THE TEMPLE OF GOD

Scripture: 1 Corinthians 6: 19 -20

 “In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth
unto an holy temple in the Lord.” Ephesians 2:21 (KJV)

A temple is a place dedicated for worship and by implication, the dwelling place of God. God no longer dwells in buildings made by man, but rather inside of man (Acts 7:48). You become God’s dwelling place when you get born again. Therefore, as a matter of priority, you have to do all that is needful to keep your body fit for God’s dwelling, at all times.

ARE YOU BORN AGAIN?

Scripture: John 3:1-15

“Flesh gives birth to flesh, but the Spirit gives birth to spirit.”
John 3:6 (NIV)

Many believers, like Nicodemus, are still confused or unsure as to what it means to be truly born again. It is the rebirth of one’s spirit by the Spirit of God (2 Corinthians 5:17). It is a transformation. It is the recreation of the human, an entirely brand new creature that is one with God. This is the basis of a relationship with God and it is His will and purpose for our lives.

GOD’S GRACE

Scripture: Ephesians 2:1-10

“Not of works, lest any man should boast.:”
Ephesians 2:9 (KJV)

People tend to reward others according to their actions. Some people pay evil for evil and repay good for good. Some religions believe that, the more good you do on earth, the easier your passage becomes into heaven. They, therefore, encourage their followers to do good works often but it takes the grace of God to do good.

THE HOPE OF GLORY

Scripture: Colossians 1:26-29

“To them God has chosen to make known among the Gentiles
the glorious riches of this mystery, which is Christ in you,
the hope of glory.” Colossians 1:27 (NIV)

Every believer has a hope. A hope of total fulfilment and rest. That hope is delivered to you the moment you receive Jesus as Lord here on earth. What is our hope? What is this glory? Think of a life free from struggle whether financial, health or relationship. Think of a life where you are blessed and a blessing. This is a mere tip of the iceberg compared to what God has in store for you and it all became available to you from the day you received Jesus into your life.

HOLD THE WORD

Scripture: Ezekiel 12:20-28

“Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not
pass away.” Matthew 24: 35 (KJV)

Many Christians still read the Bible as though it were a mere motivational book. Some believers receive prophesies and fail to act on it. They do not back the word they have heard with action because they doubt. The word is potent but you must believe it to have your desires.

God’s word is as a bond for the believer, for God says He will honour his word more than even his name.

AROMA OF LIFE

Scripture: 2 Corinthians 2:12-17

 “You are the salt of the earth. But what good is salt if it has
lost its flavour?” Matthew 5:13a (NLT)

There are two powerful senses a human possesses that bring him pleasure or displeasure; the sense of smell and the sense of taste. Spiritually as Christians, our lives are like a sweet smelling fragrance. This means that our lives bring pleasure to God and the people around us. Anything short of that experience means that we are under-performing.

GOD’S SOVEREIGN PLAN

Scripture: Acts 23:12-35

“I know the plans I have for you, plans for welfare and not for
calamity to give you a future and a hope.” Jeremiah 29:11 (NASB)

God loves you and has a wonderful plan for your life. Since he loves you and has great plans for you, he will ensure to that no evil gang up against you can stand. Whatever profession you choose or engage in, his plan is that you would live in such a manner that your life will bring glory and honour to His name.

ENEMIES WITHIN

Scripture: Acts 23:12-35

“A man’s enemies will be the members of his own household.”
Mathew 10:36 (NIV)

Sometimes, the stiffest oppositions we face come from people we expect to support us. They come from religious people rather than pagans, from family members rather than outsiders, from believers rather than unbelievers. Paul’s opposition came from the Jewish leaders; people who fasted and prayed religiously to show their zeal and dedication to God. Their actions should not stop you.

GOD’S PROVIDENCE

Scripture: Acts 23:12-35

“When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you
go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk
through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames
will not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2 (NLT)

Feedback: Share how your words and actions are influencing others for Christ.

God's providence is the means by which He carries out His sovereign plans. It means that God is not distant, passive or unconcerned with the daily events in our lives. Rather, he actively governs the daily events of our lives, usually behind the scenes, without in any way, robbing us of the duty of making responsible choices.

THE OLD MAN

Scripture: Ephesians 4:17-32

“What is causing the quarrels and fights among you?
Don’t they come from the evil desires at war within you?”
James 4:1 (NIV)

Our old nature can become a source of conflict even when we have accepted Jesus as Lord if we allow ourselves to do what we want rather than what God wants. The old nature, which is the flesh, will continue to fight the new nature of God that we have received by reason of the death of Jesus.

The old man or nature is self-seeking and lives to gratify its own desires but the new man seeks to glorify God.

WHEN GOD IS SILENT

Scripture: 1 Samuel 5:1-12

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.”
Psalms 46:1(NIV)

Have you ever been through a situation where you almost concluded that God was absent? That was what Israel’s situation can be likened to when the ark of God was captured by the Philistines. They must have concluded that the ark of God was no longer carrying His presence.

Even when it seemed as if God was silent, the scriptures shows us that God was not absent.

A WATERED GARDEN

Scripture: Isaiah 58:1-14

“And the LORD shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul
in drought, and make fat thy bones: and thou shall be like a
watered garden, and like a spring of water, whose waters fall not.”
Isaiah 58:11 (NKJV)

In a dry and thirsty land, there is nothing more beautiful or rarer than a lush garden of vibrant, healthy, well-irrigated flowers. It will be “Eden-like” to the passer-by and great refreshment to that soul. In an arid region characterized by severe lack of water, a flourishing garden will be the cynosure of all eyes. Its beauty will attract many to it.

THE MEEK

Scripture: Psalm 25:1-14

“The meek will be guided in judgment and the meek will he
teach his way.” Psalm 25:9 (KJV)

Meekness is a fruit of the Holy Spirit. It is an invaluable quality. The bible says the meek shall inherit the earth and shall delight them in the abundance of peace (Psalms 37:11). It is a virtue with a great reward but lacking among many believers. Meekness is being gentle, humble and showing submission.

CHRISTIAN EVIDENCE

Scripture: Matthew 12:33-37

“So produce fruit that is consistent with repentance
[demonstrating new behaviour that proves a change of heart,
and a conscious decision to turn away from sin].” Matthew 3:8 (AMP)

Trees bear fruit according to their kind. You can not expect to see grapes on an orange tree; that would be an error. A good tree will only bear good fruits.

Just as trees bear fruit that befit their kind so should believers exhibit character that befit repentance. Our actions must be synonymous with our faith. Your actions tell the state of your heart.

BEYOND OUTWARD APPEARANCE

Scripture: Galatians 5:1-15

“For it is by grace you have been saved through faith - and this
is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God – not by works, so that
no one can boast.” Ephesians 2:8-9 (NIV)

The Pharisees, during the days of Jesus, in an attempt to keep the Law, devised man-made laws. In doing this, they shifted focus from genuine transformation that comes from the heart. Their man-made laws spurred people to focus on showing compliance on the outside. If the profession of our faith does not come from a place of genuine change of heart, we make light the sacrifice of Jesus.

WHO DO YOU FOLLOW?

Scripture: Matthew 5:13-16

“Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.”
1 Corinthians 1:11 (NIV)

Feedback: Share how your words and actions are influencing others for Christ.

The smallest ray of light can illuminate even the darkest room. A little pinch of salt can enhance the taste of a bland meal. A leader is like that. He must be a person of influence. He is a person whose actions create a ripple effect of good; a person who provides direction like light does and enhances others just as salt does. However, to lead effectively, he must first follow. Who he follows is the key to his success as a leader.

SPIRIT PROVIDED INSIGHT

Scripture: Acts 23:1-11

“But when you are arrested and stand trial; don’t worry in advance
about what to say, just say what God tells you at that time, for it is
not you who will be speaking but the Holy Spirit.” Mark 13: 11 (NLT)

Have you ever been in a difficult situation you did not think you would escape? But when all hope seemed lost, you had a clear inspiration on what to do? The Holy Spirit is the force that triggers this clarity but only if you cooperate with him.

At first glance, Paul appeared to be surrounded by an unruly crowd united in their desire to literally tear him apart.

THE STING OF OFFENCE

Scripture: Matt 5:21-26

“Then said he unto the disciples, It is impossible but that offences
will come: but woe unto him, through whom they come.”
Luke 17:1 (KJV)

Often, Christians who feel offended by something in church, stop attending church. This is a ploy of the enemy to hinder God’s will in their lives. Offense comes from Satan because we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities and spiritual wickedness in high places so we must be alert (Ephesians 6:12, James 4:7).

ENCOURAGE YOUR TEAM

Scripture: Acts 20:1-2, 7-16

“Traveling through the country, passing from one gathering to
another, he gave constant encouragement, lifting their
spirits and charging them with fresh hope” Acts 20:2 (MSG)

To encourage someone means to give support, hope and confidence that spurs them to perform. When people are encouraged by others they respect or look up to, they feel valued. It may seem appropriate or easy to berate and scold people when they err; on the contrary, a word of encouragement may be the more productive and wise thing to give.

Paul was a mighty and very busy man of God. Inspite of his status and schedule, he took time out to encourage his team. He nourished, revived and strengthened them with words of hope (Acts 20:1-2). Too many times, leaders recount the things that have not been done well. They focus on the elements that are not working. The leader’s harsh and overbearing nature takes centre stage and things crumble further. No individuals desires to operate in this kind of environment. It is a toxic environment and people do not thrive in them.

AUTHORITY TO ACT

Scripture: Acts 25:17-21

“Therefore, to him that knoweth to do good,
and doeth it not, to him it is sin.” James 4: 17 (KJV)

Leaders are usually held responsible for their actions and inactions. A failure to act when the situation calls for it is as bad as making the wrong call. Every leader must understand that the authority to act is a vote of confidence in them and an important tool to bring good to many.

When the spiritual leaders of Israel ganged up against Paul, Governor Festus, did not see any justification for the various allegations. He had the authority to release him but he stalled in taking action. Festus refused to act on his own conviction. Even when he knew the right thing to do, he held back. Today, many leaders are like Festus. They toy with the lives of others for a variety of reasons ranging from fear of criticism to a lack of will. They blame others for their failure to act. When you know what to do and fail to act, the scriptures call it sin (James 4:17). The mantle of leadership is an opportunity to affect lives for good. It requires timely, wise and decisive action.

If you are a leader, you must overcome lethargy and act as befits your call. Do not be intimated by situations. Pay attention to building your leadership competence. Develop your ability to adequately assess situations and make decisions. If you lead in any capacity, whether secular or spiritual, you cannot afford to function without God. Just as Joshua and Moses made God the hallmark of their leadership, you need his wisdom and strength to navigate the paths of leadership so you can act wisely.

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

PRAYER: Lord, give me grace to use my authority wisely in Jesus name.


FAITH BYTE: I exercise my authority wisely. With the wisdom of God, I take timely and decisive action for good.

SPEAKING IN TONGUES

Scripture: Acts 2:1-12

“He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself.”
1 Corinthians 4:14a (KJV)

Speaking in tongues was the first spiritual gift that the apostles manifested after the baptism of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost. This pattern continues throughout the Book of Acts. Speaking in tongues, being the first vital spiritual gift to be given to believers after the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, is a very important gift that every Christian must yearn for, and cherish.

You edify yourself whenever you speak in tongues.

WRITE NO ONE OFF

Scripture: Matthew 9:9-13

“For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son,
that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.”
John 3:16 (NIV)

Salvation is not the prerogative of any individual. God has extended his hand of fellowship to anyone who is willing to say yes to him. Unfortunately, the human nature tends to segregate.

The Pharisees found it hard to believe that someone, who referred to himself as God, would eat with sinners (John 10:30).

OBEDIENCE IS THE KEY

Scripture: 1 Samuel 15:22-24

“I have glorified thee on the earth: I have finished the work
which thou gavest me to do.” John 17: 4 (KJV)

Obedience is the central theme that runs through the bible. The great feats accomplished by our Fathers of faith, such as Abraham and Jesus, were underlined by their obedience to God. The ones, who failed, did so as a result of disobedience. King Saul is a key example. Even today, the major
victories we accomplish is when we align in obedience to God’s word.

OPPORTUNITY IN DISGUISE

Scripture: John 11:38-44

“So they took away the tone. Then Jesus looked up and said,
“Father, I thank you that you have heard me. I knew that you
always hear me but I said this for the benefit of the people standing
here, that they may believe that you sent me” John 11:41-42 (NIV)

There is a wise saying that the dark times are nothing more than opportunity in disguise. This is especially true when it has to do with God. He knows just how to engineer affairs to turn out right.

When Jesus got to the tomb, where Lazarus, was buried,

GUILT LEADS TO DESTRUCTION

Scripture: Matthew 27:3-9

“But if we confess our sins to God, he can always be trusted to
forgive us and take our sins away.” 1 John 1:9 (CEV)

Guilt is one of the most destructive forces that can befall anyone. This is principally because it is a self-inflicted wound. The devil knows this and will always exploit this opportunity to bring the victim to total ruin. There is no reason why you should suffer and die in the guilt of past mistakes when
you have received Jesus.

HONOUR YOUR PARENTS

Scripture: Ephesians 6:1-3

“Honour your father and your mother, so that you may live
long in the land the Lord your God is giving you”
Exodus 20:12 (NIV)

It is important to God that you honour and respect your parents (Colossians 3:20). It is a requisite for long life and a fruitful relationship with God Himself (Ephesians 6:2). Note that your parent does not just refer to your biological parents alone, but also to your spiritual mothers and fathers. These are
your Pastors and Leaders in the ministry that God has placed over you.

A THOUSAND YEARS OF BLESSING

Scripture: 2 Peter 3:8-22

“But do not forget one thing, my dear friends! There is no
difference in the Lord’s sight between one day and a thousand
years; to Him the two are the same.” 2 Peter 3:8 (GNT)

Feedback: Ponder on how your sharing God’s word impact lives this past week

Our God is eternal. He exists beyond the confinement of time. The Psalmist declares that a thousand years are like a day or a short hour to God (Psalms 90:4). Many read this and only acknowledge the reference made to the immortality of God. However, this statement also means that whatever could take men a thousand years to accomplish, God could achieve and exceed it overnight.

Whenever we pray and answers seem to delay,