OPEN HEAVENS BY PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE WEDNESDAY 30TH NOVEMBER, 2016. MERCY OR JUDGEMENT?

OPEN HEAVENS BY PASTOR E.A ADEBOYE

WEDNESDAY 30TH NOVEMBER, 2016.

MERCY OR JUDGEMENT?

MEMORISE: Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered. Psalms 32:1

READ: John 8:10-11 (KJV)
10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?
11 She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.

MESSAGE
The story of the woman caught in the act of adultery is typical of the mercy of God and it was in direct contradiction with the judgement of the old era which did not give remedy to the spiritual problem of the people. Psalms 130:3-4 says:

“If thou, Lord, shouldest mark iniquities, O Lord, who shall stand? But there is forgiveness with thee, that thou mayest be feared.”

This passage is a pointer to the fact that mercy is the preferred alternative to judgement. No matter how perfect you may think you are, you do not need to be asked whether you want to give consideration to judgement when there is room for mercy. However, mercy does not come on a platter of gold. The number one thing you must do to obtain mercy is to repent. Proverbs 28:13 says:

“He that covereth his sins shall not prosper: but whoso confesseth and forsaketh them shall have mercy.”

Another factor that can earn you mercy in the place of judgement is your love for God. This love you have for God will prevent you from continuing in sin against Him. Exodus 20:5-6 says:

“….for I the Lord thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto them third and fourth generation of them that hate me; And showing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments.”

Our Lord Jesus Christ corroborates what His Father says in the scripture above when He demands love and practical demonstration of it from his followers. He said in John 14:21:

“He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and I will manifest myself to him.”

Beloved, if indeed, you prefer mercy to judgement, you will choose to love God. To love God requires keeping His commandments. Finally, if you want mercy in the place of judgement, you need to humble yourself before God, acknowledging the fact that you are nothing without Him.

PRAYER POINT:
Father, please show me mercy in the place of judgement. Help me to love you with all my heart.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Exodus 9:1-10:20 and Psalms 112

HYMN 10: WHEN THE TRUMPET OF THE LORD SHALL SOUND
1. When the trumpet of the Lord shall sound, and time shall be no more,
And the morning breaks, eternal, bright and fair;
When the saved of earth shall gather over on the other shore,
And the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there.

Chorus:
When the roll is called up yonder,
When the roll is called up yonder,
When the roll is called up yonder,
When the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there.

2. On that bright and cloudless morning when the dead in Christ shall rise,
And the glory of His resurrection share;
When His chosen ones shall gather to their home beyond the skies,
And the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there.

3. Let us labor for the Master from the dawn till setting sun,
Let us talk of all His wondrous love and care;
Then when all of life is over, and our work on earth is done,
And the roll is called up yonder, I'll be there.

Open Heavens 27 November 2016: Sunday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – A Liberal Heart?

Open Heavens 27 November 2016: Sunday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – A Liberal Heart?

Topic: A Liberal Heart? [Sunday 27, November 2016]

Memorise: Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again. –Luke 6:38

Read: Proverbs 11:25 (KJV)

25 The liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.

Bible in One Year: Exodus 1-3, Psalms 109:1-20

MESSAGE:

When it comes to giving, the truth of the matter is that what you give may leave your hand but it never leaves your life. It is to our own advantage to meet the needs of others around us. When you meet the needs of the Almighty God, He will in turn meet your needs. The truth is that God is the only one who doesn’t have a need. Whenever He tells you He has a need, it is only a strategy by Him to set you up for a miracle. Every child of God should have a liberal heart. You must be very generous in giving as you have been blessed by the Almighty God. When you sow into the lives of others, your soul shall be made fat with pleasure from God and will also be enriched with more grace. It is those who give more that receive more from God. In 1 Kings 17:8-16, God asked the widow to feed the prophet before taking care of herself. At the end of the day, what was not enough became more than enough. To what extent do you practice giving as an individual, family, church or nation?

Those who never give will continue to beg. If you desire to relocate from the side of begging to the side of giving, you have to become liberal. Everyone who would be a partner of Jesus Christ must learn to be a giver. There is nothing you give to God that the Almighty God will not reward you with much more. One thing the Lord makes very clear is that the harvest will always exceed the seed that was harvested. Harvests do not just come, they are planned for. You have to load the sky before it brings forth rain. There are people who are always waiting for the blessing of God when they have not done anything for God. You sow nothing, you reap nothing. Hence, famine is guaranteed for those who fail to sow.

You must never be tired of giving because the reward for your giving will never miss you. Solomon was a typical example of someone who was an ardent giver. No wonder God prospered him. God gave him more than he ever demanded. Some people believe that since they don’t earn much, it is not appropriate to sow; unfortunately, this is why such people remain low income earners. The widow of Zarephath had only one seed, yet she was wise enough to know the appropriate soil to sow the seed. Whenever you have the opportunity to sow, don’t just sow, you have to combine knowledge with the sensitivity of the Holy Spirit so that your seed will not be sown where it cannot be harvested.

There are rewards for the art of giving. The one who gives freely will be taken care of by God. The one who finds it difficult to give will also find it difficult to receive.

Key Point: Your life isn’t meaningful until you answer to the needs of others.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

Open Heavens 24 November 2016: Thursday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Deliverance Made Simple

Open Heavens 24 November 2016: Thursday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Deliverance Made Simple

Topic: Deliverance Made Simple [Thursday 24, November 2016]

Memorise: And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free. – John 8:32

Read: John 8:31-36 (KJV)

31 Then said Jesus to those Jews which believed on him, If ye continue in my word, then are ye my disciples indeed;

32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.

33 They answered him, We be Abraham's seed, and were never in bondage to any man: how sayest thou, Ye shall be made free?

34 Jesus answered them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whosoever committeth sin is the servant of sin.

35 And the servant abideth not in the house for ever: but the Son abideth ever.

36 If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 44-45, Psalms 107:23-32

MESSAGE:

Deliverance constitutes a serious challenge in many Christian circles. In my personal experience, I have discovered that demons bow out easily wherever there is the manifest presence of the Lord. Wherever God is, there is an aura that is unmistakably evident; that aura is the Glory of His presence. For most people who have had a definite experience with God, it is only the glory of God that they could access. Only very few like Moses could go a little further.

The truth remains that the presence of God wields the same power as the Personality of God because where God’s presence is, God Himself is. Several things are possible in His presence, one of which is that idols and the powers behind them not only bow but also surrender. A classic example of this is demonstrated in 1 Samuel 5:1-5. In this account, the nation of Israel fought the Philistines and God gave them into the hands of their enemies because of their disobedience, the Ark of the Covenant was captured and taken into the house of Dagon – the national deity of the Philistines. This Dagon was a huge image, but it fell down before the Ark of the Covenant which represented the Presence of God. Initially, the priests of Dagon thought it was a mistake and put the image back up. But by the following morning, they were convinced beyond reasonable doubts that their idol was bowing to the God of gods.

Some Christians are afraid of entering into a shrine to declare the Gospel of Jesus Christ. It only shows that they do not know what they have inside of them. If you know who you are carrying, there will be no need to fear any idol. If you truly carry the Glory of God and you step into a shrine, they will immediately fish you out and would be uncomfortable until you leave. If you don’t leave, a lot of things will go wrong. In a local community where women were forbidden to go out during a particular idol festival and men were equally harassed, a brother went to the headquarters of the idol worshipers at the peak of their festival to preach Jesus to them. These idols worshippers knew that it could only mean the brother carried a dangerous power for him to have the boldness to walk into their midst. Are you being threatened with some idol and you are afraid? If you are truly a child of God, you should be feared and not the other way round. Are you confronted with a demon possessed person that needs deliverance? Ask God to increase His presence in your life today and you will become a threat to demons.

Prayer Point: Father, make me bold enough to preach the gospel even before demons in Jesus’ name.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

Open Heavens 21 November 2016: Monday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Miracle-Producing Obedience

Open Heavens 21 November 2016: Monday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Miracle-Producing Obedience

Topic: Miracle-Producing Obedience [Monday 21, November 2016]

Memorise: His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it. – John 2:5

Read: John 2:1-11 (KJV)

1 And the third day there was a marriage in Cana of Galilee; and the mother of Jesus was there:

2 And both Jesus was called, and his disciples, to the marriage.

3 And when they wanted wine, the mother of Jesus saith unto him, They have no wine.

4 Jesus saith unto her, Woman, what have I to do with thee? mine hour is not yet come.

5 His mother saith unto the servants, Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.

6 And there were set there six waterpots of stone, after the manner of the purifying of the Jews, containing two or three firkins apiece.

7 Jesus saith unto them, Fill the waterpots with water. And they filled them up to the brim.

8 And he saith unto them, Draw out now, and bear unto the governor of the feast. And they bare it.

9 When the ruler of the feast had tasted the water that was made wine, and knew not whence it was: (but the servants which drew the water knew;) the governor of the feast called the bridegroom,

10 And saith unto him, Every man at the beginning doth set forth good wine; and when men have well drunk, then that which is worse: but thou hast kept the good wine until now.

11 This beginning of miracles did Jesus in Cana of Galilee, and manifested forth his glory; and his disciples believed on him.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 37:12-39:23, Psalms 106:32-48

MESSAGE:

Many people do not know the secret of daily miraculous living. They think it has to do with strange things or occultism. Little do they know that a life of obedience enhances the supernatural intervention that results in miraculous events. It is unfortunate that even some children of God are missing out this truth as well. In our Bible reading for today, we can see the confirmation of the title of today’s devotional reading. There was a marriage ceremony in Cana of Galilee and our Lord Jesus, His family and disciples were present. There came a need that only God could meet. The mother of Jesus Christ knew that the Representative of God was on ground to do what was humanly impossible. So, she approached the Miracle Worker but not without a seemingly negative reaction. It is interesting to note that despite our Lord’s reaction, His mother gave a profound instruction to the waiters. “…Whatsoever he saith unto you, do it.” (John 2:5). Afterwards, Jesus Christ instructed the servants to fill the empty water pots with water and asked them to go ahead and serve it as wine. I decree to someone using this devotional; whatever potential shame the enemies are planning concerning you, God will intervene with a miracle that will nullify it.

There are lessons we must quickly learn from this story; God always involves man in the process of miracle-working events. When man cooperates with God through obedience, he experiences the miraculous. Naaman said that his expectation was that the man of God will come out and touch him. Howbeit, he was disappointed; he was to be part of the process. He had to go and dip himself in the Jordan River seven times before he could experience the miracle he sought for. He almost missed it when he refused to comply with the instruction of the prophet of God.

Another lesson we must learn from this story is that whenever you are trusting God for a miracle, you must not only be ready to receive instruction from God, you must also be attentive to the details of the instruction. After you get the message right, you must then go ahead and carry out the instruction. The servants indeed fetched the water; they also served it as wine under the instruction of our Lord. One may think it is simple to do what the servants did. They took the risk of being accused of playing on the intelligence of the people that came to the ceremony. Beloved, perfect obedience will change your story, just be willing to do whatever God asks you to do.

Prayer Point: Father, give me the spirit that trembles at your Word and does whatever You want me to do.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

Open Heavens 20 November 2016: Sunday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – The Vision of Heaven

Open Heavens 20 November 2016: Sunday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – The Vision of Heaven

Topic: The Vision of Heaven [Sunday 20, November 2016]

Memorise: He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son. – Revelation 21:7

Read: Revelation 21:1-7 (KJV)

1 And I saw a new heaven and a new earth: for the first heaven and the first earth were passed away; and there was no more sea.

2 And I John saw the holy city, new Jerusalem, coming down from God out of heaven, prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.

3 And I heard a great voice out of heaven saying, Behold, the tabernacle of God is with men, and he will dwell with them, and they shall be his people, and God himself shall be with them, and be their God.

4 And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away.

5 And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new. And he said unto me, Write: for these words are true and faithful.

6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely.

7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 35:1-37:11, Psalms 106:13-31

MESSAGE:

You cannot overcome the trials and temptations of life, if you have not caught the vision of heaven. It is the vision of heaven that will encourage, stimulate and empower you to forge ahead as you violently take the Kingdom of God (Matthew 11:12). There is a popular saying: “What you see is what you get”. The underlying truth in this statement is that you cannot aspire for what has not been introduced into your consciousness. I told some of my children in a meeting many years ago, that the reason my father did not struggle to build a house with bathrooms and toilets was that he had never seen a house with toilets and bathrooms.

One of the secrets of the dogged determination of the early disciples to make it to heaven was that most of them saw a vision of heaven. This is the reason why Stephen for example, prayed that his executioners’ actions won’t be counted against them. He caught a vision of heaven with Jesus Christ giving him a standing ovation for being a hero of faith(Acts 7:55-56, 60)

In our Bible reading for today, another prominent leader of the early Church, John the beloved, saw the vision of heaven and narrated what he saw and heard. In heaven, there shall be no more death, sorrow, crying and pain. Having seen all these and heard a great voice out of heaven saying such pleasant things that shall soon come to pass, the Church was determined to lay down their lives for the sake of the Kingdom. As if that was not enough, Jesus Christ in Revelation 21:6-7 said:

“6 And he said unto me, It is done. I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end. I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely. 7 He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.”

When a child of God sees a vision of heaven, he will not need much persuasion to do more than he is currently doing in the Kingdom business of soul-winning and holy living. The reason is that it is only those that overcome that shall inherit the beautiful heavenly Jerusalem. My life never remained the same ever since I started seeing my heavenly home. This is why I cannot be persuaded to slow down in the Kingdom business. Like Apostle Paul, I am still pressing towards the mark of the high calling of God. What about you?

Prayer Point: Father, open my eyes to see a vision of heaven today in Jesus’ name.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL MANUAL LESSON TWELVE SUNDAY, 20TH NOVEMBER 2016 TOPIC: RESTITUTION

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL MANUAL
LESSON TWELVE
SUNDAY, 20TH NOVEMBER 2016
TOPIC: RESTITUTION

MEMORY VERSE: ‘’And Zacchaeus stood, and said unto the Lord; Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have taken anything from any man by false accusation, I restore him fourfold." - Luke 19:8
BIBLE PASSAGE: Leviticus 6:1-7
INTRODUCTION:
Restitution is an act of putting right what has been done wrongly, restoring what has been taken wrongly and repairing or giving any equivalent to loss or damage. It is strictly enjoined in scripture, and is a necessary evidence of true repentance. This is also a very important step for every believer for a clear conscience and good testimony.
LESSON OUTLINES
1. Restitution at various dispensations
2. The blessings of restitution
RESTITUTION AT VARIOUS DISPENSATIONS
The doctrine of restitution has been taught at various dispensations. Before the law, Jacob restituted his ways (Genesis 32:9-32). It was in operation under the law (Leviticus 6:2-5; Numbers 5:6-8; Exodus 22:1-5), and during the period of the kings and the prophets as well (2 Samuel 12:1-6; 2 Kings 8:1-6). This principle of the unchanging Lord is operative at this dispensation of grace as well, right from the times of Jesus Christ and the apostles until now (Luke 19:8-10; Philemon 7-21)
THE BLESSINGS OF RESTITUTION
Dangerous as it may be, if one fails to restitute his or her ways before the Almighty God and his fellow men, the blessings are however numerous and diverse if one obeys. Examples include Abraham (Genesis 13:14-18), Joshua and the conquest of Ai, which initially looked impossible despite its small size until the sin of Achan was restituted (Joshua 7 Compare this with God's promises to Joshua at his commissioning in Joshua 1:1-4).
Other blessings include open heavens (Malachi 3:8-11). God promised to destroy every devourer on behalf of every honest and faithful tithe payer and release blessing through open heavens. There shall be health for the true believer (James 5:14-16). Heaven, the abode of God, shall become the inheritance of the faithful keeper of the doctrine. Heaven is clean and no unclean thing will enter it (Hebrews 12:14).
CONCLUSION:
Much as restitution like any other doctrine of Christ is worth contending for by every Christian, godly wisdom is, however, needed for the purposes of guidance, right timing and peace. We need to be humble enough for this guidance of the Holy Spirit.
QUESTIONS
1. Justify restitution at various dispensations.
2. Mention some of the blessings of restitution

Open Heavens 19 November 2016: Saturday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Trusting the Arm of Flesh?

Open Heavens 19 November 2016: Saturday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Trusting the Arm of Flesh?

Topic: Trusting the Arm of Flesh? [Saturday 19, November 2016]

Memorise: Who art thou, O great mountain? before Zerubbabel thou shalt become a plain: and he shall bring forth the headstone thereof with shoutings, crying, Grace, grace unto it. –Zachariah 4:7

Read: 2 Chronicles 32:1-7 (KJV)

1 After these things, and the establishment thereof, Sennacherib king of Assyria came, and entered into Judah, and encamped against the fenced cities, and thought to win them for himself.

2 And when Hezekiah saw that Sennacherib was come, and that he was purposed to fight against Jerusalem,

3 He took counsel with his princes and his mighty men to stop the waters of the fountains which were without the city: and they did help him.

4 So there was gathered much people together, who stopped all the fountains, and the brook that ran through the midst of the land, saying, Why should the kings of Assyria come, and find much water?

5 Also he strengthened himself, and built up all the wall that was broken, and raised it up to the towers, and another wall without, and repaired Millo in the city of David, and made darts and shields in abundance.

6 And he set captains of war over the people, and gathered them together to him in the street of the gate of the city, and spake comfortably to them, saying,

7 Be strong and courageous, be not afraid nor dismayed for the king of Assyria, nor for all the multitude that is with him: for there be more with us than with him:

Bible in One Year: Genesis 32:22-34:31, Psalms 106:1-12

MESSAGE:

There is nothing you want to become in life that you cannot be, when you leave your life in the hands of the Almighty God. There is nothing you want to achieve in life that you cannot achieve through the help of God. Man is limited; therefore there is a limit to how far he can help you. With God on your side, there is no mountain that cannot become a plain. Coming across a mountain already reveals to you that you need God’s support. Most times, when God wants to give you a testimony that will cause men to marvel, He wraps it up in a mountain and presents it to you. At such times, you don’t focus on the problem, but on the one who can solve the problem. David did not focus on Goliath and his size, he instead focused on the God of Israel and the rest is history.

Those who put their trust in flesh will never have peace. They are never sure of what will happen to them next. You can live in peace when you know that the Lord is by your side no matter what happens. With God on your side, you can look into your glorious future and walk into it as a victor. There will be battles, but with the Almighty God on your side, you are already a victor. After I became the General Overseer, there were mountains I could never have imagined as plains. There were storms and battles, but in the midst of these events, I enjoyed God’s backing because He was the one who called me. This is why I pity those who put their trust in the arm of flesh. The man you are looking at today may be dead tomorrow, but there is a God in Heaven who never dies. The politician you look up to may lose the election tomorrow but there is a God who makes kings. He is the one who pulls one down and lifts the others. If you want to experience a permanent turnaround in your life, you have to cry to the Almighty God concerning that unpleasant situation and you will see help coming your way.

Do you desire to move from being mocked to being celebrated? Then turn to God. Do you want to operate in the miraculous? Turn to God. Have you been ignored and people are trying to push you out of relevance? Cry to God. Have people written you off as ‘never can succeed’? Cry to Jesus and you will see God arise to attend to your case. With God on your side, those arms of flesh who told you that without them you won’t make it will be the ones to ask you “WHO DID IT?” And you will be able to confidently reply them by saying “JESUS, OH MY GOD, WOW!”

Key point: When Jesus is your root, you can never be uprooted by the devil.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

Sharing: Dear parents, HABITS THAT SHOW IMPROPER UPBRINGING IN CHILDREN

Sharing:

Dear parents,

HABITS THAT SHOW IMPROPER UPBRINGING IN CHILDREN

Please, carefully look into the list below to see where you may want to make amends on yourself or the young ones you are caring for.

Children, if not properly groomed may never get to the top in life, even if the parents are at the top of their career.

Manners take you to where your education can't irrespective of your status, money or the "who you know" factor.

1) Going to your child's school dressed indecently? (Think again)

2) Speaking rashly to your child's teacher. (Hun?)

3) Cursing, using foul words or swearing in front of your children. (And you want the child to recite the beatitudes?)

4) Using makeup on children. (It's not necessary)

5) Dressing indecently for children.(they can't handle the pressure it may bring)

6) When your child holds the cup or glassware by the brim and you don't correct.(that's dirty)

7) You dress your child in the latest adult fashion (let them be children as long as they are children, they will be adults for the rest of their lives)

8) Your children don't greet and you just feel they will come around one day because they have a mood swing. ( You will be blamed for it!)

9) Your children eat with their mouth opened and you feel they will grow up some day. (it's gross)

10) Your children bring home something you did not buy for them and you say nothing. ( that is the beginning of stealing)

11) They talk back at you and you conclude it's okay since you are a 21st century parent. ( You will regret not cautioning them in the nearest future)

12) They interrupt when you are speaking with another adult and you think they are bold and clever. (It's really bad manners)

13) They exercise authority over their nanny and domestic staff and you let them be. ( that is bad parenting)

14) They say things like "my driver is on his way..."
(I am not an advocate that children should call your domestic staff aunty or brother, calling them by name when they are not young people is not poise either. The use of Miss, Mr or Mrs will look good on them.)

15) Your children don't say- 'Thank you' when they have been helped or served something and you are cool with that. (It shows you have been negligent)

16) When your children cannot stand children who are less privileged. (come on, where did you start from?)

18) When they pick their nose with their hands.(It's irritating)

19) When they don't wash their hands after visiting the washroom.(you should teach them that)

20) When your children take something from the fridge without taking permission. (hmmm, don't complain when they move to your purse)

21) When your children don't knock on closed doors.(it's just rude)

22) When children can't help you with groceries you carried in as you walk in through the door. (laziness is a terrible habit)

23) When your children request for a bribe to carry out their home chores or extra task. (That is plain disgraceful )

24) When your children act like their grand parents irritate them. (they ought to know better)

25) When your children have not learnt to get up from the chair for the elderly or visitors to sit. (it's a good culture, teach them)

26) When your child tells a lot of lies. (You will both cry in the future)

27) When your child asks "who is that?" at a knock on your door instead of "yes please, who is there." (he mustn't open the door, just answer politely)

28) When your child is always seated by your visitors when being served drinks etc.(that era has passed)

29) When your children still point their fingers at other people. (it's just wrong)

30) When your children play and jump around when prayers are going on.(age 4 above).

Dont be a 21st Century  parent who cannot correct a child to your detriment. Train your child in the way of the Lord so that when he grows up he will not depart from it.

IT IS BETTER TO LET YOUR CHILDREN  CRY AT AN EARLY AGE  WHEN YOU CORRECT THEM, IF NOT YOU WILL BOTH CRY AT NIGHT WHEN THEY BRING DISGRACE TO THE FAMILY WITH BAD AND TERRIBLE BEHAVIOUR

Please circulate to all parents and grandparents that are on your contact list to assure us all a better future.

Open Heavens 13 November 2016: Sunday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Activating the Glory of God

Open Heavens 13 November 2016: Sunday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Activating the Glory of God

Topic: Activating the Glory of God [Sunday 13, November 2016]

Memorise: Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God? – John 11:40

Read: John 11:39-44 (KJV)

39 Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days.

40 Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God?

41 Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me.

42 And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me.

43 And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth.

44 And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 21-23, Psalms 103:1-10

MESSAGE:

God is the only one who has the final say over your life; He will never permit any unpleasant situation to have a final say in your life nor allow your life to be at the mercy of people. He decides what happens to you at every given point in time because He is the Alpha and the Omega. If anybody ever tells you it is over, I congratulate you, because God is about to open a new chapter in your life that will amaze the world. Does your case seem hopeless like that of Lazarus? I prophecy into your life; you are the next in line for a miracle. Have you been married for all these years and you have no child? Welcome to your morning of fruitfulness. Simon Peter was a professional fisherman, he knew when the fishes would be in the river and he went with the right equipment, yet he struggled all night without a breakthrough. You have satisfied all requirements for that position, yet there is no positive response, I decree a supernatural lifting of every embargo placed upon your breakthrough in Jesus’ name.

Believing what God says about the condition we are going through is very vital to our walk as Christians. When we believe the Word of God, we are expressing our confidence and trust in His divine attribute. There is nothing beyond Him. Martha had already given up on Lazarus. According to her, Jesus’ coming was unnecessary because the situation had gone past what He could do anything about. She consoled herself with the fact that on the day of resurrection, she would see her brother again, but she did not recognise that the resurrection is not a period but a person. Jesus is the resurrection and the life. This is why you cannot afford to continue in sin. If you want to activate the glory of God in your life, you have to know Him.

To activate the glory of God, you must have faith in His Word. Faith is an act that produces an evidence of His glory. Faith is what gives meaning to your calling as a child of God. You need faith to do exploit in life. You need faith to win all the battles of life. In the atmosphere of faith, nothing is impossible for you. God dwells in the realm of the supernatural and anyone who will be able to access His glory must operate beyond the normal realm. If we take the Word of Jesus Christ and rely absolutely on His power and faithfulness, we shall see a daily occurrence of the glory of God in all our ways.

You must learn to always look beyond the grave and lift your eyes to God Almighty. Overlook all the reports, conditions, difficulties and obstacles. Lift up your eyes to the Lord in prayer, in praise, in worship and in fasting, and you will be surprised at what the Lord will do. There is no solution elsewhere; the real glory is in Christ Jesus.

Prayer Point: Father, let your glory be made manifest in my life.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL MANUAL LESSON ELEVEN SUNDAY, 13TH NOVEMBER 2016 TOPIC: VICTORY OVER SIN

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL MANUAL

LESSON ELEVEN

SUNDAY, 13TH NOVEMBER 2016

TOPIC: VICTORY OVER SIN

MEMORY VERSE: ‘’Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive
from the dead, members as instruments of
righteousness unto God. " - Romans 6:13

BIBLE PASSAGE: Romans 6:8-14

INTRODUCTION:
After salvation, the deep cry of every heart should be for holiness, to be like Christ, to overcome sin and to live a blameless and holy life. Some
Christians try to be holy and at times they do not succeed so they become discouraged.

They become fearful of preaching holiness lest they be seen as preaching something they cannot
practice. Some Christians have never even heard of the victorious life of holiness so they continue sinning and confessing from day to day. The Bible
teaches glorious victory over sin for every believer. In John 5:4, John was not speaking about victory in Heaven but of victory on earth;
daily victory over the world and the lusts thereof.

LESSON OUTLINES

1. Claiming the promises of God

2. The choice to make

CLAIMING THE PROMISES OF GOD

Did God promise victory over sin for believers?

Yes, He asked us to be holy as He is holy (1 Peter 1:15-16). He, however, added that without Him we can do nothing (John 15:5). That is, without His assistance we cannot live a holy and
victorious life.

Therefore, He decreed that sin shall not have dominion over us (Romans 6:14), that we shall conquer sin through Him (Romans
8:37), for He will cause us to triumph always
through Christ
(2 Corinthians 2:14).
When God promises anything, He will do it. I am to believe the following facts that are established in the word of God:

1. I died with Christ (Galatians 2:20). Death frees a man once and for all from the power and dominion of sin (Romans 6:7). A dead man cannot steal, fornicate, covet or commit any other
sin.

2.  I was buried with Him (Romans 6:4). All that is evil in me should remain permanently buried.

3. I rose with Christ (Romans 6:5). Christ rose with a glorified body, a body over which sin can have no power or dominion.
Since I rose with
Him, sin can no longer have dominion over me.

4. I now have power to live triumphantly with Him (Romans 6:8).

THE CHOICE TO MAKE

As a Christian, I still have my own free will. I can choose or reject a life of victory over sin. If I choose victory, I certainly may have it as a gift from the Lord. If it is true that I am dead to sin with Christ, then, there is only one thing for me to do and this is to yield myself to God (Romans 6:13). If I do this, then I can assume my new
position by faith as someone who is "alive from the dead". It is no longer a question of fighting sin but a matter of yielding to a more powerful force, the power of the resurrected Christ. The
choice, however, is entirely mine to either yield to sin or to Christ (Romans 6:16). If I yield to Christ, I shall be free from the power of sin (Romans 6:18). If I yield to sin, I shall go down from iniquity to iniquity (Romans 6:19).

CONCLUSION:
Probably you have tried to live victoriously before and you have failed. What should be done now? 1 John 1:9 is still true. Jesus has never failed. Your
failure has not weakened Christ. Obey the commands of the Spirit as He directs you in your daily routine.

QUESTIONS
1. Is it possible to live a life of victory over sin?
How?

2. Name two promises of God on the issue

Remain blessed

Open Heavens 11 November 2016: Friday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – What is your Priority?

Open Heavens 11 November 2016: Friday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – What is your Priority?

Topic: What is your Priority? [Friday 11, November 2016]

Memorise: But what things were gain to me, those I counted loss for Christ. – Philippians 3:7

Read: Philippians 3:10-15 (KJV)

10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;

11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.

12 Not as though I had already attained, either were already perfect: but I follow after, if that I may apprehend that for which also I am apprehended of Christ Jesus.

13 Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before,

14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.

15 Let us therefore, as many as be perfect, be thus minded: and if in any thing ye be otherwise minded, God shall reveal even this unto you.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 15:1-18:21, Psalms 102:1-15

MESSAGE:

In the category of the early Apostles, Apostle Paul could be called a latecomer. He was not privileged to be among the direct disciples of Jesus Christ. Nevertheless, this latecomer did more exploit than all the Apostles that were before him. By the time he was through with his period of preparation, the handkerchief of Paul was already performing wonders. It is not how early you begin that matters, but your level of commitment, determination and the amount of sacrifice you make for God. Apostle Paul made a rugged determination to forget his societal status, he left his profession because he knew that time was not on his side. It is not great events that make great people, but great decisions. Apostle Paul decided to count all his gains as loss for the sake of Christ. He abandoned all the self-glory and carried his cross and followed Jesus. The reason why many people have not been able to manifest the way God expects them to, is that they are not ready to burn the bridges behind them.

To become a divine champion, you must take a rugged determination to set your priorities in order, while others are wasting their time with frivolities, you must invest your time in personal spiritual development. The future belongs to those who prepare for it. You have to set your mind on certain things you want to see happen in your life. Apostle Paul pursued his goals relentlessly and nothing ever distracted him from the ultimate picture. There are many people who are far from their miracles because they have refused to let go. There is nothing I left for the sake of the ministry that God has not compensated me for with something much better. You have to make up your mind to forget those average goals and press forward for greater exploits in life. I made up my mind a very long time ago that I would not be an ordinary person. The choice is yours, to be or not to be? I made up my mind that I will be God’s choice forever. This is why I cannot take the grace of God upon my life for granted, because I know that the moment you remove God from my life, there will be nothing left. You must make up your mind that your priorities will be set right. Crave excellence and don’t settle for less. Be a standard for the world to behold in holiness and righteousness. Make up your mind that no matter what the cost is, you will pay it to be God’s favourite.

One thing you can be sure of is that nobody ever gives up something for Christ and not be rewarded here on earth with the assurance of eternity. There is nothing in this world that can ever be measured with the salvation that comes through Jesus. In comparison, there is no basis for comparing the worth of this world to the reward of eternal life. The glory of God that would be revealed to us is far beyond any possible acquisition by the works of man.

Prayer Point: Father, let my life be lived for Your glory.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

Open Heavens 9 November 2016: Wednesday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Why you need Jesus I

Open Heavens 9 November 2016: Wednesday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Why you need Jesus I

Topic: Why you need Jesus I [Wednesday 9, November 2016]

Memorise: And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins. – Matthew 1:21

Read: John 8:1-12 (KJV)

1 Jesus went unto the mount of Olives.

2 And early in the morning he came again into the temple, and all the people came unto him; and he sat down, and taught them.

3 And the scribes and Pharisees brought unto him a woman taken in adultery; and when they had set her in the midst,

4 They say unto him, Master, this woman was taken in adultery, in the very act.

5 Now Moses in the law commanded us, that such should be stoned: but what sayest thou?

6 This they said, tempting him, that they might have to accuse him. But Jesus stooped down, and with his finger wrote on the ground, as though he heard them not.

7 So when they continued asking him, he lifted up himself, and said unto them, He that is without sin among you, let him first cast a stone at her.

8 And again he stooped down, and wrote on the ground.

9 And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst.

10 When Jesus had lifted up himself, and saw none but the woman, he said unto her, Woman, where are those thine accusers? hath no man condemned thee?

11 She said, No man, Lord. And Jesus said unto her, Neither do I condemn thee: go, and sin no more.

12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 8:1-11:9, Psalms 99-100

MESSAGE:

Those who are born of God do not commit sin because the seed of God is in them. The moment a person becomes born-again, sin becomes distasteful to such an individual. The moment a person comes in contact with Jesus; he becomes a new creature. There is no amount of morality and self-righteousness that can declare one a saint, this can be done only through the help of Jesus Christ, because until there is a shedding of blood, there is no remission of sins. The primary reason why Jesus came to the earth is simply to deliver people from sin. The moment sin is removed; there will be a great relationship with God. It is sin that takes us far from God.

Jesus came to destroy the works of the devil and we see this in the life of the woman caught in the act of adultery. There was something Jesus saw that others didn’t see. Jesus saw a sinner afflicted with the works of the devil. Jesus knew that the moment a woman like that comes to the knowledge of the Truth, she would be free from condemnation. Right there, the grace of God found her and she went and sinned no more. There are many honourable things to gain from living a holy life. 2 Timothy 2:19 says:

“Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.”

The moment a person departs from the life of sin and turns to the path of holiness, he becomes a vessel unto the Most-High God. The life of such a person becomes honourable. There are many people who claim to be Christians today but are living in sin. A genuine Christian must keep sin at a distance, live a life of good works through Jesus Christ and be a vessel that is clean both within and without.

Jesus showed the Pharisees their hypocrisy with respect to the case of the woman caught in adultery. They accused Jesus of breaking the law. They wanted to trap Jesus through her case, only to be caught in their own trap. They vanished one after the other by the time Jesus showed them the motives of their actions. This is why you must come to Jesus, no matter how terrible you feel you might have fallen. You cannot fall below His grace.

“But God commendeth his love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.” - Romans 5:8

There is a sure reward for those who forsake the path of sin and choose the path of righteousness. Righteousness will exalt you, but sin will always bring reproach.

Key Point: Who you follow determines what follows you.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

Open Heavens 8 November 2016: Tuesday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Catalysts for Miracles

Open Heavens 8 November 2016: Tuesday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Catalysts for Miracles

Topic: Catalysts for Miracles [Tuesday 8, November 2016]

Memorise: Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. – Mark 9:23

Read: Mark 9:19-29 (KJV)

19 He answereth him, and saith, O faithless generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him unto me.

20 And they brought him unto him: and when he saw him, straightway the spirit tare him; and he fell on the ground, and wallowed foaming.

21 And he asked his father, How long is it ago since this came unto him? And he said, Of a child.

22 And ofttimes it hath cast him into the fire, and into the waters, to destroy him: but if thou canst do any thing, have compassion on us, and help us.

23 Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth.

24 And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief.

25 When Jesus saw that the people came running together, he rebuked the foul spirit, saying unto him, Thou dumb and deaf spirit, I charge thee, come out of him, and enter no more into him.

26 And the spirit cried, and rent him sore, and came out of him: and he was as one dead; insomuch that many said, He is dead.

27 But Jesus took him by the hand, and lifted him up; and he arose.

28 And when he was come into the house, his disciples asked him privately, Why could not we cast him out?

29 And he said unto them, This kind can come forth by nothing, but by prayer and fasting.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 4-7, Psalms 98

MESSAGE:

In the Kingdom of God, there is no room for impossibility. Impossibilities only exist in the realm of the physical. As far as the dictionary of heaven is concerned, everything is possible.

“For with God nothing shall be impossible.” -Luke 1:37

It doesn’t matter how hopeless a situation can be, there is hope in Jesus. Without miracles, signs and wonders, there will never be any credibility to the Christian faith. In the realm of the miraculous, events that are contrary to natural laws can take place. This is because the birth, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ are miracles. But, to operate in the miraculous, you need to first find your identity in Christ Jesus. Your newness in Christ Jesus will give you access to His divinity so that you can call those things that be not as though they are. However, there are certain things that trigger the occurrence of signs and wonders in a person’s life. An understanding of the position of a child of God in the scheme of things will determine how much possibility such a person can command. There are so much wonders that happen when the Name of Jesus is called in righteousness. That Name is enough to silence everything that God has not planted in your life. That Name commands immediate results. There is a release of miracles once the Name is called in Spirit and in truth.

When the irreversible becomes reversible, then the miraculous is at work as we find in the case of Ezekiel and his encounter with the dry bones. I decree into the life of someone reading this devotional; you are the next in line for a miracle in your family. In Genesis 1:3, “God said let there be light” and immediately there was light. Whenever God is present, you can expect miraculous happenings. What is that problem that you are presently facing? By the power of God, it shall be resolved now in Jesus’ name.

Doubts and unbelief are the opposites of the miraculous. When we don’t believe what God is saying concerning any situation, it becomes impossible to receive what God has promised at such times, but if you constantly walk in faith, it will make your testimonies a reference point. Worship is also a catalyst for the miraculous. Every time you get to that point where you forget about your problems and you worship His Person, knowing well that His Person and Power is greater than your problem, you can be sure that your miracle is on its way. Also, when you enforce the Name of Jesus on any situation, you can be sure that the condition will change for the better. At the mention of His name, yokes are destroyed, oppositions naturally give way and long endured problems become a thing of the past. God’s presence in your life is a guarantee for a continuous flow of signs and wonders. If you keep His presence, you will live a life of continuous victory and celebration. 

Prayer Point: Father, let me be the next in line for a miracle.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

Open Heavens 7 November 2016: Monday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Are You Overcoming?

Open Heavens 7 November 2016: Monday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Are You Overcoming?

Topic: Are You Overcoming? [Monday 7, November 2016]

Memorise: Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. –Romans 8:37

Read: John 16:31-33 (KJV)

31 Jesus answered them, Do ye now believe?

32 Behold, the hour cometh, yea, is now come, that ye shall be scattered, every man to his own, and shall leave me alone: and yet I am not alone, because the Father is with me.

33 These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 1-3, Psalms 97

MESSAGE:

God, in His Word, states that everyone who will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. The experience of persecution is part of our heritage as believers in Christ Jesus. The world will treat you in a cruel manner simply because of your faith. They will do many things to hurt you simply because you have chosen to live righteous. There are a lot of prices to pay for being a disciple of Jesus Christ, however, the benefits of following Christ far outweighs its cost. If you truly serve God the way you should, the world will persecute you. That is why I pity those people who live amiably with all and sundry. If you are a genuine believer and the world speaks so well of you and loves you so much, you have to be careful.

“For even hereunto were ye called: because Christ also suffered for us, leaving us an example, that ye should follow his steps:” - 1 Peter 2:21

Following the footsteps of Jesus may involve sufferings of all kinds. There are many people who say they are called into ministry, and they want to start the ministry by having all the comforts of life. They want offices that are fully air-conditioned; they want official cars, a place where their needs can be regularly guaranteed. Of course, there is absolutely nothing wrong with having all these, but it should not become a condition for our response to the calling of God upon our lives. Nobody who is really devoted to serving the Lord will escape the kind of persecutions that people like David, Jeremiah, Daniel, Shedrach, Meshach and Abednego went through. David was persecuted because he killed a giant that Saul was unable to handle. Jeremiah was beaten and cast into prison because he declared the absolute Word of God to a sinful generation. Preaching the truth will always attract persecution, but you can be sure that the blood of those you told the truth will not be demanded from you. Daniel faced a lot of problems simply because he distinguished himself among the governors. Shedrach, Meshach and Abednego were cast into the burning furnace simply because they refused to compromise and bow to other gods.

“Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.” -Romans 8:37

This portion of the scripture tells us that there is no amount of pressure from the pit of hell that can take us away from the love of God. David was a conqueror because God did not stop with him until he got to the throne. Daniel was a conqueror because no king ever served in his life time without having to recourse with him. The same Hebrew boys that were cast into the fiery furnace were the same boys whose God was declared the only One whom the whole nation must worship. The Lord commands us to rejoice when we go through trials in life, because great is our reward. People may say all kinds of evil against you. They may hate you. They may decide not to involve you in any beneficial thing, just to put you off. Do not fret, because you will laugh last.

Prayer Point: Father, please, strengthen me that I may never bow to the pressure of life

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL LESSON 10" Topic; ADULTERY AND FORMICATION: DANGERS AND ANTIDOTES SUNDAY, 6th NOVEMBER 2016.

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL
LESSON 10"
Topic; ADULTERY AND FORMICATION: DANGERS AND ANTIDOTES
SUNDAY, 6th NOVEMBER 2016.

OPENING PRAYER: [ Father,do not let me fall into the snares of adultery and fornication in Jesus' name].

STUDENT'S MANUAL
MEMORY VERSE:
If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy which temple ye are."
I Corinthians 3:17 ].

BIBLE PASSAGE: Proverbs 6:23-29, 32-33 kjv
23 For the commandment is a lamp; and the law is light; and reproofs of instruction are the way of life:
24 To keep thee from the evil woman, from the flattery of the tongue of a strange woman.
25 Lust not after her beauty in thine heart; neither let her take thee with her eyelids.
26 For by means of a whorish woman a man is brought to a piece of bread: and the adulteress will hunt for the precious life.
27 Can a man take fire in his bosom, and his clothes not be burned?
28 Can one go upon hot coals, and his feet not be burned?
29 So he that goeth in to his neighbour's wife; whosoever toucheth her shall not be innocent.
32 But whoso committeth adultery with a woman lacketh understanding: he that doeth it destroyeth his own soul.
33 A wound and dishonour shall he get; and his reproach shall not be wiped away.

LESSON INTRODUCTION : Adultery and fornication are not just sins against God [ I Corinthians 6:19-20), but also against one's soul ( I peter 2:11) and body ( I Corinthians 6:18). Having known the meaning of fornication and adultery and as well as their causes, we shall proceed to consider the inherent dangers or consequences of these sins. We need to also find out the antidotes to and /or remedies for adultery and fornication.

LESSON OUTLINES
1. DANGERS/CONSEQUENCES
2. ANTIDOTES/REMEDIES
DANGERS/CONSEQUENCES
1. Loss of dignity and honor ( Proverbs 6:32-33).
2. Exposure to and transfer of curse and affliction ( Gen. 49:3-4; Judges 16:1-31).
3. Exposure to deadly diseases and unwanted pregnancies ( I Corinthians 3:16-17)
4. Untimely death ( Judges 16:6, 30).
5. Eternal destruction and separation from God ( I Corinthians 6:9; Revelations 21:8; Hebrews 13:4b).

ANTIDOTES/REMEDIES
1. Have a consciousness of sin and fear God ( Genesis 39:9; Romans 6:12-14).
2. Make a covenant with your eyes and flesh not to commit adultery or fornication ( Job 32:1).
3. Abstain from all appearances or resemblance of sexual immorality ( I Thessalonians 5:22).
4. Do not stay at the corridor of adultery and fornication hoping to resist the temptation. Run away as far as your legs can carry you. Lean from Joseph do not be like Samson ( I Corinthians 6:18; Genesis 39:10-12; Judges 16:1).
5. Get married as soon as you are mature to do so ( I Corinthians 7:2; Hebrews 13:4a).
6. Married should strive to mutually satisfy each other in all things and guard against infiltration of strange women and men ( I Corinthians 7:3-5; Proverbs 5:18, 20).
7. Always mediate on the word of God and depend on the strength of the holy Spirit ( Philippians 4:8, 13).
8. Pray for grace to exercise self - control and be sanctified at all times and in all things ( I Corinthians 7:9; I Corinthians 9:25).
9. Glorify God in your body ( I Corinthians 6:20).

CONCLUSION
Run away from every appearances of evil ( I Thessalonians 5:22). Adultery as well as fornication kills.

QUESTIONS
mention and discuss the dangers of adultery and fornication.
2. Discuss four antidotes of and remedies to adultery and fornication.

OPEN HEAVENS SUNDAY 6TH NOVEMBER, 2016. FORSAKING THE WAY?

OPEN HEAVENS
SUNDAY 6TH NOVEMBER, 2016.

FORSAKING THE WAY?

Memorise: For Demas hath forsaken me, having loved this present world, and is departed unto Thessalonica; Crescens to Galatia, Titus unto Dalmatia. 2 Timothy 4:10

READ: Luke 9:57-62
9:57 And it came to pass, that, as they went in the way, a certain man said unto him, Lord, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.
9:58 And Jesus said unto him, Foxes have holes, and birds of the air have nests; but the Son of man hath not where to lay his head.
9:59 And he said unto another, Follow me. But he said, Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father.
9:60 Jesus said unto him, Let the dead bury their dead: but go thou and preach the kingdom of God.
9:61 And another also said, Lord, I will follow thee; but let me first go bid them farewell, which are at home at my house.
9:62 And Jesus said unto him, No man, having put his hand to the plough, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Revelation 19:11-22:21; Psalms 96

MESSAGE
In the Bible reading of today, some of those who were invited by Jesus could not come because they had excuses. On that day, when we shall all stand before the Almighty God, there will no longer be any excuses. Anyone who desires to please God and withstand the storms of life must not allow anything to hinder him from making it to the Kingdom.

There are many people who started well but didn't end well because of the distractions of life. There are many things people do, which unknown to them, enslaves them to the devil. Demas forsook the faith because of his love for the world. Are you also forsaking God for riches? If others are decieved, you must not allow yourself to be a victim. This is why I always emphasise the fact that who or what you follow determines what follows you.

It is very obvious that Demas, who started well, missed it down the line because he did not set his priorities right. He totally abandoned the missionary support of Apostle Paul and became engrossed with the business of this world. This business consumed the thinking of Demas to the point that he was no longer relevant in the business of the Kingdom.

While others continued with Paul on evangelistic responsibilities, Demas went back to the world. This will not be your lot in Jesus' name. In the world today, innumerable people are allowing the love of money to capture their hearts; they have wandered away from the Presence of God. Money is temporal and not eternal, money cannot buy joy; it cannot buy the peace of God.

It is only the blessing of the Almighty God that makes one rich without any sorrow added to it. The desire to satisfy the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes and the pride of life is what is deceiving many. Some people are always concerned about what they don't have and what God has not done. There is no better life outside Jesus Christ.

What is that thing that you value over and above your salvation? It is the plan and purpose of God that you focus on Him for all your needs. No matter how much energy you put into the pursuance of the mundane things of this world, they are not enough to make you Blessed. It is the blessing and joy of the Lord that makes one to be at peace.

Beloved, you have to call yourself to order, you have to make a commitment to focus on Jesus Christ, the author and finisher of our faith. Anyone who seeks to be a genuine follower of Jesus Christ must be willing to deny himself and live above the ephemerals of this present world. If you will pursue God, money and all that money cannot buy would pursue you. If you don't forsake Him, His goodness and mercy will follow you daily.

PRAYER POINT:
Father, help me never to forsake you for anything in this world.

Open Heavens 4 November 2016: Friday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Enslaved by Falsehood?

Open Heavens 4 November 2016: Friday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Enslaved by Falsehood?

Topic: Enslaved by Falsehood? [Friday 4, November 2016]

Memorise: Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight. –Proverbs 12:22

Read: Genesis 3:1-6 (KJV)

1 Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?

2 And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden:

3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.

4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die:

5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.

6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.

Bible in One Year: Revelation 12-15, Psalms 94

MESSAGE:

There are dangerous traps of the devil set to derail people from inheriting their possessions in Christ Jesus. There are many people who have been deceived and enslaved in falsehood because they were not sensitive. This is why Jesus warned that if care is not taken, even the very elect will fall for the deceits of the devil. By all standards, lies are the devil’s greatest weapons with which he enslaves people into falsehood. A lie is anything other than the absolute truth. The first man and woman to exist on the earth were victims of lie when the devil intentionally misinterpreted the instructions that God gave them to keep. It is upon this that the Bible tells us to be as wise as serpents, because the devil will always try to prove to the children of God how ‘unreasonable’ the commandments of God are. You have to make up your mind to obey God rather than question simple instructions that are intended to make you happy and give you rest. The devil will also make efforts to question the reputation of God. Some teachers have taught that one can continue in sin since grace abounds. False teachers will tell you to live your life as you deem it fit because there is liberty in Christ. These are all lies of the devil; those who fall for them will always have woeful experiences. The scripture tells us not only to hate lies but to keep the utmost distance from it because those who engage in lies are abominable in the sight of God.

We need to be men and women who delight in the truths of God in all matters. The problem with human beings is that we always do not appreciate the truth when we find it. There are people who prefer to seek counsel from people that will destroy them through wrong counsels. Some people know that there is nothing biblical about their church, yet they remain in such places.

There are various wolves in sheep clothing parading themselves as true prophets sent by God, but if you allow the Lord to open your eyes, you will see clearly who they are. Many people have suffered untold damages in the hands of the fake prophets; this is why you need to be watchful. If you are a liar, or you are engaged in anything fraudulent, you need to stop it before the wrath of God comes upon you. If you are living a life that misrepresents the Kingdom of God, you have to quickly amend your ways before it becomes too late. If you give yourself to ungodly living, you will be enslaved by falsehood because you have refused to retain God in your knowledge. Are you under a ‘man of God’ who is performing miracles, signs and wonders, but whose life does not resemble that of Christ? I will advise that you relocate immediately to where the Truth will find you.

Key Point: You shall know the Truth and the Truth will set you free.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

Open Heavens 4 November 2016: Friday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Enslaved by Falsehood?

Open Heavens 4 November 2016: Friday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Enslaved by Falsehood?

Topic: Enslaved by Falsehood? [Friday 4, November 2016]

Memorise: Lying lips are abomination to the LORD: but they that deal truly are his delight. –Proverbs 12:22

Read: Genesis 3:1-6 (KJV)

1 Now the serpent was more subtil than any beast of the field which the LORD God had made. And he said unto the woman, Yea, hath God said, Ye shall not eat of every tree of the garden?

2 And the woman said unto the serpent, We may eat of the fruit of the trees of the garden:

3 But of the fruit of the tree which is in the midst of the garden, God hath said, Ye shall not eat of it, neither shall ye touch it, lest ye die.

4 And the serpent said unto the woman, Ye shall not surely die:

5 For God doth know that in the day ye eat thereof, then your eyes shall be opened, and ye shall be as gods, knowing good and evil.

6 And when the woman saw that the tree was good for food, and that it was pleasant to the eyes, and a tree to be desired to make one wise, she took of the fruit thereof, and did eat, and gave also unto her husband with her; and he did eat.

Bible in One Year: Revelation 12-15, Psalms 94

MESSAGE:

There are dangerous traps of the devil set to derail people from inheriting their possessions in Christ Jesus. There are many people who have been deceived and enslaved in falsehood because they were not sensitive. This is why Jesus warned that if care is not taken, even the very elect will fall for the deceits of the devil. By all standards, lies are the devil’s greatest weapons with which he enslaves people into falsehood. A lie is anything other than the absolute truth. The first man and woman to exist on the earth were victims of lie when the devil intentionally misinterpreted the instructions that God gave them to keep. It is upon this that the Bible tells us to be as wise as serpents, because the devil will always try to prove to the children of God how ‘unreasonable’ the commandments of God are. You have to make up your mind to obey God rather than question simple instructions that are intended to make you happy and give you rest. The devil will also make efforts to question the reputation of God. Some teachers have taught that one can continue in sin since grace abounds. False teachers will tell you to live your life as you deem it fit because there is liberty in Christ. These are all lies of the devil; those who fall for them will always have woeful experiences. The scripture tells us not only to hate lies but to keep the utmost distance from it because those who engage in lies are abominable in the sight of God.

We need to be men and women who delight in the truths of God in all matters. The problem with human beings is that we always do not appreciate the truth when we find it. There are people who prefer to seek counsel from people that will destroy them through wrong counsels. Some people know that there is nothing biblical about their church, yet they remain in such places.

There are various wolves in sheep clothing parading themselves as true prophets sent by God, but if you allow the Lord to open your eyes, you will see clearly who they are. Many people have suffered untold damages in the hands of the fake prophets; this is why you need to be watchful. If you are a liar, or you are engaged in anything fraudulent, you need to stop it before the wrath of God comes upon you. If you are living a life that misrepresents the Kingdom of God, you have to quickly amend your ways before it becomes too late. If you give yourself to ungodly living, you will be enslaved by falsehood because you have refused to retain God in your knowledge. Are you under a ‘man of God’ who is performing miracles, signs and wonders, but whose life does not resemble that of Christ? I will advise that you relocate immediately to where the Truth will find you.

Key Point: You shall know the Truth and the Truth will set you free.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

Open Heavens 3 November 2016: Thursday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Matrimonial Robber?

Open Heavens 3 November 2016: Thursday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Matrimonial Robber?

Topic: Matrimonial Robber? [Thursday 3, November 2016]

Memorise: And why wilt thou, my son, be ravished with a strange woman, and embrace the bosom of a stranger? – Proverbs 5:20

Read: Malachi 2:14-16 (KJV)

14 Yet ye say, Wherefore? Because the LORD hath been witness between thee and the wife of thy youth, against whom thou hast dealt treacherously: yet is she thy companion, and the wife of thy covenant.

15 And did not he make one? Yet had he the residue of the spirit. And wherefore one? That he might seek a godly seed. Therefore take heed to your spirit, and let none deal treacherously against the wife of his youth.

16 For the LORD, the God of Israel, saith that he hateth putting away: for one covereth violence with his garment, saith the LORD of hosts: therefore take heed to your spirit, that ye deal not treacherously.

Bible in One Year: Revelation 8-11, Psalms 93

MESSAGE:

There are some people who never knew what sickness, failure, poverty or stagnation was until they committed fornication or adultery. Fornication/adultery is a sin that attracts the automatic wrath of God because it involves your Body, Soul and Spirit. Those who secretly engage in the sin of adultery end up being reduced to a piece of bread. Some think that as long as their sins are not found out, they are safe. Ask King David, he will tell you that your sins will always find you out. Fornication and adultery will reduce you to a state of nothingness. Every precious thing in you will shut down permanently, the grace of God upon your life will be automatically removed and you will immediately become exposed to all forms of satanic attack. The cover of the Almighty God is removed and shame and reproach will become a daily occurrence to such a person. It doesn’t matter how long you may have spent in building your life, it begins to crash the moment you invite destruction.

A righteous person will be wise enough to avoid the dangers that come with the act of immorality. Joseph understood this and preferred that his garment be torn in the hands of Mrs Potiphar than that his destiny and colourful future be destroyed by a few minutes of pleasure. All those who give excuses about the negative sides of their spouses as an excuse for sleeping around are only being foolish. There is nothing outside that is not already given to you by God through your wife or husband. Don’t allow your life to end in shame and disgrace, because that is always the end of those who continue in extra-marital affairs. Stay with the spouse that God has given you and receive your emotional nourishment from that spouse. If you can’t find contentment in your marriage, then you can be sure you will never really find it anywhere else.

The plan and purpose of God for marriage is – one man to one woman. There is no perfect man or woman anywhere, you have to work with what/who you have, make lemonade out of your lemons.

You must stay far away from those people who can cause you to sin. This was the case with Samson in the book of Judges. Everywhere Samson went; his focus was always on woman, and he lost his life and all he had through a woman. You have to examine yourself to find out if there is any possible channel through which you can become a victim of fornication or adultery. Disconnect yourself from that man or that woman that wants to disconnect you from the place of grace. God is not just holy; He wants us to be partakers of His holiness. It is the holiness of God that secures the grace of God in our lives.

Action Point: A righteous man is identified by how much he loves righteousness and hates sin.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

Open Heavens 2 November 2016: Wednesday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Hater of God?

Open Heavens 2 November 2016: Wednesday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Hater of God?

Topic: Hater of God? [Wednesday 2, November 2016]

Memorise: Thus saith the LORD; Cursed be the man that trusteth in man, and maketh flesh his arm, and whose heart departeth from the LORD. – Jeremiah 17:5

Read: Romans 1:28-32 (KJV)

28 And even as they did not like to retain God in their knowledge, God gave them over to a reprobate mind, to do those things which are not convenient;

29 Being filled with all unrighteousness, fornication, wickedness, covetousness, maliciousness; full of envy, murder, debate, deceit, malignity; whisperers,

30 Backbiters, haters of God, despiteful, proud, boasters, inventors of evil things, disobedient to parents,

31 Without understanding, covenantbreakers, without natural affection, implacable, unmerciful:

32 Who knowing the judgment of God, that they which commit such things are worthy of death, not only do the same, but have pleasure in them that do them.

Bible in One Year: Revelation 3:14-7:17, Psalms 92

MESSAGE:

The situation around us today requires quick intervention because the society is becoming unsafe due to emerging trends. There are many people rising up in many quarters, questioning the rationality of looking unto God. They hate the idea of putting God at the centre of human knowledge and existence. They question the efficacy of God’s knowledge and authority, and this is making the love of some believers wax cold. Haters of God are those who put the fear of man over and above the fear of God. They believe more in the inventions of man than in the creation of God. They are those who rely in their vain imagination rather than the absolute truth of God. They prefer to stay away from God and His house because they don’t want His truth to locate them. They prefer to use their wisdom to solve their problems rather than find solution in Christ alone. When they are in trouble, the first thing on their minds is running to the wrong place for solution, which eventually compounds their problem.

Looking up to a man when one should trust God can be a very futile endeavour. Those who put their confidence in man will always end up with frustrating experiences. If you keep to God He will keep you in perfect peace. There are many people who have no experience of what the Peace of God is. May this never be your portion in Jesus’ name.

Haters of God allow their hearts to be dominated by impure thoughts. They allow demons to control their hearts, and this is why they find it impossible to experience the Peace of God. You can make up your mind this day to be a lover of God.

Those who hate God will never know the peace of God. Don’t allow the power of hell to dominate your life. Every place of activity through which evil ideas come into your life must be avoided. Separate yourself totally from those things separating you from the blessings of God. Keep a distance from those negative connections and influences that lure you into evil including internet views and impure television programmes. Stop feeding your eyes with lust inducing items and materials. Don’t give yourself further to those things that will attract the wrath of God upon your life, things such as masturbation, fornication, incest, rape, same sex relationship, occultism, and pornography. Through the power of God, you can dominate these evil practices that keep you away from the grace of God.

Prayer Point: Father, please give me the grace to please you.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.

Open Heavens 1 November 2016: Tuesday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Grieve not the Holy Spirit

Open Heavens 1 November 2016: Tuesday daily devotional by Pastor E. A. Adeboye – Grieve not the Holy Spirit

Topic: Grieve not the Holy Spirit [Tuesday 1, November 2016]

Memorise: And grieve not the holy Spirit of God, whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption. – Ephesians 4:30

Read: Matthew 12:24-31 (KJV)

24 But when the Pharisees heard it, they said, This fellow doth not cast out devils, but by Beelzebub the prince of the devils.

25 And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand:

26 And if Satan cast out Satan, he is divided against himself; how shall then his kingdom stand?

27 And if I by Beelzebub cast out devils, by whom do your children cast them out? therefore they shall be your judges.

28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.

29 Or else how can one enter into a strong man's house, and spoil his goods, except he first bind the strong man? and then he will spoil his house.

30 He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.

31 Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy against the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.

Bible in One Year: Revelation 1:1-3:13, Psalms 91

MESSAGE:

There are many Christians living in frustration and defeat because they have set themselves against the flow of the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit is the key to the outpouring of revival and every endeavour in this new dispensation. The Holy Spirit is the secret behind every supernatural occurrence. Do you desire to know the plan of God for your tomorrow? Get the Holy Spirit. Do you want to live a successful Christian life? Get the Holy Spirit. Without the power of the Holy Spirit, you will live a life of continuous defeat. As helpful as the Holy Spirit is, one should be careful in relating with Him. Ananias and Saphirra lied to Peter about how much they sold their land. They felt they were deceiving Peter, unfortunately, it was too late for them to realise that they had grieved the Holy Spirit. Whereby ye are sealed unto the day of redemption.

There are numerous ways by which people grieve the Holy Spirit. The moment a person begins to rebel against the instructions in God’s Word, such a fellow is asking for trouble from the Holy Spirit. At several points in the life of the children of Israel, they murmured against God. They were never satisfied with His provision. Psalms 78:40says:

“How oft did they provoke him in the wilderness, and grieve him in the desert!”

They grieved God for forty years in the wilderness. Their hearts were hardened and they refused to acknowledge the ways of God. As a result of this attitude, they were not allowed to enter into the rest of the Lord. May this not be your portion in Jesus’ name.

Another way people can grieve the Holy Spirit is when they despise the truth of God’s Word. The apostle, in 1 Thessalonians 5:19 said that the church must not quench the Spirit of God. The Holy Spirit can be grieved when disciples begin to disobey God. Believers today should do everything possible to pattern their lives after the beliefs and practices that were maintained by the disciples of the early church. There should be no room for bitterness or evil feelings towards one another. There are some people who make deliberate attempts to deceive their leaders. Some try to act very cleverly. Some Christians still see themselves as being smart because their sins have not yet been found out. All these people are only waiting for the judgement of God unless they repent. Do not do anything that will make you an enemy to the Holy Spirit. Do not make yourself a stumbling block to the progress of others around you. Don’t have the ‘pull it down’ mind-set. Don’t scatter the good works others have done simply because you are in a position of influence. All those who do these will see the anger of God.

The Holy Spirit must not be grieved. He is always working hard against sinners. You have to allow the Holy Spirit to breathe on you with the breath of God so that your life can be filled anew. When your life is filled anew, you will find it easy to love what He loves.

Prayer Point: Father, help me not to grieve your Holy Spirit.

Open Heavens Daily Devotional guide was written by Pastor E.A. Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, one of the largest evangelical church in the world and also the President of Christ the Redeemer's Ministries.