YOUR DAY OF REST

I can tell that some of you reading this have not been at rest, you've had a lot of issues to deal with lately; issues at work, at home, in school, and personal issues. You have been carrying huge burdens that have weighed you down; you are really stressed, very tired, and probably depressed. Cheer up, brothers and sisters, today is your day of rest!

Jesus gives rest. Isaiah 14:3 says, "When that day comes, the LORD will give you relief from your pain and suffering, from the hard slavery you were forced to do." Amen. That day that you've been praying for is today! Today is your day of rest. Isaiah 32:18 says you will live in peaceful dwelling places, in secure homes, and in undisturbed places of rest. Glory to God!

God gives His beloved rest. God loved Solomon, and He gave him rest. Solomon said, "The Lord my God has given me peace on every side; I have no enemies, and all is well." 1 Kings 5:4. That shall be your portion today and always in Jesus' name. Peace on every side - on your job, in your home, in your business, etc. And all shall be well with you - financially, maritally, and otherwise. Amen.

Here's what you should do now: give God thanks and start living by faith. Stop complaining, stop walking around with a long face, stop being sad and moody; this is the day that the Lord God has made! Rejoice and be glad in it. Believe me, God has given you rest. Shalom.

ENJOYMENT GALORE

The Scripture says, "And in that day thou shalt say, O Lord, I will praise thee: though thou wast angry with me, thine anger is turned away, and thou comfortedst me. Behold God is my salvation; I will trust, and not be afraid: for the Lord Jehovah is my strength and my song; he also is become my salvation. Therefore with joy shall ye draw water out of the wells of salvation. And in that day shall ye say, Praise the Lord, call upon his name, declare his doings among the people, make mention that his name is exalted. Sing unto the Lord; for he hath done excellent things: this is known in all the earth." Isaiah 12:1-5.

Imagine a life of endless testimonies: that's the life we should be living. Even if I know nothing else, this I know, that God is so good! The Scripture above says that with joy we will draw water from the wells of salvation. What it means is that we are meant to always be happy in God, and that our joy is a result of the excellent and wonderful things God does for us. Hallelujah! We should be as women, singing praises and happy on their way to get water from the stream! Endless joy; enjoyment galore!

Certain things may happen in life that will make you sad; I won't tell you that there will be no challenges or that you may never have to weep: things happen for several reasons: but I will tell you, that though weeping may endure for the night, joy will surely come in the morning! You know what, when you have the right perspective, you can be happy even in the midst of challenges and trying times! Like James said, "Count it all joy when you fall into diverse temptations." James 1:2.

I pray for you today, that you will always see the goodness of God, that your mouth will always be filled with laughter, and that your joy will never end! May you never cease to have testimonies of what God has done for you, and may you experience the wonders of God all the days of your life! Amen.

WHAT IS YOUR CONTRIBUTION TO THE FURTHERANCE OF THE GOSPEL?

The earth is being filled with the word of God in fulfilment of prophecy. Isaiah 11:9 says the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the Lord as the waters cover the sea. The Early Church did a lot to spread the gospel in their time, and they accomplished so much; Acts 19:20 says the word of the Lord grew mightily and prevailed.

It has been said that there are two kinds of men: the actors and the spectators. While some are doing so much to promote the gospel in obedience to the Great Commission, others are simply doing nothing. Nobody should be a spectator in this matter. All hands must be on deck. Apostle Paul was so involved that whether he was in chains or free, he was always engaged in spreading the gospel.

With social media, anyone can preach the gospel free of charge! Apart from social media, actively engage in other areas: preach to people around you, join your church for evangelism, pray for the lost, for evangelists and missionaries, pray for open doors and open hearts, pray against the activities of Satan, support the gospel financially and materially: just make sure you do something all the time.

Paul wrote to the Philippians, "Whether I come to see you, or else be absent, I may hear odd your affairs, that years stand fast in one spirit, with one mind striving together for the faith of the gospel." Philippians 1:27. Refuse to be the odd man out. Refuse to be quiet. Make a difference in the lives of others! Be a soul winner. Life without Jesus is miserable: why not partner with God to save souls.

IF THE SPIRIT BE IN YOU

In Christ, we have all we ever need to live a glorious and victorious life here on earth. God has given us all we need to succeed and do well wherever we are and at all times. If you have received the Holy Spirit, men should quickly tell that there is a difference in you. You should no longer be last in class, you should no longer be tail, people should come to you for answers and solutions, and you should have no problem doing the will of God.

Isaiah 11:2 says, "The LORD's Spirit will rest upon him, a spirit of wisdom and understanding, a spirit of planning and strength, a spirit of knowledge and fear of the LORD." You see why it is impossible for you to be foolish and stupid? No, you just can't be, if you have received the Holy Spirit.

Receiving the Holy Spirit doesn't end at speaking in tongues. Daniel and his friends were said to be ten times better than their peers in all areas! While Stephen spoke, it is recorded in Acts 6:10 that his accusers were not able to resist the intelligence and the wisdom and the inspiration of the Spirit with which and by whom he spoke!

Refuse to be ordinary and average. Learn to fellowship with the Holy Spirit. Do not ignore Him. He was given to make us all that God desires us to be. You were born again to win! You were born again to be a champion! You were born again to succeed! You were born again to show forth the praises of God Who brought you out of darkness into His marvellous light! Hallelujah!

ANOINTED WITH THE SPIRIT

Acts 10:38 says, "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him." Note that Jesus was anointed with the Holy Spirit. The anointing I am talking about therefore, is the presence of the Holy Spirit upon a man.

Jesus said, "But you shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost has come upon you." Acts 1:8. In other words, the presence of the Holy Spirit fills a man with the power of God. Understand that God is the source of true power and that He still empowers people today by His Spirit for ministry. Surely, there are people with other kinds of power and abilities, but all it is said, Jesus power is super power! Glory to God.

So, if you have received the Holy Spirit, you have actually received power. Now, there is a purpose for the anointing; God doesn't just empower for no reason; He endued us with power so that we might do His will. Jesus said, "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, for he has anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he has sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, to preach the acceptable year of the Lord." Luke 4:18-19.

Have you been faithful with the anointing? Some people think that the anointing is only meant for getting things for themselves and for improving their lives and finances; but like Jesus, we must go about doing good with the anointing of the Spirit. The best thing you can do for a man is to preach the gospel of salvation to him. If a man gets born again, he becomes a joint-heir with Christ and can enjoy every other thing of the kingdom. Shalom.

RECEIVE HIS WORD

When God wants to save a man, He sends him a word; also, when He wants to deliver, heal or accomplish a thing, He sends His word to accomplish that purpose. Psalm 107:20 says, “He sent forth his word and healed them; he rescued them from the grave.” When God speaks, things happen because it is full of power. Psalm 29:4-9 says, “The voice of the Lord is powerful; the voice of the Lord is majestic. The voice of the Lord breaks the cedars; the Lord breaks in pieces the cedars of Lebanon. He makes Lebanon leap like a calf, Sirion like a young wild ox. The voice of the Lord strikes with flashes of lightning. The voice of the Lord shakes the desert; the Lord shakes the Desert of Kadesh. The voice of the Lord twists the oaks and strips the forests bare.”

The good thing about the word is that it can meet you wherever you are; there is no where it cannot enter; there is no distance it cannot cover; there is no height it cannot go over; no thickness it cannot penetrate; and there is no barrier that can stop it. The word of the Lord travels faster than light and sound; it is never late. Running helter skelter in search of solutions is not the answer to your problems; panicking and worrying won’t solve your problems either; all you need is faith to receive His word wherever you are.

The Centurion said to Jesus, “Just say the word and my servant will be healed.” Matthew 8:8. And all Jesus said was, “Go! Let it be done just as you believed it would.” Jesus did not rebuke the devil or command the sickness to go, He simply asked the man to go back home. In other words, the word may not come as you expect it to; your problem doesn't have to be mentioned specifically before you receive it; your name doesn't have to be mentioned; neither does your situation have to be described: all you need is faith to receive the word that is said.

Be healed in the name of Jesus! Receive a miracle for the settlement of your debts in the name of Jesus! Be set free from every form of oppression in the name of Jesus! Jesus makes you free, and you are free indeed! May the doors of abundance be opened unto you, and may you grow continually in wisdom and in favour. Let it be done as you have believed! Amen.

BE ENCOURAGED

I can never commit suicide! You want to know why? The first reason is because I live for something great and also because I have come to understand how valuable I am to God. I understand how much God loves me, and that I am here on earth for His glory. Therefore, whatever happens to me or by me is for the ultimate glory of God. Isaiah said, “Behold, I and the children whom the LORD has given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwells in mount Zion.” Isaiah 8:18.

Let me tell you something very important: you are not an insignificant speck in the world. Understand that God wants to do something amazing with you in order to get the attention of unbelievers! When you got saved, God made you a sign of His wondrous love for man. In other words, God wants the world to know how much He loves them by observing your life. Listen to me; God is going to bless you, increase you and elevate you in this world!

You should read about Job in Job 29! He was a wonder in his generation. He said, “When I spoke, everyone listened; they hung on my every word.” He said, “Men and women listened when I spoke, hung expectantly on my every word. After I spoke, they’d be quiet, taking it all in. They welcomed my counsel like spring rain, drinking it all in. When I smiled at them, they could hardly believe it; their faces lit up, their troubles took wing! I was their leader, establishing the mood and setting the pace by which they lived. Where I led, they followed.” Wow!

Be encouraged. Maybe things are tough for you right now, and you are wondering what God is up to; cheer up, God is up to something wonderful! Remember, there is an end, and that end is peace! All shall be well with you! Wherever you are right now is not your final destination; God is not through with you yet! God will not stop until He completes His work, until He makes you the pride of your family and your community! Amen.

Thus says the Lord to you, “And the nations shall see your righteousness and vindication, and all kings shall behold your salvation and glory; and you shall be called by a new name which the mouth of the Lord shall name. You shall also be [so beautiful and prosperous as to be thought of as] a crown of glory and honor in the hand of the Lord, and a royal diadem [exceedingly beautiful] in the hand of your God. You shall no more be termed Forsaken, nor shall your land be called Desolate any more. But you shall be called Hephzibah [My delight is in her], and your land be called Beulah [married]; for the Lord delights in you, and your land shall be married [owned and protected by the Lord].” Isaiah 62:2-4. Hallelujah!

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GOD IS WITH YOU

Mature Christians live by knowledge and not feelings. Feelings are limited and are sometimes misleading. And that something cannot be felt doesn't imply that it is unreal.  One of the things you may not always feel is the presence of God. As a matter of fact, there are many times you will feel alone, as though God has abandoned or forsaken you: at such times, don’t give in to your feelings else you would become depressed, discouraged and disappointed. If you are born again and live a life of holiness and obedience, God is always with you.

The presence of the Lord brings favour, prosperity, victory, and strength. God said to Joshua, “No one will be able to stand against you all the days of your life. As I was with Moses, so I will be with you; I will never leave you nor forsake you.” Joshua 1:5. Understand that location is not a man’s greatest problem; who is with him there is what matters most. God granted Joseph favour everywhere he was, and continued to uplift him until he became great and prosperous in a strange land. While men tried to keep him under, God used their evil plans to promote him above all his enemies.

Quit living a life or fear and anxiety. Quit worrying about your future, about your business, your job, your investments, your family, your protection, or anything else: there are people who even worry about the unknown. You have nothing to fear except losing the presence of God. No wonder David prayed, “Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me.” Psalm 51:11. David knew that all was well with him as long as God was with him.

Jesus said He is with us always, even unto the end of the world. He told us that the Holy Spirit would be with us forever. Even when you are walking through the valley of the shadow of death, God is with you. Here’s God’s promise: “When you go through deep waters, I will be with you. When you go through rivers of difficulty, you will not drown. When you walk through the fire of oppression, you will not be burned up; the flames will not consume you.” Isaiah 43:2. Amen.

JEHOVAH HAS THE FINAL SAY

There’s a song we sing, “Who has the final say? Jehovah has the final say. Jehovah turn my life around (2x), He makes a way where there is no way, Jehovah has the final say.” I came today to remind you that Jehovah has the final say regarding everything that concerns you. Jehovah has the final say about your health, about your finances, about your life, about your business and about your existence! No man or government has the final say; the doctor doesn't have the final say, the bank doesn't have the final say, the lawyer doesn't have the final say; God has the final say! Hallelujah!

In life there are powerful people who are capable of making decrees and altering the lives and destinies of people; Ecclesiastes 8:4 says that a king’s command is backed by great power, and that no one can resist or question it. Having said that, I should remind you that there is One called the King of kings! The King of Kings is Jehovah, and the Bible says, in His hand, the hearts of other kings are, and that like watercourses, He directs it wherever He pleases (Proverbs 21:1)! Wow!

Listen to me: nobody has the power to destroy you! And nobody can pull you down! They may threaten you and do all manner of things against you; FEAR NOT! Lamentations 3:37 says, “Who can speak and have it happen if the Lord has not decreed it?” Don’t worry yourself one bit; don’t lose sleep because of what they are planning to do against you! “Thus saith the Lord GOD, It shall not stand, neither shall it come to pass.” Isaiah 7:7. Hallelujah!

You are a well guarded man or woman! Maybe you can’t see, but you are surrounded with a host of angels! Jehovah said we are the apple of His eyes! I feel so sorry for the one that dares you! Listen, God is for you and nothing can succeed against you! Your Redeemer is strong and mighty to save and deliver, and He will always deliver you. He will make a way where there seems to be none; and He will turn every curse into a blessing. I agree with you today: if there’s any unpleasant pronouncement you wish to change, it is changed in the name of Jesus! Amen. Praise the Lord!

STOP SITTING IDLY BY

You find idle labourers in certain places: they sit idly by waiting for people to come and hire them. If no one comes, they do nothing, and of course, they do not get paid. Jesus told a parable of a man who went out early to hire labourers; he went out in the morning, in the third, sixth and ninth hours of the day to hire more of the idle labourers. Up to the eleventh hour, some were still idle, and he asked, “Why stand ye here all the day idle? They say unto him, Because no man hath hired us. He saith unto them, Go ye also into the vineyard; and whatsoever is right, that shall ye receive.” Matthew 20:1-7.

Many Christians today are like those idle labourers; it’s not that they are unwilling to work, all their lives, they have been waiting for God to call them. They have been waiting to hear God say, “Whom shall I send, and who will go for us?” so that they can say, “Here am I; send me.” As good as it sounds; we must understand that it is not the will of God for us to be idle. Jesus said that the harvest is plenty, but the labourers are few. More than ever before, there’s a great need for labourers in the field, and believers must understand that they have already been sent by God.

Jesus said, “As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.” John 20:21. He also said, “Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” Matthew 28:19. Now, it is wrong for anyone to think that the mandate wasn't for him or her and that Jesus was referring to the Apostles: that’s far from the truth because 2 Corinthians 5:18&19 says He gave us the ministry of reconciliation and the word of reconciliation. You don’t have to be like Billy Graham to work for God, all God wants is for you to start reaching out to those around you and to use whatever gifts and talents that He has given to you for His glory.

Stop sitting idly by, waiting to hear an audible voice from God, or to receive some vision of what you should do: stop waiting to be hired when you have already been hired! Immediately Paul was saved, he asked, “What would you have me do?” Meanwhile many who have been saved for years are yet to start doing something for God. Come on! Decide today that you will no longer be idle; get busy working for your Lord. Shalom.

BE A MAN OF KNOWLEDGE

This is rightly called the information age. There’s so much knowledge in our world today than there has ever been before. In this age, the difference between two men is knowledge. Take this seriously: the difference between the successful and the unsuccessful is knowledge; the difference between the rich and poor is knowledge; the difference between the sick and the healthy is knowledge; the difference between one who prays and the one who doesn't is knowledge; and the difference between a happy couple and an unhappy one is knowledge. Men fail as a result of something they do not know! How about grace? How does grace come? Through faith; and how does faith come? By hearing – knowledge! God said, “My people go into exile for lack of knowledge (Isaiah 5:13), and He also said people perish or are destroyed for lack of knowledge (Hosea 4:6). Ignorant people blame situations and circumstances for their problems, but wise people seek to know something that they did not know. 1 Chronicles 12:32 ISV says the men of Issachar “kept up-to-date in their understanding of the times and knew what Israel should do.” If you truly want to do well in life, be a man or woman of knowledge. Understand that Jesus died for everybody; however, it is does who have had a revelation of what He did for they that are enjoying the benefits of His death and resurrection! No wonder Apostle Peter said we should grow in knowledge (2 Peter 3:18). The Holy Spirit was given so that we would be taught; please allow yourself to be taught! You can be free today from anything unpleasant; and I am asking God to send you a revelation of what you need to do to be made free. Refuse to be ignorant; like the men of Issachar, always update yourself. Paul said he was not ignorant of Satan’s devices; the longer you remain ignorant, the longer you remain a prey. But God forbid it! I pray for you, that God will flood your heart with divine insights and also grant you the grace to receive them. Amen. Follow @PastorChinae

SHELTER FROM THE STORMS

Isaiah 4:6 says, “And there shall be a tabernacle for a shadow in the daytime from the heat, and for a place of refuge, and for a covert from storm and from rain.” Hallelujah! Isn't God good? It’s so good to know that in Him, we can be protected from the heat, the storms and the rains of life. Really, Christianity is an invitation to rest! In Christ, we are not only insured, we are protected. That’s what it really means to be set apart from the world! We have been set apart from the troubles and pains of the world. When there are crises in the world; be it financial, physical or otherwise, we shouldn't be terrified by them; when there is a flu or epidemic, we can be comforted by the fact that we are safe in Christ. Psalm 27:5 NLT says, “For he will conceal me there when troubles come; he will hide me in his sanctuary. He will place me out of reach on a high rock.” Amen! After reading the above, someone might be thinking within himself, “Why then do bad things happen to Christians?” Here’s my quick response: understand that things will not happen to you because it is written in the Bible; they will happen because you believe them.” Jesus always said, “Be it unto you according to your faith.” You've got to be persuaded about what God says, and your faith must stand on the knowledge of Who God is; His power, His grace, His wisdom and on His love for you. In life there will always be storms, but I pray for you reading this today in the name of Jesus, that henceforth, you will be shielded from every storm of life, may God deliver you from death, from the tsunamis and hurricanes of life where you live and work; when all men around you say that there is a casting down, may your mouth be filled with songs of deliverance. When the enemy comes like a flood to attack you and all that are yours, may the Spirit of the Lord raise a standard against him. And if you have just experienced any storm, may God restore all that was lost, and may it shine on you again. Amen. Follow @PastorChinae

REASSURANCE FOR THE RIGHTEOUS

After preaching one morning, a friend said to me, “Am grateful to God for my salvation but sometimes I wonder why those that are not saved enjoy life more than those that are saved.” I know some of us may have had similar thoughts: well, I will not attempt to give you all the answers today, but I have a good word for you! Isaiah 3:10 MSG says, “Reassure the righteous that their good living will pay off.” Hallelujah! David said, “Wait on the LORD, and keep his way, and he shall exalt thee to inherit the land: when the wicked are cut off, thou shalt see it. I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found. Mark the perfect man, and behold the upright: for the end of that man is peace.” Psalm 37:34-37. I can’t tell how you are right now, but I can tell what your end will be: it shall be peace! Psalm 128 says, “Blessed is every one that fears the LORD; that walks in his ways. For you shall eat the labour of your hands: happy shall you be, and it shall be well with you. Your wife shall be as a fruitful vine by the sides of your house: your children like olive plants round about your table. Behold, that thus shall the man be blessed that fears the LORD. The LORD shall bless you out of Zion: and you shall see the good of Jerusalem all the days of your life. Yea, you shall see thy children's children, and peace upon Israel.” Amen. So, cheer up, brothers and sisters; though things be tough and hard now, in due time, it shall be well with you. Please be informed that your joy is coming! It cannot be night all day; your morning is coming! God remains a rewarder of all them that diligently seek Him. May God bless and prosper you; may His face shine upon you. May God give you peace and joy; and may your cup overflow with His blessings! Shalom.

WALKING IN THE LIGHT

Isaiah 2:5 says, “O house of Jacob, come ye, and let us walk in the light of the LORD.” Light means a number of things: the word of God (Psalm 119:105), the paths of God (Isaiah 2:3), and it also means love. Generally speaking, light is anything that proceeds from God, because God is light. James 1:17 calls Him the Father of lights, and 1 John 1:5 says, “God is light, and in him is no darkness at all.” Today, we are considering light as love. First, you must understand that you cannot walk in the light without first being made light. In other words, to walk in the light you must first become light. That should be easy to understand. Ephesians 5:8 says, “For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light.” We were born again by the word of God; that’s how we became light. To walk in the light you must first be born again. If you are not born again, I urge you to immediately receive Jesus into your heart. Repent of your sins, believe that God raised Him from the dead, and confess Him as Lord of your life. Amen. John wrote, “The one who says he abides in Him ought himself to walk in the same manner as He walked.” 1 John 2:6 NASB. How did Christ walk? He walked in love. Ephesians 5:1-2 says, “Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” And 1 John 2:9&10 says, “The one who says he is in the Light and yet hates his brother is in the darkness until now. The one who loves his brother abides in the Light and there is no cause for stumbling in him.” Today, God is asking us to walk in love towards fellow men and towards Him. The hatred, abuse, malice, jealousy, envy, gossiping, backbiting, jesting, manipulation, injustice, maltreatment, etc, has got to stop. Walk in love – help the needy, support the weak, speak kindly to others and about others, forgive, endure, tolerate and understand. Cheers. Follow @PastorChinae

UNLOCKING THE DOORS OF BLESSINGS

1 Peter 3:9 says we were called to inherit or obtain a blessing. As you may know, blessing is to confer prosperity or happiness upon a person, it refers to favour, it comes with approval and it protects. To bless means to do or give something of value to another. Proverbs 10:22 says that the blessing of the Lord makes rich and that He, God, adds no sorrow or trouble with it. So, how many of us Christians are truly enjoying the blessing of God? What we have are Christians deep in debt, sick Christians, weak Christians, and troubled Christians. How many of us are truly different from the rest of the world? But one thing is certain – God cannot lie, and His word is forever yea and amen. God does bless His children: but we must learn how to receive His blessings. Jesus was teaching one day, and a woman in the crowd screamed, “Blessed is the mother who gave you birth and nursed you.” Jesus immediately replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.” In those few words are the secrets or keys to unlocking the doors of divine blessing: it is as simple as it sounds – obey the word of God! And that’s exactly what Isaiah 1:19 says, “If you consent and obey, you will eat the best of the land.” James 1:25 NASB says, “But one who looks intently at the perfect law, the law of liberty, and abides by it, not having become a forgetful hearer but an effectual doer, this man will be blessed in what he does.” The question then is, Are you an effectual doer of the word? Note that doing some of what God says and ignoring the others won’t qualify you for His blessings. I urge you today to be an effectual doer of the word wherever you are; as the world becomes more and more rebellious to God and His ways, refuse to be one of those who embraces the things that God detests. May God grant you the grace to do all His will and greatly bless you for it. Amen. Follow @PastorChinae

UNDESIRABLE WORSHIP

God loves to receive our praises and worship; He is pleased when we give Him offerings, when we fast and pray, and do other acts of worship: but be informed that there are times when He is not pleased with any of such. There are Christians today who think they can actually bribe God; they live as they please, and do whatever they want, contrary to God’s will, and then they worship, give offerings, tithes and other sacrifices, thinking God will be appeased by that. No! At such times worship from such a person is unacceptable and undesirable to God. The Israelites were once like that. Here’s how God described them: “Ah sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity, a seed of evildoers, children that are corrupters: they have forsaken the LORD, they have provoked the Holy One of Israel unto anger, they are gone away backward.” Isaiah 1:4. And the Lord asked, “To what purpose is the multitude of your sacrifices unto me? Bring no more vain oblations; incense is an abomination unto me... And when ye spread forth your hands, I will hide mine eyes from you; yea, when ye make many prayers, I will not hear: your hands are full of blood.” Then He said to them, “Wash ye, make you clean; put away the evil of your doings from before mine eyes; cease to do evil; learn to do well; seek judgment, relieve the oppressed, judge the fatherless, plead for the widow.” Isaiah 1:11-17. This is not a message to get you jumping, shouting and clapping; you know yourself more than anyone else, and you can tell if you are like the Israelites were; living in sin and in disobedience to God, and yet pretending that it is well with you and God. This is a call to repentance. Understand that God doesn't delight in offerings and in other things more than He does in us living in love and in holiness. Everything we do in this faith must be done on the foundation of love and holiness; else we would be wasting our time and resources. If you are in such state, then here’s God’s word to you today, “Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool.” Isaiah 1:18. 1 John 1:9 says, “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness.” Shalom. Follow @PastorChinae

PEACE BY ALL MEANS

Peace is defined in the Miriam Webster’s dictionary as, “a state of tranquillity or quiet.” It also defines it as “freedom from disquieting or oppressive thoughts or emotions” and as “harmony in personal relations.” You see, peace is not only without; it has to do with you as well, your body, soul and spirit. If there’s anything at all that makes you confused or worried, or that makes you cry; if there’s anything that gives you sleepless nights; maybe it’s something that’s got to do with your job, business, family, or your health, you need the peace of God. 2 Thessalonians 3:16 says, “Now the Lord of peace himself give you peace always by all means.” The will of God for you is to have peace always: always, and not sometimes. God’s will is for everything to be okay with you. He wants you in perfect peace. Yes; Jeremiah 29:11 says that His thoughts for us are thoughts of peace, and not of evil. That’s why He is called the God of peace! All He ever desires is our peace. Satan is the author of all confusion and evil. He comes to steal, kill and destroy. Satan hates it when all is well with you: but he is a loser! Jesus defeated him, and he is forever a defeated foe. I have a good word for you today: Romans 16:20 says, “And the God of peace shall bruise Satan under your feet shortly.” Oh my God! Bruise is a mild word, and shortly seems too far! Here’s what GOD’S WORD Translation says, “The God of peace will quickly crush Satan under your feet.” Hallelujah! Can I prophesy to you? Today shall be the last day of your worries! I command every open door of trouble in your life to be shut, in the name of Jesus! I speak the peace of God into your home, into your relationship, on your business, on your job, into your body, soul and spirit, in the name of Jesus! Peace be on you! in Jesus’ awesome name. Amen. Rejoice! Follow @PastorChinae

DO SOMETHING

2 Thessalonians 3:10 says that if any would not work, neither should he eat. Note the phrase, “would not”. Those who would not work even when they have an opportunity to work are lazy people. The Bible warns us against laziness; and we are told that every lazy person is to be ashamed of him or herself. Even when a lazy man has a job or business, he would soon lose it because of his attitude to work. I’m aware that there are some who want to work but who have got no jobs. Well, not having a job isn't a licence to be idle! A job is working for salary or wages; but are you aware that you can work for free? Yes, and I mean it. I've done voluntary work before! All I got was food at work! Funny; right? But it’s a good attitude to work, if you ask me. I've even read books where you are encouraged to do voluntary work even when you can be paid. You may say that “things are hard”, but who’s your source – God or your salary? Again, you must understand that you can do something with the gifts and talents that God gave you. Many musicians and actors began doing what they do today because they didn't find jobs. Rather than stay jobless, they decided to use their talents and today they are called celebrities. Why not learn a skill or trade? Anyone can trade something! As a student I made handmade cards which I sold, as well as other little jobs. Learn to bake, you can start a small farm, do network marketing, sell things for commissions, and start a lesson for those who seek admission (there are many schools that started like that). The small thing you start today can become a great organisation tomorrow! Don’t leave yourself at the mercy of the government; God can bless you with or without a job! But you must be willing to start something that He can bless. According to the Scriptures, there is profit in all labour. I pray for you, that God will give you ideas of what to do, and that He will bless the works of your hands. Amen. Follow @PastorChinae

THE WONDERFUL LOVE OF CHRIST

I started to write a book on the love of God some years ago and I haven’t had time to complete it; other things keep coming up: I hope I can finish it in the nearest future. The love of God is amazing, especially His love for man. If I’m to describe it in a word, I’ll simply say that it is wonderful! It is incomprehensible – the kind of love that made Him die for us, the kind of love that cannot end, the kind of love that makes Him willing to give us all we’ll ever need, and the kind of love that makes Him believe about us despite our shortcomings and many sins! I can only attempt to talk about the love of Christ; the truth is that it is better experienced. It is so great that we can never tell it all. Human vocabulary is insufficient to describe God’s awesome love! I can only pray for you according to 2 Thessalonians 3:5 (NLT), that the Lord “May lead your hearts into a full understanding and expression of the love of God.” Ephesians 3:18 and 19 (NIV) says that we “may have power, together with all the Lord’s holy people, to grasp how wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ, and to know this love that surpasses knowledge—that you may be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God.” Charles H. Gabriel published his song titled My Savior’s Love in 1905. The first verse says, “I stand amazed in the presence of Jesus the Nazarene, and wonder how He could love me, a sinner, condemned, unclean.” If only sinners knew how much God loved them! If Atheists knew how much God loves them! If only man knew that God is not against him but for him! Dear brethren, God loves us so much! And His love should only draw us closer to Him and give us boldness to stand in His presence reciprocating His love with our worship and praise. God’s love is greater than Satan’s hate! Fear nothing, for your Lover is strong, mighty and wealthy! Hallelujah! Follow @PastorChinae

CAN YOU BE TRUSTED?

There are men and women in the history of the world who God trusted. They were, and are as human as you and I, yet they managed to earn the trust of Almighty God. Abraham and Job were one of those people. God said of Abraham, “For I know him, that he will command his children and his household after him, and they shall keep the way of the LORD, to do justice and judgment.” Genesis 18:19. One day, in heaven, the sons of God presented themselves before the LORD, and Satan attended that meeting also. “And the LORD said to Satan, ‘Have you considered my servant Job, that there is none like him on the earth, a blameless and upright man, who fears God and turns away from evil?’” Job 1:8 ESV. Notice how much God trust Job; to the extent that He bragged with him in heaven! The questions I’m asking you today are: Can you be trusted to do the right things all the time even when no one is looking at you? Can you be trusted to be where God wants you to be at any given time? Parents, can God trust you to raise godly children? Leaders, can God trust you to always speak the truth and lead in the right way? Businessmen and women, can God trust you to deal fairly with others? Can God trust you to represent Christ wherever you are and in any situation? Can you be trusted to share the gospel with perishing souls around you? Can you be trusted to support a righteous cause? Can you ever be trusted? Paul said the following about the Thessalonians, “But we you in Our Lord, that whatever we command you, you do and you will do.” 2 Thessalonians 3:4, Aramaic Bible in Plain English. Be a trustworthy person that so that your husband or wife, pastor, friend, employer or employee, etc, can trust you. Develop you to be someone people can have confidence in, to do what is right, pleasing and acceptable. Cheers. Follow @PastorChinae

PRAY FOR US

Have you noticed that Apostle Paul asked for prayers all the time? Every Epistle contains at least a request for prayers for him. He asked for prayers as if his life depended on it. Well, yes, his life and his success depended on prayers. And so it is for everyone, especially ministers of the gospel. But many people don’t take praying for pastors seriously; instead, we leave the praying for the pastors to do. In his second letter to the Thessalonians, Apostle Paul said, “Finally, brethren, pray for us, that the word of the Lord may have a free course, and be glorified, even as it is with you: and that we may be delivered from unreasonable and wicked men: for all men have not faith.” 2 Thessalonians 3:1-2. You know, Satan has blinded the hearts of men so that they won’t receive the word, and as at today, there are nations who still have policies against Christianity and the gospel we preach. Pray for both the message and the messenger. Understand that the messenger is as important as the message, because without the messenger, there might be no message. Don’t be one of those who always criticize ministers. All some brethren do in a service is analyse the music and preaching, and then they go home and discuss how well or poorly the minister did. Instead of doing that, spend your time praying for him or her, and that God will cause him to improve and that God will perfect him. People always wonder why ministers move around with policemen, or private body guards; well, while I’m not justifying it or offering an explanation for it, we need to understand that there are wicked and unreasonable men in the world; these men are willing instruments of Satan to hurt ministers of the gospel for no logical reason. So, always pray for the deliverance of ministers and their family members as well. As you do, may the blessings of God be upon you. Amen. Follow @PastorChinae

CELEBRATE YOUR SALVATION

Some Theologians, preachers and students of the Bible wrestle with the doctrine of predestination, especially with regards to salvation. But the Bible is full of verses showing that God ordained people for salvation from the beginning of the world. For instance, 2 Thessalonians 2:13 says, “But we are bound to give thanks alway to God for you, brethren beloved of the Lord, because God hath from the beginning chosen you to salvation through sanctification of the Spirit and belief of the truth.” That you are saved today is something to celebrate! Why? Because God chose to have mercy on you! Long before your parents met, and before you were conceived in your mother’s womb, God knew you and decided that you will be one of the candidates of His mercy and affection! Isn’t that wonderful? It is! Despite our sins and shortcomings, long before we even repented, God loved us. Hallelujah! Understand how special you really are! 1 Peter 2:9 Holman Christian Standard Bible says, “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His possession, so that you may proclaim the praises of the One who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.” Of all the billions of people in the world, you are one of those God chose to favour: your salvation is something to celebrate! Be a grateful Christian; never take your salvation for granted. Like the song says, if praise is like perfume, lavish it on God till every drop is gone; every day, pour your love on Him; nothing you’ll ever do will be too much to show appreciation for what He has done. Shalom. Follow @PastorChinae

GLORIFYING CHRIST IN YOU

Ron Kenoly wrote and sang, “Be glorified in the heavens, be glorified in the earth, be glorified in this temple, Jesus, Jesus, be thou glorified.” You see, God is glorified in heaven, and here on earth; the question is, “Is He being glorified in you? 2 Thessalonians 1:12 says, “That the name of Jesus Christ may be glorified in you, and ye in him, according to the grace of our God and the Lord Jesus Christ.” I think the New Living Translation says it better, “Then the name of our Lord Jesus will be honoured because of the way you live, and you will be honoured along with him. This is all made possible because of the grace of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ.” To glorify Christ in you is to honour Him. The question then is: have you been honouring Christ by the way you live? The things you do, the things you say, the places you go, the way you dress; have they been honouring God? According to the Scriptures, when we honour Christ, we will be honoured along with Him. And vice versa! In other words, when we dishonour Him, we will also be dishonoured! But the thing is that God always finds a way to glorify Himself; He said, “My name will be great among the nations, from the rising to the setting of the sun.” Malachi 1:11. So we lose when we dishonour Him. I’ll rather honour Him so that I might be honoured along with Him. His grace is sufficient for us. The concluding part of the verse says, “This is all made possible because of the grace of our God and Lord, Jesus Christ.” God never leaves us clueless, helpless or powerless: He has made grace available. Titus 2:11 says that the grace of God appeared to all men, teaching us to deny ungodliness and worldly lusts, and to live soberly, righteously and godly in this present world. Follow @PastorChinae

POWER FOR ACCOMPLISHMENTS

God is so good! He asks you to do something, and He also helps you to do it. God’s Word Translation of 2 Thessalonians 1:11b says, “We also pray that through [his] power he will help you accomplish every good desire and help you do everything your faith produces.” Hallelujah! If I were you, I would begin to desire to do great things for God! The verse says that God’s power is available to help us accomplish every good desire. Did you see that? It says “every good desire.” Why don’t you prepare your list of desires and things you want to accomplish for yourself and also for the kingdom of God. The verse also talks about God helping us do everything our faith produces. In other words, if you can take that first step of faith, God will back you up! Stop trying to do things by your own strength and wisdom; have you not read that it is not by might or by power, but by the Spirit of God? Isn't it better to spend a few minutes in prayer to seek God’s assistance daily than to wear yourself out the whole day and achieve only little or nothing? With your own strength and resources, life will be full of struggles and you will be no different from your competitors, but with God’s power, you will achieve extraordinary results and have all you need to excel. Just as Paul prayed, I pray for you today, that God, through His power will help you accomplish great things! I pray for you, that you be divinely helped in your business, in school, on your job and in whatever thing you get yourself involved in! I pray for you, that God will help you to achieve amazing results that will cause your colleagues and competitors to wonder! Receive that power for accomplishments, in Jesus’ name! Amen. Follow @PastorChinae

IN DANGER OF ETERNAL DESTRUCTION

We are either telling ourselves the truth or we are telling ourselves lies; we either believe the Scriptures or we don’t. At Christmas we celebrate the love of God for man: “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.” John 3:16. All would have been well, and everything would have been fine if the story ended there. Verses 18 and 19 of John 3 say, “He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God. And this is the condemnation, that light is come into the world, and men loved darkness rather than light, because their deeds were evil.” Apostle Paul paints a scarier picture, he said, “When the Lord Jesus shall be revealed from heaven with his mighty angels, in flaming fire taking vengeance on them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ: who shall be punished with everlasting destruction from the presence of the Lord, and from the glory of his power.” 2 Thessalonians 1:8-9. Dear saints, I have a question for you: how much do you really love your friends, colleagues and relations who do not believe and are still in sin? I have another question for you: what have you done, or what are you doing about getting them saved? One more question for you: how would you feel when in heaven, you do not see those you loved here on earth, and then it dawns on you that they will suffer eternal destruction, forever and ever? Follow @PastorChinae

RUNNING WITH DIVINE VISIONS

Visions are pictures, desires, ideas and thoughts of what we want to happen, birth, create or bring to life (Genesis 11:4). God may give us visions of a glorious end without revealing the steps to getting there. He wants to lead us there! One day at a time, He will give us guidance and direction. Visions are products of imagination or revelation. In other words, visions proceed either from the mind or from God (Nehemiah 2:12b). No divine vision is ordinary, insignificant or irrelevant. People may not understand it, and may try to discourage you, but don’t take your eyes of your vision! Don’t lose your vision; don’t abandon your God given vision; pursue it relentlessly. Visions are meant to be achieved, and achievement of them results in fulfillment. You are successful to the extent to which you fulfill your visions. In other words, success is measured in terms of achievement of visions. Vision should provoke action. God expects us to run with visions that He has given to us. Habakkuk 2:2 says, “Write the vision, and make it plain upon tables, that he may run that readeth it.” Some visions require helpers, and the helpers require unity both with themselves and the visionary in order to actualize the vision (1 Chronicles 12:18, Genesis 11:6). For visions to come to pass, passion, favour, faith, focus, courage, ability, wisdom and grace are required. Your vision might require you to take risks, but you won’t lose if are doing God’s will. Make no mistakes about it; Satan will always attack a God given vision, because every God given vision is that the will of God be done on earth as it is done in heaven. There might be obstacles on the road to accomplishing visions; see them as hurdles; jump and pass them! Even if the visions are personal ones, they can still be backed by God as long as it is for His glory and not contrary to His word. Ephesians 3:20 says God is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think. There is no vision that is greater than God! No matter how big your vision is, I decree that it shall come to pass in the name of Jesus! Follow @PastorChinae

DIVINE PROTECTION

The presence of the Lord is the surest protection and assurance of safety. When God is with a man, the man is at rest, and safe from all evils. Thankfully, we have a God who is always with us. Not only is He with us, He watches over us, and has also given His angels charge over us. We have nothing to fear. Psalm 121:3-8 says, “He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber; indeed, he who watches over Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. The LORD watches over you—the LORD is your shade at your right hand; the sun will not harm you by day, nor the moon by night. The LORD will keep you from all harm—he will watch over your life; the LORD will watch over your coming and going both now and forevermore.” Amen. One of the names of God is El Roi, meaning, The God of sight – who keeps watch. Another of His names is Jehovah-Shammah, meaning, The Lord is present. He has another name called El Yeshuati – The God of my salvation: meaning that He gives salvation, deliverance and victory. Glory to God! As you travel, El Roi will go with you and your family; He will keep watch over you, in the name of Jesus! Jehovah-Shammah will be with you! And El Yeshuati shall grant you deliverance and victory over all the works and imaginations of the evil one! Psalm 91:5-11 says, “Do not be afraid of the terrors of the night, nor the arrow that flies in the day. Do not dread the disease that stalks in darkness, nor the disaster that strikes at midday. Though a thousand fall at your side, though ten thousand are dying around you, these evils will not touch you. Just open your eyes, and see how the wicked are punished. If you make the LORD your refuge, if you make the Most High your shelter, no evil will conquer you; no plague will come near your home. For he will order his angels to protect you wherever you go.” Hallelujah! As you travel, whether by land, sea, or air; whether with a car, train, plane or ship, do not fear! I decree divine protection for you and your family in the name of Jesus! The name of the Lord is a strong tower, the righteous runs into it and they are safe; you and your family shall arrive safely in Jesus’ name! Amen. Follow @PastorChinae

THANKSGIVING: REMEMBERING HIS MIRACLES OF LONG AGO

I think that 365 days is long enough for some of us to forget some of what happened in our lives; and that's why we do not give God all the thanksgiving He deserves. And there are some of us who like to postpone testimonies, we wait till November or December 31 to testify, but by then we must have forgotten a lot of things that the Lord did for us. That’s not good. Understand that there's nothing too small to thank God for. Ephesians 5:20 says "Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;" Now, if we must thank God for all things, then you'll agree with me that there's so much to remember and give thanks for in our lives. Won't it be better for us to begin to keep record of God's goodness to us? I think so. Get a diary or a notepad; you can call it your book of remembrance: when God heals you write it down, when He delivers you from accidents, write it down; when He doesn't allow your creditors shame you, write it down; when someone blesses you with money or gifts, also write it down. Don't take things for granted. Psalm 77:11 says "I will remember the deeds of the LORD; yes, I will remember your miracles of long ago." If you keep such notes, when the time comes for thanksgiving, you'll be able to give God a quality sacrifice of praise for all He did for you. And may I quickly add that every time is appropriate for thanksgiving. God bless you. Follow @PastorChinae

EXCEEDINGLY GROWING FAITH

Once, while Christ was on earth, the apostles said to Him, “Lord, Increase our faith.” Luke 17:5. They had the understanding that faith should grow. Nothing should remain stagnant, else it begins to die; our faith should always grow, in that way, we can enjoy greater benefits of same. Apostle Paul wrote to the Thessalonians, “We are bound to thank God always for you, brethren, as it is meet, because that your faith growth exceedingly...” 2 Thessalonians 1:3. Their faith grew at a very fast rate; from having faith as a grain of mustard seed, their faith kept on growing until they had great faith. When faith is little, you can doubt; and when it is weak, it won’t last, it will stagger at the promises of God in unbelief. But great faith achieves uncommon results and makes you triumph in life. Now, the Scripture says that faith comes by hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17). You've got to feed yourself regularly with the word; from taking the milk of the word, graduate to taking the strong meat of the word; let the word of Christ dwell richly in you in all wisdom and understanding, and receive the word with a right attitude. Also, faith comes through seeing: the more you see the works of God, the more your faith in Him grows. Place yourself in an environment of faith. As it is with wisdom, so it is with faith; he who walks with men of great faith will sooner or later become men of great faith. Associate with people who can sharpen you; people who encourage you to grow; people who speak words of faith and do works of faith. Make it your priority to grow exceedingly in faith; remember that faith is the victory that overcomes the world. Follow @PastorChinae

2013 NEW YEAR MESSAGE

I did say that 2012 was The Year of The Church. By virtue of the fact that we are members of the Church, 2012 was our year, both individually and collectively. In this age of social media, NY Times published on June 2, that Christian Leaders were powerhouses on Twitter. Their performance was said to be 30 times more than the celebrities of the world who even had more followers. So mightily grew the word of God on Twitter! Twitter executives were amazed and had to go on a mission to get more Christian Leaders to Twitter. If we check properly, the church reigned, not only on Twitter, but in every sphere of life. Praise the Lord! At the beginning of the year, I said that “As many as shall walk with the Lord shall experience the glory of the Lord.” I saw God’s glory! God granted me promotions and opened doors. In 2012, God showed Himself to me as a Great Deliverer. When there seemed to be no way out of the many troubles I faced, He delivered me from them all! I believe you too can testify of what the Lord did for you. Notable things happened in 2012 – internationally and nationally. And with regards to my ministry, apart from the healing, encouragements and answers to prayers, God opened the doors of several countries to me. People from all over the world, including Nigeria, the United States, the United Kingdom, Russia, France, Germany, Hungary, Sweden, Canada and China viewed my messages on my blog! I think that’s amazing. 2012 was my first year of blogging and I am trusting God to do greater works this year. I will preach like never before and the Lord will confirm His word with signs and wonders! Well, 2013 for Able Ministers Chapel is THE YEAR OF GOODNESS! In 2013, we will see the goodness of God like never before! Psalm 34:8 says, “O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusts in him.” We've been walking with the Lord for many years now, tasting Him; and we have seen some of His goodness. But in 2013, we’re going to see a tremendous dimension of God’s goodness in our lives! By December 31, we will testify that the Lord is so good, because from today, surely, goodness and mercy shall follow us, everywhere, every time and every day! Hallelujah! In 2013, here’s what you should do: be good to others, especially the needy, like the orphans and widows. Visit them with food, clothes and any other thing you can afford. God will be good to us, and we must extend that goodness to others: that’s what the Lord wants us to do. For many out there, there will be sorrowful times during the year, things will be hard, there will be deaths, more prominent people will pass away, but for you and I who believe, it will be a never ending experience of the goodness of God! Hallelujah! If you can, I encourage you to pray and fast today. HAPPY NEW YEAR! Follow @PastorChinae