A Production of Deeper Life Bible Church c/o DLBC Box 278, West Bridgewater MA 02379 Email: ichoosetobeholy@dclm.

org Website: www.ichoosetobeholy.org www.deeperlifetoday.net 2013

ABOUT PASTOR W.F. KUMUYI

Pastor (Dr.) William Folorunso Kumuyi, previously a professor of mathematics at the University of Lagos, is the founding pastor of the Deeper Life Bible Church and General Superintendent of Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Worldwide. The Church with its headquarters in Lagos ocially began on November 7, 1982 with a simple message: Jesus transforms lives - bringing not only healing but a complete and fully formed Christian character. By 1988, the Conference of Pentecostal and Evangelical Churches worldwide recognized Deeper Life Bible Church as the single largest church in Africa, and the third largest single congregation in the world. The phenomenal growth of the church tends to overshadow its small beginning. With 15 adult members in 1973, Kumuyi began an interdenominational weekly Bible study in Lagos. By 1975, this edgling group quickly grew to 1500 people who assembled faithfully every Monday to hear the systematic, expository and rich teaching of the scriptures with practical application that is immediately helpful and relevant to listeners. Less than a decade later, the Bible Study group became what is now the Deeper Life Bible Church and grew to 350,000 members at the Lagos headquarters church with mission work in 42 countries of the world. The church has since sustained an unprecedented growth trajectory leading to worldwide membership strength in the millions. Pastor Kumuyi, from the beginning of his ministry, has been blessed with divine success because of his commitment to teaching sound doctrine, a stellar and pristine character, unparalleled commitment to leadership development and divine giftedness. A humble and outstanding teacher and preacher, Pastor Kumuyi exemplies servant leadership. He commits himself tirelessly and selessly to achieve divinely ordained goals. He has a colossal grasp of the scriptures coupled with uncanny ability to dissect scriptural truths.

Preaching between two worlds, bridging the context and the content of the biblical text to meet the realities and the needs of present day led many listeners to conclude that he teaches the Bible as if he was there when it was written. The Bible serves as the proof text for his teaching and preaching. With a thematic approach, he gives a wide range of Bible passages supporting, clarifying and expanding his main point. A typical Kumuyi teaching is a beauty to behold. He brightens and deepens delivery with laborious scholarship and stylistic deployment of a vast range of gurative, alliterative devices. Kumuyis message is music to the ears and balm to the spirit. It comes across with crystal clarity free from the din and distractions of eeting hysterics and unnecessary drama. It is not uncommon to see on a typical Sunday service, princes, paupers, professors and priests sit side by side reaching for the cross and surrendering to the Lord in response to a heart-rending sermon. This emphasis on the primacy of preaching and the exaltation of the Word is one of Kumuyis great legacies to the body of Christ. Much of the churchs cohesion and shared sense of community have been driven by the inspiring and exemplary leadership of Pastor Kumuyi. His infectious passion for evangelism is undiminished. He is passionate about leadership training and equipping pastors, teachers, evangelists and Christian workers. As his congregation blossomed throughout Africa, the Deeper Christian Life Ministry has also extended its missionary exploits to Western Europe, Russia, Asia, India and North America. Kumuyi credits God for the success recorded so far by the church: The bottom line is that God in His own wisdom and power raised up the church and has given us divine support. The only reason Deeper Life has grown is because God Himself has given the growth.

1st January

SING, O BARREN
Sing, O barren, thou that didst not bear; break forth into singing, and cry aloud, thou that didst not travail with child: for more are the children of the desolate than the children of the married wife, saith the LORD.(Isaiah 54:1) A barren person is someone who has no child. And as you probably know, someone who has no child of his/her own is possibly going to be unhappy. Barren people are not likely to wish to sing. Yet they are the people that the Lord told Isaiah to instruct to sing. It is a command really. Sing, O barren. Sing even when you dont feel like singing and you actually want to cry. No, dont cry, instead sing. He then went ahead to give the reason why the barren should sing. He said that the children of the desolate (barren or lonely people) are more than those of the married. In other words, no one is really barren before God. The desolate too has many children, nay, more children than those who are married. Everybody is fruitful! This is the verdict of God and you cannot do anything about it. The challenge before us then is clear. God says we are fruitful. We think we are barren. Who is right? God, of course! You got the message? Okay how many children did Jesus have physically? Are you His child? You see, more are the children of the desolate . You are one of those who will want to say I am a child of God. You are, indeed, if you have repented of your sins and given your life to Jesus. So sing, if you are a soul winner. Sing, if you are laboring for the Lord. Sing, if you are a Christian worker in your church or fellowship. Sing, if you share tracts with people on your streets or with your classmates. Have you not read the prophetic word of the Psalmist: He that goeth forth with weeping shall doubtless come again with rejoicing! Sing, O barren, God has not condemned you at all.
Challenge: I believe what God says about me more than what people say about me. Prayer: Dear Lord, create in me a new heart to serve you this year

and do a new thing in my life.

2nd January

LOOKING FORWARD
Say not thou, what is the cause that the former days were better than these? For thou dost not enquire wisely concerning this (Ecclesiastes 7:10).

Gods message of hope to you today is that you look up to a bright future. You can only do this successfully if look away from your past failures, mistakes, inadequacies and problems. David McNally said, Your past cannot be changed, but you can change your tomorrow by your actions today. Do not waste your precious time of today that can be protably utilized for purposeful activities to think on the unfavorable occurrences of yesterday that nothing can change. Remember, yesterday is an expired and stale check, and it is currently not worthwhile holding and examining it. What should be your major preoccupations include reading your text books, revision of your notes, attending to your home assignments and proper preparation for your internal and external examinations. Learn to look away from problems and obstacles on your way. Lift up your eyes unto God and look up to a future full of great achievement. Look forward, for that is where your life lays. Failure of yesterday should not be a string to tie you down from moving forward.
Challenge: There is always a better future for the person who looks forward with optimism. Prayer: Help me Heavenly Father to always look up to you as I move

forward to success.

3rd January

IT IS BETTER TO TRUST GOD

It is better to trust in the LORD than to put confidence in man. (Psalms 118:8)

It is always better to trust God in whatever situation you nd yourself. It is better because it is wiser. God is the Creator and the maker of us all. He knows more and can do more. He has more resources than any human being, dead or alive. To trust Him then is obviously a very wise decision. It is also better to trust God because it is safer. There is no risk in trusting God. He will not leak out your secret or share a costly joke about a matter that you have committed to Him in prayers. He knows your needs and He will not put you to shame. Furthermore, it is better to trust God rather than man because to do so is quicker. Right now, where you are, you can communicate with God without any geographical barrier. You need not travel anywhere to call Him. You dont have to wait for an hour or two. Access is always there and all you need to do is open your mouth and talk and He will listen. Finally, it is better to trust the Lord because it is cheaper. It is a better to trust God than to trust man. Man is so limited in time and space, and the person you think might be able to help you may actually turn out to be a liability. This is why the Bible says Give us help from trouble: for vain is the help of man (Psalms 108:12)..
Challenge: To trust God more is to trust man less. Prayer: Please help me Lord to trust you and have condence in you in all I do.

4th January

GROWING THROUGH STRUGGLE

So, I prophesied as I was commanded: and as I prophesied, there was a noise, and behold a shaking, and the bones came together, bone to his bone (Ezekiel 37:7).

It is often said that life is a struggle. Gods plan is for people to live and grow, but there are many opposing forces; therefore, there is need for struggle. Nature teaches this. Plants in the forest struggle for sunshine. Although the fruits are on the trees for the birds, they need to struggle to get there in order to be fed! Indeed, man that is born of woman is of few days, and full of trouble. Apart from struggling to meet daily needs, there is struggle against sin, there is struggle against evil and workers of evil, there is struggle against forces of darkness. However, it is this daily struggle that leads to growth! Struggle toughens us and prepares us for the journey of life. Imagine it; a seed planted will have to struggle with the soil in order to shoot out its rst blade. It was Gods will for the bones in our passage to come together. Yet for that to happen there had to be a struggle represented by a noise and shaking! It was not easy, but necessary. Here is where many people (including youths) miss it in life. They do not want to struggle, but there is no growth without struggle. Those who fail to struggle will surrender to circumstances, those who surrender to circumstances will surely be overwhelmed. It is cowardice to grumble and complain about circumstances. Hear Gods call and arise, struggle, but do it legitimately. Remember, the fruit drops only on the palms of the hand if they are opened and stretched out. Great achievement comes out of a constant struggle, a ceaseless battle to bring success from unfriendly surroundings and circumstances.
Challenge: I will continue to advance no matter what. Prayer: Dear Father, give me the strength and courage in the battles

of life.

5th January

ASK MORE, GET MORE

And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living. (Luke 15:12).

The story of the prodigal son is a story of wasted opportunities. The boy was blessed with a giving and supportive parent but it was a shame that he wasted all of the resources committed into his hand. Yet, we should not be so carried away by the negative that we refuse to see the positive lessons from the life of the prodigal son. In simple terms, the prodigal son asked and he received. When he came to his senses, he asked for more still and the father still granted him his request. Today, do not be like the elder son who did not ask the father anything. Do you notice that although he lived in the midst of plenty he actually did not benet much from the abundance around him? He did not get because he did not ask. You must ask from the Father. The more you ask, the more you get. Consider these scriptures: Ye lust, and have not: ye kill, and desire to have, and cannot obtain: ye ght and war, yet ye have not, because ye ask not. (James 4:2) Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. (John 16:24) And this And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall nd; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh ndeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened. If a son shall ask bread of any of you that is a father, will he give him a stone? or if he ask a sh, will he for a sh give him a serpent? Or if he shall ask an egg, will he oer him a scorpion? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children: how much more shall your heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to them that ask him? (Luke 11:9-13)
Challenge: To have more, ask for more. Prayer: Thank You Lord for the opportunity to ask and receive from you. 9

6th January

CONFESSION OF THE CONFIDENT

I will say of the LORD, He is my refuge and my fortress: my God; in Him will I trust (Psalms 91:2).

Oh what a beautiful piece of an organ music said an excited girl. It was played through the black and white keys of the organ, replied her friend. This is really true. Life is full of contrasting experiences. Even the human race is made up of the white and the black. So then, there is a time to plant with its attendant toils and tears. But there is also a time for harvest that brings happiness. (Psalms 126:5-6). Human history is made up of times of war and troubles, as well as times of peace, harmony and progress. It is usual for man to have a taste of these pleasures and pains of life. Joseph suered hatred in the hands of his brethren but God protected him from harm. He later became the governor of Egypt. David was hunted by Saul the king; he faced many perils in the wilderness. But God kept him until he became a great king over God's people. Whatever trouble, tribulations or problems you may face in life, always remember that God is our refuge, and strength, a very present help in trouble (Psalms 46:1) David says of the Lord: He is my refuge and fortress: my God; in Him will I trust though the earth be removed, and though the mountains be carried into the midst of the sea; though the waters thereof roar and be troubled, though the mountains shake with the swelling thereof. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou are with me (Psalms 91:2, 46:2-3; 23:4). You have no cause for alarm; the Great Shepherd of Israel is your refuge and fortress.
Challenge: Are you inside the strong tower of the Lord? Enter in Prayer: Please, be my refuge and fortress henceforth, oh Lord.

today.

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7th January

WHEN GOD SUPPORTS THE ENEMY

And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God: which he carried into the land of Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the vessels into the treasure house of his god. (Daniel 1:2)

This day, God will not allow you to play into the hands of your enemies. Every plan and program of the enemy over your success and achievement in life will be frustrated by God Almighty. But we need to know that God will not support us if we do not live right. That is what King Jehoiakim of Judah discovered when Nebuchadnezzar besieged his city. He must have prayed and sought the face of God but it was already too late. God did not support him. Instead, the Bible says God supported Nebuchadnezzar his enemy. It was God Almighty who gave Jehoiakim, King of Judah into the hands of the Babylonians. Ordinarily, God will always support His children. But when His children disobey His commands and mock His word, God sometimes allows enemies to control them to teach them (His children) a lesson or two. That is what happened in the case of Jehoiakim. God backed his overthrow and captivity and the nation suered as a result. Beware how you treat God today. Be careful how you handle His word. If you say you are a child of God, live like one. Otherwise you too like Jehoiakim could be doing what would make God to turn against you.
Challenge: When you make God your friend, you have the best of

friends.

Prayer: Dear Father, please be my supporter today.

11

8th January

THE KINGS SEED

And the king spake unto Ashpenaz the master of his eunuchs, that he should bring certain of the children of Israel, and of the king's seed, and of the princes. (Daniel 1:3).

Even in captivity, a king's seed is still precious. Here we see how Nebuchadnezzar sent his ocers to identify the king's seed among the thousands of captive youths brought to Babylon as slaves. You see, there is something about a king's seed that slavery can never undermine. Now what is so special about king's seeds? One, their birth. They were born into royal family. They may not have any hand in how they were born but where they were born surely shaped their lives. Are you also in that sense, born into the heavenly royal family? Are you born again? Two, their grooming. Royal kids learn a lot of etiquette. There is a particular way to be disciplined concerning what to wear, what to do, norms and practices, etc. For example, they cannot eat anywhere or behave anyhow. The same is applicable to the Christian. If you are a true child of God, then you know that all things are lawful for you, but not all things are expedient. Three, their experience. A king's seed brought up in the palace is used to some luxury. They are not easily carried away by auence of others. As a king's seed, you have all the riches of heaven at your disposal. You must not allow the prosperity of others to make you do what you ordinarily would not do. Thank God, you are a king's seed. I pray that you will never lose your identity.
Challenge: You were born to reign. Prayer: Help me Lord to live worthy of Your favor bestowed unto me on the cross of Calvary.

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9th January

ACHIEVEMENT AT EIGHTY
And Moses was fourscore years old, and Aaron fourscore and three years old, when they spake unto Pharaoh.(Exodus 7:7).

At eighty, Moses should have been a grandfather. As a young man he grew up in the palace. Things were pretty convenient then. He had all he wanted and much more. Life was fun and good. As Moses grew, he found life more confusing. He was living in auence but there were many other people who had little or nothing to feed on. Then his conscience started disturbing him until the day came when he got involved in a ght to defend the oppressed Jewish people. That ended his pleasure in the palace. He ran away to Midian and spent the next forty years of his life learning how to be gentle and focused. Now Moses is eighty and has just received a commission from the Lord God Almighty. He was to take a message to Pharaoh to let Israel go back to Canaan to serve the Lord. At eighty, Moses was just starting another assignment that would take him forty years to complete. Friend, why do you want to abandon your education because you had a little setback when you are not even twenty? If an octogenarian can begin a new project and pursue it to a glorious conclusion why do you want to give up so early in life? Is it because you failed, or had an accident or were cheated by others? Wake up friend! Eighty-yearold grandfathers and grandmothers are going back to school. You have no excuse for abandoning a good goal. Moses began again. You too should go and learn obedience before it becomes too late. Then when you are eighty you will still be an example in obedience and meekness. Remember: They go from strength to strength; every one of them in Zion appeareth before God. (Psalms 84:7)
Challenge: A fool at forty can still learn. Prayer: Help me Lord not to give up on life until I have done all You want me to do.

13

10th January

LIVING UNDER A SIEGE

And the Lord gave Jehoiakim king of Judah into his hand, with part of the vessels of the house of God: which he carried into the land of Shinar to the house of his god; and he brought the vessels into the treasure house of his god. (Daniel 1:2)

In the olden days kings go to war against other nations by laying siege against their cities. In those days, cities and town always have protective walls around them. When enemy nations attack a city they would surround such cities with their troops. A city under a siege would close its gates thereby making it impossible for the enemy to gain entrance. Generally, life is dicult in a city under a siege. One, you know there is war, and the enemy is just outside the gate. Two, you cannot go outside the gate. Everything that you need must have been obtained beforehand; otherwise you would have to learn how to live without those things. Three, when you are under a siege you learn to control your appetite. No one can predict how long a siege will last, therefore whatever food or water supply that is available must be rationed because there may not be a replacement. In summary, living under a siege calls for a lot of discipline. Being a Christian can sometimes be compared to living under a siege. The enemy is always around seeking to destroy our faith in Christ. He seeks to plunder our land to kill and to destroy. Apart from closing the gates of our life against him, we must live with great personal discipline and commitment. This is how a popular Christian hymn expressed it: Christian seek not yet repose, Hear thy guardian angel say. Thou art in the midst of foes; Watch and pray.
Challenge: Be prepared. Prayer: Give me grace Lord to live for You, though I am in the midst

of enemies.

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11th January

SWEET SWEAT
The desire accomplished is sweet to the (Proverbs 13:19)

Rest is said to be sweet after labor. But labor is unpleasant to the indolent but sweet to the diligent. The diligent is full of determination and works towards a set goal. He does not leave any stone unturned in his academic activities. He does not give in to sleeping, sluggishness, playfulness, talkativeness, truancy and lateness that can jeopardize his success. He is given to serious studying and reading toward his set goals for success. The diligent student is rigorous and rugged in prudently pursuing academic excellence. He does not mind the hardship or diculties that might face him in his bid to achieve his goals. He is determined to achieve his desire at all cost and by all legitimate means. This explains why he sweats while laboring relentlessly to hit his target. His sweat is sweet as it brings results. It is not unpleasant for him to toil and travail to reach the pinnacle of excellence. Dear friend, have you considered the essence of paying the price of success. Many young people of today love the life of ease and pleasure. However, you cannot live a life of ease and achieve success which is always the product of hard labor. Any student who wants to succeed must be ready to toil night and day with resolute determination to reach his goals. He must demonstrate level-headedness and condence in his pursuit of breakthrough in all his endeavors. That is the only way to weather the storms on the pathway to success and fulllment.
Challenge: Rest is sweet after labor. Prayer: Grant unto me the strength to pursue my goals.

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12th January

IN SEARCH OF NERDS
Children in whom was no blemish, but well favored, and skillful in all wisdom, and cunning in knowledge, and understanding science, and such as had ability in them to stand in the king's palace, and whom they might teach the learning and the tongue of the Chaldeans. (Daniel 1:4). He is an insignicant student who is ridiculed as being aected or boringly studious. Students call them dierent names all of them funny and uninviting. But whichever way you look at it, nerds are the type of students every parent, school and even nations want. In Babylon, Nebuchadnezzar looked for nerds to recruit into his school. They were the goal getters who were studious and focused enough to make him achieve his goal. Today, nerds may not be popular among other students but teachers love them. They work better, read more, study longer and are always representing their schools in one academic competition or the other. Friend, it matters not what names people call you or who appreciates or does not appreciate you among your colleagues. What should matter to you is how to be a dependable student who will give your parents and teachers joy. Such students are needed by the church and the nation today. Are you a nerd?
Challenge: Be not afraid of life. Believe that life is worth living, and

your belief will help create the factJames.

Prayer: Please help me Lord to please You and to be serious-minded

for your glory, anywhere I nd myself in Jesus name.

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13th January

IT SHALL NOT STAND

Thus saith the Lord GOD, It shall not stand, neither shall it come to pass. (Isaiah 7:7).

You are in for a big surprise today. God says you will outrun your enemies. He says He will not allow their evil plans against your life to succeed. Their plans will crumble. They shall not stand. In the passage above, God drew the attention of King Ahab to His desire to frustrate his enemies. God wanted him to take heed to be quiet. God did not want Ahaz to fear. He knew the enemies had planned against him and they were aiding each other to oppose Ahaz. In their confusion they forgot that God has the nal say! He has declared His stand against their conspiracy: It shall not stand! It shall not come to pass! Suppose you were there when Isaiah delivered that message from God to Ahaz, what do you think Ahaz would have done? He would have been happy! Go about today too doing what Ahaz would have done after he received the information. The message is also for you! God is speaking to you! He is saying satanic plans against your life will not stand today. It shall not come to pass. Satan has failed in his plans concerning you today. Child of God, rise up and walk. March over your enemy. Go north, south, east and west. The land is before you. March on to victory. Continue to conquer. The enemy's plan will not stand. No matter where it is planned, no matter who is their backer, no matter what their threats may be. God has declared: it shall not stand! Amen!
Challenge: If God be for us, who can be against us? Prayer: Lord, I believe. The enemies' plans against my life today shall not stand.

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14th January

TESTIMONY OF A GRATEFUL SOUL

I am not worthy of the least of all the mercies, and of all the truth, which thou hast shewed unto thy servant; for with my staff I passed over this Jordan; and now I am become two bands. (Genesis 32:10).

Grateful souls are not dicult to identity, as they talk, think and testify of the goodness of the Lord towards them; also it shows the condition of their heart. Look at Jacob in the above verse as he grovels before the throne of grace. See him talking to God in appreciation of all the goodness that the Lord had showered on Him. Initially, he was threatened when he heard that his brother Esau was coming with 400 men. He knew he could not match such a formidable force with his team of women and children. What would he do? He decided to go down memory lane and tell Him who brought him this far to take him farther still. As you leave your home this morning, can you see the favor of God in your life? Do you remember that you were really not worthy of all the mercies bestowed on you by this wonderful God? Remember that the Lord preserved your life and took care of you while the Labans of this world meant to do you harm. Thanks be to our gracious God for all He has done for you. The mercy of God is always upon us as His children, therefore there is nothing to worry about.
Challenge: To a grateful soul, the weather is always ne. Prayer: Thank You Father for Your love to me. I am grateful.

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15th January

FULL OF JOY
Thou has made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance (Act 2:28).

There is a clear distinction between a frowning face and a smiling face. When you frown at a person or an object, your facial muscles externally will express emotions of anger or anxiety or worry or fear or frustration and disappointment. Internally too, there will be biochemical transmission of stress hormones that are usually not good for your health. Similarly when you smile, your face expresses love, joy, happiness, aection and peace while internally your cells relax and are healthy. Health practitioners warn that people who wear frowning faces have the tendency of dying before their time. They also claim that over ninety percent of sicknesses are stressrelated. A frowning face is an expression of stress. A smiling face reects a good, peaceful and friendly countenance. It is healthier to smile as it is too stressful to frown. A smiling face will add beauty to your countenance and value to your life. Always wear a smiling face because its a mark of a heart that is full of gladness and gratitude. Some youths claim that it is natural for them to look tough and fearful. It is only thugs, hoodlums, cultists, vagabonds, miscreants and street boys that are known with frowning and dreadful outlook. As a Christian youth, your countenance must always be peace-loving and friendly. John Mason said, There is a face-lift you can perform yourself that is guaranteed to improve your appearance, it is called a SMILE which is a curve that you throw at someone else. Your world will look brighter from behind it. Cheer up today and wear a smiling face everywhere you go.
Challenge: A smiling face, guarantees favorable countenance. Prayer: Heavenly Father, grant unto me the grace to always wear a smiling face and joy within.

19

16th January

I AM NOT WORTHY
I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost, and with fire. (Matthew 3:11)

One wonders how you will feel if you discover that your neighbor is better than you. Will it make you sad and unhappy? Imagine the experience of John the Baptist, he was older than Jesus physically and he even started his preaching and water baptism ministry before Jesus. All of a sudden he started to talk about someone who is better than himself. Then he described himself as unworthy to bear the shoes of the coming one, and he continued saying good and wonderful things about the Lord Jesus Christ. His humility and submission to the will of God marks him out as a true prophet of God. Yes, one wonders how truly you will feel if you knew you were a messenger to prepare ground for another. Would it have been the same with you as it was with John? Would you be happy to tell others, about your class-mates doing well in their academics or your brother or sister in the Lord about their progress in ministry? You should not allow the success of others to give you sleepless nights, provided you are doing the best you can now. Always remember that God is greater than any one of us and no one is truly worthy of the kindness heaven has bestowed on him or her. Whatever we have is given to us by grace. Praise the Lord.
Challenge: Grace is the outward expression of the inward harmony

of the soul.

Prayer: Help me Lord to appreciate your blessings in the lives of

other people around me today.

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17th January

GIVE TODAY A CHANCE

To everything there is a season and a time to every purpose under the heaven. (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

There is a purpose for today in Gods own calendar. Do you know that? Precisely, that is why you are preserved and alive. Your duty is to discover that purpose and take steps to accomplish it. The purpose may be hidden in duties, challenges, diculties and such like. Therefore when any of these things come your way, do not grumble, murmur, shrink or falter. Remember, there is a purpose. The challenges of today will reveal your true character; the duties of today will reveal your true sense of responsibility; the diculties of the day will add to your experience. And do not forget that the school of experience never changes; it always gives its diplomas on the roughest grade of sand papers. Therefore give today a chance; a chance to perfect your life, your work, your thought and your future. As you start the day therefore, do not forget all things work together for good to them that love God. Always remember that God loves you and that he cares about your well-being.
Challenge: You squeeze oranges to get the best. Challenges and

diculties therefore are there to bring the best out of you.

Prayer: Lord, open my eyes to see the purpose of this day in my life.

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18th January

A PRIG OR A PRIEST
And he struck it into the pan, or kettle, or caldron, or pot; all that the flesh hook brought up the priest took for himself. So they did in Shiloh unto all the Israelites that came thither.(1 Samuel 2:14)

A prig is a person regarded as arrogant and annoying. That was exactly what the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas were. They were actually trained to be priests. They knew the law of God. They had lived in the temple all their lives. They knew what was right and what was wrong. Yet, when it came to obeying the rules and doing the right things the right way, they would rather use their privileged positions to get their will done. They rejected their high calling. They became prigs instead of priests. They turned Shylocks instead of being shepherds. In fact, they became oppressors instead of overseers. In the instance recorded above about Hophni and Phinehas, they were forcing their way to take oerings and sacrices brought to the temple. They wanted to eat out of them but would not wait for the appropriate time. They were not ready to be patient or obey rules and they were not polite to the people of God. They wanted food and they wanted it right now. Does that sound familiar to you? Could that be exactly what you do to your juniors in school and your younger ones at home? Are you arrogant and bullying? Do you listen to advice and instructions from others? God will help you to maintain your calling as a priest and not a prig. You must be a priest for God, and not a prig in Jesus name.
Challenge: You are a special project in the factory of God. You will turn out ne.

today.

Prayer: Help me O Lord to live to serve You well in all that I do

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19th January

OUR DIFFERENT GIFTS

For I would that all men were even as I myself. But every man hath his proper gift of God, one after this manner, and another after that. (I Corinthians 7:7).

The author of the above verse was Paul the Apostle. He wrote to correct some wrong practices among the Corinthian Church. Paul was a godly model in his life and conduct. He has the right to set himself up as example for us today. He wants us to be like him in selfdiscipline, focused life, perseverance and commitment to preaching the gospel. Even though he wants us to copy him he still expects us to be dierent in some areas. The area in which he expects dierences is in our talents and gifts. So what gifts do you have? What are the gifts of God that you have? Please take a pen now! Number seven good things that you enjoy doing very much. Have you listed them? Stop reading and list them! Okay. Now out of those things you have listed, how many of them did you discover you have been doing every day for the past three to seven days? List them in order of frequency. Now you know what you are also going to do today. So pray specically on those rst three and ask God to guide you into doing those things for His glory today.
Challenge: God has given much more than you will use. Prayer: Help me O Lord to identify and use my gifts for you today.

23

20th January

A DREAM TO MAKE YOU SMILE

And Pharaoh's cup was in my hand: and I took the grapes, and pressed them into Pharaoh's cup, and I gave the cup into Pharaoh's hand. (Genesis 40:11)

What a great God our heavenly Father is! See that butler of Pharaoh. The king had been angry with him and eventually locked him up in prison. Time kept moving and no one remembered him. Then one night he had a dream where he saw himself pressing grapes into Pharaoh's cup and giving same to the king. What a dream for a condemned prisoner to have! Although that was the desire of his heart but all he could see around him were prison walls. As a result he was confused, worried and troubled. Then came Joseph and he explained the meaning of the dream to him thereby raising his hopes and putting smiles on his face. Joseph helped him to know that God has not forgotten him. God gave him a dream to help him smile again. Are you also sad and unhappy because Pharaoh is angry with you? God will help you to smile again. He is thinking about you right there in the prison where you are. He knows what you are going through and He is able to send help. The most beautiful news of all is that He will not only give you a dream He will send a Joseph your way today to make you truly smile.
Challenge: When you say a situation or a person is hopeless, you are slamming the door in the face of God. Prayer: Today is my day of victory. I will smile in Jesus name.

24

21ST January

WASTE NOT, WANT NOT

He also that is slothful in his work is a brother to him that is a great waster (Proverbs 18:9)

Wastefulness is a consequence of carelessness and lack of prudence. When a person has no insight, he wastes time sitting down and doing nothing. He wastes his resources on things he could have managed properly. He wastes his substances that he could have preserved properly. He wastes his life, his youthful life and he suers in the future. Frugality is the opposite of wastefulness. Benjamin Franklin says, Frugality makes no expense but to do good to others or yourself; i.e. Waste nothing. God has blessed us with many things that we should learn to conserve. Such things include: (1) Time: Do not waste it. As others say; Time is money, your time is your life. You must not waste it. If you waste it now, you will be in want of it in the future. (2) Talent: God has given you at least one peculiar talent to distinguish you from others. Find it out, develop it, and use it for humanity and for God's glory. If you waste it now, you will give account of it to your creator someday. If you can sing well, join the choir. If you can talk much, join the prayer warriors or intercessors. If you like walking about, visit and encourage others. If you can write well, let your leaders know so that you can use your talent for God. (3) Treasure: This includes your money, materials, etc. God would not want you to be a waster of money, water, food, clothes, books, biro and whatever God has provided for you either through your parents or your own personal eorts. He that wastes will come to want in the nearest future. Remember the prodigal son! Therefore, to avoid want, waste not!
Challenge: Waste not and want not. Prayer: Lord, teach me to be frugal in the way I spend my resources.

25

22nd January

THE REASON WHY

And the king appointed them a daily provision of the king's meat, and of the wine which he drank: so nourishing them three years, that at the end thereof they might stand before the king. (Daniel 1:5)

The special diet that King Nebuchadnezzar organized for Daniel and other children in his special school was not for fun. All the treatment, the education and the opportunities given them were to prepare them forleadership. The purpose was to train adequate manpower for the king's service. It is quite possible for some students to forget this simple truth. But their forgetfulness will only create a situation whereby they become less qualied for the ultimate reason. Daniel and his comrades did not forget this purpose. As youths, you must not fail to remember why your parents sent you school. You too must know there is a reason why God gave you good health. There is a reason why your parents are spending so much on your education. You are not gifted for fun. You have been given all that you have so that you might be able to stand before the king. Since this is the essence of your living, it is important for you to do everything in your power to fulll this dream. Your life will not be a waste in Jesus name. By the grace of God you will fulll the reason for your existence
Challenge: I am made for honor. Prayer: Help me dear Lord to fulll my destiny today in Jesus name.

26

23rd January

AN EYE ON THE FUTURE

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

A furniture maker was commissioned by the local council to make a new elegant bench to be used in the court appearances of the local magistrate. The man began the design and construction of the seat. Days and weeks passed and the job was not delivered. Rather the furniture maker was found to stand back every morning, examine the nished work and commence yet another improvement on the bench. Eventually, one of the council ocials asked the fastidious furniture maker, Why are you paying so much peculiar attention to this bench? His reply was quite revealing, Because I intend to sit on it one day. And he eventually did, as the local magistrate. The lesson is that in carrying out your duties today keep an eye on the future. Clothe all your duties in so much diligence and classiness that when you meet the result in the future it would t you precisely. Remember, as you lay your bed, so you shall lie on it. If you lay your bed today with slothful ease you will lie on it tomorrow along with rotten dreams.
Challenge: Look well enough and you can see the future beside you Prayer: Deliver me from careless ease, plant diligence in my heart.

today.

27

24th January

DOUBLE TROUBLE FOR SATAN

Reward her even as she rewarded you, and double unto her double according to her works: in the cup which she hath filled fill to her double. (Revelation 18:6)

Child of God, there is hope for you. A day is coming, and you will be surprised how quickly it will come, when you will see the anger of God come on all those who have stood against your progress. Even, Satan, the enemy of your soul, knows that he has met his match in the Cross. Like the Babylon of old, the end will come to every form of unrighteousness and evil. It is you, the child of God that will laugh last in the end. The end of Satan will not be an ordinary end. The end of the evildoer will not just happen. God will double her trouble. All the evil that the enemy has perpetrated will be stopped with a mighty outburst of divine displeasure. As wicked as Satan was, a greater power will double her reward of evil. Note the multiple challenges that will come in her way: she would be rewarded as she rewarded you, double her trouble, double her works and ll her cup with double what she lled it with. Such a calamity of unimaginable proportion is awaiting Satan and his agents who today are laughing and thinking they are in charge of everything. They are ignorant individuals. You will not be part of this team willreceive God's judgment in Jesus name.
Challenge: You may juggle human laws, you may fool with human

courts, but there is a judgment to come, and from it there is no appeal - Giord.

Prayer: Lord, please save me from the wrath to come.

28

25th January

CHALLENGES, CONQUERORS AND CROWNS

Now therefore give me this mountain, whereby the Lord spake in that day (Joshua 14:12).

Have you ever seen champions? You must have seen or heard of some. These are people who accept challenges and with determination to overcome them. As you wake today, can you remember or think of any challenge ahead of you? What will you do with those challenges? Of course you must not run from them, but cheerfully accept them and be condent that God will see you through successfully. Remember, we climb higher by looking up, stretching up our hands to the next level and raising our foot one after the other. Every challenge brings with it the opportunity to advance and progress. You may have to learn new things, pray more, exercise more patience, and demonstrate more perseverance and commitment. But the acceptance of new challenges will never leave you the way it met you! It will make you better. Accepting challenges of the cross here on earth will qualify you for a crown in heaven. Therefore accept challenges. David accepted a challenge to confront Goliath. God proved His faithfulness to him and he became a hero! Accept the challenge to study hard and thoroughly, you will discover that it pays now and in the future! What specic challenge are you going to make up your mind to accept today? Make up your mind! God is with you.
Challenge: Challenges creates champions. Prayer: Lord, help me to realize the benets of challenges.

29

26th January

EXAMINATIONS!
But let a man examine himself, and so let him eat of that bread, and drink of that cup. (1 Corinthians 11:28) If students have their way, examinations would never come. Examinations should be as easy as reading novels, or singing in class or playing at break time. Contrary to our thinking, examination is real business. It means: E Excitement. Get excited about the opportunities that the examination is bringing your way. Examination is an opening for you to get promoted to the next class. X Xanadu. The word refers to an idyllic, beautiful place (usually imagined). You must dream of the success that will come your way, the honor you will receive and the good things daddy and mummy will say when you take your examination result home. A Attitude. You will face the reality of the challenge and adjust your program to accommodate the necessary changes you must make. You must create time to read. You must copy your notes and read them. Work on past questions etc. M Motivation. Motivate yourself to work. No cross no crown. Wear the cross now so you can wear the crown later. I Improvement. Improve everything about your study and work habits. Do not indulge yourself. Make no excuses. Work hard and improve your reading and study skills. N Neatness. You want to put things in order. You want to tidy up your appearances and check your work. A Ability. You are in school and you have not known everything that you ought to know. But you are working hard on your ability to get better. T Time consciousness. You are watching how you are spending your time. I Importunity. Never give up. Do not surrender. Keep on soldiering on. O Opportunity. This is the opportunity to prove to the whole world that you are better than before. N Necessity. That is what your success is all about. It is a necessity. You must pass, otherwise how will you ever face your parents? Challenge: Examination is for all but not all that are examined pass. Prayer: Help me Lord to prepare well and to pass my examinations in Jesus name. 30

27th January

SPECIAL PEOPLE, SPECIAL DIET

And the same John had his raiment of Camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins and his meat was locusts and wild honey (Matthew 3:4).

Special people do not eat anyhow. That explains why God restricted the Israelites to only certain types of food. They were not allowed to eat whatever they liked. They were special. Special people need special diet. That much we can see about John the Baptist. He was very special. As a true prophet of God who was sent to announce the coming of the Messiah, he had a unique ministry. He carried it out in a unique way. One of the unique ways peculiar to him was his diet. He fed on locust and honey. Now what kind of diet is this? Bible scholars tell us that eating of locusts was a diet common to many people in Palestine. Eating of it was permitted to Jews by God (Leviticus 11:22). Locusts are ying insects. They serve as good source of protein for man. Similarly Canaan was called the land that ows with milk and honey because of the abundance of honey. Honey is cheap natural food. It is so sweet and has a lot of medicinal uses. That John the Baptist fed on locust and honey is to say that he fed on simple natural food. Nothing was processed. Everything he ate was in its raw, natural state. That is how food should be eaten. The closer you are to the original state and condition of the food you eat, the better it will be for your health. That is why eating fruits is very good for you. Natural food retains its natural values. Now that you know, don't you think you have to eat a special diet too? Be wise on what you eat! Eat good quality food!
Challenge: Eat wisely for good health. Prayer: Help me O Lord to eat good food today.

31

28th January

YOUR COMING GLORY

Yet within three days shall Pharaoh lift up thine head, and restore thee unto thy place: and thou shalt deliver Pharaoh's cup into his hand, after the former manner when thou wast his butler. (Genesis 40:13).

It is very common for us to forget that the sun will shine again anytime that we are going through a time of darkness. Our problems might be because we are sick or we have a little setback in school. Most times the things that we say and the way we work make us glorify the devil by limiting the power of God to help us. Yet the message of the scripture is clear that God will never forget His own children and, no matter what, He will help us. Pharaoh's butler could have thought that he was never going to get out of the prison alive. We don't know what crime he committed that made them put him in prison. But the verse that we read above was the plan that God made for his freedom. What God did for Pharaoh's butler is coming your way because God cares for you. You too will be elevated. Whatever stigma presently surrounds you will be removed by the mighty power of God. The Lord God will make your life a blessing and you will be the next success story we are going to read about in Jesus name. It is your turn to shine, congratulations! Challenge: There is hope for you. Prayer: Lord I thank You for Your unlimited power to bless and transform your children. I am grateful for what You have purposed for me.

32

29th January

HONOR BEFORE ENEMY

Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. (Psalms 23:5).

The Christian has many enemies in the world. We are surrounded by enemies, both visible and invisible. David as a man knew what it meant to have enemies, because he had many. While alive, Saul made himself the greatest human enemy of David among the Israelites. The Philistines still saw David as enemy too and they behaved as such. But in spite of the presence of these enemies, no one was able to stop David from achieving the plan of God for His life. In fact, it was before Saul that the stars of David started to shine and he rose in inuence and prestige every day until Saul became a helpless idiot pursuing a man he would never catch over the hills or inside the caves. Women started singing about David on the streets and everybody knew a potential king was in the making. David's success was not limited to the home alone. In Gath and among other Philistinian cities, the fear of David was a common thing. They all remembered how he humiliated their champion Goliath in a face to face combat and so respected him all the days of his life. As you go out today, God will lift you up before your enemies, just like he did to David. You are destined for the throne and no one will kill you before your time. It is well with you in Jesus name. Challenge: Look up and not down; look forward and not backward; look out and not in; go, go, go. God will take care of you. Prayer: Guide me by Your power today Lord.

33

30th January

CUP OF SALVATION
I will take the cup of salvation, and call upon the name of the LORD. (Psalms 116:13)

It is common for thirsty people to put water in cups before they drink. And we normally serve our food in plates before we eat. The same thing goes for salvation. It is served in a cup. And that cup is Jesus. Only those who drink from the cup of Jesus can have the true salvation that assures of everlasting life with God. As with everything else in life, there are dierent kinds of cups that people use to oer salvation to people. There is the cup of morality. Another is the cup of religion. There are other cups called by dierent names: occultism, power, signs and wonders, miracles etc. Yet, if we want to have forgiveness from sin and receive pardon from God, the only way is through the blood of Jesus. No one else died for our sins. Only Jesus died and rose from the dead so that we can be free. No religious activity can be a substitute for repentance and genuine salvation. It is Jesus alone that oers true freedom from sin. How can you drink from this cup? It is easy. Just take the following steps! A Accept that you are a sinner and repent of your sins. B Believe on the Lord Jesus Christ as the Savior of the world and someone who has already died for your sins. C Confess your sins to Jesus and ask Him to come and forgive you. Confess Jesus as Lord and invite Him into your heart to be the Lord and Savior. Then leave your old life and turn a new leaf. D Depend on Him by praying to Him and reading your Bible every day.
Challenge: It does not spoil your happiness to confess your sin.

The unhappiness is in not making the confession. Spurgeon.

Prayer: Please forgive me of my sins Lord Jesus. Save me and give me victory over sins henceforth. 34

31st January

A CUP OF COLD WATER

And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward (Matthew 10:42.)

One hopes that today's verse for meditation will really bless you and encourage you. This is because we normally think of God's work as some big, big things that we must do. Yet look at the verse above. Who is speaking there? Jesus. You know when Jesus speaks, that is authority speaking. What is He saying? He is saying that the simple act of oering a cup of cold water to little ones will bring us reward. Is that true? Yes. Is it clear? Yes. Is it possible? Yes. Can we do it? Yes! Will we do it? That is the thing! The desire of the Lord for your life is that you should bloom where you are planted. Just around you is a brother or sister who needs a cup of cold water. Give it to him or her! It may be a task as simple as praying for or visiting a sick classmate or sharing knowledge with a brother or sister who has just joined your class. It could be giving someone a little assistance to complete an assignment or even sharing your lunch with someone who has nothing to eat. Whatever the task, small and unnoticed by others, you can do it. And when you do, Jesus will be happy and He will make sure that you do not lose your reward.
Challenge: Do good to all men, especially those of the household

of faith.

Prayer: Lord help me to give the best of my life to Your children.

35

1st February

GIVE ME TO DRINK
There cometh a woman of Samaria to draw water: Jesus saith unto her, Give me to drink. (John 4:7).

Jesus was on His way to Jerusalem and he stopped by a well to drink water. He saw the unnamed Samaritan woman and told her Give me to drink. He was thirsty and He wanted to quench His thirst. He asked for water to drink from the woman. What do you drink when you are thirsty? Why not just do what Jesus did and drink water when you are thirsty? You see, water is cheaper than many of the drinks that you presently use to quench your thirst. Water is readily available and is very good for your body. Not only that, water often acts as a purier for your blood such that the more water you drink, the better it is for your system. You will save a lot of money if you stick to drinking water alone. But more importantly, you will preserve your good health when you drink water only. Virtually all the carbonated drinks (such as soda, coke, sprite etc.) that you see contain a lot of sugar which is not really good for you. You really don't need the sugar in the drinks but that is exactly what they want you to drink. So remember when next you are thirsty, do what Jesus did. Ask for cool fresh water.
Challenge: Take good care of your health, because you will not always be young. Prayer: Help me Lord to be a wise student in all I do today.

36

2nd February

NOT MY WILL
"And he said, Abba, Father, all things are possible unto thee; take away this cup from me: nevertheless not what I will, but what thou wilt". (Mark 14:36).

You need to pray a special prayer today because there is an assignment for you to do. There is a task that God wants you to do and until you fail Him, God will not give the job out to another. The job will take you on a little trip to the garden of Gethsemane. And there you will see the Lord Jesus on His knees. You will see Him sweating and praying. Then you will move closer to hear His words. Look at Him and hear him pray. He, the Son of God is praying fervently and is saying not what I will, but the will of God alone. You too must pray the same prayer today. Get on your knees. Say it like Jesus said it. Father, I want to do Your will in all that I do today. My will is faulty and feeble but your will is perfect and pleasant. My will is selsh and self-centered but your will is good and glorious. My will is defective but your will is delightful. My will is weak and feeble but your will take me higher to the fulllment of your plan for me. Help me Lord to do Your will today, just as my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ did Your will on the cross of Calvary. Lord I thank you for answering my prayers. For I have prayed in Jesus name. Amen.
Challenge: When your will is God's will, you will have your will.

Spurgeon.

Prayer: Help me to do Your will today in Jesus name.

37

3rd February

HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD

And they made the plate of the holy crown of pure gold, and wrote upon it a writing, like to the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD. (Exodus 39:30)

Aaron was indeed a privileged man. God specially planned and designed a crown for him to wear all the days of his life. The crown was rare, incomparable and was made of pure gold. Beautiful as the crown was, Aaron was to have some words engraved on it. The words were not his but God decided that for him. The crown was to bear God's desire: HOLINESS UNTO THE LORD. Like Aaron, God has equally designed a holy crown for you. The crown ts your head so well. The design is divine and the craftsmanship eternal. It is a never fading crown and you are capable of wearing it anywhere you like. But note the inscription before you move out today. You cannot take a holiness crown on your head to anywhere you like. May you be counted worthy to wear this crown today in Jesus name. Read it again for it is right there! Holiness, Holiness, Holiness to the Lord! May you be a worthy wearer of this crown of gold today in Jesus name
Challenge: Without holiness no one shall see the Lord. Prayer: Make me worthy ambassador of Your name today O Lord in Jesus name.

38

4th February

BE PRESENTABLE
Then Pharaoh sent and called Joseph, and they brought him hastily out of the dungeon: and he shaved himself, and changed his raiment, and came in unto Pharaoh. (Genesis 41:14).

Both Joseph and the prison ocers knew that Joseph must not appear before Pharaoh in his prison clothes and with his beards. As a matter of urgency therefore, they took him aside, shaved his beard and changed his dress. Then they took him to meet the king. Every manufacturer knows the importance and signicance of packaging goods. It is common knowledge that the more attractive a product look, the more likely they are going to attract buyers. No one wants to spend his or her resources on ugly looking tools and utensils. Learn from that simple information and make sure you make yourself presentable as you dress to go out. Let your dresses be clean and put on appropriate shoes. Brush your teeth, take a good bath and dress moderately. Remember that ungodly and worldly dresses are not the kind of dresses that will attract you to the King of kings. Dress well and the king will be pleased to hear what you want to tell him.
Challenge: The way that you dress is the way that you will be Prayer: Please help me Lord to dress well as I come before You.

addressed.

39

5th February

IN SEARCH OF A WISE MAN

Now therefore let Pharaoh look out a man discreet and wise, and set him over the land of Egypt. (Genesis 41:33)

As you read this, there is still NEED for wise boys and girls who will meet the need of the hour. Will you be the person? Joseph rightly interpreted the coming abundance on the land of Egypt. He also knew by divine revelation that a time of scarcity would follow. And the impact of the famine was going to be such that the abundance of the rst seven years would not be remembered except we can nd a man who will save the surplus and use them in the years of scarcity. That was the need of the time and still the need for today. Yes, can we nd the man? Every family is looking for one. Every home is looking for the person. Every school needs one. Churches, nations and business organizations around the world are looking for boys and girls who know how to conserve fund and save for the rainy day. Will you be the one? You see, it is wisdom on your part never to spend all that you have. If you have been living such a life before, where you spend everything that you have, stop it. What you have will always go a longer way if you can use little now and keep the rest for the future. We pray that God will help you to become a wise spender in Jesus name.
Challenge: True wealth is measured not with what you earn but what you save. Prayer: Give me the grace O Lord, to be wise in how I spend money

today.

40

6th February

FOOD FOR ANGELS

And he took butter, and milk, and the calf which he had dressed, and set it before them; and he stood by them under the tree, and they did eat. (Genesis 18:8)

Abraham was a generous and hospitable man. He saw some strangers coming to his house, and decided to treat them well. So he went about making them comfortable. He did not know that the people for whom he was killing goats were actually angels. You can imagine how surprised he was to discover that the men were indeed angels and how happy he must have been to know he had taken good care of them. How beautiful will it be if you will also be one of the human agents that God will use to bless His angels all over your school and community today! Some angels of God in your school need water and food. Some need prayers and visitation. In fact some only need kind words of encouragement. Will you please provide food for the angels? You are in a better position to help them than Abraham was. He did not recognize the angels but you do. And you can imagine how happy he was when he discovered that his simple action became the source of preservation of Lot from destruction. Your good gesture too will go a long way in keeping many happy and fullled in the Lord.
Challenge: Blessed are the happiness makers: for they shall be positively talked about. Prayer: Help me to do what is right today even if nobody notices it.

41

7th February

UNCLE JERRY
Then took they Jeremiah, and cast him into the dungeon of Malchiah the son of Hammelech, that was in the court of the prison: and they let down Jeremiah with cords. And in the dungeon there was no water, but mire: so Jeremiah sunk in the mire. (Jeremiah 38:6)

Uncle Jerry was an old time Christian. His views were not popular and many kids would rather laugh at him than listen to his words of advice. As unpopular as he was, Uncle Jerry was an honest man. He did not hide the truth from anyone and he would speak against evil practices like examination malpractices, immorality and indecent dressing boldly. Not only did he condemn such actions, you can be sure you would never nd him participating in any such practices. Like Prophet Jeremiah of old, the world still hates Christians today. They do not only hate the true children of God, they equally hate their looks, their ways and even their words. Many times they will not like to hear anything that we say or write. Like they did to Jeremiah, they are simply putting us in the mire again. But remember this as you go out today, no mire can stop you from shining for Jesus. The mire of old did not stop Jeremiah. He did not die in the dungeon. He even outlasted the opposition. They may persecute you for telling the truth but they cannot stop you. No one will keep you from fullling your destiny in Jesus name.
Challenge: The way of this world is to praise dead saints and persecute living ones. Prayer: Give me the courage and wisdom I need today Lord so that the opposition of man will not hinder me from shining for you.

42

8th February

SHOUTING BACKSLIDERS
And when the ark of the covenant of the LORD came into the camp, all Israel shouted with a great shout, so that the earth rang again. (1 Samuel 4:5)

Israel has just lost a battle with the Philistines and the elders got together to think of a way out. Let's go get the ark. Let's take it to battle with us. Its presence will work in our favor. Yes, I agree. Let Hophni and Phinehas bring the ark. We will wait for them to come before we resume the battle. So everybody agreed and the priests moved the ark to the battle front. The presence of the ark was like tonic. The Israelites became condent of triumphing over their enemies. They felt refreshed and shouted so much the Philistines heard them and wondered what was happening in their camp. When they knew what happened they rallied themselves together to face the Israelites. But the Israelites could care less. The ark had come, victory was sure. In the meantime, nobody remembered Samuel's message. The backslidden priests were still ministering near the ark. The glory of God had departed from the Israelites, but the noise is still continuing. The presence and the power of God had left them. And even though the favor of the Lord was no longer on the people, and they were destined for defeat, the people are still shouting. Till today, backsliders are still shouting even when they are on their way to hell! May you never be a backslider and if you are one repent and come back to Jesus today before it would be too late.
Challenge: Inbred corruption is the worst corruption. Prayer: Open my eyes O Lord that I may see myself as You see me.

43

9th February

ABSALOM, THE KIDNAPPER

And with Absalom went two hundred men out of Jerusalem, that were called; and they went in their simplicity, and they knew not anything. (2 Samuel 15:11) Absalom, the kidnapper is someone who unlawfully seizes and detains a victim (usually for ransom). They are very many today and one needs the divine intervention and wisdom of God to escape from them. Look at what Absalom did. He planned a coup against his father and he needed men to ght for him. So he lured them to follow him to Hebron without disclosing his wicked intention. By the time he told them his mission, it was impossible for those people to return home. Modern day kidnappers use the same method with young people. Usually they lure kids and other victims with money, sweets, biscuits or outright deception, and false promises. They always start with a friendly disposition. Then they will oer something in exchange for running an errand for them or asked to be followed to the car for something. Before one knows what is happening they would have bundled one into a waiting vehicle and head for a remote jungle or location. If you want to escape from the clutches of kidnappers like Absalom, then please always observe the following rules;

While travelling or going to school on your own, always board vehicles from approved parks and bus stops.

Do not accept free gifts, food or money from strangers. Do not allow people you do not know to give you a lift.

Check the faces of passengers in a commercial vehicle before you enter. If their faces look harsh and too tough do not board such a vehicle.
Avoid travelling in the night.

Pray every day before you leave your house and when you board any vehicle, pray immediately.
Always keep your parents, teachers or guardians adequately informed of your movements.

While in the church with your parents do not follow anyone outside the church premises.
We pray that the Lord will keep you and protect you from kidnappers in Jesus name. Amen. Challenge: He who watches Israel will neither slumber nor sleep. Prayer: Protect me O Lord from every evil desire of kidnappers in Jesus name. 44

10th February

THE DECEIVER
And the LORD God said unto the woman, What is this that thou hast done? And the woman said, The serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. (Genesis 3:13)

The Bible in Revelation 12:9 called the enemy of your soul the Devil, and Satan, which deceiveth the whole world. He had been a deceiver and remains a deceiver still. What are the tactics that the devil uses? They are pretty simple. He uses many techniques. Some of these include: Inadequate study of the Word of God. Prayerlessness Long standing personal problems. Ungodly companions. Disappointment from friends and the church. Any other problem or challenge. In the case of Eve, he deceived her with food but he used money to deceive Judas. He used girls to deceive Samson but used fear of man to deceive Saul the king of Israel. Because of the advantage of age that he had on his side, the devil is quite knowledgeable in using what man wants to take away from him what man needs. The young people need to be very careful in this area. We want something and many times our desire for such a thing often blind our right sense of judgment. We pray that the Lord help you to always moderate your desires with the word of God.
Challenge: The devil can make men dance upon the brink of hell as though they were on the verge of heaven. Spurgeon Prayer: Help me O Lord to please you and not be deceived by Satan today in Jesus name.

45

11th February

PATIENCE PAYS
For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. (Hebrews 10:36).

A dictionary denes patience as capacity for waiting: the ability to endure waiting, delay, or provocation without becoming annoyed or upset or to persevere calmly when faced with diculties. Patience is good-natured tolerance of delay or incompetence. It is the ability to stay cool and calm when situations around are not working or going as we expect. In a classroom situation, a patient student would not make noise whether the teacher is around or not. On the contrary he would prefer to turn the absence or lateness of the teacher into an opportunity to read in the library, nish an uncompleted note or just read a book. A patient youth does not curse other road users while in a trac hold up. He has no problem waiting for his turns before collecting his meal in the cafeteria or queuing up to board a bus or airplane. He knows that those he met on the line are as anxious as himself. God wants you to be patient in all your ways today. It is not enough to do the will of God. It is more important to do it and wait for God to bring the expected reward. This is how David expressed it Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine heart: wait, I say, on the LORD. (Psalms 27:14).
Challenge: Patience is a necessary ingredient of genius. Disraeli. Prayer: Please help me Lord to patiently wait on You in all I do

today.

46

12th February

THE LOST ART OF WALKING

And I will strengthen them in the LORD; and they shall walk up and down in his name, saith the LORD (Zechariah 10:12).

These days, many people do not like to walk anymore. Because of the availability of bicycles, motorcycles and taxis, many young boys and girls have lost the good art of walking. On their way to school, their parents take them or they go by bus or taxi. Same when they are coming back. When they are going to church or anywhere else, they do not walk. They would rather take public transport if there is no personal vehicle to take them. Never mind the fact that the distance they have to cover is not more than ten minutes walk. Such people have lost the good habit of walking. It is good practice to walk, for walking is a form of exercise that keeps our body healthy. And think about it. Its free! Walking is cheap. It does not cost you any money neither do you burn petrol or waste material resources. Walking often gives us opportunities to think clearly. Isaac walked in the eld when he was thinking about his future and plans (Genesis 24:63, 65). As you go out today, nd opportunity to begin the good habit of walking instead of riding or driving through short distances. As you do, God will strengthen you and make your life a blessing.
Challenge: Jesus walked on land and walked on water. I too must walk like Him.

name.

Prayer: Dear Father, please help me to walk with you today in Jesus

47

13th February

FIERY TONGUE
And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell. (James 3:6).

Fire has good and bad uses. We use re to cook and dispose of debris on the dunghill. We use re for other domestic and industrial purposes and life on earth will not really be easy without the use of re. Nevertheless re still has its negative side. While the positive use has to be controlled, the negative often occur accidentally. But that is when we talk of the literal re. There is another kind of re that can be quite devastating. That is the re in the tongue which Apostle James talked about. The re caused by the tongue can be very destructive. That was the kind of re that destroyed the ten spies and countless others in the wilderness. The re in the tongue turned Miriam into a leper. It buried Dathan, Korah and Abiram alive and turned Samson into a blind giant. Like countless others in the scripture, it is very easy to misuse your tongue. Just open your mouth and talk as you like. That's all. Before you know what is happening, a raging inferno would have consumed a lot of good things. It is possible to destroy family, church and school relationship just with a careless remark. It is important therefore to take care of how you speak and what you say to others. The rule is: if you have nothing to say, keep quiet. For Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding. (Proverbs 17:28).
Challenge: Birds are entangled by their feet and men by their tongues. Thomas Fuller. Prayer: Help me Lord to watch what I say today. Give me the courage

to keep quiet when I actually have nothing to say.

48

14th February

THE EVIL OF YOUR DOINGS

Circumcise yourselves to the LORD, and take away the foreskins of your heart, ye men of Judah and inhabitants of Jerusalem: lest my fury come forth like fire, and burn that none can quench it, because of the evil of your doings. (Jeremiah4:4)

God hates sin. As clearly stated in the words of Jeremiah to the Jews, God wanted the people to circumcise their heart. He wanted them to cut o (that is what circumcision is all about) every part of their lives that would not make them to please Him. Gods complaint is serious. See all that He said He would do if they do not repent. If you must avoid the anger of God then you must equally stop the evil of your doings. The evil of our doings refer to the outcome of the life of sin and ungodliness. It is possible to categorize the evil of the doings of the Israelites into national, family, and individual wrongdoings. Young people are always inuenced by their peers. Many things that you do today are just to enable you to break into the circle of other young people that you admire. If those people demand you do anything as far as you are concerned, that would be alright. But unfortunately the mob is not always right and you could be actually striving to increase the evil of your doing! So what is the solution? Go back to where we started. Circumcise your heart. Work on your motives. Work at your way of working and thinking so that everything you do will be Christ centered. Begin to do that today and the Lord will bless you and remove the evil of your doings.
Challenge: Sin is a reproach, and a hindrance to blessing. Prayer: Search me O God, and knew my heart today.

49

15th February

THE FOOL AND HIS HANDS

The fool foldeth his hands together, and eateth his own flesh. (Ecclesiastes4:5)

It is obvious that we have dierent hands. Generally, those of us who do very little physical work in the house normally have soft hands. When you shake hand with someone whose hand is soft you will see that the hands will be smooth and easy to hold. Not so the hand of the laborer. People who do a lot of physical work do not have soft hands. They often have what you call callused hands. Whether your hand is soft or callused, you need not worry as long as you are working hard and diligently pursuing your goals. Proverbs tells us that people who fail to work are fools. They fold their hands together. That is an idiom. It means they do not work when they should. That they fold their hand is an indication that they failed to participate in the work and assignment they should have done. From this illustration then, we can understand the things that fools use their hands for. Why do they fold their hands? 1. Fools fold their hands because they do not use their brains. People who do not know how to think or work hard eventually spend their time doing nothing creative or helpful. 2. Fools fold their hands because they lack skill. Fools do not know how to do many things. Some boys and girls do not know how to do household chores. They cannot cook, wash plates or even wash their clothes properly. As for academic work, they do not like Mathematics, English language or any core subject they need to pass High School. So they do nothing, but fold their hands. 3. Fools fold their hands because they are afraid of developing hard skin. They are more concerned about their physical appearance than their usefulness. Lazy people do not like hard-work but desire success without labor. Now you know what fools use their hands for. You will not be like them in Jesus name. You will rather be a wise boy or girl, wont you?
Challenge: Fools are generally patient. They are waiting for yesterday. Prayer: Help me Lord to work and labor to prot today and always. 50

16th February

LIKE DAVID
In that day shall the LORD defend the inhabitants of Jerusalem; and he that is feeble among them at that day shall be as David; and the house of David shall be as God, as the angel of the LORD before them. (Zechariah12)

David was a very triumphant man. As a youth, he was noble. As a shepherd, he was courageous and caring. He was a priest, a musician and a highly anointed young man. As a soldier, he was valiant and indomitable. He fought many wars and yet he never lost any all the days of his life. Ask Goliath and his four brothers, and they will tell you that they feared David. David was not the rst king of Israel but he was the king against whom all the others were compared. Jesus our Savior even identied with him as He was called the son of David. Because David was so brilliantly successful, the promise of the Lord in the verse above is very signicant. God says that the weakest person among us will be like David. What a promise! That means that just as David was an all-round winner, so shall it be for the feeble people among us. It means then that ordinarily God will make us supernaturally eective. We shall be strong and successful. Since God said it, then it is done. Above all, we shall be valiant and victorious! Glory to God for making us strong, successful and eective like David.
Challenge: Are you gifted and anointed like David? Prayer: Thank you Lord for making me like David, I am so grateful.

51

17th February

HIS COUNTENANCE
The LORD bless thee, and keep thee: The LORD make his face shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee: The LORD lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace. (Numbers6: 24 26)

Lord, more than money or any other material, more than gold or every good gift, more than friends or any other favor, I need you and I want you to lift up your countenance upon me. You told Aaron and his children to continuously prophesy this truth into the lives of all your children. Our life on earth will amount to nothing should you hide your countenance from me. I do not want that to happen. Dear Father, I want you to bless, and keep me. Lord, please make your face to shine upon me and grant me the grace I need to be able to cope with any eventuality today. As I think of the challenge this day may oer, Lord I need your favor and appreciation in my studies, in my service and in my socials. I want to be a successful student so please help me to nd your favor. I want to do all that will make you happy with me. Everything I do to help others in your name is my service. Help me with that. And my socials consist of my relationships with friends and family members. Please Lord, help me to receive your approval, and then I will be able to know that your countenance is upon me. Thank you Lord
Challenge: Gods favor is better than human favor. Prayer: Dear father, please keep your eyes on me in all that I do today.

52

18th February

TIME OF FAVOR
Thou shall arise and have mercy on Zion: for the time to favor her, yea, the set time, is come. (Psalm102:14)

This morning, think of Zion as someone you know. Here is Zion, the favored of the Lord. But things turned bad and negative and Zion went into slavery. This is no ordinary challenge as the captivity lasted 70 years. But one day, the 70 years ended and Ezra and Nehemiah led a band of once embattled people back home to repossess and rebuild the temple and broken walls of Jerusalem. The time to favor her came. The set time arrived. And the Lord turned again the captivity of Zion. Yes think of Zion as someone like you. And indeed, you ought to be like Zion. Have things gone wrong in your life of late? Have you failed in your examinations and people said bad things against you? Or have you been let down and disappointed by people who ought to know but did not? Whatever might have gone wrong in your life before now, the Lord will arise and have mercy on you. This is the time God will favor you. This is your set time. Today is your day and time of favor. Receive your healing. Receive your deliverance. Receive your victory and be free now in Jesus name
Challenge: Gods favor works better than human labors. Prayer: This is my day of favor. God glorify your name in my life today in Jesus name.

53

19th February

THE HIDING PLACE

Thou art my hiding place and my shield: I hope in thy word. (Psalm119:114)

As a child, you must have played dierent forms of games with your friends. In some of them you probably hide from one another. While playing, whether indoors or outdoors, it is not unusual or unthinkable for you to have a favorite hiding spot where other children would not be able to nd you easily. That spot is your hiding place the place where you can protect yourself from being discovered by people you do not want to nd you. We live in a world of evil where, unlike in the games children play, real spiritual enemies look for Christians in order to hurt and destroy them. Jesus said that the thief s purpose is to steal, kill and destroy. Of course He is correct. It is therefore the duty of every Christian to protect him or herself by seeking a hiding place. As you go out today, make God your hiding place. Make Him your refuge and shield. Let Him be the one who will shield and cover you with His presence in all that you do. To make Him your hiding place, do the following: Hallow His name Invite Him into your heart as Lord and Savior Diligently read His word every day. Increase your commitment to His service Neglect not the Assembly of Gods children Glorify God in all that you do Pray to Him everyday Love Him Appreciate Him in words and action Control your tongue Exalt the name of the Lord above any other name.
Challenge: God loves you and He is able to keep you from all evil. Prayer: Help me O Lord to live to hide in you today. 54

20th February

TOP SECRET
Thou shalt hide them in the secret of thy presence from the pride of man: thou shalt keep them secretly in a pavilion from the strife of tongues. (Psalm31:20).

A secret is a piece of information that we do not want other people to know about. There are good secrets and bad secrets. Good secrets are good things and development that we do not want certain people to know. You will remember how Jesus told some people not to tell anyone about the things that he did for them. Or do you think Samson should have told Delilah about the secret of His strength? That is a good secret to keep away from prying eyes! Bad secrets on the other hand are the bad things that we did but which we want to keep away from people. The right things to do to a bad secret are to own up to it, confess and repent of it. Today, you are Gods top secret. Your life, your work, your health and indeed everything about you and your life is well known to Him. He wants to keep you in His pavilion (His presence). He will keep you from the strife of tongues. You are Gods good secret and He is aware that there are many people out there who would wish to say many bad things against you. But God will not let them see you. Neither will their evil intentions come to pass in your life today. Yes, you are Gods special secret. An agenda of success has been written about you. The enemy will not see, or know anything about it until you have become a living miracle for all. Get ready. Today will be a great day in your life in Jesus name.
Challenge: A life given to God is a life well kept! Prayer: Thank you Father, for the good things that you will use me to accomplish for you today.

55

21st February

I KNOW NOTHING
For I know nothing by myself: yet am I not hereby justified: but he that judgeth me is the Lord. (1 Corinthians4:4)

Wise men know that they do not know enough. They are aware of their lack and usually do everything they could to increase their knowledge. Only fools and proud people boast about their little knowledge. It is said that he who knows not and knows that he knows not is a student, train him. But he who knows not and knows not that he knows not is a fool, leave him. After all, not much can be given a man who is satised; same with knowledge and education. An individual who is satised with his level of understanding and achievement may not appreciate whatever else is done to help him. Paul was a well-educated man who realized after his conversion that he knew nothing. His desire to know more created an urge in him to seek the face of God. Hear him: That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his suerings, being made conformable unto his death, not as though I had already attained either were already perfect: but I follow after; if that I may apprehend that for which I am apprehended of Christ Jesus(Philippians3:10,12). As a student who desires excellence in secular and spiritual matters you must learn to say I know nothing so that you might be able to benet from your teachers in school and leaders and pastors in church. Because knowledge is on the increase, what one knows yesterday may not be enough to eectively handle todays challenges. Truly, you know nothing.
Challenge: Empty barrels make much noise. Prayer: Lord, help me to see my emptiness, so I can receive the

fullness of your grace.

56

22nd February

GET WISDOM
Get wisdom, get understanding: forget it not; neither decline from the words of my mouth.(Proverbs4:5)

With all the numerous challenges we face Christians and students, we need the wisdom of God. We also need to plan well, leave nothing to chance. For school resumption, when in most cases we move to a new class, we also try to get new books, new uniforms (as the case may be) new bags, shoes etc. For us young people, new things are good things. If theBiblehad been silent on this, it is not likely that many of us would think of wisdom as something that we must possess. Yet that is exactly what God wants us to do. As you think of things you want for resumption, Christmas and New Year, think of wisdom as a virtue you must get. How does one get wisdom? Wait on the Lord and ask Him to give you wisdom Identify the sins in your life that may hinder you from receiving from the Lord. Severe every link between you and sins Diligently read yourBibleeveryday Obey the word of God and live right everyday Minister grace in everything that you do.
Challenge: Wisdom is Gods gift, receive it free. Prayer: I come to you Lord for wisdom today. Please make me wise to your ways in Jesus name.

57

23rd February

GODS ARMY
And I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten, the cankerworm, and the caterpillar, and the palmerworm, my great army which I sent among you. (Joel2:25)

During the time of the Nigerian civil war between 1967 and 1969, it was very common to hear announcements on the radio talking about joining the army. In those days, soldiers were seen as heroes, and many parents encouraged their children to join the army. The role of the army in warfare is very important as most wars are won or lost depending on the strength and character of the army. The verse we are reading this morning is also talking about wars and armies. But these armies are not the kind you will want to think about or talk of as armies. The creatures God used to ght the wars were locusts, cankerworms, caterpillars and palmerworms, funny looking creatures that specialize in destruction of plants and other food items. God is making an end of all wars and He is putting an end to every form of destruction or deprivation you might have suered. Sin was the reason why Gods army invaded the land. As you repent and make your way right with God today, God will put an end to the powers of these destructive invaders and restore unto you everything you might have lost or suered. Everything that has caused you pain will bring you pleasure today in Jesus name.
Challenge: Every day is followed by night just as every night surrenders today. Prayer: Help me O Lord to experience your restoration power in

every area of my life today.

58

24th February

WHAT MAKES YOU TICK?

Delight thyself also in the Lord, and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. (Psalm37:4)

People generally want to be happy, and dierent things make people joyful. Some derive their joy from drinks others from drugs. Some get happy only when they are eating particular types of food. For most boys and girls the three things that give them kicks are the 3 'Gs' gold, gifts and girls/guys. Gold is another word for money. Gifts are our natural ability in sports or music and the recognition they bring to us. Girls or guys are members of the opposite sex. To receive these or their appreciation become the reason(s) why many of us do what we do. But beyond the pursuit of the 3 Gs we should take heed to the word of God this morning. David will want you to delight yourself and keep your head down in your studies, business and relationships. But after you have done that he will want you to delight also in the Lord. He wants you to be happy in spiritual things too so that your source of joy and happiness will not be in physical things alone. He wants you to be happy in spiritual things so that the outcome of such decision will make you useful for His work. Today, you will surely be happy to be called a child of God. Praise the Lord.
Challenge: When you make Him rst, He makes you rst also. Prayer: You are my God. Obeying you will be my pleasure today.

59

25th February

IT SHALL BE WELL WITH THEE

Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in his ways. For thou shalt eat the labor of thine hands: happy shalt thou be, and it shall be well with thee. (Psalm128: 1, 2).

Here is a promise as good as gold. It shall be well with thee! Believe it. Receive it. Accept it and it is yours today and for the rest of your life. Someone said that Gods promises are like the stars, the darker the night, the brighter they shine. It is true. When we fear the Lord, we have opened ourselves up to be blessed by the Almighty. Our decision to honor and respect Him gives us opportunities to come to the throne of grace. As a result, God oers to bless our labors. That means that we shall do well in our studies and any other good thing we choose to do. We shall be happy because our success will give us reasons to rejoice. Many who used to have contempt for us will wonder when they now meet us. We shall do more and increase more to the glory of God. The conclusion of the matter is: It shall be well with you! Yes, it shall be well with you in all your ways! It shall be well with you in your work and labors It shall be well with you in your spirit. It shall be well with your soul. In all your dreams and aspirations, it shall be well with you in Jesus name
Challenge: Faithful is He who has promised, who also will do it. Prayer: It shall be well with me in all that I do today.

60

26th February

GOD AND MY PERSECUTORS

But the LORD is with me as a mighty terrible one: therefore my persecutors shall stumble, and they shall not prevail: they shall be greatly ashamed; for they shall not prosper: their everlasting confusion shall never be forgotten. (Jeremiah20:11)

My persecutors think that I am a small fellow. Well, they are ignorant. My persecutors think I am helpless. They think because I go around gently, not getting into trouble and not showing o, that I am a weakling. They are wrong! They think as they are thinking now because they do not know me. The real me has a big God as my supporter. My God is a mighty and terrible one. He is a great God. A big God and the God of all possibilities is always there for me. I prophesy in the name of the Lord today that because I serve a great God, my persecutors shall stumble. They shall not prevail over me. As they try to pursue me and pull me down, they shall be put to shame and their desire against me shall not prosper. In fact, there is going to be everlasting confusion in their plans and activities today and their defeat and fall shall be a testimony I shall give and continue to give. I give God the glory for my triumphs. I am a victor over all my persecutors for my God shall defend me from all their onslaughts. The battle is no longer mine. It is now God against my persecutors. He surely knows how to handle them.
Challenge: How do you react to persecution? Prayer: I turn over the battle of my life unto you Oh Lord!

61

27th February

OUR GUIDE AND GUARD

I will go before thee, and make the crooked places straight: I will break in pieces the gates of brass, and cut in sunder the bars of iron (Isaiah 45:2)

When you have to travel or journey in an area that you have not been to before, it is good to have a guide. Remember Jacob. He was running away from home to his uncle Laban in Haran. He never travelled the road before and when God appeared to him on the way he was ready and willing to have God guide him on the journey. But God is not only willing to be our guide. He is ready to be our Guardian too. He will lead and keep us from evil. That is the focus of our verse for meditation today. God stated His plan and program as guide by oering to go before us. And since He is leading, all we need to do is just to follow Him. As He leads us, the following will come to pass:

He will make crooked places straight (He will correct our

mistakes and create new opportunities for us) demonic and occultic powers against us)

He will break in pieces gates of brass (He will put to shame He will cut bars of iron. (He will set us free and remove every
man made or spiritual barriers on our ways.) Today, God will guide you in all your ways. He will guard and protect you from every evil and demonic power. He is able to do what he promised. Follow Him and trust Him.
Challenge: You can never be misled when you follow the Lord. Prayer: Heavenly Father, I am grateful for your blessings and power.

Guide and protect me from every evil in Jesus name.

62

28th February

OUR PRESENT SUFFERINGS

For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us. (Romans8:18)

It is a fact that believers still face persecutions and endure suerings day after day. Believers are persecuted for their faith by people who see Christians as indels and will want to use force to control and oppress them. But there are others who maltreat believers because they think children of God are fanatics who will not allow them to indulge themselves in unwelcome behavior. For whatever reasons, real or imagined, true believers will suer persecution from a godless world. Paul the apostle, who wrote the epistle to the Romans, knew a lot about persecution. He once persecuted Christians before his conversion and after conversion suered persecution himself. His conclusion then is that our persecutions are nothing compared to the glory of God that will be revealed in us at last. So what are we to do? We are to endure, persevere, continue trusting and serving the Lord in the midst of very dicult circumstances. There is a beautiful reward waiting us in heaven if we remain faithful to the end. And the reward we will get in the end is such as will make us to forget our suerings here on earth. So whatever harassment or humiliation you may face today, praise the Lord and keep on following the Lord. It shall be well with you in Jesus name.
Challenge: It is always darkest before dawn. Prayer: Help me O Lord to bear whatever challenge will come my way today.

63

29th February

WORDS OF WISDOM
A word fitly spoken is like apple of gold in picture of silver (Proverbs 25:11).

The words we speak could mean more than we can ever imagine. Words spoken can be weighty. What we say out when we speak can make or mar lives depending on whether they are positively or negatively decoded (interpreted). Spoken Words are very important and not reversible. What the women said when they were singing banished David into exile for over a decade. What Michal, the daughter of Saul said made her barren for life (2 Corinthians6:2023). Believers should be very conscious of what and how they speak. A word tly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver. There are words spoken in due season (Proverbs15:23), from a wholesome tongue (Proverbs 15:4) and seasoned with salt (Colossians 4:6). There are gracious words from the mouth of the wise (Ecclesiastes10:12). They are words of wisdom. Christian youths should watch what they say and how they speak. What you speak out tells volumes of stories about you. Jesus said authoritatively in Mathew chapter twelve, verse thirty four out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh. You can take precautions against evil speaking and develop your skills of positive thinking. Follow the following principles:

Be swift to hear and slow to speak (James1:19) Let your words be few (Proverbs10:19) Speak only when you have something important to say. Give soft answer whatever be the provocation (Proverbs 15:1). Keep your heart with all diligence Proverbs 4:23).

Try to audit your past to see how you have been talking. You will need to take denite decisions on how you will guide your heart and keep your mouth. The word of God says that he that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life (Proverbs 13:3).
Challenge: Life and death are in the power of the tongue.

Lord.

Prayer: Help me keep my tongue that I will speak no guile, Oh 64

1st March

BY NO MEANS QUIT
And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not. (Galatians6:9)

The path to success is never smooth and trouble-free. It is often bumpy and it is always for the rugged. Precious stones do not lie on the surface of the earth. The miners dig deep down to get them. An adage says:A step after another, the longest journey is ended. Great achievers of old were people who attempted dicult things and who overcame tough times. Holland once advised: There is no royal road to anything; one thing at a time, all things in succession. H.B. Stowe also counseled:When you get into a tight place and everything goes against you till it seems you could not hold on a minute longer, never give up then, for that is just the place and turn that the tide will turn. Do you know that the only alternative to perseverance is failure? Don't give up! Your mistakes of the past can be turned into stepping stones for your success. On no account must you give up! You can forge ahead where others have fallen. Don't give up! Excellence is always the product of determination. Strive for better performance. Don't give up! What makes the dierence between success and failure is the ability to keep trying. Never give up!

Challenge: Patience is a virtue.

tougher.

Prayer: Keep me moving, Lord, even when the challenge gets

65

2nd March

DIVINE GUARANTEE
But there shall not an hair of your head perish.(Luke21: 18)

As you wake up this morning, you should pay attention to the parts of your body that are intact as they were when you went to bed yesterday. You should also consider that while you were asleep, you had no control over all these parts of your body. Then, why should you be afraid of any evil during the day? Why do you think that the one that kept you while you were dead to the world is not able to keep you when you are totally awake? Yes, it may be true that you can foresee some threats, but be rest assured thatthere shall not a hair of your head perish. Can you not imagine that a hair is so small that even if one of them falls you can hardly notice it? Yet, God's assurance is that none of those hairs shall perish. This is a great relief. Therefore, rise up and do whatever God wants you to do for spiritual, material, academic and professional accomplishment without entertaining any fear or anxiety. Move ahead, the Lord that kept you while you were having forty winks is still on the throne and He will keep you as you trust in Him.
Challenge: I will both lay me down in peace, and sleep: for thou, Lord, only makest me dwell in safety-Psalms4:8. Prayer: Lord, I know you care for me, thank you for giving me the

faith to trust in you.

66

3rd March

GOD, OUR GUIDE

For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death. (Psalm48: 14)

The world in which we live is likened to a wilderness. Human beings are travelers who are making their journeys across the backwoods of the world. Everyone on this pilgrimage journey needs leadership lest he walks o from the right path. Nobody knows the future. No one can brag of knowing the way through the barren land of life. Every wise traveler on life journey needs guidance through the forest, deserts, mountains and valleys. As a Christian youth, you need divine guidance to make right choices on fundamental issues of life. You can receive God's guidance in decision-making process each time you come to the crossroads in life. Divine guidance is promised to the meek and humble children of God.The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way. (Psalms 25:9). It is imperative for you to seek God's guidance in all your ways for a good future. When God, the Omniscience, is consulted before any major decision is taken, there is assurance that the right choice will be made. If you make God your Partner and Guide in life, it is certain you will be lled with His favor, and he will guide you in every step of the way. Begin today by making Jesus Christ the Lord of your life. He will guide you through your journey on earth.
Challenge: Genuine guidance comes from omniscient God. Prayer: Guide me dear Lord, and lead me through my journey here

on earth.

67

4th March

THE BLESSINGS OF OPPOSITION

And the patriarchs, moved with envy, sold Joseph into Egypt: but God was with him, And delivered him out of all his afflictions, and gave him favor and wisdom in the sight of Pharaoh king of Egypt; and he made him governor over Egypt and all his house. (Acts7:9-10).

Opposition seems unpleasant and most undesirable by many. It is seen by many as a way to limit progress, ruin ambition and erase good dreams. However, conict has its very good sides. Joseph was resisted and hated by his brethren. His aspiration and vision looked threatening to them, his style was oensive and his utterances sounded upsetting. But what a blessing their hostility turned out to be for Joseph! It conrms the popular maxim that it is always darkest before the dawn. Indeed, resistance to what is good in our lives should lead us to uphold and keep up those intrinsic worth. You should know that the slothful will oppose the diligent; the happygo-lucky will oppose the organized, the proigate will resist the prudent, the swindler will oppose the honest. But, it is in the dark that the star shines brighter and its value more appreciated by all. , Joseph kept his head in times of unfriendliness. He allowed the unfavorable burst of criticism against him to be what the blast of the storm is to the eaglea force against him that lifts him higher and nearer his destiny. Joseph was lifted up by God. You too can be lifted up, if you remain godly, level-headed, focused and diligent
Challenge: A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the eort. Herm Albright

goal.

Prayer: O Lord, help me to remain committed to my God-given

68

5th March

LET THEM SAY

Also take no heed unto all words that are spoken; lest thou hear thy servant curse thee (Ecclesiastes7:21)

The easiest thing for most people is to talk. They converse about virtually everything under the sun. They speak about the heat of the sun, torrent of the rain, curvature of the road, smell of the food, brightness or dullness of the sky. They talk about the haircut of their teachers, the grammar of their lecturers or pastors, the commitment of the diligent students and the indolence of others. They talk about those who are fashionable and those who care less about fashion. They talk about those who are aggressive in their pursuit and those who are sluggish. All the words people speak usually do not benet their hearers. Listening and taking to heart a wrong comment or word is the beginning of bitterness and sadness of life. You must therefore learn how to lter the right words to take to heart. You have the responsibility to shun words of discouragement, disrespect and abuse. You have the duty to close your ears to the words that weaken your resolve to achieving something in life, and the utterances that make you sour towards others
Challenge: Too many clicks spoil the browse! Prayer: Lord, make me speak less but hear more of gracious words.

69

6th March

NOW IS THE MOMENT

And he, casting away his garment, rose, and came to Jesus. (Mark 10:50)

Habits die hard is a popular saying. However, there comes a time when a radical decision must be taken in order to gain freedom. Bartimaeus has been used to wrapping himself up with his garment the garments of the blind man, the garment of the beggar, the garment of the poor and invalid. But a day of change came as he heard of Jesus passing by that way. He would not miss the opportunity, he cried out and cast away his garment rose and came to Jesus. He broke his habit of sitting by the highway to beg, he decided that a change must come! The momentum for his breakthrough has come. Good boys and girls must not allow good opportunities for success to slip by. They should seize it, and utilize it. Today too you can decide for a change for the best. Cast away the garment of procrastination and laziness. Cast away the garment of idle talks and daydreaming. What is it that has held you down for long? Its power will be lost and broken as you decisively arise to do what you are expected to do today. Do not linger any longer, arise, now is the time. Read that book, pray that prayer, write that letter, make that apology, and complete that assignment. Throw away the old garment now! And shout the shout of freedom, come to Jesus.
Challenge: Delay is dangerous, lost opportunity cannot be regained. Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to arise and possess my possession.

70

7th March

DONT STRENGTHEN YOUR ADVERSARY

And when the Philistines heard that the children of Israel were gathered together to Mizpeh, the lords of the Philistines went up against Israel. And when the children of Israel heard it, they were afraid of the Philistines. (1Samuel7:7).

Poor Israelites! They gathered for prayers but they were afraid of their enemies more than they had condence in God. On time, the Lord sent thunder against the Philistines, discomted them and ensured victory for the children of Israel. Meanwhile, there they were shivering and trembling in fear. Terror is a tool Satan uses and likes to use against Christians. The greatest harm we can do to ourselves is to yield to fears and threats from our enemies. When you panic you make God a liar and make Satan the powerful one. Satan is not the Lord, Jesus is. Jesus should have the honor and respect that fear is making you to give the devil. You must not fortify your foe today. Instead, you will weaken him by arming the promises of the Lord in the scriptures that declares: The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? the Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked, even mine enemies and my foes, came upon me to eat up my esh, they stumbled and fell.Though an host should encamp against me, my heart shall not fear: though war should rise against me, in this will I be condent. One thing have I desired of the Lord, that will I seek after; 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. 5 For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock. 6 And now shall mine head be lifted up above mine enemies round about me: therefore will I oer in his tabernacle sacrices of joy; I will sing, yea, I will sing praises unto the Lord(Psalms27:1-6)
Challenge: Fear is the weapon that conquers reason. Prayer: Lord, help me to pray like David:What time I am afraid, I will trust in thee.(Psalms56:3). 71

8th March

MOVING FROM MISTAKES TO MASTERY

Teach me, and I will hold my tongue: and cause me to understand wherein I have erred. (Job6:24)

Nobody likes to make mistakes. But then, achievers' experiences have shown that mistakes are a good contributor to the art of mastering knowledge or skills. The invention of Scotch brand transparent tape in 1929 evolved from mistakes. Thomas Edison, the scientist who invented the lament of electric bulb was said to have made many mistakes before he succeeded. According to him, the mistakes he made were utilized as stepping stones to guide him to his nal accomplishment. Mistakes are therefore necessary experiences in the process of learning of skills in languages, mathematics, drawing, and painting and in all other subjects. The experience is the same in learning to ride a bicycle. The learner falls many times before he masters the art of riding a bicycle. A toddler learning to crawl or walk perfects the art after countless falls. Since practice makes perfect, the experience is similar in virtually every area of human learning. The learner learns from past mistakes before he become perfect and skillful in the chosen area of endeavor. A student who does not want to make mistakes may never learn. Students who do not want to answer questions or speak English in the public or in their classes do so to avoid mistakes and mockery. It is protable for you to participate in your class discussion, language expression and teaching-learning activities. Never mind your mistakes or the mockery of your friends. When you make mistakes, move from mistakes to mastery like Edison and imprint your name in the golden hall of fame
Challenge: Failure teaches success. Prayer: Oh Lord, help me to always learn from my mistakes.

72

9th March

WHERE ARE YOU HEADING?

Be not deceived: evil communication corrupt good manners. (1 Corinthians15:33)

If a lazybones isn't a nuisance to you, it's a sign that you are a bit of a freeloader yourself. If a hooligan isn't repulsive to you, it's easy to tell that you are one yourself. Admire a robber, and then you may be a crook. Fancy a bully, and that's who you are. If, on the other hand, you associate with godly and serious minded youths, it means you are saintly yourself. Your inuence on one another will be positive and productive. Remember,great minds think alike. Look carefully at the closest associations in your life, for that is the direction you are heading. Its often said, tell me your friend and I will tell you who you are. Who you associate with matters a lot. TheBibleasks, Can two walk together except they be agreed? The greatest inuence in your life is the object of your attention, aection and devotion. The question is: who is he/she? An English adage cautions:False friends are worse than open enemies.If you are headed in the wrong direction, stop now, make a U-turn and face the right direction.
Challenge: Birds of the same feather ock together. Prayer: Deliver me, dear Lord, from the folly of wrong associations.

73

10th March

SECRET OF PROGRESS
There remaineth the youngest, and behold, he keepeth the sheep. (1 Samuel16: 11)

The secret to progress in life is that of obedience and duty. This rule holds for the young people as well as for the old. This is because obedience opens the door for progress and success, while duty keeps it open. David was faithfully helping his father as he was busy keeping the sheep in the eld. It is important to know that one of the rst principles of leadership is that we must learn to follow, that is, we must learn to obey. He did not play truancy, neither did he make any excuse to go and commit sin. There were no indications that he nursed any great ambition like becoming a king or ruler. His concern was just to keep the sheep. He was keeping the sheep without grudge and was ready to do anything so that the sheep might be preserved. David obeyed his parents possibly not because he did not want to be caned or disciplined, but out of duty and submission. There were no bonus for him for keeping the sheep, yet he was faithful. God looked at all these and sent Samuel to anoint him as king. He got much more than he ever imaginedhe became a king! My friend, do you know that God is watching how seriously you are taking your assignments and duties? Do you know that His blessings will follow every youth who obey His words? Put yourself in line for His blessing by doing all the good things that you are asked to do at home or at school today. And before you know it, you too will reach the top!
Challenge: And whosoever shall exalt himself shall be abased; and he that shall humble himself shall be exalted-Matthew 23:12. Prayer: Give me a heart to obey you always O Lord.

74

11th March

REASON FOR HOPE

And it shall turn to you for a testimony (Luke21:13)

The propelling force in life is hope. It is hope that keeps people going when it appears there is no visible sign of positive result ahead. Therefore, when things appear dark, anticipate something wonderful at the end. When adversity attends your way and you are made to carry heavy burdens that are becoming insuerable, remember a testimony is around the corner. You must remember at all times that the wound on the oyster grows to become a pearl which is very precious. You must never forget that a diamond is a stone with a dierence because it has passed through an unusual heat or re that removed all its impurity away. If you suer slander, hatred and opposition, bear it patiently and calmly, in the end you will have testimony to give. Remember Joseph in the Bible, his suerings, denials and incarceration turned out later to become s stepping stone to the throne in Egypt. What are you going through today? Here is comfort from the Scripture:Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance(Psalms42:5)
Challenge: The darkest hour is just before dawn. Prayer: O God help me to always persevere until victory is assured.

75

12th March

DREAM DESTROYERS
Yet a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep: So shall thy poverty come as one that travelleth, and thy want as an armed man. (Proverb 6:10-11)

Sleep is good and refreshing, but too much of it is inimical to our dreams. Disproportionate sleeping makes us to be forgetful of our dreams. It jeopardizes the achievement of our lifes goals as it promotes idleness. Always bear in mind that an idle hand is the devil's workshop. To avoid being an instrument in the hands of the devil, make sure you are always engaged doing something purposeful and gainful. Slothfulness and sluggishness are twin-sisters and demolishers of great dreams. The indolent and the sluggish share in common the bad habit of slow actions. They delay in doing assignments/ homework, reading/studying and in preparing for examinations. They are always too slow to take protable actions, and these jeopardize their success. Beware of slothfulness and sluggishness. Doubt and discouragement are two other enemies of success and dream destroyers. They complement each other in their evil works. They work contrary to courage and condence which are essentials in the pursuit of success goals. Doubt works on the youth and make him feel inadequate, worthless and incapable of reaching his success goals. In a similar way, discouragement works on youth who has lost his strength and become bored and wearied in pursuing his life's goals. Never allow these two enemies in your life because they will hamper your dreams from being realized. Procrastination and postponement are also twin evils that characterize youth who do things at their own convenient time. You must do away with these vices if you want to excel in life. These dream destroyers ensure a youngster put o until later what he or she can do now, or until tomorrow what should be done today. Most times, the tasks are either not done at all or they are done too late. Rid yourself of these dream destroyers in order to achieve success.
Challenge: Never put o till tomorrow what can be done today. Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to get rid of all dream destroyers in my life today. 76

13th March

LEARN TO LISTEN
Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath (James1:19)

Talking and listening are important skills in communication. But listening is one of the most dicult skills to develop. People are mostly willing to talk than listen. The seemingly passive contributor in a discussion breaks his silence so soon because of his impulsive urge to say something. Even when students are in a learning environment like the classroom their hearts often wander away instead of paying heed. Listening is one of the most protable but most disregarded skills in human interactions. It is easier to talk than to pay attention. It is, however, benecial to listen than to talk. Learn to listen and listen to learn. The listener learns a lot while the talker leaks out a lot. You have a duty to listen to God during devotional times. Listening with rapt attention during teaching process will prot you immensely in acquisition of knowledge. Develop your listening skills by paying good attention to protable discussions, classroom teachings, parental instructions and conversations in interpersonal relationships. Learn to listen. And remember, a listening ear is a learning ear.
Challenge: Silence pays when there is nothing tangible to say. Prayer: Keep the door of my mouth, Oh Lord; and help me to learn by listening.

77

14th March

LOOK FORWARD
Say not thou, What is the cause that the former days were better than these for thou dost not enquire wisely concerning this (Ecclesiastes7: 10)

Today is another day with a bright prospect. The future will become dazzling as you look away from your past failures, mistakes, inadequacies and problems. You must not waste the precious time of today which, can be protably used for purposeful activities to think on the unfavorable occurrences of yesterday. Remember, yesterday is gone and cannot be changed. But you can have a better secured future if you carry out your duties today with an eye on the future. Fill up the gaps in your life, read your books, revise your notes and prepare adequately for your examinations. Learn from the mistakes of the past and more forward with optimism. Let your heart be saturated with positive things and be assured that there is a better future awaiting you. Take a step after the other towards your goal and you will be getting faster to its achievement. The letdown of yesterday should not be a string to tie you down from moving forward. Lift up your eyes unto God and move forward to a great and blessed future.
Challenge: There is always a better future for the person who looks forward with hope. Prayer: Turn my eyes upon you O Lord as I move forward.

78

15th March

I DROP THEM!
... I cannot go with these; for I have not proved them: And David put them off him ... (I Samuel 17:39)

Many people cannot go very far in winning the battle of life because they are loaded with needless and distracting weights. They see through other peoples' eyes, smell through other peoples nose and move through other peoples feet. They take counsel from everyone, even from those who have not counseled themselves. But not David, he was wise; he would not compromise or suer from the choke of things put upon him. David was not timid, he told the King Saul: .. I cannot go with these .. He was emphatic and not apologetic! He did not wait for further opinion or suggestions form Saul. He did not seek amendments or right-sizing of any kind. His mind was made up. He put them o him. What a noble, courageous and wise decision! Friend, this day what have proved to be the heavy objects put upon you that have tended to weigh you down? How long will you compromise on these things'? Check around you, what are the things that you have allowed but which is slowing you down; long standing friends of no value? Are there unprotable commitments that sap your time and energy? Or is it the counsel that has rather trapped you? What of those pleasure and materials that detract you and weaken your conviction? Drop them; drop them now! David did and prevailed eventually over Goliath. You too will win through in life, but drop those objects.
Challenge: The great are they who attempt the dicult things, which lesser men avoidIndian proverb. Prayer: O Lord, give me the courage to know when to say no.

79

16th March

NEEDLESS WORRY
Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? (Matthew 6:27)

Many of us worry about many things. Some open letters worrying over its possible content. Others worry over imaginable diseases, failure, disappointments and evils. There are students who lose sleep whether they will pass their examinations very well notwithstanding they have prepared adequately. Yet others worry whether their parents would pay their school fees. They worry about events that would never occur except in their imagination. It is of no use to be anxious. Worry is a mental instrument of torture. Worry robs one of peace of mind and strength and ability to do good work. A person cannot get the highest quality of eciency into his work when the mind is uneasy. A disturbed brain cannot think clearly and logically. Worry will paralyze good thoughts, and turn a genius into a mediocre. Worry can ruin ambition, frustrate hope and destroy one's future. Worry has killed millions. It makes a person not only look older but also to become older. Anxiety is a silent killer. You should stop worrying and start to live right by doing the following: Refuse to see the ugly side of life but make the best of things.Trust in the Lord with all thine heart and lean not on thine understanding.Let hope, audacity and cheerfulness replace discouragement and worry. Pray, depend on God and rejoice over the unforeseen blessings of all your coming days.
Challenge: Never worry about the things you cannot help and those

you can help.

Prayer: Help me O Lord to stop worrying and start living.

80

17th March

STAND
Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. (Ephesians 6:13).

Many people love sitting, but sitting is associated with rest and agreement. But those who make history are people who are not sitting. They are the people who are not entirely satised with what they see around them. They stand tall in their imaginations and ideas. Those who sit have limited sight; those who stand can farther. Standing means alertness, sitting connotes complacency. To stand is to infer that one is aware of possible dangers; it also infers readiness for action order to run. It is true that a person cannot be sitting and running at the same time, you must stand. Life is a race, and to win you must run. But also, those who stand do so for something. You need to stand for something worthwhile. Joseph stood for purity. Daniel stood for godliness. You must stand for something. Stand for Excellence; stand for cleanliness; stand for hard work stand for prayerfulness; stand for honesty; and stand for success. Stand therefore where others are falling and faltering. Stand while others are sitting, dosing, sleeping and losing their vision and courage. Stand is an action word. Enough is enough, rise up this morning and stand. The race begins with standing. As you run for excellence, purity, righteousness and success, keep standing. Stand on the truth. Stand in Jesus. Stand in His blood. Keep standing all the way.
Challenge: Never sit down before the end. Prayer: O Lord, strengthen me as I stand on your promises.

81

18th March

YOUR CHARACTER DEFINES YOU

And Esau said, Behold, I am at the point to die: and what profit shall this birthright do to me? (Genesis 25:32)

We often do not fully appreciate what we have until it is lost. This is very true of good character. It is made by many acts and can be lost by a single act. The collapse of character often begins with a single compromise. Our character is determined by what we stand for and fall for. The aw in our character will show up when we are under pressure. The anxiety can come from preparing for examination, promotion interview, replying a very critical remark, or temptation of satisfying the esh. Whatever the pressure is, the end result is to test our character. We must however remember that a sense of values of what we are is the most important single element in our personality. Anyone who is honest, fair, tolerant, and charitable to others and well behaved is a success no matter where he or she is. Therefore hold fast to chastity, honesty, reliability, dependability, truthfulness, sincerity, discipline and courage. Never exchange them for anything. It is not how high you go in life that counts, but how you get there. It is not what you have, but what you are that makes life worthwhile. Hold your head high; be like Joseph and Daniel, and surely, God will always be with you.
Challenge: Good character will keep you going even when every other thing fails. Prayer: Lord, help me to keep myself.

82

19th March

NO TALKING!
Therefore the prudent shall keep silence in that time; for it is an evil time. (Amos 5:13)

You are not expected to talk whenever you are in the library. There, you will normally nd inscriptions on the wall that read keep silent, silence is golden, keep quiet, amongst others. A library is a place where you should read and talk with your pen only. You are not expected to talk with your mouth in the library. It is equally a good habit to keep quiet during worship services in the house of God. The church should not be a place where we make noise or start eating while service is on. Its is not a place for naughtiness! As with the library, the house of God requires quietness so that people who have come to worship will actually be able to focus appropriately on the Lord and His word. Knowing when to talk and when not to talk is very important in all areas of life. Jesus refused to talk before Pilate. His silence was a fulllment of the prophetic words altered on his behalf. As you go out today remember to watch what you say and where you say them. And when you have nothing to say, keep quiet! Remember the proverb:It is better to keep silent even when people think you are a fool than to open your mouth and prove them right.
Challenge: Keep quiet and people will think you a philosopher Latin proverb Prayer: Give me the wisdom to talk to you and keep quiet when I have nothing to say to people.

83

20th March

LEARNING TO TAKE CORRECTIONS

Let the righteous smite me; it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be an excellent oil, which shall not break my head: for yet my prayer also shall be in their calamities. (Psalm 141:5)

Correction is not strange in human organizations. As young boys and girls, we have parents, teachers and elders who chasten us when it is necessary. It is a normal experience for our growth in the family, school or church. The Bible says, Whoso loveth instruction loveth knowledge .. A wise son heareth his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke (Proverbs 12:1; 13:1). Discipline is practical demonstrations of parental love to children. Righteous reproof from higher authorities is to prevent children from erring. Open rebuke is better than secret love. Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful (Proverbs 27:5, 6). What is your usual reaction to rebuke? Do you feel pleased like Solomon (in our text)? When you are reprimanded always remember that chastisements are act of love to help you towards the fulllment of God's purpose for your life. We must be happy that we have people to discipline and direct our lives in a positive way. A child left to himself bringeth his mother to shame. (Proverbs 29:15)
Challenge: Spare the rod and spoil the child. Prayer: Oh Lord. Help me to appreciate my parents and teachers when they chastise me.

84

21st March

FRUIT OF HARD WORK

he did it with all his heart, and prospered. (2 Chronicles31:21).

Working hard is the tonic of a successful life. Nothing worthwhile is ever achieved without patience, labor and determination. Hard work creates opportunities to be promoted. The reason why a lot of people cannot nd opportunities in life is because it is often disguised as hard work. Greatness and achievement are the ospring of hard work. Someone has saidSuccess is sweet but its secret is sweat. What is called good luck often has the odor of perspiration about it. We get out of life what we put into it. We must therefore resolve to brace up and work hard with good judgment and commitment. No one has ever yet climbed the ladder of success with his hands in his pockets. AndSeest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.(Proverbs 22:29). The dictionary is the only place where success comes before work. He that loveth pleasure shall be a poor man (Proverbs 21:17). Make a supreme eort at mastering your trade; and give your all at mastering your subjects. Remember, if we take our work seriously, the result of our work will take care of us.In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread (Genesis3:19). Put in all that you can into what you are doing, reading, learning, studying and every. Always note thatHe becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand; but the hand of the diligent maketh rich(Proverbs10:4).
Challenge: All things are dicult before they are easy. Prayer: Lord, help me to shun slothfulness.

85

22nd March

SLAVES OF IMAGINATION
The desire of the slothful killeth him; for his hands refuse to labor (Proverbs21:25)

Imagination is the ability of forming mental images, sensations and concepts, in a moment when they are not perceived through sight, hearing or other senses. Imagination is the work of the mind that helps create. Imagination helps provide meaning to experience andunderstandingto knowledge; it is a fundamental facility through which people make sense of the world, and it also plays a key role in the learningprocess. A basic training for imagination is listening to storytelling (narrative) in which the exactness of the chosen words is the fundamental factor to "evoke worlds."Other words synonymouswithimaginationarefancy and fantasy. These nouns refer to the power of the mind to form images, especially of what is not present to the senses.Fancyespecially suggests mental invention that is whimsical, capricious, or playful and that is characteristically well removed from reality: "All power of fancy over reason is a degree of insanity"(Samuel Johnson).Fantasyis applied principally to elaborate or extravagant fancy as a product of the imagination given free rein. Most people, including youngsters operate at the realm of fancy and fantasy, which is very unhelpful for addressing the realities of the situations they face daily. People are limited in their life endeavors only by their thoughts and imaginations which are not followed up with positive action. Most of the things which make life worth living and sustained man are the products of good imagination. However, imagination without corresponding action is scarcely more than fantasy. Its like one that builds castle in the air. This is where the problem with many people lies. They imagine great things all the time, but they are not productively engaged to make such things real. Fancy or fantasy only give the person involved momentary joy and relief by removing him mentally from his present environment which may not be very pleasant. The truth is that fantasy is a time killer. If not tamed, it becomes a tyrant that perpetually holds a person in captivity. However, to achieve and make progress in life, you must move from the realm of fantasy to more productive imaginations. You must apply your hands to work. Challenge: What you see is what you get.- Flip Wilson. Prayer: Lord, give me the grace to progress from mere imaginations to fruitful actions.
86

23rd March

GODLY COURAGE
And David said to Saul, Let no man's heart failbecause of him; thy servant will go and fight with this philistine. (1 Samuel17:32)

Praise the Lord because we do not need to be behind the wall of defeat as a result of fear. We do not need to remain in hiding because of timidity. Others may do so but we will not because God is in us. Be of good courage, and he shall strengthen your heart, all ye that hope in the Lord. (Psalm 31:24-32:1). TheBibleused the phrase good courage 16 times. We can infer from that that there are good and bad courage. Joshua had good courage, and was able to take the children of Israel to the Promised Land. David the shepherd boy was courageous enough to dare the Philistines and their champion Goliath, and overcame them.Jezebel, the wife of Ahab was courageous too but in the wrong manner. But she used her audacity in a murderous way and killed many prophets of God. Amnon had a bad courage, and that led him to dele his half-sister. Young Joseph was noble enough to resist temptation from the wife of Potiphar. Todays youngsters should emulate the lifestyle of Joseph, and have the courage to resist evil suggestions from their peers and sinners. Young people must have the valor to do good things, not bad things. God is a God of courage. Courage is the quality that enables us to rise up to any challenge without giving way to fear or defeat. Godly courage manifests itself in our speech and action, it springs from the heart. Those with godly courage are the people that achieve something for God and, their generation. The Lord told Joshua after he had taken over from Moses:Be strong and of a good courage; be not afraid, neither be thou dismayed: for the Lord thy God is with thee whithersoever thou goest(Joshua 1:9). Courage keeps us going when others are retreating. Valor fuels our passion and strengthens our vision. Courageous youths are never intimidated by any subject or situation. True children of God will never allow fear to take them hostage. The fear of failure does not have its grip upon them. Courage liberates and allows God's given talents to be used eectively. Godly courage is a force which no enemy army can crush, it always conquers!
Challenge: The great are they who attempt the dicult things, which lesser men avoid. Prayer: O Lord, keep me courageous. 87

24th March

SUCCESS STARTS WITH SOMETHING SMALL

Though thy beginning was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase (Job 8: 7).

Vast majority of humanity are oblivious of the fact that a long journey to any to any destination can be covered by taking one step at a time regardless of the shortness of each pace on the way. The Biblecounsels believers not despise small things.For who hath despised the day of small things?(Zechariah4:10). We must always remember that a year is built up by seconds that accumulated into minutes, then hours, days, weeks, and months. As long as the earth does not cease to exist, years will pass into histories of decades, and then centuries. When you take a step at a time, or read a page at time in your notes, you are on the right path on to realizing your goal. Since you do not eat a plate of rice at a time but take a spoonful at a time. You should therefore not be afraid of volumes of book to read.
Challenge: Tall oaks grow from little acorns. Prayer: Keep me moving forward on the track of success, dear Lord,

88

25th March

NO WAITING
And Caleb stilled the people before Moses, and said, Let us go up at once, and possess it; for we are well able to overcome it. (Number13:30).

Delay is dangerous. That is the common phrase. Today, there are streams of opportunities which are laid with challenges ahead of you. You must therefore spring into action and remember that most people who sit waiting for their ship to come in often nd that such ship is a called "hardship." There is no room for procrastination because no farmer ever ploughed a eld by turning it over in his mind. Seize the good opening to be godly progressive today. Someone has said "in the opportunity, it is better to pick the fruit than to wait for fall". Does the Biblenot say, He that observeth the wind shall not sow; and he that regardeth the clouds shall not reap.(Ecclesiastes11:4) Therefore, do not allow laziness to hold you back, because the lazier a person is, the more limited his future breakthrough will be.Remember, no food for lazy man.Those who wait unnecessarily or procrastinate, provide the fertilizer that makes dicult to grow. This is the day of opportunity for you:let us go once and possess it. There is no other easier way to great success. There is no more excuse for delay. Remember, procrastination is the grave where opportunities are buried!

Challenge: Never leave until tomorrow what you ought to do today. Prayer: Lord, give me courage to act opportunities.

89

26th March
THE LADDER OF SUCCESS The hand of the diligent shall bear rule; but the slothful shall be under tribute. (Proverb12:24).

There is a sure and steady way to rise in the ladder of life. This is the way of diligence in common duties of life. Many are waiting until a big task is entrusted upon their shoulders before they can prove their mettle. They assume that you can only demonstrate diligence when you are entrusted with greater responsibilities. Such people realize too late that they have missed great chances to imprint their values on the sands of time. For others, they are waiting for what people regard as important assignments before they apply themselves to diligence. They fail to recognize that it is the small and common duties of life that develop character and shape the society. The person who succeeds in life is the one who does these common duties uncommonly. A responsible boy will weed his surroundings, wash his clothes, wash the family car and do his homework very well. A nice girl will keep the house tidy, help mummy in the kitchen, and face her studies squarely. She seeks for better ways of achieving better results. Joseph performed the tasks of a slave very well that he was recognized by his master; he even so impressed in the prison that he was noted by his fellow prisoners and prison authorities as extraordinary. Little but common duties of kindness to others, compliments to others, personal hygiene and respect for others are sure steps to climb up the ladder of success. A message faithfully delivered, an account of money honestly given, a report of events sincerely given are all common duties that lead to promotion. Therefore, dare to stand out of the crowd today by doing the common things uncommonly. Apply yourself only to excellence, and add the needed "extras" to the ordinary drudgery of duties today. It is the extras that make the dierence and you can do it. Put in the extra eort to get that assignment perfected, you can do it.
Challenge: The person who succeeds in life is the one who does common duties uncommonly. Prayer: Lord, help me to apply myself to excellence in the little things of life. 90

27th March

SHINNING LIVES
... Thou shalt shine forth; thou shalt be as the morning. Job 11: 17

Darkness is hardly welcomed by the majority of people. During darkness, an object is not easily visible. Wherever darkness exists, accidents are not far away. Good things can rarely be dierentiated from bad ones when there is darkness. But a little spark of light makes the dierence. This is exactly what God intends you tobe.. shining light! But remember that the source of all true light is God through the Lord Jesus Christ. If you therefore have Jesus as your Savior, you are expected to shine. Indeed God's promise is that Thou shall shine forth ..No matter the darkness of sin, sickness and evil around, you will shine. The darkness of the night does not hinder the shining of the stars. Stars are designed to shine. So are you. So, no darkness will eclipse you! As the morning is serene, refreshing and very promising, so is your life expected to be. Jesus is the Light. Emulate Him and you will keep on shining. Keep His words and you will be as the morning. Today, no matter the thickness of the darkness all around you keep Jesus and stand out. No matter the persecution, keep God's promises and shine forth. You can shine and you must outshine others around you.
Challenge: The sun does not struggle to shine because shining is its

nature.

Prayer: Keep me shining, O Lord God.

91

28th March

BLAME NOT
And the man said, the woman whom thou gavest to be with me, she gave me of the tree, and I did eat And the woman said, the serpent beguiled me, and I did eat. (Genesis3:12, 13)

One of the biggest problems of man is shifting blames. We blame others for our fate. Our teachers, school, parents and peers are often the object of blame, when we do not pass our examinations. We often shift the blame on others when things go wrong with us to justify our failures. But each time we shift the blame on others, we lose the opportunity of learning to perform better. We tend to send signal that we are not responsible for the error committed. We need to know that each time we point an accusing nger at someone, more ngers are pointing back at us. The more we shift blames on others, the more we suer blunders of misdeeds and wrong actions. When you blame your weak performance on the teaching methods of your teacher, you will not see the need to work harder for a better performance. Nobody is above mistake. Do not be afraid of the blame that might follow any error or mistake in your academic pursuits, or be scared of failure. Do not try to play safe attempting easy tasks. Remember, cowards can never be champion He cannot attempt the impossible will not attain the incredible. You cannot rise to greatness attempting only easy tasks. Great tasks are for great trainees, who do not fear the blame or shame that will follow any mistakes they might make in their attempts to attain the incredible. Be determined like Thomas Edison who, though he several
Challenge: See failure as feedbacks and blame as blessing.

faults.

Prayer: Help me Oh God to always accept responsibility for my

92

29th March

PRICE OF IGNORANCE
My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shall be no priest to me; seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will forget thy children. (Hosea4:6).

God hates ignorance. If you have any doubt about this, read again the verse above and think of the full implication of what God said. As you go out and do all the things you must, remember to think seriously of the message from God concerning the price of lack of knowledge. 1. Ignorance is costly. God says that the reason why His people are destroyed is because of their ignorance. How true the observation of God! Just as ignorance of germs, and other bacterial and viral infections (HIV, malaria, bird u, swine u etc.) have killed many people, so does ignorance of Gods word 2. Ignorance can kill. Lack of knowledge of God killed the people of Bethshemesh when they tried to peep into the ark of the Lord. Ignorance can still kill people today. 3. Ignorance is a choice. God was sad that His people rejected knowledge. The decision to reject knowledge was a choice for ignorance. A choice for ignorance is a rejection of knowledge and correct information about God always go a long way in making us wise. 4. Ignorance will aect the coming generation. God said He would not just reject Israel but would forget her children. The present generation would suer and the coming generation too will not escape its consequence. 5. You must not be ignorant of the word of God. Make it a habit to read yourBibleevery day and obey it. Luckily for you, you are already on the right track. Your desire and ability to read this daily devotional is an evidence of your good intention. Keep it up.
Challenge: Learning is a treasure that will follow its ownereverywhere. Prayer: Help me dear Lord to read your word and do the things that

will make me more knowledgeable about your truth.

93

30th March

DONT BE LAZY
He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich. (Proverbs 10:4.)

Laziness and labor are two opposite words. It seems a pleasurable thing to be lazy but the reverse is the case when it comes to reality. A sluggish person is burdened with needs and wants at the end of the day. John Mason describes it plainly, Laziness is a load. Expectation is idle mans income. Nothing is more exhausting than searching for easy ways to earn living. There is no short cut to success. Nobody stumbles on realistic achievements. Develop the virtue of diligence and dont be a slothful student.He that tilleth his land shall have plenty of bread: but he that followeth after vain persons shall have poverty enough. (Proverbs 28:19). Any student who wants to make a success of his or her academic career must learn to work for it, and avoid following vain boys and girls without future ambition. The lazy student does his work with a slack hand. He postpones what he should do promptly, sleeps when he should study, roam about when he should read well before examinations; procrastinate when he should prepare for success. They do not plow the land but want to gather in summer; and sleep during harvest periods and still desire to be satised with bread. It does not work that way! They need to wake to the reality that,he that gathereth by labor shall increaseand that,the hand of the diligent maketh rich.
Challenge: If wishes were horses, then beggars would ride. Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to be to study to be hardworking.

94

31st March

ADMIRATION FROM THE ADVERSARY

But it came to pass, that when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall, he was worth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews.. Now Tobiah the Ammonite was by him, and he said, Even that which they build, if a fox go up, he shall even break down their stone wall. (Nehemiah4:1,3)

Sanballat and Tobiah were notorious adversaries of the Jews. They opposed Nehemiah and his brethren in their resolve and commitment to rebuild the broken walls of Jerusalem. Nehemiah and his compatriots laudable project and determination attracted envy instead of admiration for their enemies. They mocked, despised and confronted Nehemiah and his builders. But they were never moved by their tactics. Contemporary believers, young or old have great lessons to from this noble Nehemiah. Despite all their evil devices to discourage Gods people, Nehemiah replied his adversaries: The God of heaven, he will prosper us; therefore we his servants will arise and build: but ye have no portion, nor right, nor memorial, in Jerusalem(Nehemiah 2:20). Provocation and confrontation is the usual weapon of the enemies of Gods people. It is also the strategy normally used against serious students who are focused on their studies and fellowship with God. The ultimate goal is weaken, discourage and hamper their studies and their relationship with God. Nobody in his right mind will throw stones or sticks at fruitless orange or mango tree. So, exceptional students should expect envy, even persecution from their colleagues, and sometimes teachers. When you stand out in your spiritual and academic life, you must expect the usual comments of the critics. If you do not want students to criticize you, then stop doing something worthwhile. Nobody tries to molest a student who knows nothing, does nothing and who does not pose any challenge to anyone. Nehemiah and his people continued in the good work they were doing in spite of the vehement criticism and violent confrontations from their antagonists. Cheer up and march on with courage when people criticize your good actions. You will perform better and achieve more in your life's endeavors when you regard criticism and opposition from the adversaries as compliment and admiration from whichever angle it comes. Your critics are merely drawing attention to your special and outstanding commitments to your God and studies. So, remain faithful and you will continue to attract the favor of your God.
Challenge: Great ideas cause conicts and attract criticism. Prayer: Dear Lord, give me courage to march forward in the midst of criticism.

95

1st April

HELP FOR THE FEEBLE KNEES

Wherefore lift up the hands which hang down, and the feeble knees. (Hebrews12:12).

The verse above is actually more or less a repetition of Isaiah 35:3. There, Prophet Isaiah said Strengthen ye the weak hands, and conrm the feeble knees.So you see this idea is mentioned in the Old Testament and repeated in the New Testament.Feeble knees belong to people who are tired and discouraged. It is possible you have felt like this before when:

You worked so hard and did so well in a test, but it was not
recorded for your nal examinations.

You woke up late, missed your transport to school and eventually

arrived late in class only to discover you missed a crucial test.

You were given a big sum of money as gift but you lost it! You volunteered to help your younger ones with kitchen work
but broke Daddysfavoritecup while you were washing plates.

You burnt the food you were cooking for the second time today! You scored a very low grade in your best subject. The ice cream you just bought fell o your hand into the trash
bin and you didnt have any other money! You have a role to play in the lives of people who are helpless and discouraged. You can lift them up! The feeble knees are wobbling they need help, make them to stand well and stand rm! When you were discouraged you felt sad and lonely. That is exactly how people with feeble knees are feeling right now. Talk to them. Say nice things to them. Say good things about them and say things that will make them smile again. That is part of what God will want you to do for them. Surely you will not disappoint Him. You will help the feeble knees today!
Challenge: We all need help from one another. Prayer: Please help me Father to be a source of encouragement to

somebody today.

96

2nd April

ROBE FOR THE PRODIGAL

But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet. (Luke 15:22).

The returning prodigal son should have counted himself lucky that he was allowed back home at all. Only few people would have appreciated such a return. But this father was a dierent father. He not only welcomed the prodigal happily, but showered him withgiftsalmost immediately. Imagine the big surprise that would be on the boys face as the Father gave him the best robe in the house. What kind of father is this? Everyone who is bornagaintoday was once a prodigal. We wasted our heavenly Fathers love and resources like many unsaved people are still doing. We used our talents and abilities to serve ourselves and please our esh. Many of us came to Christ as a result of the crises that erupted in our lives because of our lifestyles. Yet in His innite love and mercy, God did not consider our previous records when we came to the Cross. In the words of Paul to Titus,Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost.(Titus3:5). It is not an accident that the Father reserved the best of robes for the prodigal. That is His way. He always gives the best to His own because His power is made perfect in weakness. He said in Jeremiah 29:11: For I know the thoughts that I think toward you, saith the LORD, thoughts of peace, and not of evil, to give you an expected end.Like the prodigal, you too can come to the Lord today and the Father will assuredly give you the best robe in the house.
Challenge: You will never be your best until you meet Jesus. Prayer: Help me Lord to realize the blessings that are available for

me inChrist.

97

3rd April

TEACHER OF REBELLION
Therefore thus saith the LORD; Behold, I will punish Shemaiah the Nehelamite, and his seed: he shall not have a man to dwell among this people; neither shall he behold the good that I will do for my people, saith the LORD; because he hath taught rebellion against the LORD. (Jeremiah 29:32)

Teachers are responsible people. Teachers are the people God used to make you read this devotional piece. They were the ones who taught you how to read and write. Thank God for teachers, because without them life would not have been the same. In view of the important role they play not only in our individual lives but in the society generally, teachers should be people whose lives must be good for others to emulate. We call such people role models. A teacher should be a good role model. Shemaiah however was not a good teacher. In the passage above we read that God was not happy with him because he taught the people rebellion. To teach rebellion is bad enough. But it is most awful to teach people rebellion against the Lord? That is why all of us must learn from this warning: as the sin of witchcraft. Separate yourself from such people.

Beware of people who disobey the word of God. Disobedience is Beware of people who make fun of Gods people or His word.
Some people see nothing good in Christians. They like to make fun of the way Christians dress, live or pray. Do not allow yourself to be used or moved by such individuals.

Beware of those who tell you not to pray or read your Bible.

Those who try to make you separate yourself from the people of God are looking for those whom they will teach to rebel against the Lord. Surely you will not join them.

Be a good example to all.

Challenge: A teacher aects eternity: he can never tell where his inuence stops. Henry B. Adams.

today.

Prayer: Lord, please help me to be a teacher of good things to people 98

4th April

I AM CARNAL
For we know that the law is spiritual: but I am carnal, sold under sin. (Romans 7:14)

It is said that self-knowledge is the best knowledge. Do you know yourself? Do you know who you are? Others know you by what name you gave them. Your classmates know you by what name is in the school register. Neighbors know you by what name they hear people call you. Friends know you by what you told them. But you who told so many people about yourself, do you know who you are? Paul was truthful in his self-discovery. He did not hide under any report others could have given him. The Jews do not see anything wrong in his life. To the Pharisees and other Jewish leaders of his days Saul, as he was called then, was a very zealous man. They saw nothing wrong with him. They took him as a serious worshipper. But after his encounter with Jesus, Paul became another man. He looked back at his life and shook his head at the lucky break he had. He realized he was not whom he thought he was.He was carnal and people thought he was alright! If you are seductive, you are in the esh. You may be going to church but you are not yet a candidate for heaven. Carnal Christians are sinning Christians. Sinning Christians are hell-bound sons of Abraham. Face the fact of your carnality today and repent and yield your life fully to Christ and He will save you from self, sin and Satan.
Challenge: When a man who professes to be converted says that he goes into the world and into sin for pleasure, it is as if an angel went to hell for enjoyment. Charles Spurgeon. Prayer: Create in me a clean heart O Lord in Jesus name.

99

5th April

THANK YOU, LORD

But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. (1 Corinthians15:57)

Join the children of God all over the world who are thanking God today for the opportunity that He has given us to belong to Him. Paul showed us the need and the reasons for such a gratitude to God. First, we thank God for the victory that He gave us through Jesus Christ by His life and death. It is a historical fact that Jesus is the source of our victory by His death on the cross of Calvary. The Cross is the symbol of our victory because Satan has no answer to that. Secondly we thank God for the triumph that we continue to enjoy through the Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus was crucied on the Cross but He did not remain there. He died and rose again from the dead. His resurrection is a fact. This is the reason for our thanksgiving. Jesus purchased continuous victory for us by His resurrection. Thirdly, we oer our appreciation to God for the victory that is all encompassing. The win on the cross is not only over sin. It covers sicknesses, shame and satanic aiction. Our victory is also not temporary but permanent. Our reasons for thanking God are not just because we have nothing to do. Appreciating God is a full time business because the Lord our God has been our helper and guide. Say a big thank you to God today too. He deserves your appreciation.
Challenge: The occupation of saints is praise. Prayer: Thank you Lord for all that you have done for me.

100

6th April

TALK AND WALK THE WALK

If we say that we have fellowship with him, and walk in darkness, we lie, and do not the truth. (1 John 1:6)

Do what I say, not what I do is a sentence you probably have heard before. Whenever people say this, their intentions are clear. They are admitting that they are not living like they should. They are saying good things, but are not doing the good things that they are talking about. You should not be like them. You must talk the talk, and walk the walk! Our verse for meditation today draws our attention to the importance of doing what we say.If we say one thing, and we walk contrary to what we say, then we are liars. We should do the right things. We should be good examples to others because we also like to have people do what they say. When we do not do what we say, we become unreliable and our words will not amount to much. The message that our actions will be passing on to people will make them not to trust us. We are suggesting to people that our words are not dependable. Our words must agree with our works. Jesus wants our yes to be yes and no to be no. That is how it should be. What our words condemn, our practice must not excuse. For example we should not just speak against examination malpractice; we must make sure that we do not indulge in it. If we promise our parents that we will work hard in our studies, then we must. If we say it, then we must do it. That is the way to live like a Christian. That is how to live for God. Will you?
Challenge: Be a person of your words. Prayer: Lord, please help me to do all that I need to do today for your glory.

101

7th April

CYBER-BULLYING KILLS
For I have heard the slander of many: fear was on every side: while they took counsel together against me, they devised to take away my life. (Psalms 1:13)

If you love the net, watch out. The internet has come to stay but so are the dangers and negative practices associated with it. Our advice to you today is to beware of cyber-bullying! What is cyber-bullying? Cyber-bullying is when someone uses email, instant messaging, mobile phones, websites, or other information technology to deliberately defame, threaten, insult, or intimidate someone. A tragic case took place in 2007. A boy befriended 13-year-old Megan Meier of Missouri on MySpace, and Megan fell for a cruel hoax. The Associated Press reported that after a few weeks the boy, or someone using the account, started sending cruel messages such as Megan Meier is a slut. Megan Meier is fat.As a result, Megan was troubled. She couldn't understand why this was happening, and sank into depression. One day her mother found Megan's body slumped in a bedroom closet. She had killed herself. Six weeks later, Megan's family found that the boy had never existed. It was a fake account, created by a mother and daughter who knew Megan. You should not indulge in cyber-bullying. It is a wicked thing to do as it is capable of hurting, even taking someones life. But it is even more important to realize that much of the communication that takes place on the internet is bizarre. The devil is still spreading slander on the net and you need to know that to protect yourself, your family and your faith. Dont bully and dont subject yourself to getting bullied. You can cut o communication with anyone with a click of your mouse. Do it when necessary and you will save yourself a lot of pains. Remember, cyber-bullying is dangerous!
Challenge: O, what a tangled web we weave, when rst we practice to deceive! Sir Walter Scott. Prayer: Help me dear Lord to tell the truth and live in your fear

today.

102

8th April

MYSTERY MEN
And he said unto them, Unto you it is given to know the mystery of the kingdom of God: but unto them that are without, all these things are done in parables. (Mark 4:11).

Have you ever wondered why two people will hear the same message and one will get saved but the other will not? Have you ever wondered why two children born to believing parents will grow up in the same family but have dierent attitudes to the word of God? Have you even wondered why you are reading a devotional like this while others around you are not interested? Well, its because there are some mystery men of Jesus. The mystery men are those who take advantage of the grace of God and humble themselves before the Word of God. Grace captures them faster and quickly. Good news is that you are one of them. Praise the Lord! Mystery men of God are not mystics in the worldly sense. Mystics remind one of long, white beards and owing robes; of turbans and faces frowning at everyone looking at their pictures. A mystery man of God is someone who believes while others doubt, trusts God when others care less and honors God while othersdishonorHim. They are the Samuels who grew up in a corrupt Shiloh without being corrupted. They are the Daniels of Kings College in Babylon. They are the Esthers of Shusan and the Josephs of Egypt. Why were they dierent? It must have to do with their choices. They chose to know and do more of the things of God. Their choices paid o as they became transformed individuals who were able to transform their world. I pray that the Lord grant you also the grace to chart a mystery course for God today.
Challenge: Every human creature is constituted to be a profound secret and mystery to every other. Charles Dickens Prayer: Help me Father to identify fully with you in all that I will do today.

103

9th April

CHANGE!
Behold, I shew you a mystery; We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed. (1 Corinthians15:51).

We shall all be changed! The old shall change and the young shall change. Someone said that the only permanent thing about life is change. How about that? That is the plan and purpose of God for man. He wants us changed. What a glorious thought to remind ourselves that we must change. But we must not just change; we should change for the better. God is calling everyone to change because we all started our journey in life as sinners. A change must take place to move us from sinners colony to saints camp. We must change. All of us started our journey in life as weak and helpless babies. We grew and became who we are today because we changed. Such positive change must continue to take place in our lives. Unfortunately some are changing negatively. They used to love Jesus but now they have changed. They do not love him anymore. Some used to be very good in their studies. A negative change turned them from academic wizards to weak students. Some used to be morally sound and upright but unfortunately have changed to become a shame to their community, school, church and parents. I pray that you will never change for evil in Jesus name. Change will bring the best of God in you as you too like Apostle Paul will be able to say: But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord. (2 Corinthians 3:18)
Challenge: Every moment of ones existence, one is growing into more or retreating into less. One is always living a little more or dying a little bit. Norman Mailer Prayer: Lord, help me to change for the better today.

104

10th April

I WILL KEEP MY MOUTH WITH A BRIDLE

I said, I will take heed to my ways, that I sin not with my tongue: I will keep my mouth with a bridle, while the wicked is before me. (Psalms 39:1)

Todays verse for meditation is a serious prayer of David. It is also a good prayer that you should pray. Indeed, it is a prayer that all serious heaven-bound children of God have been praying from time immemorial. Why? This is because needless discussions and conversations have done a lot of havoc to Christians. The list is endless, just consider these:

Ten grown up princes of Israel forfeited a chance to reach Canaan

and in the process turned a forty day journey into a forty year wandering in the wilderness because of the misuse of the tongue. way she talked to David.

Michal, the wife of David became barren for life because of the Forty two children who mocked Elisha were all killed by a bear.
It takes the grace of God on our part to keep our mouth shut especially when we feel we have a strong point to make. Yet it is those very words we feel we must say that may put us in trouble. As you go out today, let the Bible be your guide. Pray like David and ask God to help you so that you too will keep your mouth with a bridle, especially when the wicked and unbelieving people are before you. Pray that God will grant you the grace to be a wise person in your words today.
Challenge: I have often repented speaking, but never of holding

my tongue.

Prayer: Please help me Father tolistenmore and keep silent more today in Jesus name.

105

11th April

GODS WONDERFUL CREATION

O LORD, how manifold are thy works! In wisdom hast thou made them all: the earth is full of thy riches. (Psalms 104:24)

Have you noticed that God made a very beautiful world? His ways are simply great and it is when we look carefully that we will be able to see an emerging pattern of wonder in Gods creation. For instance, you know that God made the world in six days and rested on the seventh day, making the whole days seven. Now consider these other facts about sevens of creation:

the eggs of the potato bug hatch in 7 days; those of the canary in 14 days; those of the hen in 21 days; the eggs of ducks and geese hatch in 28 days; those of the mallard (wild duck) in 35 days; the eggs of the parrot and the ostrich hatch in 42 days.

Note that all those gures are divisible by seven. Why did God plan them like that? God made everything in His wisdom and for His glory. Make no mistake about it; the earth is full of Gods riches. The stars above, the ground beneath and even the air we breathe are all part of Gods network of beauty to remind us of His love and care. As you step out of your house today look around you and see the beauty that the God of creation put in His world. See the predictability of the sun, the reliability of fresh air and the universality of rainfall and say thank you to the King who made them all. Praise the Lord.
Challenge: Fear the man who fears not God. Prayer: Thank You Lord for making such a beautiful world.

106

12th April

HOW TO BE HAPPY
If ye know these things, happy are ye if ye do them. (John 13:17)

Smile - Smiling can make you feel happier. Many studies have shown that whether we look at the faces of smiling people, or start to smile ourselves, it's enough to improve the disposition of most of us. As you go out today, remember to smile. Say something nice about someone- It's always nice when people show genuine appreciation of something we have done. It's great if people acknowledge our eort. It works in reverse too. If you say something nice in appreciation of someone else's eorts it will help both of you. Note: Overdoing compliments may be taken as insincere or attery, so don't overdo it! And please be careful in paying compliments to the opposite sex as it could be easily misunderstood.]

It is good to know that God wants you to be happy. Jesus has been teaching His disciples for some time now and wanted them to be happy. So can you. Here are a few facts that can help you live a happy life as a child of God.

Do something nice for someone - Doing things for people who need your help lifts up most people more than nancial rewards. Volunteer your services for others. Be a part of the workforce in your church. Help run a local boy scouts group. Help out at schools, hospitals, anywhere there is a need. Doing something nice for someone who needs help will take your mind o your own troubles and help your spirits soar!

Thank God for as many things as you can think of - Find time to thank God for things. Thank Him for what you have, or have had: family, friends, memories, church, talents, interests, clothes, food, rain, sunshine, somewhere to sleep, and whatever.
At rst, some people nd this dicult, but once you start you will be amazed at how many things you can thank God your Creator for. This is a sure way to reduce cynicism and helps you think positive.
Challenge: Even if happiness forgets you a little bit, never completely

forget about it. Jacques Prvert

Prayer: Thank You Lord for giving me reasons and opportunities to be happy in You today. 107

13th April

THE GOLDEN RULE

Therefore all things whatsoever ye would that men should do to you, do ye even so to them: for this is the law and the prophets. (Matthew 7:12).

You can make a dierence in the lives of all the people you will come across today. You can make them happy, joyful and fruitful if you will do to them what you want them to do to you. You are to take the initiative. Start rst and allow them tojoin you as you joyfully set the pace doing the following: 1. Stop complaining - Do not be a critic; we have enough of them already. The government wastes money, the local authorities make things hard for us, public transportation is inadequate, the roads are not repaired quickly, the weather is hot, or cold, or it is rainy, or dry. Try to spend today without complaints. Whenever you are tempted to complain about something during the day, stop yourself, and weigh whether your complaint is necessary or whether it will ever solve the problem? Avoid complaining today. It is possible. 2. Spend time with someone happy - People who have a positive attitude to life seem to exude natural happiness. If you spend time with one or more of these people you will nd that their happiness will rub o on you. Who is the happiest person you are likely to meet today? Find that person as soon as you can and spend some time with them. Hang around people who laugh easily, or who have a constant smile, or who have a positive attitude towards life. Try to catch some of their happiness for your own use! 3. Start doing well - TheBibledoes not put the onus of a change on your partner. You can start rst. Try to do therightthing, and you are more likely tostayout of trouble. And this will denitely make you happier than following the troublemaker's road. Read some of the Psalms and Proverbs in theBible. When you nd a verse that helps you personally, memorize it. Have a wonderfully fullling day!
Challenge: Everycharitableact is a stepping stone towards heaven. Prayer: Please help me Lord to be considerate of other people in all I do today. 108

14th April

WHOLESOME WORDS OF A FATHER

My son, if thou wilt receive my words, and hide my commandments with thee; Let them notdepart from thine eyes; keep them in the midst of thine heart. (Proverbs 2:1; 4:21).

It is customary for parents to train up their children for a better future. Wise children are obedient to parental tutelage which may take the form of caring, correction, or chastisement. Parental instructions may not always be pleasant to our youthful exuberance. Wisdom however consists in taking to the wholesome words of our parents. These parents are many years older and are more experienced in life. We learn from their wealth of experience by listening to them and emulating their exemplary lifestyle. We utilize their richly acquired knowledge by obeying their instructions. You must always remember that obedience to our parents in the Lord is the rst commandment with promise (Ephesians 6: 1, 2). The Bible says, A wise son heareth his father's instruction: but a scorner heareth not rebuke. (Proverbs 13:1) Your response to parental instructions has much to contribute to your future prospects and progress. Great men are in the making, who willingly submits to parental training like Joseph and Moses; especially when their parents are in the Lord. Disobedience breeds rebellion. The Christian youth grows to be responsible as a promising leader, when he learns to be obedient to the word of God and submissive to his parents in the Lord. Much benet awaits you as you begin to appreciate your parents by listening to their wholesome words of wisdom.
Challenge: Obedience is better than sacrice.

parents.

Prayer: Help me dear Lord, to be humble and obedient to my

109

15th April

AGAIN, GIVE THANKS

O give thanks unto the LORD; call upon his name: make known his deeds among the people. Sing unto him, sing psalms unto him; talk ye of all his wondrous works. (Psalm 105:1, 2).

To give thanks is to be grateful, appreciative and to show gratitude. An expression of thanks usually leads to exchange of pleasantries, compliments and sharing of happiness. Thanksgiving is an act that is known to thrive in the atmosphere of peace with joyful comportment. Thanks comes from a merry heart and is good for your physical and spiritual health(Proverbs 17:22). It is the practice of Gods children to give thanks and rejoice in the presence of the Lord. It is always characterized with singing, edifying and positive comments. Believers who learn to give thanks live for Gods glory. Each time a child expresses thanks to his father, he prepares the ground to receive more. Have you said Thank you to God today? Our God deserves every bit of our thanks and praises. We must live to be grateful to God by talking of His goodness and thank Him for His wondrous works to the children of men. Thank God for your life, parents, brothers and sisters and His good plans for your future. Do not forget to be grateful to your parents too, as you relate with them day by day. Learn to say, Thank you dad,Thank you mum, each time you receive money or anything for your upkeep. Be thankful to your friends too as you share the good things of life together. The Bible says, In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. (1 Thessalonians 5:18)
Challenge: He who gives thanks makes life to blossom. Prayer: Help me dear Lord, to be very grateful to you.

110

16th April

GOSPEL OF PEACE
How beautiful are the feet of them that preach the gospel of peace, and bring glad tidings of good things! (Romans 10:15).

Christs gospel is here described as the gospel of peace, glad tidings and of good things. It contains the message of good news of the Savior who died for sinners. The gospel messengers are ambassadors of peace and good tidings. In the words of Isaiah the prophet, How beautiful upon the mountain are the feet of him that bringeth good tidings, that publisheth peace; that bringeth good tidings of good, that publisheth salvation. (Isaiah 52:7). Christs gospel hence goes forth with the message of salvation, which comes by making peace with God. Jesus Christ is the Prince of peace and the only one that can broker peace between God and man (Ephesians 2:13-18). There is no other way to heaven but Jesus for, there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved. (John 14:6; Acts4:12). You need Jesus in your life. Genuine salvation in Christ guarantees you lasting peace and the blessing of good things. You can be saved now if you willingly confess your sins to God and surrender your life to Jesus (Proverbs 28:13; Romans 10:9, 10).
Challenge: Perfect peace comes through Christ, the Prince of Peace

Jesus

Prayer: Dear Lord, save me from my sins as I turn over my life to

111

17th April

THE HAND OF THE DILIGENT

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

The head, heart and hand are important parts of the body. Creative powers in man are made manifest by eective coordination of these three parts. Psychologists refer to the mental activities of the head, the motive/emotive activities of the heart and the manipulative activities of the hand. These are called cognitive, aective and psycho-motor domains respectively. Creative skills are displayed by the hand of any man who can coordinate and correlate eectively the mental pictures in the head with the understanding in the heart. Creative skills are exhibited by the hands of an innovative youth to facilitate productivity. Innovations come by appropriate generation of ideas gathered through adequate information. What dierentiates the winner from the looser is ability to make use of information to generate ideas for creativity. The former is usually diligent to turn his ideas into innovations while the latter works with slack hands. When the winner takes appropriate actions to actualize his goals, the loser is weary of pursuing his goals. Diligent students grow to be great achievers because they usually do their work with meticulousness and concision. There is wisdom in being diligent. A prudent student is a potential success.
Challenge: Diligence comes by discipline and dutifulness. Prayer: Help me to be diligent in doing my work, Oh God

112

18th April

THE PROMISE OF A GOOD SUCCESS

and then thou shalt have good success (Joshua 1: 8.)

Gods promises are yea and amen. This means that they can never be altered or changed. They abide forever. The Lord is faithful in keeping every covenant He makes with His people. Check up in the whole Bible, God fullled His promises to faithful saints like Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, David and to the whole house of Israel. King Solomon by the inspiration of the Spirit said, Blessed be the LORD, that hath given rest unto his people Israel, according to all that he promised: there hath not failed one word of all his good promise, which he promised by the hand of Moses his servant .(1 Kings 8: 56) God has promised all His children a good success. A careful consideration of todays promise, however, shows that there are certain conditions attached to it. The text states, This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success.This promise is sure and certain for believers who will fulll the conditions that are embedded in the verse. You can also enjoy the promise of a good success too, if you are willing to meet the conditions. You must rst respond positively to Gods call to repentance and salvation to lay a good foundation for your success. With God as your Principal Partner on the path of progress, pursue your goals with diligence, discipline, and determination. A good success awaits you if you will be rugged to climb up the rough road of success till you reach your goal.
Challenge: Gods promises are not without conditions. Prayer: Heavenly Father, keep me obedient to you and your words as I press on to reach my goals.

113

19th April

PERILOUS LITTLE FOXES

Take us the foxes, the little foxes, that spoil the vines: for our vines have tender grapes. (Song of Solomon 2:15).

The word of God talks much of little things and their dangers. You might have read in the Bible about the little leaven that leaveneth the whole lump (1 Corinthians 5:6); the little folly that spoils the reputation of him that is in reputation for wisdom and honor (Ecclesiastes 10:1) and the little foxes that spoil the vine as we can see in our text for meditation today. These things tend to manifest in insignicant ways in our lives but turn to become great destroyers at the end of the day. We learn of the tongue in James: a little member, a little re, that setteth on re the course of nature; and it is set on re of hell. (James 3: 5, 6). We understood then that what we think is a little thing can be so perilous to our lives and future hopes. Christian students should beware of such habits that may manifest in their lives in subtle little ways before they degenerate into perilous mind-set. You must beware of a little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to sleep. (Proverbs 24:33). Some other things you may not count to be dangerous include lateness to school, procrastination or postponement of what you should do promptly, over-eating or gluttony, truancy and slothfulness. As wise success hopefuls, we must be smart to overcome anything that may inhibit our progress, however little they may appear to be.
Challenge: Beware of little things. Prayer: Help me to overcome every little thing that subtly attempts to destroy my life and progress.

114

20th April

THE WHOLE DUTY OF MAN

Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. (Ecclesiastes 12: 13).

The book of Ecclesiastes in the Old Testament is otherwise called The Preacher. This book was written by Solomon, the wisest king in Israel. By the inspiration of God, The preacher sought to nd out acceptable words: and that which was written was upright, even words of truth. And moreover, because the preacher was wise, he still taught the people knowledge; yea, he gave good heed, and sought out, and set in order many proverbs (Ecclesiastes 12:10, 9). It is obvious from here that this preacher was a researcher who carried out much survey work to establish his facts and the truth. Todays text attests to the ageless truth on what should be the ultimate preoccupation of man in relating with God, his maker. This is to fear God and keep His commandments. The scriptures reveal that, The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments; and also that, the fear of the Lord, that is wisdom; and to depart from evil is understanding. (Psalm 111: 10; Job 28: 28). To fear God is to depart from evil, obey God, walk in His way and do His will in all areas of your life. The fear of the LORD is to hate evil: pride, and arrogance, and the evil way, and the froward mouth. And, Blessed is every one that feareth the LORD; that walketh in His ways. (Proverbs 8:13; Psalm 128:1) Youths who live in pleasure of sin have no place for God, and are in danger of eternal perdition. The blessed and best way to achievement is to live in Christ. You can begin to march on this way of progress today by giving your life to Christ and accepting Him as your Lord.
Challenge: Give God the rst place in your life. Prayer: Help me O God to give you the best position in my life pursuits.

115

21st April

WORK WELL, WORK WISELY

come, and let us build up the wall of Jerusalem, that we be no more a reproach (Nehemiah 2:17)

An anonymous writer once advised: A good thing to remember/ A better thing to do/ Work with the construction gang/ Not with wrecking crew. Most youths tend to be ignorant of the danger in moving with the detractors whose concern is to punch holes on what others have done. Youths who spend their time criticizing pessimistically what others have done may have no time left to commend peoples achievements. Destructive critics are not usually constructive. They are rather cynical, upsetting and unhelpful in speech and in action. Be in the right camp, keep protable company; and work with constructive crew instead of moving with wrecking crew Gods word says, He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. (Proverbs 13:20). The true way to progress is to walk with purpose-driven students and not with faultnders. Youve got to be very selective in the choice of your friends, study group and playmates. Birds of the same feather will always ock together is a wise saying that you must heed. The students you choose as associates will surely have great inuence on your academic pursuit. Work with serious minded students and you will enjoy the success of a winning team
Challenge: Evil communication corrupts good manner. Prayer: Dear Lord, give me enough courage and stamina to walk with wise achievers.

116

22nd April

TOGETHER FOR GOD

And Noah went in, and his sons, and his wife, and his sons' wives with him, into the ark, because of the waters of the flood. (Genesis 7:7).

Noah lived at a time when it was not a popular thing to serve or worship God. When God told him to build an ark, only his family believed him. He labored hard and long but he completed the project anyway. Then the test came: enter the ark and stay there! Noah obeyed the Lord. He entered the ark with his wife, his three sons and their wives making a total of eight souls. They chose to stay together for God. How beautiful it will be if we can still nd families who choose to stay together for God today. If your parents are born again Christians, then you are lucky. You can join them like the sons of Noah did in entering the ark of salvation together. Flood time is not a doubting time. Flood time is not a dispute time either. Flood time is obedience time and we are better o in the boat with Dad and Mum than with our friends in the ood of life. Really, where would you rather be? Experience has proved that Noah was right and others were wrong. As it was then so it is today. YourBible-carrying godly parents are right a thousand times while the friends and fellows who are mocking the righteous are wrong as ever. Make the right choice today. Stay with Dad and Mum in the ark. And if your parents are not in the Ark, then you go right in and team up with heaven bound saints to get your name in the Book of Life.
Challenge: Get saved or get lost: the choice is yours. Prayer: Help me Lord to follow the good examples of my pious parents and others that I see around me today.

117

23rd April

JONAH, THE ALBATROSS

So they took up Jonah, and cast him forth into the sea: and the sea ceased from her raging.(Jonah1:15)

In the poem, Rhyme of the Ancient Mariner, Samuel Coleridge popularized the understanding that we have of the albatross today. His story of the Mariner who killed the bird called albatross gave the world a standard denition of the word albatross as a heavy burden, a disadvantage, and a hindrance. Whatever we call an albatross is a burden, a shackle or encumbrance or something that is hindering our progress and achievement. An albatross is an unnecessary burden you should not carry. The Bible, through the story of Jonah also agrees. Jonah became a burden to his fellow passengers in the ship. He wouldnt pray when others prayed but preferred to sleep instead. Then he confessed he was the cause of the storm that wouldnt let the others make progress. Yet, he was not ready to repent and make peace with the Almighty. In fact, in his deance of divine correction, he suggested to the other passengers to throw him overboard! If it was a joke, he carried it too far because when the mariners tried everything else but failed they decided to follow his suggestion and so threw him overboard. Wonder of wonders! Immediately he was thrown into the sea, the storm abated and there was calm. No doubt about it, Jonah was the cause of their troubles. Do you have a Jonah in your boat? Is Jonah your best friend? Is he your condant? Is Jonah your reading partner? Or is he your counselor? Listen friend, Jonah is an albatross. His presence in your life will keep you marching on a spot! You cant make much progress in life with Jonah in your boat. Throw him overboard immediately.
Challenge: A companion who does not increase you will decrease

you.

Prayer: Help me to be victorious over the people who are hindering my progress in life.

118

24th April

THE LORD, THY KEEPER

The LORD is thy keeper: the LORD is thy shade upon thy right hand. (Psalm 121:5).

Its a great feeling to have God on ones side. This day, the Lord has promised to be your keeper and you can depend on it; He will keep you as he said. But note the identication of the keeper the Lord. Some trust in other keepers. Many depend on human keepers. It is a great necessity on our part to seek divine protection because everybody sooner or later realizes the necessity of having a keeper. For you, the job has been made easy. Before you woke up today, before you slept last night, indeed, before you were even born, God had positioned Himself as your keeper who will keep you from every evil. From what will the Lord keep you? The Lord will keep you from sin. He has the power and desire to make you to enjoy a life of bliss in His presence and so will keep you. No matter how polluted the world may be and no matter how sinful everybody else could be, the Lord has promised to keep you and He will. From what will the Lord keep you? The Lord will keep you from evil. There are many evil personalities in this world but today none of them will have access to your body, home or life because the Lord will keep you from them all. You remember how the Lord kept Israel from the attempted curse by Balak in the wilderness? Or how He kept Daniel from the jaws of the lions? Even in a more dramatic way, the Lord will keep you. He is your shade and shelter from the heat of the sun of trouble. He will keep you and your joy will be full. Praise the Lord!
Challenge: He that keepeth Israel will not slumber. Prayer: Thank You Lord for being my keeper today.

119

25th April

RUN TO WIN
Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. (1 Corinthians 9:24)

Why start what you dont want to nish? Why begin what you dont want to end? Why participate in a race you dont want to win? Life is much more than competitions. No life will be full if it has no experience of victory at any level. Your life is like a race being run. What you want is what others want too. The success you desire is equally desired by others. The vision you cherish is also cherished by your colleagues and classmates. The good things you want are not peculiar to you alone. So, the question is, what do you do when others want what you want? Simple, isnt it? Life is a race. You run yours and follow your track; I run mine and follow my track. If you run well, you win and if I run better, I win. But you want to win, right? So you put in more eort. You discipline your appetite and body. You buckle down and get real busy practicing and practicing to win. And after all the early morning and late evening exercises, you put yourself out on the track. And lo and behold, the race begins and right by your side in his own lane goes your neighbor or classmate. He or she is not asking you not to run but he / she equally wants to nish and win something. You understand now why you cant stop or allow yourself to be distracted? Others want what you want and so you must work harder. The beautiful thing though is that God has enough prizes for all who run the race the way He wants it. See how easy that is compared to the Olympics. Gods race is easy to run and the prize easy to get. Get yours today by running well the race before you.
Challenge: Winners never quit and quitters never win Prayer: Lord, please help me to do all I will do today for your glory and honor

120

26th April

JONAH TOO CAN PRAY!

Then Jonah prayed unto the LORD his God out of the fish's belly. (Jonah 2:1)

Jonah is not only good at sleeping, Jonah too can pray. In fact Jonah prayed so well and so hard that heaven listened and God answered his prayers. You too, like Jonah can pray. True, Jonah did not want to pray initially, but he eventually prayed. Why? Jonah prayed because of his problems. He had attempted to run away from God before now but that failed and realized his helplessness and the futility of plotting against the will of God. His problems did not go away with time and he realized he must pray. He must have been touched by the challenge thrown to him by the people who saw him sleeping while others were praying in the boat. They challenged him to pray instead of sleeping and now that he was alone, he must have had enough time to remember the challenge. Thirdly, Jonah prayed because of the prospects. He knew that God answers prayers. Experience had taught him to know God is a prayer-answering God. After all, he was a prophet and prophets are men who receive information from God. He knows that God really answers prayers and so it is good to pray. Like Jonah, you too can pray. Let the problems that come your way lead you to pray. Let the lessons and things that you see in the lives of people around you today lead you to pray and let the assurance that God answers prayers encourage you to pray.
Challenge: Prayer is the voice of faith.

before.

Prayer: Help me O Lord to pray to You more than I have ever done

121

27th April

HAPPY BOYS AND GIRLS

And the streets of the city shall be full of boys and girls playing in the streets thereof. (Zechariah 8:5).

Today will be a happy day for you. The Lord will fulll the above verse in your life, in your street and in your community. It is a promise God made for the future at the time of the millennium. That is the time when Jesus will come again to establish His one thousand years of peaceful reign on earth. But for you, the fulllment of the promise begins in earnest. Notice the security that exists in the community. Boys and girls are not afraid of moving out of their houses. They are out there on the streets because it was safe. No kidnappers, no armed robbers, no hooligans and ritual killers to terrorize the kids. As you go out today, the Lord will make the streets safe for you. He will protect you with His mighty power and no harm will reach you in Jesus name. That is not all. You can see that the boys and girls mentioned above were playing. Of course, only healthy boys and girls play. Sick boys and girls do not engage in recreation in the streets. They will be somewhere in the house or hospital receiving treatment. That will not be your portion. You will be one of the playing people today who will enjoy divine health and healing. The Lord will visit you if you are sick and raise you up so you too can join the healthy ones playing. Remember too that playing children are joyful children. God will wipe every sorrow from your life in Jesus name. You will be fullled as you join your friends and neighbors praising the Lord who is good and gracious to His people.
Challenge: Jesus loves me this I know. Prayer: Thank You Father for all the good plans You have made for

me today. I am grateful.

122

28th April

A GENEROUS LAD
There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: But what are they among so many? (John 6:9)

The unnamed boy who followed Jesus could have kept his food to himself. He could have ignored the announcement concerning needs and ate his loaves by himself. But he gave them to the Lord thereby becoming a boy to be remembered for ever. True, his name was not given but he is not nameless in the courts of heaven. Surely, his blessings will be many before God. Our nameless hero will be rewarded for giving the little that he had. Others might be there who had more than ve barley loaves but who refused to give. He gave the little and God will bless him. But please remember that even though it was little, it was all that he had. The report identied him as having ve barley loaves and two shes. That was everything that he had and he gave them all. Now think of the blessings that came through giving. The food he alone could have nished became what thousands could not nish. Then imagine what report the happy boy would give at home that day! He would talk of how Jesus used his bread to bless many people! Like the nameless lad, you too will be a giver today. You will give to the work of the Lord. You will give your little, you will give your all and you will give freely. You will give your life and you will give your resources. You will also live to see the fruit of your benevolence. The harvest is always greater than the seed, therefore your giving will produce a bountiful harvest that will gladden your heart and that of those who love and appreciate you in Jesus name
Challenge: Givers never lack. Prayer: Lord, please grant me the right attitude to give for your work and your cause today.

123

29th April UNTIMELY DEATH And Samson said unto the lad that held him by the hand, Suffer me that I may feel the pillars whereupon the house standeth, that I may lean upon them. (Judges 16:26)

The Philistines were so condent of the helplessness of Samson that they assigned only a small boy to take care of him and guide him. They had captured him for some time now and had put out his eyes, bound him with chains and made him work in the house of Dagon. But they forgot about his hair. They forgot that hairs that we cut will grow back so when Samson repented and his hair began to grow again nobody noticed it much. In the meantime, an unlucky boy was made to escort him wherever he went. On this day of death, the boy led him to the feast of Dagon where the leaders of the Philistines had gathered. They brought Samson there to continue their humiliation of his person and ministry. But they got more than what they bargained for as none of them survived the tragedy of untimely death in the hands of Samson. We must learn many lessons from this incident. One, dont join people to mock children of God. It never pays. If you see people mocking the children of God, avoid them. Two, beware of cheap amusements. Sometimes you may see people gather in large numbers to watch mad men or women on the road, move away from them. Lastly, dont make fun of blind, lame or other physically challenged people. If this little boy had known what you know now, maybe he might not have joined those making fun of Samson that day. You will not die prematurely in Jesus name.
Challenge: Many receive advice, only the wise prot by it. Prayer: Help me to be careful with my eyes, my mouth and my legs

today O Lord.

124

30th April

CONFESSION OF MOSES
And Moses said, We will go with our young and with our old, with our sons and with our daughters, with our flocks and with our herds will we go; for we must hold a feast unto the LORD. (Exodus 10:9).

Although Pharaoh was stubborn, he met his match in Moses. He had tried to make some concessions to the demand of Moses to go and serve the Lord and wanted to know who Moses wanted to go with him. Tell us Moses, who will you take with you to serve the Lord? Moses gave a beautiful answer which should be your confession ever: all of us will serve the Lord with everything we have. Young and old must serve the Lord. No one is too old to honor God neither is anyone too young to worship him. Our sons must worship God along with our daughters. Even our possession is for God. Our money and material resources should be for God. The confession of Moses should be your confession today. Say it loud and clear, like Moses, before the Pharaohs of this world: Today I will serve the Lord. I will worship the Lord with my brothers and sisters. My parents will serve the Lord. All of us will worship God together. Everything that God gave us will be used to honor God. No one will stop me or make me afraid to serve the Lord. Pharaoh will not make me fear. No man will play God in my life. Only the Lord will be my Lord and Master. Your plan, Lord, is what I will carry out. I will obey. Your words and do all that You want me to do in Jesus name.
Challenge: We can with condence commit ourselves to the invisible hands of Him who bears up the world.

today.

Prayer: Give me grace to trust You wholly and in everything I do

125

1st May

DAUGHTER OF BELIAL
Count not thine handmaid for a daughter of Belial: for out of the abundance of my complaint and grief have I spoken hitherto. 1 (Samuel 1:16).

Eli was an old man who had seen many days. As he ministered in the temple in Shiloh year in year out, he is used to watch people as they come to worship. He could recognize the seeker and the deceiver. He knew enough about the children of Belial whenever he saw them. From the accusation levied against Hannah we can understand the certain qualities of daughters of Belial. Eli was not surprised to see a daughter of Belial in the temple. He knew they attend the house of God. Till today daughters of Belial still go to fellowship with other children of God. Furthermore, daughters of Belial are known by their emotional display in church. They can outcry the bereaved, out-sing the most gifted soloist and box the devil to death with their naked sts all in an attempt to let people know they are in church. Finally, Eli knew they like to drink even when coming to church. So they can mutter a lot of meaningless phrases, speak in tongues on top of their voices, prophesy and yet all under the inuence of alcohol! Hannah was not a daughter of Belial. She had a long standing burden of many years that wore her down. As she prayed, Eli eventually teamed up with her and the battle was won. As you go out today, you will also pray and heaven will answer you. You will not live, pray, talk or walk like the daughters of Belial in Jesus name.
Challenge: Satan can make people dance upon the brink of hell as though they were on the verge of heaven. Charles Spurgeon. Prayer: Help me Lord to live true to you in all I do today. I pray that Ill not be an agent of Satan in any way.

126

2nd May

DAUGHTERS OF PHILLIP
And the same man had four daughters, virgins, which did prophesy. (Acts 21:9).

The daughters of Phillip are in a class of their own. We have heard of the idolatry of the daughters of Canaan, the pride of the daughters of Zion, the worldliness of the daughters of Jezebel, the whoredom of the daughters of Israel and the tears of the daughters of Jerusalem. But these daughters of Phillip are like the kings daughter, they were all virtuous. What a beautiful thing to be blessed with daughters who love the Lord. Phillip, the evangelist had four daughters. All were virgins. In the corrupt city of Caesarea they kept themselves pure. They refused to allow the video and internet culture to pollute their white garment. They refused to allow their immoral classmates and friends to lure them into ungodliness. They sent no dirty text messages to anyone nor give their phone numbers to any. In short, they had no boyfriend or immoral girlfriend. Thats not all. They developed themselves and their ministry in the church. They became prophetesses who could receive messages from the Lord and give same to the saints and sinners. No wonder Paul and his team could stay in their fathers house. The house must have been a good place to be. Surely, the presence of God must have radiated all over the house. Today, you can still recognize the daughters of Phillip by their unblemished and outstanding qualities. They are lily in the mire, pure and untouched by the lthiness around them. The daughters of Phillip may not be around today but you are? And you are a daughter of someone too. I pray God to make you to be to your community, what the daughters of Phillip were to Caesarea.
Challenge: ...that our daughters may be as corner stones, polished after the similitude of a palace. Psalm 144:12.

name.

Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to live a pure life for You in Jesus

127

3rd May

REPORTERS IN THE HOUSE OF CHLOE

For it hath been declared unto me of you, my brethren, by them which are of the house of Chloe, that there are contentions among you. (1 Corinthians 1:11).

Members of the house of Chloe were members of the church of Corinth. Obviously they love the Lord and were not happy at the negative reports circulating among the members about misunderstandings among the brethren. Before things could get out of hand they wrote Apostle Paul about the problems and told him to do something about it. Pauls response is clear enough. Stop the inghting and work together as a team. Remember: together everyone accomplishes more Members of the House of Chloe did not write anonymous letters to Paul. Had they done so he would never have been able to mention their names? They informed him of things that needed his immediate attention because he was a leader that the people would obey. They informed him of the problems as accurately as they could. Information supplied like this often helps organizations to correct wrongdoings. The survival of a body or organization like the church often depends on the ability of the members to give adequate report to the right people who are in position to eect necessary changes. As you go out today, you owe it to your school, church and even your family to make appropriate report to the right quarters concerning any negative information or development that you come across. Such information should be passed across to the right person at the right time. Your prompt information could prevent a lot of confusion and/or destruction.
Challenge: An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Prayer: Help me Father to know what to say, how to say it and to whom I should say it.

128

4th May

THE LORD IS GOOD

O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him. (Psalm 34:8).

Here is the news: The Lord is good. The Lord is good because it is His nature. Everything about Him is holy and lovely. God made a good world. You read Genesis 1 and see how many times the Bible says the things God made were good. The word good was used seven times. Thats one good per day! At the end of the creative program of God in Genesis 1:31 the Bible says And God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day. To be able to benet from the goodness of the Lord you are invited to experience Him. Logical, isnt it? A delicious meal is of no use until you eat it. Neither is a drink tasty until you sip it. As they say, the taste of the pudding is in the eating. That is another way of saying that when you taste the Lord you will be able to enjoy the benet of His goodness. What a wonderful privilege it is to be able to enjoy the goodness of the Lord in every area of our life today. Now that you know that the Lord is good and that He wants you to try Him, will you? If you do, He has promised to bless you. When you trust Him, He will trust you with His blessings and favors. You know He is good. He made a good world. He will turn everything around for your good if you surrender your life to Him and trust Him. Praise the Lord!
Challenge: The LORD is good; his mercy is everlasting; and his truth endureth to all generations. Prayer: Help me to enjoy Your goodness today O Lord.

129

5th May

THE KINGS CHANGING PASSION

And the damsel was very fair, and cherished the king, and ministered to him: but the king knew her not. (1 Kings 1:4).

David was quite reckless with girls. A major aw in his life and activities was his carelessness with members of the opposite sex. He was a polygamist. Apart from the problem of marrying many wives (seven including Michal see 2 Samuel 3:2-5) he later went after Bathsheba, Uriahs wife and killed the husband in the process. Now the king is old and the king has suddenly discovered a change in passion and desires. He who once irted with women now nds he cannot do so anymore. Like David, you too will nd out that a lot of things that matter to you now will fade into insignicance with time and age. We will all change and our passions and desires, if selsh and ungodly, will turn sour in our mouth when eventually death draws near. Many other factors, apart from age, force us to change. One of these is sickness and others are economic and social factors. King David was helpless to pursue a passion in which he had indulged himself when old age came. You too will grow old. Are you living in view of eternity? Remember King Saul? He changed his I-dont-need-God posture when defeat and shame came knocking his door. Even Jezebel found that her usual charm with which she captured Ahab did not work with Jehu. Be careful what passions consume you now as only things of eternal value will last
Challenge: Change before changes force you to change. Prayer: Help me O Lord to think of the end in all my actions.

130

6th May

PRAY FOR YOUR HEALTH

Then shall thy light break forth as the morning, and thine health shall spring forth speedily: and thy righteousness shall go before thee; the glory of the LORD shall be thy rereward. (Isaiah 58:8)

Heavenly Father I thank You for Your great and precious promises for me in Your word. I am grateful Lord that You will make my light to shine. Physically and spiritually my light will shine. People will see Your glory in my life and rejoice. I know that Your power is limitless and Your resources inexhaustible. You will empower me to shine and do more, know more and be more as I go out today. I appreciate Your special provision for my health Lord. You will make me to be in good health because Jesus is my Healer. By His stripes I am healed. And whatever sicknesses may be in my body today, I receive divine healing right now in Jesus name. I reject every sickness in my body and in the bodies of my parents and siblings. They will all be in health and prosper in Jesus name. Your word assures me that Your righteousness is available for me, so I receive it by faith. I will go out and come in pleasing You in all things. Sin shall not have dominion over my life today. You will be my Teacher who will teach me what to do and what not to do in every area of my life. I will not walk in darkness. I will not walk in frustration of confusion. I will receive divine guidance in the things that matter. You also will provide for all needs in my life and home today. More importantly, I will please the Lord in every area of my life in Jesus name.
Challenge: God is always near. Pray to Him and praise Him, and

He will answer you.

Prayer: Thank You Father for blessing me in the way You have. I am grateful, Lord.

131

7th May

PRAISE THE LORD

And to stand every morning to thank and praise the LORD, and likewise at even.(1 Chronicles 23:30).

This morning as you get up from bed, you have a special assignment. Your most important duty this morning is to praise the Lord. You too must be like David who made praising God a priority. David knew the importance of praise. He was of the tribe of Judah and Judah means praise. Praising God was a priority for him, and so he recruited a band. Then he assigned them to the duty of praising the Lord every day, morning and evening. Praising God is good because God inhabits the praises of His people. God wants us to praise Him and so it is right for us to do so. It is good to praise the Lord because it is natural for us to say good things about anything or anyone we like. Not only that, praising God is easy, it is not dicult. You do not need to think of what to say and how to say it. Just open your mouth and say Thank You, Lord! Now what do we praise God for? Many things of course! We praise Him for His love He loves us so much He sent His Son to die for us because His love is everlasting. We praise Him for keeping us alive and healthy. We praise Him for blessing us with parents who care for us. We praise Him for our siblings and other family members. We praise Him for our school, our teachers and principal and all our classmates. We praise Him for nancial provisions that we receive even as students. We praise Him for making us part of His church and for our leaders and pastors. We praise Him that we can know Him as Lord and Savior. Indeed, let everything that hath breath praise the Lord. Praise ye the Lord!
Challenge: He who takes time to praise the Lord will not have time to blame the Lord. Prayer: Lord, I praise You for your love and goodness to me. I am so grateful.

132

8th May

THE WISE FOOL

Even a fool, when he holdeth his peace, is counted wise: and he that shutteth his lips is esteemed a man of understanding. (Proverbs 17:28).

Fools are made, not born. It is true that no one is born a fool but many make fools of themselves every day. Foolishness is all about how we do and say things. It is all about how we work and live and conduct ourselves before others. Foolishness includes portraying oneself as silly and incompetent in handling day to day matters. Foolishness is a product of continuous negative habit. Now that we understand those basic issues, the next thing we should ask ourselves then is who is a fool? The verse above tells us that a fool is someone who talks too much. No matter the reputation one may have of being not too gifted intellectually, as long as one keeps his/her mouth shut nobody will have any proof of the persons shortcomings. A silent fool is no fool. Who is a fool? A fool is a boy or girl who does not know how, where and when to keep quiet. He has an opinion he wants to share about every topic under the sun. He or she does not know how and when not to talk. Such a boy or girl is a fool. But you are not going to make a fool of yourself today. Instead, you will resist the urge to talk on everything you meet people talking about. You will remember that silence is golden and what you have not said cannot be quoted. Tell yourself as you leave your room today: a silent fool is wise!
Challenge: Blessed are they who have nothing to say, and who

cannot be persuaded to say it.

Prayer: Help me to live for You by not allowing the devil to use my mouth to say what I should not say.

133

9th May

DONT WORRY AT ALL!

Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? (Matthew 6:25).

Jesus had a great plan for His church. The church was to carry on the work of evangelism to every nook and cranny of the world. He knew that man must depend on divine grace and ability to complete this assignment. To do this, man needed to understand the secret of walking by faith. To walk by faith is to allow God to do what He wants to do with us and through us. We will allow him to do this without complaining or worrying. Worrying makes us to trust our own ability more than Gods. Yet, worrying never solves any problem! In fact worrying has been described as the interest that we pay for a debt that we do not owe. And that doesnt make sense, does it? Whatever challenge or mountain we face, it is good that we remember that the Lord our God has promised sucient grace to enable us overcome. No need to worry at all. Another reason we should not worry has been clearly explained by a writer who said Worry is a kind of insult to the Lord. It's like throwing His promises and assurances back into His face and saying they're no good and you don't trust Him. Do you understand? Your life is more than meat. So He who gave you life to wake up this day will give you meat to sustain the life He gave you. He clothed the lily, he will clothe you. That is what faith is all about.
Challenge: The devil would have us continually crossing streams

that do not exist.

Prayer: I depend on You Lord to sustain me today so I will not waste

my time on things that are not important.

134

10th May

THE PRAISE BAND

Moreover Hezekiah the king and the princes commanded the Levites to sing praise unto the LORD with the words of David, and of Asaph the seer. And they sang praises with gladness, and they bowed their heads and worshipped. (2 Chronicles 29:30).

It is good to praise the Lord. Our reference this morning shows how King Hezekiah raised up a band of Levites to praise God. From that we learn that it is good for us to join the band of people who delights to praise the Lord. We equally see the focus of their praise. They were not using the wordings of popular poems or lyrics. They used the words of David and of Asaph the seer. Our words in praising God could be spontaneous like the song of Miriam and Moses or else we keep to scriptural songs to worship the Lord our God. Then we see the mood with which they praised the Lord. They sang with happiness. That is exactly what we should do too. When we praise God, we are saying thank you to Him. We do not say thank you to people while frowning our faces. Usually when we say thank you, we always say it with a smile. That is exactly what we should do to God. They ended the worship session by bowing their heads. This is not a play. Worship is solemn. It is submission to Gods sovereignty. To worship God is to acknowledge Him as King over our lives. Think about this. Hezekiah was a king yet he recognized God as ultimate sovereign and King of kings. You too must recognize God as the King of kings and Lord of lords. He is the ancient of days, the beginning and the end. He is worthy of your worship today. You too must join the praise band.
Challenge: Heaven-bound saints are never ashamed to worship Prayer: Thou art worthy O Lord to receive glory, honor and power.

their King.

135

11th May

SINGING SAINTS
And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. (Acts 16:25)

There was no choir in the prison cells in Philippi where Paul and Silas were locked. No musical instrument was available either. The cell was cold and the two disciples must have used whatever was available to clean the welts on their bodies. The pain was much. What do you do when pain wracks your body as a result of merciless beatings? What do you do when your memory starts to feed on the unjust treatment you received from the hands of those you are trying to help? Paul and Silas decided to pray. They prayed for their friends and prayed for those who maltreated them. They prayed for their enemies and blessed those who persecuted them. They prayed for the possessed lady recently delivered and prayed for her masters. They prayed for the magistrates and prayed for their jailor. Then one thing led to the other. Prayer lightened their hearts. Hope rose gallantly in their spirit. Joy coursed through their damp cells. And songs, gracious grateful melodies owed from the recesses of grateful hearts. They sang and sang and sang until the melody of praise reverberated all over the prison. What a night of bliss! What a night of power! For He, to whom the praises were oered, came down in a blaze of power and glory. The earth shook and shuddered and the King immersed His saints in His glory. In a twinkling of an eye, He gave the singing saints reasons to really sing! What a great God we serve! Are you sick? Are you in sorrow? Or are you bound in any way? No matter your condition, no matter your state. Whatever comes your way today, dont forget to sing to the Lord. Yes, sing and sing your way through!
Challenge: I will sing of the mercies of the Lord forever. David. Prayer: Thank You, thank You Lord; thank You Lord, for everything You have done

136

12th May

YOUR BEST FOR HIM

All the best of the oil, and all the best of the wine, and of the wheat, the first fruits of them which they shall offer unto the LORD, them have I given thee. (Numbers 18:12).

Somewhere in your house are some of your dresses you have outgrown, shoes you are not using again and even books you have used in your previous classes. There must also be some other toys and things that may still be good but you really do not want again. Such goods we pack away and sometimes give out to friends and relatives who ask for them or who really need them. We are however sometimes embarrassed to discover that some really good things are mixed up with such disposable goods. When such happens, and we know on time, we take time to separate and keep them aside so we do not mix them up with the goods we are happy to dispose. We dont always like to part with very valuable things. In our verse for meditation this morning, the Lord is drawing our attention to the quality of the things we should bring to Him. He wants the best of the oil, the best of the wine, the best of the wheat and the best of the rst fruits. In other words God wants us to give him the best that we have. We are often guilty of bringing our disposable goods for His work. Things we are willing to dispose because we dont need them again arent worth much really. God wants things that are worthy, good, useful and important not things that are in the categories of your old shoes and dresses you have outgrown and want to dash someone. God doesnt want your old shoe, He wants your best. He doesnt want your old anything! He wants your very best! As you go out today, remember to give God the best of everything you have. Give Him your most valuable resources. That is what He wants and that is what will bring you reward in time and eternity. Give God your best today
Challenge: Give and it shall be given to you. Prayer: I present my life and everything I have to You Lord. Use me

for your glory.

137

13th May

GARMENTS FOR AARON

And thou shalt make holy garments for Aaron thy brother for glory and for beauty. (Exodus 28:2).

Whatever your age, whatever your job, you will not walk naked all the days of your life in Jesus name. Many people do not understand the plan or program of God for their lives. If they do, they will know that God is interested in every detail and if they will listen to the voice from above, they will nd that He is a good Father, a dependable planner and a gracious Savior. In our text above we can see His plans for Aaron. He wanted Aaron clothed in special garments. First of all He wanted the garment to be holy. Because He is holy, He wanted the attribute of holiness to be reected in the manner of dressing of Aaron. Next, He wanted the dress for glory. The dress should reect His divine nature which is glorious and honorable. Finally, he wanted the dress to be beautiful. Those are the three features God wanted for Aarons attire. What God wants for Aaron is surely what He wants for you too. As you go out today, let your attire, whatever dress you will wear be for holiness. Holy dresses will not expose your nakedness or be too tight on your body so that everyone will see your body contours. When your dresses reect Gods glory they will make you a boy or girl of honor. Your dress will not be a source of temptation to the opposite sex. And nally your dress will be beautiful but not seductive. You will look elegant and regal like Aaron while ministering in the tabernacle. Today, God will clothe you with His glory in Jesus name.
Challenge: What you wear is often a reection of who you are. Prayer: Dear God, please help me to please You in all I do and in

all I wear.

138

14th May

STUPID PROMISE
And the king was sorry: nevertheless for the oath's sake, and them which sat with him at meat, he commanded it to be given her. (Matthew 14:9).

Some people are like wicked King Herod. They dont know how to stop making stupid promises. Salomes daughter danced so much that the king was carried away by her antics. And in the excitement of the moment he promised to give her whatever she asked for. What he did not bargain for was that the girl will not really ask for something she actually needed. Instead, the lady went to her mother to ask what to demand from the king and the mother instructed her to ask for the head of John the Baptist. The king was not man enough to reject this murderous demand. He went ahead to behead John the Baptist to fulll a stupid promise. Learn from King Herod and stop making stupid promises. How do you know that a promise is stupid? When any promise you make to any boy, girl or anyone for that matter is contrary to the word of God, it is a stupid promise. When you make a promise that involves taking the life of someone with or without their consent it is a stupid promise. When you make a promise of marriage to a boy or girl while you are still a child yourself it is a stupid promise. When you make promises to help a classmate to cheat in exams, God too will be displeased with you. When you make a promise just for promise sake, especially when such undertaking is before your peers who are spiritually ignorant about the consequences, it is a stupid promise. An unintelligent promise is also one that you make when you do not have adequate resources to meet its demand. There is only one thing to do with a dim-witted promise cancel it. That was what Herod should have done. Once we realize the spiritual and physical implications of a stupid promise, the right thing to do is to honestly admit our errors and apologize for the mistake. To continue to execute a stupid promise like Herod did is to be guilty of its consequence. The Lord will deliver us from self-destruction in Jesus name.
Challenge: He who knows not, and knows not that he knows not, is a fool. Prayer: Deliver me O Lord from making stupid promises and where I have made any, please help me to correct my ways. 139

15th May

A RELATIVE OF JESUS
For whosoever shall do the will of God, the same is my brother, and my sister, and mother. (Mark 3:35)

What a privilege it is to have Jesus call us His relative. It is an honor that is bestowed on us because we do the will of God. Anytime we do the will of God we align ourselves with the eternal program of heaven and so become a child in whom God truly delights. To do the will of God, we must rst know it. The will of God is written in the Bible, so anytime we read it, we place ourselves in a position where we will be properly informed of the will of God and eventually are able to do it. Knowing the will of God is not enough however. We must accept it. This is an area where many people have diculties. Let us take the problem of examination malpractice as an example. We know the Bible opposes stealing, lying etc. The phrase examination malpractice is not mentioned in the Bible but from our understanding of what the Bible says about stealing and lying, we realize that examination malpractice is not the will of God for the believer. So we accept it. The next step then is to do the will of God. We put to practice what we know that God wants us to do in His word which is His will. Jesus says we become His relative when we do the will of God. Becoming a relative of Jesus is better than becoming a relative of an earthly king. Becoming a relative of Jesus is better than becoming a relative of a big time politician. The relationship we stand to enjoy with Jesus will last into eternity while whatever relationship we have here on earth ends with death. Besides, human beings cannot truly be trusted whereas Jesus can fully be depended upon. Thank God, you too can be a relative of Jesus today
Challenge: When your will is God's will, you will have your will. Charles Spurgeon. Prayer: Help me Lord to do your will in all that I will do today.

140

16th May

FEAR OF MAN
The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe. (Proverbs 29:25)

God does not want you to be afraid of anyone as you go out today. One of the commonest tools that the devil uses to attack children of God is fear. He tries to attack our work and life by making us afraid. But the word of God assures us this morning that we should not fear man. The Bible is awash with many promises from the Lord that we should not fear. The rst man to receive the promise of Fear not is Abraham. Genesis 15:1 states: After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward. The last man to receive the promise is John in Revelation 1: 17: And when I saw him, I fell at his feet as dead. And he laid his right hand upon me, saying unto me, Fear not; I am the rst and the last. From Genesis to Revelation God is assuring us not to fear. You too will not fear man today. The Lord will uphold you and it shall be well with you. When we fear, we put our faith in whatever is making us to be afraid. But when we put our trust in the Lord, the Bible tells us we shall be safe. You surely have what it takes to receive from the Lord today. You shall not fear because greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world. You shall not fear because God has told you not to fear. You will believe the Lord. You will also not fear because the devil has been defeated once and for all on the Cross of Calvary. You are a winner in Jesus name.
Challenge: Fear is False Experience Appearing Real. I shall not fear

man.

Prayer: Help me to move so close to You today Lord that no man shall stand between us in Jesus name.

141

17th May

THE MONEY MANAGER

And Joseph gathered up all the money that was found in the land of Egypt, and in the land of Canaan, for the corn which they bought: and Joseph brought the money into Pharaoh's house. (Genesis 47:14) God wants you to succeed spiritually, and that is why you must repent of your sins and walk in righteousness everyday of your life. After you have received Christ as Lord, it is important for you to know that God will commit certain resources He wants you to manage into your hand; just like He did to Joseph. Joseph started as a slave in the house of Potiphar but by the grace of God rose to become the General Manager. From Potiphars house he was posted to Prison Department where he rose again to become a Manager. From Prison, he was posted to the Palace to become a General Manager. The verse for our meditation this morning gives us an insight into what made Joseph so successful. See? He had the corn, the people had the money. He sold the corn and collected their money. He kept the money in Pharaohs vault (Bank). Just three steps: Procure the Resources, Promote its sales to Buyers, and Put away your gains. It is another way of saying Store, Sell then Save. As a young boy or girl your knowledge of money must go beyond spending. Joseph did not spend money like you are doing. He saved money. You too must begin to save money now that you have read his story. No matter how little your daily allowance, you can begin to save today if you want to. After all, there are many other kids in your school who do not get as much as you do and they still take care of themselves. You too can be a prudent money manager by thinking of saving money instead of spending it only. Be a money manager today by cutting down on your expenses. Whatever allowance you have for today see how to save 20% of it. You will discover that you will not starve or fall sick because of that. That amount saved is your gain. Start saving it. You may want to open a bank account or keep the money with your parents until it is sucient to buy shares, or land or even something better. That way, you too will soon become a Money Manager. Remember the Joseph formula: Store, Sell then Save Challenge: Make all you can, save all you can, give all you can. John Wesley Prayer: Help me to be a true money manager today in all I do in O Lord. 142

18th May

TAKE THEM HOME

And when Joseph saw Benjamin with them, he said to the ruler of his house, Bring these men home, and slay, and make ready; for these men shall dine with me at noon. (Genesis 43:16)

Joseph was a man with a large heart. He made plans to take good care of his brothers ever before they knew he was Joseph. Although they had done a lot of wrong things against him he was willing to forgive them. And he forgave them unconditionally. When you come to think of it, the brothers deserved no mercy. They removed Josephs dress, sold him into slavery, told their father he had died and wished his dream would never come to pass. But here is Joseph making plans to entertain them in his house! There are many lessons we must learn from the action and attitude of Joseph today. One, we must be willing to forgive people who have wronged us wherever they are and whatever they might have done. Two, we must be willing to forgive them even before they apologize to us. The brothers of Joseph did not know they were before Joseph and so could not have apologized before Joseph started to take care of them. Three, we must be willing to re-establish normal relationship with such people. Joseph was willing to accept these people back as his brothers so he took them home. You too will need to take your old, but estranged friends, back home. You may need to seek counseling from your spiritual leaders to be able to handle this area very well but you must take every necessary step to truly forgive and forget oences.
Challenge: To err is human: to forgive, divine. Prayer: Help me to love and forgive all those who have oended me

O Lord.

143

19th May

HAMANS HEART
So Haman came in. And the king said unto him, What shall be done unto the man whom the king delighteth to honor? Now Haman thought in his heart, To whom would the king delight to do honor more than to myself? (Esther 6:6).

Haman was a man full of himself. He looked at the entire kingdom of King Ahasuerus and asked if there was another person who deserved honor and recognition. He could not think of anyone. Since there was no one else but he, Haman the Agagite, he wanted to take advantage of the opportunity he had to the full. The best way to do it is it to make whoever was there among the nobility to compete with him to be humiliated publicly. So let that man be made to go around the town proclaiming his (Hamans) greatness. How badly Haman missed it! How dearly he paid for his self-conceit! How embarrassed he was at the end of the day to discover he was not the one about to be honored. It was Mordecai, the very man he despised with passion and wanted to kill! It is a great privilege for us to know the love and care of God. But the Bible admonishes us not to think of ourselves more highly than we ought to. Haman wouldnt have been so humiliated on the streets of Sushan if he had recognized the grace of God in the lives of other people. Besides it would have been quite illogical for the king to be asking for his counsel, if he (Haman) was the one to be honored. But pride often blunts our ability to reason well. Arrogance always gives us a false sense of our importance and security. As you go out today, watch your heart. Is it full of thoughts about your greatness and beauty? Dont allow pride to take you o the line of blessing. Humble yourself and let the Lord exalt you.
Challenge: A man full of himself is full of nothing else. Prayer: Help me to see my emptiness Lord so You can truly ll me with Your greatness.

144

20th May

EAT AT HOME
EAT AT HOME And if any man hunger, let him eat at home; that ye come not together unto condemnation. And the rest will I set in order when I come. (1 Corinthians 11:34).

Paul advised Corinthian Christians to learn to eat at home. His advice was given to prevent people turning church services into places where they had to struggle for food. The advice is as good today as it was to the Corinthians. Boys and girls will enjoy the family relationship a lot better when they begin to eat at home. It is even absurd today to see boys and girls eating during worship services. Eating at home gives us a lot of advantages. It helps our families to spend useful time together. Most of us are busy. Our parents are generally busy moving from their place of work to church almost every day in an attempt to provide adequate spiritual and nancial cover for us. The few times we have to sit at table together are therefore good and welcome as it allows us opportunity for bonding. Eating at home also helps the little ones us to learn to cook ourselves. When food is prepared at home we get to see how it is prepared and so learn in the process. Another ground for eating at home is hygiene. Homemade foods are prepared under good hygienic conditions, thereby helping us to avoid contracting diseases like cholera and typhoid fever. They are also better prepared because we always use sucient ingredients. Foods taken at home give us more value for our money. Apart from the meal being prepared to our taste, the quantity served is always bigger than what we would have got outside. Eating at home also saves us from the negative habit of associating with the wrong type of people. Friend, you must be like the Corinthian Christians today. Beginning from this day, start to eat at home.
Challenge: You are what you eat. Prayer: Give me the power and the grace to eat appropriately today

in Jesus name.

145

21st May

TRANSFORMING POWER OF PRAYER

And as he prayed, the fashion of his countenance was altered, and his raiment was white and glistering. (Luke 9:29).

Here is a good reason why you should pray prayer changes people. Jesus went to the mountain to pray and while praying His look was transformed and His attire was altered. Surely prayer has the power to transform and change us. The good thing about the change is that it is a change for the better. Just like praying changed the countenance and attires of Jesus, prayer changes believers who pray in many ways. Firstly, prayer changes our use of time. Very few habits instill personal discipline in the use of time like prayer. Committed prayer warriors know they have an appointment with the King of kings and they never like to keep the King waiting. Secondly, prayer changes our tongues. Once you begin to pray you soon learn to know that the tongue that we use to bless the Father cannot be used to curse man who is made in the image of God. Thirdly, prayer changes our temper. When we pray, impatience gives way to patience and the tendency to have ones way right now gives way to waiting on the Lord. Fourthly, prayer changes our tomorrows. This is the best reason of all. Whatever negative or evil thing Satan has programmed for our future easily gets changed by prayer. And lastly, prayer changes our thinking. Prayer makes us agree with God that indeed all things are possible to him that believes. Prayer makes us think heavenly thoughts and heavenly thoughts ll our hearts with hope. You too must benet from the transforming power of prayer. When you do, your life will never be the same again. Praise the Lord.
Challenge: God may not always answer prayers, but he always answers people. Prayer: Help me to spend this day in prayer to You my Lord and

my God.

146

22nd May

EVERLASTING LIFE
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).

Everlasting life is the good life God has reserved in the future for true believers. All through the Bible the term everlasting life rings a positive tune of hope, love and joy for the faithful. The phrase occurred only eleven times in the Bible. It was rst used in Daniel 12:2 (the only time it occurs in the Old Testament) and was last used in Romans 6:22. It occurred once in Matthew, once in Acts and seven times in the Gospel of John! We know it is a phrase Apostle John loved to use to describe the life the believer has waiting for him or her after this life. God is eternal. He planted the seed of eternity in us when He made us. But sin separated us from continuous fellowship with Him. As a result anyone that dies in sin will continue to live after death but away from the presence of the Lord in hell. That condition too is everlasting but it contains no joy or hope. It is everlasting damnation. On the other hand, if we believe in the Lord Jesus Christ and accept His sacricial death for us on the cross of Calvary, we will receive a gift of everlasting life. This is another life after this present life. It is a life that has no end. It is a life we will live with the Lord in heaven. Everlasting life is not for everybody. It is preserved only for those who believe in the Lord Jesus Christ. Have you received this free gift of everlasting life? You can receive it right now where you are if you will accept Jesus as your Lord and Savior, believe Him as the Son of God and one who died for your sins and then confess those sins to Him. As you own up to your sins, promise to forsake them and He will give you everlasting life.
Challenge: That only is worth my having which I can have forever. That only is worth my grasping which death cannot tear out of my hand. Charles Spurgeon. Prayer: I accept Jesus as my Lord and Savior today. Help me Father to live for You without committing sins again for the rest of my life. 147

23rd May

MISPLACED PRIORITIES
In that thou lovest thine enemies, and hatest thy friends. For thou hast declared this day, that thou regardest neither princes nor servants: for this day I perceive, that if Absalom had lived, and all we had died this day, then it had pleased thee well. (2 Samuel 19:6).

How do you treat your friends? Do you take time to pray for them? Do you demonstrate love and respect to them as you should? What about your parents? Do you respect and honor them? Do you obey their instructions? Do you appreciate your spiritual leaders and teachers in school too? Do you give honor to whom it is due? Joab rebuked David sharply in the verse above because He (David) got his priorities misplaced. Joab had led the troops out to ght against the soldiers of Absalom who had rebelled against David. Joab won the battle but Absalom died. The king then decided to mourn the death of Absalom instead of celebrating the victory of his army. All the soldiers of David felt embarrassed that David did not appreciate them for the risk they had taken ghting for him. That was when Joab came to confront the king in the above verse. The mistakes David made are often repeated by many boys and girls who have taken their parents love for granted. When you love your sin partners more than God, you are misplacing your priorities. Literally, many of us love our enemies (Satan and his agents) and we hate our friends (our parents, pastors and teachers). You must heed the advice of Joab to David today. Put your priorities right. Appreciate the people that really matter. Make pleasing God your number one priority. Then obey your parents and your teachers in school. Pleasing your classmates and schoolmates must not be at the expense of the word of God. Make God happy and He will make you happy in turn.
Challenge: Why is it always easier to hate a friend than to love an

enemy?

Prayer: Lord, please help me to appreciate You and all those You have sent to bless and make me fullled today. 148

24th May

THE SUPERSTAR
And it came to pass as they came, when David was returned from the slaughter of the Philistine, that the women came out of all cities of Israel, singing and dancing, to meet king Saul, with tabrets, with joy, and with instruments of musick. And the women answered one another as they played, and said, Saul hath slain his thousands, and David his ten thousands. (1 Samuel 18:6-7).

The dictionary denes a superstar as an exceptionally famous or successful actor, musician, sportsman or sportswoman. In our world today, we are blessed with many superstars. They abound all around us and the media feeds us regularly with their stories, their antics and norms. They are even idolized! David too in his days was a superstar. He was an accomplished musician but it really was in the battleeld that he broke into the limelight. In a close combat encounter, he defeated the champion of the Philistines called Goliath and the triumph launched him into stardom. Society has always celebrated superstars and so in the case of David, women sang of his praises, men talked of his skills and youths too must have spoken of his dramatic accomplishment. In the meantime, David minded his career still, remained loyal to his master and continued to honor and carry out his commitments. Not so the superstars of today. For one, todays superstars are moral wrecks. Indelity and gross immorality characterize their family lives. The picture is almost always given that part of becoming a superstar is the ability to live immoral lives. Today many superstars are drug addicts, divorcees and alcoholics. Theirs is a case of unbridled passion and since they are supposed to be superstars who know how to act, run or dance best, they assume that success in one thing goes into other areas of life as well. Disaster, untimely death, drug abuse, pornography, burn out, and mental breakdown torment their lives. The word of God is a leveler, so a superstar still needs the Savior. He must acknowledge and repent of his sins before he or she will be able to make heaven. Be careful how you copy a superstar. A decorated and exalted sinner is still a sinner any day. Challenge: God must have loved the plain people: He made so many of them. Lincoln Prayer: Please help me Lord to follow the right example of godliness in the lives of the people I see around me today.
149

25th May

HOUR OF TEMPTATION
Because thou hast kept the word of my patience, I also will keep thee from the hour of temptation, which shall come upon all the world, to try them that dwell upon the earth. (Revelation 3:10).

You are beginning this day with a powerful promise from the Lord the Promise Keeper. He says if you keep His words of patience, He will keep you from the hour of temptation. The Lord is not unaware of your life and service. He said that you have kept the word of His patience. You have endured the persecution and attacks of the enemies of the Gospel. You have remained steadfast and faithful in the face of opposition and criticism. Jesus appreciates that and wants you to continue standing so He can carry out His own duty on your behalf. His duty is to keep you from the hour of temptation. This is what Albert Barnes said about the hour of temptation from which the Lord will keep you. The season; the time; the period of temptation. You shall be so kept that that which will prove to be a time of temptation to so many shall not endanger your salvation. Though others fall, you shall not; though you may be aicted with others, yet you shall have grace to sustain you. Amen. Please note the nature of the hour of temptation: it is universal. It shall come upon the world. That is something to help you understand that to live as an unbeliever is not as rosy as sinners claim. After all, there is no peace for the wicked! The challenge ahead will come for sinners as well as saints. Luckily for you, since you have kept and are still keeping the word of His patience, He will keep you from the hour. Sinners have no such promise. They have no such helper. They will face the fury of God. What a fearful thing it is to fall into the hands of the living God who is a consuming re! Thank God for you. Thank God for your decision to keep His word. Thank God for His keeping grace. God will keep you from the hour of temptation.
Challenge: Every moment of resistance to temptation is a victory. Prayer: Lord, please keep me from the hour of temptation today in Jesus name. 150

26th May

I HAVE SEEN THY TEARS

Turn again, and tell Hezekiah the captain of my people, Thus saith the LORD, the God of David thy father, I have heard thy prayer, I have seen thy tears: behold, I will heal thee: on the third day thou shalt go up unto the house of the LORD. (2 Kings 20:5)

King Hezekiah was sick to the point of death. Prophet Isaiah has conrmed the message from above concerning his end. In a matterof-fact manner Hezekiah had been advised to put his house in order because he was going to die shortly. Hezekiah did not want to die at that time. He decided to pray about this problem and the message above is the message that the Lord sent through Isaiah to Hezekiah to assure him that his prayers have been answered. The message of God to Hezekiah is really an eye opener for every child of God. Here we see that God listens to our prayers. He said I have heard thy prayers. Today the Lord will answer and listen to your prayers. God does not just listen to our prayers, He also sees our tears. To see our tears is a way of saying that God is touched by our emotions. He doesnt like to see us cry, and He will remove whatever things are responsible for our crying. Then the Lord went ahead to specify His intention to heal the sick king and put him back on his feet within three days. Brothers and sisters you also have a right and privilege to expect such a comforting message from the Lord today. Whatever constitutes your most pressing problem right now has already been taken care of by the gracious intervention of God on Calvary. God in heaven has seen your plight and Hes committed to helping you out. Divine favor has overshadowed your claim and you are to wipe away your tears. Heaven has answered already. Praise the Lord.
Challenge: Ye have not because ye ask not. Prayer: Thank You Lord for answered prayers. I am thankful that

You have good plans for me.

151

27th May

USELESS TEARS
For ye know how that afterward, when he would have inherited the blessing, he was rejected: for he found no place of repentance, though he sought it carefully with tears. (Hebrews 12:17).

Brother Esau is still crying. What started as a mere joke became a reality that he couldnt wish away. He wanted what Jacob had and Jacob wanted what he had. It was up to him to accept or reject Jacobs costly joke. He decided to ride along. What does it matter? You think about it. Give me pottage and take my birthright. And so what? Take what you want brother. Just give me food, I am hungry. So Jacob gave him food and went away with his birthright. That is how the younger became the elder. The pottage has digested and Esau is hungry again. A plate of food does not last forever. And Esau can now remember the details of the last encounter with Jacob and how he (Esau) gave a permanent blessing in exchange for a temporary one. Esaus gain has disappeared but Jacobs blessing was yet to appear. Matters came to a head on the day that Isaac their father wanted to bless Esau. Before Esau could return from the wild where he went to look for bush meat, Jacob had used other means to reach the father and went away with the blessings. When Esau came, he was told the blessing had been given and it could not be reversed. When matters reached that level, Esau knew he was in real trouble. He had made a terrible mistake with his food bargain. The Bible says And when Esau heard the words of his father, he cried with a great and exceeding bitter cry, and said unto his father, Bless me, even me also, O my father. (Genesis 27:34). Alas, it was too late. By the grace of God you will not cry useless prayers. Therefore, watch for every bargain you make with people. Do not exchange things of eternal value with temporal blessings.
Challenge: No degree of temptation justies any degree of sin. Prayer: Father, please deliver me from short-sightedness. Help me never to exchange permanent blessings with temporal ones.

152

28th May

THE LIGHT OF THE RIGHTEOUS

The light of the righteous rejoiceth: but the lamp of the wicked shall be put out. (Proverbs 13: 9).

Great blessings will come the way of the youth who is careful to think right, act right and do right. Much havoc is done each time any right thing is done at a wrong time, at the wrong place and for the wrong reason. Right action should be taken at the right time, at the right place, and in the right way. This is consistent with the principle of righteousness. It is when we follow the path of rightdoing that our light will shine in darkness. Jesus told His disciples, Ye are the light of the world Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven. (Matthew 5: 14, 16) . The light of the righteous shows forth the glory of God and manifests by godly deeds. Believers tap the light from the true source, the word of God which is, a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path. (Psalm 119: 105). Nobody can truly walk in the light or do right without obeying the word of God. David determined to watch over his life by being vigilant to the scriptures. He said, Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee. (Psalm 110: 11). Gods word is the light of the righteous. Read it to acquire knowledge, meditate on it to be wise, and practice its precept to shine forth the glory of the Lord. Youths that read the Bible and obey its words grow to be intelligent and live to be righteous.
Challenge: The righteous rejoices in the light of God. Prayer: Dear Lord, keep me in righteousness and help me to walk in the light of your word.

153

29th May

WEAK, BUT USEFUL

But now, O LORD, thou art our father; we are the clay, and thou our potter; and we all are the work of thy hand. (Isaiah 64:8)

It is very likely you may not think of yourself as clay. Perhaps, you are gold? Yes. And what of clay? No. Why? Because you think you are valuable. Because you think you are handsome or beautiful. Because you think you are strong and capable. Because you have always looked on clay as dirt. And you dont like dirty things! Do you? Well, now it is time to think again. Prophet Isaiah spoke for every human being. He said we are clay. Dirty, brown, and earthen clay! Thats what he said. Isaiah was right. You see, every human being born in the world is born in sin. So hes dirty. Sin is dirty and so is every sinner. Thats why we are clay. But clay can be molded into dierent things in dierent shapes. So can you. Your life can be changed from bad to good as clay is changed from ordinary mud into a beautiful mug. That is the nice thing about being a piece of clay. There is no limit to what the clay can become and when it is molded and red, it becomes useful. As you go out today pray like Isaiah. Ask God, the best potter, to work on you today and make your life a blessing. Then even though you may be as weak as ordinary clay, God will make you useful and precious as gold.
Challenge: I am clay in Gods hand. Prayer: Dear heavenly Father, make me a good and useful tool in

Your hands today.

154

30th May

YOUR SORROW SHALL BE TURNED INTO JOY

Verily, verily, I say unto you, That ye shall weep and lament, but the world shall rejoice: and ye shall be sorrowful, but your sorrow shall be turned into joy. (John 16:20).

Jesus was called the man of sorrow. He knew sorrow as a man and he once cried at the graveside of his friend Lazarus. He suered hunger. He knew what it meant to be denied and deprived. He knew pain and disappointment. If Jesus were a student attending the same school as you, He would probably not have had as much pocket money given him. Compared to what you take to school now, He probably would have taken less. His shoes would not be as costly as yours, and He probably would have managed with the barest comfort. Academically, He would have been the best but nancially and otherwise He would have suered. He knew sorrows. When He knew the time of His death was near, He called His disciples and told them the passage you have read this morning. Why? So they will know what to do when the time of pain and sorrow come in their lives. And also to prepare you too for such a time in your life when you might have so much trouble you could think God does not love you anymore. He spoke from His experience of pain and sorrows. No pain lasts forever and no sorrow will remain perpetually. In the eternal plan and program of God your sorrow MUST CHANGE to joy! Say Amen to that. Let this be a comforting word for you as you go out today. God has ordained it, Jesus has conrmed it: your sorrow will be turned to joy! Amen.
Challenge: Weeping may endure a night, joy comes in the morning. Prayer: O God of all grace turn my sorrows to joy today in Jesus

name.

155

31st May

SICK BROTHERS!
So Amnon lay down, and made himself sick: and when the king was come to see him, Amnon said unto the king, I pray thee, let Tamar my sister come, and make me a couple of cakes in my sight, that I may eat at her hand. (2 Samuel 13:6).

The young man was called Amnon but the name could as well be any other. It could be Dike, Shawn, James, or David. It could be Bill, Ben or Henry. It could even be your own name whatever name you might bear. The fact is that this boy was not sick at all! He only made himself sick. And that is the kind of sickness medicine can never cure. Young boys and girls like to feign sickness for dierent reasons. In the case of Amnon, he pretended that he was sick because he wanted to have the opportunity to commit immorality. Other people pretend they are sick because they may not want to go to school. Some pretend in order to avoid doing household chores. Some even say they are sick so they will not go to church! Look at Amnon again on his bed. See him cover his head, shivering. See him whispering gently to people Please, close the window! Im feeling so coooold! See Amnon, the liar and pretender. He was scheming and wishing himself evil all because of a wrong desire. How easy it is for us young people to direct our energy into the wrong things. The Bible says Let the weak say I am strong, Amnon says Let the strong say I am weak. The Bible says the glory of the youth is their strength but Amnon says the glory of the youth is pretense. You will not be like Amnon. You will not live by deception. You will not be sick by pretense. And if you are sick physically, the Lord will heal you today in Jesus name.
Challenge: I will not live a life of pretense. Prayer: Whether physical or spiritual, heal me of every sickness today O Lord.

156

1st June

THEY ARE PRAYING FOR YOU!

The LORD recompense thy work, and a full reward be given thee of the LORD God of Israel, under whose wings thou art come to trust. (Ruth 2:12).

Although Boaz had never met Ruth face to face, he had heard a lot about her. Everything he heard about her was good. And even though he was a man of means who could have provided all the needs of Ruth, what came to his mind the rst time he saw her was prayers prayers to God for her faith, her fervency and future. That surely is better than money. Like Ruth, there are many people out there whom you are going to meet today who have a prayer for you. Its true that the world is evil but it wont be an evil world for you today. You will meet a Boaz specially sent by God to meet you and bless you for your work and labor of love. Everything you have been doing for the Lord and the church has been noted by God. He will repay you with good. You will receive abundance of the good seed you have sown over time. Have you worked hard and the result does not justify your eorts? Dont worry. God has raised somebody, somewhere praying to the mercy seat that a full reward be given thee. You will not manage with half. You will receive the full measure of rewards from the Lord God of Israel. Since you have chosen to leave the old life of sin that you used to love, and come to Christ and trust under His wings, you have become a marked boy or girl. You are marked for divine blessings and prosperity because somebody, somewhere, is praying for you right now! Halleluiah!
Challenge: A child of God is a child of favor. Prayer: May every person I will come in contact with today, be an avenue of blessing unto me.

157

2nd June

GODS REWARD SYSTEM

And he saw also a certain poor widow casting in thither two mites. (Luke 21:2).

Jesus is going to the temple. Lets follow Him. Okay, here He comes. He went in and sat outside. Ah! See Him! Hes looking at people putting oerings in the temple bags. Here comes a millionaire. Wow! Look at all those wads of new notes. Everything was dropped in the bag. He must have put in thousands! Another one comes. What? Where do they get so much money for oering? These people, I am sure they are doing all these to impress Jesus. But why isnt Jesus smiling? Did you see that old lady? Yes, the widow over there. She is putting an oering in the .Whats this? Two mites! Look at her. Others came and dropped thousands and she brought only two mites. Doesnt she have shame? How could she come to the temple to oer only two mites? Such a small amount of money! Shhhh! Keep quiet. Jesus is talking! Yes, Lord. What did He say? He said we should give our life, time and money to God. We should give our treasures, our thoughts and our talents to God. He also said we should not just give our money and materials, we must give our best and our all to God. We must give God everything that really matter to us. Jesus said He would give more rewards in heaven to the poor widow, who gave everything she had to him, than the rich men who merely gave but without sacrice. He said the reward system of God is dierent from what we are used to. God rewards sacrice, not selshness. He rewards humility not haughtiness, submission not rebellion. No matter how invaluable, God will not accept anything given with pride. Now that you know what God will reward in anything you do, run that ye may obtain.
Challenge: God rewards those who diligently seek Him. Prayer: Help me to do things that will make You happy today.

158

3rd June

MORNING WISHES
Cause me to hear thy loving kindness in the morning; for in thee do I trust: cause me to know the way wherein I should walk; for I lift up my soul unto thee. (Psalm 143:8)

Father, I thank You for waking me up this morning. I am grateful for taking care of me through the night. Blessed be Your holy name. As I wake up this morning Lord, I pray You cause and make me to hear Your loving-kindness this morning. I live in a world of sin, a world lled with noises of hatred, violence and evil. But in the midst of this terrible situation Lord, cause me, make me, help me to hear what You alone are saying. I can hear some noises around me already. More will still come. None of these will bless me like Your love. Your voice calms my fears and takes away my pain. Thats why I want to hear You talk and speak to me. I trust in You Lord, so speak to me today in Jesus name. And please Lord, cause me to know the way I should walk today. Direct my life, my ways and my walk. I am prone to making mistakes so please cause me to walk in a way that will please You. Like David the Psalmist, I am surrounded by many angry people like Saul who do not want my progress and success. Please guide me and direct my actions today so that I will do only the things that pleases You alone. I am sure that if You guide and direct me today, no enemy will take advantage of me. And best of all, I would have spent this day doing things that honor You and make You happy. Dear Father, cause me to hear Thy loving-kindness in the morning and please cause me to know the way I should walk in Jesus name.
Challenge: Blessed are all those who put their trust in Him. Prayer: Make me to wait on You and look up to You for instructions in all that I do today in Jesus name.

159

4th June

THE KINGS DAUGHTER

The king's daughter is all glorious within: her clothing is of wrought gold. (Psalm 45:13).

The kings daughter is no ordinary girl. She is special. Think about it, everything about her is special. To start with, she lives in a special house called palace. She goes to special school, walks with special people and receives special attention from her parents. But the worth of the kings daughter is not only external. The verse above tells us that she is internally and externally beautiful. Internally, she is glorious. Something glorious is having glory; magnicently beautiful and splendidly adorned. It is good looking and nice. God sees everyone and everything! He, as King, looks at His daughter and nds her forgiven, clean and righteous within. No secret sin. No rebellion and no wrinkle or stain. That is the kings daughter for you! Externally, the kings daughter is wearing a garment of gold. That shows the quality of her life and behavior. We see quality in her, quality on her and in all she does. This is no cheap lady. She goes to the right places, moves with the right people and does everything to honor her father the King. You cant get her involved in immorality, occult practices or any scandal. She is a true child of the King! Dear reader, are you a girl and can we call you also the Kings daughter? Will the King of kings call you His own daughter? And you boys are you also children of the King? Its not dicult to belong to Jesus the King. Repent of your sins today, and surrender your life to Him. Then, open up your heart and life to Him and accept Him as your Savior. Thats how to get the royal blood owing through your veins. You will then become the Kings son or daughter indeed.
Challenge: Character is what remains after Gods re has consumed

my weaknesses.

Payer: God, please make my life beautiful for your glory.

160

5th June

GOD OF WORMS
But God prepared a worm when the morning rose the next day, and it smote the gourd that it withered. (Jonah 4:7).

Good morning. Read the above verse please. Read it again. Good. You remember the story? Its about Jonah. He had just concluded a powerful crusade that really shook the city of Nineveh. No campaign in human history was more successful as the entire community turned around and repented of their sins. Strangely, Jonah was sad at the turn of events. He wanted God to destroy Nineveh repentance or no repentance. Trust God, He is a loving Father. He decided to teach Jonah in a very practical way; so he visited him where he was waiting outside the city of Nineveh. Since he was outside the city, there was no cover for his head so God made a miracle shelter for him. He allowed a gourd to grow overnight to provide shade for him from the blazing sun. Jonah liked and thoroughly enjoyed the miracle sanctuary. He was really glad for the provision. That was the day before. Behold, But God prepared a worm when the morning rose the next day, and it smote the gourd that it withered. On this particular, God came with step two of His plan. While Jonah was dreaming of another pleasant day, God prepared a worm to eat up the gourd so that Jonah would not enjoy the comfort of another day under shade! Just imagine. God made the gourd, and then made the worms that devoured it. Why? Because Jonah was not grateful! He didnt count his blessings. Jonah looked around and was not happy that God was blessing the people of Nineveh! Today as you go out, dont be like Jonah. Thank God for all He did and is doing in your life and in the lives of other people around you. As you bless Him, He will bless you more. Praise the Lord
Challenge: Praise is the rehearsal of our eternal song. Charles

Spurgeon.

Prayer: Lord I praise You for everything You have done for me, in me and through me. Thank You for what you are also doing in the lives of people around me. 161

6th June

COAT OF MANY COLORS

And it came to pass, when Joseph was come unto his brethren, that they stripped Joseph out of his coat, his coat of many colours that was on him. (Genesis 37:23)

The brothers of Joseph did not like the fashionable dress their father bought for him. They hated Joseph and detested his coat of many colours. On this particular day, they had the opportunity to treat Joseph anyhow since he was alone and their father was not around to protect him. What did they do rst to show their hatred? They removed his coat. That must have been their greatest object of extreme dislike. It seems the dress was more important to the brothers than to Joseph himself. How? Well, what kind of dresses do people wear to the farm? You denitely will not wear your best attire to the farm to see your brothers if you were Joseph. Will you? That was the mistake that the brothers of Joseph made. The coat Joseph was wearing outside was no big deal. He would remove that one every night and he would still be the same sweet Joseph. It is the inner coat of many colours that Joseph wore that really mattered to him. The brothers could not remove that from him. He took it with him to Egypt. The coat was on him in Potiphars house. He was wearing it the day Potiphars wife came to tempt him. He said no to her evil intentions because the coat was on him. He took the inner coat of many colours to prison where he was sent. He wore it everywhere and all the time. He was still wearing it when his brothers came back several years later. He did not outgrow the coat till he died. You too need your own coat of many colours. You must wear it today and for the rest of your lives. Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy and beloved, bowels of mercies, kindness, humbleness of mind, meekness, longsuering. And above all these things put on charity, which is the bond of perfectness. (Colossians 3:12, 14)
Challenge: When wealth is lost, nothing is lost; when health is lost, something is lost; when character is lost, all is lost! Prayer: Make my life a blessing Lord and make me a person of good character. 162

7th June

THE DEVILS FORMULA

But he went in, and stood before his master. And Elisha said unto him, Whence comest thou, Gehazi? And he said, Thy servant went no whither. (2 Kings 5:25)

There is a formula the devil likes to use. He used it before and is using it seriously today. It is a simple formula: Liturgy + Lying = Leprosy. Liturgy is another word for worship. It is public service or as the Oxford Dictionary puts it, a worship of the gods. Serving God Almighty as a priest is the duty of Gehazi, the servant of Elisha. He has seen Gods power at close quarters. He had every reason to be good his master was. Whatever virtue we see in his life would not be a surprise because we do not expect anything less. Unfortunately, Gehazi combined his liturgy with lying. Lying is the act of making an intentional false statement; an untruth. It is something like what Gehazi did in the verse above. He just returned from a trip where he went to receive the gifts that his Master rejected from Naaman. Now standing before his master, see how he denies going anywhere. Gehazis brazen lie did not go down well with his God and his master. His lie was uncovered immediately and he was pronounced a leper for the rest of his life. As far as God is concerned, all liars are lepers. Whether you are a supposed man of God, child of God or friend of God, religious activity cannot go with lying. A quick Bible study will show that God will frustrate liars (Isa 44:25) and liars are devils children (John 8:44). No liar will make heaven. But the fearful, and unbelieving, and the abominable, and murderers, and whoremongers, and sorcerers, and idolaters, and all liars, shall have their part in the lake which burneth with re and brimstone: which is the second death. (Revelation 21:8)
Challenge: A liar is not believed even though he tells the truth

name.

Prayer: Help me to tell the truth today in all I say or do in Jesus 163

8th June

TAMARS DILEMMA
And Tamar put ashes on her head, and rent her garment of divers colours that was on her, and laid her hand on her head, and went on crying. (2 Samuel 13:19).

What are you going to do when the unexpected happens? When you are betrayed by friends and abandoned by classmates, what will you do? You need to know now because the unexpected happened the day Tamar went to her half-brothers house. She had gone there on the instruction of her father David. Yet the entire plea for chastity and reason did not stop Amnon from forcing his will on her. Afterwards, Tamar was driven out with shame and ignominy and went on crying. This year, you will not cry in shame in Jesus name. We still live in a dangerous and evil world of charlatans and deceivers. You have seen the example of Tamar. You need not wait until you too become a casualty before you take caution. To avoid similar disaster, remember TAMAR: T Temptation. Temptation to compromise will come your way. Always remember there is a way out for you. (1 Corinthians 10:13) A Agreement. Never agree to do evil with anyone, anytime. (2 Corinthians 6:16) M Modesty. When you are modest, you are moderate and reasonable in the things you do and the way you do them. Do not attract unnecessary attention to yourself. Exercise self-control. (Philippians 4:5) A Attitude. How you respond to negative situations that come your way in life is very important. God has the power to bring something good out of bad ones. (Romans 8:28) R Retreat. There is a lot of wisdom in running away from some things. Joseph ran from Potiphars wife. Learn to avoid sources of temptations (Exodus 13:17)
Challenge: Many receive advice, only the wise prot by it. Prayer: Give me courage and wisdom to do the right things in all my contact with people today. 164

9th June

GOODWILL IS IMPORTANT
But the LORD said to David my father, Forasmuch as it was in thine heart to build an house for my name, thou didst well in that it was in thine heart. (2 Chronicles 6:8).

If you are a child of God, then you are like David who also knew the Lord. Not only did David know the Lord, he loved Him and wanted to do something good for Him. One day while David was in his house an idea came to him to build a house for God, just like he did for himself. He sent for Nathan the prophet and told him of his desire to put up a temple for God. Nathan thought it was a good idea too. But God said no. He did not allow David to build a house for Him. (You can read up the full story in 2 Samuel 7.) But even though he did not build the temple, God commended David for thinking of doing it. God said he did well in allowing the thought to be in his heart. Goodwill is important. The Oxford English Dictionary dened goodwill in three ways. First of all, it is virtuous, pious, or honest disposition or intention. Secondly, goodwill is kindly feeling towards a person, cause, etc.; favor; benevolence. The third denition is that goodwill is cheerful acquiescence or consent; heartiness, zeal. Whatever denition you prefer, goodwill is good! You too may not be able to do everything. But God will always appreciate the thoughts of your heart. When you think of serving God in school and outside school, that is goodwill. When you wish missionaries well even though you may not be able to go, that is goodwill. When you pray for the sick in the hospital even if you did not have the opportunity to visit them yourself, that is good will. Or maybe like David, God impresses a project in your heart and you cannot carry it out yourself. Never mind. God is happy that you lled your mind with good thoughts about His work and kingdom. He will reward your eorts and faith.
Challenge: Think prayerfully, think carefully, and think wonderfully. Prayer: Open my eyes to see other areas in which I can be useful for You, my Lord and King. 165

10th June

THEY SAID YOU WILL FAIL

And Saul said to David, Thou art not able to go against this Philistine to fight with him: for thou art but a youth, and he a man of war from his youth. (1 Samuel 17:33)

Wonders will never end. There goes King Saul, the backslider, counseling David, the beloved of God. You know what he told him? His advice is in the verse above. He said David should not go and ght Goliath. He said David was a small boy who couldnt ght. He even praised Goliath highly. He said Goliath had been a warrior from his youth. What he confessed of Goliath, he was denying David. Thank God, David did not listen to him. Never pay attention to any ungodly advice from anyone! You are not going to listen to the people who speak and live like King Saul in your school or your community. When they say you are too small to pray, serve or do the will of God, you must not listen to them. When they say you cannot pass SAT or High School without cheating, you must not listen to them. When they say you will not meet the requirement for college admission except you cheat, you must ignore their prophecy. When they say to you that no youngster can live without a boyfriend or a girlfriend as sin partner, you must not pay attention to them. Any boy or girl or adult for that matter who will tell you that God cannot help you when you lean on Him deserves to be ignored. David was right in refusing to heed the advice of Saul. Saul had suered spiritual and physical defeat for so long that he was now used to it. He had been in the battleeld for forty days without being able to face Goliath himself or send any of his regular soldiers! He was a loser. David was not a loser. He faced Goliath and defeated him in his rst attempt. He had four other stones he could have used if the rst one failed. You too like David will win. You are not a loser in Jesus name. Go out there today and prove the false prophets wrong!
Challenge: The men that move the world are the men that do not allow the world to move them. Prayer: Lord, I need you to help me put the devil to shame today. Help me to do a spectacular work that will show forth your power in me. 166

11th June

YOUR ENEMY JUST DIED!

Saying, Arise, and take the young child and his mother, and go into the land of Israel: for they are dead which sought the young child's life. (Matthew 2:20)

When you were a baby the enemy wanted to kill you but, thank God, you escaped. Yesterday, the enemy again sought to harm and destroy your life. Today, he is dead and once again he failed. Just as you were wondering like Joseph did in Egypt about the fate of the baby Jesus, an angel comes with the news: Herod is dead. Herod is the enemy after infant Jesus but now he is dead and Jesus is alive. Praise the Lord. We live in a world of evil with the devil giving all sorts of evil powers to his servants. The result is that witches and wizards often pursue children of God with the plan and purpose of destroying their lives and testimonies. They cause all sorts of havoc. They attack people and sometimes inict sickness and injuries on them. They even make students to fail examinations, develop negative habits and turn away from following the Lord. But if the devil has been running after you before now theres going to be a change. The angel has brought the information from heaven. Your foes are dead. The one who wanted to harm and destroy you is dead. Now that the information has come what are you to do? Praise the Lord for what He has done. Plead the blood of Jesus over your life, your work and family. Pray without ceasing. Position yourself. Take advantage of your position.

Exercise your spiritual dominion over the enemy and begin to do what fear would not allow you to do before. You are free in Jesus name.
Challenge: No weapon that is fashioned against you shall prosper. Prayer: Help me O Lord to be conscious of my privileges and positions in Christ today in Jesus name. 167

12th June

BROKEN SHIPS
Then Eliezer the son of Dodavah of Mareshah prophesied against Jehoshaphat, saying, Because thou hast joined thyself with Ahaziah, the LORD hath broken thy works. And the ships were broken, that they were not able to go to Tarshish. (2 Chronicles 20:37).

Broken ships are bad for business. That was the lesson Jehoshaphat had to learn. Jehoshaphat, king of Judah had purchased the ten ships to trade in gold. They were to shuttle between Judah and Ophir to trac gold. God was not happy that Jehoshaphat had become too friendly with Amaziah, the king of Israel. Amaziah was no ordinary king. He was the son of Ahab, one of Israels most wicked kings. Like his father, Amaziah proved to be ungodly too and God was not happy that Jehoshaphat (a God-fearing king) had become his intimate friend and business partner. God is not happy with his children who get too close to unbelievers. God showed His unhappiness at this unholy alliance between Jehoshaphat and Amaziah by breaking the ships they were to use for their business. God, in love, is still breaking many ships tying believers and unbelievers together in unequal yoke. A Christian student should work hard and relate well with his classmates but we should know how far we should go. Because God knows that evil communication corrupts good manners, he would not want you to make unbelievers your best friends. If you do, then expect Gods displeasure. The relationship will result in broken ships. The prophecy of Eliezer is still working against unholy alliances today. Be careful in the choice of your friends so that you will not make yourself an enemy of God.
Challenge: He that lies down with dogs shall rise up with eas. Prayer: Lord, please give me the wisdom to associate with the right kind of people today in Jesus name.

168

13th June

MERCENARIES!
He hired also an hundred thousand mighty men of valor out of Israel for an hundred talents of silver. But there came a man of God to him, saying, O king, let not the army of Israel go with thee; for the LORD is not with Israel, to wit, with all the children of Ephraim. 2 (Chronicles 25:6, 7).

Who is a mercenary? A mercenary is (i) A person who works merely for money or other material reward; a hireling. (ii) A person who receives payment for his or her services; a professional soldier serving a foreign power. That is the dictionary meaning. Today a mercenary means something else to students preparing for SAT or ACT. For a student, a mercenary is a helper. He/She is someone who helps another student to write or pass an examination. He is a fake but a popular gure among the swelling rank of lazy and academically weak and unfaithful students or criminals. Our passage for meditation this morning is very instructive. It tells us the story of Amaziah, the good king of Judah. He was to ght the Edomites so he gathered the soldiers he could nd in Judah. He found 300,000. Because he was convinced they were not enough he went to Israel, a neighboring, but backslidden kingdom to hire 100,000 soldiers more. He sought the help of mercenaries to ght his battle. God told him not to use the mercenaries as they would not do him any good. Listen friend, no mercenary will do you any real good in your examinations. You are the one who is the learner so buckle up and prepare well. You are a hard working student who will receive a just reward for your labor. You are not a cheat or a liar. You are not interested in obtaining certicate by false pretenses. You really want to learn, thats why you are in school. The Lord will crown your eorts with success in Jesus name. Say no to examination malpractice
Challenge: A student is appreciated by his conduct in his examinations. Prayer: Father, please give me the understanding I need to prepare

well for my examinations.

169

14th June

GOING FURTHER IN PRAYER

And he went a little further, and fell on his face, and prayed, saying, O my Father, if it be possible, let this cup pass from me: nevertheless not as I will, but as thou wilt. (Matthew 26:39).

You too, like Jesus must pray. Before you leave your room today, pray. Before you sleep tonight, pray. When you get to your school, pray. And do not forget to pray when you return. Pray without ceasing, just like Jesus. The Lord Jesus Christ lived a life of prayer. Yet in this instance He went further than His disciples, further than His detractors and prayed! Peter, James and John were willing but their esh was weak. So instead of praying they would rather sleep. They are not the kind of people we would want you to copy. You will rather be like Jesus and go further in prayer. The question is how can you move further in prayer? Just take the following steps:

Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17). That means do not

allow anything to stop you from praying. Just pray and continue to pray.

Pray with the spirit. (1 Corinthians 14:15) Thats what you do in

emergency situations without opening your mouth. You talk to God with your mind without speaking out.

Pray everywhere. (1 Timothy 2:8) That doesnt mean you will be

disturbing people by talking everywhere. No it means you pray in the Spirit in all the places you nd yourself. Youll pray at home and pray in the school on the road and in the market.

Pray one for another. (James 5:16)Yes, you must pray for other

people. Pray for your friends and classmates. Pray for daddy and mummy and all your brothers and sisters. Pray for your teachers and pastors. And lest we forget, pray for us here at Higher Every day!
Challenge: Praying oers us a better reward than playing. Prayer: Give me grace O Lord to use this day wisely in talking to you appropriately. 170

15th June

THE MINISTRY OF JUDAS

That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place. (Acts 1:25).

So Judas had a ministry! That was what Peter said while talking to the other disciples shortly after Jesus left them and went to heaven. Read it in Acts 1 from verses 15 through 26. There Peter gave us the important information that Judas was numbered with them and he obtained part of their ministry. That is like saying Judas was one of them. And truly wasnt he? Jesus even made him the treasurer! He was the guy in charge of the accounts and by all means that was a big post. Yes, Judas had a ministry. But, sorry, the ministry did not last. You know that Judas was not there when Jesus resurrected. Judas did not see the nail scarred hand. He did not touch the scar in the side of Jesus like Thomas did. He did not eat the special meal Jesus cooked for the disciples at the sea of Tiberias. He missed the very last meal and challenge Jesus gave the ones who followed Him to the end. Judas did not follow Jesus to the end. Peter said Judas by transgression fell. That is another way of saying He failed to continue to serve the Lord to the end because he sinned. He fell. Sin is the major cause of loss of ministry. Have you ever fallen while playing on the football eld? That is a small thing! Have you ever tripped and fell while walking on the road? That is nothing! This kind of fall is a real hard fall; the one that makes one to suer shame on earth and in eternity. Judas lost more than position, for in losing ones ministry one loses everything one has done, and could have done. One has lost everything! As you go out today, may the Lord help and guide you so you dont lose your ministry!
Challenge: Prevention is better than cure Prayer: Help me O Lord today to keep myself free from sin. Help me to do correctly everything you want me to do.

171

16th June

WHERE IS YOUR TIMETABLE?

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

You wish to get a very good result in your class! Where is your timetable? You seek the best and want to pass? Where is your timetable? Could it be you are one of the saints? Where is your timetable? Its not the best to smear the paints, Where is your timetable? Pauls challenge was clear and true Where is your timetable? Brother Tim, you must give clue, Where is your timetable? You need your own I need my own. Where is your timetable? You cant go far, experience has shown, Without your timetable. Your timetable is your friend indeed A faithful helper when you read, Will show your worth, your wastes and need. Yes, you need a timetable!
Challenge: Your timetable shows your terms battle, win it. Prayer: Help me O Lord to be an organized person in the way I

carry out my work and assignments today.

172

17th June

THE IRON DID SWIM

And the man of God said, Where fell it? And he shewed him the place. And he cut down a stick, and cast it in thither; and the iron did swim. (2 Kings 6:6)

The Lord will make this day a very special day for you. Today, iron shall swim for you. Miracles will follow you. Every loss will be recovered and every need will be met in Jesus name. Elisha accompanied the sons of the prophets on divine assignments. They might not have known, but heaven knew they would need a miracle before the day was over. Elishas presence was required, and thank God, he was available. The borrowed axe head fell into the river and the saints were temporarily helpless, confused and concerned. But Elisha was informed of the problem and the situation was reversed. He threw more things in the river (he cut a piece of wood and threw it in) and faith did the impossible. The sunken axe head oated to the surface. The iron did swim! Mark it friend, today will be a day like no other. The Lord will surprise you in every way in all you do. You will receive miracles from every angle. Blessings will ow powerfully into your life today. As you walk and follow the instructions of the Elishas that God will bring into your life today, you will never be the same in Jesus name. Your iron will swim.
Challenge: My miracle is here. Prayer: Be it unto me O Lord today according to your word. I am blessed mightily in Jesus name.

173

18th June

STILL WATERS
And that ye study to be quiet, and to do your own business, and to work with your own hands, as we commanded you. (1 Thessalonians 4:11)

Every owing river has its deep spots. If you have the time to follow the course of a river, you will soon observe that the noisy parts of the river are often shallow. The areas that show no sign of movement of water are the areas referred to as still. Most times they are deep, that is why people say that still waters run deep. When you want to catch sh with hook you go to the part of the river that is still. That is where shes are. One who stands to catch sh where the current is strong is wasting his time. Even shes understand the language of quietness. Still waters are home to sea creatures. Have you not noticed generally that most of the time the real brilliant students are not the talkative or noisy students? The brains of the class are deep. They are quiet, level-headed, thoughtful and less likely to be rebuked or corrected for noise-making. That is why the Bible verse above instructs us to study to be quiet. Learn to be quiet and you will discover that talkativeness is the reason why you have been getting into so many troubles of late. Be quiet in class and see how valuable the few words you have to say will become.
Challenge: Empty barrels make much noise. Prayer: Help me O Lord to be quiet and simple in all I do today in Jesus name.

174

19th June

BITTER MEALS, BITTER MEALS

Better is a dinner of herbs where love is, than a stalled ox and hatred therewith. (Proverbs 15:17)

Everybody knows it is only adults who like vegetables. Children and young people dont. Lettuce, carrots, spinach are alright for those who want. We young people want it sweet and dainty. Care for a taste of bitter leaf? No, thanks, I prefer ice cream. Come to think of it, have you ever heard of bitter leaf biscuits? Is there any fast food chain selling bitter leaf salad? Which confectionery will manufacture cod liver oil sweets for students? None for now! We like it sweet and dainty, not bitter and nauseating. Yet, the Bible wants us to know that herbs are not our enemies. A dinner of herbs is still the choice of the wise. It is good to eat herbs as they supply essential minerals and vitamins for our bodies normal growth and development. Part of the secret of the strength of the Israelites in Egypt must have been their meals of cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlic (Number 11:5). You too must keep yourself healthy through your diet. So it is good to eat carrot. It is ne to eat cabbage and fresh vegetable salad from time to time. The rule is, the more natural your meal, the more nutritious it is. Take good care of your health and be wise. Bitter meals are often the better meals.
Challenge: How come bitter leaves always leave a sweet taste in the

mouth?

Prayer: Give me the wisdom to watch what I eat so I can always feed well.

175

20th June

MEN PLEASERS
But after two years Porcius Festus came into Felix' room: and Felix, willing to shew the Jews a pleasure, left Paul bound. (Acts 24:27).

Are you a man-pleaser? Felix was one. A man pleaser is someone who does bad things primarily to make others happy. Felix knew that Paul was not a criminal. He knew he was not guilty. He had even listened to him pretending to appreciate him and his message. But he did not release him from prison. Why? He knew that the Jews did not want Paul to be free. He did what they wanted. He was a man pleaser. When you also do things only because you wanted your friends to be happy, you are a man pleaser. When you allow fellow students to copy your notes in the examination, you are a man pleaser. When you agree with boys and girls who are writing letters to you because they want to be your boyfriend or girlfriend, you are a man pleaser. When you join boys and girls in your class to insult your teachers and school authorities, you are a man pleaser. When you join the multitude to do evil, you are a man pleaser. God is not happy with men pleasers. And He will not be happy with you if you join them. His word in Proverbs 29:25 says: The fear of man bringeth a snare: but whoso putteth his trust in the LORD shall be safe. I pray that the Lord deliver us from the fear of man in Jesus name
Challenge: Those who have seen the face of God need not fear the

face of man.

Prayer: I will do things that will make You happy today, Lord. I will

not be afraid of any man.

176

21st June

BRIBERY: NO GIVERS, NO TAKERS

He hoped also that money should have been given him of Paul, that he might loose him: wherefore he sent for him the oftener, and communed with him. (Acts 24:26).

Do you know why it has been so dicult to stop bribery in our country? It is because some people are always willing to give it, and there are people willing to receive. As long as there are people who want to give bribe, there will always be people willing to receive it from them! Yes, once there are givers, there will be takers. Look at Paul. He was put in prison. The big man in charge, Felix, wanted to collect money from him. He had the power to release Paul and he was willing to do so provided Paul will pay. But Paul did not give him what he wanted. As a result, Paul remained locked up in prison for two years. Still he did not give the bribe! Some may laugh at Paul and call him stupid. Some may wonder why he had to suer and be locked up for two years when he could have given the bribe and go free. If he had done that, Paul would not have been Paul. He would have been a Demas or Judas or any other cheap plain backslider. Thank God for Paul, a true apostle of the Lord. Today as you go out I pray that the Lord will empower you to stand up for your convictions and that He will grant you the determination not to give bribe to anyone in Jesus name. Remember if you dont give, no one will take from you!
Challenge: Whatever you gain through compromise, you cannot retain by conviction.

Prayer: Help me to do everything I will do today for your glory, O Lord.

177

22nd June

WELL DONE!
His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. (Matthew 25:21).

Well done! That is a remark we all look for whenever we are given any assignment. It does not come at the beginning of our work. Unfortunately too, it does not come at the end of every work. In the passage above, the well done remark is from the Lord of the servant. You know who that is, dont you? Please think of the last time somebody told you well done. Was it not because you did something good? You did things that made a good impression on that fellow. Well done is a language of commendation! But that is not all. Have you noticed that the commendation always come at the end of an assignment? People will tell you well done, only at the completion of a project not in the beginning or when you are half way through. Well done is not a remark for drop outs! Whatever you may have to do today, stay long enough at it to receive your well done. Do not leave any project half completed when you can nish it successfully. Do you have notes to copy? Begin and nish it before you do something else. Are you to do any household chore? Do it well and get it over promptly. That is how to get your well done.
Challenge: Whatsoever is worth doing at all is worth doing well. Prayer: Lord, help me to begin and nish well, all the things I have

to do today.

178

23rd June

PLEASE, HELP!
And when she had opened it, she saw the child: and, behold, the babe wept. And she had compassion on him, and said, This is one of the Hebrews' children. (Exodus 2:6)

Jochebed knew that putting baby Moses by the riverside was a risky business. What with all the crocodiles and other dangerous animals around! So many bad things could have happened to him. By the time the daughter of Pharaoh saw the baby in the small ark his mother made, she understood why a baby had to be exposed to such danger. She knew he was a Hebrew boy and Hebrew boys were to be killed. Then the baby started crying and Pharaohs daughter had to do everything in her power to help baby Moses. In some ways you are like Pharaohs daughter. Around you, at home and in school are some small, small people who do not have as much privilege and opportunities as you have. Some are academically weak and helpless. Others are sick and needy. Many come from less privileged homes and places. One thing is common to them all. They, like the baby Moses are weeping. They are seeking your help. Will you not help them? Please take time to help our weak brothers and sisters today. All that many of them need is a little care. Brother to brother, sister to sister, look out for classmates and friends you may help to write notes, read with and assist in one way or the other. Before this day is over, please nd time to help someone.
Challenge: A good way to forget your troubles is to help others get out of their own. Prayer: Please make my life a blessing Lord, and use me to help other people today.

179

24th June

PARENTAL PRAYERS
Then Manoah intreated the LORD, and said, O my Lord, let the man of God which thou didst send come again unto us, and teach us what we shall do unto the child that shall be born. (Judges 13:8).

Mr. Manoah is praying again. Everybody knows the man could pray. Before now, he used to pray for a child. Now he is praying for wisdom to know how to take care of the child. Is that necessary? Yes. Till today your parents are still praying. Whether born again or not, your parents are still praying for you. I pray that God will answer their prayers. Like Manoah, your parents are seriously aware of their limitations. They are conscious of how helpless and weak they are as to your true needs and desires. They recognize their little knowledge about your health and other needs. That is why they are praying for knowledge to do the best for you. Your parents are praying for your success. Like every good parent waiting for the safe delivery of their babies, they knew Satan could make your birth a dicult one. So they had to pray for wisdom to know what to do. Now that you are born, how do they give you the best? What school should you attend? Till today your parents have not stopped praying for divine intervention in your life. Therefore as you go out today put yourself in line for blessing and work hard at being a source of joy to your parents. Remember, your life is the answer to their prayers.
Challenge: He who prays not pays a lot. Prayer: Help me to live right, think right and make my parents

happy today in Jesus name.

180

25th June

BROTHER SAMUEL
And Elkanah went to Ramah to his house. And the child did minister unto the LORD before Eli the priest. (1 Samuel 2:11).

Brother Samuel lives in the temple. He has been there since he was a toddler. He was the only kid in a world of men. He stays and lives in the house of God. Brother Samuel loved the temple. He didnt mind his parents leaving him behind when they returned to Ramah. He made up his mind to adjust to his new environment. What a challenge for boys and girls going to a new school or getting into the boarding school. One thing you must know about Brother Samuel. He is so godly. He knows how to do his Quiet Time. He knows how to pray, talk to and hear from God. He is a small pastor. Everybody knows Brother Samuel is gentle and kind. He is hardworking and dependable. He runs errands for Uncles Hophni and Phinehas without complaints. He does every household errand on schedule, and he never plays with his assignments in school. You too can be a Brother Samuel today whether you are a boy or girl. You were born to burn for God, so you will be useful for God and His people today. Like Samuel, you will be a true youth minister. You will not indulge your esh in any evil practices or wrong behavior. You will work hard at doing the right things, in the right ways and at the right times. Yes, you too will be a minister, like Brother Samuel. Praise the Lord!
Challenge: You are the only one who can do your part. Prayer: Lord, touch me and make me a channel of blessing

today. Please help me to conduct myself in a good and godly way throughout today.

181

26th June

LORD, I BELIEVE
And straightway the father of the child cried out, and said with tears, Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief. (Mark 9:24).

This is the story of an honest father. He took his child to Jesus for healing. Jesus was not around when he rst came and so the disciples, excluding the three who went with Jesus, started to pray for him. They prayed and prayed but there was no improvement. By the time Jesus came, everybody had given up hope and got discouraged about expecting a miracle. When Jesus came, He hit the man hard. If you can believe, Jesus said, all things are possible. The man knew he must change. But how do you believe when it is so easy not to believe? The child is still sick and the prayers have stopped. Honesty in prayers means you respond in faith to the word of the Lord. If you can believe .. Yes, I can. I can believe. In fact right now I do believe. Okay, what else do I do? Do I start to confess the negative? What do I gain by that? I believe Lord but now I even see a new light. I need healing myself before my sick child. Heal me of my unbelief. Remove the fear of man from me and help me take your word as nal. It is a simple prayer, but a candid one. Friend, do you believe in Jesus too? Do you ask Him to help your unbelief? Do you truly need Him? Then go to Him in prayer this morning and ask Him to help your unbelief or problem. The unnamed man cried in desperation, shedding tears. He was honest and earnest. You too must seek the Lord today and He will help your unbelief
Challenge: Faith honors God and God honors faith. Prayer: Lord, I believe. Please remove every trace of doubt from my

walk with you today.

182

27th June

MONEY POWER
But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. (Acts 8:20).

Simon, the sorcerer met his match the other day. He knew his way around. He was invited to the crusade in Samaria and later joined the company of the saints. So far, so good! Simon started having problems when he wanted to be the big man in church as he used to be in the world of magic. He learnt the Christian jargon alright but how does he get the power? That problem was to be solved with the coming of Peter, the Apostle. Peter was praying for people and they were getting lled with the power of God. Simon wanted this. But he didnt want to queue, wait or pray. He wanted the power and wanted it right now. Hey, Bro what if I give you some cash and you give me my own share of the power? That was when Peter replied him with the verse quoted above that his money would perish with him! You too must learn like Simon that money isnt everything! The gift of God cannot be purchased with money but with prayers! Yes, money is not everything. God still wants you to sow before you reap, plant before you harvest, and read before you pass examinations. He wants you to sweat before you rest and work before you achieve. Remember, money is not everything!
Challenge: Money power is limited power, prayer power is limitless

power.

Prayer: Help me O Lord to seek You above money or anything else as I go out today.

183

28th June

TERTULLUS, THE ORATOR

And after five days Ananias the high priest descended with the elders, and with a certain orator named Tertullus, who informed the governor against Paul. (Acts 24:1)

If your school has a debate competition with a rival school, who will you want in your debate team? Will you just pick anyone you like or will you pick students who have the ability to talk persuasively? Obviously you will pick students that can talk and argue very well. Truth is, not all of us know how to talk well. Yet the ability to talk is a good thing to develop in young people because every one of us can become better in learning talking skills. In the verse mentioned above, the Jews wanted to present their case against Paul to the governor. For this, they went to look for Tertullus, a known orator to present the matter for them. Ability to communicate well is very important and should be developed by everyone. You think you cannot talk well? You can. It is a wellknown fact that young people have the ability to learn more foreign languages than adults. Similarly, you can be the one to represent your school in debate competitions if you will improve yourself by doing the following: Watch people who speak well and learn how they pronounce words. Listen to the news on the mass media very often. Develop your vocabulary. Keep a record of new words you come across. Write the meaning and pronunciation of the words. Practice how to speak by speaking correctly. Seize every opportunity you have to talk before an audience whether in church or at school. Join your schools Literary and Debating Society or something similar. Pray and ask God to help you to improve on your ability to communicate better with people.
Challenge: When you speak well, you will live well. Prayer: Touch my tongue and make me speak with wisdom and grace today. 184

29th June

MOVING TO THE NEXT LEVEL

And King Solomon passed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom. (2 Chronicles 9:22)

The reign of Solomon as King in Israel took governance, wisdom and wealth to a higher realm. Kings had riches before him but Solomon surpassed them all. David, his father who reigned before him was wise, but Solomon was wiser. He combined earthly success with unusual wisdom and thus took royalty to a level better than before. He made royalty better than he met it. Just like Solomon, you too must be better than your predecessors. As noted by a poet: The Best is yet to be!

The best car hasn't been developed. The nal cure hasn't been discovered. The safest plane hasn't been produced. The best song hasn't been written. The best product is not on the market. The best plant hasn't been grown. The best sales presentation has not been perfected. The best class hasn't been taught. The best method hasn't been found. The best dress hasnt been stitched. The best meal hasnt been cooked. The best novel hasnt been written The best..is yet to be.

Wherever you nd yourself today, remember that your own contributions can bring about a vast improvement in the existing situation because you too can do better by taking things around you to the next level.
Challenge: A man of success achieves his goal but a man of substance changes his world. Prayer: Make me a person of inuence O Lord so I will make my world a better place today. 185

30th June

FAIR-WEATHER FRIENDS
Wealth maketh many friends; but the poor is separated from his neighbor. (Proverbs 19:4).

A fair-weather friend is someone who only wants to be your friend when you are successful. He is not a steadfast companion. He can only be relied upon when things are going well. Anytime things turn bad, fair-weather friends will disappear. Boys and girls who spend a lot of money in and out of school will have many fair-weather friends. As the book of Proverbs says, Wealth maketh many friends. Wealth is like exposed sugar that is bound to attract ants. You must be careful of insincere friends. An adage says: False friends are worse than open enemies. Absalom was wealthy and he had many friends who advised him to do away with his father David. They led him to his death and then disappeared. Remember also the story that Jesus told about the prodigal son. Wealth gave him many friends. But when the money nished, his fair-weather friends vanished. In our world today there are many fair-weather comrades. It is your duty to relate with them with wisdom so you will not lose out in the end. How can one deal with fair-weather friends? Easy! First, do everything in moderation. Dont live big. Fair-weather pals are always attracted by a lavish lifestyle. Let people love you for who you are and not for how much money you have to give them. Secondly, live right. Honor God and be an aggressive Christian and fake people will draw back from following you. Remember, you dont need them anyway. Thirdly, learn to save money. If you are lucky to have parents who are generous with the allowance they give you, learn not to give everything out to your friends. Friends come and go but your nancial wisdom is yours. Money alone will not attract good friends into your life. So, play safe.
Challenge: When I had money everyone called me brother. Polish Proverb Prayer: Heavenly Father, please help me to be wise and careful in the way I relate with people today. 186

1st July

PRICELESS GIFT
But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money. (Acts 8:20).

Will you like to put up your eyes for sale? Someone might need a brain or even a heart; will you like to sell any of those when you need cash? Yes? No! You wouldnt. Your body is such a priceless gift you would not swap it for cash. The verse above tells us of the misunderstanding of Simon and his correction by Peter. Simon assumed that money would buy everything. He thought he could use money to buy the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Peter made him realize that the gift of the Holy Spirit could not be bought. It is a priceless gift. It is too valuable for money to purchase. Just like some other blessings that God has given us. For instance, you cannot buy anointing nor salvation. You cannot buy divine healing neither can you buy divine favor or grace. The gifts of God in your life are incalculable. The opportunities that God will bring your way today are inestimable. Your parents, your teachers and all the godly people that God will bring your way today are precious. Take very good care of them all. They are your priceless presents and nothing can replace them if lost.
Challenge: I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Prayer: Thank You Lord for giving me so many priceless gifts. I am very grateful.

187

2nd July

WHY DO YOU WANT TO KNOW?

And they answered and said unto Jesus, We cannot tell. And Jesus answering saith unto them, Neither do I tell you by what authority I do these things. (Mark 11:33).

The Jews wanted to know where Jesus got His authority to minister. He did not want to answer their question so He also asked them a question that they could not answer. That was when he made the remark above. He did not tell them everything that they wanted to know. You too must know that you are not bound to answer every question people ask you. Some people ask stupid questions that one need not answer. Questions like Who made God? Why are you a boy? etc. Some questions are also inappropriate. If you are a girl and a boy is asking you intimate questions suggestive of immorality, you should pay no attention to them. Same goes for a boy. You should not answer questions from members of the opposite sex who want to have information about your views or dispositions on issues that you know your parents or teachers will frown at. Jesus used a good method in putting o his critics. You too can do the same. When someone asks you a question you don't want to answer, smile and ask, "Why do you want to know?"
Challenge: In the multitude of words sin is not lacking, But he who

restrains his lips is wiseProv. 10:19

Prayer: Lord, please give me wisdom today to know how to answer people with wisdom.

188

3rd July

READ MORE BOOKS

Now the acts of David the king, first and last, behold, they are written in the book of Samuel the seer, and in the book of Nathan the prophet, and in the book of Gad the seer. (1 Chronicles 29:29)

If you want to know about the reign of King David, read the books written by Prophet Samuel. If you want to know more, then read the commentaries on David. Authors write about the subject from dierent perspectives. So it is possible to get a lot of information about one man from a book. But the more books you read on that topic, the more information you will possess. Think of the four gospels written about Jesus. Matthew wrote for a Jewish audience. Mark wrote for a gentile audience and Luke also wrote about Jesus to make Theophilus, a gentile, know more about Jesus. John wrote the gospel to prove that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and the Savior of the world. What do we learn from all these? It is simple. The more books you read, the better informed you become. No matter the subject, no matter the topic, ability to read widely will always put you at an advantage over others who limit their reading to just one source or book. Increase your knowledge and academic value: read more books.
Challenge: Read more to become better informed. Prayer: Help me Lord to read more today than I did yesterday.

189

4th July

DONT GIVE UP
But we are not of them who draw back unto perdition; but of them that believe to the saving of the soul (Hebrews 10:39).

Dear friend: I am so happy to write you this morning because I am a young person like you. I want to encourage you not to stop doing the good things you have been doing. Do not quit your educational pursuit nor give up the dream of becoming the person you know God wants you to be. As a young person myself, I understand the challenges we face when things get dicult. You know, life sometimes is like a long race. It is so tempting to give up when the journey gets rough and the body really wants rest. But experience has taught you and me that if you quit the race others might not. So when you drop o someone else goes ahead and wins the race. That is why you should not surrender. The winner too must have been tempted to quit but he did not and as a result he eventually won. By the grace of God I have made up my mind. I will not abandon my studies. I will not quit doing well. I will not stop trusting God and I will not quit being diligent in my duties and responsibilities. I hope you will take the same decision. Thanks for reading this and have a nice day. Your friend, a non-quitter.
Challenge: The world will always give you the opportunity to quit Clint Brown Prayer: Help me Lord to successfully do all that I have to do today in Jesus name.

190

5th July

SIN KILLS
when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death. (James 1:15)

Sin looks so attractive in the beginning. But in the end it always leads to death if one does not stop. Consider this story: According to tradition, this is how an Eskimo hunter kills a wolf. First, the Eskimo coats his knife with animal blood and allows it to freeze. He then adds layer after layer of blood until the blade is completely concealed by the frozen blood. Next, the hunter xes his knife in the ground with the blade up. When a wolf follows his sensitive nose to the source of the scent of blood and discovers the bait, he licks it, tasting the fresh frozen blood. He begins to lick faster, more and more vigorously, lapping the blade until the keen edge is bare. Feverishly now, harder and harder, the wolf licks the blade in the cold Arctic night. His craving for blood becomes so great that the wolf does not notice the razor-sharp sting of the naked blade on his own tongue, nor does he recognize the instant when his insatiable thirst is being satised by his own warm blood. His carnivorous appetite continues to crave more until in the morning light, the wolf is found dead on the snow! Wayne Rice Many begin using drugs, drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, or engaging in immoral behavior for the same reasons that the wolf begins licking the knife blade. It seems safe and delicious at rst, but it doesn't satisfy. More and more is desired, leading to a crisis or death. Remember sin kills!
Challenge: The wages of sin is death. Prayer: Lord, please deliver me from the power of sin.

191

6th July

WHOM ART THOU LIKE?

Son of man, speak unto Pharaoh king of Egypt, and to his multitude; Whom art thou like in thy greatness? (Ezekiel 31:2).

You certainly resemble someone. Your behavior, your manner of speaking, your style of dressing, all follow someones example. Who is that person? Who is your role model? A certain man had two children, a boy and a girl. He was also bald. One night the man and his wife went out to dinner. They told the mothers younger brother living with them to take care of the children. While they were gone, the uncle got interested in a television program and wasn't watching the children very carefully. The little boy Peter took his father's electric shaver and shaved a big road down the middle of his head. When the father came home, he was furious. He said, "Peter! I told you never to play with my shaver. Now you are going to get a spanking that you will never forget!" He was just about to spank the boy when Peter looked up at him and said, "Wait until you see my sister!" The couple went into the next room and were horried to see their little four-year-old daughter with all of the hair shaved o of her head. She looked like a little skinned rabbit. By this time, the man was really furious. He grabbed Peter and said, "Now you are really going to get it." Just as he lifted his hand and started to bring it down, Peter looked up at him with tears in his eyes and said, "But Daddy! WE WERE JUST TRYING TO LOOK LIKE YOU!" That night nobody was spanked. Instead, Peter got an explanation and a hug. So whom art thou like? Your heavenly Father or?
Challenge: People do what people see. They forget your words but follow your example John Maxwell. Prayer: Dear Father, please help me follow examples of Godly people in all I do today.

192

7th July

SECOND GENERATION CHRISTIAN

Behold, every one that useth proverbs shall use this proverb against thee, saying, As is the mother, so is her daughter. (Ezekiel 16:44)

Dear reader, it is possible that your parents are born again children of God. You are the focus of our meditation this morning. Although the passage was actually criticizing the city of Jerusalem as not dierent from when it was controlled by the Canaanites, yet we can see lessons to learn. If a bad boy looks like a bad father why cant a good child like you get inspiration from your father? Think of the various advantages that you have as a second generation Christian. One, your parents will not persecute you on account of your faith. Parental persecution is the reason why many students backslide. Two, you have been taught the word of God, possibly from your childhood. You are familiar with many Bible characters like Moses and David and Esther. You are in a better position to talk about the scripture than many others. Three, you have parents who will help you to be properly educated. No matter the level of education of your parents, they are interested in you going to school and acquiring sound education. And four, you have a good example to copy. As practicing Christians your parents are living such a life we can safely encourage you to emulate. As you go out today, we pray that the Lord will help you to lay a good foundation for the generation after you too.
Challenge: For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required Prayer: Thank You Father for giving me godly examples all around to follow.

193

8th July

DELIVER THYSELF
Deliver thyself, O Zion, that dwellest with the daughter of Babylon. (Zechariah 2:7)

It is said that no one is as blind as he who will not see. Zion is the city of David. Daughters of Zion are the people of God. They are the redeemed ones. Call them born again Christians and you are spot on. They are the Christians, the salt of the earth and light of the world. But there is a problem. The problem as you can see in the verse above is that the daughter of Zion is now living with the daughter of Babylon (which represents the world). Sadly, the world determines how the daughter of Zion dresses and behaves. She has lost her identity in the world and the challenge from the Lord today is for this child of God to retrace her steps. Deliver yourself from worldliness. This is a great evil that has done a lot of havoc in the life of many believers. Next, deliver yourself from immorality. The world doesnt see anything wrong in premarital sex, pornography or aberrant boyfriend/girlfriend practices. You must also deliver yourself from corruption. This is the norm in many circles where students take part in examination malpractices and other negative practices. You must have a rethink today, and God will make your life a blessing.
Challenge: He that lies down with dogs shall rise up with eas.

today.

Prayer: Lord, please help me to keep company with Godly people

194

9th July

DEADLY DANCER
But when Herod's birthday was kept, the daughter of Herodias danced before them, and pleased Herod. (Matthew 14:6 )

Who do you want to have around you on your graduation or matriculation day? Herod celebrated his birthday in the company of Herodias and Salome. The event set in motion the beheading of John the Baptist to appease the bloodthirsty mother and daughter. The dance brought about the dreadful death. Salome was the dancer at Herods ceremony. She danced so well that Herod was completely carried away. He promised to give her anything she asked for and that was when the tragedy struck. Salome, after consultation with her mother, asked for the head of John the Baptist. On Herods big day, he killed a prophet because of his guests! What are you also planning to do on your next occasion? Who are you inviting? Who is coming to dance? What is your purpose on the day? Must you keep the day? Will everything that you are going to do on that day glorify God? Your big day should rather be like that of the King in Matthew 22 who had a ceremony for his sons marriage. What a beautiful time it was sharing with the poor and homeless. It is my prayer that your next occasion will not be an opportunity for destroying souls but one for saving the lost.
Challenge: Evil communication corrupts good manners. Prayer: Help me Lord to have Gods people around me all the time.

195

10th July

THE THREE RS
Even as Sara obeyed Abraham, calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long as ye do well, and are not afraid with any amazement. (1 Peter 3:6)

Sarah was a very obedient woman. She loved the Lord Jehovah and respected her husband so much that she called him lord. She did that in Gen 18:12. You too must learn to show reverence. First, you must respect your God. Another word for this respect is fear. Having therefore these promises, dearly beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all lthiness of the esh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God. (2 Corinthians 7:1). You too must revere God. Secondly, you must respect your family. Sarah respected her husband and you must respect your parents and relatives. When you respect your parents then you will do good things that will make them happy and proud of you. It is also very important to show respect to members of your spiritual family too. Thirdly, respect yourself. Self-respect is the best form of respect. If you do not respect yourself, nobody else will. When you respect yourself you will not do things that will put you to shame.
Challenge: When about to commit a base deed, respect thyself, though there is no witness Ausonius. Prayer: Please help me Lord to respect you, my family and myself

today

196

11th July

FAVORED CHILDREN
And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favor both with the LORD, and also with men. (1 Samuel 2:26)

Many favored children abound in the Bible. You know about Samuel and about Samson. Youve read about Joseph and about Jesus but has it ever occurred to you that you are also an extraordinary child? Here is the story of Kim Ung-Yong: This Korean super-genius was born in 1962 and might just be the smartest guy alive today (he's recognized by the Guinness Book of World Records as having the highest IQ on the planet). By the age of four he was already able to read in Japanese, Korean, German, and English. At his fth birthday, he solved complicated dierential and integral calculus problems. Later, on Japanese television, he demonstrated his prociency in Chinese, Spanish, Vietnamese, Tagalog, German, English, Japanese, and Korean languages. Kim was listed in the Guinness Book of World Records under "Highest IQ"; the book estimated the boy's score at over 210. Kim was a guest student of physics at Hanyang University from the age of 3 until he was 6. At the age of 7 he was invited to America by NASA. He nished his university studies, eventually getting a Ph.D. in physics at Colorado State University before he was 15. In 1974, during his university studies, he began his research work at NASA and continued this work until his return to Korea in 1978 where he decided to switch from physics to civil engineering and eventually received a doctorate in that eld. Kim was oered the chance to study at the most prestigious universities in Korea, but instead chose to attend a provincial university. As at 2007 he also served as an adjunct faculty at Chungbuk National University. You are also an amazing child. We may not have heard about you now but by the grace of God, the world will soon know about you for good in Jesus name.
Challenge: You are bigger than you think you are. Prayer: Reveal every hidden blessing in my life today O Lord. 197

12th July

THINK ON THESE THINGS

Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things. (Philippians 4:8)

Let us heed the admonition of Paul and truly think on THESE THINGS. What is God saying to me here? What lessons am I learning? Are there things I must avoid? Are there instructions I must obey? Are there examples to copy? Yes, think on THESE THINGS! After these things the word of the LORD came unto Abram in a vision, saying, Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward (Gen 15:1). And it came to pass after these things, that God did tempt Abraham, and said unto him, Abraham: and he said, Behold, here I am (Gen 22:1). And it came to pass after these things, that his master's wife cast her eyes upon Joseph; and she said, Lie with me (Gen 39:7). And if a soul sin, and commit any of these things which are forbidden to be done by the commandments of the LORD; though he wist it not, yet is he guilty, and shall bear his iniquity (Lev 5:17). And I will bring the blind by a way that they knew not; I will lead them in paths that they have not known: I will make darkness light before them, and crooked things straight. These things will I do unto them, and not forsake them (Isa 42:16) For all these things do the nations of the world seek after: and your Father knoweth that ye have need of these things (Luke 12:30). But rather seek ye the kingdom of God; and all these things shall be added unto you (Luke 12:31).
Challenge: As a man thinketh, so is he! Prayer: Lord please help me to think on good things today. 198

13th July

SIMPLE GOOD HABITS

In all things shewing thyself a pattern of good works: in doctrine shewing uncorruptness, gravity, sincerity. (Titus 2:7)

When asking for something, say "Please." When receiving something, say "Thank you." Do not interrupt grown-ups who are speaking with each other unless there is an emergency. They will notice you and respond when they are nished talking. If you do need to get somebody's attention right away, the phrase "excuse me" is the most polite way for you to enter the conversation. Never comment on another persons physical characteristics unless, of course, it's complimentary, which is always welcome. Knock on closed doors and wait to see if there's a response before entering. When you make a phone call, introduce yourself rst and then ask if you can speak with the person you are calling. No matter the provocation or challenge, never use foul language as a child of God. Speak kindly, gently and speak loud enough for people to hear you. Do not make fun of anyone for any reason. Teasing shows others you are weak, and ganging up against someone else is cruel. If you bump into someone, immediately say "I am sorry." Cover your mouth when you cough, sneeze or yawn and don't pick your nose in public. As you walk through a door, look to see if you can hold it open for someone else. If you come across a parent, a teacher, or a neighbor working on something, ask if you can help. If they say "yes," do so you may learn something new. When someone helps you, say "thank you." That person will likely want to help you again.
Challenge: A burning candle is not dying but fullling the reason for its existence.

glory.

Prayer: Father, please help me to do all I have to do today for Your 199

14th July

FAITHFUL MOSES
My servant Moses is not so, who is faithful in all mine house. (Numbers 12:7)

The verse above is what God said about Moses when Miriam and Aaron said bad things against him because of his wife. God called Moses a faithful man. Thank God Moses was faithful, are you? Faithful people are: F - Fearless. Faithful people are fearless because they fear God and there is no reason for them to fear man. A - Active. Moses was always active whether in Egypt before he ran away or in Midian where God found him. He was not lazy. Faithful people are active people, not passive. I - Industrious. A faithful person is hardworking, even when nobody is there to watch over or assist him. T - Thankful. Do you know that Moses was a songwriter? He wrote and sang a song of thanksgiving to God for the miracle at the Red Sea (read Exodus 15). Faithful people are thankful people who see the goodness of God all around them. F - Friendly. Although Moses was a great leader, yet he had many friends. He was a team player who related well with Aaron, Joshua, Hur and other people working around him. To be faithful you too must be pleasant and sociable. U - Upright. Faithful Moses was upright in all his ways. He would not cut corners in anything, cheat in examinations or take other peoples things without permission. L - Loving. We live in a world of diverse tribes and races. And some do not like that and so spread hate and bitterness all around. But faithful people are dierent. They love the Lord and they also love other people. They are kind and gracious and recognize the grace of God in the lives of other people who may not be of their tribe, church or school.
Challenge: Are you known by the promises you dont keep? John Prayer: Please help me Lord to be faithful to You in all things 200

Mason. today.

15th July

HANDS
For all this I considered in my heart even to declare all this, that the righteous, and the wise, and their works, are in the hand of God: no man knoweth either love or hatred by all that is before them. (Ecclesiastes 9:1)

A rod in my hands will keep away a wild animal.

A rod in Moses' hands will part the mighty sea. It depends on whose hands it's in.

A sling shot in my hands is just a kid's toy.

A sling shot in David's hand was a mighty weapon. It depends on whose hands it's in.

Two sh and ve loaves of bread in God's hands will feed

thousands. It depends on whose hands it's in.

Nails in my hands might produce a birdhouse.

Nails in Jesus Christ's hands produced salvation for the entire world. It depends on whose hands it's in.

As you see now.. it depends on whose hands it's in. So, put your concerns, your worries, your fears, your hopes,
your dreams, your families and your relationships in God's hands. Because.. It depends on whose hands it's in. It depends on whose hands it's in!!

This message is now in your hands. What will YOU do with it?
Author Unknown

Challenge: Hes got the whole world in His hands. Prayer: My life is in Your hands O Lord. Make me what You want me to be.

201

16th July

GOD IS FAITHFUL
God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord. (1 Corinthians 1:9).

We all need to remind ourselves of this simple truth: God is faithful. Say it everywhere. Let the blind know it and let the deaf understand this good news that God is faithful. You as a person must recognize this truth everyday as you look at the predictability of the sun. Each day the sun rises, moves across the sky from east to west and eventually sets. It never fails in this God ordained assignment. That is what faithfulness is all about. It is about constancy and certainty. You may be sick right now and your entire body feels weak and worn. You prayed and even went to the hospital. The doctors diagnosed your sickness and prescribed some medicine to use. You have used all the drugs that the doctor prescribed but you are still sick. In your present condition you need to remember that God is still faithful. Yes, He is taking care of you otherwise things could probably have been worse! When you face any tough challenge, dicult examination or serious nancial problems remember the sun. Its predictability and dependability as it makes its journey across the sky should reassure your wondering heart that God is faithful. He will take good care of you. Yes, He will because He is faithful.
Challenge: Gods promises are like the stars, the darker the night, the brighter they shine.

Lord.

Prayer: Lord, I believe You are true and dependable. Thank You

202

17th July

FIRST OR LAST
But many that are first shall be last; and the last first. (Mark 10:31).

In his book, Gifted Hands, Ben Carson told the story of his life how he used to be the last person in his class academically. Things got to a head one day and his mother decided to deprive him of any opportunity to watch television for a week until he had nished reading two books from the library. Ben did not like this initially but he soon got used to it and within a short time, his academic performances improved greatly. Within a year Ben moved from the last position in class to the rst. That is the story of Ben Carson, what is your own story? Many students enter secondary schools with high hopes and good academic records. Unfortunately getting mixed up with gangs and imbibing other unhelpful ways often aects them negatively. Hence the rst in class sometimes becomes the last. Dear reader, you have a choice. You can choose to be like Ben Carson and move from the back to the front or be like Daniel in Babylon and move from the front to a higher level still.
Challenge: Look up and not down; look forward and not back; look out and not in; and lend a handHale. Prayer: Help me Lord to correct my ways today so that I can improve on my academic and spiritual performances.

203

18th July

AFRAID OF JESUS?
And they were in the way going up to Jerusalem; and Jesus went before them: and they were amazed; and as they followed, they were afraid. And he took again the twelve, and began to tell them what things should happen unto him. (Mark 10:32)

Why should anyone be afraid to follow Jesus? See the disciples in the passage above as they followed Jesus to Jerusalem. He went before and they followed. They saw how he moved. He did not hide anything from them about His life, His mission and His purpose. They followed him but with fear. The question is should we be afraid to follow Jesus? Jesus did no harm to anyone. There is no one that followed Him in vain. None ever regretted following Jesus. Even the big man Nicodemus eventually came out to support Jesus when it mattered most. A number of things could make young boys and girls afraid to follow Jesus. Let us summaries them as FEAR. Friends. Some of us do not want our friends to laugh at us and because of this we are afraid of following Jesus. Excuses. Have you noticed that you cannot follow Jesus and still keep doing the bad things you used to do? When we give excuses to retain our old habits, they stop us from following Jesus. Arrogance. That is another word for pride. Some boys and girls think that they are too handsome or beautiful to follow Jesus. They forget that they are really the ones who need Jesus. Religion. Are you surprised? Religious people are often enemies of the gospel of Jesus Christ. Beware of any religion that oers an alternative to Jesus. It is simply a fake religion and it will not allow you to follow Jesus.
Challenge: The only thing we have to fear is fear itself. F.D. Roosevelt. Prayer: Give me grace Lord so that I will not be afraid to follow you today. 204

19th July

THE GREAT CHANGE

But all that heard him were amazed, and said; Is not this he that destroyed them which called on this name in Jerusalem, and came hither for that intent, that he might bring them bound unto the chief priests? (Acts 9:21)

No one could deny a change had taken place in the life of Paul. Everybody knew him as a bad one. He simply did not like Christians. All he needed to get him mocking and hurting you was for you to let him know you are a Christian. In fact, when Stephen was martyred, Paul was supportive. But then if you read the verses before the one above you will see that Paul changed. How? He was on his way to Damascus to hurt the Christians when he met the Lord Jesus. The encounter completely changed the life of Paul. Instead of continuing to persecute Christians, he became one of them and even started to preach to other people about Jesus. Three things will summaries the life of Paul for us here. 1. Encounter with Jesus: Everything started with the meeting Paul had with Jesus. When you also meet the Lord, He will change your life and make you a new person. 2. Exemplary conduct: When Paul surrendered his life to Jesus, he really meant it. He did not hide his new faith. From then he started doing everything right. Everybody noticed the change. Paul has become a new man. When you also meet the Lord, everything about your life will change. 3. Eective witness: Paul preached about Jesus. Do you? He was a living witness of the power of the gospel. He also took it upon himself to tell everyone about the savior. You too must be a witness. That is the way to show a great change has taken place in your life.
Challenge: Change, and everything else in your life will change.

you.

Prayer: Lord, thank You for giving me the opportunity to know

205

20th July

THE PARABLE OF THE TEA BAG

Behold, I have refined thee, but not with silver; I have chosen thee in the furnace of affliction. (Isaiah 48:10)

Christians are like tea bags. You have to dip them in hot water before you can enjoy their taste. The best of Gods resources in you will not be manifest until you are immersed in hot water! Joseph was a teabag. The experience with Potiphars wife and life in prison brought out the best in him. Daniel was a teabag. The lions den was the hot water that brought out the best in him. It was the same experience with the three Hebrew boysShadrack, Meshack and Abednego. When they refused to bow to the idol Nebuchadnezzar erected they were thrown inside a re. They were the tea bags and the re was the hot water. We know about them today because they survived the re and lived to tell the story of faith and absolute condence in God. The early Christians were dipped in hot water. They were persecuted for their faith and some of them were killed; but the hotter the water the tastier the avor that their tea bags were releasing. They were sweet in victory and courageous in trials. They praised God in prisons and bore deprivations with joy. As you go out today, be like the tea bag. Let the most dicult challenge you will meet today bring out the best of God in you. Go and win the world for Jesus.
Challenge: You cannot dream yourself into a character; you must hammer and forge yourself into one.Froude. Prayer: Uphold me Lord with your mighty power. Help me to reect Your glory in my life in Jesus name.

206

21st July

WHO IS GOD?
Out of the mouth of babes and sucklings hast thou ordained strength because of thine enemies, that thou mightest still the enemy and the avenger. (Psalms 8:2)

Read this inspiring story about an 8-year-old boy who tried to explain who God is. Danny Dutton, age 8, from Chula Vista, California, was given a third grade homework to "Explain God". Here is his write up: "One of God's main jobs is making people. He makes them to replace the ones that die so there will be enough people to take care of things on earth. He doesn't make grown-ups, just babies. I think because they are smaller and easier to make. That way He doesn't have to take up His valuable time teaching them to talk and walk. He can just leave that to mothers and fathers. "God's second most important job is listening to prayers. An awful lot of this goes on, since some people, like preachers and things, pray at times besides bedtime. God doesn't have time to listen to the radio or TV because of this. Because He hears everything, there must be a terrible lot of noise in His ears, unless He has thought of a way to turn it o. "God sees everything and hears everything and is everywhere which keeps Him pretty busy. So you shouldn't go wasting His time by going over your mom and dad's head asking for something they said you couldn't have." Jesus is God's Son. He walked on water, performed miracles and taught people who didn't want to learn about God. When they got tired of His activities, they crucied Him. But He was good and kind, like His Father and He told His Father that they didn't know what they were doing and to forgive them and God said O.K. "His Dad (God) appreciated everything that He had done and all His hard work on earth so He told Him He didn't have to go out on the road anymore. He could stay in heaven. So He did. Just imagine. An eight-year-old can explain who God is. Can you?
Challenge: Know God, know peace. No God, no peace.

today.

Prayer: Lord help me to know You better and tell others about You 207

22nd July

THE ART OF MAKING FRIENDS

A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. (Proverbs 18:24)

Certainly we all need friends. But not all of us have good friends. Well, you need to know how to make new friends and how to become a dependable friend to someone too. So how does one go about making friends? Well, these bits of advice will give you ideas on how to make new friends. Keep these in mind as you go out and soon you will have lots of new TRUE friends. 1. Dont worry about knowing people; just project yourself positively. 2. Choose your friends prayerfully. 3. Friends are those who speak to you when others dont. 4. It is not the number of friends that matter but the quality of them. 5. The way to have friends is to be willing to lose some arguments. 6. Always do to your friend what you would want him or her to do to you. 7. A friend is a person who corrects your faults in love. 8. You will never have a friend if you must have one without faults. 9. You can make more friends by sharing testimonies about Christs love and how he saved you from your sins. 10. A real friend is a person whose lifestyle draws you closer to God. 11. A GOOD FRIEND IS A TREASURE! Make sure you are one.
Challenge: A friend in need is a friend indeed. Prayer: Help me Lord to be a good friend to someone today.

208

23rd July

ALL THINGS ARE POSSIBLE

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

Are you facing dicult situations in your life? Are you a physically challenged person? Do you nd it dicult to read and study? Consider the challenging story of Jessica Cox a lady who was born without hands. Here is her story in her own words: Hello, my name is Jessica Cox. I am an international keynote speaker. Unlike most people, I was born without arms. I live a normal life using my feet the way other people use their hands. I drive with my feet. I was the rst person without arms to get a black-belt in the American Tae Kwon-Do Association and the rst pilot in aviation history to y with her feet. I am convinced that how we react has a greater impact on our lives than our physical constraints. Doctors do not know why she was born without arms, but she decided early on that she didn't want to use prosthetic devices. Jessica, now 25, lives in Tucson Arizona and is a motivational speaker who uses her feet to send text messages, drive a car and even play the piano. Next time you are faced with a seemingly impossible situation, remember Jessica Cox. She is a living example of what the grace of God can accomplish in the life of focused individuals. Life is not about making excuses. Life is about doing the best you can in spite of dicult situations.
Challenge: I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me. Prayer: Lord please help me to do all things I should do today.

209

24th July

HEALTHY PROMISE
And the LORD will take away from thee all sickness, and will put none of the evil diseases of Egypt, which thou knowest, upon thee; but will lay them upon all them that hate thee. (Deuteronomy 7:15)

Can we trust God? Yes. Can we rely on His promises? Yes. Can we believe Him to take away all sicknesses from us as promised in the verse above? Yes. He did it for Israel in the wilderness as the scripture says He brought them forth also with silver and gold: and there was not one feeble person among their tribes. Ps 105:37. He kept more than one million Israelites healthy for 40 years in the wilderness. No sickness came on them. We can trust Him to do the same for us today. The promises of the Lord in the scriptures are like checks. They are of no use until you take them to the bank. If someone gives you a check and you decide to keep it in the house that check will remain what it is a piece of paper. But if you take it to the bank, then the paper turns to money and you can begin to enjoy it. Today remember that God has promised to take care of your health, to heal you if you are sick and to keep you from sickness. That is a healthy promise. God who makes the promise has enough power to make it come to pass. How do you cash the check? Pray. Prayer is the means through which we bring the promises of the Lord to come to pass in our lives. Just ask, and you will receive
Challenges: Prayer is the soul getting into contact with the God in whom it believes.Fosdick. Prayer: Thank You Lord for your precious promises. I believe them.

210

25th July

EFFECTIVE STUDY TIPS

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

As a student, you must write examinations before you move to the next class. So how do you prepare well for the exams? Here are seven ways to make sure you are physically, emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually ready to take those examinations. 1. Pray: Pray before any study session. God is in interested every aspect of your life. He wants you to succeed, and prayer can make you more condent as you write your tests.

2. Begin Today: It can be excusable to put o studying until the last

minute. Happenings around you can tempt you to procrastinate. Exams can be hectic and overwhelming, so begin your preparation now. You know tests are ahead of you, so plan your study time wisely. Try and write down a study schedule.

3. Study with others: Having a study group can be very helpful. Members of your study group can take turns quizzing each other. You can provide insight into certain topics for one another. However, be sure your group is actually focused on studying. 4. Eat well: Young people sometimes indulge in eating junk foods. However, these types of food are not very helpful to your study. Eat healthy "brain foods" high in protein like nuts, fruits, and sh. 5. Sleep well: Sleep complements learning activities. A good sleep can help relieve stress. Denying yourself sleep is detrimental to your health and can end up clouding your judgment or increase your mistakes, especially during exams. Get at least 6 to 8 hours of sleep a night, including the night before your exam. 6. Practice past questions: Look for past questions on the subject you are studying. Then practice answering them. Write your own exam. Examiners often repeat their questions. Practicing with past questions will help you a lot and prepare you for the real thing.
Challenge: Proper preparation prevents poor performance.

today.

Prayer: Please help me Lord to prepare well for my examinations

211

26th July

YOU TOO CAN SING!

And at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. (Acts 16:25)

No one expected Paul and Silas to be singing at this time of the night. They actually had a rough day. They were beaten and humiliated by the soldiers. They were later locked up and no one attended to their wounds. Paul and Silas instead of being unhappy chose to sing, and God identied with their suering and opened the prison doors for them. You too can sing. Singing is better than sulking. You can choose to praise God in your most dicult situation and let him ght your battles for you like he did for King Jehoshaphat. When we sing we confess our dependence on God, and condence in His ability to solve our problems. This is how a song writer explains it: Never be sad or desponding If you have faith to believe; Grace, for the duties before thee, Ask of thy God and receive. Never give up. Never give up Never give up to thy sorrows, Jesus will bid them depart; Trust in the Lord, Trust in the Lord Sing when your trials are greatest, Trust in the Lord and take heart.
Challenge: Praise is the rehearsal of our eternal song.Spurgeon. Prayer: Lord I praise You for giving me life and ghting my battles for me. Thank You, Lord.

212

27th July

GOOD WORDS
And the LORD answered the angel that talked with me with good words and comfortable words. (Zechariah 1:13)

Words are so important in our lives. The General Superintendent of the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, Pastor W.F. Kumuyi once shared a story of how a teacher in his secondary school days called him a mathematician and how those words stayed glued to his heart. From a position of weakness, the words lifted him to the top of his class and he graduated with a rst class degree in Mathematics from the University of Ibadan. Words are so powerful. Use good words while talking to people. The Bible says Heaviness in the heart of man maketh it stoop: but a good word maketh it glad. (Pro 12:25) How then can you use good words? Remember to: G Give God the glory in anything you say to people. O Only speak if you must. Let your words be few as you dont have to say everything you know to everyone you meet. O Obey the principles of Col 4:6 (Let your speech be alway with grace, seasoned with salt, that ye may know how ye ought to answer every man.) D Discuss things with God rst before you discuss them with man. W Work hard on your studies today as idle mind is the devils workshop. O Organize yourself. The better organized you are the less you need to say to people. R Remember that the words you have not spoken cannot put you in trouble.
D Do more today than you did yesterday and you will speak less today than you did yesterday? S Say what you want to say simply, sincerely and soothingly. Challenge: Birds are entangled by their feet and men by their tongues.Thomas Fuller

today

Prayer: Dear Lord, please help me to say what I have to say well 213

28th July

FROM ZERO TO HERO

And Jabez was more honorable than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, Because I bare him with sorrow. And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested. (1 Chronicles 4:9-10)

The beginning of Jabezs journey was rough, but his unique faith in the Almighty God took him from a hopeless situation into glorious honor. His name was associated with sorrow and the shame was enough for him to submit to fate. But he changed that. He moved from zero to become a hero. How about you? What is in your past? Your past might have been so lamentable and sorrowful. There is a way out and there is hope for you. Are people calling you names? Dont listen to them. Jabez didnt. Like him, you must not give up. Be courageous. It was equally tough for some people before you, but today we read about their success stories. Your story will come next. However, it is possible that you might be holding some people responsible for the challenges that you have been facing. Actually you need to watch your response and attitude to the present situation. You must forgive such people so that you can have answers to your prayers. Allow God to deal with them so they can see His great work in your life
Challenge: It is not over until it is over. Prayer: God of heaven help me to forget my past in order to be what you want me to be in future.

214

29th July

CARELESS LIVING
For this cause God gave them up unto vile affections: for even their women did change the natural use into that which is against nature. (Romans 1:26)

There are many young people today who live shamefully for the devil. They commit sins daily and they serve Satan thinking that they are enjoying life. Alas, they are victims of satanic deception and their end will be sad and shameful indeed unless they repent for there is forgiveness in Christ. That is not all. When people refuse to do the will of God and obey His command, God gives up on such people. Dear reader, where do you stand? Have you sold yourself to a life of sin? Remember that immorality destroyed Sodom and Gomorrah. And it will still destroy anyone who indulges in lust and other vices today. God is consistently angry with the sinner. And the right thing to do is to repent and renounce such sinful lifestyle. If you are born again we thank God for you. But is your life glorifying God daily? Are you a positive inuence in your home and school? You cant aord to keep your mouth shut if you are a real child of God. You are supposed to be a witness for Jesus. The Lord is depending on you to reach to the lost.
Challenge: Be a witness for the Lord always. Prayer: God give me more grace to live a purposeful life for You.

215

30th July

PRAYING THROUGH
And he said, Oh let not the Lord be angry, and I will speak yet but this once: Peradventure ten shall be found there. And he said, I will not destroy it for ten's sake. (Genesis 18:32)

It is one thing to pray and it is another thing to pray through. Many youths are in a hurry to pray but unfortunately, they never take the time to pray through. This is a major reason why many lead a defeated life and fail to enjoy the privilege of answered prayers. It is important that you pray through because there are many decisions you need to make in life. The more prayerful you are the more likely you will take the right decisions. As you pray, learn to hear from God. If Abraham had prayed more maybe he could have made God to cancel the judgment that came on Sodom and Gomorrah. If he had persisted and narrowed his request to one righteous person God might have spared Sodom and Gomorrah because of Lot. But he stopped praying. When you pray you should also pray for backsliders and sinners. Dont say I have done enough. You can still do more in praying earnestly. Please, pray and pray thorough.
Challenge: You have prayed today; how patient and thorough were you while praying. Prayer: Lord, give me grace to pray and pray through.

216

31st July

HOPE OF GLORY
To whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory. (Colossians 1:27)

How can one explain the story of Christs incarnation or how He became man and lived in our midst? It is simply amazing. There is no doubt that you have heard about Jesus before and you might have even believed the virgin birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. The joy that radiates in our hearts as believers today is that Christ dwells in us. His death and resurrection gives us undying hope. This hope transforms our lives because a seed produces its kind, therefore, our lives should resemble that of Christ. Our words, ways and walk every day should reect our sojourn here on earth as pilgrims. As boys and girls transformed by His glorious hope, we stand as light in dark places of this world. Our mission is to bring others to Christ. So, are you a shining light in your school?
Challenge: Decide to break loose from all unprotable habits in Prayer: Lord, please help me keep this glorious hope till the end.

your life.

217

1st August

DONT STRAY, PRAY

If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. (John 15:7)

Challenges of life come to all, youths inclusive. Failed dreams, delayed expectations, unexpected loses, sometimes hit us with such suddenness that we wonder if God still cares! So when your turn comes to be hit by a storm, fear not. Such is an invitation from God to you to roll your burdens on Him in prayer. When you meet with unexpected challenges in your academic pursuit, such as failure in a particular examination, getting involved in examination malpractices cannot be a way put. Dont follow the crowd to engage in the recruitment of examination mercenaries, massive cheating with the support of examiners or the purchase of any fake result. Bear in mind that prayer coupled with diligence will cause God to give you the success you desire. Prayer has the potential to change your constant failure to consistent success. Cast your burdens upon the Lord, for He cares for you. Approach the throne of the Almighty God with full assurance and condence of a child to his father. You cannot be denied
Challenge: Work and pray for your success.

you.

Prayer: Loving Jesus, teach me how to pray and how to depend on

218

2nd August

PATIENCE IS PROFITABLE
In your patience possess ye your souls. (Luke 21:19)

The world is in a hurry. Our road signs at times read No packing, No waiting, No U-Turn, Keep moving, etc. The world is in a mad rush. It is alarming! This situation is having its negative eect on every aspect of our lives, especially our spiritual journey on earth. The word patience is strange to many Christians today. It is not in their dictionary. Many youths today are also not ready to pursue their academic work and challenges with the patience required. They are not ready to study patiently. Their desire is to have certicates by all possible means without actually working for them. There are many fake Christians today who cannot wait upon the Lord to receive a lasting experience of salvation, sanctication, and Holy Ghost baptism. The disciples of Jesus waited in the upper room for the promise of the Holy Ghost. No wonder they did real exploits for the Lord because they waited long enough to pay the price. You too must exercise patience as it is certain that your blessings (admission, promotion and divine provision) will come at their appointed time. Patience is protable, dont be in a hurry.
Challenge: Patience is a virtue. Prayer: Lord, help me to be patient today and always.

219

3rd August

A JOYFUL COUNTENANCE
Thou hast made known to me the ways of life; thou shalt make me full of joy with thy countenance. (Acts 2:28).

Here comes the cameraman. Sit down please. He adjusts the lens, focuses on your cherubic face and then Smile. Click. The shutter captures your grinning face. And unless the picture is lost, the smile is for life. What a beautiful thing it is to smile. It is more dicult to smile than to frown your face. Someone said that asmile is the light in the window of your face that tells people you're at home. When you frown at a person or an object, your facial muscles externally will express emotions of anger or anxiety or worry or fear or frustration and disappointment. Internally too, there will be biochemical transmissions of stress hormones that are usually not good for your health. Similarly, when you smile your face expresses love, joy, happiness, aection and peace while internally your cells relax. A frowned face is an expression of stress. While a smiling and joyful face reects a good, peaceful and friendly countenance. It is healthier to smile as it is too stressful to frown. A smiling and joyful face will add beauty to your countenance and value to your life. Please, for your sake and because of your health always wear a smiling face. Some youths claim that it is natural for them to look tough and fearful. It is only thugs, hoodlums, cultists, vagabonds, miscreants and street urchins that are known for frowning and fearful looks. As a Christian, your countenance must always be peace-loving and friendly; so wherever you go today wear a smiling face.
Challenge: Smile and the whole world smiles back at you. Prayer: Lord help me to wear a happy face today.

220

4th August

DIVINE GUIDANCE
The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. (Psalms 37:23)

Decision making is necessary in our day to day life. What people consider important determines their decisions and the steps they take. For example, someone who makes good education a priority will not only decide to endure the rigors of academic pursuits; he will also be diligent in taking steps towards academic excellence. Similarly, goal setting in academics is not enough to guarantee success; appropriate steps must accompany the goals to ensure we achieve them. The steps we take on various aspects of our daily endeavors are therefore very important in preparing us for a successful future. The decisions and steps you take at youthful age are fundamental to what your adult life will look like. There is wisdom therefore in asking God to order your steps as a young person. There are many ways through which youths today receive guidance before taking important steps. While civilized youths may consult horoscopes, star-readers and fortune forecasters or even false prophets, a true child of God will seek guidance from God through prayers and theBible. God delights in youths who fear Him and walk in His ways. God is willing to guide and direct young people who walk in His ways. The Lord orders and directs the steps of the youth who has made God his God (Proverbs 16:9). You can start to enjoy Gods guidance from today if you will turn from sin and surrender your life to Christ. You can do it.
Challenge: Allow God to guide you daily. Prayer: Help me oh Lord to entrust my life into Your hands.

221

5th August

DOES JESUS CARE FOR YOU?

Casting all your care upon him; for he careth for you. (1 Peter 5:7)

No doubt about it, Jesus cares for you. In fact no one ever cares for you like Him. This is a fact which many people do not know. And many who claim to know He cares do not live in the reality of their profession. They are still burdened with sins and with the problems of life. If God will open your eyes to see how Christ loves and cares for you, you will immediately embrace His gift of salvation. A full comprehension of His love and care over your parents, siblings, relatives and friends will assure you of divine security and protection in the wilderness of this world. The knowledge of Christs care will drive all your fears away and beam light into your dark ways. All distresses, sicknesses and sorrow will vanish by faith in Christ who cares. When you are disappointed or downcast and it seems there is no one in the world that cares for you, be assured Jesus cares. When your way looks rough and your dreams appear to be shattered, He cares for you. At the time that all other people forsake you and it appears you are alone to face the reality of the problems on ground, you can count on the love of Jesus. When you are persecuted because of your faith and deprived of every right among your siblings, Christ cares and watches over you. Whatever be the situation and however hard the trial, remember that He cares.
Challenge: Jesus loves and cares for you all the time. Prayer: Heavenly Father, thank you for making me to share in the love and care of Your Son.

222

6th August

PROMPT AND PUNCTUAL

And go quickly, and tell his disciples that he is risen from the dead; and, behold, he goeth before you into Galilee; there shall ye see him: lo, I have told you. And they departed quickly from the sepulchre with fear and great joy; and did run to bring his disciples word. (Matthew 28:7, 8)

Our text today reveals to us the angelic instructions to Mary Magdalene and others at the Sepulchre of Jesus Christ after His resurrection. These women had come to see Jesus whom they thought was still in the grave. But He had risen. Instead of nding the corpse of Jesus they found an angel who told them that Christ had risen from the dead. The speed with which these women carried out this angelic errand was highly commendable. They were told to go quickly and they departed quickly and did run to bring His disciples word. They were very prompt in responding to the instructions and were punctual in delivering the message. The womens prompt response, according to Matthew, must have attracted Christs attention to rst appear to them in the next verse before appearing to Peter, James and John who were in His inner circle. What a privilege for the women to rst see Jesus after His resurrection! We must always be prompt and punctual in responding to all our duties. Punctuality at the school, church, family altar and other lawful assemblies will bring untold blessings into your life. Learn to be prompt and punctual, for you can never tell of the day you too will run errands for an angel.
Challenge: Punctuality is the soul of business. Prayer: Help me to be prompt and punctual always O God.

223

7th August

DANGER OF PROCRASTINATION
The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious. (Proverbs 12:27)

Procrastination is a terrible time waster and duty delayer. It makes one lose precious opportunities. Procrastinators give a lot of excuses which they claim do not allow them to take action at appropriate times. Some procrastinators are busy here and there doing nothing and leaving much more important things undone. The busy schedule of procrastinators makes them shift duties of today till tomorrow. Sometimes, delayed works are never done and if actions are eventually taken on such tasks, it is usually too late. You may then think about many great opportunities that might have been lost to procrastination. John Mason observed that procrastination is the grave in which opportunities are buried. Few things are more dangerous to a persons character than having nothing to do and plenty of time in which to do it. If you discover in your life that there is nothing to do with the plenty of time you have, then know that you have already left many good things undone. Learn from what Edwin Markum said: When duty comes a knocking at your gate, Welcome him in; for if you bid him wait, He will depart only to come once more And bring seven other duties to your door.
Challenge: Delaying an action for too long is a waste of time. Prayer: Deliver me, O God from procrastination.

224

8th August

HAVE YOU RECEIVED HIS GIFT?

He that spared not his own Son, but delivered him up for us all, how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? (Romans 8:32)

God is liberal in giving. He gives sunlight, moonlight, fresh air, vegetation, animals, water, natural resources and in fact everything (for us to enjoy). Its like He emptied the whole of heaven for the good of the earth - for you and me. Finally, He gave us His Son Jesus Christ and how shall he not with him also freely give us all things? He gives all things for our well-being, success, prosperity and victory. He hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ. But when the hand of faith is stretched to the greatest Giver (God) in prayer, then you can enjoy abundant supply and provision made available through Christ. God gives life. He has given His word, His Son and His Spirit. He gives pardon to the penitent, peace to the heavy-laden, purity to the lthy hearted and power for victory and eective service. He gives grace, good things, godliness and glory. God gives help, health and heaven. No doubt Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the father of lights (James. 1.17). God gives everything and as such all things are yours in Christ. Now the gift of God is eternal life. Have you received His pardon for your sins? Have ye received His Son Jesus as your Savior and Lord (John 1:12)? It is those who ask that receive. How? One, recognize your need. Two, ask from God. Three, ask in faith
Challenge: Ask, it shall be given unto you. Prayer: Lord Jesus, come into my heart to be my Lord and Savior and let me receive freely of the water of life.

225

9th August

YOUR CHOICE IS YOUR CHOICE

I call heaven and earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing: therefore choose life, that both thou and thy seed may live: (Deuteronomy 30:19)

Think twice before you take decisions today because your future depends largely on those decisions you take. Your present position and condition is the outcome of the decisions you took yesterday. Here then is good advice: watch carefully the choices you make every day. As a matter of policy, choose life instead of death, blessing not cursing, good in place of bad, and success instead of failure. You may not have noticed this but actually you are constantly taking decisions and making choices every time. Nothing happens by chance in your life without your approval. You are the product of your choices. No man can achieve success in life who has not chosen to be an achiever. However, making the right choices is not an end in itself. After you have made the right choice you must see it through. When you choose success, you must work for it. It is those who choose failure that need not work for failure is like riding a bicycle downhill. There is nothing much to do. On the other hand, success is like climbing a hill. You must work for that! If success is your choice in life, you must work and begin now. And if you persevere enough, you will discover that the journey is worth the labor.
Challenge: Decisions determine destiny. Prayer: See me through to a successful end, Oh God, as I choose success in life.

226

10th August

GOOD SUCCESS
This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. (Joshua 1:8)

The secret of success is not a mystery after all. It consists of taking realistic steps with courage and condence towards a specic goal. Success is not a game of luck or chance. You can only climb the success ladder by being persuasive and persistent. Pessimistic and passive explorers easily give up the task or pursuit. They are not enthusiastic enough to persevere to the end. The passion needed to boost their enthusiasm and endure the hardship on the way to success is lacking in many students. Faith for success is strengthened by todays scriptural reference: .. and then thou shalt have good success. God assured Joshua of success if he would be strong, courageous, conscientious, and consistent. No man wins a battle he has no courage to ght. Success eludes the fearful and doubtful whose disposition is negative in lifes adventures. You must be like Joshua and develop condence to pursue. The beautiful thing about it all is that God will stand by you and help you to succeed. What a beautiful partnership! Go for it today.
Challenge: Success comes by steadfastness in lifes endeavors. Prayer: Grant me good success, dear Lord, as I study and trust you for excellence.

227

11th August

GO BORROW VESSELS
Then he said, Go, borrow thee vessels abroad of all thy neighbours, even empty vessels; borrow not a few. (2 Kings 4:3)

Elisha was not misleading this poor widow. He knew she was already in debt. Yet if she would get out of her condition of poverty she needed to recognize her condition, work around her limitation and improve her education. Her Condition: She was a debtor who did nothing about her debt until the creditors came. Are you like that? Do you wait until the examinations come before you begin to read? Do you have any plan for your future? You must change today. Her Limitations: She was a widow who had no job or any means of sustainable income. She wasnt sure what she had in the house as selfpity was a lifestyle she had adopted. Elijah woke her up from her life of negative contentment. He opened her eyes to the opportunities around. You have oil but lack vessels. Go look for more vessels. You dont have the money to buy vessels now but you have the goodwill around you. Your neighbors friends and relatives are assets you have not tapped. Go to them, you will have enough vessels. You are surrounded by many untapped and unused blessings in form of your teachers, relatives and classmates who are ready to help if you will ask. Her Education: She obeyed Elisha, got the vessels, poured oil in them and eventually became an oil merchant. How did she know how to sell oil? She improved herself. Let every challenge you face today educate you. Be a student and a learner anywhere you may be. The secret of multiplication is education. Take advantage and the Lord will surprise you.
Challenge: Those who ask receive. Prayer: Lord, help me to obey whatever you say.

228

12th August

TRUST IN THE LORD

Trust in the LORD, and do good; so shalt thou dwell in the land, and verily thou shalt be fed (Psalms 37:3)

Trust refers to total reliance, unwavering steadfastness in banking on the ability of God. It is the quality of reposing absolute condence in God in all situations. When man realizes his impotence, he ought to remember the omnipotence of God if he truly trusts Him. Your inability must remind you of His ability, and your frailty should remind you of His faithfulness. When things fail you and life looks dreary, trust and condence in God will bring the expected miracle. When can we trust God? One, trust Him when you face your examinations. When you have papers to write and you need the help of God to pass, trust Him. Two, trust Him when you are sick or need healing. He is the Great Physician. He still heals people today. Three, trust Him in your time of need. It may be money, wisdom or courage that you need. Learn to trust God in your times of need. He has promised to help you to dwell in the land and be fed. That means He will provide for your physical and spiritual needs. The question then is: how do we trust Him? We trust Him by reading His word and obeying it. Then we must pray to Him regularly. God will not withhold any good thing from those who repose condence in Him. As a child of God, begin to trust the Lord for your success, needs and other challenges. He will not fail you, nor forsake you if you continue to live right as a child who trusts his/her Father.
Challenge: Faith is:ForsakingAllITrustHim. Prayer: Dear Lord, help me to continue to trust you in every situation.

229

13th August

BUSY AS A BEE
And as thy servant was busy here and there, he was gone. And the king of Israel said unto him, So shall thy judgment be; thyself hast decided it. (1 Kings 20:40)

Bees are always busy. They are purposeful and they know their mission. Their being busy results in the production of honey which is good food for man and animals. Butteries are full of activity too, ying all about. But they have no honey to oer us despite their being busy here and there. Academic life is not dierent! A student may be busy here and there following wrong directions. Only a protable busy schedule, based on goal-oriented activities, can make you successful. If you want to succeed, you must check your daily routines. How purposeful and protable are your activities? Are the events that occupy most of your time of any advantage to your life goals? Find out if the time spent on physical exercises, visitation, resting, relaxation, discussions and other interactions are more than the time spent reading and studying. It is a useless exercise to be a busybody instead of working to achieve something purposeful in a day. A detailed analysis of how you spend your days will help show the reasons for your busy schedule. Ensure that quality time is spent to pursue your goals. Be wise like the bees. Have a purpose for living. Let your actions drive you toward your target. As you go out today, do nothing that is useless and wasteful.
Challenge: What takes your time, takes your life. Watch out! Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to direct my daily activities in a purposeful way.

230

14th August

A CANDIDATE FOR MIRACLE

Behold, I and the children whom the LORD hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the LORD of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion. (Isaiah 8:18)

God specializes in working signs and wonders in the lives of His children. Miracles are to supernatural interventions of God in the course of nature. It is not magic the deceptive manipulation and distortion of reality. Miracles come from God. Whereas, magic is one of Satans devices to counter the truth of Gods miracles. When God began to perform signs and wonders in Egypt, Pharaohs magicians attempted to contradict the reality of Gods miracles. They failed woefully (Exodus 7:8-12, 19, 20, 22; 8:5-7, 16-19). No force on earth can stop God from fullling His plans and program for His people. Ultimately, God will always have His way (Exodus 14:18-31). No one will stop you from receiving your miracles in Jesus name. Every sincere child of God is peculiar and special before Him. Believers are more than precious jewels of great price in Gods sight. As a true child of God, you are marked for miracles this year. God has spectacular miracles attached to your name. Do you need miracles in your academic work, nance, health, and family, amongst others? Whatever your needs, God has already made provision for them. Your miracle is certain this year if you will go for it by accepting it, believing it and confessing it till you realize it in your life. You are a candidate for miracles. Praise the Lord!
Challenge: Miracle is possible for every child of God. Prayer: Heavenly Father, give me my miracles today in Jesus name.

231

15th August

REDEEM THE TIME

Redeeming the time, because the days are evil. (Ephesians 5:16).

Apostle Paul wanted the Ephesian Christians to make good use of their time. The Greek word that was translated redeem is exagorazo. It means to buy up, i.e. ransom; guratively, to rescue from loss (improve opportunity). It was used four times in the New Testament (Gal 3:13; 4:5; Ephesians 5:16 and Col 4:5) and each time it contains the same meaning of buy back, redeem. You must save your time and if you have wasted it then buy it back. A common saying states that, Time is money. Wise people are always conscious of buying back their time for protable ventures. This is because time waits for no one. It is so valuable a gift from God that we must appreciate the Giver. People who do not learn to count their days will not notice their lost opportunities till grey hairs begin to set in. A lot of school drop-outs roam the streets of our cities today regretting their losses and time wasted in their formative years. The best time to prepare for a brilliant future is now. Youve got to be wise and meticulous in your management of time to avoid the repercussions of a wasted life. Time is priceless and should not be wasted. Wasted time leads to a shattered life. There is gain in organizing your time to do your work well and on time. Students who redeem the time often reap the fruits of excellence at the end of their courses. You too must spend every moment of your time judiciously. And you will make the best of it today. You will redeem your time.
Challenge: He who has no vision of eternity will never know the true value and use of time. Prayer: Help me Oh God, to make a protable use of my time.

232

16th August

SLAVE OF THE BOTTLE

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

You need to know that God doesnt want you to be a slave of the bottle. Beware of the dangers of alcohol consumption because sooner or later it will destroy your life and make you an enemy of God. An author wrote this about the problems with the use of alcohol: Alcohol-use disorders develop in a predictable pattern. Health professionals use three stages to describe this progression. Most individuals who drink alcohol never progress beyond stage one and are commonly known as social drinkers. In this stage, individuals drink alcohol primarily as an accompaniment to social situations. In stage two of a drinking problem, many people do not show any signs of illness. But often, more severe problems develop with time and continued heavy drinking. Activities that focus on drinking may take up increasingly larger amounts of time in the persons life, and as drinking problem progresses the alcoholics intoxicated behavior may become disagreeable and antisocial .. Drinkers may neglect responsibilities to their family, seriously damaging relationships with their partners (and children). Their productivity at work declines, often resulting in job loss .. Stagethreeisthenal stage of alcohol dependence. In addition to suering from many of the problems experienced by individuals in stage two, an individual in stage three can no longer control his or her drinking. This impaired control, in which the compulsion to drink is overwhelming, is the key identier that health professionals use to diagnose people who have progressed to alcohol dependence. Now that you know where alcohol is leading you, will you follow? Please obey the word of God and be not drunk with wine
Challenge: When you are lled with the word you will not be lled Prayer: Help me Lord to be lled with Your word today.

with wine.

233

17th August

THE RIGHT TIME IS NOW

For he saith, I have heard thee in a time accepted, and in the day of salvation have I succoured thee: behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation. (2 Corinthians 6:2)

We live in a busy world. The challenges of our time seem to make the use of time more complex for young adults. A lot of things that ought to be done promptly are delayed due to the demanding schedules of the modern time. If care is not taken, once you go to school early in the morning and come back late at the night you may have no time left to do assignments or attend to spiritual things. The duty that needs urgent attention may be postponed because of limited time. But then, there is time for everything and every purpose under the heaven. Whatever is delayed or put o due to insucient time may nally be done late or haphazardly or not all. Therefore you must make good use of your time. How? You must always remember that the best time of the day is usually now!. However busy you may seem to be, attempt to do your work promptly and diligently. Procrastination is a robber. It has robbed many promising students of excellence in their work. If you shift forward what you should do now it is a problem that may aect your success adversely and obstruct your future opportunities. Students who made outstanding successes in their work did not have more time than you have. They only used their time well and you too can do the same. The best time to begin to diligently pursue your dream is now. Do not allow the confusion occasioned by the busy condition of our time rob you of the good success God has promised you. Begin today. Begin now.
Challenge: Procrastination is an enemy of your progress.

today.

Prayer: Lord, help me to be prompt, diligent and hardworking

234

18th August

ARE YOU STEALING FROM GOD?

Bring ye all the tithes into the storehouse, that there may be meat in mine house, and prove me now herewith, saith the LORD of hosts, if I will not open you the windows of heaven, and pour you out a blessing, that there shall not be room enough to receive it. (Malachi 3:10)

Have you been paying your tithes to God regularly and promptly? Have you been giving oerings whenever you go to church also? If you have not been paying your tithes and giving oerings then you have not been doing what you should be doing. You have been robbing God and you are a thief. Are you surprised? (Mal 3:8) Some youths think that they do not need to give tithe, since they are not working. Well, you have to pay something because you have income. Your income is the money that you have that you can spend as you like. When you give a tenth of your income in church, you are paying your tithe. Oering is the money you give God apart from your tithes. Paying our tithes and oerings is good. It positions us for Gods abundant blessings. When we pay our tithes and give oerings we become contributors to Gods work. It is also an evidence of our perfect love for and obedience to Gods word. It is important to remember however that you are not expected to give money that is not yours. For instance, you should not give your school fees or other forms of money that are not really yours. You should give only what you have and do it faithfully and sincerely.
Challenge: Givers never lack and givers hands are always up. Prayer: Lord, I thank you for all the good things that You have given me. Help me to give you more and more.

235

19th August

FORGET THE PAST

Remember ye not the former things, neither consider the things of old. (Isaiah 43:18)

Life is full of experiences, some good and some bad, and you may have experienced both even as a youth. It could be possible that some of those experiences are negatively inuencing your ability to move forward. Maybe you had a rough time with a teacher or some kids made life very miserable for you at school. Or the challenges could have come from your siblings or friends, and it is as if the whole world is against you. Thank God that is in the past now. You must let go of the past. Do not allow the past to determine your future. The things of old can be put behind us as we look up to God for better days. A man who falls during a race can still win a prize if he rises up promptly to continue. Todays mistake can lead to tomorrows success if it is courageously managed. As you travel the pathway of success, remember to close the door to bad experiences behind you so that discouragement does not follow you. You must forget your past mistakes, failures, heartaches, tears and poor academic performances in order to condently progress. You can still make it brilliantly if you continue. Paul the apostle had a principle of success. Hear him, but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before. I can do all things through Christ which strenghteneth me (Phil 3:13; 4:13). Make up your mind today that you will be a success in life.
Challenge: Failure teaches success.

name.

Prayer: Dear Father, give me strength and power to succeed in Jesus

236

20th August

FROM PRISON TO PALACE

And Pharaoh said unto Joseph, See, I have set thee over all the land of Egypt. (Genesis 41:41)

No condition is unending in life. Whatever be your beginning, always remember that God will take you higher. His story could have ended in calamity but it didnt. Prison life did not imprison his mind nor dampen his spirit. To the contrary, it primed him for the promotion that came. No challenge or negative situation can keep you down this year in Jesus name. Someone said that a setback is a setup for a comeback. You will excel in life in Jesus name. This year, it is your turn and time to shine. You will tell the beautiful testimony of your relocation from grass to glory and from failure to success. No one can keep you down except you let them. The brothers of Joseph could not keep him down. They sold him into slavery but they couldnt stop his dream. Potiphars wife could not lure him away from righteousness. She could get her husband to lock him up but she couldnt dent his decency and moral standing. The prison head could keep him in jail but couldnt cage his blessing. Why? Because Joseph obeyed God and kept himself free from every form of pollution. This is your year of promotion. God will lift you higher and you too must live a sinless life at home, in your school and wherever God allows you to be. Get ready; it is your turn to shine!
Challenge: If I take care of my character, my reputation will take

care of itself. D.L. Moody

Prayer: God help me to stand for you always.

237

21st August

RUN TO WIN
Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. (1 Corinthians 9:24)

Lets face it, what is the point of running a race you dont want to win? Why bother at all to compete in an event you dont want to excel in? If you can read this, then you are literate enough to understand that losers are friendless. It is the winner that gets to the inner circle and all the accolades. If you have to run at all, then run to win. Success is within the reach of every individual student who aspires for it. The ability to excel is there for you to possess. God has given every student the potentials, not only to succeed but to excel in one eld or the other. You may then ask why so many fail. One of the major causes of failure is the problem of sin. There is need for genuine repentance from sin if you want to have a close walk with God, the Author of success. When you have dealt with the sin problem you must also pay the price of excellence. This involves using your time wisely and working very hard on your studies. Sometimes you will need to study in the night and read your books ahead of the class. Paying the price to excel could also involve revising your work very well ahead of time in preparation for your examinations and honestly concentrating on your studies without any distractions. Excellence does not come overnight. Just as it takes time to lay a solid foundation before the superstructures are put on a house, it also takes time and toiling in the right direction before success is achieved.
Challenge: Assurance is two-thirds of success. Prayer: O Lord, help me to succeed whatever the cost may be.

238

22nd August

BEWARE OF TEMPTATIONS
There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it. (I Corinthians 10:13)

Beware of temptation because it will always be there. Adam was tempted so was Eve. They fell to temptations. Jesus our Lord was tempted. He overcame. You too will be tempted. That is why you must be on your guard. Think about this. Adam was tempted with food and he fell but Jesus too was tempted with food but he stood. Joseph was tempted by a woman and he stood but David was also tempted by a woman and he fell. The brothers of Joseph were tempted with money but they did not fall whereas Judas was tempted with money and he fell. What do we learn from all these? We learn that though temptation is common to all not all will fall and not all will stand. Some will fall while others will overcome. Not only that. We also see that dierent kinds of temptations will come our way. Some will be tempted with money and others with members of the opposite sex. For the majority of us young people, our problems revolve around the three gs gold, girls/guys and glory. Gold is money and girls/guys refer to members of the opposite sex while glory means fame and academic success. The purpose of the temptation is to make you to sin against God and deny the truth you have known. The Bible says there is a way of escape in the temptation that you are facing. Look for the escape route because it is not everyone who falls that can rise. But we have a Father in heaven who is able to make you stand. Dont let Him down. You will stand in Jesus name.
Challenge: Overcoming temptation will open door to testimonies. Prayer: God help me to overcome temptation every day of my life.

239

23rd August

STEP BY STEP TO SUCCESS

For who hath despised the day of small things? for they shall rejoice, and shall see the plummet in the hand of Zerubbabel with those seven; they are the eyes of the LORD, which run to and fro through the whole earth. (Zechariah 4:10)

A step after another, the longest journey is ended, goes a saying. It may be sometimes frightening to start a big task such as having to read a big book. But when you approach it word by word, line by line, and a page at a time, progress is achieved. Great tasks can be accomplished a step at a time. Much can be accomplished if you tackle the task bit by bit, a step at a time. Have you ever had an occasion when you had much to do within limited time? How did you get the job done? Take your examination period as a good example. The tendency to get confused at such a time is high. But see how you started! You write one subject at a time until you have nished the last one. However enormous a task may be, get started where you are by taking a step forward. By taking a step after the other in a continuous process, you will be getting nearer and nearer to your goal. Each step you take is a mark of progress. Therefore, however dicult the task may appear, make eorts to do what you can thoroughly and in bits. You will discover later that great task can be completed after all. Though thy beginning was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase. (Job 8:7)
Challenge: To get anywhere you must launch out from somewhere otherwise you will get nowhere John Mason Prayer: Help me o Lord to always take steps of progress.

240

24th August

NOT MY WILL
Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done. (Luke 22:42)

The prayer of Jesus should be our prayer today. He wanted the will of the Father to be done instead of His own will. Perfect, sinless Jesus did not want His own will to be done contrary to the will of the Father. What a great lesson this should be to all of us who are always so sure of ourselves. We often like to accuse our parents of not being able to understand us. This shows we are not like Jesus. He did not want His own will to be done. He wanted to do only the perfect will of God. There are times when we have to give up things we may feel we deserve (comfort, possessions, time) to accomplish the will of God in and through our lives. This is exemplied very clearly in presenting the Gospel. There are many reasons we give for not sharing our testimony of our faith with our neighbors, family and friends. Sometimes, at the center of it all are fear and pride. What will they think? What will they say? How will they respond? How will they feel about me? They are countless. Humility implies that we do not have to worry about ourselves, but to be more concerned with others. Christ was more concerned with others when he chose to obey his father. We can demonstrate the same type of humility when we encounter fears by wrestling in prayer with God and sharing His story with those around us.
Challenge: The greatness of a mans power is the measure of his ability to surrender. Prayer: Lord, help me to do Your will and not my will today.

241

25th August

ASK OF ME
Ask of me, and I shall give thee the heathen for thine inheritance, and the uttermost parts of the earth for thy possession. (Psalms 2:8)

As you step out to face the challenges of a new day think of the great possibilities ahead. Present your requests to God who can meet all your needs. This was what Gideon did when he was afraid of ghting the Midianites. He asked that dew should fall in a special way overnight. Twice he asked for dierent patterns of rainfall and twice God did exactly what he asked for. You must also ask because God is able to provide all your needs. The nation of Israel in the wilderness needed bread and meat. Moses asked for supplies and God served them Manna from heaven six days a week for forty years. God is able and He is willing to supply and provide for all your needs. Why then should you miss the great opportunity to ask? You need wisdom in your studies. You need good health. You need money to spend in school. You need good food. You need favor from God and protection from the power of Satan. You need the touch of God in all areas of your life, and you need understanding to cope with the challenges of life. Do not ask for help from those who cannot help you such as witches/ wizards, sorcerers and false prophets. We must channel our prayers to God in accordance with His promises, which can never fail.
Challenge: He who fails to ask should not complain if he fails to

receive.

Prayer: Thank You Lord for the opportunity to ask for whatever I need from You.

242

26th August

WHO SHALL GIVE THEE THANKS?

For in death there is no remembrance of thee: in the grave who shall give thee thanks? (Psalms 6:5)

Many wait until it is too late before they do what they ought to do. The Psalmist just gave an example of giving thanks to the Lord. Some are never grateful for what the Lord has done for them. Eventually they die frustrated and unhappy at their condition. What about you? Will you not give thanks to the Lord? Will you not appreciate and glorify His name? Some fail to give God thanks because they are ungrateful. They think that God has not done enough for them. They feel that what they have not got is more important than what theyve got and as a result are never grateful to God for His love and mercies. Such people are like Eve who was surrounded by uncountable trees bearing delicious fruits, yet in her ingratitude, concluded that the fruit God had forbidden was sweeter and better than all the others put together. The ungrateful are blind to Gods goodness and provisions. They neither rejoice nor receive with thanksgiving the things that God gives them. If it rains they complain and if it doesnt they blame God. The sun is always too hot and harmattan is always too cold. You will not be like these ungrateful people in Jesus name but will always give thanks to the Lord for all His benets. Wont you?
Challenge: It is better to thank God than to complain about God. Prayer: Thank You Lord for all that you have done for me.

243

27th August

OBEDIENT JESUS
Though he were a Son, yet learned he obedience by the things which he suffered. (Hebrews 5:8)

Jesus is the perfect example of obedience for us today. He is the very Son of God. He is co-Creator with God because all things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made. (John 1:3). All power in heaven and earth is committed into His hands. He has the keys of life and death. He is as big as God yet He became man: and the Word was made esh, and dwelt among us.. (John 1:14). Despite these divine attributes, He was obedient to both His heavenly Father and His earthly parents. His death on the cross was a supreme mark of humility, love and sacrice. Remember to be like the obedient Jesus in all that you do today. Whether you are in school or at home or whether you are in church or on the eld playing; learn to be like Jesus by obeying your parents, your pastors and other spiritual leaders in the church and your teachers and leaders in the school
Challenge: Wicked men obey from fear, good men, from love.

today.

Prayer: Please help me Lord to be obedient to Your instructions

244

28th August

REPAIR THESE ALTARS

And Elijah said unto all the people, Come near unto me. And all the people came near unto him. And he repaired the altar of the LORD that was broken down. (1 Kings 18:30)

Elijah was a true man of God. He saw how the prophets of Baal had desecrated the altar and broken it down. Now he wanted to call upon the Lord and ask for His favor. But before he could do that, he rst repaired the altar that was pulled down. You too must be like Elijah. First, repair the altar of Quiet Time. Quiet Time is that part of the day that one sets aside for personal prayers and reading of the Bible. It is best if you do this early in the morning before you go to school or embark on any activity of the day. It may be as short as ve minutes or long as 30 minutes. Do you do this at all? If you do, do you do it every day? Begin to observe your Quiet Time every day from today and you will be surprised how easy it will be for you to communicate with God. You must also repair the altar of personal evangelism. It has been broken down for long in the lives of many people and in many churches. Even though Jesus commanded that we do it, yet many dont. Begin today to tell somebody about Jesus. You can give out a tract, share your personal experience of salvation (if you know you are saved) or simply surrender your own life to Jesus, if you have not experienced the new birth. That is a good way to repair the altars that are broken down around you.
Challenge: Prayer should be the key of the day and the lock of the nightFuller

You.

Prayer: Help me dear Father to spend this day usefully praying to

245

29th August

WHAT IS YOUR PURPOSE?

After I have been there, I must also (Acts 19:21).

The most miserable of all people are those who have no denite aims and objectives in life. Their days run in circles and rings without any purpose. At the end of the day, they have nothing to show for the minutes and hours they have spent! However, a life of purpose moves with deniteness and measurable goals. Such a life is not tossed here and there by every wind of suggestions. Such a life is organized, and there is a time frame for every work and every activity. Nothing comes in between without proper consideration. Take a pause this morning and answer these questions: how did you spend yesterday and the past few days? Did you spend them as you planned to do? Or were they just spent as events took place? Today must not be spent like that. Be like Paul the apostle who said .. after I have been there, I must also see Rome (Acts 19:21). Have a time table and ll it with protable activities which are musts. The musts would of course include quiet time, cleaning, reading, sleeping (resting) etc. Do not allow chance events or friends to usurp or dictate the use of your time. Be in charge, take control.
Challenge: No purpose, no progress Prayer: Lord, help me to be a person of purpose.

246

30th August

FORTIFICATION OR FUTURE FOUNDATION

If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do? (Psalm 11: 3)

A good foundation fortied the house against storms, winds and possible deluge. A foundation is the solid platform for building houses that stand the test of time. Jesus spoke of two builders; one built on a solid foundation and the other with sandy foundation. Though, the two houses were beautifully decorated outwardly, the dierences were hidden (Mat 7: 24-27). It took only the rain, ood and wind of trials and tribulation to make manifest the dierence. This is also applicable to laying the foundation for education, career, social relations and spiritual experiences in the life of a young person. The scriptural fact can never be brushed aside, If the foundations be destroyed, what can the righteous do? (Psalms 11:3). And truly, there is usually no remedy for faulty foundations in any area of human life. It is recommended that you dig deep and lay the foundation for your future on the Solid Rock (Luke 6: 48). The early life is fundamental to the future prospect of every young individual. It is the period when solid foundation should be laid for progress and prosperity. The youthful days the time for career choices and development, character building and personality formation. What a young person is likely to become tomorrow can be known from the lifestyle he/she lives today. This is the reason every youngster should be diligent and mindful of how he/she lives. Your future depends on you. Your response to your work, choice of friends, principles of life and commitment to God today will collectively work together to build your future
Challenge: Your formative years are critical to your future progress, dont waste them.

O God.

Prayer: Help me lay a good foundation for my future in my youth,

247

31st August

STARTING WITH NOTHING

In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. (Genesis 1: 1-3)

Gods creative power brought about something out of nothing. And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep. You too can start somewhere. There is nothing impossible with our God. The little knowledge you have can form the basis from where great things will emerge for your success. Many students continue in the state of despondency because they do not believe in themselves. The student who despises himself and does not believe in himself cannot be an achiever. Every student is created with Gods potential for success. Success is not far-away from any student who will have faith to make progress. If you determine to bring something out of nothing in your present condition, you are destined for success. It is protable to begin to do something now, no matter how small or insignicant it seems to be, to improve you academically. The student that is complacent in his educational pursuit can never rise above the average. Take one step at a time to do something worthwhile on your path to progress. Something is always better than nothing. Something will come out of nothing if you learn to do something protable in spite of all odds.
Challenge: Line upon line, line upon line, here a little, there a little Prayer: Lord God, lead me to always do something worthwhile all the time.

248

1st September

HIGHER
But upon mount Zion shall be deliverance, and there shall be holiness; and the house of Jacob shall possess their possessions (Obadiah 17)

Being on the mountain top is a symbol of achievement. It is surely exciting and gives a sense of fulllment. It is being above common limitations. It is the opposite of being in the valley, which is the place of defeat, despair and discouragement. Climbing the mountain requires eort and determination. It is not for half-hearted and lazy people. Climbing the mountain requires focus and concentration. The climbing may be dicult. It may involve separation from some friends and denial of leisure. But the driving force in climbing must be what you will get out of it if you succeed. Surely, you will get fulllment and satisfaction. Remember also, that those climbing should not be looking down but up! As you climb to success in your academic pursuit, you should always look up to God in prayer, look up at those who have distinguished themselves and look up to being there at the end of your academic struggles. You can get to the mountain top of success today. Start by refusing to indulge yourself of some indulgences and make up your mind to get the top.
Challenge: I must go higher every day! Prayer: Lord, help me to daily move upward.

249

2nd September

HOPE RISING
Who against hope believed in hope, that he might become ... (Romans 4:18)

Football fans employ many strategies to cheer up their players. Sometimes, they clap their hands, beat drums and wave ags to motivate the players to better performance. Anytime their teams are at the verge of defeat, one major slogan they employ to cheer them is hope rising. The players response to this slogan is often fantastic. It has made some hopeless teams rise from the valley of defeat to the mountain top of victory. Many things in life could make students moody or gloomy; unfavorable external examination report, disappointment from a promising friend, delay in securing admission into tertiary institutions, the of a loved one or valuable material or ill-health. We need to know that when unpleasant experiences come our way, we must learn to resort to Gods promises in the scriptures. There is always assurance of Gods intervention if we can exercise faith in Him. Therefore, look away from your problems today, trust the Lord and cheer up. Wear a smile wherever you go and comport yourself with happy disposition. Hold on to Gods unfailing promise and do not allow circumstances around you or your feelings to dampen your hope. God will never fail you.
Challenge: I will not be moved by circumstances. Prayer: Help me Lord to hope and trust You to the end.

250

3rd September

GUIDE ME O GOD
Thou shall guide me with thy counsel (Psalm 73:24)

We live in a world full of confusion and contradictions. Taking decisions on important issues of life is sometimes dicult because of uncertainties. Nobody can boast of competence in decision making without divine guidance. The wisest approach to taking right decisions is to ask for the counsel of the Lord. This made Asaph to submit to the guidance of God as we see today in our text. The best way to travel across the pathway of life is to follow the guidance of God. God was there in the past, He is in the present and He knows everything about the future The Psalmist armed, For this God is our God for ever and ever: he will be our guide even unto death (Psalm 48:14). Gods guidance is for the meek and the humble (Psalm 25:9). The Lord, however, does not force His will on anybody. His guidance is only enjoyed by those who surrender their lives to Him and depend on Him. The youth who looks up to Him for guidance and accepts the Lord as his guide will never err in the journey of life. He will live to excel in decision making amidst confusing uncertainties in this present evil world. He will be enlightened where others are confused; refreshed when others are fainting and strong when others are weak. Therefore, make God your Guide and pray daily for His guidance in your academic quests, choice of career, future prospects, spiritual aspirations and social considerations.
Challenge: Youths guided by God can never go astray. Prayer: Guide me O God in all my ways.

251

4th September

LOOK AT IT AGAIN
And God saw everything that he had made, and, behold, it was very good (Genesis 1:31)

Human beings are always in a hurry to nish assignments, to beat a deadline, to complete projects, among others. They plan, work hard and perspire to ensure the completion of projects. But should that be all? Let us learn from God at the time of creation. For everything he created he would examine and certify it good before proceeding further. At the conclusion of creation, He looked and it was very good. The Lord here is telling us that the combination of the various good parts leads to very good. The question is: in the race to complete assignments do we ensure that each nished part is good before proceeding further? Do we just continue no matter the quality of what is being done, hoping that at the end, all things will be perfected? It may not be possible, and where it is possible, it may be very expensive and time consuming. That is why at every stage of any assignment or work, there is need to re-examine and ensure that it is good before moving ahead. Finally, when assignments are completed, there is need to create time to review all that has been done in order to perfect it. Therefore, plan your time to ensure that you are able to go through what you have written before you submit it. Make this a habit. Start today. Every review ensures timely correction; timely correction brings perfection and success.
Challenge: Never pass on what has not been ascertained as good. Prayer: Lord, help me to be meticulous in my work.

252

5th September

DANGER ZONE
Make no friendship with an angry man: (Proverbs 22:24)

The essence of friendship is to positively inuence each other. Friendship is meant to complement our strengths and correct our weaknesses. Anger is not a weakness but a sin. It is the expression of hot displeasure provoked by some action, incident or situation, and often involves a desire for retaliation. It is evil and leads to heinous crimes such as murder and assassination. It makes a person to lose the sense of decorum and decency. Anger is temporary madness. No one wants to be a friend of a mad man. That is why the word of God spell out who our friends should be. Someone who seeks to retaliate for any wrong done him should not be your friend. An angry man is a dangerous man! He is like a high voltage wire that will electrocute if touched; therefore stay away from such people. An angry man will say blasphemous and unprintable things, therefore, avoid him. You may need to ask God for help this morning if you are an angry person. Jesus has a place for you in His heart. He wants you to come unto Him in humility, subject yourself to his cleansing blood, by confessing your sins and asking Him to come into your life as Lord and Savior. As you do this, expect the best on your path today. God bless you.
Challenge: Anger is temporary madness. Prayer: Lord, keep me from angry people.

253

6th September

THE POWER OF HOPE

Why art thou cast down, O my soul and why art thou disquieted within me? Hope thou in God for I shall yet praise him, who is the health of my countenance, and my God (Psalm 42:11)

Three times, the Psalmist repeated those words to himself. His heart was sinking in deep despair. Everything seemed to work against him. Friends forsook him. Help was not forthcoming. No hope was in sight. Then the ladder of hope was lowered down unto him, he climbed on it and landed on a rm ground. Incidents of suicide among the youth are on the increase globally because of the wave of hopelessness sweeping over them. These youth suddenly realize that their world of fantasy (of drugs, sex and booze), in which they once took solace, has no more appeal or satisfaction. After a fruitless search for other sources, they end up hopelessly. To them the only escape route from their present world of reality is to commit suicide. Do you nd your situation hopeless? Is life to you rough and tough? Do you seem to be losing on all fronts? Cheer up. God is on the throne and He will rise up to help you. Only trust in His unfailing love, and the rope of hope will bring you out of the dungeon of despair in Jesus Name. Amen.
Challenge: I believe, the Lord will surely help me. Prayer: Lord, take away every feeling of hopelessness in my Life.

254

7th September

STAND FOR SOMETHING

If it be so, our God, whom we serve is able to deliver us from the burning fiery furnace But if no, be it known unto thee, O king , that will we not serve thy gods... (Daniel 3:17, 18)

It is commendable to apologize for anything that has been done wrongly. It shows sincerity and honesty. It enhances good neighborliness and interpersonal relationship. It is a practice approved by God. But there are situations where we must stand rm on convictions and not tender any apologies. We should understand that when we apologize, we are expressing our regret for wrong doing. Therefore, when we are doing right, whether people like it or not, we must not apologize. When others approach us to join them to rebel against authority and we refuse, we must not apologize. When people ask us to do anything against our conscience and our faith, we should politely decline, we must never apologize. There is no apology for being truthful, there is no apology for being holy, there is no apology for being honest and there is no apology for being upright. These are virtues approved by God and there should be no room for compromise.
Challenge: No apology for godliness. Prayer: Lord, help me to stand for you and never to apologize for doing so.

255

8th September

PAY ATTENTION
I will hear what God the Lord will speak0.. Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let everyman be swift to hear (Psalm 85:8; James 1:19)

Many mistakes made in life would have been avoided if people had paid attention to what they were told to do. The bulk of regrets which people have can be traced to their inability to pay attention to what mattered. Very often, people remain on the same spot without getting to their intended destinations because they do not pay attention to instructions. Computers and similar costly equipment are damaged because people pay no attention to the instructions in the manual. One of the major reasons students fail examinations is failure to pay attention to their teachers. Lack of attention to important issues of life has led to sorrow, sickness, unnecessary hardship, disgrace, embarrassment, defeat, confusion and even death. There is a general temptation for people to speak most of the time and pay little attention to what others are saying. But the Bible says: He that answereth a matter before he heareth it, it is folly and shame unto him (Pro 18:13). This morning you must determine to be a good listener and pay attention to things that matter for success here and in eternity. This is the pathway to a life of fulllment.
Challenge: Paying attention precedes success Prayer: Lord, make me a good listener.

256

9th September

ALWAYS DO YOUR BEST

She hath done what she should ... (Mark 14:8)

The greatest problem with many people is that they do nothing but expect the best. They dream of a successful future and promotion but spend their present day in idleness. They while away precious time pretending to be busy. They do not put in all their eort, concentration and resources required to ensure a very good outcome. Some students will never attempt solving any mathematical problem because they have settled it in their hearts that they can never solve it. Some will not bother to even apply for admission into the colleges or universities because they feel they cannot pass their SAT, or even if they pass, they can never get the nancial support. Others will not do anything because of likely negative comments of others on the outcome. They are afraid of being criticized. They have forgotten that those who are afraid of criticism will never do anything worthwhile in life. Such people however, limit themselves and limit what God can do in their lives. We should never be apprehensive of hindrances at the commencement of anything we are to do. We should simply do our best at all times and leave the rest to God
Challenge: Do your best and God will take care of the rest Prayer: Lord, give me grace to always do my best.

257

10th September

BE STRONG
Be ye strong therefore, and let not your hands be weak: for your work shall be rewarded (2 Chronicles 15:7)

There is the tendency to be lazy and indolent among many people, especially the youth. There is the inclination to think that some responsibilities are too much or too dicult for us. People tend to make a hill out of a molehill. Their vision or lack of it tends to over exaggerate the magnitude of what is to be done and the requirements to do them. Many see responsibilities as giants and themselves as grasshoppers. They feel small, inadequate, unsuitable and too weak to perform satisfactorily. But whatever responsibility or task ahead of us has been performed before by others. What is required of us is to be strong. The question is where will the strength come from? It comes from the realization that God has put within us amazing strength and ability for great accomplishment. To be strong means to overlook all hindrances, but look within to re-establish our inner strength. This kind of strength will make us overcome temptations and scale over the walls of impossibility. It can catapult us over disappointments, deprivations and defeats. Today, there is no reason you cannot do very well whatever you ought to do. You can, you must, and you will, only be strong
Challenge: God is my strength. Prayer: Help me O Lord to be strong today.

258

11th September

THE VOICE OF THE LORD

But Oh that God would speak... (Job 11:5)

We hear so many words and voices. Some are good, cheering and encouraging, but these are few. Most are however, very discouraging and sickening. Indeed, a good proportion of the words we hear are negative and bad. Information from the media does not help either, as most of it focuses on immorality, horror, evil and negativity. Under these circumstances, the heart of the average person yearns for excellent and inspiring words. Such desire cannot be wholly satised by the motivational speakers or gifted orators, but by God. When God speaks, darkness fades away; when God speaks weakness, faintheartedness and discouragement departs. When God speaks, burdens are lifted, yokes are broken and sorrow disappears. When God speaks, the heart is enlivened, the face is lightened and the spirit uplifted. When God speaks strength is renewed, hope is rekindled and joy is restored. When God speaks, questions are answered, puzzles of life are solved and life becomes more meaningful. Therefore, you must hear from God. But how do you do this? Pray to God, read the Bible, wait in silence and meditate on the word of God. Do that every day and as many times as possible.
Challenge: I will hear what the Lord God will speak. Prayer: Lord, teach me to be attentive to your word.

259

12th September

KEEP OFF
Enter not into the path of the wicked, and go not in the way of evil men (Proverbs 4:14)

Even the blind does not have much diculty recognizing wicked people by the path that they take. The path of the wicked is crooked, and never straight. It is deceitful and never truthful. The path of the wicked is marked by slander, backbiting, exaggeration, gossip and evil speaking. Their ways involve ghting, cursing, abusing, drinking, smoking, cheating, immorality and anger. The end of such people is usually sour and bleak. You are precious to God and He would not want you to be destroyed. Therefore, you need to take note of the things that are associated with the path of the wicked. If you see anyone involved in these things, you need to keep o from such people. They should not be your companions. Those who walk in the path of the wicked never have lasting success, joy and peace. They make themselves enemies of God. You should therefore avoid them. They have the tendency to befriend people like you, but you must watch out for these things and keep o.
Challenge: One bad trait is enough to keep you o. Prayer: Lord, help me to be a companion of good people.

260

13th September

THE RIGHT FOCUS

But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33)

If we are always thinking about tomorrow, then we will never do anything today, because tomorrow is always there. Can we then say that too much focus on tomorrow is the sure enemy to accomplishing anything today? This indeed is where many people miss it in life. They focus on what they cannot control! Rather, our focus should be on the area where we have some control, and that is, today. This is because it is as we focus on today that we get a better tomorrow. We should therefore organize our lives in such a way that whatever we do today contributes positively to what we hope to become tomorrow. In that regard, we should set time apart to read. It is the foundation for acquiring knowledge in every area of life from those who know it. We should read the scriptures to guide us, read our subject notes and text books to become very knowledgeable in those subjects. Also, we should read some other books, especially those by very successful people in order to learn from their experiences. We cannot change yesterday nor count on tomorrow, but we can make the very best of today. Therefore learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow
Challenge: Do the best today for a rewarding tomorrow.

today.

Prayer: Lord, help me to focus properly on what I have to do

261

14th September

MASTER OF CIRCUMSTANCES
Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us (Romans 8:37)

It is not the circumstances around us that determine what we make out of every situation of life. It is actually who we are in reality. However, many people, including youths, often blame their defeat and failures on the circumstances surrounding them. This is rather unfortunate as circumstances of life, if allowed, can clip the wings that would have propelled a person to great heights. Focusing on circumstances can actually destabilize and immobilize a person preventing him from achieving his full potential. The good news is that circumstances are never permanent, but are often the means for a person to identify, discover, develop and deploy God given potentials. The circumstances in which you nd yourself may not be your own making; nonetheless, you bear the responsibility for your disposition or response to them. Therefore, the fact that you came from a poor family and there was no money to sponsor your education should be stepping stones to success rather than obstacles. The Bible says, I have seen servants upon horses, and princes walking as servants upon the earth (Eccl 10:7). This implies that even if you are an orphan, or your parents have lost their jobs or you have failed certain subjects repeatedly, you should not see this as the end of the road for you rather you must put your faith in God with determination and perseverance to overcome these present circumstances of life
Challenge: Trust in the God brings about positive change in story. Prayer: Lord, Master of all circumstances, help me to change may awkward situation today.

262

15th September

ROOT OF HAPPINESS
Happy is he that hath the God of Jacob for his help... (Psalm 146:5)

Being happy is good and highly desirable by all. Happiness is a feeling of joy and pleasure. For most people however, their happiness depends on what happens to them. They are happy when there is enough money to spend. They are happy when others help them to achieve their purpose. They are happy when they are praised and appreciated by others. They are happy when life smiles at them. But wait a minute; things will not always be like that! There will not always be enough money to provide for all our needs. There will not always be people who are ready and able to help at all times. Many times people will not praise and appreciate us, but they will rather frown or even ridicule us! What happens in such situations? For most people, happiness disappears! But this should not be so if we have the God of Jacob for our help. The God of Jacob was with him through his problems, disappointments, sorrows and struggles. This God is always there and He is the source of all enduring happiness. To be HAPPY at all times therefore: H Hear Gods word; A- Abide in the truth; P- Pray regularly; P- Proclaim Him to others; Y Yield not to temptation.
Challenge: True Happiness is found in Christ. Prayer: Lord, keep me sweet and happy every day.

263

16th September

OVERCOMING DISCOURAGEMENT
...but David encouraged himself in the Lord his God (1 Samuel 30:6)

There are many occasions when discouragement comes into our lives. Loss of precious things like health, failure in examination or lack of promotion may all bring discouragement. Friends, relatives, parents and close associates may even make matters worse. To discourage means to make someone feel less condent and enthusiastic about something thereby restricting or hindering the achievement set of goal. What normally brings discouragement is the focus on wrong or negative ideas or information? Unfortunately, such negative ideas and information abound, and they are always beckoning to people to pay attention to them. This is where we all come in. We must realize that nothing and nobody can discourage us without our consent. We can refuse to be discouraged. But then the question is, how can we do that? Yes, the answer is simple, just focus on the Lord. Remember the Lords faithfulness in the past, remember the Lords ability to deliver and provide in the past. Think of the unchanging nature of God and rest assured that He has not forsaken you. God wants you to look away from the negative things and look unto Him. Therefore, cast o the garment of discouragement and come to Him like blind Bartimaeus (Mark 10:50) and all will be well. He has said I will never leave thee nor forsake thee (Hebrews 13:5)
Challenge: Nothing will discourage me. Prayer: Lord, help me to focus only on you.

264

17th September

LEARN FROM GOD

And God saw everything that he had made, and behold, it was very good. And the evening and the morning were the sixth day (Genesis 1:31)

We are often weighed down by the sheer size of the duties and assignments we are to perform or do. We spend considerate amount of time guring out whether or not it will be possible to accomplish them. We are sometimes distracted in the process. Some people may even complain that the duties and assignments are too heavy. But we need not give way to despair and discouragement. We should learn from God. God created the earth and all that is in it, not at once but one after the other in an orderly and progressive manner. We need to take a cue from this and divide whatever assignment we have into small bits. We should then commence with the most basic and then move on to do others. We must remember that if we do what we can with what we have, then God will make room for us to progressively move forward to accomplish greater things in life. The key is being willing to start to do something. You too can start now
Challenge: Small achievements are the door to overall success. Prayer: Help me Lord, to do all that I can now.

265

18th September

IT IS NOT TOO LATE

as my strength was then, even so is my strength now (Joshua 14:11)

There is no time limit to learning. A young person who feels it is too late for him to learn will nd it very dicult to succeed in life. A person who thinks something is too late for him to do may nd others doing it and succeeding. Age is in the mind. Cato, at eighty years of age commenced to learn the Greek language; Gladstone began to study a new language at seventy. Franklin only started his philosophical pursuits when he had reached his ftieth year. Even Socrates learned to play a musical instrument at a very old age. Moses in the Bible did not actually start to lead the children of Israel until he was eighty years of age. There is nothing we cannot do once we feel young at heart. Perhaps you wanted to pursue a course of study, learn or acquire a special skill some years ago but were unable to do so at that time because of some reasons, you can rise up today and commence. You will eventually discover that it is not too late.
Challenge: It is never too late for those who want to achieve something in life.

now.

Prayer: Help me Lord, to know that I can start that good thing

266

19th September

MOVE ON
And the Lord said unto Moses, wherefore criest thou unto me? Speak unto the children of Israel that they should go forward (Exodus 14:15)

Many things in life make people cry: when hurt by others, when precious things are lost, when aspirations appear to be thwarted, when progress is retarded, when examinations are failed and even when wrongly accused. But crying is like glue, it arrests peoples advancement and progress. That is why the Lord instructed Moses to stop crying or praying, but to move forward. While it is good to pray or cry to God, there is need for action. Most times we use prayers to replace the necessary steps that we ought to take after God has spoken to us. Faith without work is dead. Many are afraid to move forward because of the failures of the past, discouragement, intimidation by evil spirits and appearance of negative circumstances. But there is need to hear from God, after which we set our goals, make plans, pray and move. We must never yield to unbelief or self-pity. Are you held down by the guilt of sin and condemnation? Go to Jesus for forgiveness and move forward. You have no excuse for remaining where you are, therefore move forward.
Challenge: I have set my sail, I will move forward. Prayer: Lord, strengthen me to move ahead today.

267

20th September

EVER READY
How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power; who went about doing good. (Acts 10:38)

There is a great secret for doing well all the time. It is the desire of many to do well. But aictions, insults, ingratitude by others, personal problems and even the devil always pose as hindrances. In todays study, the secret of doing well is revealed Here God is giving us the secret of doing good at all times. There is need for a personal relationship with God as His child. This comes about as we repent of our sins, accept the sacrice of Jesus Christ and make Him our Lord. Thereafter, we ask for inner cleansing and daily anointing with the Holy Ghost. It is then we are ready to do good at all times. We will then be like a river that wets its course naturally and the sun that shines and radiates eortlessly when it comes out in the morning. Doing well always is the nature of God who expects that our lives should bless others. He expects that other people should feel stronger, happier and livelier after any encounter with us. Our faces ought to shed light and shine like angelic lamps into sad and discouraged hearts. It is possible if we will allow God. Why dont you then repent of your sins and accept Jesus by faith as your Savior and Lord. If you have done this, pray and believe God for inner cleansing and then ask for Gods Spirit. God will answer your prayer of faith and make you ever ready for good works.
Challenge: As I make Jesus my Savior, with the help of the Holy Spirit, I will always be ready for good works. Prayer: Lord, make me a channel of blessing today.

268

21st September

WATCH YOUR WORDS

Wherefore, my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath (James 1:19)

Spoken words are very important and can have far-reaching impact on those who hear or listen to them. Words can make or mar lives. Unfortunately, words that are spoken cannot be retrieved and destroyed like letters, they are irreversible. No wonder Jesus said For by thy words thou shall be justied, and by thy words thou shall be condemned (Matt 12:37). That is why we must be conscious of what and how we speak. Like any other thing in life, our tongues and words need to be properly regulated. Many sorrows, hardships and diculties have befallen those who do not learn to control their tongue. Lives have been cut short, supplies withheld, families scattered, friends separated, favors withdrawn, punishment meted and privileges lost because of wrong words. That is why the Bible enjoins Let your speech be always with grace seasoned with salt (Col 4:6). There is therefore the need to cultivate the habit of listening very carefully mostly to Gods word (as this will transform our thoughts and words), then listen to what others are saying and speak only when we have something protable and wise to say. You should ask the Lord for help in this area. Pray for self-control and wisdom.
Challenge: He that keepeth his mouth keepeth his life. Prayer: Lord God, help to speak only when I have something

protable to say.

269

22nd September

THE POWER OF THE LITTLE

Take heed unto thyselfAnd what I say unto you I say into all, watch (1 Timothy 4:16, Mark 13:37)

Little drops of water make the ocean. Little carelessness, gossip and unintended words, end up becoming the major determinants of success or failure in life. That is why it is very important we take care of these little things. It determines your destiny. Someone has said very aptly: Watch your thoughts, They become words Watch your words, They become actions Watch your actions, They become habits Watch your habits, They become character Watch your character Today, start by examining your thoughts. Think of good things, think well, and think positively. Watch your words too, drop loose and careless words. Take heed to your actions and avoid things that appear evil. The Lord will surely help you if you will ask Him.
Challenge: Little things can make or mar life. Prayer: Lord, help me to carefully handle little things in my life.

270

23rd September

YOUR INFLUENCE
Ye are the salt of the earth. (Mathew 5:13)

Salt is useful, but not found everywhere. In homes it is not kept in large containers like water, oil and other items. But it is very useful for preservation and avoring of food. It is usually applied in little quantities, but its presence makes a world of dierence in terms of taste. Salt makes no noise; it quietly changes the taste of things it comes in contact with. The same is expected of you. Consciously or unconsciously, you are expected to have positive inuence on the taste, views, aspirations and even outlook of the people you interact with. Such persons should never remain the same. Your sway should be such that you will never leave people the way you met them. In a very positive way, they should move from sourness to sweetness, from hopelessness to lively hope, from defeat to victory, from pessimism to optimism, from sadness to cheerfulness. Your life should be like the salt, it should preserve what is good in others and sweeten what is bitter in their lives also. Today, pray to be a good inuence. Let your works cheer up the sad and discouraged, let your hands support the weak and weary, let your smile cheer up the sorrowful and dejected.
Challenge: Be the salt of the earth. Prayer: Lord, help me inuence others positively.

271

24th September

DANGER OF EVIL ASSOCIATION

Whoso keepeth the law is a wise son: but he that is a companion of riotous men shameth his father (Proverbs 28:7)

The easiest way to stain a white cloth is to bring it in close contact with a coloring agent. The easiest way to dent good character is constant association with bad character. The easiest way to slow down a moving object is constant touch with a stationary object. Have you ever paused to think about how water wears away the rocks? It is just through regular contact. But take note, both of them are dierent in nature and character. The same applies to persons of dierent orientations, goals and pursuits coming together in regular contact. Evil companionship darkens clear vision and weakens the mind of the strong. It is very true that most youth have the desire to accomplish something worthwhile in life. However, such desire whittles down after sometime because of constant contact with other people who do not share the same aspiration. There is need for you to reconsider who your companions are. Do they help you sharpen or blur your vision? Do they help to fuel your desire for progress or freeze your passion for excellence? Are they ambition killers or ambition helpers? Check the type of companions or associations you have this morning.
Challenge: Your companions make or mar you.

Lord.

Prayer: Let your Spirit guide me in the choice of companions O

272

25th September

THE ULTIMATE PURPOSE

...God meant it unto good (Genesis 50:20)

We can never fully understand why some things are the way they are. How on earth can we explain why some things are very good, favorable and pleasant, while others are unpleasant, bitter, and bad? In this life, there are many questions for which we may not nd satisfactory answers. But there is an ultimate purpose and we know that all things work together for good (Rom 8:28). Yes, the dark nights are there for a purpose, just as the hot afternoons are there for a purpose. Also, the misrepresentation and persecutions are allowed for a purpose. Are you perplexed because most people around you seem not to understand and appreciate your life? It is for a purpose. Do you face regular criticisms from your peers and parents, even for good conduct? It is for a purpose. Does it seem that you are lonely in this world? Have you tried your best yet it appears things have not worked out exactly the way you desired them? It is for a purpose. Have you faced a challenging situation not caused by you but for which you are being held responsible? It is for a purpose. There is a reason for all these experiences. The reason lies with God. He means it for your good. Therefore, do not fret or become dejected when things are not favorable to you. Remember, the God of all grace..after that ye have suered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you (1 Peter 5:10)
Challenge: Wait to see Gods purpose. Prayer: Lord, give me grace to see you in everything.

273

26th September

THE GOD OF BATTLES

The Lord shall fight for you, and ye shall hold your peace (Exodus 14:14)

There is a battle going in the world. There is the battle between good and evil, righteousness and wickedness. There is the battle between godliness and ungodliness. There is the battle between love and hatred. Also, there is the battle between life and death, success and failure, sickness and health, poverty and prosperity as well as light and darkness. In your own life, there may be battles, some of the battles may be seen and known by other people, while some of them are known only to you. But here is good news! There is a Heavenly Fighter, God. He will ght wickedness, evil, failure, sickness, poverty and sorrow on your behalf. He has never lost any battle. He is Almighty. You only need to commit your life into His hands, let Him take over. Then you will see victory where there had been failure, health where there had been sickness, prosperity where there had been poverty and joy where there had been sorrow. You must stop ghting people, but ght your own negative thoughts and allow God to do the rest.
Challenge: The God of battle has never lost any battle. Prayer: Lord, I believe you will ght all my battles for me.

274

27th September

WHAT DO YOU HEAR?

And he said, who told thee that thou wast naked? (Gen 3:11)

The things we hear make a lot of impact on our lives. Good words have a way of lifting up our spirit. On the other hand, bad and evil words listened to regularly aects us negatively. Unfortunately, many more bad words are spoken today than good words. We pick what we say generally from what we hear repeatedly. Children easily pick the language they speak from what is always spoken around them. The Bible says, But evil communication corrupt good manners (1 Corinthians 15:33). This is because many a good idea has been chocked to death by words. Excellent initiatives have been destroyed by evil words. Discouragement has been brought into many lives through evil words. and he spake before his brethren and army of Samaria and said, what do these feeble Jews? Will they fortify themselves?.. will they revive the stones out of the heaps of the rubbish which are burned?..(Neh. 4:2). Bad words have been the front runner of rebellion. We must therefore Cease to hear the instruction that causeth to err from the words of knowledge (Prov. 19:27). Words of doubts, unbelief, fear, anxiety and indecency should be avoided. However, sound words of faith, encouragement, purity, honesty and righteousness should be embraced at all times. Therefore, be wary of what you listen to for you will eventually become what you always hear.
Challenge: Listen to what builds not what destroys. Prayer: Lord, help me to be discerning in whatever I hear.

275

28th September

VICTORY AT LAST
..there arose a great tempest in the sea (Mathew 8:24)

Just imagine this: It is a good day with a great beginning. Prayers have been oered, instructions have been received, consent has been given to advance, the weather has been good, the journey of the day has started; then there arises a great tempest. The natural question will be why the tempest now? We dont pray for tempest or storms. Do we? But they may arise even when we are right in the center of Gods will. We must not therefore be discouraged by the diculties or troubles that may come our way and conclude that we are on the wrong path. Storms of disappointments can come from a friend we trusted and who we thought could never fail us, promises that are broken when we most need them to realize our desires. We need not be afraid or discouraged by the storms, or think that everything has come to an end. Rather, we should realize that there is safety after the storm, smiles after the sweat, joy after the jeopardy and happiness after the hardships. As you step out this morning, remember that Christ is with you and His promises are there for you. Jesus did not say that His followers will not encounter storms or diculties. But the good news is that there will be victory at last. Storms do not last forever.
Challenge: Storms and diculties are stepping stones to victory. Prayer: Lord, I know victory is mine always.

276

29th September

LIMITS OF FREEDOM
...I will take heed to may ways (Psalm 39:1)

By nature, human beings are inquisitive and want to be restrained. Our eyes want to look at anything and everything around. The hands always want to touch things; the mouth wants to utter words; the feet want to move around; and our appetite wants to be satised. However, any part of the body left on its own is like nails on the ngers and feet not trimmed, or the hairs on the head not dressed. This will make man look like a wild animal or monster. Unrestrained appetite not only aects a persons health, it is also a sin before God. Unrestrained talking makes a person vain and light. Wandering thoughts are the breeding ground for evil deeds while unguarded hands are the tools for the devil. That is why wise individuals endeavor prayerfully to keep their bodies under control. But I keep under by body and bring it into subjection (1 Corinthians 9: 27). I made a covenant with mine eyes (Job 31:1). If you too want success and satisfaction, favor and approval of God, you must exercise self-restraint in every area of your life. You are not to comment on every word you hear; you are not to eat every food presented; you are not to gaze at objects of temptation. You are not to go everywhere you are invited and you are not to entertain every thought that comes into your mind.
Challenge: I am free only to do things that are right. Prayer: Lord, help me control all members of my body.

277

30th September

CORRECTION AND CHASTISEMENT

Let the righteous smite me, it shall be a kindness: and let him reprove me; it shall be excellent oil, which shall not break my head (Psalm 141:5)

Correction and chastisement are not naturally pleasant especially to youths. We either make excuses or provide reasons for what our parents seem not to understand. We try to protect ourselves in a bid to defend our ego. At times, we even feel our parents are too dicult and cannot overlook little things. After all, they too make mistakes once in a while! Why is it that every time we err, our parents come with a rod? They should leave us alone to live our lives as free moral agents. Though we are free moral agents, is our thinking free too? Listen to what the Lord says, And ye have forgotten the exhortation which speaketh unto you as unto children, My son, despise not thou the chastening of the Lord, nor faint when thou art rebuked of him: For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth, and scourgeth every son whom he receiveth (Hebrews 12:5-6). Parental reproof is an instrument of training that is good for every youth. What your parents see may not be clear to you because of your limited knowledge and experience. Your parents, no doubt, have good plans for your future. They do not want you to stray from the path of progress. They are therefore watching over you to direct, guide and lead you on the right path. You should appreciate your parents when they correct or scourge you, for it is the demonstration of their love for you. Learn to say "thank you" to them when they correct you. "He that spareth his rod hateth his son: but he that loveth him chasteneth him betimes" (Proverbs 13:24).
Challenge: God's rod and sta give comfort. Prayer: Give me a humble heart, dear Lord to appreciate corrections.

278

1st October

PLEASING GOD
...If I yet please men, I should not be the servant of Christ (Galatians 1: 10)

People around us expect so much from us. They expect that we should behave, talk and think in a particular way that they approve. They expect us to attend the meetings and partake in the activities which they organize. They expect us to drink some of the things they provide. They expect us to dress the way other people dress. They expect us to watch the movies that catch their attention. They expect us to go to the places which they approve of. However, one of the most important reasons for frustration and stagnation in life is attempting to please everybody. Anyone that attempts to please everybody will lose his identity, live in a confused state and displease God. Though we owe it a duty to do the best for the good of others, yet we should do it to please God. We must remember that most people will want to take the best out of us as long as we are seen to be useful to them, but would put us aside when they are done with us. However, God will always be with us as long as we please Him in everything. We please God by daily obedience to His word in everything, no matter how small or insignicant it may seem
Challenge: If we keep listening to what people will say, we will never arrive at where God wants us to be. Prayer: Lord, help me to please you all the time.

279

2nd October

GODS SUBSTITUTE FOR WINE

Be not drunk with wine . But be filled with the Spirit; speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, (Ephesians 5: 18-19)

People have devised various ways to make themselves happy in life. In some cases, they have resorted to partying, dancing and all forms of merriments. It is all well and good to be happy, but the means to that happiness must be godly. Unfortunately, people use enormous amount of resources such as money and time, in order to make themselves happy. Therefore, when the money is not there, they cannot be happy. But our God is an all wise God, who has made adequate provision for His children to always be happy. Happiness should not be sourced from wine! God is against it. Rather, God wants His children to be lled with His Spirit which will manifest in singing hymns and spirituals songs. But to be lled with the Spirit, you need to be a child of God through repentance from your sins and faith in the Lord Jesus Christ as your Lord and Savior. Thereafter, you need to ask the Lord to take away your stony heart that will always complain and murmur because it wants to do its own will. These done in faith, thereafter, ask the Lord to baptize you with the Holy Spirit, and He will do it. Then you will truly nd that God has made a substitute for wine!
Challenge: The Spirit lled person is always joyful. Prayer: Lord, ll me anew with your spirit.

280

3rd October

YOU HAVE SOMETHING

There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes (John 6:9)

There is a general tendency by many people to focus on what they do not have, but rather think of what others have. It is possible that because of the pressure of life and unnecessary comparison, a person may not easily recognize what he has. It is equally important to state that the vast majority of people either do not realize what they have, or they underrate them when they are made known. This tends to limit what people can do and consequently determine where people can reach in life. However, if we closely examine ourselves, we will discover that we have something that is unique and will be useful to all mankind. Moreover, if we pay adequate attention to what responsible people around us are saying concerning us, we may discover that we have something that is valuable to humanity. These things are not necessarily materialistic. Realizing them however, is one thing, but releasing them for the benet of others is far more fullling. Take a pause and reect on the positive comments that have been made about you. Think about when you sang sometimes ago and someone remarked that your song blessed him or her. Think about when you spoke to someone very kindly sometimes ago, and the person came later to appreciate the eects of your words. Indeed you have something to oer the world and the people around you every day. God knows it, and some people have recognized it. You need to discover it, develop it and release it for the benet of others. It must not be kept idle.
Challenge: Discovery is the rst step towards distinction. Prayer: Lord, help me to be useful to you today.

281

4th October

NO DISAPPOINTMENT
---- For my expectation is from Him (Psalm 62:5)

The best of all scientic predictions is conditional on other things. The best of human promises made by anyone is also conditional on many things outside human control. Human promises can be derailed by weather, disasters, sickness and even death. However, when God promises, He has all the power to fulll it. He has the power to make alive and to prosper. He also has the power to kill and destroy. He has the power to make darkness light, and the power to make light darkness. It is therefore important to look away from scientic predictions and human promises, and focus on God. Our expectation must be from God. Every other thing may fail, but God never fails. He may decide to use whatever means He deems best, in order to accomplish His promises. Therefore we should not shun the non-controversial, plain, and at times, the uncommon means through which He has designed to meet our expectation, because He is the Almighty. He brings hope out of hopelessness. He alone can make the things which have been destroyed and buried to work again. However, God will not meet our expectations under circumstances that are contrary to His word. Place your faith and condence in Him this morning. He has the last say in your situation! Look up to Him in prayer and be assured that your expectation well be met. He can never disappoint you.
Challenge: God can never fail. Prayer: Help me Lord to put all my condence in you.

282

5th October

GAINS OF PERSEVERANCE
---The waters wear out the stones:--- (Job 14:19)

There is nothing that perseverance cannot achieve. Just think on our text above: Perseverance makes the little ants climb up to the topmost point of the tallest tree. Perseverance made Abraham Lincoln to become the president of America. Perseverance will do much in your life. Perseverance in prayer will bring the results of pardon, purity, progress and power. Perseverance in studies will bring the reward of knowledge, understanding and excellence. Perseverance in focus will bring the reward of conviction, courage, commitment and accomplishment. Perseverance in righteousness will bring the reward of eternal life. Perseverance in godliness will shake and eventually uproot the trees of evil and wickedness. Perseverance in patience will break the heart of the naughty and soften the mind of the tough. Perseverance in well doing will shame the unruly, self-centered and unconcerned. This morning make up your mind to persevere in any good thing you have determined to do in your life. In prayer, pray until something happens; in studying, study until you understand and pass your examinations; in righteousness, stand right for what is right and good until you become the standard for others; in focus, remain on track despite all odds until your goal is achieved.
Challenge: There is no enduring achievement without perseverance. Prayer: Help me o Lord to remain focused.

283

6th October

VALUE YOUR VALUES

And Naboth said to Ahab, The Lord forbid it me, that I should give the inheritance of my fathers unto thee (1 Kings 21:3)

It is very easy to lose what we do not value. To value something we must know the consequences of not having it. We value sleep and rest because without it we become restless, worn-out and disorientated; we value food because without it we become hungry, weak and fragile. We value good health because without it we become immobile, uncomfortable and extremely limited. Some people value their family names because it brings them recognition, open doors and favor. Every one of us should have some values that we cherish in our lives. Those who value God will read His word, pray and obey Him at all times no matter the situation. They will say No to anything that wants to aect the value of God in their lives. Those who value prayer will nd time to pray no matter how busy they are. Those who value purity of life will abstain from obvious sources and scenes of temptation. We must also remember that individuals place dierent values on various things. The value you place on something or someone will reect how seriously you endeavor not to lose that thing or person. What value do you place on worship of God, prayer, purity, your family Name etc.? You must not allow anything to make you to lose them.
Challenge: Uphold your values and your values will stand you out. Prayer: Help me Lord not to bring shame to your Name.

284

7th October

PRACTICAL WISDOM
But the wise took oil in their vessels with their lamps (Mathew 25:4)

Just in case this pen has a problem, I must go into the examination hall with another pen says David to his friend, James. His friend looked at him with amazement, and said I trust that I can never be disappointed by my own pen, one pen is enough for me! So, both of them went into the examination hall for a 45 minutes promotion test. But twenty minutes into the test, Davids pen developed a problem, it could not write properly again. He then took the other pen and continued with the examination. Five minutes later, James pen developed a problem too, but unknown to him that David had the same problem earlier, he beckoned to him that he should lend him the extra pen, but David whispered that it was not available. James became restless and tears owed from his eyes. He had read and studied very hard, he knew the subject very well, but alas, he could not write to pass the examination. He has failed to learn from the wisdom of his friend. He was not promoted. As a person, do you always make provision just in case there is an urgent need? Do you endeavor to save some money no matter how small just in case of urgency? Or do you always have that same attitude as our friend James in the above story? We must plan wisely and act wisely in everything we are doing. Lack of discretion and wisdom brings shame and failure.
Challenge: The wise person can never be put to shame. Prayer: Help me Lord to have wisdom and discretion.

285

8th October

SIMON AND WATER BAPTISM

Then Simon himself believed also: and when he was baptized, he continued with Philip, and wondered, beholding the miracles and signs which were done. (Acts 8:13)

The crusade that Evangelist Phillip conducted in Samaria was a huge success. Many people gave their lives to Jesus and one of the converts of the crusade was Simon, the sorcerer. Before Phillip came to Samaria, Simon was a big bad man, spiritually speaking. But when Phillip preached and people came forward to accept Christ as Lord, Simon joined them. That was not all, he continued with Phillip and eventually got baptized in water! Later when Peter came to Samaria to teach people and get them baptized in the Holy Spirit, it was discovered that the conversion that Simon had was fake. But this morning lets leave Simon and his fake conversion. Let us simply focus on the verse above as it aects Simon and you. Simon believed and so do you dear reader will claim. But Simon got baptized in water. Have you? Yes, have you been baptized in water since you claimed to be born again? Jesus commanded it (Mt 28:19, Mk 16:16), the disciples practiced it (Acts 2:38, 10:48) you too must do it. It is important for you to obey the scriptures and get baptized in water. No excuse is good enough to keep you from obeying the word of God. You are not too young to do it and you are not too busy either. It is true that the thief on the cross did not get a chance to do water baptism before he died but that was because he was about to die at the time. You are alive and able and can begin the process of getting baptized in water right now if indeed you are born again. So whatever excuse you have been giving before stop it and go and get baptized in water like Jesus commanded
Challenge: Obedience always brings blessings. Prayer: Help me dear Lord to obey ALL your commands and instructions today.

286

9th October

OUR HOLY GOD

And thou shalt make a plate of pure gold, and grave upon it, like the engravings of a signet, HOLINESS TO THE LORD. (Exodus 28:36)

Our God is holy. His name is holy. His Spirit is holy. His Son is holy and His book is holy. Everything about Him, in essence, is holy. God is of a purer eye than to look at sin because He is holy. When Isaiah saw God on His throne, all that he heard the cherubim chant was Holy, holy, holy, is the LORD of hosts: the whole earth is full of his glory. (Isa 6:3). Let us now come over to the New Testament and meet Apostle John before the throne of God in the book of Revelation. What did he hear? Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come. God is the thrice holy God. And because He is holy, He wants His children too to be holy. In our text, He wanted Aaron to remember that truth. Therefore when He told Moses to make the garment of the High Priest, He wanted a visible reminder to Aaron and all who see him in his ocial robe to remember to live holy lives. The message was not just to be written, it must be engraved on a golden plate so that it would not be subject to debate or personal preferences. What God wanted from Aaron, he wants from you too. Be ye holy for I am holy.
Challenge: The Holy Bible tells us about a holy God who sent his Holy Son to us by the power of His Holy Spirit. Prayer: Help me Lord to live a holy life today.

287

10th October

LIGHT
And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. (John 1:5)

In One African country, the President said in November 2010 that his country spend about $13bn every year on generator plants. That is a lot of money to spend to generate electricity. Because the government, to a great extent, cannot supply adequate light for the people, individuals and corporate organizations decided to look for alternative means of getting light. The result is the massive importation of generators every year. Without light, darkness reigns. Jesus is the light of the world. Twice in His ministry, He revealed this eternal truth to His disciples. Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.(John 8:12). Later in John 9:5 He informed His followers emphatically: As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. It is clear then that to live without Jesus is to live in darkness. To live in darkness is the greatest misfortune that can befall any individual or nation. The good news for today is that Jesus is not only the light, but His light will never go out. It is unquenchable! Darkness will never overcome or overpower him. Because Jesus is the light you are also light in this world, and today no darkness will cover you up. Keep shining for the Lord.
Challenge: No room can accommodate light and darkness at the same time. Be the light. Prayer: Help me Lord to shine for you in all my ways today.

288

11th October

SOLOMONS STRATEGY
And all king Solomon's drinking vessels were of gold, and all the vessels of the house of the forest of Lebanon were of pure gold; none were of silver: it was nothing accounted of in the days of Solomon. (1 Kings 10:21)

Someone said that success is a journey and not a destination. Success is not a place that you reach. It is a life that you live and a dream that you pursue. Success is what you seek when you have done well. See Solomon. He refused to be satised with silver. He pursued gold and lled his house and apartment with gold such that silver didnt mean much to anyone in his days. Others could have been satised with silver. After all, silver is a valuable metal too! Solomon wanted the very best. He wanted gold and he got gold. You ought to copy this good thing from Solomon. Have you got a good result from a test or examinations? Work harder because you can still do better. Do you know how to play the keyboard or any other musical instrument? Work harder for you can do better. Do you know how to speak English well? Then learn French too! And can you speak both English and French? Then try German! We are told that there is always room for a boy or girl called Improvement. Be that boy. Improve yourself. Work hard so that you can improve on your good position. Yes, its good to be better. That was Solomons strategy. Go for it.
Challenge: Where there is no eort for improvement, there is the

danger of deterioration.

Prayer: Help me Lord to improve in every area of my life.

289

12th October

WHEN I FALL, I SHALL ARISE

Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me. (Micah 7:8)

It is said that if wishes were horses then beggars would ride. If it is possible to live a trouble free life, surely many of us would wish for such. But alas, life is not a bed of roses! Situations sometimes come our way that often make us fall. Unfortunately many remain in that position. That is not the best for you or anybody else who will fulll his destiny and purpose in life. It is not a sin to fail. The sin is in failing and not try again. (When a person fails nally, then he or she surrenders and convinces himself or herself not to try again.) The prophet Micah expressed what should be the desire of every boy and girl today. He wants you to get up if you fall. Falling is only a matter of time. We may fall over one thing or the other. Joseph was sold l into slavery and Daniel too. Hannah was barren, but prayed through till she had a child As you go out today make up your mind to try again if your rst attempt does not bring you what you want. It was the seventh attempt in Jordan River that brought the healing that Naaman wanted. Israelites had to march seven times on the seventh day round the wall of Jericho before the walls fell. Before you give up, try once more and God will bring you, your desired victory
Challenge: If you fail once, try again and again. Prayer: Give me grace O Lord to try one more time before I give up.

290

13th October

POOR HUNGRY LEPERS

And when these lepers came to the uttermost part of the camp, they went into one tent, and did eat and drink, and carried thence silver, and gold, and raiment, and went and hid it; and came again, and entered into another tent, and carried thence also, and went and hid it. (2 Kings 7:8)

The four lepers of Samaria were a funny individual. They were almost dead of hunger by the time they reached the camp of the Assyrians. But they met a deserted camp as God had supernaturally sent the Assyrians running from the Israelites. The result was that these four men met a camp that was full of food stus and other valuables. They took the food and decided to carry more of the silver, gold and raiment. They did it rst time and came for it again. As you go out today let the word of God guide you. In a time of famine it is important to recognize that food is more important. As a student, your spiritual and academic performance should mean more to you than fame and popularity among fellow students. Success in your examinations should be of utmost priority to you as you leave home for school each term. You should do better, because you know that money is not everything.
Challenge: Make God a priority and He will make you His priority. Prayer: Thank You Lord for Your love and plan for my life.

291

14th October FALSE LOGIC

Stolen waters are sweet, and bread eaten in secret is pleasant. (Proverbs 9:17)

The verse above summarizes the false logic of boys and girls who engage themselves in immorality. They say they are enjoying life, having fun, having the best time of their lives. Not only that, they persuade other youths to join them. They make fun of sin and pretend as if the Bible is an outdated book that is irrelevant for man today. From Bible days till now, immorality has always destroyed those who indulge in it. Read Numbers 25:14,15. There you see how Zimri, an Israelite went into immorality with Cozbi a Midianite. Both died while having fun. You know the story of the two sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas, the priest in Shiloh. These boys were deep into the sin of fornication & other vices. (1 Sam 2:22) even though they still continued to appear in the temple carrying out their responsibilities and assignments in the temple. The game ended on a tragic note as the two immoral church workers died the same day. Immorality is a sin against God for which those that are involved will ultimately pay for it dearly. And in any case have you forgotten the scourge of AIDS? Believe it or not it is real. Think again before you say stolen waters are sweet, for you will eventually vomit all such water that you drink. Remember there is no peace to the wicked, says the Lord. The way out is to repent and turn a new leaf. Do that today.
Challenge: Fools mock at sin. Prayer: Save me from the sin of immorality O Lord

292

15th October

DONT BEG SATAN

And Jehoash king of Judah took all the hallowed things that Jehoshaphat, and Jehoram, and Ahaziah, his fathers, kings of Judah, had dedicated, and his own hallowed things, and all the gold that was found in the treasures of the house of the LORD, and in the king's house, and sent it to Hazael king of Syria: and he went away from Jerusalem. (2 Kings 12:18)

No child of God should make peace with Satan. Satan cannot be begged or appealed to. He has no mercy to oer anyone and so when it comes to dealing with evil, the instruction of the Bible is that we resist the devil so that he can run away from us. King Jehoash thought he could pacify Hazael king of Syria by giving him all the hallowed things in the temple. The painful thing is that he was not the one who put them there in the rst place. Many of them were things that his father gave to the Lord. He was a backslider who did not know that his joy was only for a while. The peace he bought with Hazael did not last, for the following year Hazael returned, and Jehoash, having no more treasures, was obliged to hazard a battle, which he lost. He was soon killed in bed by his own servants. Remember as you go out today that you are not to make any agreement with Satan or his agents. It wont work nor last. Our God is able and willing to take care of His own. Let Him take care of you in every situation. Dont sell yourself cheap
Challenge: A fool and his money are soon parted. Prayer: Help me O Lord to be able to love you much better than I do now. Help me not to fear evil more than you.

293

16th October

THINGS FOR YOUR HEART

But Mary kept all these things, and pondered them in her heart. (Luke 2:19)

Mary, the mother of our Lord Jesus had a lot of surprises before and after Jesus was born. Angels announced her pregnancy and when the child was born angels again broke the news of the birth of the Messiah to shepherds in the night. What a child! Mary noticed the unusual events surrounding the baby Jesus and pondered about them in her hearts. The action of Mary has a number of lessons to teach us. First, is the importance of observation: It is good to be an observant student or child. You normally see many things on your way to or from school, but do you observe them closely enough? For instance, how many students are in your class and how many of them are boys? Facts are facts and if you can train your eyes on them, you will be surprised that you will see more and know more Next is meditation: Think on the things you see. Of course we are talking of useful things here. You are not to ll your mind with negative things and start to meditate on them. Meditate on things you observed and on the pattern of success in your class, family and even church. There are millions of other good ideas out there to engage your mind. The third lesson is consideration. Which of the things you are thinking about is worth follow up? Finally, you move from consideration to action. Do something about the things you have observed, meditated upon and considered. As you do this, you are moving from mediocrity to excellence. You will soon become the next genius everyone will be talking about in Jesus name
Challenge: The mind grows by what it feeds on. Prayer: Help me Lord to see more positive things today than I saw yesterday.

294

17th October

DAVID, THE WISE GIVER

Them also king David dedicated unto the LORD, with the silver and the gold that he brought from all these nations; from Edom, and from Moab, and from the children of Ammon, and from the Philistines, and from Amalek. (1 Chronicles 18:11)

Everything that a child of God has is from the Lord. We should never be unhappy to give back to Him what God gave to us in the rst place. Think of your life. Who gave you power to live? Is it not the Lord? You will remember how sometimes your parents requested from you things they had earlier given you! It could be fruits or biscuits. They might have given you a pack of biscuits only to turn around asking for a piece. Some children unfortunately say no. Then the parent would remind them that they should not have hoarded it from them since they (the parents) were the original owners. David then was a wise man. He knew it was right to give to the Lord because it was the Lord who gave him victories over the Edomites, the Moabites, the Ammonites, the Philistines and the Amalekites. Whatever spoil he took from them rightly belonged to the Lord and when he returned from his warfare, he dedicated his gains to the Lord. You too must be like David. Give your gains and all that you have to the Lord.
Challenge: Give and it shall be given to you. Prayer: Lord, You are the owner of my life. I give everything I have

to you in Jesus name.

295

18th October

TO KILL A LION
Thy servant slew both the lion and the bear: and this uncircumcised Philistine shall be as one of them, seeing he hath defied the armies of the living God. (1 Samuel 17:36)

To kill a lion is not an easy task. But David did it and he was alone. Most lions lived in groups called `pride` but some hunt alone. It is possible that the lion that David killed was alone otherwise; it is even super miracle for David to have killed a lion that was with its pride. To kill a lion takes courage and an uncommon boldness on the part of David. By weight, a lion should be heavier than David. An average lion can weigh between 120 Kg to 190 Kg. An average male human adult will probably weigh between 60-80 kg. David possibly couldnt have weighed more than 80 kg without being called a fat boy. And fat boys cannot run after lions. So David must have killed an animal that was bigger in size than him. To kill a lion takes a lot of wisdom. What weapon should one use? David had only simple weapons. A sling and ve stones. Read his description of the encounter with the lion in 1 Sam 17:35 And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him. See the sequence. He pursued the lion and smote it. The lion tried to ght back and a real physical struggle started between David and the lion. Lion ghts primarily with its paws and ferocious teeth; David, with bare hands and maybe a spear. He caught the lion by his beard (that must refer to the mane which only the male lions have) and smote it (again) until he eventually killed (slew) it. May God grant you such courage and wisdom to ght all the lions of sin, shame and Satan as you go out today in Jesus name?
Challenge: The lion you fail to kill today may kill you tomorrow. Prayer: Give me faith and courage to destroy every trace of sin and weakness in my life today, O Lord.

296

19th October

DONT LOSE YOUR DREAM

The king answered and said to the Chaldeans, The thing is gone from me: if ye will not make known unto me the dream, with the interpretation thereof, ye shall be cut in pieces, and your houses shall be made a dunghill. (Daniel 2:5)

May you never lose a God-given dream. God of heaven gave a beautiful dream to Nebuchadnezzar and he lost it. To recover the dream he called the Chaldeans, the magicians, astrologers and sorcerers to tell him the dream. Of course they couldnt. They were not the dream giver and so they could not recover it. You must learn many lessons from this story. One, never lose your God given dream. Whatever you may have to lose, it is nothing as long as you keep the dream God gives you. Two, do not seek counsel from Chaldeans. By Chaldeans we are referring to the horoscope and star columns of some magazines and newspapers or even the internet. White garment prophets are also Chaldeans. Do not go to them for advice. Three, be like the God fearing Daniel whenever you are facing a problem. To get the lost dream for Nebuchadnezzar Daniel and his three friends decided to go to God in prayer. And they prayed and prayed until the answer came. You too must develop this good habit of seeking the face of the Lord in prayer whenever you are faced with a problem beyond your powers. God will see you through and bring your dreams to pass in Jesus name.
Challenge: It is better to pray than to play. Prayer: Help me O Lord to hold on to your revelation for my life. May I never lose what You have given me.

297

20th October

THE LIMIT OF KINDNESS

And a certain man of the sons of the prophets said unto his neighbor in the word of the LORD, Smite me, I pray thee. And the man refused to smite him. (1 Kings 20:35)

God wants us to be kind to one another. Apostle Paul says And be ye kind one to another, tender-hearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ's sake hath forgiven you. (Ephesians 4:32). We must be kind in our dealings with one another. As we relate with each other, however, we must also remember to balance every action that we take with the word of God. The verse above relates to two sons of the prophets. The two were religious folks who knew how to speak to and hear from God. God gave a message to one of them to deliver to King Ahab and he was to make the message real and graphic so that Ahab would not forget it. He told his fellow son of the prophet to strike him in the name of the Lord. But the other man refused, apparently because he didnt want to injure his colleague even though he was told that God wanted him to do it. Strange as this may seem to you, the man paid heavily for this decision. He was too kind for his own good. There is a limit to kindness. Kindness to others should not make you to disobey the word of God, your parents or lawful authorities. For example, some involve themselves in examination malpractices because they want to help fellow students. There was a case of a student who gave his own ID card to a student to enable him obtain certain records that he was not eligible for. The student was caught and both were suspended from the school. A Christian student must be kind but not be stupid to disobey God, because he/she wants to please man.
Challenge: It is better to obey God, rather than men. Prayer: Heavenly Father, please help me to listen more to You than to my friends today.

298

21st October

WHY ADONIJAH MUST DIE

Now therefore, as the LORD liveth, which hath established me, and set me on the throne of David my father, and who hath made me an house, as he promised, Adonijah shall be put to death this day. (1 Kings 2:24)

The king has made up his mind. Today, Adonijah must die. Although he was the elder and a true prince in Israel, his rebellion has collapsed and the younger Solomon has been crowned instead. However, the king realized that the rebellion was not over. Adonijah still nursed the subtle ambition of becoming king. His plan was easy. Once he was able to marry Abishag, King Davids last concubine, he would be able to lay claim to his throne. Was that not the counsel that was given to the rebel, Absalom, and which he simply put to practice? Bathsheba did not see through the plot but Solomon did. And that was why he made the resolute decision that day. Adonijah must die and all because of his ambition! Now, let us talk about you. Are there not some Adonijahs in your life too that you must deal with today? Self-indulgence, laziness, gluttony, lack of self-control and inordinate ambition? Are they not elder brothers that you have not dealt with? Today, they must die. They must not live. Write down every sin that you have committed over the years and take them to the throne of grace today. Repent of them one by one and ask the Lord to forgive you for indulging in them. Then command them to leave your life and family now in Jesus name. It is done. Yes, you are free now praise God, Adonijah is dead.
Challenge: It is only a fool that will not learn from his past mistakes. Prayer: Help me O Lord to cut o every hindrance that prevents me from serving you.

299

22nd October

THE COST OF DISOBEDIENCE

Then said he unto him, because thou hast not obeyed the voice of the LORD, behold, as soon as thou art departed from me, a lion shall slay thee. And as soon as he was departed from him, a lion found him, and slew him. (1 Kings 20:36)

God hates disobedience. The story above is the story of the son of the prophets who refused to carry out divine instruction. His colleague had informed him that God wanted him to perform a certain function. He thought otherwise and did not do it. The outcome was divine judgment as the young man was destroyed by a lion. Disobedience is very costly. Many people in the Bible paid dearly for their disobedience to the word of God. Saul lost his throne, his prestige and eventually his life because of disobedience. The nation of Israel repeatedly went into slavery because of disobedience. Ask Samson and he would tell you that disobedience cost him his eyes and his ministry. The couple who started it all, Adam and Eve lost everything because of disobedience. Disobedience made King Saul to lose his throne, Samson his eyes and Lots wife, her very life. Disobedience in little things usually leads to disobedience in big things. If we fail to obey lawful instructions that our big brothers and sisters tell us then we are laying the foundations of disobedience. Soon we may begin to sco at instructions from teachers, preachers and parents. The price of disobedience is costly. No one can really aord it so obey the Lord and you will be glad you did.
Challenge: True obedience neither procrastinates nor questions. Prayer: Please help me to obey you in everything I do today O

Quarles. Lord

300

23rd October

MUCH LEARNING IS NOT MADNESS

And as he thus spake for himself, Festus said with a loud voice, Paul, thou art beside thyself; much learning doth make thee mad" (Acts 26:24) This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. (Joshua 1:8)

In life it is legitimate obligation to purse learning: Todays text gives Gods assurance for His obedient children. Actually, this is Gods plan for abiding children in the kingdom. It was inspired and penned down by the Holy Spirit to awaken you to the reality of His unfailing promise, thou shalt have good success. The rst secret of success lies in absolute assurance that you will succeed. God has said it; believe it with condence that God is faithful, who also will do it. Having strong assurance, then move on to acquire a burning ambition for success. Ensure a daily inspiration and desperation for success. Continue to dream of success and take denite actions towards it. The price of success is hard work. Remove the word I cant from your dictionary and move on to the world of I can, for I can do all things through Christ which strenghteneth me (Philippians 4:13). Finally, remember to set goals and make plans to achieve them. As you launch into the mainstream of success, note that success is not measured by the position you reach in life but by the obstacles you overcome and the positive impact you have made. You shall have good success regardless of whatever you face. Join the band of successful youths today. Lift up your banner of success and God will grant you the desires of your heart today.
Challenge: No man is born to fail as no student gets success by birth. Work hard. Prayer: Lord, make me a success in life. 301

24th October

THE BOOK OF LIFE

And there shall in no wise enter into it anything that defileth, neither whatsoever worketh abomination, or maketh a lie: but they which are written in the Lamb's book of life. (Revelation 21:27)

A good student must be able to read wide and read well. That is why you started reading. Surely, you must have read many books on Science, Arts, and English Language etc. You also must have read many novels, plays and even the Bible. But there is a book you have never read. That is the book of Life. The book of Life is one of its kind and is kept in heaven alone. No copy of the book is on earth. The book of life contains names of people who have been redeemed by the blood of Jesus. These are those who have repented of their sins and have forsaken them. When they give their lives to Jesus then their names get in the Book of Life. No name can be forged in the book. Neither can any individual use personal inuence to get his/ her name in it. It is the most secure and the most protected Book ever. Friend, is your name in this Book? As you go about, pause now and take time to pray. Get your name in the Book by repenting and confessing your sins to Jesus. Ask Him to come and be your Lord and Savior, and then He will write your name in the best Book ever. Congratulations!
Challenge: The book of Life has enough space to accommodate Prayer: God help me so that my name will be in the book of Life.

your name.

302

25th October

JUST OBEY
And Samuel said, Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, as in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams. (1 Samuel 15:22)

It has happened to you before. You were sent on an errand by mummy. On the way you saw these boys playing football. You stopped just for a look. Later you decided to play a little. That day mummy was unhappy with you because of your wrong actions. The other day you were instructed to wash plates in the kitchen. But your friends came around. So you started to talk. And when your parents returned from church the plates were still piled up in the sink. You were like Saul. You did not obey instructions. But, its time to change. Obedience is more than good intention. Obedience is action. You know what to do then you do it. That is obedience. That is what God wants your obedience. Obedience is better than dreaming and than thinking. Obedience puts you on the side of God and gets you busy working. Learn to practice obedience. Obey the word of God that you read, parents, and teachers in school. Also obey the rules and laws of the country. Obedience always brings divine blessings, both in this life and hereafter. Surely to obey is better for you.
Challenge: An obedient dog is always the masters favorite Prayer: Father in heaven please give me power to understand and

obey your word.

303

26th October

GODS SECRET PLACE

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. (Psalms 91:1)

The blessing in this verse is not for all. It is only for those who dwell in the secret place of the Most High, only such will abide under the shadow of the Almighty. We dwell there by faith and truly no place is as secure as the secret place of the Almighty. It is a hiding place for the upright and a place of defense for the faithful. No pestilence, destruction or evil can reach someone who dwells in such a place. It is a refuge to the troubled and a strong tower into which the righteous runs and is safe. No demon can touch anyone who is abiding under the shadow of the Almighty. When you come to the secret place of God there is security and safety for you. You dont have to fear Satan, accident, ghost, witches and wizards anymore. The coverage of the blood is sure and certain. His angels have the charge to watch and keep you in all your ways (Psalm 34:7; 91:11). His invisible hands will hold you lest you fall. His unfailing promises remain your basis of condence. As you go out today, let not your heart be moved as you rest in the arms of the Lord. He will neither fail nor forsake you. Abide in Christ as you continue to dwell under the secret place of the Almighty God. You will be glad you did.
Challenge: God is our refuge, a very present help in time of trouble. Prayer: Keep me, Oh God, in your secret place.

304

27th October

IT SHALL NOT STAND

Thus saith the Lord GOD, It shall not stand, neither shall it come to pass. (Isaiah 7:7)

You are in for a big surprise today. God says you will outlast your enemy. He says He will not allow their evil plans against your life to succeed. Their plan will crumble. It shall not stand. In the passage above, God drew the attention of King Ahaz to His desire to frustrate his enemies. God wanted him to take heed to be quiet. God did not want Ahaz to fear. He knew the enemies had planned against him and they were aiding each other to oppose Ahaz. In their confusion, they forget that God has the nal say! He has declared His stand against their device. It shall not stand! And what God has said shall come to pass! Hallelujah. Suppose you were there when Isaiah delivered that message from God to Ahaz, what do you think Ahaz would have done? He would have been happy! Go about today too doing what Ahaz would have done after he received the information. The message is also for you! God is speaking to you! He is saying satanic plans in your life will not stand today. It shall not come to pass. Satan has failed over you today. Child of God, rise up and walk. March over your enemy. Go north, south, east and west. The land is before you. March on to victory. Continue to conquer. The enemys plan will not stand. No matter what their threats may be, God has declared: IT SHALL NOT STAND! Amen!
Challenge: If God be for us, who can be against us? Prayer: Lord, I believe. The enemies plans against my life today shall not stand.

305

28th October

OPHIDIOPHOBIA
And he said, Cast it on the ground. And he cast it on the ground, and it became a serpent; and Moses fled from before it. (Exodus 4:3)

Ophidiophobia is the big word for snake phobia or fear of snake. It means a persistent, abnormal, andunwarranted fearof snakes, despite conscious understanding by the phobic individual and reassurance by others that there is no danger.It is an extreme unwarranted fear and/ or physical aversion to snakes. Because snakes are dangerous reptiles that can bite and kill human beings, it is good to develop a healthy fear of them. This is what happened to Moses in the verse above. But later when God told him to take the snake by the tail, he did. That means he was not really afraid to put like to the snake. You too must not allow fear of snakes to paralyze you. How can someone overcome ophidiphobia? Do what Moses did. Confront your fears. Moses ran initially but returned to grab the snake when commanded. From these we can learn the following principles: 1. Recognize snakes as dangerous animals. Beware of keeping them as pets. 2. Some species of snakes are very dangerous while some are not so dangerous. Educate yourself on the common type of snakes in your neighborhood. 3. Snakes naturally will turn and run away from human beings. They attack mainly in self-defense. You can always keep a healthy distance between yourself and snakes. 4. Wear long boots and shoes if you have to move around in the night in snake infested areas. As much as possible use a torch. 5. If you know you have been bitten by a snake, or what you suspect could be a snake, seek medical help immediately. 6. Live right and obey the word of God always. He is the one who actually gives us protection and victory over our fears.
Challenge: Fear is the interest that you pay for a debt you do not Prayer: Deliver me O Lord from fear in Jesus name. 306

owe.

29th October

SHAMEFUL SONS OF ZION

The precious sons of Zion, comparable to fine gold, how are they esteemed as earthen pitchers, the work of the hands of the potter! (Lamentations 4:2)

Gold is a very precious metal. It has been exceptionally valuable to man throughout history. It is attractive in color and we are told it is very durable. Gold cannot be destroyed and man from time immemorial has always held it in great esteem. The Bible also has a lot to say about gold. The streets of heaven are made of gold. Valuable vessels in the tabernacle in the wilderness and the temple in Jerusalem were made of gold. To be compared to gold is surely a good thing. But look at the verse above again. It said the precious sons of Zion, comparable to ne gold, are now esteemed as pitchers. You know what pitchers are, dont you? Yes, they are clay pots. Something is wrong here. Gold has become clay. This is not a promotion it is a demotion! The sons of Zion have lost their value and reputation. What a shame! Will you not help rescue the sons of Zion today? If you, as a child of God, will glorify God in all that you do today, then the glory of Zion can be restored. The world has the right to expect much from the Christian. We are like gold, valuable and precious. When we do things that bring shame and dishonor to the name of the Lord then we are bringing ourselves low before the world. Literally we are turning our gold into pitchers. May you be one of the people who will live golden lives today in Jesus name.
Challenge: How valuable do you think you are? Prayer: Help me O Lord to make the correct assessment of your grace in my life.

307

30th October

WHO IS ON THE LORDS SIDE?

Then Moses stood in the gate of the camp, and said, Who is on the LORD'S side? let him come unto me. And all the sons of Levi gathered themselves together unto him. (Exodus 32:26)

There are lines in parking lots to designate the parking spaces. There are lines drawn at intersections so that pedestrians know where to cross the street. There are little, but important, lines drawn on rulers to show units of measurement. There are lines drawn on basketball courts and football elds to help the players and referees know if the balls and players are in or out. Lines can be very important. They help us know where we stand. We are either on one side of the line or the other. Exodus 32 tells us that Moses drew a line for the people. He wanted to know where they stood. Heres why: Gods people had participated in a drunken party and had worshipped a golden calf. Drunken idolaters! Moses knew that God demands that people love, obey and worship only Him. In a very courageous move, Moses stood in front of all the people and drew a line by saying, Who is on the Lords side? Let him come to me That day, many crossed the line by standing with Moses and the Lord. Jesus too drew a line when He called out the disciples those from the multitude to follow Him. Jesus words make a very clear line: either you are for Christ or you are against Him. That same line exists today. You must decide on which side of that line you will stand. Many choose to stand on both sides of the line. They want to enjoy two worlds. But is it possible to be with Christ and with the devil at the same time? No. There is no middle ground with the Lord. At home, in the school, at work or at play, take a stand on where you stand.
Challenge: I am on the Lords side and I intend to remain there. Prayer: Lord, help me to stand even when others have fallen. Amen

308

31st October

THE DISCIPLINE OF THE DILIGENT

Go to the ant, thou sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise: Which having no guide, overseer, or ruler, Provideth her meat in the summer, and gathereth her food in the harvest. (Proverbs 6:6-8)

What dierentiates winners from losers on the track of success is ability to be disciplined and diligent. Nobody plans to lose but few people persevere to win. The ants are tiny insects with a clear vision of providing food for winter and summer. They are disciplined to diligently labor without any external supervisor to watch what they do. You must learn from them. A lot of unplanned activities will distract the attention of an undisciplined person from his duties. You must always avoid aimless visitations, unprotable journeys and baseless discussion that have no positive contribution to your lifes pursuit. A disciplined lifestyle will help you to follow your time-table, take actions on your plans and avoid procrastination in your duties. Diligence demands that whatsoever thy hands ndeth to do, do it with thy might (Ecclesiastes 9:10). Your concentration on your work ought to be total with high-level commitment. Always remember that success is not a game of chance, it comes only through hard labor. It is only the hands of the diligent that make for riches (Proverbs 10:4). You too can be listed among achievers of academic success if you are willing to pay the price. It will only cost you a disciplined and diligent lifestyle. You can do it.
Challenge: To be consistent demands discipline. Commitment demands diligence.

work.

Prayer: Oh Lord, help me to be disciplined and diligent in my

309

1st November

PROMOTION: THE GOOD AND THE BAD

For promotion cometh neither from the east, nor from the west, nor from the south. (Psalms 75:6)

Although students generally do not like examinations nevertheless they like to pass it. To this end they strive to earn marks that will get them promoted. The brilliant students hustle for excellent performances, average students make more eorts to perform better and the careless students struggle to score pass marks. The type of eort that individual student makes in his or her studies determines his or her nal results. The prudent students go for excellence by attempting big tasks, setting great goals and demonstrating diligence in their academic works. The average performers also put in a hard ght to some good result. They avoid dicult tasks because they think they have no skill to go far. The last class of students is often referred to as let my people go They are carefree, negligent and indolent in the pursuit of their academic endeavors. They do not have goals that will give them focus and directions. Normally, let my people go students do not prepare for their promotion examinations until the exercise is near. It is always very dicult for them therefore to get promoted because God does not approve indolence and laziness. Where are you among these three classes of students? You can make a new choice today and join the prudent. God is willing to help you if you aspire for promotion in your studies and also in your future life. Yes, get the good promotion and you will be happy you did.
Challenge: Diligence and promotion is a better combination than

indolence and promotion.

Prayer: Help me, Oh Lord to be prudent and diligent in my studies.

310

2nd November

THE GREATEST QUESTION

He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am? (Mathew 16:15)

There is one great question and getting the correct answer to this question solves all lifes mystery, woes, and problems and provides everlasting peace. Correct answers to other questions may produce temporary satisfaction, recognition, rewards and promotion. This most important question was asked by Jesus when he said whom say ye that I am? The question is most relevant because our present peace and progress as well as our eternal life depend on this. Who do you say Jesus is? I am sure you have answers such as He is the son of God, He is the Lord, He is God made man, He is the Redeemer, He is the Savior of the world, He is Emmanuel and so on. All these answers are correct and good, but the one answer that will change your life from bad to good, good to better, better to best, failure to success, success to outstanding success, and give you that lasting peace and joy is He is my Savior. But then I ask you this morning, has Jesus saved you from your sins? Are you free and free indeed from the power of sin? If not, turn your heart to God this morning by confessing your sins to Him, ask for forgiveness, accept him as personal Lord and savior promise Him that you will not go back to those sins again, then ask Him to uphold you, believe Him that He has answered your prayers and thank Him for doing so.
Challenge: Right answer to the greatest question brings the greatest fulllments. Prayer: Help me Lord to always acknowledge you personally as my Lord and savior for rest days of my in my life.

311

3rd November

NO HIDING
Before that Phillip called thee, when thou wast under the fig tree, I saw thee (1st John 1:48)

We must all be conscious of the presence of God everywhere. We should remember that God is all-seeing. Wherever we may be, God sees us. This knowledge should help us to be very mindful of what we do, say and allow in our lives. Many people unfortunately behave as if God does not see them but He that planted the ear shall he not hear? He that formed the eye shall he not see . The Lord knoweth the thought of man (Psalms 94: 9-11). Some people cover the evils that they have done as if God does not see or know about it. If you have done any evil, confess them to Christ, expose them and let God forgive you. The awareness that God sees us should also excite us and inspire condence in us. This means He will act to prevent us from disaster and destruction if we will look and listen to Him. Therefore as we step out today, realize God is looking at us. Let us ensure that what He sees us doing gladdens Him. Let us ensure that He does not see us in any evil. He has a record of what He sees. Let God see you standing for what is right and against what is wrong. Let God see you shinning as light in the darkness. Let God see your courage to do what is right, let Him see your diligence and industry in your studies and other endeavors. Above all, let God see your loyalty to Him, your love for the truth and your determination to be His worthy ambassador.
Challenge: Nothing is hidden from God. Prayer: Help me to walk before you in righteousness.

312

4th November

HOW TO FRUSTRATE THE KIDNAPPERS

He that dwelleth in the secret place of the most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. (Psalms 91:1)

On Wednesday August 10, 2011 according to a National newspaper in an African Country, many people including bank sta and traders as well as some elders, gathered to protest the kidnappings going on in a popular small business community in that country. The protesters also included professional bodies such as the Lawyers Bar Association, Medical Association, Bankers and businessmen and women. A prominent speaker at the rally said that about 15 people were being kidnapped daily in that community. HE described the reality of the menace of human kidnappers in that country as a real threat to humanity. If things have gone to the level where in a single city 15 people are kidnapped daily then there is need for concern. What can we do? The Psalmist oers us a reliable solution to the problem of kidnappers. Watch where you dwell (live) and be careful of where you abide (play and work). Where do you live? It is assumed that you live with your parents and since you cannot force your parents to relocate, you are bound to stay with them. But it is important for you to be aware of the potential dangers in your neighborhood so that you can adequately protect yourself as may be necessary. Dont keep late nights, and as much as possible dont show o to make people become jealous of how you spend money. Then who are your friends? At times they determine where you abide! You spend a lot of time with your friends. You need to ensure that your friends are good people who will not go behind you to cooperate with the kidnappers. Move with responsible boys and girls. Above all, put your condence in God and pray every day. As you trust Him and put your condence in Him, He will not let you down.
Challenge: Security is of the Lord. Prayer: Protect me Lord from every kidnapper today in Jesus name. 313

5th November

BETTER LIFE FOR SAINTS

For brass I will bring gold, and for iron I will bring silver, and for wood brass, and for stones iron: I will also make thy officers peace, and thine exactors righteousness. (Isaiah 60:17)

Praise God! Better life is here again. The Lord God of all, the Creator of heaven and earth has, through His prophets, announced the dawn of a new era of all round improvement for His people. God started the improvement program from the very bottom with the weakest wood. He will turn it to brass. Brass will turn to gold and that ends the rst line of blessing. The second line starts with stone which will turn to iron and iron to silver. That is the end of second line. Here is the formula: wood - brass = gold vs. stones iron = silver. The beauty of it all is that by the time God nishes with His improvement program in our world only gold and silver will be available for our use. How glorious the thought. How lofty the dream that God will make you and I better until we become gold. Praise God for being such a thoughtful Father. Imagine how truly wonderful the world will be if Christians take this truth to heart and practice it daily! Imagine how beautiful it will be if you start making a dierence in your home and school! Imagine a situation where you and all other children of God everywhere begin to get better academically, spiritually, socially, emotionally, physically and even nancially! How beautiful it will be if our teachers, parents and pastors can see a denite change for the better in every area of our lives. Surely, it is possible! God will cause you to begin to live the better life in all that you do today in Jesus name.
Challenge: The church is advancing, advance with it. Prayer: Help me dear Father to grow in every area of my life today.

314

6th November

VAIN IS THE HELP OF MAN

Give us help from trouble: for vain is the help of man. (Psalms 60:11)

Humans quest for security and safety is quite similar to that of the village chickens. Everybody (young or old) needs protection from the devouring claws of Hawks that y around every day. You need protection from various forms of accidents, evil occurrences, outbreak of pestilences, witches and wizards, demons and every from of satanic attacks. It is dangerous to live without protection from the onslaughts of the devil. Youths without security are preys to the clutches of the devil. It is however pitiful to nd young people seeking refuge under cultism and familiar spirits. Hear what the Bible says about them, Because ye have said, we have made a covenant with death and with hell are we at agreement; when the overowing scourge shall pass through, it shall not come unto us: for we shall made lies our refuge, and under falsehood have we hid ourselves, (Isaiah 28:15). It is deceitful to make lies your refuge and hide under falsehood. There is no protection in the use of fetish bands, charms, holy water or garment magic rings or soaps. Spiritual bath in a river or stream will not earn you the security you desire. True protection is only guaranteed under the shadow of the Almighty. You can make God your refuge today by giving your life to Jesus. He is your Savior and the only way to God, the Almighty. There is no safety elsewhere. There is wisdom in running to Christ today and get life insured in His blood of redemption for vain is the help of man.
Challenge: God is my Refuge. Prayer: Heavenly Father, cover me from all the dangers of life as I

make you my Refuge.

315

7th November

POTENCY OF PRAYER
Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. (James 5:16)

Prayer is eective when it is oered according to the will of God. God wants His children to pray aright and to be eective in praying. Eectual prayer involves earnestness and fervency. Every believer is expected to be ecient and eective in praying. On the part of God, He is always willing and waiting to answer if we will call unto Him according to His will. It does no matter how short or long the prayer may be, eectual fervent prayer of the righteous is ecacious. Do you have time for prayer in your daily routine? It is important you do. It can change hopeless situations, transform terrible conditions, revive a dicey future, reawaken the sleeping giants and re-energize the weak saints. Prayer is powerful and potent. It is an indispensable aspect of your Christian life if you have been saved. You should pray always, regularly, consistently and purposefully on a daily basis. It will be of immense help to you if you have prayer points scheduled for each day of the week. Do not forget to pray for your parents, pastors, brothers and sisters, church, school, community and country. You must also include in your prayers your success in academics and admission to higher institution of learning. Pray on your future development and achievement in general. It is very important for you to pray for our nation, the President, Governors and all the other rulers. Do not forget to pray for the ministers of the gospel, salvation of souls, evangelization of the world and an outbreak of revival in our time. Remember, the eectual fervent prayer of the righteous availeth much. Take time to pray this morning before you move out. Our God answers prayer.
Challenge: A praying Christian is a powerful Christian.

Lord

Prayer: Give me the spirit of prayer and grace to be praying, Oh

316

8th November

LEARNING FROM OUR MISTAKES

Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before. (Philippians 3:13)

One great way to excellence is learning through mistakes that are made. Even nature teaches that perfection comes through practice and mastery comes through mistakes. A child learns to walk by falling down and rising up several times. If the child does not fall down, he would never walk. Riding a bicycle is an exciting game for teenagers. Everybody who knows how to ride a bike has the same story to tell. The learner starts by wobbling and falling several times before he can master the art. The learner who gives up because of his mistakes at the initial stage of learning can never be a rider. The same experience holds for acquiring knowledge and achieving successful goals. Failure is an integral part of success processes. Thomas Edison recorded thousands of failure, which he used as stepping stones to his nal success. A student who avoids mistake therefore, cannot master what he is learning. The beauty of learning shines when students learn from their mistakes. Mistakes or failures should inspire students and make them more determined to learn not to commit the past errors. Someone once said, Failure inspires winners and defeats losers. It is the greatest secret of winners that the losers do not know. It is very rare to nd an academic genius who has never made a mistake. You learn fast by making mistakes and taking note of the corrections to avoid their repetition. Therefore, try to open up in your class during lessons and freely express yourself in academic discussions. Do not fear if you will make mistakes. Ask questions from your teachers and answer their questions in the ocial language of expression. Learn to appreciate corrections and make your mistakes to be stepping stones to success
Challenge: Mastery comes by making mistakes the milestones to Prayer: Heavenly Father, make me learn from my past mistakes. 317

success.

9th November

PREDICTABLE PAIN
And when thou art spoiled, what wilt thou do? Though thou clothest thyself with crimson, though thou deckest thee with ornaments of gold, though thou rentest thy face with painting, in vain shalt thou make thyself fair; thy lovers will despise thee, they will seek thy life. (Jeremiah 4:30)

God is asking you a very serious question this morning. He wants to know what you will do when what you want to avert becomes impossible to change. God had told Jeremiah to warn Israel of the impending invasion of Babylon. But Israel thought the invasion would not succeed as she had entered into league with nations around. Now God was telling the nation again to prepare for the inevitable. The invasion would come and attempts by Israel to dress like harlots to be able to solicit for help from her lovers would fail. So now that you know that God had you in mind with His question, what will you do? What will you do with your friends who are not Christians? They will disappoint and embarrass you publicly one of these days. What will you do with them? As you go out today, what will you do with your uncontrolled desire for fashion and worldliness? You want to be the modern day Jezebel? Remember, in vain shalt thou make thyself fair; thy lovers will despise thee. God is saying no matter what you do, your lovers will disappoint you. Are you prepared? Here is an advice for the simple. Do something immediately. Surrender your life to Jesus and follow Him daily. That is the wisest thing to do!
Challenge: Be prepared! Prayer: Dear Father, help me to be wise in trusting You today.

318

10th November

AWAKE FROM YOUR SLEEP

Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light. (Ephesians 5:14)

There is time for every purpose on earth. It is wise for students to carry out assignments promptly without delay. The sluggish attitude of the slothful drains times and wastes opportunities. Time and tide waits for no one. The time wasted today cannot be regained tomorrow. The earlier an average performer awakes from mediocrity the better for him if he wants to succeed. It is now time to rise from the pit of poor performance to the pinnacle of good performance; from the valley of failure to the mountain top of success and from the position of loser to that of a winner. It is time to awake and arise from sleep and unprotable relaxation that brings about average performances. It is necessary to do this in order to shine in your academic pursuit. Our text today challenges you to awake and arise from the valley of defeat and move to the realm of success, and Christ shall give thee light. The Psalmist says, Except the Lord build the house, they labor in vain that build it Psalm 127:1. It is only the God of success that can lift you up and make you an achiever. A life totally surrendered to Christ provides partnership and relationship with the God of success. Jesus wants to give you light to shine if you will turn over your life to Him today and be born again. Remember, it is now time to awake from your sleep and arise from the dead
Challenge: Christ changes life and other things Prayer: I give my life to You today, Oh God, that Christ may

change my situation

319

11th November

FROM RAGS TO RICHES

And Mordecai went out from the presence of the king in royal apparel of blue and white, and with a great crown of gold, and with a garment of fine linen and purple: and the city of Shushan rejoiced and was glad. (Esther 8:15)

This day, God will make you a boy or girl of honor in Jesus name. Your honor will not only be for today. Tomorrow, when you grow up and become old, the honor will continue to ow into your life, your academics and your future. Only a short while back, Mordecai was a man in rags. He was a gatekeeper who because of his principled opposition to Haman had become a marked man. Haman wanted him dead by all means. Now the tide has turned. The persecuted had become the prosecutor and the city of Sushan rejoiced and was glad because of his elevation. Today, your elevation too will start. You will be a carrier of hope and everything good. God will remove your old garment of sackcloth and replace it with His royal apparel of blue and white. You will be crowned with His divine presence and blessing and your life will be a blessing. You will move from rags to riches. Just remember to pray a lot. Mobilize other children of God to pray and do the work of the Lord like Mordecai did. Never worry yourself if Haman is angry. He could not kill or destroy Mordecai. Similarly, no weapon that is fashioned against you today will succeed in Jesus name. This day is for Jesus and you. Go conquer in His name
Challenge: A man of honor will do what is right, no matter when, no matter where. Prayer: Help me Lord to be a man of honor before you today.

320

12th November

THE APPOINTED TIME

And the LORD said unto Moses, Is the LORD'S hand waxed short? thou shalt see now whether my word shall come to pass unto thee or not. (Numbers 11:23)

Gods plan for you is good. He orders everything with His children in mind. That was perhaps why he created man last after every other thing that man would require for a good life had been created. This of course takes time, and unfortunately many people do not understand that seeming delays are not denials. They are only telling us that the things we need are still in the process of being perfected. It is never too late for God to act. The inability to see things this way has led to rash decisions, fretting and murmuring. But we must all remember that there is an appointed time and therefore resolve that all the days of my appointed time will I wait till my change come. Job 14:14. There is no need to be in unnecessary hurry. God will do what He says He will do. Have faith in God, believe His word, wait patiently for Him and rehearse His promises to yourself. Surely, there is an appointed time for God to fulll his word in your life. He cannot fail and He will not fail. It took 25 years before the child promised Abraham came. God did not fail then, He will not fail you too. You can depend on His word and rest on His promises. He is a faithful God who would do what He said he would do.
Challenge: I will wait upon God.

comes.

Prayer: Lord, give me grace to hold on till Your appointed time

321

13th November

I HAVE A GOLDEN FUTURE

But he knoweth the way that I take: when he hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold. (Job 23:10)

My life is not an accident. I have a destiny that I will fulll. Job went through a tougher time than I did or will ever do. Job went through more dicult situations. Job lost more relatives in a day than I have ever done. He lost more money and suered greater nancial embarrassment than I did. Not only that. Job fell sick. He was almost dead. I am not in such a hopeless case at all. Yet, this incredible man of faith saw every challenge as a test and he continued trusting the Lord. His wife counseled him to curse God and die. He did not listen to her. Some of his friends wondered why he was like a magnet. He attracted a lot of bad things to himself. He did not allow peoples comments to change his decision to trust God. Job knew that he was a man of destiny. He knew that every problem would one day come to an end. He knew God would help him to make the best of the bad situation. He knew that God was going to make something good come out of the story of his life in the end. He knew if he could endure, he would enjoy the blessings of God in the end. Now that I know the secret behind the success of Job, I will also fulll my destiny. I will trust God in every situation I will not allow my mouth to abuse or insult God in any way. I will face any challenging situation I meet with courage. I will react in the knowledge that God knows everything that is happening in my life. When I prove faithful to His demands, He will give me great honor at last. I have a golden future. Amen and amen.
Challenge: God will nd me faithful. Prayer: Help me O Lord to do everything I have to do today for your

glory and honor.

322

14th November

YOU MUST BE IN HEAVEN

And God shall wipe away all tears from their eyes; and there shall be no more death, neither sorrow, nor crying, neither shall there be any more pain: for the former things are passed away. (Revelation 21:4)

At the end of life on earth there is a place of rest for the righteous. It is a place beyond human description. It is a place of eternal joy. There are things found on earth, that will never be in this place and there are things found there that are not on earth. From our text, the following will not be there: death, sorrow, crying, and pain. The above mentioned things are very much around here, and they aect both believers and non-believers. Have you cried before? Most likely, yes. Have you suered pain, sorrows, misunderstanding, maltreatment, and denial of your rights before? What about humiliation and persecution, youve experienced them before? Thank God, all these will be absent in heaven. But heaven is not for every Tom, Dick and Harry. It is only for the righteous. All who identify with Christ here on earth will live with Him permanently in heaven. To qualify to be there, you should repent from your sins today and give your life to Christ. Refuse to go back to your sins. Depend on the grace of God daily to sustain you until you get to heaven. Pray and study your Bible. Have fellowship with youths, who are also on their way to the heavenly city. Try to persuade as many as possible to join you on the journey towards this heaven. Remember, Jesus has gone to prepare heaven for us and He is waiting there to receive us. Will you be there?
Challenge: Every new day of your Christian life gets you closer to

heaven.

Prayer: At the end of lifes journey on this earth, dear Lord, help me to rest in heaven.

323

15th November

THREE YEARS ION WHOSE SERVICE?

For the king's ships went to Tarshish with the servants of Huram: every three years once came the ships of Tarshish bringing gold, and silver, ivory, and apes, and peacocks. (2 Chronicles 9:21)

King Solomon was a very rich king. He was also a successful businessman who had many ships he was using for trade. One of the main features of the trade was a business trip to Tarshish which lasted for about three years. Three years is much in the life of a family. Whatever business will take a man away from his wife and family for three years should be a really good business. The business trip involved the buying and selling of gold, silver, ivory, apes and peacocks. Solomon was a wise man. But we who have Jesus as our Lord and Savior today are wiser. The Bible will want us to count the cost before we go on a three year sojourn selling apes and peacocks. A three year old child is big enough to run around and think of school. Three years secondary education will fetch you the upper basic school certicate. Another three years with that will fetch you a senior secondary school certicate. Additional three years will get you an ordinary National Diploma with a year for IT or National Certicate in Education if you want to be a teacher. In case you want to go to the university, three years will almost take you through the entire system. Think of the impact of the regular three year trip away from home on the families of Solomons sailors and servants. They sacriced their family life for apes and peacocks. Beware how you spend your time. What you will do in the next three years may depend on what you do with your time today.
Challenge: Your time is your wealth, use it well. Prayer: Lord, please help me use my time wisely today.

324

16th November

GOD OF RESTORATION
And the vessels also of gold and silver of the house of God, which Nebuchadnezzar took out of the temple that was in Jerusalem, and brought them into the temple of Babylon, those did Cyrus the king take out of the temple of Babylon, and they were delivered unto one, whose name was Sheshbazzah, whom he had made governor (Ezra 5:14)

Cyrus was the man God used to repair the damage done by Nebuchadnezzar. God allowed Nebuchadnezzar to invade Judah and take Israel into captivity. That was many years before. But now, the time of restoration was near and just as God had used an unbeliever to punish them, He was using another stranger to bless them. That stranger was king Cyrus who in the very rst year of his reign the Lord stirred up his spirit (Ezra 1:1) and he made a decree that the temple should be rebuilt. Not only that, he directed that all the vessels from the temple which Nebuchadnezzar had taken to Babylon should be returned. He not only made sure they were returned but he got them delivered to the new governor in Jerusalem called Sheshbazzah. Think about it. God used heathen kings to correct Israel and to restore their lost glory! How one prays that believers today will realize the love and faithfulness of God He will not always chide neither will he keep his anger forever (Ps. 103:9). Our heavenly father is merciful and He will bestow His mercies on you as you seek His face today. Whatever the enemy might have done because of our neglect of His love and His word, He is able to undo because of His faithfulness. Today God will take care of you
Challenge: Whatever the Devil had done will be undone in Jesus Prayer: Help me O Lord to trust you for my restoration.

name.

325

17th November

GOING HIGHER, YET HIGHER

But the path of the just is as the shining light, that shineth more and more unto the perfect day. (Proverbs 4:18)

Eagles aim high and so they y high. The target of the winning sprinter is the prize. The higher you aim at jumping, the better your chances will be at winning. Achievers always aim at excellence. If you focus your eyes on success, you will see yourself galloping up higher and higher every day. Complacency limits you. Everything becomes possible for you if you avoid using the word never. You will not be able to rise up from your present level of performance if you are satised with attempting small tasks. Set big goals and pursue them logically. You will discover you are moving up higher and higher every day. Someone once said, If you want to see if you can really swim, dont frustrate yourself with shallow water. Thinking big and aiming high will motivate you to work hard to achieve your goals. If anything is worth doing at all, its worth doing well. If success is your choice, go for it. Even if your present eort does not quite get you what you want, the next one will. Shine more and you will see more. Do more and you will get more. Give more and you will surely receive more as you go about making your mark today in Jesus name
Challenge:

progress.

Attempting simple and easy tasks is limiting your

Prayer: Help me Oh God, to think big and aim high

326

18th November

LONELY SAINTS
Then came there unto him all his brethren, and all his sisters, and all they that had been of his acquaintance before, and did eat bread with him in his house: and they bemoaned him, and comforted him over all the evil that the LORD had brought upon him: every man also gave him a piece of money, and everyone an earring of gold. (Job 42:11)

Only eternity will reveal the depth of the suering of Job. Only God, the king of all glory can soothe the pains and sorrows of the suerings of that man. And yet all the suering that he went through, none can compare with the challenge of loneliness. There he was, sick, poor and literally abandoned by all that mattered. He was lonely emotionally. All his children were dead and his wife had now become a stranger to him mentally and spiritually. Job was also lonely socially. This verse proves it as all his brethren (in church and fellowship) and all his sisters and all that had been of his acquaintance before literally stopped visiting him. They left him to his fate and he became someone on his own. Thirdly Job was lonely economically. The man lost his entire business for a while and the reality of nancial problems stared him in the face. You too like Job may be lonely socially, emotionally, and nancially. You may be in a school where it seems nobody likes you. You need to understand that was the case of Job, his loneliness was a direct result of Satans plan to discourage him and make him sin against God. But Satan is not the only cause of loneliness. We can be lonely sometimes because of our own negative habits that make people to leave us alone. For example, if you make it a habit to constantly ght with or abuse your friends, they will move away from you. Or if you are proud and dicult to please, people will leave you alone. But if people abandon you because you love God and like Job, you did not do anything wrong, then endure your loneliness by praying, reading the bible and good books and attending church programs regularly. God will turn your situation round in Jesus name.
Challenge: To be alone with God is not loneliness, but bliss. Prayer: Help me Lord to cherish your fellowship above human

companionship.

327

19th November

SPEAK RIGHT
A word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in pictures of silver. (Proverbs 25:11)

It is important that you should know how to talk, what to say and how to say them. You always enjoy your Pastors messages because he talks well. And even when you meet him at home or in the oce or even on the street, you expect what he will say to be tly spoken. You can imagine how attractive a golden apple will look in a silver bowl. Surely, the reection will be simply wonderful. That is exactly how your words will be when you speak well and speak correctly! How can we do that? Always think before you speak. You dont have to quickly reply every question you are asked. Take time to pause before you give answers to people questions. Take time to listen to good speakers and learn from them. There are many good speakers around you. They are in your church, school and home. Watch how they communicate with their hands, face, voice and attire. Read more and develop a good vocabulary so that you can be able to express yourself comfortably once you have to speak. Your vocabulary will determine to a great extent your power to talk and talk well. Learn how to speak softly and slowly so that you can make it easy for people to understand you. Remember that the faster you speak the more likely you will make mistakes. Go and paint a good picture with words in the heart of people today and you will realize that people will not forget you or your message
Challenge:

tongues.

Birds are entangled by their feet and men by their

Prayer: Help me O Lord to speak what you want me to speak to

people I meet today.

328

20th November

FORWARD EVER!
And the LORD said unto Moses, Wherefore criest thou unto me? speak unto the children of Israel, that they go forward. (Exodus 14:15)

You may be by the Red Sea and the road seemed blocked ahead. The Lord says move ahead. You may have received a bad result in a recently released examination results. The Lord says get going. Dont stop. Move ahead. It is somehow surprising to nd some youths who remain static in their plans and progress. They have no new dreams or visions. Year in and year out they think the same way without moving forward. These sets of youths are wishful thinkers with no courage or power to take actions to move forward. There is no signicant improvement in their spiritual life, study habit, academic achievement and life pursuit. God is interested in your physical growth, spiritual development and academic advancement. The gift and potentials to grow and move forward are available to you in Christ. All you need to do is to stir up the gift of God, which is in thee (2 Timothy 1:6) to achieve your lifes ambition. You have no reason to remain static in your spiritual life, academic pursuit, future plans and dreams. Thirst and hunger for growth by studying, exploring opportunities, generating new ideas on how to do things better. Also, learn to improve yourself through reading of biographies of great achievers. You can always improve your performance in any area of lifes pursuit. The day one stops learning to increase in knowledge and improve his lot in life is the day one starts to decline. Man must learn from the womb to the tomb. Ensure you learn every day from the Bible, useful books you read and from other people around you. As you learn, let growth be your goal. This was the experience of our Lord Jesus Christ who increased in wisdom and status (Luke 2:52). You must grow daily in knowledge, wisdom and understanding of the word of God. This is the way to be on your forward march for progress
Challenge: Only hungry minds can grow John Mason Prayer: Lord, grant unto me the grace to be diligent in my work and to always labor during the day. 329

21st November

BE HAPPY
Is any among you afflicted? let him pray. Is any merry? let him sing psalms. (James 5:13)

Merry making is a sign of joy and happiness. A merry heart shows soundness in the soul and spirit. It is a sign of well-being or wholesomeness. It is to exhibit a cheerful countenance. It is good for you to be happy and joyful. As someone said, life is too serious to be taken seriously. Take your time to be happy and joyful. There is always a bright side to every event in life. Each time you are joyful, your nerves relax momentarily from every form of tension or stress. The Bible says. A merry heart maketh a cheerful countenance and, doeth good like a medicine (Proverbs 15:13,17:22). Youths who are always cheerful have a better chance of living a healthy life. Singing is one of the best ways of appreciating God. It is also a way to express our joy. The merry heart must sing psalms and spiritual songs to the praise of the Lord. Spend today singing inspirational songs with cheerfulness of heart. God says, Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord (Colossians 3:16). A merry heart with spiritual songs of praises will add value to your face today as you go about your work. You can sing songs of praise in every situation because the joy of the Lord is your strength.
Challenge: The joy of the Lord is my strength. Prayer: Dear Lord, give me a cheerful countenance as you bear my

burden for me.

330

22nd November

THOUGHT OF GOD
Forasmuch then as we are the offspring of God, we ought not to think that the Godhead is like unto gold, or silver, or stone graven by art and mans device (Acts 17:29)

What do you think about God? With what do you compare Him in your thoughts? How do you visualize God?, what you think about God will aect what you expect from Him. Paul says, we should not think that God is like graven images carved by human imagination. How then should you think about God as you go out today? One, think of God as Creator. He existed before anything else and so He knows all things as the Creator. Everything visible and invisible came from Him. That is how to think of God. Two, think of God as Father. He is the Father of all of us and He is a good Father. When you think of all the things that a good father will do for his children, God, as our Father will do them and much more. Three, think of God as the Source of beauty and usefulness. He wants to use you to achieve certain laudable goals and objectives. He is an Artist making everything to beautify our lives. He will make everything you come across today to add beauty and honor to your life in Jesus name. Never mind any rough challenge you may come across . He will perfect what concerns you.
Challenge: As a man thinketh, so is he. Prayer: Help me dear Father to appreciate You more than ever before.

331

23rd November

CONQUERORS COURAGE
Be strong and of a good courage: for unto this people shalt thou divide for an inheritance the land, which I sware unto their fathers to give them. (Joshua 1:6)

The path of progress is often full of great challenges. There might be hurdles to scale, hills to climb, obstacles to overcome and mountains to remove. Only the courageous with conquerors spirit usually ply the road. Most times, the cowards give up and get o the path. Students who are weak nd discouragement too often on the way of success. Average performers are always on the gentle slope of mediocrity and cannot climb higher to the apex of success. The courageous are bold, brave and brilliant enough to soar higher and higher every day. Boldness to attempt the impossible and courage to move forward regardless of challenges on the way. Dare to be a champion! Be strong and of a good courage. Success journey is meant to train those who dare. Students who are rugged enough to endure the rigors on the road grow to become achievers in life. You need courage and boldness to safely pass through rough and rug erred road to achieve success. Whatever challenges you may meet on the path of progress, let your motto remain: Be strong and of a good courage.
Challenge: Champions never give up. Prayer: Dear Lord, give me the boldness of a lion and the courage of a champion to excel.

332

24th November

NO CONDITION IS PERMANENT
Why art thou cast down, O my soul? and why art thou disquieted in me? hope thou in God: for I shall yet praise him for the help of his countenance. (Psalms 42:5)

There is no condition that is permanent in life. The children of kings had walked like paupers and the poor have become princes. The soul that is down today can climb up triumphantly over adversities tomorrow. Whatever condition you may nd yourself today, you can change it. The soul that is cast down can be revived. That is what the Psalmist did in the verse above. He was not happy that discouragement was reigning. Why should you also allow your soul to become weak and weary because of money or position or an examination result? Hope thou in God. Set new goals and begin to pursue them. You should not accept as permanent your present and temporary situation. Make up your mind that you will get through, even if you have to walk on the head of the devil himself. When you decide not to allow your problems to stop you from going ahead in life, you plunge yourself into the main path of Gods plan and program for your life. The children of God are people who walk by faith, and not by sight. The Bible has many of Gods promises to strengthen your heart as you pass through the present experience of your life. Believe the word of God and take o your mind from your feelings and the words of men. Be condent in God that you will overcome all the trials and troubles of life. Do not accept any hopeless situation of life. Look up to God and seek Him for deliverance from every devastating condition of your life. He is always available to deliver and set you up on high above all problems of life.
Challenge: There is always hope in God. Prayer: Dear Lord, keep my heart xed up in your promises that

can never fail.

333

25th November

IDOLS AND THEIR MAKERS

Their idols are silver and gold, the work of men's hands. (Psalms 115:4)

Satan is a master at producing counterfeits. God made a beautiful world by His power. We see His works today and rejoice. But we see the works of mens hands and lament. Why? The works of mens hands are idols. God says He is a jealous God. He does not want His children to make or worship idols. But the works of mens hands make God to be angry and unhappy. Not only are those, the works of mens hands, easily misused. Silver is good and so is gold but for someone to use these same precious metal for idols is wrong. So let us apply the message to ourselves as you read and pray on this passage this morning. Firstly, do the works you do make God unhappy? Are you a producer of idols and subsequently a worshiper of one? Do you love idols of television, sports or Hollywood? Are you a church going idol worshipper? Secondly, are you misusing some of the good things that God has put at your disposal? Do you worship God in Spirit and truth? Do you use your talent for God or Satan? Do you sing in the choir, lead others to Christ or teach Success Home Fellowship? Remember that the works of mens hand will not stand the test of the re of Gods examinations. Everything human will be burnt in the ery furnace of Gods judgment. Turn over your work unto God today so that everything you do will be in Gods hands.
Challenge: Flesh and blood shall not inherit the kingdom of God. Prayer: Give me the power Lord to consecrate all the works of my hand to your glory alone.

334

26th November

KEEP YOUR HEART!

Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. (Proverbs 4:23)

The word of God tells the believers a number of things to keep. As a child of God, it is your duty to keep: His commandments (1 John 2:4), His law (Proverbs 28:7), your soul (Deuteronomy 4:9), and your purity (1 Timothy 5:22), and of course, to keep your heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. The heart is the center of spiritual battles that war against the soul. It is the focus of the devils attack in every life. Your heart needs protection from the assaults of the enemy. This is why God says, My son, give me thine heart, and let thine eyes observe my ways (Proverbs 23:26). The spiritual life of a Christian is dictated by the state of his heart. As a child of God, you have it as a duty to diligently keep your heart from every thought, imagination, intention and/or any ideas that may appear like evil. The heart is also the fountain of life and godliness. It can also be the source of evil. Jesus says, A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things. (Mathew 12:35). The heart must therefore be kept from lthiness, corruption, evil desires and thoughts that might come from the enemy. You must watch your heart by taking heed to what you hear with your ears, and what you see with your eyes. These are the two direct windows to your heart. Keep your heart and keep it well
Challenge: Take heed to what you hear and see.

evil.

Prayer: Help me O Lord, to be diligent to keep my heart from all

335

27th November

FAVORED SAINTS
He brought them forth also with silver and gold: and there was not one feeble person among their tribes. (Psalms 105:37)

Have you not been sometimes amazed to read a verse like the one we are reading this morning? There, the Bible says God brought Israel out of Egypt wealthy and kept the people healthy. That would be alright if it was not a large group, but these were people in their thousands, some say millions. And then think of the duration and the time in the wilderness which lasted for forty years! For forty years through a terrain that was very dicult to travel, God took care of His own. Through the valley of shadow of death and blazing desert sun, God met the needs of his children. Now think of their feeding for forty years. How many tons of manna and quail did they consume daily? Plenty for sure. Yet, not once did they suer scarcity of supplies. To crown it all, God became their personal physician. He kept them all in good health every day and all the way. By grace, I am today the Israel of God. My father who kept the Israel of old wealthy and healthy will provide for me too and keep me strong. He is my supplier. By His grace I shall not want. He is my shepherd and provider. He will meet my needs and provide for every physical and spiritual need in Jesus name. Praise the Lord.
Challenge: God is our Jehovah Jireh Prayer: Father I thank You that you are my provider and healer

336

28th November

REMEMBER!
But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the Apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. (Jude 1:17)

Two things are very important in our lives. These are what we remember and what we forget. What we remember tends to dominate our thoughts and our consciousness. It has a way of shaping our actions and governing our attitudes. What we remember has the force to either slow us down or quicken us along lifes journey. In life, we have heard words of appreciation, commendation and even condemnation. They are not meant to keep us glued to our past achievements but are to propel us to do better than we have done before. Words of warning and correction are meant to make us steer clear out of the wrong, evil and unprotable way which may jeopardize our health, the attainment of our goals and our relationship with God. On the other hand, words of instruction are meant to guide us attain our objectives in life. They are to help us live to please God and have fulllment. We must therefore not forget these words. An excellent way to avoid forgetting these words is to rehearse them over and over in our minds until they become part of us.
Challenge: What you remember inuences you Prayer: God, help me to remember what is protable and forget what is useless.

337

29th November

DOUBTERS AND MOCKERS

And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine. (Acts 2:12,13)

Heaven planned big for Pentecost. The Father poured the Holy Spirit on the waiting 120 disciples in the Upper Room in Jerusalem. The impact of the Holy Spirit on the people was much. Power came upon them from heaven and the Holy Spirit lled them in a very visible way. As the cloven tongue like of re rested on the disciples people gathered to see what was happening. They found the disciples speaking in dierent languages that were clearly understood by the people. Clear testimony, isnt it? But not so clear to the doubters. As a matter of fact it was not a testimony to the mockers. They thought they knew what was happening. To these mockers, disciples were drunk! Are you a doubter too? Do you doubt the miracles God is doing for other people? Do you doubt the genuineness of the salvation of others? Why do you doubt the work of God? Are you a mocker? Do you mock those that God is blessing and using? Mockers may be good at mocking children of God, but remember it is only those who believe that will become the children of God. Come, be a child of God today and do not be a mocker or jester.
Challenge: Mockers miss miracles and mercies of God. Prayer: Help me O Lord not to doubt your word or mock those

whom you are blessing.

338

30th November

HEALTHY LIVING
For length of days, and long life, and peace, shall they add to thee. (Proverbs 3:2)

Health is wealth, goes an ancient saying. When an individual lives in good health, he will have the privilege of pursuing his life goals without any disruptions. Youths that are healthy are wealthy. Treasures of great price are hidden in a good healthy body. You need to cherish your health more than silver and gold. When you take care of your health, you do yourself a favor. Long life and prosperity hang on a good health. You cannot pursue your academic goals without being in good health. Truly speaking, your health is your wealth. The word of God has promised believers long life and peace. The Bible says, With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation (Psalm 91:16). But then, Gods promises are not without condition. You have the duty to keep yourself healthy. It is important for everyone who desires to be healthy to eat a balanced diet, do exercises on regular basis, and rest after the days work. Moreover, youths who want to live in good health must live in a clean environment, wash their clothes and keep their bodies clean at all times. Cleanliness is next to godliness. When you maintain cleanliness within and without, you erect walls of defense against diseases. You can therefore form the habit for healthy living to prolong your life to living long by living healthy every day. Surely you can do this. Then go, do it and be clean.
Challenge: Your health is your wealth. Prayer: Dear Lord, as I observe the laws of hygiene, help me to

always be in good health.

339

1st December

LETTER FROM GOD

More to be desired are they than gold, yea, than much fine gold: sweeter also than honey and the honeycomb. (Psalms 19:10 )

Our heavenly Father is a good Father. He loves us and really cares for us. He gave us His only begotten Son and prepared us for glory and heaven through His word. His word can be compared to a letter written to us by someone who cares for us. Good letters are always taken care of by their recipients. People who receive their copies of such letters cherish them. The word of God, the Psalmist says is better than gold. It is also better than honey. We all love honey for its sweetness. It means that we should take the word of God as gold and honey. What will that mean to you? Firstly, it means that as gold is generally valued, so must we put great value and importance on the Bible. Dont allow people to play with your Bible, sit on it or tear it for any reason. Do not use your Bible as a book of magic or make it a charm to ward o evil spirits. The value of the book is in your reading and obeying its contents. Secondly, make it precious and enjoyable by devoting time to read it, study and meditate on it daily. You can set a goal of reading it through this year. You can turn many of its passages into songs that you can sing. Many have done this over the ages and you can do so too. You should memorize great promises of God. Make your Bible a joyful reading experience today and you will nd it more to be desired than gold and sweeter than honey
Challenge: I know the Bible is inspired because it inspires me

Moody.

O Lord.

Prayer: Teach me to read, believe and live out your word today

340

2nd December

HAVE FAITH IN GOD

And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God. (Mark 11:22)

One indispensable companion in every believers life journey is faith. It is your virtue for victory, your tenet for triumph and your precept for progress. The Bible denes faith as. The substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). Faith is like check you receive instead of actual currency notes. A check is as good as the amount on it and it is reliable in business transactions. Faith is seeing the invisible and believing the incredible. It is reposing absolute condence in God for all your needs. It is taking God at His word and confessing His words until the promises are fullled. Faith can reorganize your thought, reshape your perception and renew your hope in God. Faith is the believers hand that receives from God. Through faith nothing shall be impossible to you. Jesus told the disciples the plain truth for their daily up-keep: Have faith in God. You also need this God-kind of faith in your daily aairs. We are assured in the scriptures that, without faith it is impossible to please him (Hebrews 11:6). We also learn in another place that, The just shall live by faith (Romans 1:17). You begin to realize then that faith is central and fundamental to your life as a Christian. Faith will make you to conquer in all your battles and put you above all circumstances. Put on, the shield of faith and you, shall be able to quench all the ery darts of the wicked (Ephesians 6:16). Friend, have faith in God.
Challenge: The just shall live faith. Prayer: Dear Lord, make me strong in faith.

341

3rd December

IT IS ALL ABOUT YOU

And wheresoevers the children of men dwell, the beasts of the field and the fowls of the heaven hath he given into thine hand, and hath made thee ruler over them all. Thou art this head of gold. (Daniel 2:38)

Nebuchadnezzar did not know that he was very important in the plan and program of God for all ages. It was Daniel, who told him that he was the head of gold that he saw in the dream. The king did not know that the dream was about him. How easy it is for many of us to remain ignorant of our true value and capability. Even you, dear reader, could have a lot of potentials that you have not developed. Lets check a few things about you Your birth: Your physical birth was a miracle because you were one of the millions who might not have been born. Besides, you were born to your parents instead of someone else. Your birth was truly one in a million. Your gift: You were born fully loaded. You came with a lot of gifts that may even never be fully known till you die. You could have come with musical talents. No one knows for sure till you begin to sing! You could be a writer, a poet or scientist. You could be an inventor, or explorer or a farmer. Your ability is in-built and the more you work hard at discovering your worth, the more you will discover. One thing is certain you were born with the ability to do certain some things very well more than what many others could do. Your choices. You have made a number of good choices in life before now. And today you chose to read this devotional. That is a good choice. The aggregate of your good choice will make you a success that you want to be. Yes, you are the head of gold. Congratulations!
Challenge: You are more than you think you are. Prayer: Help me dear Lord, to realize my worth today. 342

4th December

GO ON
I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 3:14)

Go on. Dont stop to see what you have been missing from your old lifestyle. The call of God upon your life is that you move forward. Jesus has no reward for those who turn back. The reward of God is only for those who continue to the end. To turn back is the same as to turn away from the Lord. Dont do that! Each time you look back, you lose the sight of the future. You must remember that your success lies ahead and not behind. Youths that look back live in the past and not in the reality of the present. Neither can such people even work truly for the advancement of their careers. The problem with such people is that the present would have passed before they start regretting the loss opportunities. Someone rightly observe that, The man who wastes today lamenting yesterday will waste tomorrow lamenting today. Note that and make sure you are not a victim of its negative prophecy. Your future does not depend on yesterday but on how well you utilize the opportunities that come your way today. Be a youth with foresight. Look up and look forward! Your success lies ahead.
Challenge: Tomorrow depends on today but not on yesterday. Prayer: Help me dear Lord, to look forward and never backward.

343

5th December

OUR WEALTHY GOD

The silver is mine, and the gold is mine, saith the Lord of hosts. (Haggai 2:8)

In case you dont know, God is giving you important information today. He is telling you to understand this basic principle of life and labor. Because you are one of the young people in life who are dreaming of a successful life where all their basic nancial needs will be met, you need the information. What is it? God is the owner of money. He is the giver of money. He is the solution to all problems including money. He is the provider of wealth. When we accept God as the source, provider and sustainers of wealth, we will be willing to joyfully return to Him out of the portions we have received. We will be happy to do this because of our realization that He made them available to us. Secondly, our desire for money will be directed to the one who can give it. If God is the source and provider, then He is the one we ought to meet for our needs. We should realize now that we can get whatever we want from God only when we go to Him directly. It will be wrong of anyone to expect God to give him money when he/she would not ask from Him, but would rather go to make such a request from a barber across the street. Prayer will play more roles in our life if we need Gods blessing. Finally, our attitude to money will be dierent. We will not see money as master, or make having it a do or die aair. Today, God is throwing a challenge. To you. Accept it and be blessed. Reject it and face Gods Judgment
Challenge: What God owns, He gives to whoever He likes. Prayer: Give me the understanding to realize that all that I have is

from You Lord.

344

6th December

TEMPTED LIKE US
For we have not an high priest which cannot be touched with the feeling of our infirmities; but was in all points tempted like as we are, yet without sin. (Hebrews 4:15)

A father once took his child to a secondary school that he (the father) attended. It was an old school but at the time, it was being rebuilt. He pointed out their classrooms, hostel and principals oce. When they got to the assembly hall the father told the boy This is the place where we do our assembly every morning. This is where I was appointed prefect. This is the center of our school life. I saw a lot and it made me better. Theres nothing good or bad that I did not see in this hall. It gave me clear understanding of the challenges that young people go through. Jesus, our Lord and Savior could take us also on a trip down memory lane. He could take us to the temple, where for three days He talked with the religious, to the wilderness where He held Satan at bay. He could share of His years of popularity when all men wanted more of Him and the miracles. He could also tell us of the night of scorn when all men (including all His disciples) deserted Him. Jesus saw it all. He bore the pain and the pleasure. He did not complain but remain steadfast and focused through it all. He wants you to be like Him. When you face the next round of challenges that might break out either in your school or home, remember Jesus. He went through the same and remained faithful. He was tempted like us and yet did not sin. God will help you also to withstand temptation like He did.
Challenge: Every moment of resistance to temptation is a victory.

Faber

Prayer: Help me Lord to endure trials and temptations like you did.

345

7th December

THE FIRE TEST

And I will bring the third part through the fire, and will refine them as silver is refined, and will try them as gold is tried: they shall call on my name, and I will hear them: I will say, It is my people: and they shall say, The LORD is my God. (Zechariah 13:9)

God has a test that He wants you to write. As with every serious examination, the syllabus is wide and challenging. The test will last as long as you are ready to write it. Be a good student. Prepare well to write lifes examination. Please be informed of the following so that you can prepare well for the tests: You will write the test yourself. God says I will bring . through. Everyone will write the examinations. It is the re test. The test, that separates the boys from the men. The test will inict some pain and injury to your person. It is like a military drill which will force you to change and adapt to dierent situations you may not have been accustomed to. You will be free to call for assistance during the course of the test, as God takes you through the dierent dicult situations in life. He will be waiting to help you once you call. He wants you to come out successful in every way. You will meet many students like you who are also writing the examinations. You are not alone. And so you should interact with others and learn from their successes and failures. Every child of God in the Bible wrote the examinations and passed. You too will pass in ying colours in Jesus name
Challenge: A test is an opportunity to prove your best. Prayer: Give me strength dear Lord to be the best for You no matter

what comes my way today.

346

8th December

PRAYER FOR YOUR HEALTH

Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth. (3 John 1:2)

Here is an apostolic wish and prayer for you. May your life be physically and spiritually healthy? When somebody is sick, all other things will be irrelevant save the desire to be healed. It is only a healthy youth that can think, plan and pursue his academic goals. A sick individual will be weak and weary of the move to success. Everyone knows that good health is more important than food, clothes, money or any other pressing need of man. A healthy youth is a more likely person to do well academically because it takes time and a lot of physical and mental energy to reach the top. Your health is your wealth and it is not the will of God for you to be sick. Your success solely depends on your physical, spiritual and academic soundness. It becomes imperative then that you take good care of your health. Medical practitioners often say that prevention is better than cure. You must therefore follow simple precaution on daily hygiene to keep yourself from germs and bacteria that breed disease. It is your duty to ensure that you drink good water, wear clean clothes, keep sanitary rules, observe a period of rest, eat balanced diet and carry out regular exercise. God has the power to keep you healthy but you also have your part to play. May the prayer of Apostle John, work positively on you today in Jesus name.
Challenge: Healed by His stripes. Prayer: Dear Lord, keep me healthy and wealthy in Christ.

347

9th December

WISE WORSHIPPERS
And when they were come into the house, they saw the young child with Mary his mother, and fell down, and worshipped him: and when they had opened their treasures, they presented unto him gifts; gold, and frankincense, and myrrh. (Matthew 2:11)

The wise men from the east were truly wise. They knew whom they should worship. They came from far away to the little child Jesus. Although he was then a young and small child, yet these wise men fell down, and worshiped him. That is true wisdom. As you begin your activities for this day, the best place to begin is at the feet of Jesus. The baby in the manger is now Lord of lords and King of kings. Worship Him in spirit and truth. How can you worship Him today? Firstly, pray in the name of Jesus. He commanded His disciples to ask anything they want from the Father in His name. So we must all pray in the name of Jesus. Secondly, read His word. The words of Jesus are what we call the Bible. Read and meditate on the things that you read from the Bible. Do what it commands and run away from what it condemns. Then look at the verse above again and see what these wise men did. They presented gifts to Jesus. So must you. Your body is a gift. Present it to Jesus. Your eyes, legs, hands and indeed every part of your body should be presented to Jesus so that you too will be able to serve and follow Him faithfully. Finally, be a witness for Jesus. Tell other people about Jesus. Tell them about His love and mercy and how He has been good to you.
Challenge: Wise men still seek Jesus. Prayer: Help me Lord to worship you in spirit and in truth.

348

10th December

THE PRICE OF WISDOM

Man knoweth not the price thereof; neither is it found in the land of the living. (Job 28:13)

The statement above is an answer to a question asked in the preceding verse. The question is: where shall wisdom be found? And where is the place of understanding? The answer given is that it cannot be found in the land of the living. But, before that answer was given, an observation had been made. And that observation is that man does not even know the price of wisdom! That is to say that man does not know the value of wisdom. How then can man nd a thing that he cannot properly assess? Do not be surprised at the remark of the Bible on wisdom. You see, we are living in an age where many wise men are called fools and foolish people are honored as wise. There is the wisdom of the world and the wisdom from God. Both are not the same. Think of what happens in your school. You will notice that many gentle, Godfearing and hardworking students may not easily be recognized or popular among students. Who are the wise ones? They are in the evaluation of the world, the fashionable, arrogant, good looking, sports-loving snobs. The world does not place much value on true wisdom. We should not be like them. We should identify ourselves with the people who appropriate wisdom from above. After all, the Bible has clearly told us that the wisdom of God is foolishness to men. Be content therefore, to embrace His own kind of wisdom. Then you will truly be a wise person.
Challenge: Wisdom is the right use of knowledge Spurgeon Prayer: Heavenly Father, please grant me wisdom in all that I will do today.

349

11th December

CONQUERING COVETOUSNESS
I have coveted no mans silver, or gold, or apparel. (Acts 20:33)

The Bible warns us against covetousness. And Apostle Paul obeyed that Bible injunction throughout the three years that he spent ministering to the Lord in Asia. As he gave his valedictory message to all of them in Miletus, he stated his obedience to the injunctions of the Bible not to covet. Covetousness is a problem with many young people today. We live in a world where new things come out every time. You just bought a shoe, the very best in the market at the moment, next week, you can be sure that another version, this time a better one, will come out. The same occurs with clothes, cars and books. That is why the Bible warns us against covetousness. Paul obeyed the word of God. He did not covet anybodys things. How can we also cope with the demand of God? First, begin to thank God for what you have. Every day when you wake up sing the song Count your blessings. Literally practice what you are singing, for the Lord truly has blessed you too. Then read the Bible and also read good books that will help you to serve God better. Thirdly, associate with the people who have Godly desires. What you talk about most of the time will be what you are thinking of. If all that your friends are talking about is money and material things, this will form what you will be thinking about every time. Finally, begin to practice how to be satised with what you have. This is called contentment. Look at the things that other people have with appreciation, knowing that God will give better things to you too if you are grateful.
Challenge: There is a suciency in the world for mans need, but not for mans greed. Prayer: Thank you Lord for all that you have given me. I am grateful.

350

12th December

THE PRAYER OF FAITH

And the prayer of faith shall save the sick, and the Lord shall raise him up; and if he have committed sins, they shall be forgiven him. (James 5:15)

The prayer of faith can be understood to mean the prayer that does not take No for an answer. It is a kind of prayer of assurance that God is there and He is listening and that the answer is coming by all means. An author wrote Faith is not something you switch on for ve minutes when you make a request to God. The prayer of faith sets up a faith-situation. You are standing before God. You stay in that situation or relationship until the prayer is nally answered. A writer said when people do not pray, it is because they dont believe He is listening. Jacob was sure of the presence of God and he said: I will not let thee go, except thou bless me (Genesis 32:26). The prayer of faith is one that stirs God into action by reminding Him of His word! It is prayer from the heart. It is prayer that brings down the answer from heaven and delivers the blessings to the waiting recipients. This kind of prayer does not depend upon feeling, sight, merit or experience but on the faithfulness of God to his promise. You need to pray the prayer of faith. Do you not need such a prayer? With all the challenges that you face in your academic life dont you think you need to pray more? Think of the testimonies you will be able to share when God answers your prayers. Today is one such day in your life when you need to pray the prayer of faith. So, go right ahead and do it. It is time to pray.
Challenge: The prayer of faith does not depend on what I feel but on the faithfulness of God. Prayer: Lord, lead me in the path of the prayer of faith today and

always.

351

13th December

POOR BUT POWERFUL

Then Peter said, Silver and gold have I none; but such as I have give I thee: In the name of Jesus Christ of Nazareth rise up and walk. (Acts 3:6)

How time changes! Can you imagine a man of God like Peter telling people that he had no money? If Peter were alive today, as a leader of the church, could he still have lacked silver and gold? Apostle Peter could be poor in money matters, but there is no doubt he was a very wealthy man. Yes, Peter was rich in Jesus. Read his confession again and note the phrase such as I have give I thee. The man had the name of Jesus. Because he had the name of Jesus, he had the power of Jesus. He had the wealth of Jesus. He had the health of Jesus. He had the wisdom of Jesus. He had the ability of Jesus. He had the knowledge of Jesus. He also had the continuous fellowship of Jesus. No doubt about it, Peter was not poor at all! He had everything that he needed through Jesus. You too can have Jesus as your Lord and Savior today. When you do that, then you have His power, wealth, health, life and presence; just like Peter had. To have Jesus is to have everything that you need. Praise the Lord!
Challenge: Jesus is Lord of all. Prayer: Open my eyes dear Father so that I can understand that

Jesus is all to me.

352

14th December

HAVE YOU PRAISED GOD TODAY?

Moreover Hezekiah the king and the princes commanded the Levites to sing praise unto the LORD with the words of David, and of Asaph the seer. And they sang praises with gladness, and they bowed their heads and worshipped. (2 Chronicles 29:30)

There is always a good reason to praise the Lord. There are always lots of reasons to praise the Lord. Imagine Hezekiah leading and challenging the Levites to praise God. He was doing a good thing because he had good reasons to praise the Lord. Remember, he was the king, and somebody else could have been the king but for the grace of God. David excelled in praising God because he never forgot his humble birth. He had reasons to praise God. What about you? Surely you have many reasons to praise the Lord. Your birth, your education, your good health and even your school are some of the reasons to praise the Lord. And if you are short of words and you dont know what to say then borrow the words of David like the Levites did in the time of Hezekiah. We are told that Hezekiah the king and the princes commanded the Levites to sing praise unto the LORD with the words of David, and of Asaph the seer. So the Levites never ran short of words as they praised the Lord with gladness. You can do what the priests did. You too can praise the Lord and do it with joy. And when you dont know what to say, take your bible and read the psalms. Before this day is over, set time apart and spend some time also to praise the Lord. The more you praise Him, the more reasons you will have to praise Him still.
Challenge: True children of God are never ashamed to worship and

praise their king.

Prayer: Thou art worthy O Lord to receive glory, honor and power.

353

15th December

THE LIGHT IN YOU

Take heed therefore that the light which is in thee be not darkness. (Luke 11:35)

It is possible you might not have known that there is light in you. Jesus, the light of the world knows everything there is about lights, and has conrmed that there is light in you. Of course, it is true. For instance, you have the light of education, that enabled you to read this devotional book. There is the light of the gospel too, which you have heard at dierent times before now. If you are born again, then you have the Light of the world Himself living in you. There is also the light of the body, which is your eyes. These type of lights are in you and Jesus wants you to take care lest the light be quenched. You are aware of how easily the light of a candle can be put out. It is only a matter of time before every light can be quenched if not properly taken care of . The question is what can we do to keep our lights burning? Prophet Isaiah gave us a clue. He said Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee. (Isaiah 60:1) The instruction then is clear. Arise. Shine. May you nd grace to rise and shine this day in Jesus name.
Challenge: There is not enough darkness enough in the whole world

to put out the light of one little candle. Epitaph

Prayer: This little light of mine. I will let it shine in Jesus name.

354

16th December

LITTLE IS MUCH WITH GOD

There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many? (John 6:9)

The good and kindness you show to someone or group of people today can go a long way in meeting needs of people. Dont refuse to be generous. The unnamed boy who followed Jesus could have kept his food to himself. He could have ignored the announcement concerning needs and ate his lunch alone. After all , he might not be the only boy with uneaten packed lunch! But he was dierent. He gave his little and in the process, become a boy to be remembered for ever. Though, his name was not given in the Bible yet he is remembered in the courts of heaven. His rewards and blessings will be many before God. Like this nameless lad, you too will be a giver today. You will give to the work of the Lord. You will give heartily, you will give your all and you will give freely. You will give your life and you will give your resources. You will also live to see the fruit of giving. The harvest is always greater than the seed, therefore your giving will produce a bountiful harvest that will gladden your heart and that of those who love and appreciate you in Jesus name. And never mind if all that you can give seem so little. Remember that song: Little is much when God is in it. God will take your little gift and multiply it to bless the world. And apart from enjoying the multiplied eect of your gift, you will have stories and testimonies to share about your giving at the end of the day. After all, the nameless boy eventually returned home. You can imagine what he would have told his parents on that day about the ve loaves and two shes that fed thousands.
Challenge: Givers never lack. Prayer: Lord, please, give me the right attitude to give for Your work

and Your cause today.

355

17th December

DO GOOD TO ALL MEN

As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith. (Galatians 6:10)

Human beings are social beings. God made us to live together and benet from mutual interactions. No one can live in isolation and be fullling in life. As you need the help and assistance of others on most aspects of your life, others need yours too. What you give to others is always an investment that will yield bountiful result in your life tomorrow. There is always a good you can do for a colleague around you if you care to take note. Somebody needs your help. The seed of good deeds sown in the life of a friend today will yield multiples of fruits tomorrow. You can be a blessing to all who come your way today. As you pray this morning, commune with God to help you to sow the seed of godliness into the lives of people around you. Prepare yourself to lend a helping hand to those who need material provisions and the sick that need healing. You words of encouragement can lift up those who failed and your advice can make a dierence to the lost. You can always be a source of blessing to other students in your school. You have a great opportunity to serve others by saying or doing things to make them happier in life than you meet them. It is an investment that pays in life and in heaven.
Challenge: Somebody needs your help. Prayer: Heavenly Father, help me to do good to others today.

356

18th December

JUST SAY NO
My son, if sinners entice thee, consent thou not. (Proverbs 1:10)

Yes and no are the most important words that you will ever say in your life. These two words determine your destiny in life. The words you utter at a point in time depends on who is talking to you. Adam and Eve said Yes to Satan and they were driven out of Eden. Joseph said no to the temptress and went to prison a direct route that took him to the palace. Moses said yes to God and a deliverer was born. Whereas Pharaoh said no to God and he perished with his horsemen in the Red Sea. As you go through life. Satan will play on you the same old tricks he played on Christ. He will bring those dazzling sights and the tempting sounds. He will give you loud but empty promises of pleasure, popularity, fortune and fame. But, O youth of God say no. Dont yield to his tricks nor consider his poison. Like Jesus, just say no. Dont negotiate and dont argue Just say no. Dont let the devil lay out all his proposals to you before you quickly cut him short with a rm no. He may come to you in form of a friend, a classmate, an acquaintance or even a family member. Once you know it is the devil, then you know that he has nothing good to oer you. Say no to temptation. Say it convincingly, conclusively and continually. Say no by eeing like Joseph, if you must. Or you say no by going hungry like Daniel, if you must. By all means and at all times, when you are tempted, O dear boys and girls, say No.
Challenge: Dare to say No even if you have to say it alone. Prayer:

Lord, strengthen me in the inner man to stay rm against Satans temptations.

357

19th December

YOUR REDEMPTION RIGHT

But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed. (Isaiah 53:5)

The law does not permit inicting punishment on the children for the oences for which their father has been punished. Even where there has been a wrong accusation, the oender or his ospring cannot be punished anymore for the same oence for which he had been convicted. As far as that particular crime or oence is concerned, he is forever free from its eects. Similarly, Jesus has paid the price for our crimes and oences. His death on the cross brought redemption from sin and sicknesses. Healing and good health are parts of the benets of your sonship in Christ. It is your right to be healed from every sickness and disease and to enjoy good health. Remember, Himself took our inrmities, and bare our sickness (Matthew 8:17). Gods promises have never changed. God declares I will take sickness away from the midst of thee I am the Lord that healeth thee (Exodus 23:25; 15:26). Jesus suered for your sins and sicknesses on the cross so that you will be free. It is your turn today to receive healing from any form of inrmity. This is Gods will for you. Sickness and illhealth are not your portion in Christ. Today is your day of healing, and the beginning of perpetual good health. Ask God now for your redemption right in Christ.
Challenge: You are free indeed.

today.

Prayer: Heavenly Father fulll your healing covenant in my life

358

20th December

PRAISE THE LORD!

Praise ye the LORD. Praise the LORD, O my soul. (Psalms 146:1)

Praise the Lord! Praise is part of our worship and oerings. Our worship and praise time is exceedingly important. It prepares our ground for whatever we want to do spiritually. Praise is good and comely. It is mandatory. The bible instructs us to Praise the LORD; for the LORD is good: sing praises unto his name; for it is pleasant. (Psalms 135:3) When we worship and praise God, we are not reminding Him of who He is because He has not forgotten who He is, but we sometimes forget that worship and praise reminds us who God is. He has always been God, and will always be. That rearmation that we receive through praise gives us great stability, soundness and condence. The more we praise Him , the more we know Him. The more we know Him, the more we want to praise Him. Praise ye the Lord! Think about this. Why do many kings in the Bible like so much to praise the Lord? David was a king who excelled in praising God. Hezekiah was another king who recognized God as his superior king. You too must recognize God as King of kings and Lord of Lords. He is worthy of your worship today. You too much join the praise band.
Challenge: The occupation of heaven is praise. Maseeld Prayer: Thank You Lord for being such a good God. You are worthy to be praised. Thank You Lord.

359

21st December

IMPOSSIBLE IS POSSIBLE
But the men that went up with him said, We be not able to go up against the people; for they are stronger than we. (Numbers 13:31)

Several years ago in the days of horse-drawn carriages, some people concerned about public safety in America criticized the idea of a train that would travel at 27 miles per hour. They felt that the breakneck speed would make the travelers sick. Besides, the cost in terms of farmlands that would be lost to the rail tracks was too much! The verdict? Impossible. Today, the American express trains travel at a speeds of up to 300 kilometers per hour and the Americans are the better for it. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. You should never allow impossibility on your life because such thinking never produced an achiever. Believe that with God all things are possible. Remember also that to him that believes nothing is impossible. Change your thinking about those so-called impossible subjects. Believe that your assigned duties are not impossible. Then you will see that the impossibility was not real after all, it was only in your mind. The spies that went to Canaan returned with fruits of the land after 40 days. They were not caught by the giants but were defeated by their fears. Their fear turned their testimony into tears and turned their stories of success to failure. You will not be like them. You will say with Jesus all things are possible
Challenge: God can; and I can, if I believe in Him. Prayer: Rid me, dear Lord, of all impossibility thinking today.

360

22nd December

A NEW NAME FOR YOU

And God said unto him, Thy name is Jacob: thy name shall not be called any more Jacob, but Israel shall be thy name: and he called his name Israel. (Genesis 35:10)

A name is a means of identication. But it can also be a symbol of power and great authority. Sometimes, a name may come to be associated with fame and sometimes with shame. How many people have you heard bearing Judas, or Cain or even Lucifer? These names are associated with evils and so nobody wants to bear them. However, names can be acquired either by birth or by character. Jacob had a name, a bad name because it reected his dark character before God met and changed him. Whereas Isaac got his name before birth and didnt have any need to change it later. What is your name? People can call you John or Joseph, Tessy or Tina, but what is your real name? You may, like Jacob, have lived all your youthful life under the name of a thief, a bully, a thug, a cultist or even a failure. Do you know that you can have a namechange? Oh yes, you can. Simply repent of your past sin before God. Ask Him to forgive you and give you a new heart, a new life, a new character. He will and youll be the better for it.
Challenge: I would rather live out a good name than merely bear Prayer: Change my heart, O God, and my name too.

one.

361

23rd December

THANK YOU JESUS

And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry. (1 Timothy 1:12)

To give thanks is normal and natural. We thank our parents when they pay our school fees or buy us new dresses. We say thank you to our friends too when they do us some favor. God wants us to be thankful. To be unthankful is an evidence of wickedness and is one sign of the latter days referred to in the Bible (2 Timothy 3:1,2). We must therefore, give thanks to God every day for His goodness and wonderful works in our lives. Paul the apostle was fond of giving thanks to God. In his epistle to the Ephesians believers, he said Giving thanks always for all things unto God and Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ (Ephesians 5:20). Take a moment to think about your life your birth, your upbringing, your body, the food you eat, the water you drink, the air you breath in, the chain is endless. Can you say thank you Jesus! for them? Say this loud and clear every day of your life. Thank Him for the salvation of your soul, if you are saved. Thank Him for the gift of life. Thank Him for your father, mother, brothers, and sisters. Thank Jesus for your country, your school, your church, your pastor, your friends and others. Thank Him everywhere, every time and for everything. Give thanks to Jesus the Giver of life and every good gift. Thank Him for ever and ever. Jesus is worth more than the thanks we can oer.
Challenge: Thank You Jesus! Have you said that today? Prayer: Receive my oering of praise O Lord, my Father.

362

24th December

TRULY GOD IS GOOD

Truly God is good to Israel, even to such as are of a clean heart. (Psalms 73:1)

If man will sincerely consider the attributes of God and believe in them, he will have nothing to worry about. God is loving, kind, faithful, merciful and compassionate. Our God is also holy, righteous, just, omnipotent, omniscience and omnipresent. Man cannot exhaust all the attributes of the only wise God who is great, glorious, gracious, and good. Truly, God is good to Israel His people. If you will faithfully consider the goodness of God to you, your parents and family members, you may say with the Psalmist, Truly, God is good O taste and see that the Lord is good: blessed is the man that trusteth in him (Psalm 34:8). Whatever might have been your experience in life; your trust in God will bring the victory you need. Prophet Nahum says, The Lord is good, a strong hold in the day of trouble; and he knoweth them that trust in him (Nahum 1:7). God is good to the Christian youths who fear and trust Him in their daily endeavors. Do you also realize that God is good to you? He is the source of your life, the great Provider and the All-Sucient One. It is through his goodness that we are enjoying all we have today. This is why we say that God is good and His mercy endures forever. Amen and amen.
Challenge: Trust in God for He is good to all.

more.

Prayer: Help me Oh God to appreciate your goodness and trust you

363

25th December

A STEADFAST LOOK
Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God. (Hebrews 12:2)

Life is full of challenges. These challenges are varied with individuals. For some, the challenges are how to overcome a peculiar sin. For another, it is how to meet a particular need while for others it may be how to be healed and remain healthy. Many other challenges abound such as how to overcome strong and as subtle temptations. However, there is a time-tested solution to whatever challenge you may face. That is to look unto Jesus in every situation. Whatever the challenge you may face look unto Jesus. To overcome a peculiar sin look unto Jesus. Looking to Jesus in repentance and faith cleanses and delivers from the power of sin. If the challenge is how to meet a particular need look unto Jesus. But my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19. He is the means through which the riches of God would be made available to meet all your needs. If your challenge is how to be healed and remain healthy, then look unto Jesus. for I am the LORD that healeth thee. Exodus 15:26. If the challenge is how to overcome temptations then, look unto Jesus Wherefore he is able also to save them to the uttermost that come unto God by him, seeing he ever liveth to make intercession for them Hebrews 7:25. Whatever the need and at anytime, anywhere, look unto Jesus and He will see you through.
Challenge: I will focus my attention always on Jesus. Prayer: Lord, strengthen me as I look steadfastly unto You.

364

26th December

FEAR THOU NOT

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. (Isaiah 41:10)

We all fear dierent things. What we fear varies from person to person. Some fear darkness, others height. Many fear snake others night. The sight of a large pool of water may make some to fear while some may even be frightened by a crowd of people. Dont be surprised to hear of young people like you who are afraid of the future. Such youths are always anxious of tomorrow and they are often tormented by fear I John 4:18. Fear is false experience appearing real. Most times, what we fear would never come true. Fear is like a mirage that appears real but is not. It is the work of the enemy of your soul to make you fear. The enemy makes you imagine a false experience that appears real so as to make you afraid. Fear is also forgetting everything and run. Fear makes youths to run. It makes you to forget the word of God, the promises of God, the power of God, the protection of God and your rights in the kingdom. Should a believer run away from the devil? No! The torment of fear will neither allow some youths to sleep in the night nor rest in the day. They run from pillar to pole, seeking refuge. Todays text provides you a refuge in God. A life entrusted into Gods hand is safe and sacred. Give your life to Jesus today and make God your refuge.( Psalm 91:1,2) He will deliver you from all fears.
Challenge: Fear thou not for I am thy God. Prayer: Deliver me from fear, Oh God and grant me rest and safety under your shadow.

365

27th December

USE IT
.for there is no restraint to the LORD to save by many or by few. (1 Samuel 14:6)

Many people have the idea that it is necessary to be endowed with many talents and gifts before one can make a successful life. They are therefore pre-occupied with how to acquire more talents in order to realize their dreams. But God works with what He has given to us in order to accomplish His purpose in our lives. We do not need additional brain to think properly, another eye to see clearly or additional feet to stand more rmly. We only need to use what we have more creatively. It is often said that it is seldom the lack of resources that limit people but lack of resourcefulness. We limit God when we bury the talent that we have because we think that we need more in order to be successful. We limit God when we think we cannot excel because we are in a particular profession rather than the other. You may also be limiting God by thinking that you will not be your best because of your peculiar problems. But you must get out of that circle this morning. God is not limited and you must not be limited in your situation. Use what you have and you will see God in action. Do not wait further, star right now. Believe Him and see wonders.
Challenge: Little is much with God. Prayer: Lord help me to see you as unlimited God in my life today.

366

28th December

THE TRIAL OF FAITH

But he answered her not a word. (Matthew 15:23)

Have you ever wondered why a seed planted in the soil does not immediately germinate and grow up the same moment you planted it? You may also have thought on why a woman had to carry her pregnancy for nine months before delivering a well formed baby. Why not only for two weeks? The truth in all these clearly show us why answers to prayers are sometimes delayed. The fact is that when a believer in the Lord Jesus Christ prays or asks for anything in prayer, God immediately hears. Delayed visible answers to our prayers are to make us persevere in true faith and to trust God in all circumstances and remain true to Him even when we are in great trouble. the trial of your faith ,being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with re, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ. The Lord is teaching us today to persevere. Good and precious things are hard to come by. Answer to prayer for a particular need in your life may be delayed while answers to some come just like that. Know today that our God does not change; He will answer your prayers, just like He did for the woman in the text today.
Challenge: Delay is not denial. Prayer: Lord, give me grace to persevere till I receive.

367

29th December

LIPS CONTROL
The lips of the righteous know what is acceptable:.. (Proverbs 10:32)

To be successful, you must eliminate gossip from your vocabulary. Taking an axe and chopping up your neighbors furniture will not make your furniture better. If you do not have a good thing to say about a person, then say nothing. Self-control is an essential attitude and characteristic for a leader. The control of the tongue is very important. You can test if you love gossip by answering the following:

Do I spread rumors about other people? Do I always have good things to say about others? Do I like to hear reports of a scandal? Do I encourage others to bring their rumors to me? Do I start conversation with dont tell anybody? Do I keep or leak condential information? Do I feel guilty about what I say concerning others?

If your answers to the above are yes then you must ask the Lord to change you. Ask the Lord to take control of your lips. Ask for grace to say things that are positive, edifying, uplifting appreciative and wholesome. Speak no evil of someone in his or her absence. Also, learn only to say what God has said concerning you and your situation in life.
Challenge: What you say is what you are. Prayer: Set a watch over my mouth O Lord.

368

30th December

GOOD FOR EVIL

"But as for you, ye thought evil against me; but God meant it unto good. I will nourish you, and your little ones .And he comforted them, and spoke kindly unto them (Genesis 50:20,21)

The elder brothers have hurt Joseph very deeply: they had done evil to him. Joseph had a choice to make; he could either allow their cruelty to make him bitter or better, to make him angry or an angel. He chose the second options, as revealed in his speech to his brothers. Perhaps someone oended you sometimes ago ,say, yesterday, what have you done with the hurt?. Have you nursed it to the extent that it has grown into bitterness and resentment, or even murderous hatred? Have you turned it into a balm that you rub on you mind every day?. That way, you do yourself more harm than even the oence itself. But there is a more excellent way, the way of forgiveness. You can pray to God to give you the grace to totally forgive those who oended you and replace hurt with loving and joyful disposition. Remember: Dont nurse your hurts Dont rehearse you hurts Dont curse hurts But reverse your hurts Because hurts will make you Bitter or better
Challenge: Past hurts can hinder future happiness. Prayer: Help me Lord to return good for evil.

369

31st December

SMALL BEGINNING, GREAT ENDING

Though thy beginning was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase. (Job 8:7)

Isnt it interesting that we all began our lives here on earth as babes? We started as infants, completely dependent on our parents. Then we begin to sit. crawl, stand, walk and eventually run. Thats how God made us . Our beginning was small. But thank God our life did not end in infancy. We grew and increased. That is the message from God for us this morning. Do not be afraid of small beginnings. One step after another, then the longest journey is ended. Victory is won not in miles but in inches, says a writer. He says further that you win a little now, hold your ground, and later win a lot more. Prudence demands that you be at your best each moment you take steps, even small ones. Courage to attempt greater tasks is received each time you tackle small ones successfully. You must have noticed that the rungs of a ladder, however tall, graduate from the lowest to the highest. You can only climb to its maximum height from the bottom, stepping on the rungs in turns. Dont try to jump the steps. Small steps can be great secrets to success. Get excited as you make progress (however small) on your way and move forward with enthusiasm. Small tasks handled are far better than great ones untried. It is better to do something, no matter how small, than to do nothing on great ideas. Get started to take steps towards excellence. Standing still will take you nowhere.
Challenge: Despise not the day of small things (Zechariah 4:10). Prayer: Help me heavenly Father, to strive manfully for success as I take a step at a time.

370

One Year Bible Reading Plan

1 Genesis 1-3 2 Genesis 4-6 3 Genesis 7-9 4 Genesis 10-12 5 Genesis 13-16 6 Genesis 17-19 7 Genesis 20-22 8 Genesis 23-25 9 Genesis 26-29 10 Genesis 30-32 11 Genesis 33-35 12 Genesis 36-38 13 Genesis 39-42 14 Genesis 43-45 15 Genesis 46-48 16 Genesis 49-50 Exodus 1 17 Exodus 2-5 18 Exodus 6-8 19 Exodus 9-11 20 Exodus 12-14 21 Exodus 15-18 22 Exodus 19-21 23 Exodus 22-24 24 Exodus 25-27 25 Exodus 28-31 26 Exodus 32-34 27 Exodus 35-37 28 Exodus 38-40 29 Leviticus 1-4 30 Leviticus 5-7 31 Leviticus 8-10

January (Put each day after reading)

1 2 3 4 5 6

Leviticus 11-13 Leviticus 14-17 Leviticus 18-20 Leviticus 21-23 Leviticus 24-26 Leviticus 27 Numbers 1-3 7 Numbers 4-6 8 Numbers 7-9 9 Numbers 10-12 10 Numbers 13-16 11 Numbers 17-19 12 Numbers 20-22 13 Numbers 23-25

February (Put each day after reading)

14 Numbers 26-29 15 Numbers 30-32 16 Numbers 33-35 17 Numbers 36 Deuteronomy 1-2 18 Deuteronomy 3-6 19 Deuteronomy 7-9 20 Deuteronomy 10-12 21 Deuteronomy 13-15 22 Deuteronomy 16-19 23 Deuteronomy 20-22 24 Deuteronomy 23-25 25 Deuteronomy 26-28 26 Deuteronomy 29-32 27 Deuteronomy 33-34 Joshua 1 28 Joshua 2-4 29 Joshua 5-7

1 Joshua 8-11 2 Joshua 12-14 3 Joshua 15-17 4 Joshua 18-20 5 Joshua 21-24 6 Judges 1-3 7 Judges 4-6 8 Judges 7-9 9 Judges 10-13 10 Judges 14-16 11 Judges 17-19 12 Judges 20-21, Ruth 1 13 Ruth 2-4, 1 Samuel 1 14 1 Samuel 2-4 15 1 Samuel 5-7 16 1 Samuel 8-10 17 1 Samuel 11-14 18 1 Samuel 15-17 19 1 Samuel 18-20 20 1 Samuel 21-23 21 1 Samuel 24-27 22 1 Samuel 28-30 23 1 Samuel 31, 2 Samuel 1-2 24 2 Samuel 3-5 25 2 Samuel 6-9 26 2 Samuel 10-12 27 2 Samuel 13-15 28 2 Samuel 16-18 29 2 Samuel 19-22 30 2 Samuel 23-24 1 Kings 1 31 1 Kings 2-4

March (Put each day after reading)

1 1 Kings 5-7 2 1 Kings 8-11 3 1 Kings 12-14 4 1 Kings 15-17 5 1 Kings 18-20 6 1 Kings 21-22, 2 Kings 1-2 7 2 Kings 3-5 8 2 Kings 6-8 9 2 Kings 9-11 10 2 Kings 12-15 11 2 Kings 16-18 12 2 Kings 19-21 13 2 Kings 22-24 14 2 Kings 25, 1 Chronicles 1-3 15 1 Chronicles 4-6 16 1 Chronicles 7-9 17 1 Chronicles 10-12 18 1 Chronicles 13-16 19 1 Chronicles 17-19 20 1 Chronicles 20-22 21 1 Chronicles 23-25 22 1 Chronicles 26-29 23 2 Chronicles 1-3 24 2 Chronicles 4-6 25 2 Chronicles 7-9 26 2 Chronicles 10-13 27 2 Chronicles 14-16 28 2 Chronicles 17-19 29 2 Chronicles 20-22 30 2 Chronicles 23-26

April (Put each day after reading)

1 2 Chronicles 27-29 2 2 Chronicles 30-32 3 2 Chronicles 33-35 4 2 Chronicles 36 Ezra 1-3 5 Ezra 4-6 6 Ezra 7-9 7 Ezra 10 Nehemiah 1-2 8 Nehemiah 3-6 9 Nehemiah 7-9 10 Nehemiah 10-12 11 Nehemiah 13 Esther 1-2 12 Esther 3-6 13 Esther 7-9 14 Esther 10 Job 1-2 15 Job 3-5 16 Job 6-9 17 Job 10-12 18 Job 13-15 19 Job 16-18 20 Job 19-22 21 Job 23-25 22 Job 26-28 23 Job 29-31 24 Job 32-35 25 Job 36-38 26 Job 39-41 27 Job 42, Psalms 1-2 28 Psalms 3-6 29 Psalms 7-9 30 Psalms 10-12 31 Psalms 13-15

May (Put each day after reading)

1 Psalms 16-19 2 Psalms 20-22 3 Psalms 23-25 4 Psalms 26-28 5 Psalms 29-32 6 Psalms 33-35 7 Psalms 36-38 8 Psalms 39-41 9 Psalms 42-45 10 Psalms 46-48 11 Psalms 49-51 12 Psalms 52-54 13 Psalms 55-58 14 Psalms 59-61 15 Psalms 62-64 16 Psalms 65-67 17 Psalms 68-71 18 Psalms 72-74 19 Psalms 75-77 20 Psalms 78-80 21 Psalms 81-84 22 Psalms 85-87 23 Psalms 88-90 24 Psalms 91-93 25 Psalms 94-97 26 Psalms 98-100 27 Psalms 101-103 28 Psalms 104-106 29 Psalms 107-110 30 Psalms 111-113

June (Put each day after reading)

1 Psalms 114-116 2 Psalms 117-119 3 Psalms 120-122 4 Psalms 123-126 5 Psalms 127-129 6 Psalms 130-132 7 Psalms 133-135 8 Psalms 136-139 9 Psalms 140-142 10 Psalms 143-145 11 Psalms 146-148 12 Psalms 149-150 Proverb 1-2 13 Proverb 3-5 14 Proverb 6-8 15 Proverb 9-11 16 Proverb 12-15 17 Proverb 16-18 18 Proverb 19-21 19 Proverb 22-24 20 Proverb 25-28 21 Proverb 29-31 22 Ecclesiastes 1-3 23 Ecclesiastes 4-6 24 Ecclesiastes 7-10 25 Ecclesiastes 11-12 Song 1 26 Song 2-4 27 Song 5-7 28 Song 8 Isaiah 1-3 29 Isaiah 4-6 30 Isaiah 7-9 31 Isaiah 10-12

July (Put each day after reading)

1 Isaiah 13-16 2 Isaiah 17-19 3 Isaiah 20-22 4 Isaiah 23-25 5 Isaiah 26-29 6 Isaiah 30-32 7 Isaiah 33-35 8 Isaiah 36-38 9 Isaiah 39-42 10 Isaiah 43-45 11 Isaiah 46-48 12 Isaiah 49-51 13 Isaiah 52-55 14 Isaiah 56-58 15 Isaiah 59-61 16 Isaiah 62-64 17 Isaiah 65-66 Jeremiah 1-2 18 Jeremiah 3-5 19 Jeremiah 6-8 20 Jeremiah 9-11 21 Jeremiah 12-15 22 Jeremiah 16-18 23 Jeremiah 19-21 24 Jeremiah 22-24 25 Jeremiah 25-28 26 Jeremiah 29-31 27 Jeremiah 32-34 28 Jeremiah 35-37 29 Jeremiah 38-41 30 Jeremiah 42-44 31 Jeremiah 45-47

August (Put each day after reading)

1 Jeremiah 48-50 2 Jeremiah 51-52 Lam 1-2 3 Lamentation 3-5 4 Ezekiel 1-3 5 Ezekiel 4-6 6 Ezekiel 7-10 7 Ezekiel 11-13 8 Ezekiel 14-16 9 Ezekiel 17-19 10 Ezekiel 20-23 11 Ezekiel 24-26 12 Ezekiel 27-29 13 Ezekiel 30-32 14 Ezekiel 33-36 15 Ezekiel 37-39 16 Ezekiel 40-42 17 Ezekiel 43-45 18 Ezekiel 46-48, Daniel 1 19 Daniel 2-4 20 Daniel 5-7 21 Daniel 8-10 22 Daniel 11-12, Hosea 1-2 23 Hosea 3-5 24 Hosea 6-8 25 Hosea 9-11 26 Hosea 12-14 Joel 1 27 Joel 2-3 Amos 1 28 Amos 2-4 29 Amos 5-7 30 Amos 8-9 Obadiah 1 Jonah 1

September (Put each day after reading)

1 Jonah 2-4 2 Micah 1-3 3 Micah 4-6 4 Micah 7, Nahum 1-3 5 Habakkuk 1-3 6 Zephaniah 1-3 7 Hag 1-2 Zechariah 1 8 Zechariah 2-5 9 Zechariah 6-8 10 Zechariah 9-11 11 Zechariah 12-14 12 Malachi 1-4 13 Matthew 1-3 14 Matthew 4-6 15 Matthew 7-9 16 Matthew 10-13 17 Matthew 14-16 18 Matthew 17-19 19 Matthew 20-22 20 Matthew 23-26 21 Matthew 27-28 Mark 1 22 Mark 2-4 23 Mark 5-7 24 Mark 8-11 25 Mark 12-14 26 Mark 15-16 Luke 1 27 Luke 2-4 28 Luke 5-8 29 Luke 9-11 30 Luke 12-14 31 Luke 15-17

October (Put each day after reading)

1 Luke 18-21 2 Luke 22-24 3 John 1-3 4 John 4-6 5 John 7-10 6 John 11-13 7 John 14-16 8 John 17-19 9 John 20-21, Acts 1-2 10 Acts 3-5 11 Acts 6-8 12 Acts 9-11 13 Acts 12-15 14 Acts 16-18 15 Acts 19-21 16 Acts 22-24 17 Acts 25-28 18 Romans 1-3 19 Romans 4-6 20 Romans 7-9 21 Romans 10-13 22 Romans 14-16 23 1 Corinthians 1-3 24 1 Corinthians 4-6 25 1 Corinthians 7-10 26 1 Corinthians 11-13 27 1 Corinthians 14-16 28 2 Corinthians 1-3 29 2 Corinthians 4-7 30 2 Corinthians 8-10

November (Put each day after reading)

2 Corinthians 11-13 2 Galatians 1-3 3 Galatians 4-6, Ephesians 1 4 Ephesians 2-4 5 Ephesians 5-6, Phil 1 6 Phil 2-4 7 Colossians 1-4 8 1 Thessalonians 1-3 9 1 Thessalonians 4-5 2 Thess. 1 10 2 Thessalonians 2-3, 1 Timothy 1 11 1 Timothy 2-5 12 1 Timothy 6, 2 Timothy 1-2 13 2 Timothy 3-4 Titus 1 14 Titus 2-3, Philemon 1 15 Hebrews 1-4 16 Hebrews 5-7 17 Hebrews 8-10 18 Hebrews 11-13 19 James 1-4 20 James 5, 1 Peter 1-2 21 1 Peter 3-5 22 2 Peter 1-3 23 1 John 1-4 24 1 John 5, 2 John 1, 3 John 1 25 Jude 1, Revelation 1-2 26 Revelation 3-5 27 Revelation 6-9 28 Revelation 10-12 29 Revelation 13-15 30 Revelation 16-18 31 Revelation 19-22

December (Put each day after reading) 1