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Billy Graham’s Daily 3 January 2018 Devotional: A Simple Message

Topic: A Simple Message [Wednesday January 3, 2018]

As the Father hath loved me, so have I loved you: continue ye in my love. — John 15:9

The great Swiss theologian, Dr. Karl Barth, was probably in his generation the greatest theologian in the world, and a great philosopher as well. I did not always agree with him, but he was my friend and I respected him. While he was in this country, a student at one of the seminaries said, “Dr. Barth, what is the greatest truth that ever crossed your mind?” All the seminary students were sitting on the edge of their seats to hear some great, profound, deep, complicated answer. Dr. Barth slowly raised his great shaggy gray head and looked at the student and said, “Jesus loves me, this I know, for the Bible tells me so.”

Prayer for the day: Lord Jesus, may I always keep the knowledge of Your love in true simplicity—unencumbered by much learning. Thank You for loving me.

Written by Billy Graham, Founder of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association(BGEA). BGEA exists to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ by every effective means and to equip the church and others to do the same.

Andrew Wommack’s Daily 3 January 2018 Devotional: About Genealogies

Topic: About Genealogies [Wednesday January 3, 2018]

Luke 3:23, "And Jesus himself began to be about thirty years of age, being (as was supposed) the son of Joseph, which was the son of Heli."

Text: Matthew 1:1-17; Luke 3:23-38

Even the genealogies are inspired by God and profitable (2 Tim. 3:16). Matthew traces Jesus' genealogy through Joseph back to Solomon. However, there was a curse placed on one of Solomon's sons named Jechonias (Jer. 22:24-30), which Jesus avoided by being born of a virgin.

Luke mentions Jesus as being the supposed son of Joseph who was the son of Heli. It was actually Mary who was the daughter of Heli. This was done in other Old Testament instances (Num. 27:1-11; 36:12 with Ruth 4:6). Mary's genealogy was also from David but through Nathan, a half brother of Solomon. Thus the lineage was preserved but the curse bypassed.

These genealogies show the infinite wisdom of God in fulfilling His promises despite the corruption of man. In fact these genealogies are full of murderers, adulterers, and every sort of pervert know to man, and yet these same people were used of God, not because of their actions but in spite of them. This means there is still hope for us.

God has never had anyone qualified working for Him yet and we won't be the first. The history of God's dealings with man reveal that He has always used less than perfect vessels. We can rejoice and take comfort in the fact that God uses us because of our faith and not our holiness.

This message was written by The Association of Related Ministries International (ARMI) is an extension of Andrew Wommack Ministries (AWM). ARMI is a unique partnership committed to providing resources to help like-minded ministers succeed in a spirit of excellence and to draw from the experience and expertise of both the AWM and Charis Bible College staff. (www.awmi.net).

Topic: Gather Knowledge First! [Wednesday, January 3, 2018]

Basic scripture: proverbs 24:1-10

Years ago, when the terrorist group, AL QAEDA, led by the late Osama Bin Laden struck America using airplanes and killed thousands of innocent souls, REVENGE STRIKES were delayed! Yes! The USA did not seek revenge at once! This was because they had to gather information and knowledge about the enemy first! Indeed, there was a worldwide intelligence effort to fill large, missing gaps in US knowledge about those behind that terrorist attack of September 11th 2001.

The defense ministry (the pentagon) said at that time “there is nothing more important in this war than information, by whatever means we collect it. Use of military force is secondary; and begins with getting good intelligence report about people responsible, where they are and going after them and getting them running.” Did you get that? The use of force is secondary! Gathering of knowledge is first! Wow! And in this year 2018, the Holy Ghost wants you to learn from that! Collect information by whatever means about your enemies before striking in prayer, using the Word or fasting, for example! That means action is secondary to knowledge this year!

King David prophetically declared that “by knowledge shall the righteous be delivered” (proverbs 11:9). Jesus said, “ye shall know the truth and the the truth shall set you free” (John 8:32). The truth does not set you free! It is the truth You know that sets you free! The Book of books (the bible) also declares that; “by knowledge shall the righteous make war” (prov. 20:18; 24:6). Glory to god!

Stop making war out of envy or bitterness! Stop rushing into action! The 21-days fasting program will soon begin – fom January 6th-26th! Get the new war against human-13″ (wah-13) booklet and determine to gather information and knowledge on prayer direction on what the Holy Ghost is saying concerning this year! Oh! Proverbs 8:10 declares: “Receive my instruction and not silver, and knowledge rather than choice gold.” proverb 4:7 also declares: “knowledge is the principal thing…” (not prayer). I am not sending you to a Bible school, but you could use the unfailing promises and the 402 prayer points section of this booklet to fight also!

Getting knowledge (relevant scriptures and promises) before praying about my issue, is more powerful than the prayer itself! Open the scriptures in the “wah-13” booklet under every prayer section and meditate on them before praying them! Determine this year like the Americans: No information, No battle! Study and shine! This is your year! Amen!

Pray the “Prayers just before any fasting” on page 108 of “War Against Haman-13” booklet for the next 3 days.

Prayer Points: Take any song of worship as led.

1. I challenge every conspiracy of laziness planned for me this year! I shall study/seek knowledge daily! Satan, you are a liar in Jesus name! Get your wah-13 now!

2. Pray the prayer points as directed above in “wah-13” now!

By Bishop (Dr) Chris E. Kwakpovwe (Cek)
Publisher/Writer Of ODM And

Rev (Mrs) Flora E. Kwakpovwe (Fek)
Co-Publisher/Writer Of ODM.

Kenneth and Gloria Copeland’s Daily January 3, 2018 Devotional: Be a Blessing

Topic: Be a Blessing [Wednesday January 3, 2018]

Let those who favor my righteous cause and have pleasure in my uprightness shout for joy and be glad and say continually, Let the Lord be magnified, Who takes pleasure in the prosperity of His servant. - Psalm 35:27, The Amplified Bible

If traditional religion has taught you that God wants you poor and oppressed, I have good news for you today. The Bible says, "God takes pleasure" in your prosperity. God wants you to prosper!

Not just in the financial realm but in every area of your life...spirit, soul and body.

No matter where you are or who you are, God wants to see you delivered from every adverse situation.

Why? Because He loves you and He has a job for you to do. He wants you to help meet the needs of mankind and He's smart enough to know that you can't give away what you don't have. You can't give to spread the gospel or buy food for the hungry when you're broke. You can't go out laying hands on the sick when you're lying in a hospital bed. You can't minister joy to others when you're being held captive by depression. No! You have to be blessed to be a blessing.

If you really want to tap into the riches of God today, make up your mind to be a blessing to others, and before you know it, you'll be receiving more from God than you ever dreamed.

That's what happened to me. I decided years ago, first and foremost, to be a giver. I developed a lifestyle of giving. Today, I literally "live to give." And I don't mind telling you, God dumps blessings on me by the truckload!

He'll do the same for you if you'll become His servant—if you'll lay down your time and your money and your love for those who need it. Become a giver—and God will take pleasure in prospering you!

Scripture Reading: Genesis 12:1-4,Genesis 13:1-4

This message was written by Kenneth and Gloria Copeland, the leader of the Kenneth Copeland Ministries (www.KCM.org) that specializes in teaching principles of bible faith - prayer, healing, salvation and other biblical topics.

TREM’s Daily 3 January 2018 Devotional by Dr. Mike Okonkwo - Love Does Not Imagine Evil

Topic: Love Does Not Imagine Evil — Wednesday January 3, 2018.

“And let none of you imagine evil in your hearts against his neighbour; and love no false oath: for all these are things that I hate, saith the LORD.”Zechariah 8:17 (KJV)

The call to love is not new and it is not just a function of the New Testament. God did not become love in the New Testament, He has always been Love and when He made Man, He breathed into man the breath of life, in other words, being made in the image of God gave Man the capacity to walk in love.

Of course, the things changed when man fell, but God has since been calling Man back to Himself and back to a life of love. In our scripture today, God broke it down for the Children of Israel by saying don’t even imagine evil in your heart against your neighbour. As we journey into this year, God is calling us to a higher level of relationship. Don’t pick and choose who to relate to. Don’t join the company of those who pull others down with the words of their mouth. Make a quality decision to stand and walk in love. Love is the only thing that differentiates us from the world. Remember: by this shall men know that you are the disciples of Christ when you have love one for another.

In the coming days, we will look at certain characteristics of love and see what God expects of us. If we must see and experience the commanded blessing that God has in store for us, then we must walk in love.

Further Reading: Zechariah 8:16-17;

Daily Bible Reading: Morning- Gen 7-9, Mathew 3

Written by Dr. Mike Okonkwo; Is the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM); a versatile man of God with over 30 years of dedicated service unto the Lord.

The Home: An Institution For Child Training (5) by pastor Faith Oyedepo

Topic — The Home: An Institution For Child Training (5)

Dear Reader,

This week, as we round off this teaching, I will be examining The Power of Prayer in the process of child-training and Tips for Effective Child Training.

Prayer is a spiritual weapon that can be used to instill discipline in children. Prayer power makes child training easy, because it moulds them spiritually. As a Christian parent, who desires disciplined children, you must spend time to pray with and for your children daily.

The Bible says: …The effectual prayer of a righteous man availeth much (James 5:16).

Mother Wesley, the mother of John and Charles Wesley, was a woman of prayer. She spent time praying for her children. No wonder, her children were foremost among the people who changed and affected their world positively, with impacts that are still being felt today. You can also do the same because your children need prayers. Do not faint in praying for them, because prayer changes people.

If you put this tool to work, disciplining your children will become the easiest thing to do. I will like to say here that there is no way you can discipline your children if you are not disciplined yourself. It is my prayer that God will grant you grace to take responsibilities toward your children. You will not fail in Jesus’ precious name!

Some Tips for Effective Child Training

Begin to say bedtime prayers to your children at a very tender. You will be amazed how quickly they pick them up and begin to pray with you!

Help them to know Jesus as early as possible.

Read stories from children’s Bible of their age group to them. Family time of sharing Bible stories can be a wonderful experience.

Be very patient with your children.

Always build confidence in your child.

Listen to them; don’t just hear what they are Give them your attention and direct eye contact when they speak to you. Your children will let you know what challenges they have, and what you may need to bring to the Lord in intercessory prayer for them. This is such an important way to show how much you value them; and you will also teach them to pray for others.

Watch over your children diligently! Know where they are, who they associate with, what they are watching on T.V., the kind of music they are listening to. Get involved and stay involved. Train them with good Christian moral values.

Give your children responsibility early in life. Children love to “help” at a very early age. At first, they may not do things the way you want; but they grow up to be self-reliant and dependable.

Teach them to respect proper authority.

Keep control over the home! Your children must know who is in control.

Nothing delights a child more than praise from his parents. Let them know just how much you appreciate them whenever they do wonderful things.

Spend time with your children. Get down to their level and see things from their perspective. Seek to have as much family time as you can; crack jokes and laugh with them because proper humour is good for the soul (Proverbs 17:22).

Study your children to know who they really are, what they love, etc. Bring out the good whenever possible and try to re-shape any tendency towards bad behaviour. Every child is a masterpiece from God.

Keep your marriage together! Children need parents who love each other! If you grew up in a home where your parents did not get along, whether divorced or not, you have probably realised later in life the devastating results in your own personal life. However, you can overcome this.

Do not leave your children behind when going to Church or Christian gatherings at whatever age or stage. The Church is also a good institution for learning.

Do you need God’s grace in your life? Then surrender your life to Christ. This is by confessing your sins and accepting Jesus as your personal Saviour and Lord. If you are set for it, please say this prayer: Dear Lord Jesus Christ, I come to You today. I am a sinner. Forgive me my sins and cleanse me with Your Blood. I accept You as my Lord and personal Saviour. Make me a child of God today. Thank You for delivering me from sin and satan to serve the living God and thank You for accepting me into Your Kingdom.

Congratulations! If you prayed this simple prayer of faith with me, you are now born again and a child of God. He loves you and will never leave you. Read your Bible daily, obey God’s Word and seek Christian fellowship (John 14:21).

With this, you are guaranteed all-round rest and peace in Jesus’ Name! Call or write to share your testimonies with me through contact@faithoyedepo.org, 07026385437 OR 08141320204.

For more insight, these books authored by me are available at the Dominion Bookstores in all Living Faith Churches and other leading Christian bookstores: Raising Godly Children, Understanding Motherhood, Building A Successful Family and Success in Marriage (Co-Authored).

Pastor Faith Oyedepo is the wife of Bishop David Oyedepo, the founder of the Living Faith Church Worldwide a.k.a. Winners’ Chapel, and Senior Pastor of Faith Tabernacle, Canaanland, Ota, Nigeria.

For the Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries (MFM), this is A YEAR OF EXTRAORDINARY TURNAROUND.

2018 Anchor Scripture: Psalm 110 vs 1, Gal 6 vs 9. Luke 10 vs 19

A year when bondage is repackaged and reloaded
A year where the pestle will defeat the mortar
A year of spiritual counter-attack
A year when there will be terrible attacks on marriages
A year of wild and merciless attack by very strange infirmities
A year when spiritual weaknesses will be a tragedy
A year of fight or perish
A year of deliverance from long term bondage
A year of demostration of the raw power of God
A year when God will kill rebellious kings and leaders
A year when many this year, if they will listen to advice given out, will overcome their generational bondages
A tragic year for those with Absalom spirit
A year of the disgrace of the strongman of terror and fear
A year when the wrath from Heaven will rise to the brim against shamelessness and sexually perverse nations and leaders
A year when many who will live a holy life will be empowered this year to rewrite their family history
A tragic year for Ahitophel and Gehazi ministers
A year when plenty of yokes of barrenness will be broken
A year when the wasting powers, already planted into the lives of young people, manifest this year if they don't change
A very rough year for modern day Jonahs
A year of double left leg and a year where the animal will pursue the hunter
A year that you can call the wind-blowing year. A year of madness of the wind
A year of masquerading captivity
A year when regular practice of personal delivernace will yield dividends
A year when laziness in prayer will cause harvoc
A year of stings from strange insects
A year where God will stretch his rod of judgement againt nations who are against God
A year where the acidic rage of generational bondages will fully manifest due to the wrong teachings they are teaching the young ones
A year when God will raise up uncompromising agents of redemption and deliverance
A year of massive disgrace of all forms of disloyalty
A year when terror will swallow terror and vomit poison
A year when serious prayers will be needed aganist the rage of scientific witchcraft
A very rough year to those giving to alcohol. Stop drinking if you are drinking.
A year of the TEN Rs: Revelation, revolutions, restorations, renewal, revival, rightousness, recovery, reorientation, refreshment and remembrance
A year where you must learn to cast your net on the right hand side, so you can catch the right fish
A year of great fall for those engaged in practise and cover-up of corruption
A year of manifestation of divine suddenlies, both for blessings and judgement
A year of strange changes and shifts, both physical and spiritual
Unless we pray really hard, the global economy downturn, terror attacks, political turmoil, environmental catastrophe will continue
A year where God will raise up some radical prophetesses who will set many places ablaze for God
A year where there is a rage of emptiers and wasters for the rebellious particularly the youth
A year of horrible disgrace for those who deal with hard drugs and live a carefree life
A year that those who bank with God shall reap great dividends on every side
A year when discernment is highly essential. A year where personal spiritual development is not a luxury, but a necessity.
A year of political confusion and personalities working against the peace of this nation shall fight and destroy themselves

HOW DOES ONE COPE WITH A YEAR LIKE THIS?

We need to get ourselves keyed into what the bible calls the fruit of the spirit (Love, Joy, Peace, Longsuffering, Gentleness, Goodness, Faith, Meekness, Temperance). These fruits of the spirit are needed for divine acceleration and for breakthrough this year
Obedience
Faith
A right heart
Worship and prayer

Our year is anchored on these scripture: Psalm 110 vs 1, Gal 6 vs 9. Luke 10 vs 19. He Declared the Year: A YEAR OF EXTRAORDINARY TURNAROUND.

Topic: Don't Have an Exaggerated Opinion of Yourself [Wednesday January 3, 2018]

Do not judge and criticize and condemn [others unfairly with an attitude of self-righteous superiority as though assuming the office of a judge], so that you will not be judged [unfairly]. — Matthew 7:1

The Bible repeatedly warns us against pride. And I cannot emphasize enough the danger of pride. See, when we give in to pride, we give the enemy a place of great influence over us.

When we think too highly of ourselves, it causes us to value others less, forget to trust God, and ignore the truth that we’re really nothing without God.

This type of attitude or thinking is detestable to the Lord. We must have a holy fear of pride and remember that we’re special and valuable because God loves us and has forgiven us, not because we can accomplish great things on our own.

It’s important to understand that whenever we excel in any area, it is only because God has given us the gift of grace to do it. The moment we think we’ve accomplished great things in our own strength, we’re getting into pride.

Remember, we belong to God. Instead of having exaggerated opinions of ourselves, let’s focus on God’s greatness and His love for us. It’s by His grace alone that we can succeed in doing whatever He’s calling us to do.

Prayer Starter: Lord, anything good in me and in my life comes from You. So I humble myself before You and repent of any pride I may be holding on to, knowing that when I succeed and excel, it’s because of Your grace and goodness.

From Joyce Meyer’s Ministries.

Open Heavens 3 January 2018: Wednesday daily devotional by Pastor Adeboye – The Overcomers

Topic: The Overcomers — Wednesday 3, January 2018

Memorise:And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the LORD shall be delivered: for in mount Zion and in Jerusalem shall be deliverance, as the LORD hath said, and in the remnant whom the LORD shall call. – Joel 2:32

Read: Revelation 21:1-7 (KJV)

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bible in One Year: Genesis 5-7, Revelation 21:18-3:6, Hymn: Sing Hymn 3: What Can Wash Away My Sins

MESSAGE:

Since the advent of sin into this world, life has become a battle for mankind. In the battle of life, one is either an overcomer or a victim. My prayer for you is that you will live the rest of your life as an overcomer in Jesus’ Name. Today’s memory verse expressly reveals to us the secret of overcoming in the battle of life:

“…whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be delivered:”

However, the truth in this verse of scripture throws up this question:

“How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed?” Romans 10:14

Therefore, before you can overcome by calling on the Name of the Lord, you need to first believe in the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ and in His finished work on the cross of Calvary. When you believe this and you confess so with your mouth, you become “born of God”. Here is what the Bible, in 1 John 5:4-5, says about those who are born of God:

“4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. 5 Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?”

Living the reality of being an overcomer in this world means that you daily experience the victory that Christ has obtained for you over the enemies of your body, soul and spirit. It means living your life everyday as having been delivered from the power of sin, and when you overcome sin, you have invariably overcome death, which is at the pinnacle of the battle of life. James 1:15 says,

“Then when lust hath conceived, it bringeth forth sin: and sin, when it is finished, bringeth forth death.”

Are you under any siege in the battle of life? Has life dealt you so many blows that you do not have the will to go on? Don’t give in to depression, and don’t contemplate suicide. This is a great time for you to accept Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour, through genuine repentance. In prayer, call upon the Name of Him That is able to save, and you will overcome! Are you saved but still living under the shackles of this world? It is time to realise who you are, shake yourself up from the dust of pity and begin to enforce the victory that Christ has won for you!

Action Point:Call on the Name of the Lord convening any area of life where you have been experiencing defeat.

Hymn 3: What Can Wash Away My Sins

1. What can wash away my sin?
Nothing but the blood of Jesus;
What can make me whole again?
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

Chorus:
Oh! precious is the flow
That makes me white as snow;
No other fount I know,
Nothing but the blood of Jesus.

2. For my Cleansing this I see
Nothing but the blood of Jesus!
For my cleansing this my plea
Nothing but the blood of Jesus!

3. Nothing can my sin erase
Nothing but the blood of Jesus!
Naught of works, 'tis all of grace
Nothing but the blood of Jesus!

4. This is all my hope and peace
Nothing but the blood of Jesus!
This is all my righteousness
Nothing but the blood of Jesus!

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

iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.

DCLM Daily Manna 3 January, 2018 by Pastor Kumuyi - Faith Accomplishments

Topic: Faith Accomplishments — Wednesday January 3, 2018.

Text: Hebrews 11:32-40

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

When Hudson Taylor went to China, he made the voyage on a sailing vessel. As it neared the channel between the southern Malay Peninsula and the island of Sumatra, the missionary heard an urgent knock on his stateroom door. As he opened it, there stood the captain of the ship.

"Mr. Taylor," he said, "we have no wind. We are drifting toward an island where the people are heathen, and I fear they are cannibals.""What can I do?" asked Taylor. "I understand that you believe in God. I want you to pray for wind.""All right, Captain, I will, but you must set the sail.""Why?""That’s ridiculous!

There’s not even the slightest breeze. Besides, the sailors will think I’m crazy." But finally, because of Taylor’s insistence, he agreed. Forty-five minutes later, he returned and found the missionary still on his knees.

"You can stop praying now," said the captain. "We’ve got more wind than we know what to do with!"

The Bible passage contains acts of faith by patriarchs, judges and King David also who defeated well-equipped heathen armies in battle. Natural laws were suspended through demonstration of faith and these faith-filled heroes overcame difficult situations in life and became valiant in fight.

They paid a tremendous price for what they believed in. They were men and women who would not accept deliverance or any other blessing on the condition that they deny their faith but held on till they died for the truth they held so dear.

We must recognise that great things can only happen when we put our faith to work during challenges and trials. As we approach the very end of the end-time, it’s not only the love of many that are waxing cold but their faith also are nosediving.

In order not to falter or fall, our faith must be focused only on God such that no matter the circumstances that arise, we are able to hold firm till the end.

Thought for the day: Tests and tempests are often the forerunners of testimonies.

Bible Reading in one Year: Genesis 8-11

DCLM Daily Manna was written by Pastor William Folorunso Kumuyi; is the founder and General Superintendent of the Deeper Life Bible Church situated at KM 42 on the busy Lagos-Ibadan Expressway, Nigeria.

Billy Graham’s Daily 4 January 2018 Devotional: Assurance of His Love

Topic: Assurance of His Love [Thursday January 4, 2018]

The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? — Psalm 27:1

Today many people are living in the bondage of fear. In a recent study a psychiatrist said that the greatest problem facing his patients was fear. Fear of going insane, committing suicide, being alone, or fear of heart disease, cancer, disaster, or death. We are becoming a nation of fearful people. Down through the centuries in times of trouble, temptation, trial, bereavement, and crisis, God has brought courage to the hearts of those who love Him. The Bible is crowded with assurances of God’s help and comfort in every kind of trouble which might cause fears to arise in the human heart.

Today the Christian can come to the Scriptures with full assurance that God is going to deliver the person who puts his trust and confidence in God. Christians can look into the future with promise, hope, and joy, and without fear, discouragement, or despondency.

Prayer for the day: Your assurances of love still the fears of my heart, Lord.

Written by Billy Graham, Founder of Billy Graham Evangelistic Association(BGEA). BGEA exists to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ by every effective means and to equip the church and others to do the same.

Andrew Wommack’s Daily 4 January 2018 Devotional: Can You Believe It?

Topic: Can You Believe It? [Thursday January 4, 2018]

Luke 1:18,"And Zacharias said unto the angel, Whereby shall I know this? for I am an old man, and my wife well stricken in years."

Text: Luke 1:5-25

Zacharias and Elisabeth were righteous people (v. 6) who prayed for a child for many years. They felt the same disappointments and frustrations that any of us would feel and yet they kept believing God. The Lord finally answered their prayers and sent His angel to announce the good news.

What was Zacharias' reaction? He couldn't believe it! The very thing that he had been praying for was granted and he doubted that it was true. In Zacharias' case he received his miracle anyway. Perhaps his wife's faith pulled him through.

Likewise, you may be praying for the right things. You may even be sincere and earnest, but would you be surprised if those prayers were suddenly answered today? Have you made preparations for your prayers to be answered?

Before the children of Israel were actually delivered from Egypt, they ate the passover meal by faith. Their bags were packed and ready to go. We need to anticipate our prayers being answered.

Right now, imagine how you would feel or what you would do if the answer to your prayers was manifested this very minute. Then, as much as possible begin to think and act that way. You'll find out that your whole attitude will change as you focus on your answer instead of the problem.

This message was written by The Association of Related Ministries International (ARMI) is an extension of Andrew Wommack Ministries (AWM). ARMI is a unique partnership committed to providing resources to help like-minded ministers succeed in a spirit of excellence and to draw from the experience and expertise of both the AWM and Charis Bible College staff. (www.awmi.net).

Kenneth and Gloria Copeland’s Daily January 4, 2018 Devotional: Let The World Know

Topic: Let The World Know [Thursday January 4, 2018]

Neither pray I for these alone, but for them also which shall believe on me through their word…. that they may be one, even as we are one: I in them, and thou in me, that they may be made perfect in one; and that the world may know that thou hast sent me…. - John 17:20-23

Over the years the Church has come up with all kinds of elaborate ways to evangelize the world. We get together and map out plans and strategies and raise money for it. But through it all, we rarely mention the plan that Jesus gave us.

Most believers don't even realize that He gave us the key to winning the world, but He did. He prayed about it right before He went to the Cross. He asked the Father to bring us into a place of such oneness with each other and with Him that the world would know that He had been sent from God.

If you and I and all the rest of the Body of Christ would get together and start loving each other, we'd evangelize the world so fast it would make your head swim. It's true. But until recently, we've been too busy scrapping with one another and getting our feelings hurt to give it much thought.

But, praise God, it's beginning to dawn on some folks now that we need to stop that stuff. We need to start treating Jesus' command that we love one another as a command instead of an alternative. We need to drop our silly arguments and be unified by the Spirit of God.

Do you want to take a step toward evangelizing the world today? Then start praying for oneness. Make up your mind that you're going to start loving your fellow believers instead of criticizing, complaining and talking ugly about them.

Start confessing that the Church of God is going to rise up together in faith and love as one glorious Body driven by the power of Jesus Himself. We are, you know. Jesus prayed that it would happen, and the Holy Spirit is already bringing it to pass.

Satan would like to stop it, but he can't. It's far more powerful than he is—and it's going to blast a hole in his operation that's big enough to drive a train through. It's going to let the whole world know that Jesus truly is Lord!

Scripture Reading: John 17:9-26

This message was written by Kenneth and Gloria Copeland, the leader of the Kenneth Copeland Ministries (www.KCM.org) that specializes in teaching principles of bible faith - prayer, healing, salvation and other biblical topics.

TREM’s Daily 4 January 2018 Devotional by Dr. Mike Okonkwo - God Is Love

Topic: God Is Love — Thursday January 4, 2018.

“He that loveth not knoweth not God; for God is love.” 1 John 4:8 KJV

Love is not optional for the believer. We are not advised to love. Love must be our nature because God is love. When you invited Jesus into your life, the fullness of love came into you. You have the full capacity of love, but you must activate it. When you understand love, you will discover that it is impossible to walk in Christ and not walk in love.

Our scripture for today puts a fine line between us and the world. The world does not have the capacity to love; no wonder the world is being overtaken by hate speeches all over the media. That is because they speak of their father, the devil. However, we cannot talk like the world, because we are not of the world. We speak like our Father and our Father is love. Some believers, because of the challenges they are facing, are now talking as if the world, we cannot allow this. We must be immune by filling ourselves with the consciousness of the love of God. Start your day thinking about the love of God. Meditate on it, speak to yourself about His love and you will see your life radiating the love of God. Think of the fact that He loved you when you are unlovable. Just take five to ten minutes of your day thinking about the love of God and you will see your life radiating His love in a dark world.

Further Reading: 1 John 4:4-8

Daily Bible Reading: Morning- Gen. 10-11 / Evening- Matt.4

Written by Dr. Mike Okonkwo; Is the Presiding Bishop of The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM); a versatile man of God with over 30 years of dedicated service unto the Lord.

Our Daily Manna January 4, 2018: ODM devotional: Habits That Provoke The Fire!

Topic: Habits That Provoke The Fire! [Thursday, January 4, 2018]

Basic Scripture 1 kings 18:17-40

It has been said that a man should activate only those habits that he is willing should have mastery over him. This year 2018 is young! Cultivate the habit of good planning! Planning is the father of progress and uncle of decoration! Yes! Before the fire could fall when Elijah prayed in 1 kings 18, the following 9 things happened in the sequence/order below:

1. He told the people to “come near.” Not far! They were near! 2. He repaired the altar of the Lord that was broken down. 3. He took twelve stones. Not 13 or 200 stones! 4. He built an altar in the name of the LORD 5. He made a trench ( a ditch) around the altar. 6. He put the wood in order! Not scattered Wood! He arranged the wood! Scattered wood will not attract fire! 7. He cut the bullock (animal) in pieces and laid it on the wood. 8. He poured water in the ditch and made sure the water ran roundabout the altar. 9. And he waited for the timing. Time of offering the evening sacrifice! Wow! Wonderful God!

All the 9 points above stands for planning and timing!

He waited for the time of the evening sacrifice! Please form the habit of sticking to time and schedules as the year progresses. Break the habit of postponing your plans. Procrastination is a habit you must conquer this year.

Also, in Luke 4:16, Jesus, our supreme example, had the habit of never missing His fellowship with God. He was well planned. Note the words: “As his custom was…” what are your customs (habits)? You can form the habit of using the “finishing-the-bible-in-one-year reading plan” at the back of this devotional. Yes! You. Must finish your Bible this year. Make it your habit Every year to finish your bible once!

Bad habits also include compulsive TV watching, missing church services, eating recklessly, staying with your phone 24/7, alcoholism, lateness to work, meetings, appointments in church, always criticizing others, etc. You must kill these killers this year! Never forget that behind every bad habit, there is always an innocent reason. Deal with it! Addiction to food can become a bad habit! Start cutting down your food intake now as you prepare for the 21-day Worldwide fasting starting in 48 hours-January 6th-26th! Let the fire fall this year! Establish good habits and let them guide you daily as you go through this year! Pray now!

Pray the “Prayers just before any fasting” on page 108 of “War Against Haman-13” booklet for the next 2 days.

Prayer points: Take song 5: when the roll is called….

1. Pray over every bad habit you know has gripped you!

Don’t miss the coming 21-days fast of their year. Deal with bad habits by name now! Break the yoke forever! Fire will fall in Jesus name! Pray about today seriously now!

By Bishop (Dr) Chris E. Kwakpovwe (Cek)
Publisher/Writer Of ODM And

Rev (Mrs) Flora E. Kwakpovwe (Fek)
Co-Publisher/Writer Of ODM.

Our Daily Bread 4 January 2018 Devotional – What Do the Experts Say?

Topic: What Do the Experts Say? — Thursday January 4, 2018.

Read: John 5:31–40, Bible in a Year: Genesis 10–12; Matthew 4

These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life. John 5:39–40

Boston Globe columnist Jeff Jacoby writes of the “uncanny ability of experts to get things hopelessly, cataclysmically wrong.” A quick glance at recent history shows he’s right. The great inventor Thomas Edison, for instance, once declared that talking movies would never replace silent films. And in 1928, Henry Ford declared, “People are becoming too intelligent ever to have another war.” Countless other predictions by “experts” have missed the mark badly. Genius obviously has its limits.

Only one Person is completely reliable, and He had strong words for some so-called experts. The religious leaders of Jesus’s day claimed to have the truth. These scholars and theologians thought they knew what the promised Messiah would be like when He arrived.

Jesus cautioned them, “You study the Scriptures diligently because you think that in them you have eternal life.” Then He pointed out how they were missing the heart of the matter. “These are the very Scriptures that testify about me, yet you refuse to come to me to have life” (John 5:39–40).

As another new year gets underway, we’ll hear predictions ranging from the terrifying to the wildly optimistic. Many of them will be stated with a great deal of confidence and authority. Don’t be alarmed. Our confidence remains in the One at the very heart of the Scriptures. He has a firm grip on us and on our future.

Prayer: Father, whenever we are troubled or alarmed, help us to seek You. We commit this coming year and all it holds to You.

Knowing the future is uncertain; knowing the One who holds the future is a sure thing.

Insight:

An Old Testament example of “experts” who missed the mark is the account of the “wise men” in the book of Daniel. King Nebuchadnezzar ordered them to explain his dreams, but these experts admitted, “No one can reveal it to the king except the gods, and they do not live among humans” (2:11). However, God enabled Daniel to explain the dreams, and he told the king: “No wise man . . . can explain . . . the mystery. . . , but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries” (vv. 27–28). The king’s experts were right to say no one can reveal mysteries except God, but they were clearly wrong that God does “not live among humans” (v. 11). The Scriptures tell us, “The Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us” (John 1:14).

How does knowing Jesus is God and lives in us through the Spirit give you confidence in this world of uncertainty? Sim Kay Tee

This message was written By Tim Gustafson [Our Daily Bread Ministries.]

Seeds of Destiny 4 January 2018 by Pastor Paul Enenche: The Necessity Of Conceiving Vision

Topic: The Necessity Of Conceiving Vision [Thursday December 4, 2018]

Scripture: And the Lord said unto Abram, after that Lot was separated from him, Lift up now thine eyes, and look from the place where thou art northward, and southward, and eastward, and westward: For all the land which thou seest, to thee will I give it, and to thy seed for ever. Genesis 13:14-15.

Thought For The Day: Being sure of where you are going before embarking on a journey is a critical requirement for the success of the journey.

The Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary (New 7th Edition) defines vision as the ability to see; the area that you can see from a particular position. It is also an ideal or a goal toward which one aspires.

It is important to know the necessity of conceiving vision for a year at a beginning of the Year. This is important for three reasons:

1. How you begin a thing determines how you will end it.

2. The quality of a foundation determines the integrity of the construction. The quality of your vision at the beginning of a year determines the weight of your achievement in the rest of the year.

3. The force with which you start the year determines the speed at which you move in the rest of the year. The force with which a person starts the year by conceiving a quality vision determines the force with which he will move in actualizing it.

So, the life of vision is a critical requirement for every journey. Being sure of where you are going before embarking on a journey is a critical requirement for the success of the journey.

Beloved, if you do not know where you are going in the year 2018, you may not know or like where you would end. Without a clear definition of destination, stagnation is inevitable.

Therefore, endeavour to see the necessity of conceiving vision for your life and the year, 2018 so you will not be frustrated in life.

Remember This: Being sure of where you are going before embarking on a journey is a critical requirement for the success of the journey.

Assignments:

1. Go through today’s message once again.

2. Connect with the God who gives to His children the vision for living.

Prayer: O Lord, open my eyes to see the necessity of conceiving vision for the Year 2018 as well as for the rest of my life in order not to end empty-handed in life, in Jesus’ Name.

FOR FURTHER UNDERSTANDING, GET THIS MESSAGE: THE LIFE OF VISION.

Amazing Fact: Humans shed 40 pounds of skin in their lifetime, completely replacing their outer skin every month.

Today In History: 04/01/1885 - Dr. William Grant performed the first successful appendectomy. The patient was Mary Gartside.

Daily Reading: Genesis 8:1 to 10:32, Matthew 4:12 to 25, Psalm 4:1 to 8, Proverbs 1:20 to 23.

Quote: It is wisdom to find out what you are looking for in life; what God wants to do with your life. ‘21 Foolish Things people do’ by Dr Paul Enenche.

Today’s devotional was written by Pastor Paul Enenche of the Dunamis International Gospel Centre (DIGC), headquartered at Abuja, Nigeria, with Pastor Paul and Becky Enenche, as the Senior Pastors. It is a power-packed arena where God’s Presence, Principles and Power are at work for the salvation, healing and restoration of human destinies and dignities.

Topic: Know Your Limit [Thursday 4, January 2018]

Memorise:"Honour all men. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honour the king." -1 Peter 2:17

Read: Luke 2:51-52

51 And he went down with them, and came to Nazareth, and was subject unto them: but his mother kept all these sayings in her heart.

52 And Jesus increased in wisdom and stature, and in favour with God and man.

Bible In One Year Genesis 9-11. Hymn: Sing Hymn 4: God Give Us Christian Homes

MESSAGE:

As a teenager, you sometimes get over excited. Adults like to play with you and even engage you in conversations, sometimes you get so excited and carried away that you begin to speak to them disrespectful. Remember that our God is a God of order, He will not support you being disrespectful to your elders. You need to know your limit when you are relating with people that are older than you. This way, they will freely relate with you and you will get to learn more from them.

With your age mates too, there are limits. Everybody likes to be respected, so understand the limits of your friends and respect those limits. This is the secret of great relationships.

Key Point: If you respect your elders, you can gain a lot from them.

Hymn 4: God Give Us Christian Homes

God give us Christian homes!
Homes where the Bible is loved and taught,
Homes where the Master’s will is sought,
Homes crowned with beauty Your love has wrought;
God give us Christian homes;
God give us Christian homes!

God give us Christian homes!
Homes where the father is true and strong,
Homes that are free from the blight of wrong,
Homes that are joyous with love and song;
God give us Christian homes;
God give us Christian homes!

God give us Christian homes!
Homes where the mother, in caring quest,
Strives to show others Your way is best,
Homes where the Lord is an honored guest;
God give us Christian homes;
God give us Christian homes!

God give us Christian homes!
Homes where the children are led to know
Christ in His beauty who loves them so,
Homes where the altar fires burn and glow;
God give us Christian homes;
God give us Christian homes!

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

Topic: Sowing and Reaping [Thursday January 4, 2018]

For if anyone thinks he is something [special] when [in fact] he is nothing [special except in his own eyes], he deceives himself. —Galatians 6:3

Scripture plainly tells us that we will reap what we sow. Literally, this applies to farming and planting crops. Most people know it also applies to giving money and being generous. But did you know that this principle also applies to the way we treat others?

Our attitudes and words are “seeds” we sow each day that determine what kind of fruit or harvest we’ll have in our circumstances and relationships.

The devil loves to keep us busy thinking selfishly, treating loyal friends as if they are unimportant, sowing words of strife in our families, and thinking negative thoughts about bosses, pastors, etc. The devil wants us to sow bad seed in every single relationship and circumstance.

So many people behave this way and then wonder why people don’t like them or treat them the way they want to be treated. The answer is simple—they are reaping what they’ve sown!

Let me ask you, what are you sowing today? With God’s grace, make the choice to sow love, forgiveness, kindness, and patience in every relationship and situation. You’ll find that as you treat others the way God wants you to, you will reap a life filled with encouraging, godly relationships and satisfying results.

Prayer Starter: Holy Spirit, I want to sow good things and reap things. Instead of acting selfishly toward others, help me to sow kindness and love in my relationships with all of the people in my life.

From Joyce Meyer’s Ministries.

Open Heavens 4 January 2018: Thursday daily devotional by Pastor Adeboye – Only Believe

Topic: Only Believe — Thursday 4, January 2018

Memorise: He that believeth on him is not condemned: but he that believeth not is condemned already, because he hath not believed in the name of the only begotten Son of God.– John 3:18

Read: Romans 8:31-39 (KJV)

31 What shall we then say to these things? If God be for us, who can be against us?

32 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?

33 Who shall lay any thing to the charge of God's elect? It is God that justifieth.

34 Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again, who is even at the right hand of God, who also maketh intercession for us.

35 Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

36 As it is written, For thy sake we are killed all the day long; we are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.

37 Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.

38 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come,

39 Nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Bible in One Year: Genesis 8-10, Revelation 3:7-22, Hymn: Sing Hymn 10: My Faith Looks Up To Thee

MESSAGE:

Whenever I ruminate over the many-sided blessings embedded in the Good News that came through our Lord and Saviour, Jesus Christ, my heart is filled with great joy. I equally find it fascinating that no elaborate process involving complexities is required for us to access these blessings. Jesus did the hard work and made things simple for us. One of such blessings is freedom from condemnation. The righteous judgment of God against sin has brought all of mankind under condemnation. This is the reason why no man can escape the pain of guilt that results from sin, or the consequences that follow it. Romans 3:23 says,

“For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God;”

Romans 6:23 further says,

“For the wages of sin is death,”

However, the Good News is that Jesus Christ gives us freedom from the condemnation that had put a seal on the destiny of all mankind. In Romans 8:1, this Good News says,

“There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.”

Those who are in Christ Jesus can now live a life free from guilt of sin or the feeling of inadequacy resulting from past misdeeds. Their conscience is liberated from condemnation because they know their sins have been washed away by the precious blood of Jesus (Revelation 1:5). What does it take to access these blessings of freedom? Only Believe! Believe in the Person of the Lord Jesus Christ, believe He is who He says He is, and believe in the work of salvation He has completed. How do you know you truly believe all these? When your actions and confessions reflect what you claim to believe, that is when you truly believe.

Another blessing of the Good News that you can have access to by faith is the truth that Jesus Christ, though rich, became poor, so that through His poverty, you might be rich (2 Corinthians 8:9). Your faith in this article of the Good News will prevent you from doing diabolical or criminal things to get rich, because you know that your prosperity lies in the sacrificial life that the Master has lived. Believing in the words and works of Jesus gives us contentment, the absence of which brings many sorrows to those who want to be rich by any means (1 Timothy 6:6-10). Beloved, do you believe all these? If you do, live your life by the ideas of the Good News of the Lord Jesus Christ, and you will forever be free from condemnation, now and in eternity.

Prayer Point:Father, please help me to live according to Your will, so that I may not be condemned with this world. Grant me grace not to lose sight of the words and works of Jesus. Amen.

Hymn 10: My Faith Looks Up To Thee

1. My faith looks up to Thee,
Thou Lamb of Calvary,
Saviour divine!
Now hear me while I pray,
Take all my guilt away,
Oh, let me from this day
Be wholly Thine!

2. May Thy rich grace impart
Strength to my fainting heart,
My zeal inspire!
As Thou hast died for me,
Oh, may my love to Thee
Pure, warm, and changeless be,
A living fire!

3. While life’s dark maze I tread,
And griefs around me spread,
Be Thou my guide;
Bid darkness turn to day,
Wipe sorrow’s tears away,
Nor let me ever stray
From Thee aside.

4.Whenlife’s swift race is run,
Death’s cold work almost done
Be near to me.
Blest Saviour, then in love,
Fear and distrust remove;
Oh, bear me safe above,
A ransomed soul!

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

iOpenHeavens is the electronic version of the Hard Copy. The Open Heavens devotional application is available across all mobile platforms and operating systems: iOS, Android, Blackberry, Nokia, Windows Mobile and PC.

Billy Graham’s Daily 3 January 2018 Devotional: A Simple Message

Andrew Wommack’s Daily 3 January 2018 Devotional: About Genealogies

Our Daily Manna January 3, 2018: ODM devotional: Gather Knowledge First!

Kenneth and Gloria Copeland’s Daily January 3, 2018 Devotional: Be a Blessing

TREM’s Daily 3 January 2018 Devotional by Dr. Mike Okonkwo - Love Does Not Imagine Evil

The Home: An Institution For Child Training (5) by Pastor Faith Oyedepo

MFM 2018 Prophecies by Dr D.K Olukoya

Joyce Meyer's Daily 3 January 2018 Devotional: Don't Have an Exaggerated Opinion of Yourself

Open Heavens 3 January 2018: Wednesday daily devotional by Pastor Adeboye – The Overcomers

DCLM Daily Manna 3 January, 2018 by Pastor Kumuyi - Faith Accomplishments

Billy Graham’s Daily 4 January 2018 Devotional: Assurance of His Love

Andrew Wommack’s Daily 4 January 2018 Devotional: Can You Believe It?

Kenneth and Gloria Copeland’s Daily January 4, 2018 Devotional: Let The World Know

TREM’s Daily 4 January 2018 Devotional by Dr. Mike Okonkwo - God Is Love

Our Daily Manna January 4, 2018: ODM devotional: Habits That Provoke The Fire!

Our Daily Bread 4 January 2018 Devotional – What Do the Experts Say?

Seeds of Destiny 4 January 2018 by Pastor Paul Enenche: The Necessity Of Conceiving Vision

Teens’ Open Heavens 4 January 2018 by Pastor Adeboye - Know Your Limit

Joyce Meyer's Daily 4 January 2018 Devotional: Sowing and Reaping

Open Heavens 4 January 2018: Thursday daily devotional by Pastor Adeboye – Only Believe