Tag: Jesus

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.

In the UK at this time of the year, we have many hours of darkness. Are you going through dark times? In the Old Testament when today’s scripture was written, God’s people were going through a very dark time. They were being held captive and mistreated by other nations. God sent a word to encourage them and give them hope for their future, and when the time came, God was faithful to His word!

Are you going through a hard, difficult time? Are you being mistreated? Are you going through a dark time? Let this word bring you encouragement too. God wants to give you double for your hardship. He is the God of restoration — that means He’s not going to just repay you for every wrong done to you, He’s going to go above and beyond and make things even better than they were before.

Today, if you are facing challenges or going through a time of adversity, don’t forget it’s always darkest just before dawn. Remember, Your days are destined to shine brighter because God is faithful. As you stay in faith and are obedient to His word, you’ll receive double for your trouble and see His promises come to pass! Declare today – “I receive it!” Now move forward in Jesus’ name.

“Instead of your shame you shall have double honour, and instead of confusion they shall rejoice in their portion. Therefore in their land they shall possess double; everlasting joy shall be theirs.” (Isaiah 61:7)

Lets Pray

Yahweh, thank You for Your word which lights my path and guides my steps. Father, I give You my shame and guilt for Your double honour. I choose to put my trust and hope in You. God, I give You my darkness, hardship and difficulty. Please turn on the light in my life today. Thank You for bringing restoration into my life as I keep my heart and mind stayed on You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.

In scripture, Jesus left us with a powerful assurance: “And lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” These words resound through the ages, reminding us that God’s presence is an eternal reality in our lives.

In our journey of faith, we encounter moments of joy and moments of challenge, times of clarity and times of uncertainty. Yet, amidst it all, there is a constant, unwavering truth – God is with us, always.

No matter where we go or what circumstances we face, His presence is our comfort and strength. He walks with us through the valleys and rejoices with us on the mountaintops. His presence is not bound by time or location; it transcends all boundaries.

As we navigate the complexities of life, we can draw solace from these words of Jesus. His abiding presence is our anchor in the storms, our guide through the wilderness, and our source of hope in every season.

Today, in moments of solitude and amidst the busyness of life, let us take a moment to acknowledge His presence. For in the assurance of His constant companionship, we find courage, peace, and the unshakable confidence that we are never alone.

“Teaching them to observe all things that I have commanded you; and lo, I am with you always, even to the end of the age.” Amen. (Matthew 28:20)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, we thank you for your promise to always be with us. Father, help us to trust in you and to lean on your strength when we feel weak. Give us the courage and the faith to keep pressing on, knowing that you are always by our side. Lord, we pray that you will guide us and lead us in the direction you have for us. May we always be faithful to you, just as you are faithful to us. In Jesus’ name, we pray, Amen.

In a world where our voices can often feel lost in the chaos, this assurance from God is a reason for hope. He invites us to communicate with Him, assuring us that He hears our prayers. Unlike human listeners, God’s attention is not limited or flawed. He listens with perfect understanding, compassion, and wisdom.

This divine listening is not passive but active. God is not just a recipient of our words; He responds with His presence, guidance, and comfort. He engages with our concerns, our joys, our fears, and our hopes.

Today, as we reflect on God’s promise in Jeremiah 29, we learn to approach God with confidence and honesty in our prayers. Let’s cherish this intimate dialogue, knowing that God is not just a listener but an active participant in our lives. In prayer, we find a God who listens attentively and responds with love and power.

Then you will call upon Me and go and pray to Me, and I will listen to you. (Jeremiah 29:12)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I come before You with a heart full of gratitude for Your enduring love and a faithful listening ear. Help me to not just speak but also to listen, fostering a two-way relationship with You. I take comfort in knowing that when I call upon You, You will listen. In Christ’s name, Amen.

Remember, confronting and exposing darkness is not about passing judgment or promoting self-righteousness. Instead, it’s about shining the light of God’s truth on actions, attitudes, or systems that contradict His will. It involves being honest about sin – both in our lives and in the world around us. While this might be uncomfortable, it’s crucial for fostering a culture of accountability and righteousness.

Scripture suggests exposing darkness starts with self-examination. We must be willing to hold our own lives up to the light of God’s Word, allowing it to reveal any areas of compromise or sin. Then, with wisdom and love, we are called to address and expose the deeds of darkness in our broader communities.

The purpose of this exposure is not condemnation but transformation. It’s an invitation for repentance and change, both for ourselves and for others.

Today, as you contemplate Ephesians 5, consider how you can be a light in your environment. Pray for the courage and discernment to expose darkness in a way that honours God and encourages righteousness. Remember, in doing so, we contribute to a world that more accurately reflects the kingdom of God.

Have nothing to do with the fruitless deeds of darkness, but rather expose them. (Ephesians 5:11)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, please help me to have no fellowship with the unfruitful deeds of darkness. Give me the courage to stand up against them and to reprove them. May I always walk in the light and be a shining example of your love and truth. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

As you plan for the future, watch your words! Your words have the power to make or break your future. With your words, you can either bless your future or curse your future. If you want to know what your life is going to be like five years from now, just listen to what you’re saying about yourself today. Too many people go around saying, “I’ll never get well”, “I’ll never get out of debt”, “I’ll never have a good marriage.” Then you wonder why you don’t see things turn around. It’s because you’re calling defeat into your future, you’re calling in mediocrity. Don’t let that be you!

Today, no matter how you feel, or what things look like, instead of using your words to describe your situation, use your words to change your situation. Make a declaration of faith by saying, “This is going to be a great day”, “I have God’s favour”, “He’s directing my steps.” When you do that, you are choosing to bless your future. You are calling in Godly favour, increase and opportunity. You are opening the door for God to move now and in your future, giving you the abundant life He has in store for you!

Out of the same mouth proceedeth blessing and cursing. My brethren, these things ought not so to be. (James 3:10)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, thank You for the blessings You have prepared for me now and in my future. Give me the spiritual strength to change my “I will never” for “I will.” God, I submit my ways and my words to You. Help me to speak what You speak, and keep close to You. I give You the glory for a bright and abundant future, in Jesus’ name! Amen.

Today’s verse in Ephesians, is a solemn reminder that our actions and attitudes can deeply affect our relationship with the Holy Spirit. To grieve the Spirit is to cause sorrow or distress to the very presence of God within us. This can occur in various ways:

Unforgiveness: Holding onto grudges and refusing to forgive others can create a barrier between us and the Spirit’s work of reconciliation and peace.

Bitterness and Anger: Allowing these emotions to take root in our hearts can quench the Spirit’s work of producing love and kindness.

Immoral Behaviour: Engaging in actions that contradict God’s moral standards can stifle the Spirit’s work of sanctification in our lives.

Disobedience to God’s Word: Ignoring or rebelling against the teachings of Scripture can hinder the Spirit’s guidance and wisdom.

Neglecting Spiritual Disciplines: Failing to pray, read the Bible, and fellowship with other believers can weaken our connection to the Spirit.

Today, as we reflect on our relationship with God, let us examine our lives for areas where we may be grieving the Holy Spirit. May we seek to cultivate a relationship with the Spirit marked by obedience, repentance, and a deep desire to honour God in all we do.

And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. (Ephesians 4:30)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, please give us the wisdom to recognise every plan and plot from the pit of Hell, working tirelessly day and night to silence, quench or make us ignore the prompting of God The Holy Spirit. Father, please give us the Wisdom and Power to resist them as we continue to trust You and Your Word. In Jesus’ Name. Amen!

Today’s promise in 2 Corinthians, stating that God has made us new, encapsulates the transformative power of our relationship with Jesus. In Christ, we are reborn, not just improved versions of our former selves, but entirely new creations. This transformation is more than a superficial change; it is a fundamental renewal from the inside out. The old ways of living, thinking, and behaving are replaced by a new life infused with God’s spirit and aligned with His will.

The phrase “old things have passed away” signifies a decisive break from our past. It’s a reminder that our former sins, failures, and mistakes no longer define us. Instead, we are defined by our new identity in Christ – one of redemption, restoration, and renewal.

Today as we navigate our daily lives, we must embrace our new creation reality, to truly live our lives to the fullest. Let’s live in the freedom and joy of our new identity, letting go of the past and stepping boldly into the new life Christ has given us. In Him, every day is an opportunity to experience and manifest this newness, impacting our world with the hope and grace we’ve received.

Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold, all things have become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17)

Let’s Pray

Yahweh, I receive Your transforming, renewing power in my life today. Father, I declare that I am a new creature in Christ Jesus, I am beginning anew with You today. Lord, help me to throw off everything that hinders me so that I may run the race and take the prize. In Christ’s Name, Amen.