Rhapsody of Realities for Teenagers - TeeVo - KEEP IT CLEAN - 30/06/2015

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

KEEP IT CLEAN
(Take Care Of Your Body)

TO THE BIBLE
1 Corinthians 6: 19- 20 NLT
Or don't you know that your body is the temple of the Holy Spirit, who lives in you and was given to you by God? You do not belong to yourself, for God bought you with a high price. So you must honour God with your body.

LET'S TALK
Your body is your house, and you're its custodian. God gave it to you so you could function in the earth. You're responsible for your body, you can do something about it, because God gave you the authority to protect and preserve it.

Many people get sick because they don't take care of their bodies. Even after getting healed, many go back to the same unhygienic practices that made them sick in the first place. And so what happens? They get sick again.

Its really important that you learn to keep your body healthy and strong by observing proper hygiene, eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and keeping your clothes and environment clean.

Remember, the responsibility to keep your body healthy is yours, not God's. Jesus has already done all He needs to do about your physical health, so He experts you to be healthy and strong. Find out more about the things you should know and do to keep your body healthy, so you can serve God well.

GO DEEPER
Romans 12: 1

PRAY
Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for teaching me how to keep my body clean so I can use it for your glory. I pray that as I offer my body to you as a living sacrifice, my whole body is sanctified and profitable for your divine use, in Jesus' Name! Amen.

ACT
Do you have your clothes and things in an untidy clutter? Or perhaps you haven't cleaned your room in a while, its time for a major clean up; wash and clean all that you need to today!

Rhapsody of Realities - He Can Change His Mind! - 30/06/2015

Pastor Chris

And the LORD changed his mind about the disaster that he planned to bring on his people (Exodus 32:14 NRSV).

The Bible tells a story in 2 Kings 20 about King Hezekiah. He was deathly ill, and the Lord sent the Prophet Isaiah to tell him he would die. Upon hearing this news, he turned his face toward the wall and prayed, weeping sorely. The Lord spoke to Isaiah, and he went back to tell the king the Lord had heard his prayer, and added fifteen more years to his life. You may then wonder, "Does God change His mind?"

This story doesn't suggest that God made a decision to shorten Hezekiah's life. He was to die on the basis of God's righteousness and laws previously given. He had taken some wrong steps, and God sent the prophet to tell him he would die, because the Old Testament law states that the soul that sins shall die (Ezekiel 18:4). The king however repented and changed his ways, and it became unrighteous for God to continue in that decision, which was based on the previous moral condition. Thus, the Lord actually changed His mind.

This doesn't mean He changes His standards; but it becomes inconsistent with His character to go ahead and punish a man who already repented. Everyone who sins is condemned as the Bible says, but through salvation in Christ Jesus, repentance is possible.

In case you're in a situation, and you want the Lord to change His mind, you have to change first. If you change your state, your way of doing things, then God would, in consistency with His character, also change how He deals with you. The Bible says He gives more grace! Walk in His light and His grace, and you'll find that the favour of God can be multiplied in your life continually, as you walk with Him, pleasing Him.

PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for enlightening my heart with the revelations of your Word today. I'm synchronized with the Spirit, knowing and walking in your perfect will for me. Through your Spirit, I walk worthy of you unto all pleasing, fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of your Word, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study: || Amos 7:1-6 NKJV Thus the Lord God showed me: Behold, He formed locust swarms at the beginning of the late crop; indeed it was the late crop after the king’s mowings. 2 And so it was, when they had finished eating the grass of the land, that I said: “O Lord God, forgive, I pray! Oh, that Jacob may stand, For he is small!” 3 So the Lord relented concerning this. “It shall not be,” said the Lord. 4 Thus the Lord God showed me: Behold, the Lord God called for conflict by fire, and it consumed the great deep and devoured the territory. 5 Then I said: “O Lord God, cease, I pray! Oh, that Jacob may stand, For he is small!” 6 So the Lord relented concerning this. “This also shall not be,” said the Lord God. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 15:1-21,
Esther 1-4

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 5:27-39,
Deuteronomy 28

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities

Rhapsody of Realities - Take Your Place In The Ministry of The Gospel - 29/06/2015

Pastor Chris

And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give (Matthew 10:7-8).

As you study the Bible, you'll find that God never arrogated absolutely to Himself, all the powers of change for human lives. He never told us, for example, that He was going to win souls by Himself. He told us to do that. He told us to heal the sick; He didn't say, "Ask me to do it; or pray for me to do it"; no! He lets us know that it's our responsibility, but we function with His authority. What a blessing!

The Bible says, "And they (the disciples) went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen" (Mark 16:20). This is what is happening in our day! As we preach the Gospel, the Lord confirms our message. Signs and wonders take place!

Get bold for Christ. Preach the Gospel with passion, and as you do, the Lord will confirm His Word with signs following. We have something to give to the world; it's the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Recall again what the Lord said: Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely you have received, freely also give (Matthew 10:8). He has given us both the power and authority to do mighty works in His Name and effectively demonstrate the character o the Spirit to our world.

Therefore, take your place in the ministry of the Gospel. Preach the Gospel with boldness.

PRAYER

Dear Father, I rejoice that you counted me faithful to be a minister of reconciliation, and an effective partner with you in evangelizing the world, thus impacting many lives with the blessings of the Gospel, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study: 

John 14:12 Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.

Mark 16:18 They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 14:1-28,
Nehemiah 11-13

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 5:12-26,
Deuteronomy 27

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities

Rhapsody of Realities TeeVo - WHO'S TALKING? - 28/06/2015

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

WHO'S TALKING?
(Do you recognize God's voice?)

TO THE BIBLE
John 10: 27 TLB
My sheep recognize my voice, and I know them, and they follow me.

LET'S TALK
"Did God really speak to you, Henry?" Michelle asked. "Oh yea, He did!" Henry replied. "Really! What does His voice sound like?" Michelle asked puzzled.

Some folks are just like Michelle. It beats their imagination to think that God speaks to people. They feel He's too busy taking care of "more serious" matters and doesn't have any time for them. Well, the truth is that God really loves talking with and to His children.

You might say, "but I've never heard Him speak. "Its possible you weren't listening when He did. Remember the story of Samuel in the Bible? When he was a young boy, God called him three times, but he thought it was Eli the priest (1 Samuel 3: 4-10). Why? Because when God talks, He does so with the voice of a man, and, a lot of times, He uses a familiar voice.

God can talk to you too in a familiar voice and in a language you understand. But to recognize His voice easily and respond when He speaks, you need to study and acquaint yourself with His word, as God and His word are one. So, start training yourself to recognize His voice today. Don't think you're not important enough for Him to talk to, because you are.

GO DEEPER
Isaiah 30: 21
Job 22: 21-22

PRAY
Dear Father, thank you because I hear your voice which guilds and directs me in every area of life. As I spend time studying your word today, I recognize your voice better and I become more sensitive to your will and purpose for me, in Jesus name. Amen.

ACT
Study and meditate on these scriptures today:
1. Acts 9: 4 - 5
2. Acts 26: 14

Rhapsody of Realities - Angels At Your Service! - 28/06/2015

Pastor Chris

Then said Jesus unto him, Put up again thy sword into his place: for all they that take the sword shall perish with the sword. Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels? (Matthew 26:52-53).

As a child of God, you need to be aware that God has assigned angels to you, to minister, not just to you, but for you. They're at your service: "Are they not all ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?" (Hebrews 1:14). So, when for example, you make a decree in the Name of Jesus, your angels enforce it; they see to it that it happens. What do you want done? Give the word and dispatch your angels.

Observe Hebrews 1:14 carefully; it says angels are "...ministering spirits, sent forth to minister for them who shall be heirs of salvation?" That means they SERVE you. However, they do so under the authority of Jesus; they carry out the things you say in the Name of the Lord Jesus. They don't carry out human instructions. Jesus gave us the power of attorney to use His Name. So, when you use the Name of Jesus, you're no longer using your human authority; you're using the authority of Jesus Christ!

Let's consider the words of the Master in our opening verse. Peter wanted to fight for Him, with his sword, but Jesus stopped him and said, "Thinkest thou that I cannot now pray to my Father, and he shall presently give me more than twelve legions of angels?" (Matthew 26:52-53). Jesus was fully aware that if He gave the word, the angels were under obligation to take action! This is for every one of us. He, however, gave us insight into how He was able to command such ministry so easily when He said, "...the words that I speak unto you I speak not of myself: but the Father that dwelleth in me, he doeth the works" (John 14:10).

Angels respond to God's Word (Psalm 103:20). As long as you function within the ambit of God's perfect will, angels will be at your service; they'll be happy to work with, and for you.

CONFESSION

The Lord has sent His angels before me to minister for me daily! As I make declarations of the Word, they're dispatched to establish the words of my mouth and ensure that the words that I speak don't come back to me void. I'm never alone, because the host of heaven is with me always!

Further Study: 

Psalm 34:7 The angel of the Lord encampeth round about them that fear him, and delivereth them.

Luke 1:13 But the angel said unto him, Fear not, Zacharias: for thy prayer is heard; and thy wife Elisabeth shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name John.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 13:13-52,
Nehemiah 9-10

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 5:1-11,
Deuteronomy 26

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities

Rhapsody of Realities - He Has The Best Strategies! - 27/06/2015

Pastor Chris

And it came to pass, when Moses held up his hand, that Israel prevailed: and when he let down his hand, Amalek prevailed (Exodus 17:11).

Many years ago, as we went to remote towns and villages for crusades, the Spirit of God would give us some specific strategies for evangelism as we prayed in preparation. When we followed such instructions, we took over the land. Sometimes, we were led to go to the chiefs and rulers of the towns to minister to them first.

On some other occasions, if we went to an institution, like a school, we were led of the Spirit to the foundation stone of that institution to lay hands on it and pray. We weren't led to do those things the same way all the time; they were strategies of the Spirit, which would vary as the Spirit prompted.

In preaching the Gospel, and winning your neighbourhood, town, city, or nation for the Lord, you'll have to learn to yield to the Holy Spirit, and depend on Him for the right strategies to employ. Remember who He is: "The Extraordinary Strategist!"

In soul winning, we contend for the souls of men; therefore, we must employ divine strategies. Those who don't understand soul winning as warfare are the ones who don't think strategies. As you pray, the Holy Spirit will show you what to do. Sometimes, He may tell you, "Go witness to So-and-so"; He may even go ahead to tell you precisely what to say, and as you proclaim it, the miracle of salvation happens.

Consider the experience of Moses that we read in our opening verse; it was a strategy of the Spirit, which resulted in victory for the children of Israel. It was about Moses' hands being up; it wasn't the height of the hands. That was why when Moses was eventually tired, and had to sit down, as long as Aaron and Hur held up his hands, Israel still prevailed. That was God's strategy for victory over Amalek. It wasn't Aaron or Joshua's hands that needed to be up! It had to be those of Moses!

What's that strategy the Lord has given you for your business, your job, your ministry, your finances, etc.? Put it to work! He knows the best strategy you require for your next level; therefore, depend on Him for direction: "In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths" (Proverbs 3:6).

CONFESSION

I have the Spirit of wisdom and understanding! He teaches and instructs me in the way that I should go. I know what to do, and I know when to do what to do, by the strategy of the Spirit. None of my steps shall slide, because I hear and follow the voice of the Spirit always. Blessed be God!

Further Study:  

Proverbs 16:9 A man's heart deviseth his way: but the Lord directeth his steps.

Psalm 37:23 CEV If you do what the Lord wants, he will make certain each step you take is sure.

Psalm 32:8 I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. 

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 13:1-12,
Nehemiah 7-8

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 4:33-44,
Deuteronomy 25

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities

Rhapsody of Realities - "Believe Not Every Spirit" - 26/06/2015

Pastor Chris

Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world (1 John 4:1).

In 2 Chronicles 18:21, the Bible tells us that a lying spirit was in the mouths of the prophets to cause them to utter lies. That spirit hasn't died, and because what he did worked, there're other spirits who do the same today. They take over people and make them utter lies without restraint.

That's why it's important that you test every spirit; don't just believe everything; believe only that which is true, honest, just, pure, lovely, of good report, virtuous, and praise-worthy. Don't believe a rumour; like some would say, "In every rumour, there's an element of truth". How could there be an element of truth in a rumour founded on falsehood? What element of truth was there when they lied against Jesus? The Bible says they hated Him without a cause, and lied against Him (Matthew 26:59).

Such things still happen today! There're still lying spirits. It's the same devil; he has no new tricks. His strategies are the same. If he could be a lying spirit in the mouths of prophets in the Old Testament, you can imagine what he could be in, and do with, those who let him.

He can be a lying spirit in the mouth of children against their parents, or vice versa. He could be a lying spirit in the mouth of a friend or family member against another friend or other family members. He's just that way; he's Satan; the deceiver and manipulator. However, we're not ignorant of his devices.

Follow God's Word, and allow the Holy Spirit guide you in all things; He's the Spirit of truth, and He alone can guide you in the path of truth always.

PRAYER

Dear Lord, I thank you for wisdom that's at work in me, with which I'm led in the path of truth. I abhor falsehood, and I'm firmly established in your Word which makes righteousness manifest in my spirit, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study: 
Proverbs 13:5 GNB Honest people hate lies, but the words of wicked people are shameful and disgraceful.

Psalm 101:7 He that worketh deceit shall not dwell within my house: he that telleth lies shall not tarry in my sight.

1 John 2:20 But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 12:1-25,
Nehemiah 4-6

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 4:14-32,
Deuteronomy 24


EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities

Rhapsody of Realities - Speak In Tongues And Interpret! - 25/06/2015

Pastor Chris

Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret (1 Corinthians 14:13).

The Bible says Jesus Christ is the embodiment of all knowledge and wisdom (Colossians 2:3); and you're complete in Him (Colossians 2:10). This is what makes it possible for you to know anything through the Holy Spirit. I admonish God's people to speak in tongues all the time, because it's the coded language of the Spirit! It's the quickest way to activate and condition your spirit to receive spiritual information and guidance.

Perhaps you require guidance for something, or there's a piece of information you need; speak in tongues. Go on until you know you've got the guidance or counsel you need, or the information you require. The answer may be given to you in your spirit, in other tongues. In that case, you'll require the gift of interpretation of tongues. This is important because if you can't interpret the answer in your understanding, you may not be able to apply it to your benefit. In that case, you'd have to ask the Holy Spirit to help you bring the message to your understanding in prophetic utterance.

If you thought you were blessed speaking in tongues, wait until you receive the interpretation! The Bible says, "Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret" (1 Corinthians 14:13); it's that simple! Ask the Lord in faith for the interpretation of the tongues you're speaking, receive the interpretation by faith and speak it forth in your understanding.

PRAYER

Dear Father, thank you for the blessing of speaking mysteries and secrets in other tongues, in a heavenly language that's void of earthly and carnal interference. I receive inspiration, strength, comfort, and edification as I speak in tongues even now, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study: 

Ephesians 5:18 And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; 

1 Corinthians 14:15 What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 11:19-30,
Nehemiah 1-3

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 4:1-13,
Deuteronomy 23

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities

Rhapsody of Realities - You Sit On Jesus' Seat! - 24/06/2015

Pastor Chris Oyakhilome

Then spake Jesus to the multitude, and to his disciples, Saying The scribes and the Pharisees sit in Moses' seat: All therefore whatsoever they bid you observe, that observe and do; but do not ye after their works: for they say, and do not (Matthew 23:1-3).

The Lord Jesus used the illustration above to explain something profound about authority. He instructed the disciples to do whatever the Scribes and Pharisees told them to do, because they (the Scribes and Pharisees) represented Moses. However, He was quick to admonish the disciples not to act like them.

As a Christian, you sit on Jesus' seat. Your authority over devils and the powers of darkness isn't based on your ability; it's the authority of Christ. All of nature and creation, including Satan and his cohorts, have been commanded to hear and obey you, just as they were commanded to hear and obey Jesus (Matthew 17:5). Therefore, whatever you tell them to do, they must do! This is a spiritual principle, and Satan and his demons understand it; cast them out, and they'll be gone.

Even if Satan tries to oppose you and says, "You can't cast me out, because you don't have enough power, and haven't prayed enough", your response should be, "I sit on Jesus' seat! Therefore, I order you to come out!"

You have to understand who Satan is; he's the opposer and accuser: "...for the accuser of our brethren is cast down, which accused them before our God day and night" (Revelations 12:10). In Zechariah 3, he accused Joshua in the presence of God: "And he shewed me Joshua the high priest standing before the angel of the LORD, and Satan standing at his right hand to resist him. And the Lord said unto Satan, The LORD rebuke thee, O Satan..." (Zechariah 3:1-2). The Lord didn't say to Joshua, "You see now. If you were doing the right thing, Satan won't be here to resist you". Rather, He turned to Satan and said, "The Lord rebuke you!"

In Christ, you're irreproachable. Christ reconciled you in the body of His flesh through death, to present you holy, faultless, and blameless in the sight of God. Satan may accuse you all he wants, and fuss about your inability to cast him out, it makes no difference! You sit on Jesus' seat: You're seated together with Him in the heavenly realm - at the right hand of God Almighty - the place of dominion, power, and authority!

PRAYER
I'm seated together with Christ in the place of power; far above all principalities, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come. I live in dominion over sin, sickness and infirmities, and every opposing force, accusation or hindrance, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study: 

Ephesians 2:5-6 Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) 6 And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus: ;

Colossians 1:22 In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight: ;

Romans 8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Acts 11:1-18,
Ezra 9-10

2-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Luke 3:23-38,
Deuteronomy 22

Be Moved to Pray

Pastor Chris

I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men ( 1 Timothy 2:1).

Prayer, usually, is the response to the impression of the Spirit in our hearts. It can also be a response to the impression the circumstances of other people make upon our hearts, which makes us decide we want to cause a change.

I remember the testimony of a young girl who was retarded and bedridden due to juvenile arthritis. She
could only move around in a wheelchair and the only part of her body she could move was her neck, as the disease had stiffened her whole body.

She was taken to a miracle-service, and while in that meeting she wept and called on the Lord to help her. Some others saw her and began to pray for her too.

As they interceded for her, she told the lady beside her she wanted to get up. Though her hands and legs felt
heavy and painful, she managed to stand up. As others prayed for her, the lady encouraged her and said, "Don't worry, go ahead and move your hands and legs. The Lord has healed you."

Although it was difficult for her to move, she was encouraged by the faith of everyone present and took her first step. They all erupted in thanks and praise to the Lord as she took another step, and then another one, and right before their eyes she began to run around the room! That happened just because those believers around her were moved to pray for her. They weren't moved by pity but by compassion.

There's so much we can do and change in the lives of others if we'd only intercede for them. Thank God for the wonderful life you have, but there are people who are going through a lot of hurt for whom you must be moved to pray.

Never become callous and unfeeling, to the point that you're not moved by the conditions of the sinners and others who are suffering around you. The Bible says of the Lord Jesus that He is touched with the "feeling of our infirmities" (Hebrews 4:15). 

Let that be your description as well. Let the plight of the poor, the sick, and the downtrodden move you to intercede for them and cause a change in their lives.

Excerpt from pastorchrisonline.org - blogs

Rhapsody of Realities - There're Higher Levels - 23/06/2015

Pastor Chris

And I, brethren, could not speak unto you as unto spiritual, but as unto carnal, even as unto babes in Christ (1 Corinthians 3:1).

There're certain kinds of communications permissible for Christians at the lower level of spiritual understanding. For example, at an evangelical meeting, I might say, "God is going to heal you today", and diverse healing miracles will take place. That statement is a truth, but a lesser truth. I'll explain.

Genesis 1:16 talks about different lights: "And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also". Light stands for truth. So, there're lesser truths and there're greater truths. The lesser and generic truth is that "God is going to heal you". But there's such a thing as being specific. It's like specialization in the academia. At the first level, you're taught the rudiments. As you move higher, you're taught specifics - areas that only the initiated should come into. It's the same thing spiritually.

The more you delve into the Word of God, the more you realize that God is really not "doing" anything for anybody today in the sense that many understand it. He's already done everything He needed to do; He has fulfilled everything in Christ Jesus! So, He's not making any effort to heal you; He's already done it! If you thought, "O God, you're really going to heal me today"; that's a lesser truth.

In certain kinds of meetings, we teach and preach the general truth, so the non-Christians present at such meetings could hear the Word of God, be blessed and receive Christ. But at certain other meetings, we unveil the Word so God's people can learn and put it to work for themselves; we move to the higher classes and show them the reality of God's Word.

Refuse to remain in the lower class, like the Corinthian Christians that the Apostle Paul chided for being carnal. Rather, transcend the babyhood stage of Christianity. Grow in Christ and increase in the knowledge of God's Word! Grow and function at higher levels, for there's a higher life in Christ!

PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for enlightening my heart to grasp deeper truths and higher revelations of your Word. I'm inspired to live the transcendent life of glory; I'm triumphant in Christ, always, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study: 

2 Timothy 2:15 Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. ;

1 Peter 2:1-2 laying aside all malice, and all guile, and hypocrisies, and envies, and all evil speakings, 2 As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 10:24-48,
Ezra 7-8

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 3:12-22,
Deuteronomy 21

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities

Rhapsody of Realities - An Inevitable Key For Success - 22/06/2015

Pastor Chris

Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men (Proverbs 22:29).

The opening verse shows us a key ingredient for a successful and prosperous life - diligence! Some people find themselves in a regrettable state in life due to their inability to apply diligence in their lives, and in the things that God has called them to do.

The Lord Jesus was humbly diligent; He said in John 4:34, "...my meat is to do the will of him that sent me, and to finish his work". He recognized that His success was in doing the work of the Father, and finishing it. He knew the importance and eternal significance of His assignment, and committed Himself to it with extraordinary discipline and diligence.

There're people who never finish or complete anything that's committed to them; and there're others who are perpetually late to their workplace or come up with excuses for non-performance. Yet, such people wonder why things aren't working out right for them, or why they aren't being promoted. The reason for their predicament is simple: they slothfully ignore the application of diligence in their everyday life. Diligence is a key factor that sparks off true success in you. I'm talking about the God-kind of success; not the world's definition of success.

Diligence brings you before kings and into honour, while slothfulness leads to poverty and obscurity. Diligent people make their organizations more successful and prosperous than the way they met it. That's one of the hallmarks of truly successful people. Become diligent in anything and everything that's committed to your trust.

A close look at the lives of successful men and women around the world, no matter what field of endeavour they belong to, will reveal one common factor in their lives - diligence. The same thing applies to things of the Spirit. As you diligently study the Word of God and apply it, it enriches your spirit; you become successful in your spirit, and your fellowship with the Lord is enhanced.

CONFESSION

I function with the ability of the Spirit always, not just in my desire and readiness to start up any endeavour, but also in bringing them to excellent fruition. I'm assured of a life of honour, dignity, and glory, because I apply diligence in every area of life. Halleluiah!

Further Study: 

Ecclesiastes 9:10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest. ;

Proverbs 10:4 He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich. ;

Proverbs 14:23 (MSG) Hard work always pays off; mere talk puts no bread on the table.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 10:1-23,
Ezra

 4-6

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 3:1-11,
Deuteronomy 20

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities

Rhapsody of Realities - The Effects Of Grace - 21/06/2015

Pastor Chris

WHO, WHEN HE CAME, AND HAD SEEN THE GRACE OF GOD, was glad, and exhorted them all, that with purpose of heart they would cleave unto the Lord (Acts 11:23).

Luke, by the inspiration of the Spirit, explains in the verse above, how Barnabas and Paul went to visit the brethren, and they saw the grace of God. What does it mean to "See the grace of God?"

"Grace" is from the Greek word "charis"; it refers to the divine influence on the heart reflected in the life of a man. It's the outward expression, or the outworking of an inward divine influence in your heart. Simply put, it's the inner working of the glory and the power of God in your life that radiates, shines, and reflects on the outside. So, what these Apostles saw was an outer reflection of the inner working of the power, and life, and nature of God in them - they saw the effects of that grace.

You only see the outworking of the grace of God. It's like saying "We saw the wind blowing". You really don't see the wind; what you see are the effects of the wind. The effects could be moving objects or the branches of a tree moving to and fro; then you can immediately decipher that it's a strong wind. You don't see the wind; what you see are the effects!

It's the same way with the description in the opening verse. The grace of God on its own can't be seen until you see what it produces. So, the Lord impresses on your heart, through His Word and the Holy Spirit, and whatever is deposited by that influence, is seen on the outside; it shows or reveals itself on the outside. Then we can say, just like the early Church, "We saw the grace of God on them".

That's why it's important to grow in grace. 2 Peter 3:18 tells us, "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ...." The word "grow" is taken from the Greek word "auxano"; it means "to give increase to". To grow in grace is to increase in the workings of the power of God in your life. And as you grow in grace, more of the glory of God shines, radiates, and is seen through you. Halleluiah!

PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for the knowledge of your Word that causes me to walk in an overflow of grace. That grace which is the power of promotion, reflects on the outside, producing favour, beauty, goodwill, loveliness, perfections, glory and ability in my life, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study: 

2 Peter 1:2 Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord, ;

John 1:14 And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us, (and we beheld his glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father,) full of grace and truth.

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 9:32-43,
Ezra 1-3

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 2:41-52,
Deuteronomy 19

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities

Rhapsody for Teenagers - Teevo - SET YOUR MIND ON JESUS - 19/06/2015

SET YOUR MIND ON JESUS 

( God's Word Gives You Perfect Peace )

TO THE BIBLE 

Isaiah 26 verse 3

" You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You."

LET'S TALK

The scripture above doesn't say, " You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind stayed on You" ; rather it says "You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind IS stayed on You..."

The key word here is the verb 'is', letting you know you should always keep your mind focused on God's word!

" But, how do I focus my mind on God's Word amidst everything I have to deal with every day?" you might ask. Well, the way to do that is to focus all your mental energies on His Word through meditation!

In your quiet times, as you study and meditate on the scriptures, shut out all forms of distractions. Don't let your mind wander.

Keep your heart fixed on the Word, and think deeply about His love, mercy goodness and grace.

Maintain this attitude towards God's Word every day. Meditate on what it says over and over again, and you'll enjoy God's perfect peace!

This is peace with abundant prosperity!

In other words, you'll stop struggling in life and have rest in every circumstance. You're guaranteed this perfect peace as you keep your kind focused on God's Word continually.

Furthermore, don't just apply God's Word in a particular situation, and then relent when you're yet to see a change. Rather keep your mind focused on the Word, irrespective of what the circumstances are.

Hold on to your confession of God's Word; keep talking it and it'll deliver to you your inheritance in Christ.

That's his to stay your mind on Jesus!

GO DEEPER 

Joshua 1 verse 8

AMPLIFIED BIBLE

This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.

Hebrews 12 verse 2

AMPLIFIED

Looking away from all that will distract to Jesus, Who is the Leader and the Source of our faith giving the first incentive for our belief and is also its Finisher bringing it to maturity and perfection. He, for the joy of obtaining the prize that was set before Him, endured the cross, despising and ignoring the shame, and is now seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

SPEAK 

My mind IS stayed on God's Word and I enjoy His perfect peace in my life.

Struggling is not part of my life, for I've entered God's rest!

Victory, success and the blessings of God's Spirit are evident in my life because I've given myself completely to the Word!

ACT 

Meditate on these scriptures :

1). Psalms 27 verse 1 - 6

2). Matthew 11 verse 28

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Rhapsody of Realities - Risen With Christ - 20/06/2015

Pastor Chris

If ye then be risen with Christ, seek those things which are above, where Christ sitteth on the right hand of God (Colossians 3:1).

When Jesus died on the cross, in the mind of justice, the whole world died with Him, because He died for all men. However, Christianity didn't start from His death, but from His resurrection. When God raised Him from the dead, you were raised together with Him, and you became a new creation, alive to God, with the transcendent life. The new creation is the fruit of His redemption (Romans 8:23). You've been brought out of death - spiritual death - into life! You came alive with Christ with His resurrection life.

Knowing this, therefore, knowing that you've been raised together with Christ, and seated with Him in the heavenly realms, the Bible says you should seek those things which are above! Have the consciousness of one who's born from above, and is seated together with Christ in the place of dominion, glory and power! Let the things of God, of His heavenly kingdom to which you've been born, mean more to you than the transient things of this earth.

You're not of this world; you're born from above. 1 Peter 1:23 says, "Being born again, not of corruptible seed, but of incorruptible, by the word of God, which liveth and abideth forever." Jesus is the living Word, and He said of Himself, "I am born from above" (John 8:23)! You were born of the same living Word that came from heaven. Therefore, you too can declare boldly like Jesus, "I am from above!" Have that consciousness. It'll change everything about you, and bring a supernatural perspective to your life.

Speak a different language. Speak like the heavenly man or woman that you are. Refuse to speak sickness, disease, lack, defeat, and failure.

CONFESSION

I'm born again; born of the Word that came from above. I have the same life from above as Jesus. Therefore, I don't condescend to the patterns and afflictions that ravage the lives of men, but I set my affection on the heavenly kingdom, where prosperity, victory, promotion and glory dwell, in Jesus' Name. Amen.

Further Study: 

John 8:23 And he said unto them, Ye are from beneath; I am from above: ye are of this world; I am not of this world.

Ephesians 1:21 Far above all principality, and power, and might, and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this world, but also in that which is to come:

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 9:1-31,
2 Chronicles 35-36

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 2:33-40,
Deuteronomy 18

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities

Rhapsody of Realities - Prosperous And Influential - 19/06/2015

Pastor Chris

And if ye be Christ's, then are ye Abraham's seed, and heirs according to the promise (Galatians 3:29).

The Scriptures chronicle for us Bible characters who were very prosperous; men like Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David, Solomon, etc. God had beautiful testimonies about these ones.

Let's examine some of these men and what the Scriptures recorded about them, beginning with Abraham. The Bible says he "...was very rich in cattle, in silver, and in gold" (Genesis 13:2). Then, Genesis 26:12-14 talks about Abraham's son, Isaac: "...he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him".

Then what about Jacob? Genesis 36:6-7 shows us that Jacob and Esau had so much possessions that they couldn't live together in the same place; the land couldn't support their "combined assets" - herds of livestock. So, Esau had to move a considerable distance away from his brother Jacob. God identified Himself with these three great patriarchs. He said, "...I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob..." (Exodus 3:6).

Another character is David. The Bible tells us that he was "...full of days, wealth, and glory. His son Solomon ruled after him" (1 Chronicles 29:28 MSG). These were God's friends, and God's testimony of them was extraordinary. He called Abraham, "my friend" (James 2:23). He called David "a man after my heart" (Acts 13:22). And both of them were very prosperous. What about Job? The Bible says he was the richest man in all the East (Job 1:3).

Being born again, you're the seed of Abraham; an heir of God, and joint heir with Christ. Therefore, prosperity is your birthright. Believe and live in prosperity. This isn't about amassing wealth for yourself until you don't know what to do with all that you have; it's being who God has made you to be; taking your place as a blessing to others. Read 2 Corinthians 9:8 (AMP) and understand God's idea for your prosperity: "...God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation]."

CONFESSION

I'm connected to an endless stream of prosperity, riches and glory. I'll never be broke and I'll never be poor, because I'm an heir of God and a joint-heir with Christ! I have inestimable and inexhaustible inheritance in Christ Jesus. Amen.

Further Study: 

2 Corinthians 8:9 For ye know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that, though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, that ye through his poverty might be rich. ;

1 Corinthians 3:21 Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours;

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Acts 8:9-40,
2 Chronicles 33-34

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Luke 2:21-32,
Deuteronomy 17

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities