PRAYING WITH THE WORD

Spirit & Life Devotional
Wednesday Night, April 30
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

PRAYING WITH THE WORD

Nehemiah 1:8-9 NKJV "Remember, I pray, the word that You commanded Your servant Moses, saying, ‘ If you are unfaithful, I will scatter you among the nations; but if you return to Me, and keep My commandments and do them, though some of you were cast out to the farthest part of the heavens, yet I will gather them from there, and bring them to the place which I have chosen as a dwelling for My name.’"

People wonder why they don't get answers to their prayers; they hear others testify and it's as if they have been praying to a different God.

God answers prayers! Hallelujah! 1 John 5:14-15 says, "We can come to God with no doubts. This means that when we ask God for things (and those things agree with what God wants for us), God cares about what we say. He listens to us every time we ask him. So we know that he gives us whatever we ask from him."

That's the secret! When you pray, ensure that your requests are in agreement with God's plans and purposes for your life. To be sure you're praying aright, pray with the word of God. Remind God of what He has said because His word can never return to Him void. He watches over His word to perform it.

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TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION

Spirit & Life Devotional
Wednesday Morning, April 30
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

TRAINING THE NEXT GENERATION

2 John 1:4 ERV "I was very happy to learn about some of your children. I am happy that they are following the way of truth, just as the Father commanded us."

Training children and youths is a collective responsibility and not for parents alone. Proverbs 22:6 NKJV says, "Train up a child in the way he should go, And when he is old he will not depart from it." He was referring to everyone of us.

To a large extent, a previous generation is responsible for whatever the next generation becomes. If we want a better future we must take responsibility for it; merely wishing for a better future won't achieve the desired results, we must work hard for it.

Be interested in the spiritual growth and development of every child around you. If their parents aren't doing a great job, that's why you're there! Teach them to sing Christian songs, teach them to pray and to say praise the Lord. Buy them children bibles, teach them not to use foul languages, and to respect and love one another. And you parents, you must never fail God. Don't give birth to children that Satan will use! Train your children to love the Lord, to do good and to live a purpose driven life.

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ASK FOR AS MUCH AS YOU WANT

Spirit & Life Devotional
Tuesday Night, April 29
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

ASK FOR AS MUCH AS YOU WANT

Joshua 15:18 ERV "Acsah went to live with Othniel. Othniel told Acsah to ask her father Caleb for some more land. Acsah went to her father. When she got off her donkey, Caleb asked her, “What do you want?”

In Zion there's no scarcity of anything; everything is in excess. Here's what I'm saying, that God can give you whatever you want, whenever you want it and however you want it. God is not worried by the fact that He gets countless requests every second, He is able!

Here's what God said to David when he took Bathsheba from Uriah; "I let you take his (Saul) family and his wives, and I made you king of Israel and Judah. As if that had not been enough, I would have given you more and more." 2 Samuel 12:8. I like that.

What do you want? Our God owns the world and all that is in it! You don't have to cheat or steal to get anything in life; simply ask the Lord for it! Ask and keep asking! Jesus said, Ask that your joy may be full! Hallelujah!

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DON'T CRY

Spirit & Life Devotional
Tuesday Morning, April 29
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

DON'T CRY

Revelation 5:5 ERV "But one of the elders said to me, “Don’t cry! The Lion from the tribe of Judah has won the victory. He is David’s descendant. He is able to open the scroll and its seven seals.”

There are times we cry: you have tried to make it work, you have tried to be strong, you have done your best, you've even prayed and fasted, yet no change. You're weighed down by the pressures of life and the battles are too tough for you.

A lady cried in my office; she was tired and frustrated; after a few years since graduation she had no good job, no one was helping her, and nothing seemed to be working: as she cried, I was touched and almost cried! I encouraged her with the word of God, prayed for her, and assured her that things would change. Thank God, things have changed and are improving! Hallelujah!

David said in Psalms 6:6-7 "Lord, I am so weak. I cried to you all night. My pillow is soaked; my bed is dripping wet from my tears. My enemies have caused me such sorrow that my eyes are worn out from crying." Some of you are crying within you; you laugh in the day but your pillow is soaked at night; no child, no health, no spouse, no money, etc. Don't cry! The Lion of Judah has won the victory and He is very able to turn your life around! He said to be of good cheer, because He overcame the world! Your night has lasted for too long, it's morning, joy has come! Hallelujah!

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MAKING DECISIONS

Spirit & Life Devotional
Monday Night, April 28
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

MAKING DECISIONS

Numbers 9:8 ERV "Moses said to them, “I will ask the Lord what he says about this.”

Scientists say that the average person makes thousands upon thousands of decisions every day, voluntarily and involuntarily. But how many of those decisions are taken after consulting God?

Proverbs 3:5-7 ERV says "Trust the Lord completely, and don’t depend on your own knowledge. With every step you take, think about what he wants, and he will help you go the right way. Don’t trust in your own wisdom, but fear and respect the Lord and stay away from evil."

So why go to school? What's the essence of having so many degrees and attending seminars if we're to trust in God completely? Is God really interested in every detail of our lives? God wants us to acknowledge Him; and while it is good to acquire knowledge, we must understand the limitations of all human knowledge: we honour God by seeking His opinions.

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SUFFERING FOR CHRIST

Spirit & Life Devotional
Monday Morning, April 28
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

SUFFERING FOR CHRIST

Acts 14:22 ERV "In those cities they helped the followers grow stronger in their faith and encouraged them to continue trusting God. They told them, “We must suffer many things on our way into God’s kingdom.”

Serving the Lord, isn't fun, as many of us seem to think it is. If your own race has been without any kind of suffering as a result of what you believe, I can safely say that you're not doing something right: you're either not talking about Jesus or you're not living the life the way you ought to.

2 Timothy 3:12 ERV says that "Everyone who wants to live showing true devotion to God in Christ Jesus will be persecuted." Just before He left, Jesus said, “I have told you these things so that you can have peace in me. In this world you will have troubles. But be brave! I have defeated the world!” Hallelujah!

But when we suffer with Him we will share His glory with Him. Brothers and sisters, stop seeking for a crown without a cross! Following Jesus is a call to carry your cross and follow Him every day! A Christianity without a cross is a false one! Jesus said, “Students are not better than their teacher. Servants are not better than their master. Students should be happy to be treated the same as their teacher. And servants should be happy to be treated the same as their master. If those people call me ‘the ruler of demons,’ and I am the head of the family, then it is even more certain that they will insult you, the members of the family!" Exactly!

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PRAYING FOR YOUR COUNTRY

Spirit & Life Devotional
Sunday Night, April 27
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

PRAYING FOR YOUR COUNTRY

Psalms 122:6-9 ERV "Pray for peace in Jerusalem: “May those who love you find peace. May there be peace within your walls. May there be safety in your great buildings.” For the good of my family and neighbors, I pray that there will be peace here. For the good of the Temple of the Lord our God, I pray that good things will happen to this city."

It's like bad news is the only news these days; it's either news about a missing flight; the abduction of school girls; a ferry that capsized with about 475 passengers; or the bombing of a park on a Monday morning resulting in the death of countless people.

It's so easy for us to conclude that we are in the end times, and that there's no need to pray since the Bible is full of prophecies of worse things: but that's not the will of God; we are here as watchmen over lives, and through prayer we must effect as much change as we can.

I urge you to spend a few minutes in prayer tonight before you sleep: pray for the city in which you reside, pray also for your state and your country; and then for people in other nations of the world. Your prayer can make a difference.

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ALWAYS JOYFUL

Spirit & Life Devotional
Sunday Morning, April 27
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

ALWAYS JOYFUL

Philippians 4:4 ERV "Always be filled with joy in the Lord. I will say it again. Be filled with joy."

There are people who like to ask WHY; it's okay. So they are asking why they should be filled with joy all time; "Must someone smile all the time?" they ask; or they buttress the fact that they are moody people always having mood swings; "Someone cannot be happy all the time" they say.

I'm sorry, I won't attempt to answer all your questions, but I want you to understand that "Happiness is good medicine, but sorrow is a disease." (Proverbs 17:22). Also, know that the joy of the Lord makes us strong (Nehemiah 8:10). Hallelujah!

Someone says "Why are you always smiling?" I'll tell you: the fruit of the Spirit is joy! It doesn't matter what goes on around me; it doesn't matter if my body is weak and broken; it doesn't matter if I've been disappointed and have lost a lot; and it doesn't matter if I didn't get what I earnestly expected; in my heart there's always joy that keeps me going! Hallelujah!

To be filled with joy always is one of the greatest manifestations of faith. What you're saying is that you trust God enough to make a way where there's none; you're saying "Lord, I may not understand what's going on but I know that You are with me causing all things to work together for my good!" Hallelujah!

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YOUR DAY OF REMEMBRANCE

Spirit & Life Devotional
Saturday Night, April 26
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

YOUR DAY OF REMEMBRANCE

2 Samuel 9:3-4 ERV "The king said, “Is there anyone left in Saul’s family? I want to show God’s kindness to this person.” Ziba said to King David, “Jonathan has a son still living. He is crippled in both feet.” The king said to Ziba, “Where is this son?” Ziba said to the king, “He is at the house of Makir son of Ammiel in Lo Debar.”

Before David sought for Ziba he was a nobody even though he was a prince. He was practically insignificant and invisible; from the palace he had been moved to somewhere unknown; from grace to grass. To make matters worse Ziba was a cripple; he was greatly limited.

I don't know for how long Ziba prayed and hoped for the day his change would come; for a long time it seemed that nothing was happening, but God was moving on Ziba's behalf; he made David want to do good to someone of the house of Saul, and that person was Ziba!

I don't know you, but God wants me to tell you that He knows all about you and your present location. And He wants you to know that He's already working on your behalf. He is causing men to remember you now; soon all will be well, soon you will be restored, soon, God will grant all the desires of your heart! Amen.

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ARRESTING INDISCIPLINE

Spirit & Life Devotional
Saturday Morning, April 26
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

ARRESTING INDISCIPLINE

1 Timothy 5:20 ERV "Tell those who sin that they are wrong. Do this in front of the whole church so that the others will have a warning."

There's so much indiscipline virtually everywhere, including the church. We've preached grace to a point where people now think that they can live however they like without consequences. There are really no standards anymore in many circles; any kind of behaviour seems permissible; people are hardly rebuked for their errors, maybe so that they don't lose members. That's an error. We are becoming lawless.

Even the people don’t seem to want to be corrected. You try to correct people and they simply move to another church. Or you correct them in a particular way and they feel insulted, they want to determine how they are to be corrected. But Proverbs 27:5-6 says "An open rebuke is better than hidden love! Wounds from a sincere friend are better than many kisses from an enemy."

Hebrews 12:6, 8 says "The Lord disciplines everyone he loves; he punishes everyone he accepts as a child. So, if you never receive the discipline that every child must have, you are not true children and don’t really belong to God." Verse 11 says, "We don’t enjoy discipline when we get it. It is painful. But later, after we have learned our lesson from it, we will enjoy the peace that comes from doing what is right."

We need to ask for forgiveness for all acts of indiscipline; it may seem like there are no repercussions but there are - always! Indiscipline is a bad seed that yields bad fruits. If we go to God truly sorry He will forgive us.

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A MARK OF PROTECTION

Spirit & Life Devotional
Friday Night, April 25
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

A MARK OF PROTECTION

Genesis 4:15 ERV "Then the Lord said to Cain, “No, if anyone kills you, I will punish that person much, much more.” Then the Lord put a mark on Cain to show that no one should kill him."

God marks people from time to time for several reasons, but generally for protection. In the Book of Revelations, we read that both God and the devil would mark people as the world ends.

Maybe you're one of those who thinks that the world will never end, you better have a rethink, because the world would surely come to an end; very soon as a matter of fact, and you better get yourself ready. The present heavens and the earth will pass away, and the new would come. Hallelujah!

Tonight, ask God to place a mark of protection upon you and your loved ones. It's so sad that a lot of believers are victims of evil men. You'll never be a victim in Jesus' name. You shall enjoy God’s divine protection all the days of your life. Amen.

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MIRACLE MAGNET

Spirit & Life Devotional
Friday Morning, April 25
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

MIRACLE MAGNET

Acts 14:8-9 ERV "In Lystra there was a man who had something wrong with his feet. He had been born crippled and had never walked. He was sitting and listening to Paul speak. Paul looked straight at him and saw that the man believed God could heal him."

I believe in miracles!

Here, we're examining the case of a man who had never walked. Maybe Paul was teaching about how Jesus restored the sight of a man of about 40 years who was born blind. But notice that Paul saw that the man had faith to be healed. There was something about the man's countenance or body language that got Paul's attention even without a verbal communication!

Instead of wearing a long face and sending wrong signals around, seeking sympathy, complaining to everyone willing to listen, you can get God's attention with your faith! The word that does miracles is the same word that brings faith; therefore, whenever you want a miracle, spend time meditating on the word, injecting faith into your spirit! Express your faith through your words and your actions today. Your miracle is on the way!

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LONG LIFE AND PROSPERITY

Spirit & Life Devotional
Thursday Night, April 24
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

LONG LIFE AND PROSPERITY

Genesis 24:1 ERV "Abraham lived to be a very old man. The Lord blessed him and everything he did."

According to estimates, as at 2013, only about 3% of our population are 65 years old and above, and life expectancy at birth is 52.46 years. Also, the Bureau of Statistics says that about 112 million Nigerians are living below the poverty line.

What the above means is that many of us are living poor and dying young; including Christians! But that's certainly not the will of God for us. He said in Psalms 91:16, "I will give my followers a long life and show them my power to save.” Hallelujah!

Just like papa Abraham, God has blessed us. Long life is ours; we're going to live to see our children's children in Jesus' name! We'll live long in good health, enjoying the goodness of our God. Say Amen!

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GETTING WHATEVER YOU WANT

Spirit & Life Devotional
Thursday Morning, April 24
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

GETTING WHATEVER YOU WANT

James 4:2-3 ERV "You want things, but you don’t get them. So you kill and are jealous of others. But you still cannot get what you want. So you argue and fight. You don’t get what you want because you don’t ask God. Or when you ask, you don’t receive anything, because the reason you ask is wrong. You only want to use it for your own pleasure."

It is possible to have anything you want if you ask God for it with the right reasons.

One thing God detests is selfishness because selfishness is the opposite of love. Any desire or need born from a selfish heart can only be gotten by yourself; in other words, God will not do it for you. To receive anything from God; or, to get Him to do anything for you, your requests must be inspired by love.

If why you want to succeed is so that you can be bigger than your uncle who refused to sponsor your education, then you are on your own. However, if your intention is to use your success to make the world around you a better place and expand the kingdom of God, then God becomes your Senior Partner! Do you understand? To get whatever you want in life - promotions, properties, children, etc - ensure that you ask God for it with the right reasons. God is love.

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BECOMING GREAT

Spirit & Life Devotional
Wednesday Night, April 23
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

BECOMING GREAT

Deuteronomy 28:1 ERV “Now, if you will be careful to obey the Lord your God and follow all his commands that I tell you today, the Lord your God will put you high above all the nations on earth."

Does God want us to be great on earth? Yes; not only that, He wants to make us greater than our contemporaries. If He said He'd put the Israelites above all nations then He can put you above all men if you let Him.

I know it sounds like fiction; just like you, I know quite a number of the biggest names in the world in all endeavours of life; you may have compared yourself with them and concluded that you don't stand a chance; well, if you doubt yourself, please don't doubt God!

If tonight you commit yourself to doing the word of God, you'll watch yourself rise higher and higher every day, every month and every year. You can become the talk of the town in the next few years! You can become greater than you have ever imagined if you'd devote yourself to doing the word consistently. I'm rising daily; my paths are as the shining light that shines brighter and brighter; daily I'm growing greater and greater because of the word of God! Hallelujah!

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HAVING CHURCH AT HOME

Spirit & Life Devotional
Tuesday Morning, April 23
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

HAVING CHURCH AT HOME

Philemon 1:2 ERV "Also to our sister Apphia, to Archippus, who serves with us in the Lord’s army, and to the church that meets in your home."

Thank God for cell meetings and house fellowships; but isn't it funny that a lot of us would meet with brethren in our neighbourhoods but wouldn't have fellowship with our own family members? We eat together, sleep together, live together, but don't spend time together to fellowship with our Father.

When two or three people gather in the name of Jesus, He is right there with them. And that's church! Even if I had just a member church would go on because I'm fully conscious of the presence of the Lord with us. He said He would be present!

Daddies and mummies, big brothers and sisters, you are responsible for whatever happens in your homes and it is your duty to lead all the members of your home in worship to the Lord. If you can watch tv together then you can pray together; if your money can feed them, then they can receive the word from your heart. Sow seeds of greatness in the lives of your family members; be a man and woman of God of your own home! Your house is your ministry; be faithful!

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IGNORING INSULTS

Spirit & Life Devotional
Monday Night, April 22
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

IGNORING INSULTS

Proverbs 19:11 ERV "Experience makes you more patient, and you are most patient when you ignore insults."

As I read about Jesus' trials and the crucifixion, one of the things that struck me was the fact that Jesus, I mean Jesus Christ the Son of God, the King of kings and Lord of lords, was spat upon, buffeted (blown hard), and slapped by mere mortals, and He did nothing at all about it! That got my attention.

I imagining that quite a number of toes were stepped upon today: I can imagine people being upset about how they were rudely spoken to by their junior colleagues at work, or something else, maybe less or worse; some might have sworn to deal with whoever upset them, and they are strategizing right now; they are obviously not going to turn the other cheek.

1 Peter 2:19 shows us what pleases God. It says, "One of you might have to suffer even when you have done nothing wrong. If you think of God and bear the pain, this pleases God." Ignoring insults and choosing not to react negatively pleases God thereby making Him responsible for reacting on your behalf.

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THE SIGNS OF BELIEVERS

Spirit & Life Devotional
Tuesday Morning, April 22
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

THE SIGNS OF BELIEVERS

Exodus 4:8 ERV "Then God said, “If the people don’t believe you when you use your walking stick, then they will believe you when you show them this sign."

The initial reaction of a lot of people, including Christians, to a man sent by God is to doubt him. They become skeptical, they ask you how you heard God, why you think God actually spoke to you, what your true intentions are, etc. Especially those who knew you before your calling; your family, friends, colleagues and neighbours, they are usually the last to believe you.

Signs are given so that men would believe. Apostle Paul said to the Corinthians, "When I was with you, I patiently did the things that prove I am an apostle—signs, wonders, and miracles." 2 Corinthians 12:12. Signs are a proof to those you have been sent to that God is with you. That's why Elijah said to the captain, “If I am a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and destroy you and your 50 men!” That was a sign to the king.

Jesus said, "And the people who believe will be able to do these things as proof: They will use my name to force demons out of people. They will speak in languages they never learned. If they pick up snakes or drink any poison, they will not be hurt. They will lay their hands on sick people, and they will get well.” Mark 16:17-18. Hallelujah!

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CONTINUING THE WORKS OF CHRIST

Spirit & Life Devotional
Monday Night, April 21
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

CONTINUING THE WORKS OF CHRIST

Mark 1:17 ERV "Jesus said to them, “Come, follow me, and I will make you a different kind of fishermen. You will bring in people, not fish.”

There's a risk of many businesses and organisations failing after their proprietors are dead; it's called key man risk. It actually affects all kinds of businesses and teams; there's always a risk of losing an important member of staff, an important member of the team, and so on.

The ministry of Jesus was never meant to end after His ascension to heaven, even though He's the Key Man. He promised to be with us until the end of the world.

The apostles and members of the early Church played a huge role in expanding the kingdom of God here on earth; great men and women of faith in subsequent generations equally contributed immensely in getting men converted and established in the faith. Even today, lots of people are doing the works of Christ. How about you?

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MANY AMAZING THINGS

Spirit & Life Devotional
Monday Morning, April 21
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

MANY AMAZING THINGS

Psalms 40:5 ERV "Lord my God, you have done many amazing things! You have made great plans for us—too many to list. I could talk on and on about them, because there are too many to count."

I keep saying that if sending Jesus to die for us was the only thing God ever did for us, it would suffice. After giving us Jesus to save us from our sins, God did not need to do anything else. But guess what; that was just the beginning of many more things to come! Hallelujah!

See Jesus as a house full of everything you'd ever need in life. When a man receives the gift of Jesus, he receives a house fully furnished, fully loaded with every thing else-clothes, food, cars, money, jewelry, furniture, everything!  Romans 8:32 says "He even let his own Son suffer for us. God gave his Son for all of us. So now with Jesus, God will surely give us all things." Hallelujah!

If only we had the faintest idea of God's plans for us and knew how much He loves us, we would fall madly in love with Him not caring about what anyone thinks. He does amazing things for us; He heals us, protects us, provides for us, gives us contracts, makes our dreams come true, gives us jobs, wonderful spouses and children! Many amazing things to count! Hallelujah!

You might be wondering when He will do something you've been praying about: soon! I assure you that He will do much more than you think and are asking for! You will surely testify!

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THE HOPE FOR GLORY

Spirit & Life Devotional
Sunday Night, April 20
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

THE HOPE FOR GLORY

Colossians 1:27 ERV "God decided to let his people know just how rich and glorious that truth is. That secret truth, which is for all people, is that Christ lives in you, his people. He is our hope for glory."

The resurrection of Christ from the dead made it possible for us to experience one of the greatest wonders of God; His ability to indwell us. The Great and Mighty God Who created the world made Himself so small and unlimited and took abode in our hearts! What a mystery! Hallelujah!

Christ lives in us now! Hallelujah! No wonder Paul wrote, "No longer I who lives but Christ lives in me." Christ came into our hearts the moment we made Him Lord of our lives. Christ in us is our assurance of glory!

It refers to both the future glory awaiting us and a present glory here on earth. I declare to you today that your life is not for shame, disgrace or humiliation; things may not be pleasant right now; but because Christ is in you, tomorrow will surely be better! Because of this Easter, your life will never remain the same again! From glory to glory, so shall it be in Jesus name!

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A DISPENSATION OF GRACE

Spirit & Life Devotional
Sunday Morning, April 20
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

A DISPENSATION OF GRACE

John 1:17 ERV "That is, the law was given to us through Moses, but grace and truth came through Jesus Christ."

Jesus came with something unique; grace! The moment He died, the new testament was immediately enforced; the world did not immediately realize what had happened, but life had changed completely! Hallelujah!

A lot of people misunderstand grace; so they abuse it and even preach against it. Paul shed light on what grace is really about: he said, "It teaches us not to live against God and not to do the bad things the world wants to do. It teaches us to live on earth now in a wise and right way—a way that shows true devotion to God." Titus 2:12

The law tried from without to make men please God and to do what was right, but grace works from within us, enabling us to please God and to do what is right. What we need is more and more grace! Thankfully it is written, "With Jesus as our high priest, we can feel free to come before God’s throne where there is grace. There we receive mercy and kindness to help us when we need it." Hebrews 4:16. We who have received an abundance of grace are reigning in life! Glory to God!

Happy Easter!

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PASSOVER WITH JESUS

Spirit & Life Devotional
Saturday Night, April 19
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

PASSOVER WITH JESUS

Luke 22:15-16 ERV "Jesus said to them, “I wanted very much to eat this Passover meal with you before I die. I will never eat another Passover meal until it is given its full meaning in God’s kingdom.”

Jesus' last wish before He was crucified was to have passover with the disciples. That lets us know how important it was to Him.

Maybe you didn't know before now, the passover is a festival of the Jews commemorating their exodus from Egypt, the land of slavery and oppression. Now, Jesus didn't desire to have passover just because He was about to leave the world; it signified something greater; our exodus from the kingdom of darkness and from the oppression of Satan! Hallelujah!

Every time you take the communion, remember that you were set free and rejoice for the victory that Jesus obtained for us through the cross! Glory to God! Do one more thing: look forward to having passover with Him in heaven, and determine to be there on that glorious day when we shall feast with other saints in the presence of our Father.

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APPRECIATING WHAT YOU HAVE WHILE YOU HAVE IT

Spirit & Life Devotional
Saturday Morning, April 19
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

APPRECIATING WHAT YOU HAVE WHILE YOU HAVE IT

Mark 14:7 ERV "You will always have the poor with you, and you can help them any time you want. But you will not always have me."

I wish I was born in the time when Jesus was here on earth; I wish I was there to see Him walk, to hear Him talk, to watch Him minister to people; and to know what it's truly like to be in His presence. But you know what, I could spend the rest of my life wishing all that and more, but it would never happen!

Every thing on earth is temporal, including your family and friends; nothing on earth will last forever; a time will come when they'll be no more. The thing is that you don't know when they'll be taken away from you.

Appreciate everyone in your life now while you can; husbands appreciate your wives, wives appreciate your husbands, appreciate your children, children appreciate your parents; start now to show your appreciation for them, even if it's in very little ways; your plans to show your appreciation in a big way in future might never be. Everyone is valuable; people are more important than things; you can always have things but people soon become memories.

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NO NEED FOR EASTER

Spirit & Life Devotional
Friday Night, April 18
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

NO NEED FOR EASTER

Isaiah 53:5 ERV "But he was being punished for what we did. He was crushed because of our guilt. He took the punishment we deserved, and this brought us peace. We were healed because of his pain."

No need for Easter if life remained the same after His coming and departure; no need for Easter if you are still in bondage; no need for Easter if you are still in sin; no need for Easter if you are still broke; and there's absolutely no need for Easter if you've not made up your mind to live for Him, doing only what pleases Him.

Jesus did not come so that we can have two days off work! Jesus certainly didn't come so that we can update our profiles with pictures of some guy who they say looks like Him; Jesus did not come so that there would be events organized for our entertainment; no, He came for much more greater purposes!

It would be a waste if after today there's no real change in your life! I'm talking to you right now; if after today you don't make up your mind to walk in complete liberty and freedom; if after this Easter you're still unhappy, sick, broke, and sinning, then maybe Jesus should have just stayed back in Heaven! But it's time to take what's rightfully yours in Christ! It's time to say enough satan! It's time for you to truly live a life of victory and love! That's why Jesus came! That's why there's Easter! Hallelujah!

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THE SIMPLICITY OF CHRIST

Spirit & Life Devotional
Friday Morning, April 18
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

THE SIMPLICITY OF CHRIST

Matthew 23:15 ERV “It will be bad for you teachers of the law and you Pharisees! You are hypocrites. You travel across the seas and across different countries to find one person who will follow your ways. When you find that person, you make him worse than you are. And you are so bad that you belong in hell!"

I love Jesus so much and I will do anything for Him! He is my life; my love; my Lord; my everything and my all! Many years ago, I was happy to call myself His robot! I have given myself to Him completely; He can use me however He likes!

Jesus did not come to complicate our lives; neither did He come to make us worse than we were; not at all! He came that we might have life, that we might see and that we might be truly free!

Jesus is more than a wonderful story that we love to tell, He's alive! He was, He is, and He is to come! No one ever cared for us like Jesus! No one ever loved us like Jesus! No one ever forgave us like Jesus! No one ever healed us like Jesus! No one ever had compassion on us like Jesus! He's so big yet He condescended to men of low estate! He's a mighty God yet He calls us friends, His brothers and sisters! Hallelujah!

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WINNING BY THE POWER OF THE SPIRIT

Spirit & Life Devotional
Thursday Night, April 17
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

WINNING BY THE POWER OF THE SPIRIT

Judges 14:6 ERV "The Spirit of the Lord came on Samson with great power. He tore the lion apart with his bare hands. It seemed easy to him. It was as easy as tearing apart a young goat. But Samson did not tell his father or mother what he had done."

Oh my God! Did you just read that? Samson killed a lion, not with a spear, not with a sword, not with an arrow, but with his bare hands! He tore the lion apart, not with stress; easily, as if he was killing a goat! Wow!

When things are too difficult in your life, check, by what power are you functioning? By what wisdom are you operating? By what are you trying to achieve your goals? By himself, Samson could never have done that, but he did by the power of the Holy Spirit. Hallelujah!

The Holy Spirit causes a man to do extraordinary things! The Holy Spirit doesn't produce average results; He is an excellent Spirit and He does things that cause men to marvel! We must learn not to let our physical senses interfere with the leadings of the Spirit; whatever He leads to do, just do it! That's how to win and succeed without stress.

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A READY PEOPLE

Spirit & Life Devotional
Thursday Morning, April 17
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

A READY PEOPLE

2 Peter 3:11 ERV "Everything will be destroyed in this way. So what kind of people should you be? Your lives should be holy and devoted to God.

The multi million dollar businesses; the skyscrapers; the amazing wonders of the world; the superb innovations; all the beautiful places in the earth that we love to travel to for shopping and for holidays, will one day be destroyed by fire; including all our designer clothes and accessories! They will all become ashes; everything would come to an end.

We can choose not to believe it, or to think that it wouldn't happen in our lifetimes; we can believe anything we want, we can even believe that we would get married and have children before the end comes; but our believes are incapable of preventing His return and the end of all things.

According to the Scriptures, everyone would be surprised by His Second Coming. Our best bet therefore is to be ready at all times. We are to be holy and devoted to God every single moment of our lives; ready for His return.

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RULING OVER YOUR OPPRESSORS

Spirit & Life Devotional
Wednesday Night, April 16
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

RULING OVER YOUR OPPRESSORS

Isaiah 14:2 NKJV "Then people will take them and bring them to their place, and the house of Israel will possess them for servants and maids in the land of the Lord; they will take them captive whose captives they were, and rule over their oppressors."

God's word is yes and amen. Whenever God speaks we can be very sure that they will come to pass because He never lies and He monitors all His words to ensure that they all come to pass. Hallelujah!

In the Scripture above, the word of God says that we will take captive those to whom we were captives, and that we will rule over our oppressors! Now, oppressors can be anything; debt, sickness, poverty, family problems, demonic oppressions, depression, etc. Not only are you being set free right now, you will begin to exercise authority over them in the name of Jesus!

Open your mouth now and begin to declare your liberty. When God speaks it is so that we might proclaim with boldness what He has said. Total victory is yours in Jesus name. Amen.

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HE WORKS IN DIFFERENT WAYS

Spirit & Life Devotional
Wednesday Morning, April 16
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

HE WORKS IN DIFFERENT WAYS

1 Corinthians 12:6 NLT "God works in different ways, but it is the same God who does the work in all of us."

God is very creative. He can achieve the same purpose via diverse means; He can get to the same destination through different routes; He has countless strategies; unlimited methods; and unimaginable ideas, hardly doing the same thing the same way.

How God blesses Mr. A doesn't have to be the same way He would bless Mr. B. Just as we are different so different are our experiences with God. That He did something for me almost immediately doesn't mean He's bound to do same for you at the same time; that Moses parted the Red Sea with a rod didn't mean all seas must be parted with rods, Elisha used a mantle, and Jesus, not needing to part any sea, majestically walked on them! Hallelujah!

Don't judge God by the experiences of your neighbours; their testimonies may be great, but God might want to give you something a lot better! And that's why we must learn to follow God by ourselves rather than by how He leads other people! Being a copy cat isn't good because a copy can never be better than the original!

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KEEP YOUR GATES

Spirit & Life Devotional
Tuesday Night, April 15
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

KEEP YOUR GATES

1 Chronicles 9:28 NLT "Some of the gatekeepers were assigned to care for the various articles used in worship. They checked them in and out to avoid any loss."

A gatekeeper is one that is in charge of passage through a gate; they are the people we like to call security men. We tend to look down on them not realizing how important their function is to us all. Apart from controlling who or what passes through the gate, gatekeepers have a responsibility of monitoring and overseeing the activities of others.

Every one of us is a gatekeeper. There's a gate to your life, to your wife, to your children, your family, job, business, ministry, education, relationships, etc and you are responsible for those gates! Many people have suffered huge losses because they haven't been paying serious attention to who and what have been passing through their gates; they've lost their children to Satan and several other things.

Tonight, determine to be a better gatekeeper. Don't leave things to chance or to destiny; prayerfully and wisely monitor every gate in your life; don't be too busy to monitor your gates; if you do, you would suffer losses. That's not our portion in Jesus name.

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OVERCOMING YOUR LIMITATIONS

Spirit & Life Devotional
Tuesday Morning, April 15
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

OVERCOMING YOUR LIMITATIONS

Luke 19:3-4 NLT "He tried to get a look at Jesus, but he was too short to see over the crowd. So he ran ahead and climbed a sycamore-fig tree beside the road, for Jesus was going to pass that way."

Zacchaeus was a very short man who wanted to see Jesus as He passed by; but being short and conscious of his predicament, instead of going home or getting lost in the crowd, he did the unthinkable; though rich, he ran ahead and climbed a tree thus overcoming his limitation.

We are all limited in certain ways; some of us don't have enough education; others have poor health; for some others it's a lack of certain important connections and contacts; or a lack of funds that are desperately needed.

You've got to be like Zacchaeus. I like the fact that Zacchaeus was a visionary who could see farther than other men; he foresaw that Jesus would pass through that way and he used the help of a tree. So don't give up simply because you have limitations; get help! There are trees in life that you can climb to achieve your aim; find your tree and climb it.

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YOU'RE GOD'S PRIDE AND JOY

Spirit & Life Devotional
Monday Night, April 14
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

YOU'RE GOD'S PRIDE AND JOY

Jeremiah 13:11 NLT "As a loincloth clings to a man’s waist, so I created Judah and Israel to cling to me, says the lord . They were to be my people, my pride, my glory—an honor to my name. But they would not listen to me."

When God created Adam and Eve He used to come down from heaven in the evenings just to be with them! Wow! That's awesome! God coming down from heaven to the earth just to be with man!

I need you to understand that God isn't angry with you as you think, neither is He only interested in punishing you and your generations unborn; not at all! When He created you, He had hopes of a wonderful relationship with you!

Born again? You're God's pride and joy! When God looks at you He's so happy! He's proud of you and He wants to display you to the entire world of men and spirits! That's why Jesus came! To bring us back into sweet fellowship with our Father. Hallelujah!

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PREACHING THE GOSPEL

Spirit & Life Devotional
Monday Morning, April 14
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

PREACHING THE GOSPEL

Luke 9:1-2 NKJV "Then He called His twelve disciples together and gave them power and authority over all demons, and to cure diseases. He sent them to preach the kingdom of God and to heal the sick."

This gospel that we seem to take for granted is the power of God unto salvation. In other words, God cannot save a man without the gospel! That was why Peter was sent to Cornelius and his household; to preach the gospel that got them saved.

Angels will not preach the gospel because they've not been commissioned to preach it, it's our responsibility; meaning that souls will perish if we don't share the gospel with them. Your colleagues, friends and relations will go to hell if you don't preach the gospel to them and their blood will be on your head!

If you have received the Holy Spirit you have received divine power, the very same power that Jesus gave to His disciples. Don't be shy to pray for the sick as you minister the gospel, and don't doubt that your prayers won't work, as you pray the Holy Spirit will make them whole in Jesus' name. Amen.

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A REWARDING LIFE

Spirit & Life Devotional
Sunday Night, April 13
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

A REWARDING LIFE

Psalms 58:11 NLT "Then at last everyone will say, “There truly is a reward for those who live for God; surely there is a God who judges justly here on earth.”

There's nothing more rewarding than living for God, especially when you are working for Him. The Scripture above says that there's a reward for those who live for God. Hallelujah!

Living for God is not always fun; it's a life of sacrifice; a man said he'd follow Jesus and Jesus said to him, “Foxes have dens to live in, and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place even to lay his head.” Thank God that we have houses to live in; but we still have to make other kinds of sacrifices in order to follow Christ.

Nothing at all should prevent you from living for God and working for Him - nothing at all; not your job, not your business, nothing at all. Make living for God your most important task every day; from dawn to dusk, live for the Lord, it's a rewarding life!

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YOU WILL NOT BE PUT TO SHAME

Spirit & Life Devotional
Sunday Morning, April 13
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

YOU WILL NOT BE PUT TO SHAME

Romans 10:11 NKJV "For the Scripture says, “Whoever believes on Him will not be put to shame.”

I have never forgotten the prayer of David in Psalms 25:1-3: "To You, O Lord , I lift up my soul. O my God, I trust in You; Let me not be ashamed; Let not my enemies triumph over me. Indeed, let no one who waits on You be ashamed; Let those be ashamed who deal treacherously without cause."

Something was to happen to me one time, and I prayed using Isaiah 61:7, "Instead of your shame you  shall  have double honor." And I said, "O Lord, shame is not my portion!" And of course, the Lord intervened! Hallelujah!

I declare the word of God to you today; you will never be put to shame! I don't know who is bent on disgracing you or why, but because you believe in God, you will not be put to shame in the name of Jesus! Double honour is your portion! God will elevate you in the very presence of your foes! Give Him praise!

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YOU WILL PREVAIL

Spirit & Life Devotional
Saturday Night, April 12
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

YOU WILL PREVAIL

I Chronicles 5:2 NKJV "Yet Judah prevailed over his brothers, and from him came a ruler, although the birthright was Joseph’s"

Jacob, later named Israel, had twelve sons and a daughter. Not many people know about Dinah, Jacob's daughter. We'll talk about her some other time as God leads.

Judah was the fourth son of Jacob, but he prevailed over his other brothers and became the strongest and most powerful tribe in Israel.

I have a word for you tonight: it doesn't matter your position in your family; it doesn't matter when you joined your organisation or what your current position is; it also doesn't matter who started that particular business first, because you are connected to Jehovah, you will prevail!

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WAITING FOR CHRIST

Spirit & Life Devotional
Saturday Morning, April 12
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

WAITING FOR CHRIST

Hebrews 9:27-28 NKJV "And as it is appointed for men to die once, but after this the judgment, so Christ was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for Him He will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation."

We read in John 3:16 that God so loved the world and that He sent Jesus His Son to die for us so that whosoever believes in Him should not perish but have everlasting life. That was His first coming; He came as a sacrifice to bear the sins of the world.

Jesus is coming back again, very soon! But unlike His first coming, He's not coming to die for us; never again will He die for man: He's coming with salvation, to save us from this world and to take us to be with our Father forever! Hallelujah!

We've got to wait for Him. We don't know when He will return, but we are sure that He will return a second time to save us and to take us home! But we must be a glorious church by the time He returns, because according to Ephesians 5:27, He's coming for a glorious church, a holy people, without spot and wrinkle.

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PRESERVED FROM ALL EVIL

Spirit & Life Devotional
Friday Night, April 11
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

PRESERVED FROM ALL EVIL

Psalms 121:7 NKJV "The Lord shall preserve you from all evil; He shall preserve your soul."

I'm not always conscious of evil, the devil and his cohorts. But I've come to realize that it's the reality of a lot of people, including Christians. Maybe it's because of their backgrounds and the kinds of teachings they've been exposed to.

A lot of people live in perpetual fear, even fear of the unknown! Give some people gifts and they are immediately suspicious! That's not to say that evil isn't real or that we shouldn't be cautious and discerning; I'm only saying we should live with full assurance of God's protection and fulfilment of His promises.

Psalm 127 is full of promises of divine protection. Verse 7 says that the Lord will preserve us from all evil! Therefore it doesn't matter who stays up in order to do you evil tonight, it will never come to pass! No witch can touch you! No demon will oppress you! For God surrounds you: and He who keeps you neither slumbers nor sleeps! Hallelujah!

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MERCY, PEACE AND LOVE: MORE AND MORE

Spirit & Life Devotional
Friday Morning, April 11
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

MERCY, PEACE AND LOVE: MORE AND MORE

Jude 1:2 CEB "May you have more and more mercy, peace, and love."

The Contemporary English Version says, "I pray that God will greatly bless you with mercy, peace, and love!" And New English Translation says "May mercy, peace, and love be lavished on you!" Hallelujah!

Imagine a life of abundant mercy, peace and love; imagine how sweet life will be if God greatly blesses you with more and more of mercy, peace and love every day! Wow! That's your portion in Christ! Hallelujah!

Declare the following: today, I receive an abundance of mercy, peace and love; my heart is at peace; the love of God is shed abroad in my heart; trouble is far from me; and I experience love wherever I go. Today mercy triumphs over judgement in my life. I am blessed! Greatly blessed in Jesus' name! Amen!

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DON'T TELL YOUR DAD

Spirit & Life Devotional
Thursday Night, April 10
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

DON'T TELL YOUR DAD

I Samuel 14:1 NKJV "Now it happened one day that Jonathan the son of Saul said to the young man who bore his armor, “Come, let us go over to the Philistines’ garrison that is on the other side.” But he did not tell his father."

It's not every time you want to do something that you must tell someone else about it; sometimes you have to be quiet and keep it to yourself! Jonathan would never have achieved his aim if he discussed his plan with his dad.

Some of us would have been miles ahead of where we are now if we just acted on the dreams and visions that God placed in our hearts. But we told our friends, our colleagues and even our pastors, and they somehow managed to persuade us to discontinue.

Sometimes no matter how good enough the reasons are, you just have to make a move! Paul said, "But when it pleased God, who separated me from my mother’s womb and called me through His grace, to reveal His Son in me, that I might preach Him among the Gentiles, I did not immediately confer with flesh and blood, nor did I go up to Jerusalem to those who  were apostles before me; but I went to Arabia, and returned again to Damascus." Galatians 1:15-17

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OVERCOMING THE LOVE OF MONEY

Spirit & Life Devotional
Thursday Morning, April 10
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

OVERCOMING THE LOVE OF MONEY

2 Timothy 3:1-2 NET "But understand this, that in the last days difficult times will come.  For people will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money, boastful, arrogant, blasphemers, disobedient to parents, ungrateful, unholy,"

A lover of money can do anything, good or bad, to get money; and when they have money, they hold on to it as if their lives depend on it; they hoard money, they are misers and scrooges; they are also greedy and inconsiderate.

People who sacrifice relationships for money are lovers of money; they cheat, backstab friends and colleagues, leave their families and loved ones and even stay away from church in order to make or have more and more of money. Lovers of money are never happy without money. They have idolized money and put it first before any other thing in their lives.

Money is powerful, no doubt about that, and it's okay to have a lot of it, but the level of your desire for it, how you go about getting it and what you do with it matters. God can make you rich if you let Him; His blessing makes rich without sorrow! If we put Him first He will bless us tremendously. Finally, don't love money more than fellow men, at the end, relationships are more important.

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DON'T BE ANGRY

Spirit & Life Devotional
Wednesday Night, April 9
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

DON'T BE ANGRY

Job 5:2 NKJV "For wrath kills a foolish man, And envy slays a simple one."

According to reports, "Almost a third of people polled (32%) say they have a close friend or family member who has trouble controlling their anger. More than one in ten (12%) say that they have trouble controlling their own anger. More than one in four people (28%) say that they worry about how angry they sometimes feel. One in five of people (20%) say that they have ended a relationship or friendship with someone because of how they behaved when they were angry. 64% either strongly agree or agree that people in general are getting angrier."

Chances are that you are angry right now; maybe your anger has reduced, but you're upset and probably thinking of how best to deal with whoever got you angry. Please don't be angry!

You may want to argue that anger is an emotion like love; yes, but note that it is called a negative emotion while love is a positive emotion. Anger kills! Control it! People might fear you because of your anger, but you should be worried because you're hurting yourself. Ephesians 4:26-27 says “Be angry, and do not sin”: do not let the sun go down on your wrath, nor give place to the devil."

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THE TRIUMPH OF THE RIGHTEOUS

Spirit & Life Devotional
Wednesday Morning, April 9
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

THE TRIUMPH OF THE RIGHTEOUS

Nehemiah 4:15 NKJV "And it happened, when our enemies heard that it was known to us, and that God had brought their plot to nothing, that all of us returned to the wall, everyone to his work."

There are people who become angry at the success of others; they think it should have been them, or their children, or their preferred candidates; they think you are too young for that position, that you came from nowhere and took what was supposed to be theirs; then they begin to plot your downfall and how to unseat you. Hahaha!

In the Scripture above, it says that God brought the plot of the wicked ones to nothing! Hallelujah! Today, God is bringing the plots of all your haters to nothing in the name of Jesus!

Maybe you've been worried about what they are doing to you because they seem to be powerful and influential; they may even seem to be succeeding and you're considering quitting because of them; fear not! You will triumph over everyone of them and they will end up bowing down to you, for soon, they will realize that you are not alone. God is working on your behalf, victory is yours!

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KNOWING IF YOU'RE BORN AGAIN

Spirit & Life Devotional
Tuesday Night, April 8
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

KNOWING IF YOU'RE BORN AGAIN

John 3:7 NKJV "Do not marvel that I said to you, ‘You must be born again.’"

I'm surprised when someone doesn't know if they are born again or not; it's like a student not being sure if he or she is a student of a particular school! You say they are different: not so different because a person who's truly saved should be sure that he's saved!

The born again experience is as real as anything else. When a person is born again, he can tell with all assurance that he is saved. The Apostle, John, said, "Beloved, now we are children of God; and it has not yet been revealed what we shall be, but we know that when He is revealed, we shall be like Him, for we shall see Him as He is." He said, Now are we the children of God! Not tomorrow, now!

You know if you're born again by doing what needs to be done to be born again - confessing with your mouth the Lord Jesus, and believing with your heart that God raised Him from death - if you have done that then you are born again! Romans 8:16 says that "The Spirit Himself bears witness, along with our own spirits, to the fact that we are children of God." Hallelujah!

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DO THE NEEDFUL

Spirit & Life Devotional
Tuesday Morning, April 8
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

DO THE NEEDFUL

Ezra 10:4 NKJV "Arise, for this matter is your responsibility. We also are with you. Be of good courage, and do it.”

Either of these two things will happen if you don't do what you are supposed to do: it will wait for you or God will get someone else to do it. But if God has assigned a specific task to you, I encourage you to do it that you might be blessed.

Some people are saddled with certain responsibilities and they ignore it! That's not the attitude of a Christian. As believers, we must endeavour to do well whatever we have been asked to do. Ecclesiastes 9:10 says "Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there  is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going."

Inasmuch as it is good to delegate, you will only be robbing yourself of your blessings if you keep delegating to others what God has asked you to do yourself. Be bold, be strong, persist, and do whatever needs to be done when it needs to be done. God's grace is sufficient for you.

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GOD IS A REWARDER

Spirit & Life Devotional
Monday Night, April 7
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

GOD IS A REWARDER

Numbers 18:31 NKJV "You may eat it in any place, you and your households, for it is your reward for your work in the tabernacle of meeting."

There's a difference between rewards and salaries; salaries are fixed regular payments given by employers to employees, an employer is obligated to pay his employees salary. A reward on the other hand is something given in recognition of service done, effort or achievement. Rewards might not be fixed, but it is an honour done to someone.
Working for God rarely comes with salaries; not many choristers, ushers and instrumentalists get paid for what they do, despite their sleepless nights and many hours of rehearsals; sometimes what they do is very demanding and tiring. At such times it's possible to get discouraged and to wonder why you have to do so much.

To such people who labour night and day for God, I want you to know that you will definitely be rewarded for all you do for God with a perfect heart. Rewards may not be regular but they are guaranteed. Your reward may not come when you expect it, but it will surely come and it will be worth it. Keep on serving the Lord; serve the Lord with joy and gladness; don't quit! God is a Rewarder!

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LOVING YOUR NEIGHBOUR AS YOURSELF

Spirit & Life Devotional
Monday Morning, April 7
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

LOVING YOUR NEIGHBOUR AS YOURSELF

Romans 13:9 NKJV "For the commandments, “You shall not commit adultery,” “You shall not murder,” “You shall not steal,” “You shall not bear false witness,” “You shall not covet,” and if there is any other commandment, are all summed up in this saying, namely, “You shall love your neighbor as yourself.”

We can try forever to define love; well, love is of God and it determines what we do or do not do, first to ourselves and then to other people. As believers, we are not only instructed to love, we were also given God's nature of love. Hallelujah!

Jesus said, "Therefore, whatever you want men to do to you, do also to them, for this is the Law and the Prophets." (Matthew 7:12). It's called the Golden Rule. Permit me to rephrase it, "Whatever you would do to yourself, whether you have done it or not, do same to others."

We should never be selfish or afraid to express genuine love for other people. Love goes beyond not hurting people around you, it's about doing good to others whether they deserve it or not. You are encouraged today to love, not just as you love yourself, but as Christ loved us.

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Success comes as we meditate on the word DAY and NIGHT.

Beginning from tomorrow, Spirit & Life Devotional will be sent out twice daily.

God bless you!

A PASSION FOR HIS PRESENCE

Spirit & Life Devotional
Sunday, April 6
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

A PASSION FOR HIS PRESENCE

Psalms 27:4 NKJV "One thing I have desired of the Lord, That will I seek: That I may dwell in the house of the Lord All the days of my life, To behold the beauty of the Lord, And to inquire in His temple."

It's quite sad that all a number of people think about when they think about the church is money; how much offerings, tithes and seeds that is being made every Sunday; I feel so sorry for such people because they are robbing themselves of sweet fellowship and romance with the Holy Spirit.

When you go to church, you should be excited about being in His presence! When you are in church, that's not a time to think about anything else, but to express your love for the Lord and to pour out your heart to Him in prayer. How could I not take advantage of that opportunity?! I'm busy all week, so in His presence, I focus on Him alone!

Don't go to church because you love to attend the meetings after service or because you think it's a good time to meet with the pastor or anyone else, go for the Lord first! Be passionate for His glorious presence; forget about how important you are in society; ignore the fact that there are people around you; don't be a man before Him! Forget about yourself, concentrate on Him and worship Him!

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THE TRULY PERFECT MAN

Spirit & Life Devotional
Saturday, April 5
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

THE TRULY PERFECT MAN

Revelation 14:5 NKJV "And in their mouth was found no deceit, for they are without fault before the throne of God."

I've had a better understanding of the power of words in the past few weeks; words can both heal and destroy; friendships and marriages have been broken by words, opportunities have been lost because of words, even destinies have been affected by it. As believers, seeking to influence our world and get people closer to God, it's so important that we watch what comes out of our mouths.

It's amazing who God calls a perfect man. James 3:2 AMP says, "For we all often stumble and fall and offend in many things. And if anyone does not offend in speech [never says the wrong things], he is a fully developed character and a perfect man, able to control his whole body and to curb his entire nature." Wow!

Stop talking "anyhow", as we say. Spiritual and physical maturity is revealed, to a large extent, by how you use your mouth. Don't belittle people with your words, don't insult people either; be slow to speak, thinking carefully about what you intend to say! Aim to glorify God with your mouth, honour people with your words. Show that you're different by speaking differently! Pray: "Let my words and my thoughts be pleasing to you, Lord, because you are my mighty rock and my protector."

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WHY ARE YOU ANGRY?

Spirit & Life Devotional
Friday, April 4
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

WHY ARE YOU ANGRY?

Genesis 4:6 NKJV "So the Lord said to Cain, “Why are you angry? And why has your countenance fallen?"

The world is full of angry people; people are angry, irritated, frustrated, displeased and upset; they are angry with the government, angry with their colleagues, angry with their teachers, their families, their spouses and even with God! And the reasons for their anger varies, sometimes there's really no reason whatsoever!

But why are you really angry? You're angry with the government for not providing jobs; when exactly did the government become your provider? You're angry with your spouse because of the way he spoke to you; why don't you just let go? You're angry with your employer for the way they've been treating you: have you forgotten that God is always with you, causing all things to work together for your good?

God said to Cain, "Why are you angry?" He also asked Jonah, "Is it right for you to be angry?" (Jonah 4:4). Today I choose to be happy always! It matters no more what happens or doesn't happen, I may not be in control of external circumstances, but I am in control of myself! I choose to see from a different perspective; I choose to interpret events with the mind of Christ in me! Rather than be worried, I cast all my cares upon Jesus! Today I empty myself of anger; the Holy Spirit now has enough room in my heart! Hallelujah!

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DILIGENT TO THE END

Spirit & Life Devotional
Thursday, April 3
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

DILIGENT TO THE END

Hebrews 6:11-12 NKJV "And we desire that each one of you show the same diligence to the full assurance of hope until the end, that you do not become sluggish, but imitate those who through faith and patience inherit the promises."

Diligence is defined as "constant and earnest effort." It is also defined as "careful and persistent work or effort." Diligence is being relentless; it means that when you begin a thing, even if there are challenges and setbacks, even if there seems to be no immediate results, you don't give up until you achieve your goals and objectives. Praise God.

Faith and patience are required to inherit the promises of God. In other words, you can get anything God has in store for you; you can be whoever God has said you can be if you believe and are patient enough to receive it and to become it.

Don't give up now! It's not time to quit! Don't be worried about getting older or about time passing by; you will inherit your promises just in time. Keep on believing God for your dreams to come to pass, keep believing for your heart's desires; God is not man His words must surely come to pass! Only be diligent till the end, wait with the right attitude.

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POWER FOR SERVICE

Spirit & Life Devotional
Wednesday, April 2
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

POWER FOR SERVICE

Micah 3:8 CEB "But me! I am filled with power, with the spirit of the Lord, with justice and might, to declare to Jacob his wrongdoing and to Israel his sin!"

You cannot serve God effectively without the power of the Spirit. When God sends a man on an errand, any errand at all, the first thing He does is to enable the man to fulfil that assignment. Even if it is to carry chairs from point A to B, there's grace for it. The seven that were chosen to serve tables in Acts 5 were filled with the Spirit.

I'm impressed by how much knowledge you have; thank God for your vast experience, I'm happy that you worked so hard to earn your degrees and have become an expert in that field; but sir, until you have been endued with power from on high, you aren't at all fit for service!

And it is not a one time experience! We need to be constantly filled with the Spirit. It's just like a rechargeable battery that has to be recharged from time to time: every day, as we fellowship with Him in prayer and the study of the word, we receive fresh grace and new strength to do all that we have been commissioned to do.

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A GOOD TESTIMONY

Spirit & Life Devotional
Tuesday, April 1
Chinaemerem Joshua Ibezim

A GOOD TESTIMONY

III John 1:12 NKJV "Demetrius has a good testimony from all, and from the truth itself. And we also bear witness, and you know that our testimony is true."

Many Christians today seem to care less about what other people think about them. There seems to be so much focus on "self" today; there's seems to be an unhealthy desire to live as we please, not minding how others are affected by our actions and attitudes; we don't want to be "people pleasers".

But we are living epistles! Christianity is among other things a call to witness. We are cities upon hills that cannot be hidden. Many men cannot preach the gospel today, not because they are dumb or handicap, but because their lives are nothing to write home about - because they have lived their entire lives pleasing only themselves - dressing as they please, talking as they please, behaving as they like!

Apostle Paul wrote to the Corinthians, "We care about doing the right thing, not only in the Lord’s eyes but also in the eyes of other people." 2 Corinthians 8:21 CEB. They had to care about the perceptions of others not because they were hypocrites, but because they wanted to have a good testimony in order that nothing would hinder the furtherance of the gospel they were ordained to preach.

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