My story chronicles God’s search for me. I was not looking for Him. He was looking for me. Who prompted the Adventists to survey the neighbourhood? Who guided Mrs Jones to refer them to my family? Who influenced my parents’ decision to move out of that neighbourhood? Who impressed the deacons to come by later? Who inspired my father to visit the deacon in the hospital? Who led the deacon to ask me to do him a favour? Who gave me the will to say yes? It was God orchestrating the events of my life to position me for an opportunity to receive the gospel!

Therefore, for every living person, God is searching. God is still orchestrating the events in our lives to bring us salvation. It does not matter if you grew up within or outside the church; God is seeking and searching to save you. There is no one so evil or corrupted that God does not pursue. There is no life so damaged that the power of the gospel cannot redeem! There is no one who has sunk so low that the power of the gospel cannot uplift. There is no life so sin-stained that the power of the gospel cannot cleanse. Where sin did abound, grace did much more abound. The Bible is a rich tapestry of stories of God’s search for humankind to give us hope in the potency of the gospel. God is no respecter of persons. The good news of the gospel is that God is in search of you! Has He found you? If not, He is still looking!

Jesus said to him, “Today salvation has come to this house, because this man, too, is a son of Abraham. For the Son of Man came to seek and to save.” (Luke 19:9-10)

Let’s Pray

Dear Lord, I know that I am a sinner, and I ask for Your forgiveness. I believe You died for my sins and rose from the dead. I turn from my sins and invite You to come into my heart and life. I want to trust and follow You as my Lord and Saviour. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Christian and Alcylene began reading the Bible together. In just 30 days they had read it completely. Christian found all the answers he had been looking for. Their family life was transformed and Christian was baptized. He began to teach the Bible, giving Bible studies and holding evangelistic meetings. Within 13 years of being baptized, their family had built six churches with their own resources and contributed to the construction of 22 more churches in the Autazes region of the Amazon jungle.

Does the Bible contain transformative power? Does it give life a purpose and a mission? By the grace of God and through a sincere study of the Word, Christian became a new creature. The many people touched by him and his family are a testimony to God’s amazing grace and His divine plan.

“If anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation.” (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Let’s Pray

Lord, Your scripture teaches us that life and death are in the power of the tongue. I desire to speak life into my circumstances, to declare Your promises with faith, and to see Your will manifest in my life and the lives of those around me. May Your Word in my mouth be a tool for healing, restoration, and transformation, breaking chains and setting captives free. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

As the world gets ready to celebrate the scariest time of the year “Halloween.” A time when evil is celebrated, and instilling fear is the order of the day.  Friends, whether you like it or not in life, fear will come knocking at the door, selling you the worst case scenario, the devil’s “trick or treat.“ Fear tells you, “You’re going to lose your job. Your marriage is over. Your business is falling apart. Your child is done. It’s all downhill from here.” When those thoughts come, you don’t have to buy in to them. Here’s the key: when fear knocks, let faith answer the door. Don’t give those thoughts of fear the time of day. Don’t let them intimidate you. Answer back with faith. “Lord, You said the number of my days You would fulfil. God, you said Your plans for me are for good and not evil. God, You said what’s meant for my harm, You would turn around and use it to my advantage.” 

Today, don’t give in to the pressure of the world or the devil’s lies. Keep an attitude of faith and expectancy, it’s like keeping the door locked on an intruder. Fear has no right in the life of a believer. Greater is He who is in you than he who is in the world. Remember, the battle is subtle for you and your children’s minds. The enemy is after your thoughts. Don’t give him the time of day; and remember when fear knocks, let faith answer! 

“For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms.” (Ephesians 6:12).

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I thank You for Your Word which says that You have not given me a spirit of fear but power, love, and a sound mind. Today and always, I rebuke the evil spirit of compromise and fear, in Jesus’ name. I receive peace in my heart and mind and stand strong in faith knowing that the greater One lives in me than he that is in the world. Hallelujah! Father, I pray for great faith in my life today so that fear is driven out, in Jesus’ name. Amen. 

I woke up this morning with so much on my mind. What about you? Are you facing a challenge today that seems overwhelming? Through faith and patience, God’s Word says that you will see His promises come to pass in your life. Understand that the enemy always fights the hardest when he knows you are closest to your breakthrough. He’d leave you alone if he thought you were going to live in mediocrity and normality. But if you’ll keep pressing toward your promise and following the Word of God, you will get there. 

Today, I admonish you, don’t be like the Israelites in the Old Testament, who were right next to their promised land when they talked themselves out of it. They said, “There are giants in the land. It’s too difficult.” No, don’t look at the obstacles in your life today; lift up your eyes because you serve a mighty God. Instead, follow the example of Abraham, David and others who believed God even when their circumstances looked impossible.

Remember, God rewards the people who seek after Him. Stand in faith and keep believing, because God will take you places that you never dreamed. As you press towards the promise, you will see His hand of blessing, and you will live in the victory He has prepared for you.

“…Imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised” (Hebrews 6:12)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I come to You today choosing to believe Your promises. Believing that my dreams will come true. I lift up my eyes to You, ready to receive Your strength and blessings. God, I beg You today, fill me with Your faith and patience as I press forward with today’s challenges into the victories You have in store for me! In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

Do you want to experience more of God’s blessings in your life? Living in obedience and integrity is the key that unlocks the door to His abundance. When you put God and His Word first place in your life, the Bible says you’ll be blessed in the city and the country, you’ll be blessed wherever you go!

Today’s chapter in the scriptures says that you will be so blessed that you will lend and not borrow. Can you see yourself in that position? Can you see yourself living in that kind of abundance?

See, God doesn’t want you to be living with a barely-get-by attitude. We don’t serve a barely-get-by God; our God is more than enough! He wants you to have more than enough to meet your needs and be a blessing to the people around you.

Today, I encourage you to make room in your life for the blessing of God. Choose to live in obedience to His Word. Choose to follow His commands. As you do, you will rise up higher and live the abundant life God has for you!

“If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all His commands…you will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country” (Deuteronomy 28:1-3)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for Your hand of blessing on my life. Father, I choose today to put You first in everything I do. Lord, please help me to walk in integrity and follow Your commands so that I can honour You always. In Jesus’ Name, Amen.

When I was a teenager, one of the few books I read was “A Strength To Love” by Dr Martin Luther King Jr. – who became one of my heroes. He practised the ministry of non-violence during the Civil Rights movement of the 1960s. He went to jail again and again because he believed the message of Jesus’ love. King believed that standing up and suffering for justice would change America for the better. He was right. King preached some of his best sermons from a jail cell. In a way, he kept company with the apostle Paul, for Paul too, was known to deliver some hard-hitting messages from prison.

Scripture says during his two years under house arrest, Paul showed hospitality regardless of his situation or who came to see him. Paul did not embrace despair. He was not interested in being cast as a victim. He resisted bitterness about his plight.

Dr King and Paul held close to the words of Isaiah 40:31 “Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They … will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” In God’s strength, they preached, lived, prayed, and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ the only way they knew how – “boldly and without hindrance.” The last words written about Paul in the Book of Acts are full of zest and energy. In Christ, we feel our lives fill up with courage and purpose. I want to live that kind of life, what about you?

Boldly … he preached the kingdom of God and taught about the Lord Jesus Christ. (Acts 28:31)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, give me the boldness and courage to live my life for you, both in times of constraint and freedom. In the name of our precious Saviour, I pray, Amen.

Daily I hear of friends or love ones who die or fall seriously ill. Today is a special gift from God. Sometimes, my days can be so full and busy that I forget how fragile life really is. The little things try to creep in and steal my peace and joy.

When things don’t go your way, or someone says something upsetting – even traffic can cause you to lose focus if you let it. We have to remember that Almighty God ordains each day. If we choose to focus on the wrong things, we’ll miss the blessings each day has to offer.

Today, don’t let the precious moments of life pass you by. Don’t wait for holidays and birthdays to show people that you care. Remember, each day is unique and irreplaceable. You have been given time that can be invested or wasted; hours that can be used or misused. That’s why the psalmist prayed to God, “Teach us to number our days.” He was saying, “Teach us to value every moment we’ve been given.”

“Teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” (Psalm 90:12)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for the gift of today. I choose to focus on the blessings of each moment instead of allowing the little things to steal my joy. Lord I know today is all I have, so help me not to waste it on that which is destructive and negative. God, keep me close to You always and show me the treasure of each and every second, minute and day. I embrace todays blessings and victories, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

Do you know what pleases God? He’s not impressed by how much knowledge we have. He isn’t influenced by how many possessions we own. Our accomplishments do not move him; He is moved simply by our faith in Him.

Faith is a gift. It’s not something that has to be contrived or worked up. The scripture tells us that everyone has been given a measure of faith. It also says that faith grows as we hear the Word of God. That’s why staying connected to a Bible-based church where the Word of God is being taught is so important. It’s why we need to make time every day to read and study His Word; that’s how you feed your faith. The more you know His Word, the more you understand that God is good, and He rewards the people who seek after Him.

Today, take time to feed your faith. Meditate on His Word and ask Him to illuminate your heart with His truth. Trust that He is good and has good things in store for your future because faith is what pleases God!

“And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” (Hebrews 11:6)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for giving me the gift of faith so that I can be pleasing to You. Father, as I seek You and study Your Word, illuminate my heart with Your truth. Transform me into Your image and let everything I do bring glory to You, in Christ’s name. Amen.

Life is full of highs and lows, twists and turns, and ups and downs. But did you know that everything you’ve been through up until now is preparing you for what God is going to do with you and for you? No trial, challenge or difficulty you’ve been through has been wasted. Every disappointment, setback, every person that did you wrong, every lonely night, God is going to turn around and use for your good! Hallelujah! 

Every difficulty helps us grow and mature. When our faith is stretched, our character is developed and made stronger. God didn’t send that hardship, but He’ll use it to get you prepared for your next step. Those adversities will mould you into the person you are called to be. 

Today, you may be experiencing tough times, but remember, God is growing you, maturing you, and stretching your faith. Have the attitude that says, “This is a new day. Things are shifting for my good. This difficulty is not going to stop me. It’s going to elevate me. God is going to use it to lift me up and lead me into victory all the days of my life!” 

“And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank You for delivering me through some hard trials. Father, I will always dwell in Your presence. I know that with You, no trial will defeat me and all things will work out for my good. God, I thank You for Your peace and protection as You carry me through the difficult places, into the place of victory. In Christ’s Name! Amen. 

As followers of Christ, we have much to consider, learn from, and celebrate during Black History Month. When Akyaaaba Addai-Sebo started Black History Month in 1987, he called us to “seize the opportunity to honour the too-often neglected accomplishments of black people. Black History Month allows Christians to go well beyond just honouring accomplishments. We can examine our human pride, pursue reconciliation and forgiveness, and grow in celebrating God’s good gift of diversity.

Today we can look at three lessons from scripture that express the deeper meanings of Black History Month.

Lesson 1. We recognize the image of God in every person.

So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them. (Genesis 1:27)

Black History Month is an important time to reflect on the struggles, sacrifices, and accomplishments of Africans, Caribbean and other blacks throughout our nation’s history. It is also an important opportunity to recognize God’s image in every person, regardless of their background or ethnicity. As Christians, we are called to love our neighbours and treat them with respect, as they were all created in the image of God, and therefore, are all equal in His eyes. Some can use this time to examine how they may have contributed to racism and injustice in the past, and how we can work to make our society more equitable and just moving forward.

Lesson 2. We embrace the power of forgiveness.

Forgive us the wrongs we have done, as we forgive the wrongs that others have done to us. (Matthew 6:12)

The power of forgiveness is key to our faith, and it is especially important to remember during Black History Month. We must forgive those who have wronged us and ask for forgiveness from those we have wronged. The only way to move forward in a spirit of love and understanding is to work on healing the wounds of our past.

Lesson 3.  We celebrate our differences.

There before me was a great multitude that no one could count, from every nation, tribe, people and language, standing before the throne and before the Lamb. (Revelation 7:9)

Today black History Month is not just about recognizing our past, but also about celebrating our differences—differences that will make us a beautiful tapestry when we all stand before Yahshua at the end of time. We can use this time to celebrate the contributions black people have made to our society and to appreciate the beauty and diversity of all cultures. By celebrating our differences, we can create a more inclusive, equitable, and just society for everyone.

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, today we remember the struggles of our people of African descent. Thank you for your grace, your love, and your mercy. Lord, we thank you for the leaders that you continue to place in high places and ordinary places. Please inspire each of us to work more faithfully for justice and dignity of life everywhere. Lord God, we remember the hurts of exclusion and prejudice, but we know that you can raise our vision above all barriers and give us wisdom and courage to make this a better world. As you give us yourself in the Bread of Hope and the Cup of Mercy – show us how to give ourselves to those who are without hope and to those who cry for mercy. God, take control in this hour so we will go from this day with the freedom of those who trust in you. In Christ’s name, Amen.

The love of Jesus Christ is one of the most profound and transformative forces in the world. It transcends time, culture, and personal background, offering hope, healing, and purpose to all who accept it. Whether you’ve grown up in a Christian home or are encountering Jesus for the first time, His love stands as an eternal beacon of grace and truth, drawing people into a relationship with God.

A Love Beyond Understanding

The Bible often speaks of God’s love through Jesus as immeasurable, boundless, and unfathomable. In Ephesians 3:18-19, Paul prays that we might “have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge.” It is a love that goes beyond human understanding because it is divine and perfect, originating from a heart that knows no limits.

While human love can sometimes be conditional, fleeting, or imperfect, the love of Jesus is steadfast and eternal. It is a love that seeks us out, even when we feel unworthy. It’s a love that embraces us in our brokenness, that sees our flaws and yet accepts us without hesitation. Jesus’ love is not something we earn, but something we receive as a gift through faith.

Sacrificial Love: Jesus’ Greatest Act

Perhaps the greatest demonstration of Jesus’ love for humanity is His willingness to lay down His life for us. In John 15:13, Jesus says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” Jesus exemplified this love through His death on the cross, where He took on the weight of the world’s sin so that we could be reconciled with God. His sacrifice wasn’t just for a select few; it was for every single person, past, present, and future.

This sacrificial love calls us into a new way of living. It invites us to lay down our own lives—not necessarily in physical death, but in surrendering our selfish desires, egos, and control, trusting that Jesus’ way leads to abundant life.

A Love That Heals and Restores

The love of Jesus doesn’t just save; it heals and restores. Throughout the Gospels, we see countless examples of Jesus reaching out to the hurting, the marginalized, and the brokenhearted. He healed the sick, gave sight to the blind, and brought comfort to those in despair. He didn’t shy away from those considered “untouchable” or “unworthy” by society. Instead, He embraced them, showing that His love knows no boundaries.

Today, that same love continues to bring healing. Whether you’re dealing with physical ailments, emotional wounds, or spiritual emptiness, Jesus’ love offers peace and restoration. His love fills the voids left by life’s hardships and reminds us that we are never alone in our struggles.

A Call to Share His Love

One of the beautiful aspects of Jesus’ love is that it calls us to love others in the same way. In John 13:34-35, Jesus gives a new command: “Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By this everyone will know that you are my disciples if you love one another.”

We are called to be reflections of His love in the world. This means extending grace, forgiveness, and kindness to others—even when it’s difficult. It’s about loving people where they are, just as Jesus loves us in our imperfections. Through acts of compassion and service, we become living examples of Christ’s love and draw others into experiencing His transforming power.

Living in the Love of Jesus

To fully embrace and live in the love of Jesus is to experience a profound shift in our lives. It gives us a sense of purpose, knowing that we are cherished by the Creator of the universe. His love assures us that we are valued, no matter what the world may say, and that our worth is not determined by external achievements but by the fact that we are His.

This love is also a source of hope. In times of uncertainty, pain, or fear, we can rest in the promise that nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus (Romans 8:38-39). His love is a constant presence, offering comfort and strength no matter what we face.

Conclusion: An Invitation to Experience His Love

The love of Jesus is more than a theological concept or an ideal to strive for—it is a reality that transforms lives. It is patient, kind, enduring, and accessible to all who seek it. Whether you are familiar with His love or are just beginning your journey, Jesus invites you to experience the depth of His compassion and grace.

May we all be inspired to not only receive this love but to share it with the world around us. In doing so, we become conduits of His peace, joy, and hope, allowing others to see the beauty of living in the love of Christ.

Many people don’t fully understand what it means to forget the past. Do I do away with my history? Do I make myself vulnerable again? How do I forget something that’s happened to me?” Some of the biblical definitions of this phrase is to ‘disregard intentionally’, to ‘overlook or to cease reliving the pain’.

In practical terms, what this verse is saying, is that you have to choose to disregard your past so that it doesn’t keep you from moving forward. That means the good and the bad. Even our past victories can sometimes keep us from rising higher. If we don’t let go of the old, we’ll never be able to embrace the new. 

Today, it doesn’t matter what’s happened in your history, it’s time to forget what‘s stopping you from moving forward. Make the choice today to look forward. Trust that God has a better future in store for you, with greater blessings, favour and massive victories. Hallelujah! Trust Him. As you forget pain, hurt and even some self-centered victories, press forward and you will see the abundant life the Lord has in store for you! 

“…I focus on this one thing: Forgetting the past and looking forward to what lies ahead.” (Philippians 3:13) 

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I choose to forget the past that holds me back and makes me vulnerable. Father, I don’t want anything to hold me back from the good future You have prepared for me. God, I choose forgiveness and ask that You help me, by Your Holy Spirit, to press forward in every area of my life. In Christ’s Name! Amen.  

If It Had Not Been For The Lord Where Would You Be?

In the UK it’s black history month. As I look back at where God has bought us from, “through many dangers’ toils and snares…,” – I can say “if it had not been for the goodness of God, where would we be?” Some wouldn’t be alive today. Some would still be mentally messed up. If it had not been for God’s favour and love, some would still be struggling, barely making it. You may say, “we haven’t made it very far, we’ve got a long way to go.” And that may be true, but black or not, I want you to take a moment and look back over your life and realise how far you’ve come. The same God that brought you this far, the same God that has kept you alive, is going to carry you through any difficulty you may be facing.

Today, just start praising and thanking God for what He is doing and what He has done. Thank Him for His love and favour and blessings upon you. Praise precedes the victory. Praise brings the walls of opposition down. Praise is the invitation for God to intervene on your behalf! Friend, I declare that the goodness of God is all over you! He is directing your steps, and you are following His leading. I declare that your best days are ahead, and as you praise Him and thank Him, you will move forward into the victory and blessing He has prepared for you!

“If your law had not been my delight, I would have perished in my affliction.” (Psalm 119:92)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You so much for Your consistent goodness and faithfulness in my life, and the lives of my forefathers. I don’t know where we would have been without You. We were mistreated beaten and abused, but what the devil meant for bad, You have used it to make us stronger. Hallelujah! Father, I know that Your hand of favour is upon me. I know that You are leading me and guiding me in victory. I won’t give up, please keep me close to You, as I surrender every area of my heart and mind to You, in Christ’ Name! Amen.

God, through scripture, calls us into acceptance and understanding within the Christian community, especially concerning “opinions.” This refers to issues where the Bible does not provide direct commands or prohibitions—areas where believers are free to hold differing viewpoints. These might include dietary habits, observance of certain days, or other practices not central to salvation.

In the bible, Paul’s instruction to not quarrel over opinions reminds us that our unity in Christ transcends individual differences in non-essential beliefs. The early church, like ours today, was diverse, with members coming from various backgrounds and holding varying convictions on disputable matters. Paul emphasizes that such diversity should not lead to division but rather be approached with love and respect.

When scripture says, “Welcoming those weak in faith”, it doesn’t mean we dilute the truth or compromise essential doctrines. Instead, it means we recognize the journey of faith is different for each person, and we’re called to support one another in love, without causing disputes over non-essential issues.

Today, as you reflect on this verse, consider how you approach disputable matters within your faith community. Are you contributing to unity or division? Let’s strive to create an environment where all can grow in faith, rooted in the essential truth of the Gospel, while extending grace and understanding in areas of personal conviction.

As for the one who is weak in faith, welcome him, but not to quarrel over opinions. (Romans 14:1)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, forgive me for the times when I have not acted in godly love toward my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ who may be weaker in the faith than I, and who may hold to some practices and biases from which I have been set free. Keep me from developing a critical spirit toward other members of Your Body and help me not to do anything from selfish ambition or conceit. In humility of heart, may I count others more significant than myself. This I ask in Jesus’ name, amen.

In Psalm 91, we see amazing imagery, which pictures God as a protective bird, sheltering us under His wings, we find a profound sense of safety and comfort. Just as a bird covers its young with its feathers to protect them from harm, God covers us with His omnipotent care. Under His wings, we find a sanctuary where the world’s troubles cannot reach us. This is not merely physical protection but also emotional and spiritual.

In scripture, God’s faithfulness as our shield and rampart, further emphasizes His unbreakable commitment to our wellbeing. His faithfulness isn’t passive; it’s an active, powerful force that surrounds and fortifies us against life’s trials and tribulations.

Today in moments of fear, uncertainty, or danger, visualize yourself being covered under His mighty wings, safe and secure from all harm. Trust in His protective presence and unwavering faithfulness. Seek refuge in God’s presence, especially in times when you feel vulnerable or overwhelmed. Remember, in His care, you will always find a place of safety, strength, and peace.

He will cover you with his feathers, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart. (Psalm 91:4)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank you that those who dwell in the shelter of the Most High will find rest in the shadow of the Almighty. Father, thank you for being our Mighty protector. Thank you for covering us, sheltering us, and keeping us from harm. You are faithful. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Today’s verse urges us to be vigilant against anything that can usurp God’s rightful place in our hearts. In today’s context, idols are not just graven images but anything that takes priority over God. Someone once said that idols are a “God Substitute.” They can be subtle, such as an excessive focus on careers, relationships, material possessions, or even our desires and ambitions. These modern-day idols can distract us from our primary purpose of loving and serving God. As His children, we are called to live in a way that honours our Father, keeping our hearts and minds focused on Him.

To stop our idol worship, we must cultivate a deep and personal relationship with God, allowing His Word and Spirit to guide our priorities and decisions. Regular self-examination and prayer can help us identify and remove any idols that may have crept into our lives.

Today, as you think about modern-day idolatry, consider what idols might be vying for your attention and affection. Ask God to help you recognise and remove anything that hinders your relationship with Him. Guard your heart, and live with undivided devotion to the One who deserves your utmost love and allegiance.

Little children, keep yourselves from idols. (1 John 5:21)

Yahweh, I come before you today and ask for your guidance and protection. Father, I know that idols can distract me from your love and lead me down the wrong path. Please help me to keep my heart and mind focused on you, and to resist the temptation to worship anything or anyone else. Please give me the strength to turn away from anything that might lead me astray, and to always seek your will in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.