Fear Can Keep Us From God’s Blessings

If you know me, you would know that one thing that really gets to me is Christians that operate on fear as opposed to faith. I declare that many people today live with less than God’s best because they’ve allowed fear to creep in and take root in their lives. Fear is the number one negative emotion and the enemy’s greatest weapon to try to hold us back. Fear is not from God. Scripture tells us that fear brings torment. Over a hundred times we are told to “fear not.” It’s designed to paralyse us and keep us from God’s blessings.

I’ve got good news! God-given faith is greater than your fear. His power in you is greater than any power that comes against you. Hallelujah! In order to walk in His power, you have to close the door on the enemy, the enemy can’t have access to your life unless you open a door and give him access. That’s why we have to be careful about what we watch, what we listen to, what we read, what we say and who we hang with. When we open ourselves to fear, we give the enemy opportunity.

Today, if you’ve allowed fear to steal from you in any area of your life, you can be free, you can be finished with fear. Conquering the enemy starts by making the choice to close the door on fear, and instead, meditate on God’s promises and His sacrifice. For the Word says we overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word of our testimony! Let His truth and what He has done for you sink down into your heart. Declare it out of your mouth. Let God set you free by praising Him, and watch Him lead you into victory as you close the door on fear!

“Do not give the devil an opportunity to work.” (Ephesians 4:27)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I come to You today declaring that I am finished with fear. Father, thank You for giving me power, love and a sound mind. I declare I will stand on Your promises and share all You have done for me, because that will make me overcome fear and other negatives in my life. Fill me with Your peace and joy today, as I move forward in victory with You, in Christ’s’ Name! Amen.

Body Building

As believers, we are called to live in community, walking side by side in this journey of faith. Paul reminds the Thessalonian church that their responsibility is to encourage and strengthen one another. In a world that often tears down, the church should be a place where people find healing, hope and support. Encouragement is not simply giving compliments, but speaking life and truth into someone’s situation, reminding them of God’s promises and their worth in Christ.

Building one another up requires intentional effort. Sometimes, it means walking with a friend through their struggles, offering a listening ear, or pointing them back to the truth of God’s Word when they are overwhelmed by doubt or fear. As the body of Christ, when one member is weak, the others can rally around to strengthen and support them.

Today consider how you can you build someone up. Consider who in your life may need encouragement. A simple word of affirmation, a prayer, or even practical help can be a powerful way to demonstrate God’s love. In doing so, we become vessels of God’s grace, creating a community that reflects His Kingdom.

Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.” (1 Thessalonians 5:11)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, help me to see those around me who need encouragement today. Father, give me the right words to build up and not tear down. Holy Spirit, strengthen me to support others with love and grace. May we be a beacon of hope and a reminder of your unwavering love. Help us to be mindful of our words and actions, striving to uplift and build up, rather than tear down. We pray for the healing of wounds, the restoration of broken spirits, and the strengthening of our faith. May we continue to grow in love and unity. In Christ name, Amen. 

Contentment & Strength

True contentment is a rare jewel in a world obsessed with more—more possessions, success, or recognition. Yet, Paul reminds us that contentment is not rooted in circumstances but in Christ. Whether enduring hardship or enjoying abundance, Paul had discovered the “secret” of being satisfied: drawing strength from Jesus.

We often look to external conditions for fulfillment. When things go well, we rejoice; when challenges come, we falter. But Paul’s testimony calls us to anchor our hope in the unchanging strength of Christ. His power sustains us in every situation, enabling us to rise above circumstances with peace and trust.

Today Do you find your contentment shaken by life’s ups and downs? Reflect on God’s faithfulness in every season. He has carried you through challenges and blessed you with His provision. With Christ as your strength, you can face life with unwavering confidence. So choose to lean on Jesus, knowing that His grace is sufficient for every need.

“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:11-13)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I thank you for your strength in difficult times. I am learning to be content, not because I am lacking, but because I know I can do all things through your strength. Thank you for providing for me, even when I don’t understand. Help me to see your provision and learn to be content in every circumstance. Help me to not be anxious about the future, but to have confidence in your power and your love. Grant me the strength and wisdom to face whatever challenges come my way. I pray this in the name of Christ, Amen.

Contentment & Strength

True contentment is a rare jewel in a world obsessed with more—more possessions, success, or recognition. Yet, Paul reminds us that contentment is not rooted in circumstances but in Christ. Whether enduring hardship or enjoying abundance, Paul had discovered the “secret” of being satisfied: drawing strength from Jesus.

We often look to external conditions for fulfillment. When things go well, we rejoice; when challenges come, we falter. But Paul’s testimony calls us to anchor our hope in the unchanging strength of Christ. His power sustains us in every situation, enabling us to rise above circumstances with peace and trust.

Today Do you find your contentment shaken by life’s ups and downs? Reflect on God’s faithfulness in every season. He has carried you through challenges and blessed you with His provision. With Christ as your strength, you can face life with unwavering confidence. So choose to lean on Jesus, knowing that His grace is sufficient for every need.

“I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” (Philippians 4:11-13)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I thank you for your strength in difficult times. I am learning to be content, not because I am lacking, but because I know I can do all things through your strength. Thank you for providing for me, even when I don’t understand. Help me to see your provision and learn to be content in every circumstance. Help me to not be anxious about the future, but to have confidence in your power and your love. Grant me the strength and wisdom to face whatever challenges come my way. I pray this in the name of Christ, Amen.

Customised Grace

God’s grace is not just a broad, general blessing but is also personal, tailored specifically for you. In Ephesians 4:7, Paul reminds us that Christ has apportioned grace to each believer according to His perfect plan. This means that whatever challenges you face, whatever calling God has placed on your life, He has given you the exact measure of grace to meet those needs.

We often feel inadequate, unsure if we have what it takes to live out our faith, lead our families, or fulfill our God-given responsibilities. But this verse reassures us that God doesn’t leave us to fend for ourselves. He equips us with the grace needed for each task, each trial, and each triumph.

Today, when you’re feeling overwhelmed or unworthy, remember that God’s grace is not limited or random. It is custom-fit for your circumstances. As you trust Him, His grace will sustain you in your weaknesses and empower you to walk in the good works He has prepared for you. Where do you need God’s grace today? Whether in relationships, work, or personal growth, rest in the truth that He has already given you the grace you need to succeed.

“But to each one of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it.” (Ephesians 4:7)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank you for your abundant grace and for the unique gift you have given me through Christ. I pray that I may use this gift to glorify your name and build up your church. May I be a channel of your love and a witness to your power. I ask that I may be filled with your wisdom and understanding, that I may know how to best use my gifts for your purpose. In Christ name,Amen. 

Is Your Tongue Untameable 

James highlights the paradoxical nature of the tongue. While humans have mastered the art of taming animals, the tongue remains beyond control. It is described as a restless evil and full of deadly poison, capable of immense harm.

What makes this more troubling is the tongue’s inconsistency. With it, we praise God and then curse others who are made in His image. James challenges believers to consider the contradiction of such behavior. How can we genuinely honor God while using the same mouth to harm those He loves?

Today, ask God to help you be consistent in your words, using your speech to praise, encourage, and uplift others. Using analogies from nature, James drives home the point: just as a spring cannot produce both fresh and salt water, so a heart devoted to God should not produce harmful speech. Our words reflect the condition of our hearts, and we are called to let the Holy Spirit transform both.

“All kinds of animals, birds, reptiles and sea creatures are being tamed and have been tamed by mankind, but no human being can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With the tongue we praise our Lord and Father, and with it we curse human beings, who have been made in God’s likeness. Out of the same mouth come praise and cursing. My brothers and sisters, this should not be. Can both fresh water and salt water flow from the same spring? My brothers and sisters, can a fig tree bear olives, or a grapevine bear figs? Neither can a salt spring produce fresh water.” ( James 3:7-12)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I come before you today, recognizing the power of my tongue, both to bless and to curse. Father, you have said that life and death are in the power of the tongue, and I confess that I have sometimes used my words to cause harm and offense. I ask for your forgiveness for the times I have spoken unkindly, judgmentally, or carelessly. Grant me, Lord, the wisdom and grace to use my tongue for good, to speak words of encouragement, love, and truth. Help me to be a gentle tongue, a tree of life. Lord, I ask for the Holy Spirit’s guidance and control, so that I may always speak words that build up and heal, rather than tear down and wound. May my words always reflect your love and your glory. In Christ’ name, Amen. 

Quick To Listen Slow To Speak

Quick To Listen Slow To Speak

In a world that often values quick responses and strong opinions, James’s words remind us of the wisdom found in patience and humility. Listening well requires intentional focus and an open heart. When we truly listen, we honor others, creating space for understanding and connection. Listening can reveal the truth of a situation, provide insight into another’s heart, and allow God’s wisdom to shape our responses.

This verse challenges us to respond in a way that reflects Christ’s character, especially in tense or difficult situations. As we practice listening and measured speech, we become vessels for peace, promoting understanding instead of division.

Today, being “slow to speak” and “slow to anger” is not about passivity, but about maintaining self-control. Hasty words, often spoken in moments of frustration, can wound deeply and damage relationships. But when we pause, we invite the Holy Spirit to work within us, tempering our words with grace. This approach transforms our relationships, allowing us to reflect Christ’s love to others.

My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.”  (James 1:19)

Prayer Points:

  1. Ask God to help you be more attentive and patient when listening to others.
  2. Pray for self-control over your words, that they would be kind and thoughtful.
  3. Seek God’s help in managing anger, allowing His peace to rule in your heart.

Let’s pray

Yahweh, I pray that you would help me to be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger, as you instruct in your word. I acknowledge that I am often quick to respond and sometimes struggle with controlling my anger. I ask for your grace to help me listen more attentively, think before speaking, and to process my emotions in a way that honors you.  Help me to be humble and receptive to your Word, surrendering my pride and seeking your wisdom in difficult situations. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Wisdom

Wisdom in the biblical sense goes beyond mere knowledge or intelligence. It’s about understanding life from God’s perspective and applying His principles to our daily decisions. It’s the wisdom that helps us navigate complex situations, discern right from wrong, and choose paths that align with God’s will.

The assurance that God gives wisdom generously and without reproach is particularly comforting. It means that whenever we feel inadequate or unsure, we can turn to Him and He will graciously provide the guidance we need. We don’t have to fear being judged or turned away; God is always ready to listen and respond.

In our journey of faith, it’s important to remember to seek God’s wisdom regularly. Whether we face big life choices or daily challenges, we can approach God’s throne with confidence, asking for His wisdom to guide us. In moments of uncertainty, pause and pray, seeking God’s wisdom above all else. Trust that He will provide clarity and direction, guiding your steps according to His perfect wisdom and love.

If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh , thank you for giving me a new day. Today, I’m in need of your wisdom. There are decisions facing me that I am uncertain about, but I don’t want to get stuck thinking I have to make the perfect decision and therefore delay making any decision at all. You know my dilemma, Lord, but you also know that I desire to please you. So block out all other voices so that I’m laser-focused on you. Thank you, Father. I love you and trust you to lead me in paths of righteousness for your name’s sake. Amen.

COMFORT TO COMFORT OTHERS

In Todays verse we are reminded of the beautiful cycle of comfort that flows from the heart of God. He is described as the “Father of mercies” and the “God of all comfort.” His compassionate nature is the wellspring from which comfort flows abundantly. God’s comfort is not merely for our personal experience but has a greater purpose – to equip us to comfort others. We are comforted in our tribulations so that we may extend that same comfort to others who are struggling.

Think of the times when God’s comforting presence enveloped you in moments of despair or uncertainty. Those experiences were not just for your benefit; they were meant to equip you to be a source of comfort to others. As recipients of God’s comfort, we are entrusted with a sacred mission. We are called to be conduits of His comfort, bringing peace, hope, and encouragement to those around us who are facing their own trials. In this divine exchange, we discover the profound truth that God’s comfort multiplies through us. As we extend His love and comfort to others, we become instruments of His grace and His comfort continues to flow, touching lives, and bringing healing to wounded souls.

Today, we need to embrace our role as comforters, knowing that as we share the comfort we’ve received, we participate in God’s beautiful plan of extending His love and compassion to a hurting world.

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort,  who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. (2 Corinthians 1:3-4)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh of all comfort, our very present help in trouble, be near to me. Look on me with the eyes of your mercy; comfort me with a sense of your presence; preserve me from the enemy; and give me patience in my affliction. Restore me to health and lead me to your eternal glory so I can comfort others through Jesus Christ my Lord. Amen.

Change Me Lord! 

When we ask God to change us or fix us and He begins to do a work in our lives, things can get a little uncomfortable before we see change, or whilst He is changing us. We may encounter people who are hard to get along with or experience circumstances that seem beyond our control. When this happens, instead of getting upset or complaining, just pause and say, “Lord, thank You for doing a work in me.” 

Did you know, God is more interested in changing you than He is in changing your circumstances? If you choose to stay sour because you’re not getting your own way, or if you get discouraged because things aren’t happening on your timetable, that’s going to keep you stuck, miserable and sad. 

Today, if you want to see change, if you want to see God open up new doors, the key is to bloom right where you’re planted. You can’t wait until everything gets better before you decide to have a good attitude. You have to be the best that you can be right where you are. When you bloom where you are planted, you’re allowing God to work in you, and He will be faithful to complete the change He started in you! 

“…he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 1:6) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I thank You for doing a work in me. I’m not complete but I can see growth in my life. Father, I will align myself with Your plan, so I can bloom wherever You plant me. God, help me, by Your Spirit, to be an example of Your love and life everywhere I go, in Christ’s Name! Amen. 

Your Restoration Has Come

God wants to restore everything that’s been stolen from your life. He wants to restore your joy, your peace, your health and your finances. We serve a God of restoration! You may have had some disappointments or unfair things happen in your life; but don’t dwell on the past and live in defeat.  

Restoration comes by intentionally choosing to focus on His promises like today’s verse. Here’s the key; you have to believe you can be restored and have that vision printed in the forefront of your mind. You have to get your hopes up and decide to get your thoughts and words in sync, going in the right positive direction. 

Today, choose to focus on the future and release past hurts through forgiveness. Draw a line in the sand and say, “I am a child of the Most High God, and I’m not going to live my life negative and defeated. This is a new day, and I’m taking back what belongs to me. I will have  a restoration mentality!”

“I will restore to you the years that the swarming locust has eaten…” (Joel 2:25) 

Let’s Pray
Yahweh, thank You for restoring my life. Father, thank You for the truth of Your Word that sets me free. Almighty God, fill me with Your power right now, so that I can stand strong and move forward on the path You have for me, in Christ’s Name! Amen. 

Dedicated Disciples

Becoming a serious Christian, around 15 years ago, was the most liberating moment of my life. It was also daunting. A world that once was familiar now appeared foreign, simply because most people I knew were not free. However, I knew I would need a family of fellow believers, for strength and survival.  

With fervent prayer, I explored churches and prayer groups to find that “place” where I could flourish in my exciting liberating faith. It wasn’t long before one church spoke the word “home” to my spirit, as I was greeted by the senior pastor and others who had been shepherding the congregation for years. They took me under their wings and lovingly, became my spiritual family. I met other church members and enrolled in a bible study about who Jesus was and the dynamics of Christianity. Oh, and their prayer meetings were powerful. 

God continued to lead me in nurturing pathways to strengthen my beliefs. The members were the epitome of disciples. They accepted, taught, and counselled me. Their commitment to my Christian maturity was transformational and something I’m still emotionally grateful for, years later. This church’s love for God and diligence in seeing me grow was Jesus in action. Though things weren’t perfect, I know they still exuded the personalities of dedicated disciples within the great tapestry of God’s kingdom. 

Today as a follower of Christ, endeavour to mirror the same characteristics as a good disciple. Nurture, love, and pray in the power of the Spirit. As believers, this is our obligation. May we never hesitate to speak or act in the life of someone needing help and discipleship. 

“Therefore, as we have the opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.”  (Galatians 6:10)

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I desire to serve and honour you with my life. Father, grant me the heart of a dedicated disciple when encountering other believers who need guidance and love. God, please help me grow and mature spiritually as I seek to serve, in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen. 

W.W.J.D Love

Have you heard of the acronym WWJD (What Would Jesus Do)? Loving one another isn’t a matter of a warm, fuzzy feeling, weak knees and a pounding heart. It’s a matter of doing the right thing because that’s what Jesus would do. Sometimes, we do things Christ’s way, and it can result in unpleasant outcomes for us. Loving often calls for doing the unexpected. 

Living the WWJD life makes us disciples of Jesus. Therefore, love is not something we can just opt to do or not do. It is a command from our Master, who showed us how to love. If we are asked why we are show­ing love, we should answer, “Because we’re disciples of someone who loves us. We do it for Jesus’ sake.” We can only show love by the ­power of the Holy Spirit working in us. Then we’re able, like Mother Teresa and Martin Luther King, to serve Christ by loving and serving others. 

Today, loving “one another” is often challenging. It may call us to love the strong-willed child or an ageing parent or spouse angry with dementia. At home or church, it may involve loving someone who is always negative and critical. At work, it may be the co-worker claiming to be indispensable while barely doing their job. It may mean foregoing a new coat so that someone else can have one. The “one another” in our lives could be some­one we don’t even know, but who comes to love Jesus because of something we did. Whom will you show Jesus’ love to today? Remember, we do what Jesus Do… We love all.

These three remain: Faith, Hope and Love. But the greatest of these is Love. (1 Corinthians 13:13)

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank you for loving me when I don’t deserve it. Father, help me to see others as you see them and do for them what you would do. Please help me to be a person who shows that I follow the example You gave me. All for Your glory and honour I love You, in Christ name, Amen.

Is Your Life On Autopilot 

As we move swiftly through this year It’s easy to get stuck in a rut on autopilot, doing the same things, with the same problems, the same struggles and on the same income. Because God is a dynamic God, He wants us to rise higher and continually grow and reach new levels. What I sense in my spirit, is that something massive is about to happen within the next year – not negative but exceptional; you will see promises come to pass; you will accomplish your dreams. It’s going to be a season of surprises; God will amaze you with His goodness! 

Is there an area in your life that you’ve struggled with? It seems like you just can’t get ahead. You need to get ready. This may be the year things are going to change. God is about to release His favour in a greater way in your life. You’ve sown the seeds. You’ve planted. You’ve watered. You’ve been faithful. Now you’re about to come into harvest.  

Today, as you think about the rest of this year and the next. Get ready and begin to declare with boldness, confidence, and faith, “This is my time for a breakthrough! This is my season! This is my ‘above and beyond’ moment, and I receive victory in Christ!” – Hallelujah! 

“Get ready! This is the day the Lord will give you victory…!” (Judges 4:14) 

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, thank You for Your faithfulness in my life. Father, today, I choose to take the limits off my thinking and lift my eyes to You as I end this year strong. God help me to see the good things You have in store for my future. In Christ’s Name, Amen. 

It’s Time To Retrain Your Mind 

Repeatedly I hear people say, “I just want to be happy”. Many people today don’t realize that the reason they’re not happy, the reason they’re not enjoying life, is simply that they’ve trained their minds in the wrong direction. They’ve trained their minds to worry. They’ve trained their minds to complain. They’ve trained their minds to see the negative. But just as you can form these negative mindsets, you can retrain your mind according to the Word of God and form godly mindsets. 

One of the keys to retraining your mind and developing a positive attitude is by learning to stay grateful. When you stay grateful, you are focusing on what’s right rather than what’s wrong. The seed of the Word takes root in the good ground of your heart. This doesn’t happen automatically; you must discipline yourself. You must make a conscious effort every single day, until a good habit is formed. 

Today remember, when you live with an attitude of praise and thanksgiving, you are shielding yourself from the attacks of the enemy. The seeds of discouragement cannot take root in a grateful heart. Neither can bitterness, envy, or strife. So, retrain your mind and be empowered with His strength to overcome in every area of your life! 

“Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind…” (Romans 12:2)

Let’s Pray 

Yahweh, I surrender my thoughts and mind to You. Father, help me retrain my thoughts so that they are in line with Your Word and Your will. God, show me how to have lasting happiness no matter how things turn out. I claim joy over sadness and contentment over confusion. I choose to have an attitude of faith and expectancy. Thank You for empowering me to live the life You have for me, in Christ’s name. Amen. 

We Have All Sinned

As I look back over my life, all my sins and shortcomings led to, and still lead to, difficult times of depression, loneliness, self-blame and ongoing sin, and sometimes it becomes hard to minister thinking of all the hurt I have caused myself, others and God.

Just recently, after reading the daily lesson and powerful books by Joyce Meyers and Beth Moore, I realised that all of my sins and hardships have all served as preparation for ministry and service. This could be the bio of Abraham, David, Solomon, Paul, Peter and many more. Today, I think that these shortfalls and sins, some of which still haunt me till this day, are my real CV for ministry, not my BA in Religion and my certifications in substance abuse counselling, but in my weakness, God has become strong, and out of that strength God has given me a testimony that has helped thousands of people around the world. Hallelujah!!

If you are going through a storm, my word to you is to hold on, don’t give up. If God brought me through, He will bring you through. The Word of God says He will never leave you and, in your weakness, He is made strong. And even though you may have caused your own pain, Isaiah 61:4-8 says God will use it for ministry, and make your ministry achieve double.

Today, if you are feeling broken there’s only one way to be filled. Stay under the tap of the Holy Ghost! The moment you leave the tap you will not be filled with His power. God wants to fill you all day, every day. You are not bad, you are weak, and God still can, and will, use you, because it shows that He is bigger than your trial, and stronger than the devil and man. It’s time to rise above the opinions of man and turn your eyes upon Jesus.

The Spirit of the Sovereign LORD is on me, because the LORD has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the broken hearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners, to proclaim the year of the LORD’s favour and the day of vengeance of our God, to comfort all who mourn, and provide for those who grieve in Zion… (Isaiah 61:1-3)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I thank You for loving me, after knowing what I’ve done and what I will do, and I thank You for my friends that will receive freedom from these words. Father, I don’t want to keep on hurting and being hurt. Help me to hate my sins, and to daily wash in Your blood. God, thank You for not leaving me when everybody else thought I was too filthy. Help those who don’t understand how You can still use broken, stained and sinful people. You are awesome. Thank You. I LOVE YOU! Amen. 

 

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