Called To Preserve Lives

Monday, December 30th 2013

-Pastor Anita-

Topic: Called To Preserve Lives

And God sent me before you to preserve you a posterity in the earth, and to save your lives by a great deliverance (Genesis 45:7).

Consider the man Joseph, in the Bible: His brothers hated him and wanted to kill him, but later sold him as a slave to a band of travellers, who, in turn, sold him to an Egyptian named Potiphar (Genesis 37). Potiphar observed that God had blessed him because of Joseph, and as a result, he put Joseph in charge of his entire estate.

Things eventually went awry when Potiphar’s wife lied against Joseph, and he was thrown into prison. However, right there in prison, the Lord was with Joseph and blessed him, so that the jailer was pleased with him. He then put Joseph in charge of all the other prisoners and made him the overseer in the prison (Genesis 39:21-22).

Meanwhile, Pharoah’s chief butler, and his baker had also been jailed in the same prison where Joseph was incarcerated. On a certain night, they both had two separate dreams that got them troubled. Joseph interpreted both their dreams, but it so happened only the chief butler’s dream had a favourable outcome: he was released within three days and restored to his former position of chief butler, just as Joseph interpreted.

Eventually, Pharaoh himself had a dream and became troubled by it. The butler, at this point, remembered Joseph and mentioned him to Pharaoh. Joseph interpreted Pharaoh’s dreams, and thereafter was made the prime minister of Egypt. Soon, there was famine in Canaan and all the adjoining countries, but because of Joseph, Egypt was spared the agony of a devastating famine.During the famine, Joseph’s brothers who sold him into slavery came to Egypt to buy food, and Joseph was in charge of all the food in Egypt, but they didn’t recognize him. Read his moving words to his brothers when he eventually made himself known to them: “And Joseph said unto his brethren...I am Joseph your brother, whom ye sold into Egypt. Now therefore be not grieved, nor angry with yourselves, that ye sold me hither: for God did send me before you to preserve life” (Genesis 45:4-5).

God has entrusted you with the responsibility of preserving the lives of those in your chariot of life: your schoolmates, colleagues, business associates, neighbours, family members, friends, and loved ones. When they’re facing hard and difficult times, intercede in prayer until there’s a change in their situation. If you work in an organization, pray for its prosperity, for in its prosperity, you’ll also prosper (Jeremiah 29:7).

Prayer
Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for the privilege you’ve given me to preserve the lives of those I come in contact with, and affect them positively. I decree that they walk in divine prosperity, deliverance, health, victory, abundance, strength and promotions, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

further study:
obadiah 1:21; Isaiah 42:5-7

1year bible reading plan:
Revelation 21:1-27, Malachi 1-2

2 year bible reading plan:
Acts 5:12-23, Ezra 9-10

He Laid Down His Life For You!

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
He Laid Down His Life For You! · Wednesday, December 25th ·

Pastor Chris

Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends (John 15:13).

The Lord Jesus laid down His life for us. No other shepherd, before or after Him, ever did that. He wasn’t the firstto be crucified, but He was the firstto be crucified in the place of others, surrendering Himself of His own free will. He could have delivered Himself from His captors as they led Him to the cross, but He didn’t. He chose to go on and die for us all; it wasn’t that He had no option; He was driven by love.

Jesus did everything He did because He loved us; when He declared His purpose for coming in St. John’s Gospel it was that we might have life, and that we might have it to the full (John 10:10). Testifying before Pilate in John 18:37 He said, "…To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice." He came to bear witness to the truth. What is that truth?

He declared it in John 3:16: "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life." Jesus was born for us, lived for us, and died for us because of His love for us. As we celebrate His birth today, let your focus be on the purpose for which He came, lived, died, and rose again triumphantly. It was so that you might have eternal life—the God-kind of life—and become one with the Father.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for loving me with an everlasting love, and for sending Jesus to pay the price for my salvation. I yield my life completely to you, and declare that your will and purpose are perfected in me today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: John 10:10-13; Romans 5:6-8

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Zechariah 1-3 Revelation 17:1-18

2 Year Reading Plan : Acts 3:12-26 Ezra 3-4

1 Rest in Jesus Faith for miracles

Jesus is the way

Joseph Prince - Jesus' Light Dispels Every Darkness In Your Life

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You Have Overcome The World

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
You Have Overcome The World · Friday, July 26th ·

Pastor Chris
...
And there shall be signs in the sun, and in the moon, and in the stars; and upon the earth distress of nations, with perplexity; the sea and the waves roaring; Men’s hearts failing them for fear…(Luke 21:25-26).

The events we see in the world today are indications that these are difficult times. Many are disturbed, distraught, and perplexed about their health, finances, jobs, and businesses. Though the Scriptures declare that perilous times will come upon the earth, the believer is enjoined not to fear: "… In the world you shall have tribulation and trials and distress and frustration; but be of good cheer [take courage; be confident, certain, undaunted]! For I have overcome the world. [I have deprived it of power to harm you and have conquered it for you.]" (John 16:33 AMP).

You’re not of this world! God has separated you from the world, and given you a life that’s beyond this world; a life of faith and victory through the Word. Your faith is the victory that overcomes the world. You’re more than a conqueror. Greater is He that is in you, than he that is in the world. God has given you a light—His Word—with which to walk through the darkness.

You’ll live victoriously and triumphantly above sickness, disease, inflation and terror as you walk in God’s Word. His power is available in His Word; and you can put that power to work to produce results. It therefore doesn’t matter the extent of the darkness or hardship in the world today; they are opportunities for you to shine and manifest the glory of God. Isaiah 60:2 says, "For, behold, the darkness shall cover the earth, and gross darkness the people: but the Lord shall arise upon thee, and his glory shall be seen upon thee." Job 22:29 says, "When men are cast down, then thou shalt say, There is lifting up…."

There’s lifting up for you in Christ; so cheer up, for Christ in you is your hope of glory. Hold your head up high and declare, "Christ in me, is my victory over the world."

Confession

My faith is the victory that overcomes the world. Christ in me is my hope of a triumphant and glorious today, and an excellent future; my life is secure in Him who causes all things to work together for my good!

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Mark 5:36; Mark 11:23

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Romans 1:18-32, Psalms 35-37

2 Year Reading Plan : Luke 11:14-26 Joshua 24

The Power That Works In You

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
The Power That Works In You · Thursday, July 25th ·
Pastor Chris

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen (Ephesians 3:20-21)....

What an inspiring thought revealed to us in our theme verse! It says "Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us…." It didn’t say "…according to the power that worketh in heaven." This explains that you have a role in the operations of the miraculous in your life. The glory of God is manifested in your life according to the power that works in you.

Even though God, in His sovereignty, can cause certain things to happen for you, He doesn’t want to work outside of you. Some Christians often feel discouraged and frustrated because they’re "praying to God to do something for them," yet to no avail. The issue isn’t with God; they’re the ones to activate the power of God in them, to bring about the desired changes.

In Paul’s epistle to the Philippians, we read of his personal testimony to this effect; he understood that the ability to do the supernatural wasn’t rested in heaven but within him. By the Spirit he said, "I can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth me." Notice that he didn’t say "We can do all things through Christ which strengtheneth us"; rather, this was his personal testimony. What a mentality! Paul couldn’t think failure, defeat or impossibilities; he knew the ability of the Spirit had been granted him to achieve supernatural results, and he spoke accordingly.

Become conscious that God lives in you in His fullness, which means all His power and eternal might are domiciled in your spirit. How do you activate that power to work for you? It’s by consciously meditating on the Word, and speaking in tongues. You can bring that power to bear today on anything, or any area of your life.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for your power that fills me through and through. I can do all things through Christ who energizes me from within! I’m prepped for your glory today, being conscious of the supernatural ability of the Spirit that’s at work in me mightily, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Colossians 1:29; Acts 1:8; Micah 3:8

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Romans 1:1-17, Psalms 32-34

2 Year Reading Plan : Luke 11:1-13 Joshua 23

Born With Wealth Untold

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
Born With Wealth Untold · Wednesday, July 24th ·

Pastor Anita
...
Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours (1 Corinthians 3:21).

Riches, wealth, and honour come from God (1 Chronicles 29:12). He gave these to Abraham and his seed, and Galatians 3:16 lets us know that Christ is the Seed of Abraham: "Now to Abraham and his seed were the promises made. He saith not, And to seeds, as of many; but as of one, And to thy seed, which is Christ." Christ inherited all the blessings of Abraham, and if you belong to Christ, you’re Abraham’s seed, and all the promises that were made to Christ belong to you. "And if ye be Christ’s, then are ye Abraham’s seed, and heirs according to the promise" (Galatians 3:29).

Now, you shouldn’t ask God to make you rich. He doesn’t need to, because you were born the very heir of all the riches and wealth He could ever give, when you were born again. Not only were you born with wealth untold, He gave you the power to get wealth. What you need now is to know the Word of God to chart your course. You can prosper at any level of life and career. Irrespective of your job description, business, country or state, you can be prosperous through Christ.

Don’t let the things people say about the economy shake you. The wealth of this world isn’t reducing. Money is man-made, and it doesn’t determine your wealth. Your wealth will determine how much money is available to you, because money gravitates to men and women of wealth. Isaiah 60:11 says, "Therefore thy gates shall be open continually; they shall not be shut day nor night; that men may bring unto thee the forces of the Gentiles, and that their kings may be brought."

Confession

I’m an offspring of the Most High, possessor of heaven and earth, and I’m the seed of Abraham, heir of the world. My prosperity is unlimited, for I was born with wealth untold. I lay up gold as dust, and the riches of the nations gravitate to me. Halleluiah!

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Haggai 2:8; Psalms 112:1-3

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Acts 28:17-31, Psalms 30-31

2 Year Reading Plan : Luke 10:38-42, Joshua 22

Submit To His Righteousness

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
Submit To His Righteousness · Tuesday, July 23rd .

Pastor Chris
...
Brethren, my heart’s desire, and prayer to God for Israel is, that they might be saved. For I bear them record that they have a zeal of God, but not according to knowledge. For they being ignorant of God’s righteousness, and going about to establish their own righteousness, have not submitted themselves unto the righteousness of God (Romans 10:1-3).

Isaiah 64:6 tells us that man’s righteousness: his own thought-out ways of trying to serve and please God, are as filthy rags. There’s no use having confidence in your so-called good works, to answer for you before God.

This was the dilemma of the children of Israel, which the Apostle Paul decried in our opening text. Though they were zealous for God and engaged in all forms of religious devotions, purifications, oblations, etc., they erred in three distinct ways in their pursuit of righteousness. First, they were ignorant of God’s righteousness, secondly, they went about to establish their own righteousness, and thirdly, they didn’t submit themselves to the righteousness of God.

The third point gives an indication of God’s expectation: we’re to submit to His righteousness, because righteousness isn’t something you attain by your own works; it’s a gift from God. Romans 5:17 says, "…they which receive abundance of grace and of the gift of righteousness shall reign in life by one, Jesus Christ." The requirement to attain the righteousness of God is simply to believe in Jesus Christ with all your heart and receive the gift of eternal life. That’s why it’s called righteousness by faith.

Philippians 3:8-9 tells us to embrace this righteousness which is through the faith of Christ Jesus: "…that I may win Christ, and be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith." This righteousness produces in you the rightness of God, such that by instinct you know what is right, and are able to live blameless before God. You didn’t work to attain it, yet it works in you, having been imparted to your spirit as a gift.

Confession

The righteousness of God has been imparted to my spirit, therefore I have the ability to do right, and live joyfully without blame be fore the Father, for His righteousness in me gives me right standing with Him, and superiority over Satan and the demons of darkness.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: 2 Corinthians 5:21; Romans 3:21-22

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Acts 28:1-16, Psalms 26-29

2 Year Reading Plan : Luke 10:25-37,Joshua 20-21

"Phronesis" Is A Force"

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
"Phronesis" Is A Force · Monday, July 22nd ·

Pastor Chris
...
And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore (1 Kings 4:29).

The word translated "wisdom" above is the Greek "phronesis" and it’s a force that controls you. It’s a spiritual elixir that locates you within the framework of God’s will, beyond your natural understanding, causing you to do God’s things God’s way, in God’s time for God’s purpose! It’s also a mind-set; an excellent mind-set that causes you to think in a certain way and to say the right things in the right way at the right time for the right purpose in the right place.

This was the wisdom Solomon received from the Lord that caused him to excel in good judgment, so much so that the Bible says, "…there came of all people to hear the wisdom of Solomon, from all kings of the earth, which had heard of his wisdom" (1Kings 4:34). God gave Solomon an extraordinary amplitude of comprehension; he had practical wisdom.

"Phronesis" propels you to make accurate choices, sound judgments and decisions, and to do things right the first time. You can develop "phronesis" through studying and meditating on the Word of God and through praying in the Holy Ghost—speaking in tongues. "O, but I thought the Word says Christ has been made unto us wisdom from God?" you might ask.

Yes. But that wisdom is "sophia" (Greek) which means theoretical wisdom, or insight into reality; it means all the collective understanding of all things. There’s also a third kind of wisdom called "sunesis"; this is critical wisdom; the ability to understand concepts and see relationships between them. It suggests a quickness of apprehension; the penetrating consideration which precedes actions. Whereas, "phronesis" is practical wisdom; it’s a force that makes you do and say the right things before you even think.

God gives you "sophia"—insight into reality, so that you can have "sunesis"—an understanding, for the purpose of developing in you "phronesis"; a mind-set for a successful and extraordinary life.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for your Word that imparts wisdom to my spirit, and gives me a mind-set for success, victory and dominion. I deal excellently in all my affairs today, and make accurate judgments and decisions because of your wisdom that propels me from within, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: James 1:5

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Acts 27:27-44, Psalms 23-25

2 Year Reading Plan : Luke 10:10-24, Joshua 19

Proclaim The Word Of Faith

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
Proclaim The Word Of Faith · Sunday, July 21st ·

Pastor Anita

Then they cry unto the Lord in their trouble, and he saveth them out of their distresses. He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions (Psalm 107:19-20).

Someone once exclaimed out of frustration, "I’ve been praying to God to help me out of my situation, but nothing has changed!" What he didn’t realize was that it wasn’t God’s responsibility, but his’ to effect a change in that situation by proclaiming the Word of faith. God’s responsibility is to send you His Word; His Word is the ingredient you require for change. Our opening text says, "...He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions."

God saves, heals, transforms and delivers through His Word, and His Word is dependable; you can apply it to every circumstance of life. No matter how seemingly hopeless your condition may look, proclaim the Word in faith, you’d have a miracle. Even if you wanted things to go from good to better or better to best, God’s Word will make it happen. Hebrews 4:12 (AMP) says, "For the Word that God speaks is alive and full of power [making it active, operative, energizing and effective]…."

The Word has inherent power; when you receive it into you and speak it forth in faith, it becomes the creative and effectual word, producing for you a harvest of what it says. The Word in your mouth is God talking, and it changes things. Create your victorious life with your faith-filled words.

Confession

I’m confident in the ability of God’s Word to prevail and produce in me the fruit of what it says; therefore I speak the Word with boldness today, knowing that my prosperity is by the Word. I’m like a tree by the streams, bearing fruits unto righteousness, because I live by the Word.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Isaiah 55:10-11

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Acts 27:1-26, Psalms 21-22

2 Year Reading Plan : Luke 10:1-9, Joshua 18

Change The Order

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
Change The Order · Saturday, July 20th ·

Pastor Chris

And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God (Romans 12:2).

From time to time, it’s important to review the way things are going with you and determine the areas in which you need to make changes. Many keep doing the same things, and expect a different result; that’s not going to work. You’d need to employ new ideas; bring in something new.

If you want a different result from what you’re experiencing right now, you have to review things and make the necessary changes. Begin with changing your way of thinking. Perhaps at work, you’ve been noted for not being so diligent, and now you want a change. First, you’d have to change your attitude, and approach your work with a new mind-set. Start practicing getting to work early to gain time, and then learn to sit down and finish your work within the stipulated time frame, and excellently too.

Learning to be ahead on your work, and finishing early, will give you time to review your work and ensure perfection. Do this consistently and soon enough, you’d begin to receive sterling recommendations and promotions from your bosses.

Maybe you’ve always desired to study the Word and pray more effectively; that won’t happen until you take the right and necessary steps. You can start by being more diligent with your study of the Rhapsody of Realities devotional, and meticulously going through the scripture references and the daily scripture reading. Also, get the book "How To Pray Effectively Volume 1" and study it from cover to cover (you can order a copy at www.christembassyonlinestore.org). It will help position you for a more vibrant and exciting study and prayer life.

Right now, list out areas where you need to make definite changes, and consciously write out the new steps you’re going to take to effect those changes, and then go for it! Make this part of your personal development project for the quarter, or the rest of the year, and watch your life grow for the best.

Prayer

Dear Father, I thank you for your Spirit who guides me to make the right and necessary changes required for my next level of success and promotion in life. Through your Word, wisdom is granted me to function excellently, and I live a fruitful and effective life in righteousness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Proverbs 22:29; Proverbs 10:4

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Acts 26:19-32, Psalms 19-20

2 Year Reading Plan : Luke 9:49-62, Joshua 16-17

Faith: Your Currency To Rule Your World!

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
Faith: Your Currency To Rule Your World! · Friday, July 19th ·

Pastor Chris

And what shall I more say? for the time would fail me to tell of Gedeon, and of Barak, and of Samson, and of Jephthae; of David also, and Samuel, and of the prophets: Who through faith subdued kingdoms, wrought righteousness, obtained promises, stopped the mouths of lions (Hebrews 11:32-33).

The Lord Jesus said if you have faith, as a grain of mustard seed, nothing shall be impossible to you (Matthew 17:20).Your faith is your currency to rule your world.

The Bible tells us of certain men and women who through faith dominated the world of their time (Hebrews 11:32-33). The eleventh chapter of the book of Hebrews gives us an insightful chronicle of the extraordinary accomplishments of some of these great men and women of faith: how they subdued kingdoms, and functioned in righteousness, standing their grounds in their convictions. Their faith serves as an example for us today. Their deeds were written for our inspiration and edification; letting us know we can do the same.

Let’s reflect on the attitude of one of these great heroes of faith—Joshua. By faith, he led the children of Israel to march round the intimidating walls of Jericho seven times, with the menacing walls coming down flat on the seventh count, as they gave the victory shout (read Joshua 6:16-20). You can live every day in victory and dominion through faith. The Bible admonishes us to be "...followers of them who through faith and patience inherit the promises" (Hebrews 6:12). Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David, the prophets of old, the Lord Jesus Christ, and the Apostles have all set examples of faith for us to emulate.

You can face and overcome whatever obstacle is before you by speaking forth words of faith. You can effect changes and do great things in your world today. You too can manifest righteousness and give life to the dead or hopeless situations. You can revive your business if it’s been grounded, or keep it growing from glory to glory. You can excel greatly in ministry, in your academics, career or profession and be a wonder to your world. Your faith is the currency; rule your world with it.

Confession

The Word of faith is in my heart and my mouth, and it prevails as I speak it forth. My life is the testimony of God’s grace and a harvest of blessings because I walk by faith in His Word. I’m more than a conqueror, and my faith is the victory that overcomes the world. Halleluiah!

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Hebrews 11:1,6; Matthew 17:20

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Acts 26:1-18, Psalms 17-18

2 Year Reading Plan : Luke 9:37-48 Joshua 15

TheBelieversLoveTheWord: RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

TheBelieversLoveTheWord: RHAPSODY OF REALITIES: RHAPSODY OF REALITIES. A Victory Parade · Thursday, July 18th · Pastor Anita Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to tri...

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
A Victory Parade · Thursday, July 18th ·

Pastor Anita

Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place (2 Corinthians 2:14).

As Christians, we have absolute victory over Satan and his cohorts. We belong in the Kingdom of God’s dear Son, who leads us in the triumphal excursions of life; it’s a continual victory parade.

Luke 1:69-71 tells us that God "…hath raised up an horn of salvation for us in the house of his servant David; as he spake by the mouth of his holy prophets, which have been since the world began: That we should be saved from our enemies, and from the hand of all that hate us." This came into effect with the coming of the Lord. Thus, whoever may hate you, or plan evil against you, will never be able to overpower you, for Christ is your victory. Concerning your adversaries, the Word says: "When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my flesh, they stumbled and fell" (Psalm 27:2).

You don’t have to pray against the wicked or your enemies from coming against you; they’re free to come out against you. However, their end has been predetermined: they’ll stumble and fall. Never live in fear, or respond to circumstances out of fear; you’re a victor in Christ Jesus. The Bible says, "And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it" (Colossians 2:15). When Jesus defeated Satan, and the principalities and powers of darkness, you were in Him. You were in Him when He paraded them in their despoiled state, wounded, broken, and rendered helpless.

Now in Luke 10:19, He says, "Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you." What a life He’s given us; a life of victory through the Word, and dominion by the Spirit.

Confession

I go forth today, in victory and dominion over Satan, the cohorts of darkness, and the circumstances of life. I experience the power and supernatural grace of God today, as I make manifest the savour of the knowledge of Christ, in every place, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: 1 Corinthians 15:55-57; 1 John 4:4

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Acts 25:13-27, Psalms 11-16

2 Year Reading Plan : Luke 9:28-36 Joshua 14

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
Simply Act On His Word… · Wednesday, July 17th ·

Pastor Chris

But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves (James 1:22).

Matthew 14 gives us an account of how, on a certain evening, the disciples got into a ship to cross to the other side of the Sea of Galilee, ahead of Jesus. During their voyage, they were startled to see a man walking towards them on the water, and cried out in fear. Jesus was that man, and He immediately assuaged their fears, saying, "…Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid" (Matthew 14:27). Then, Peter answering, said, "…Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water" (Matthew 14:28); and the Master said to him, "Come" (Matthew 14:29).

Peter then stepped out of the ship and walked on the water to meet Jesus. When the Master said, "Come," any of the disciples could have stepped out with Peter into the water; but only Peter did. Imagine how much more glorious and inspiring it would have been to read that the entire disciples walked on water!

It’s like what happens even today with many in the Church. When the Word is given, maybe a word on healing, finances or on any other subject, only those who personalize the Word, and take corresponding action, will have it produce results in their lives. It might be a simple "get up," "walk," "come," or an instruction to give an offering: act on it immediately. Don’t wait for a thunderous voice or a spectacular sound from heaven; simply act on the Word. It may not come in a spectacular way, but it is always supernatural, nonetheless.

In 1 Kings 19, when Elijah needed to hear from God, all the seemingly "spectacular" signs didn’t have the presence of God, until the still small voice, that said "…What doest thou here, Elijah?" (1 Kings 19:13). God’s Word, instructions, leading, and guidance to you are supernatural; they’ll produce the desired results when acted upon.

To continually experience the glory of God and the power of the Spirit, you’d have to always respond in faith to His Word and the promptings of the Spirit.

Prayer

Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for training my spirit to apprehend the realities of the Kingdom and respond to the instructions of the Holy Spirit to me, as I learn and walk in the light of your Word, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: James 1:22-25

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Acts 25:1-12, Psalms 7-10

2 Year Reading Plan : Luke 9:18-27, Joshua 13

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
Look Inwards For Creative Ideas! · Monday, July 15th ·

Pastor Anita

But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us (2 Corinthians 4:7).

As a child of God, the Bible says whatsoever you do, shall prosper: "And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper" (Psalm 1:3). Never be idle or jobless; you must find something you’re good at; something that’s good for God and good for people, and do it. Bless the world with the work of your hands. Look to the Holy Spirit in you for ideas of excellence. Remember, success isn’t all about money; if you have the right ideas, and discipline yourself in the direction of your ideas, money will come to you.

So come up with great ideas that’ll foster the progress and development of your environment, and the world of your time. One of the primary requirements for success is looking out for a human need, and then reaching out to meet it. How did Joseph, a prisoner, become the Prime minister of Egypt? He did something. He used his gift to serve others and God promoted him.

Some people believe the reason they’re suffering or poor is because of the kind of work they do. That’s not true! The problem isn’t the kind of work they do; rather it’s in their minds. Your mind is what determines what you become, for as a man thinks in his heart, so is he (Proverbs 23:7).

Look inwards, and live from inside out. Put your creative juices to work. Initiate prosperity and victory from within you, for they’re inherent in your spirit. God has deposited in your spirit everything you require for a successful life. Search yourself; dig deep within you and discover the treasure and talents you have. Put them to work, and the anointing of the Lord will cause them to produce and multiply.

Confession I bring forth good things today from within me, because I have an excellent mind; I have insight into mysteries and secrets and bring forth creative ideas because Christ has been made unto me wisdom. I initiate success, victory and prosperity from within, in the Name of Jesus.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Luke 6:45; Proverbs 4:23

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Acts 23:12-35, Job 40-42

2 Year Reading Plan : Luke 9:1-9, Joshua 11

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

 

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
Worship The Lord With Singing! · Sunday, July 14th ·

Pastor Chris

But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him (John 4:23).

Every time you have the opportunity to worship the Lord, do it wholeheartedly in love. As new creations, we’re the true circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh (Philippians 3:3). We’re the true worshippers that the Lord seeks. When you learn to worship the Lord passionately, at all times, irrespective and independent of circumstances, you enhance the ministry of the Holy Spirit in your life. You’d experience rich fellowship, His supernatural guidance, love and grace in a greater measure.

Besides the fact that worship is a blessing to you, in that it helps to tune your spiritual attention to God’s frequency, you give the Lord what He deserves when you worship Him. One of the ways you express yourself to the Lord in worship is through singing. The Holy Spirit loves singing. Ephesians 5:19 says, "Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord." Matthew 26:30 tells us how Jesus and His disciples sang a hymn: "And when they had sung an hymn, they went out into the mount of Olives." Learn to sing to the Lord in worship.

Worship isn’t for those with the best and most sonorous voices. We don’t sing to the Lord because we’re good singers; we sing to worship Him. So, it makes no difference what your voice sounds like: learn to worship the Lord with singing. The choristers and worship leaders in Church may inspire you to worship, or help you learn the songs, but their worship and their singing will never suffice for your personal worship of the Lord.

When the disciple said to the Master, "Teach us to pray," Jesus gave them a format of prayer; He said to them, "After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name" (Matthew 6:9). Observe that He started with worship. Worshipping the Lord is a most important aspect of our ministry to Him; so, learn to worship Him with singing.

Prayer Dear Lord, I worship you today, for your love, kindness, grace and tender mercies! You’re so glorious and worthy to be praised: your name is glorified forever, in all the earth, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: Philippians 3:3 (AMP); Hebrews 13:15

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Acts 22:22-23:1-11, Job 36-39

2 Year Reading Plan : Luke 8:40-56, Joshua 10

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES.
The Humanity Of Jesus
· Saturday, July 13th ·
Pastor Chris

For verily he took not on him the nature of angels; but he took on him the seed of Abraham (Hebrews 2:16).

When the Lord Jesus came to this world, He didn’t come in the form of angelic beings; rather, He came as the seed of Abraham. He was born of a woman, and lived as a man, even though He was the Son of God. It was in His humanity that He was tempted, obeyed God, was crucified and died in our place.

Isaiah 53:5 says, "But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed." When He was wounded, He felt the pain and cried out, the way you and I probably would have; but He didn’t give up. The Bible says He endured the Cross and despised the shame (Hebrews 12:2).

It was in His humanity that He descended into hell, in which also He engaged Satan in that awful combat in hell, and defeated him and all the cohorts of darkness. He did it all as a man: "And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it" (Colossians 2:15). He came out of the grave as a man, and ascended into heaven as a man. He completely identified with us as a man: "Wherefore in all things it behoved him to be made like unto his brethren…" (Hebrews 2:17).

Hebrews 4:15 says, "For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin." All that Jesus did as a man,
He did for us. As His suffering and death were for us, so His obedience, resurrection and placement in the heavens were for us as well. His victory is ours; His glory is ours. He was indeed the Son of man as He was the Son of God. Let us live to His glory.

Prayer Dear Father, I rejoice for all that you’ve done for me in Christ Jesus. More than ever, I’m inspired to do your will and fulfil my ministry in you without reproach. I thank you for opening my understanding to my abilities in Christ, and the things I can accomplish through the power of the Spirit working in me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

f u r t h e r s t u d y: 1 Timothy 2:5-6; Acts 2:22

Daily Scripture Reading

1 Year Reading Plan : Acts 21:37-22:1-21, Job 32-35

2 Year Reading Plan : Luke 8:26-39, Joshua 9