legal ‘form’. For instance, if someone who has a fixed deposit with a bank asks the bank to lend him money using his fixed deposit as collateral,

Scripture: Genesis 26:16-22

“Be ye strong therefore,
and let not your hands be weak:
for your work shall be rewarded.”
2 Chronicles 15:7 (KJV)

The devil expects you to give up when he puts obstacles in your way but one of the characteristics a Christian must possess is resilience because the devil will never stop trying to bring God’s children down and

Scripture: Genesis 26:25-35

“What shall we then say to
these things? If God be for us,
who can be against us?”
Romans 8:31 (KJV)

The presence of God is the most powerful, reliable and infallible shield a Christian can have against the darts and works of the enemy. The Lord surrounds His people like the mountains surround Jerusalem (Psalm 125:2). It was God’s presence that brought Isaac good increase and blessings and made his enemies to approach him for peace.

Scripture: Proverbs 4:1-10

“Wisdom is the principal thing;
therefore get wisdom:
Proverbs 4:7a (KJV)

Feedback: Share how confessing God’s promises impacted you.

Few words contrast so sharply as wisdom and foolishness. Everyone wants to be regarded as a wise man or woman but what most people consider to be wisdom, is mere foolishness in the eyes of God

People believe that knowing how the world works, how to make
gains in life, how to outwit and outsmart your opponents, and
how to make good economic and political judgments are the
factors that make them wise. As a result of such beliefs, every
time they win, the world system concludes that they must be
wise. Surely, its a good thing to score wins but we must realize
that wisdom is a much deeper concept than just winning or losing
in life.

The book of Proverbs chapter 4 speaks very graphically about
the benefits of retaining and applying the word of God in our
daily lives. His word guides, protects, promotes and enriches the
believer’s life. When you retain and apply God’s word, it will
bring you honour and give you long life (Proverbs 4:10) because
it will keep you walking in line with his will for you. God told
Joshua to make His word the guiding principle of his leadership
style and he would have good success (Joshua 1:8). Wisdom,
therefore, is to know the Lord, keep His commands, and apply
His word daily in your life’s journey.

Reflections: How do I apply God’s word to every aspect of my life?

PRAYER: Lord, I pray for the
grace to keep your word
in my heart and to apply
your word daily in my life
in Jesus name.

FAITH BYTE: I yield my life completely
to God; I am motivated
and passionate about
His word.

This Week's Walk of Faith: Study Proverb 11:30 and spend this week
practicing the wisdom in this verse.

THE ROD OF CORRECTION

Scripture: Proverbs 23:7-14

“Foolishness is bound in the heart of a child; but the rod of correction shall drive it far from him.” Proverbs 22:15 (KJV)

Children are by default, prone to foolish deeds because they have little or no knowledge of the consequences of their actions. It takes the extra effort of good and godly parents to grow young children, especially in this modern era, into responsible and wise adults. One of the ways parents raise good children is through prompt and continuous correction.

Scripture: Proverbs 3:27-28

“Boast not thyself of tomorrow; for thou knowest not what a day may bring forth.” Proverbs 27:1 (KJV)

No one feels happy when what is due them is intentionally delayed; yet we often find ourselves doing so to others. Postponement or procrastination of any event that will lead to loss for the next person, with no tangible reason is not a character any Christian should exhibit.

Scripture: James 1:2-15

“But since you are like lukewarm water, neither hot nor cold, I will spit you out of my mouth!” Revelation 3:16 (NLT)

Hesitation, procrastination and distractions are the outcomes of indecision. The Greek word for double-mindedness “dipsuchos”, literally translates as two-minded; that is someone being pulled in two different directions, constantly shifting between decisions. For this person it is impossible to ever steadily commit to anything. Such a man or woman is unstable emotionally, financially and spiritually.

Scripture: Proverbs 3:21-26

“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” Proverbs 4:7 (KJV)

Everyone has, at some point in time, succumbed to fear and many still currently live in constant fear. In an attempt to deal with the fear, some resort to substance abuse while some enter into destructive relationships. They usually end up in a bigger mess than where they started.

Scripture: Colossians 2:1-8

“Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils.” 1 Timothy 4:1 (KJV)

Feedback: Consider the benefits of studying God’s word.

God's word can help shape our mindset and build up our faith in him but philosophy based on the wisdom of men contrary to the knowledge of God can ruin our faith. These principles are built after the tradition of men and the rudiments of the world rather than the word of God. Any philosophy contrary to the word of God is from the devil.

Scripture: Proverbs 3:1-12

“But he said, Yea rather, blessed are they that hear the word of God, and keep it." Luke 11: 28 (KJV)

God's words and principles are timeless truths that do not require any addition or subtraction. Be that as it may, some people are still not receptive and hardhearted towards the Word of God thereby making themselves impossible candidates for the blessings that lie within.

Scripture: 2 Timothy 3:8-18

“For prophecy never had its origin in the human will, but prophets, though human, spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.” 2 Peter 1:21 (NIV) \

The Bible is the word of God. It is his voice to help and direct us daily. The Bible is an absolute necessity for every believer because it contains everything he needs to be successful in every area of life. This book of wisdom is a detailed manual that contains lessons and instructions for living.

Scripture: Proverbs 3:1-12

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him,…” Romans 15:13a (NIV)

There are a lot of smart people everywhere in the world today but just how far can intelligence take anyone? Without total trust in God and surrender to Him, you can only get as far as your brain can comprehend but when you are backed up by the all-knowing God, there is no limit to what you can achieve. (Isaiah 46:10).

Scripture: Deuteronomy 26:1-11

“Honour the Lord with your possessions, And with the firstfruits of all your increase;” Proverbs 3:9 (NKJV)

The general attitude of many when it comes to giving Tis to bring to God leftovers, after every other need has been met. This is wrong. Every other need, no matter how urgent and important in our consideration and circumstance should take second place after honouring God the giver of all things. Nothing should take God’s place in your giving order.

Scripture: Proverbs 8:17-30

“My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.” Proverbs 8:19 (KJV)

Everyone aspires to live the good life, including Christians. We all want to be rich, live in fine homes, drive good cars, marry and have beautiful children. These are legitimate and godly aspirations. What is critical is how you get the good things of life. To God, the end does not justify the means at all.

Scripture: 1 Timothy 6:17-21

“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.” 1 Timothy 6:17 (NIV)

Money is good and answereth all things. The Church needs money to expand, the Christian needs money to survive on earth, therefore, money itself is not the problem. The problem is the attitude of man towards it. People are ready to go to any length and even sell their souls to be rich.

Scripture: Proverbs 4:1-11

“A wise son heareth his father’s instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke.” Proverbs 13:1 (KJV)

Feedback: How refreshing was your personal devotion with God?

Fathers are placed over children to guide, protect and provide for them. In order to nurture them in the path of success, fathers always instruct their children from their wealth of experience and wisdom. Some instructions may seem harsh or very difficult but are usually given with the best intentions at heart and the wellbeing of the child as the ultimate focus.

Scripture: Romans 8:12-17

“Who will bring any charge against God’s elect (His chosen ones)? It is God who justifies us (declaring us blameless and putting us in a right relationship with Himself).” Romans 8:33 (AMP)

I t is quite unfortunate when a child grows up without a father or worse as an orphan, without parental love.Such a child is vulnerable, unguided and most critically “unprotected”. A person is spiritually unprotected until they become God’s own and this is done by simply accepting His Son Jesus Christ in principle and practice.

Scripture: Proverbs 2:10-15

“Do not forsake wisdom, and she will protect you;” Proverbs 4:6 (NIV)

A Christian that lacks the wisdom and understanding to survive in the world today will constantly be pulled down. We should strive to possess the quality of having good judgment and this can only be possible by the help of the Holy Spirit.

Scripture: Ephesians 6:10-20

“But you are a chosen people, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, God’s special possession, that you may declare the praises of him who called you out of darkness into his wonderful light.” 1 Peter 2:9 (AMP)

Many people are so “modernized” that they feel the devil does not exist and this is their greatest undoing. The devil will always provoke you with temptations and trials but you must not let him succeed. The day you gave your life to Christ and decided to serve God is the same day you became a prime target of the enemy.

Scripture: Ecclesiastes 7:1-12

"A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches, and loving favour rather than silver and gold." Proverbs 22:1 (KJV)

The needs and desires that are synonymous with living on earth can sometimes push people into doing things that will give them a bad name. Even Christians sometimes are caught in this web of deceit that they have to live up to the standards of the world so they sometimes compromise their values to meet up.

Scripture: Proverbs 19:1-8

“A friend loves at all times, and a brother is born for a time of adversity.” Proverbs 17:17 (NIV)

It is quite common to see sycophants flocking around the rich and powerful, pledging allegiance to them and displaying a high level of loyalty simply because of what they stand to gain. Take away the riches and power and watch them disappear like shadows.

Scripture: 2 Timothy 1:15-18

“I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith:” 2 Timothy 4:7 (KJV)

M any Christians in our present day often give up on people and God during challenging and trying times which actually shows a weakness in their faith and consequently disloyalty to God. It will be folly to give up on your faith when the challenges of life hit and even more dangerous when you start questioning God.

Scripture: Job 1:1-10

“Have you not made a hedge around him, around his household…” Job 1:10a (NKJV)

Feedback: Consider the divine benefits of sharing the goodnews.

A hedge is a barrier of protection; a common example is the fence around your house. However, there is a higher hedge more superior to any other. It is the hedge of God. The hedge of God is God’s total and perpetual protective covering over a man’s entire life. This hedge does not just protect your house and physical possessions but also surrounds you, your family and loved ones physically and spiritually.

Scripture: Proverbs 21:17,26

“Whoever loves pleasure will become poor...” Proverbs 21:17 (NIV)

Managing finances is a struggle for a lot of people in general and even believers. The bible has provided a guide to mastering the art of financial discipline. It requires self-discipline and control of our desires.

Scripture: 1 Samuel 30:1-8

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.” Proverbs 3:5-6 (NIV)

In a world where many voices and influences exist, making life choices can sometimes be a difficult task and we often find ourselves seeking advice from others. But how can we tell if the counsel we receive is right or wrong? How do we ultimately decide what to accept? We must realize as believers that God’s word is always available to us as the ultimate counsel (Psalms 119:24).

Scripture: 2 Timothy 4:1-8

“Preach the word of God. Be prepared, whether the time is favourable or not.” 2 Timothy 4:2 (NLT)

The phrase “there is time for everything” can never be overemphasized especially when you bear in mind the fact that your days on earth are numbered and someday you will be no more (Psalms 103:15). Why keep till tomorrow what ought to be done today when you are not sure of tomorrow? Your mandate as a Christian is to fully carry out the ministry that God has given to you which is preaching the good news of Christ.

There is never a perfect time for propagating the gospel of Christ. Remember that while you wait and hesitate, many souls await the harvest. It does not matter how unwilling they are or how long it takes to convert them. Be patient while preaching, correcting and rebuking them. By so doing, they will gradually come to the knowledge of the truth. You may be in an environment where it is difficult or unfavourable for you to preach the gospel but draw courage from Apostle Paul’s advice. Do not be afraid of facing trials and tribulations as long as they are for a good cause (v5).

As a Christian, can you honestly say to yourself, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race?” Are you pushing till tomorrow what you ought to do today because of one challenge or the other? God wants you to spread the good news. Remember that this is not in vain because a great prize which is the crown of righteousness awaits you (v6).

PRAYER: Lord, help me to capitalize on opportunities to preach the word so that more souls can come to the knowledge of the truth in Jesus name.

FAITH BYTE: I preach without ceasing. A crown of glory awaits me.

USE YOUR TONGUE WISELY

Scripture: Proverbs 15:1-4

“Don’t use fowl or abusive language. Let everything you say be good and helpful, so that your words will be an encouragement to those who hear them.” Ephesians 4:29 (NLT)

The tongue is a mighty weapon that has the power to build or destroy depending on how it is used. It can make the difference in a conflict or dispute. There are also times when silence may be as required as words once spoken to another cannot be withdrawn and like broken glass may be nearly impossible to put back together. This means that your words can create problems.

Scripture: Proverbs 9:1-12

“Fear of the Lord is the foundation of wisdom…” Proverbs 9:10 (NLT)

If it was possible to purchase wisdom with money, inherit it from parents or receive it as a reward for something, then it will be within the reach of all; both believers and unbelievers. The scriptures remind us that the fear of the Lord is the bedrock of wisdom. How can you make it through life without wisdom and how can you have wisdom without the fear of God?

Scripture: Proverbs 6:1-11

“Work brings profit, but mere talk leads to poverty! Proverbs 14:23 (NLT)

Ants are widely known as industrious, diligent and well organized animals. They are self-driven and can work without leadership or supervision. They work hard to gather for rainy days and so they are never in lack no matter the weather (v8). Humans are created with more developed and advanced abilities.

Scripture: Proverbs 3:1-12

“Never let loyalty and kindness leave you!...” Proverbs 3:3 (NLT)

Feedback: Consider what it will take to always say the right words

Many people stay committed to things or people simply because they believe and expect they will receive favours from them. They do not believe in going through the thick and thin in any matter or relationship. For these people, if there is nothing to gain, then there is no place for them. Our commitment to anything should go beyond benefits,

Scripture: Proverbs 2:1-13

“Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures” Proverbs 2:4 (NLT)

Knowledge is gotten through learning and experience but wisdom is a unique gift from God that can be gotten by earnestly seeking for it from God for He alone gives wisdom (v6). If, for example, you realize that your house is sitting on an oil well, nothing else will be relevant until you have dug and discovered the oil. This should be the mindset of any one whose desire is to acquire wisdom.

Scripture: Proverbs 20:1-12

“Indeed, there is not a righteous man on earth who always does good and who never sins” Ecclesiastes 7:20 (AMP)

The overconfident and self-righteous Christian is a source of constant offense to God (Proverbs 8:13). He is also a discouragement to other believers because they will find it difficult to relate with him due to his claim of perfection. When Christians act self-righteous, they push others away because their lifestyle appears unattainable and unrealistic.

Scripture: Matthew 26:47-56

“Better to be patient than powerful; better to have self-control than to conquer a city.” Proverbs 16:32 (NLT)

Emotions are a very sensitive part of our lives. This is because, if not properly managed and controlled, it can have a detrimental impact on our lives. Not every situation deserves a reaction especially when aimed at belittling your faith.

Scripture: Judges 8:29-35

“But then I recall all you have done…” Psalm 77:11a (NIV)

Not long after Gideon died, the children of Israel forgot God and also did not remember the kindness that Gideon had shown them. They returned to the worship of Baal. They allowed the killing of all but one of Gideon’s sons and made the killer their king.

Scripture: Proverbs 22:1-18

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6 (KJV)

It is imperative to be a source of relief to the poor amongst us and to help them the best way we can. Unfortunately, many avoid this and shy away from obeying this God-given command. We often prefer to give to the rich, who themselves live in abundance, in the erroneous belief that giving to the rich will bring us favour and reward.

Scripture: 1 Timothy 4:6-16

“For God is not a God of disorder but of peace - as in all the congregations of the saints.” 1 Corinthians 14:33 (NIV)

Folklore and myths are traditional beliefs and customs of a community passed down through word of mouth across several generations. Some of these traditions can hinder our spiritual growth, therefore, God makes it clear that we must completely do away with these old and detrimental belief systems in our lives if we must live effectively as true Christians.

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