2093
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 THURS. 18TH JULY 2024
PROJECT YOURSELF TO YOUR NEXT LEVEL
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Eat thou not the bread of him that hath an evil eye, neither desire thou his dainty meats: For as he thinketh in his heart, so is he... (Proverbs 23:6-7).
Pastor Chris Says
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Did you know that with your mind, you can project yourself to your next and higher level in life? Your mind is an instrument given to you by God to improve your life from glory to glory. You have to see first in your mind the things you desire for your life, and create them.
God had to teach this to Abraham when He brought him out at night and instructed him to look at the stars and number them (Genesis 15:5). He was getting Abraham acquainted with the power of vision; how to use mind-power to create realities.
Recall what we read in our theme scripture: as a man thinks in his heart, so is he. The quickest way to affect your thoughts is through mental pictures. You can project yourself out of poverty into abundance through your thoughts. Every man is the character of his thoughts. Your mind can put you in a place of glory or of limitation.
It’s about your mindset; each one of us has a destiny of greatness because we’re the seed of Abraham. God told Abraham that He would make him great, and in his seed shall all the nations of the earth be blessed (Genesis 22:18). This is our heritage; we’ve been set apart to be a blessing to this world. But do you see yourself as such?
Think about the man Lazarus for example; the Bible tells us that he was a righteous man, but he died a beggar (Luke 16:20-22). He didn’t die a beggar because that was his destiny, but because that was his mind-set. If he had projected himself in faith, envisioning his rich heritage as the seed of Abraham, his story would have been different.
How do you think? Romans 12:2 says, “And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind….” Use your mind correctly, to picture your glorious and victorious life in Christ. Hallelujah!
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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I have the mind of Christ, a sanctified mind with which I project myself in glory and create the realities that I desire. I think greatness and see only pictures of excellence, success, victory and abundance. Hallelujah!
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Genesis 15:1-6; 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.
[2] And Abram said, Lord GOD, what wilt thou give me, seeing I go childless, and the steward of my house is this Eliezer of Damascus?
[3] And Abram said, Behold, to me thou hast given no seed: and, lo, one born in my house is mine heir.
[4] And, behold, the word of the LORD came unto him, saying, This shall not be thine heir; but he that shall come forth out of thine own bowels shall be thine heir.
[5] And he brought him forth abroad, and said, Look now toward heaven, and tell the stars, if thou be able to number them: and he said unto him, So shall thy seed be.
[6] And he believed in the LORD; and he counted it to him for righteousness.
Romans 12:2 AMPC; Do not be conformed to this world (this age), [fashioned after and adapted to its external, superficial customs], but be transformed (changed) by the [entire] renewal of your mind [by its new ideals and its new attitude], so that you may prove [for yourselves] what is the good and acceptable and perfect will of God, even the thing which is good and acceptable and perfect [in His sight for you].
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 25:13-26:1 & Psalms 11-16
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 5:13-19 & Isaiah 38
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 TUES. 16TH JULY 2024
CONVICTION IS IMPORTANT
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For our [preaching of the] glad tidings (the Gospel) came to you not only in word, but also in [its own inherent] power and in the Holy Spirit and with great conviction and absolute certainty [on our part]. You know what kind of men we proved [ourselves] to be among you for your good (1 Thessalonians 1:5 AMPC).
Pastor Chris Says
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In 1989, a young lady who had attended our services for only a few months was asked, "What’s the message of Pastor Chris?" Her response was profound and insightful. She said, "The divine life." And she was right. She gave the response having severally witnessed my conviction of the Gospel. It’s been decades, yet the message has remained the same. It’s a message I’ve lived and taught, a reality that has permeated every aspect of my life.
How did I come about this? Well, it’s because I believe in Jesus Christ. When you believe in Jesus Christ, you should believe with all your heart. There has to be oneness with Him. His truth is not given to us to debate; His truth is given to us to accept as the only truth.
In John 14:6, the Lord Jesus Himself declared, "...I am the way, the truth, and the life...." He left no room for doubt, debate or speculation. He unequivocally stated, "No man comes to the Father but by me," affirming His exclusivity as man’s Kinsman-redeemer, Mediator and Saviour.
Paul reiterated the same truth in 1 Timothy 2:5-6: “For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; who gave himself a ransom for all, to be testified in due time.” Jesus is the truth. Everything you’ll ever know about God and from God is in Jesus. He’s the embodiment of all wisdom and knowledge.
Colossians 2:3 says, “In whom are hid all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” He’s the embodiment, the totality of divinity. Colossians 1:19 AMPC says, “For it has pleased [the Father] that all the divine fullness (the sum total of the divine perfection, powers, and attributes) should dwell in Him permanently.”
This has to become real to you. It has to become your truth; it has to become your gospel, your personal message. It has to become your absolute conviction, something for which you’d rather die than deny or turn away from.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the unwavering truth of your Word embodied in Jesus Christ. I embrace this truth with absolute conviction, allowing it to permeate every aspect of my life. I stand firm in faith, unshaken by doubt or debate, and I declare that your truth is my guiding light in all things. I boldly proclaim the Gospel with absolute certainty, knowing that Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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John 14:6-9;Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
[7] If ye had known me, ye should have known my Father also: and from henceforth ye know him, and have seen him.
[8] Philip saith unto him, Lord, shew us the Father, and it sufficeth us.
[9] Jesus saith unto him, Have I been so long time with you, and yet hast thou not known me, Philip? he that hath seen me hath seen the Father; and how sayest thou then, Shew us the Father?
Romans 1:16; For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek.
Acts 4:12 AMPC; And there is salvation in and through no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by and in which we must be saved.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 24:1-27 & Psalms 1-6
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 4:21-31 & Isaiah 36
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SUN. 14TH JULY 2024
PLAN YOUR OFFERINGS
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Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion... (2 Corinthians 9:7 AMPC).
Pastor Chris Says
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Giving to God should always be a joy, and we’re blessed for doing it. Nonetheless, we can have greater results by doing it according to His Word. There's a great significance to planning the offerings that you give to the Lord. Remember, He is God; He’s not a man.
Your offering to Him is holy; it’s a sanctified thing and it deserves careful consideration; it’s something you have to be intentional about. Your offering to God is not a “casual” giving; it’s something you do as an act of worship. When you give your offerings to God, you’re saying to Him, “I recognize that you are God, and I worship you as my Lord.”
Some have the misconception that giving offerings to God involves giving away your “excess” or what you don't really need. Such an approach can lead to financial instability and challenges down the line. Plan your giving and recognise the holiness and sanctity of your offerings.
The Apostle Paul tells us, "I want each of you to take plenty of time to think it over, and make up your own mind what you will give…" (2 Corinthians 9:7 MSG). Recognize the spiritual significance of your offerings so you can experience the fullness of God's blessings associated with it.
Don’t be swayed by arguments against giving or influenced by those who downplay its significance. Instead, pay attention to the Word. Jesus said in Luke 6:38, "Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom…."
Prayerfully plan what you will be giving as your offerings, which, by the way, are different from your tithes and firstfruits or special seeds. This is an integral part of your financial stewardship. Plan your offerings and give them joyfully, knowing that “...God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, ``prompt to do it") giver [whose heart is in his giving]” (2 Corinthians 9:7 AMPC).
This is the way to position yourself to walk in God's superabundant blessings in every aspect of your life. Praise God!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for the privilege and blessings of giving my offerings; I’m taking actions to do it consistently, reverently and joyfully with the wisdom of God. Therefore, I walk in abundant blessings, bearing increased fruits of righteousness, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Luke 6:38; give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 AMPC; [Remember] this: he who sows sparingly and grudgingly will also reap sparingly and grudgingly, and he who sows generously [that blessings may come to someone] will also reap generously and with blessings.
[7] Let each one [give] as he has made up his own mind and purposed in his heart, not reluctantly or sorrowfully or under compulsion, for God loves (He takes pleasure in, prizes above other things, and is unwilling to abandon or to do without) a cheerful (joyous, "prompt to do it") giver [whose heart is in his giving].
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 22:22-23:1-11 & Job 36-39
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 4:1-11 & Isaiah 34
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 FRI. 12TH JULY 2024
OUR LIGHT—A BLAZING INFERNO
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Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner; but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire (Matthew 3:12).
Pastor Chris Says
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In Isaiah 10, the prophet prophesied saying, "And the Light of Israel shall become a fire and His Holy One a flame, and it will burn and devour [the Assyrian's] thorns and briers in one day" (Isaiah 10:17 AMPC). In understanding this prophetic passage, it's crucial to grasp its spiritual connotations.
While it may initially seem to address the Assyrian king or empire of the time, there's a deeper layer of prophetic significance pointing to the future. First, theAssyrian is the spiritual description of the antichrist in the Old Testament. With that in mind, let’s read the words of Jesus in Matthew 5:14 (NIV): "You are the light of the world...."
As Christians, we are the light of the world, and in this prophetic vision, our light transcends mere illumination; it’s a raging fire—a blazing inferno! Furthermore, the Bible says, “...it will burn and devour [the Assyrian's] thorns and briers in one day" (Isaiah 10:17 AMPC).
These thorns and briers represent the evil schemes, deception, and devious agenda being orchestrated by the enemy in today’s world. The imagery projected and painted by the prophet is that we’re the fire that burns and devours the Assyrian's thorns and briers. Through our words, we obliterate the deceptive works of the antichrist in these last days.
We’ve been empowered by the Spirit to be a ferocious fiery force against the works of darkness. In essence, we are the fire and they are the chaff. Hallelujah! Have this consciousness. You’re the light of the world, the beacon of hope and transformation to those around you.
Therefore, ignite a blazing fire to consume the works of darkness. Everywhere you are, speak God’s Word. Proclaim His truth and establish His righteousness in your world. It’s your calling. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for making me a bearer of your divine light. I’m a beacon of hope and transformation to those around me, empowered by your Spirit to ignite a blazing fire against the works of darkness in these last days. I declare that your righteousness is established in the earth and in the hearts of men, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Ephesians 5:8; For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light:
Matthew 5:14-16; Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
[15] Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.
[16] Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven.
Philippians 2:14-15; Do all things without murmurings and disputings:
[15] that ye may be blameless and harmless, the sons of God, without rebuke, in the midst of a crooked and perverse nation, among whom ye shine as lights in the world;
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 21:17-36 & Job 29-31
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 3:13-22 & Isaiah 32
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 WED. 10TH JULY 2024
EXCELLENCE CAN’T BE IGNORED
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…a man of understanding is of an excellent spirit (Proverbs 17:27).
Pastor Chris Says
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Walking in excellence is for those who make the choice. Therefore, develop your spirit for excellence, to always produce outstanding results. Remember the words of Jesus: "Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid" (Matthew 5:14).
Then in the 16th verse, He said, “Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Yes, you’re shining, but are you shining enough to give light? It doesn’t matter what anybody thinks; make up your mind to do what you do so well that you’ll be a reference for excellence and thus make yourself so relevant and indispensable by building stability, discipline and reliability into your character.
There’re people who have so many responsibilities because of their excellent spirit and excellent performance. They’re so dependable that every time something new is about to be done in their place of work, their names come up. Yes; it’s because excellence can’t be ignored.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for the spirit of excellence that’s at work in me. I continually walk in excellence, and as such, my light shines ever so brightly and brings glory to your Name. I function in divine wisdom and diligence to consistently produce outstanding results, and my commitment to excellence is a testimony of your grace and goodness in my life, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Daniel 6:1-3; It pleased Darius to set over the kingdom an hundred and twenty princes, which should be over the whole kingdom;
[2] and over these three presidents; of whom Daniel was first: that the princes might give accounts unto them, and the king should have no damage.
[3] Then this Daniel was preferred above the presidents and princes, because an excellent spirit was in him; and the king thought to set him over the whole realm.
Proverbs 22:29; Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; He shall not stand before mean men.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 20:17-38 & Job 22-24
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 2:13-21 & Isaiah 30
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 MON. 8TH JULY 2024
HE’S THE MASTERMIND OF EVERY GOOD THING
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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 (Jeremiah 29:11).
Pastor Chris Says
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It’s amazing how much God loves us. Think about the fact that He gave us everything! He gave us His Kingdom, He gave us His righteousness, He gave us His wisdom, He gave us His glory, He gave us His Name, and even gave us His life. It shows how much He loves us.
So, when people are suffering and in pain, it’s not from God. The Bible says in Psalm 33:5, “...the earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.” His goodness—that’s all He wants every man, woman, boy and girl on the face of the earth to experience every day.
Psalm 16:11 says in His presence is fullness of joy, and at His right hand are pleasures for evermore. That lets you know the kind of God He is. He’s not the mastermind behind your suffering. He’s not the mastermind behind your sorrows.
Perhaps you’re reading this today and life has been hard for you; things haven’t been going the way you want them to go; you’re not living a fulfilled life; there can be a change even now. Embrace this loving Christ; believe truly that He loves you and wants the best for you.
He said in 3 John 1:2, “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth.” What a blessed desire from our ever-loving and gracious heavenly Father! He’s the Father of light and of all good things, and He doesn’t discriminate (James 1:17). Matthew 5:45 says, “…for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” He’s that gracious and kind.
Also think about what He says in Isaiah 1:19 (TLB): “If you will only let me help you, if you will only obey, then I will make you rich!” Imagine the invitation; that means it’s up to you to let Him help you live in prosperity and superabundance. But how does He help you? It’s through His Word. His Word is His truth and the light that guides you in the path of absolute victory and dominion in life. As you walk in the light of His Word, you discover all the blessings that belong to you in Christ and enjoy the fullness of your inheritance in Him. Hallelujah!
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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The Lord is the mastermind of every good thing in my life. His thoughts towards me are of peace and not of evil, to give me a future and a hope. I bask in His unconditional love and experience His goodness every day, for He has given me His Kingdom, righteousness, wisdom and glory. I walk in the light of His Word that guides me in absolute victory and dominion in life. Hallelujah!
📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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Psalm 33:5; He loveth righteousness and judgment: The earth is full of the goodness of the LORD.
James 1:17; Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and cometh down from the Father of lights, with whom is no variableness, neither shadow of turning.
Acts 10:38; how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 19:8-41 & Job 15-18
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 1:18-2:1-2 & Isaiah 28
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SAT. 6TH JULY 2024
IT MATTERS WHAT YOU LISTEN TO
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My son, give attention to my words; Incline your ear to my sayings. Do not let them depart from your eyes; Keep them in the midst of your heart; For they are life to those who find them, And health to all their flesh (Proverbs 4:20-22 NKJV).
Pastor Chris Says
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What you listen to matters. If you listen to the Word of God that lifts your spirit, you’ll be lifted; your life will be improved. The Word of God is life and will keep you healthy if you give it attention as the scripture says.
You have to learn to reject negative words and information that demean or condemn. Many naturally feel more comfortable with words that condemn them because they recognize their frailties.
Such people live in fear continually because of their ignorance of the Word of God. As a child of God, you must be different; and learn and know the Word of God for yourself. The Lord Jesus said, “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” (John 8:32 NKJV).
The Word of God is truth. Truth liberates you and brings you into the glorious liberty of the sons of God. Listen to the Word every day. Study the Bible. Study Rhapsody of Realities diligently and follow the Bible study guide that it provides. Fill your heart with the Word of God, and you’ll most certainly live an exciting and prosperous life.
Joshua 1:8 NKJV says, “This Book of the Law shall not depart from your mouth, but you shall meditate in it day and night, that you may observe to do according to all that is written in it. For then you will make your way prosperous, and then you will have good success.” Be a master of the Word. Live in it twenty-four hours every day, and you’ll live a great life of success, glory and victory.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for the life-giving power of your Word. I reject negative and unwholesome information and fill my heart with your truths through consistent study and meditation. Your Word dwells richly in my heart in all wisdom, shaping my thoughts, words and actions in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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Psalm 119:105;Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, And a light unto my path.
Proverbs 4:20-22; My son, attend to my words; Incline thine ear unto my sayings.
[21] Let them not depart from thine eyes; Keep them in the midst of thine heart.
[22] For they are life unto those that find them, And health to all their flesh.
Colossians 3:16; 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.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 18:1-23 & Job 9-11
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians1:1-9 & Isaiah 26
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 THURS. 4TH JULY 2024
WEALTH, RICHES & RIGHTEOUSNESS
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Praise ye the LORD. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD, that delighteth greatly in his commandments. His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed. Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever (Psalm 112:1-3).
Pastor Chris Says
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Notice what the Bible says: the one who reveres the Lord and delights greatly in His Word is blessed. And not only that, wealth and riches shall be in his house, and his righteousness endures forever. Wealth, riches and righteousness are the heritage of the one who belongs to Christ.
This completely debunks the erroneous belief that if you’re rich you can’t be righteous. God has made His children rich through Christ. The lives of many Christians may somewhat be in antithesis with this, but it doesn’t negate God’s truth.
Those of us who have accepted His Word as it is have a different reality. In Christ we have wealth, riches and righteousness. It’s the life God has given us in Him.
The bane of many around the world today is ignorance; many have never been accurately taught the Word of God. Therefore, they don’t know how to apply it in order to walk in the reality of their glorious inheritance in Christ.
Make up your mind that you’re going to walk in the light of God’s Word as it relates to your prosperity in Christ. Even if you really didn’t care about being rich, He ordained that you should be able to make others rich. Well said the Apostle Paul, “As sorrowful, yet alway rejoicing; as poor, yet making many rich; as having nothing, and yet possessing all things” (2 Corinthians 6:10).
Locate yourself in the plans and purposes of God so you can have His will fulfilled in your life. He said, “Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth” (3 John 1:2).
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for your Word of truth about my wealth, riches and righteousness. As I walk in the light of your Word and apply its principles, the blessings of the Kingdom are manifested in my life; I walk in financial abundance and manifest fruits of righteousness, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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Proverbs 10:22; The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, And he addeth no sorrow with it.
Deuteronomy 8:18; But thou shalt remember the LORD thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day.
Matthew 6:33; But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.
Ecclesiastes 5:18-19: Behold that which I have seen: it is good and comely for one to eat and to drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labour that he taketh under the sun all the days of his life, which God giveth him: for it is his portion.
[19] Every man also to whom God hath given riches and wealth, and hath given him power to eat thereof, and to take his portion, and to rejoice in his labour; this is the gift of God.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 17:1-15 & Job 3-5
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 13:1-6 & Isaiah 23-24
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 TUES. 2ND JULY 2024
WISDOM TO DISCERN RIGHT FROM WRONG
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Therefore to him that knoweth to do good, and doeth it not, to him it is sin (James 4:17).
Pastor Chris Says
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Our opening scripture reveals something quite striking. It says if you know the right thing to do and don’t do it, to you, it’s a sin. That thing may not be a sin to someone else but it is a sin to you because you knew it was the right thing to do but you didn’t do it. This is one major reason God’s people need to understand the workings and guidance of divine wisdom in their lives.
Wisdom gives you the ability to decide and discern right from wrong. Wisdom helps you distinguish righteousness from evil. There’re three major kinds of wisdom the Word of God talks about, and the Greek words for them are “Sophia,” “Sunesis” and “Phronesis.”
“Sophia” is theoretical wisdom, the insight that God gives you into reality. “Sunesis” is comprehension, perception, understanding, the ability to understand concepts and see relationships between them. It suggests quickness of apprehension, the penetrating consideration which precedes action.
But when we say wisdom is the ability to decide and discern right from wrong, we’re referring to “Phronesis,” which is practical wisdom. “Phronesis” is a mindset, the mindset of the righteous; it’s a force. When we say wisdom is a force, we’re referring to “Phronesis.”
“Phronesis” is that disposition of being in the will of God beyond your reasoning. It’s a special spiritual elixir that locates you within the framework or ambits of God’s will beyond your understanding. It locates you in the places where you ought to be; it causes you to do the things you ought to do without having to reason them out first, because it has created a mindset within your system. It’s your default setting to only talk right, think right, live right, and do right. It’s a programming.
If therefore you know what is right by “Sophia” and you don’t do it, then it means you lack “Phronesis.” “Phronesis” is a propeller. It helps you see what you should see that others may not see. The beautiful thing is, you can develop yourself to function always in “Phronesis” through conscious and constant meditation on the Word of God.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, as I yield myself to the guidance of your Spirit, I function with an increased manifestation of practical wisdom—the mindset of the righteous. I’m programmed to think, talk, live and act right, and walk consistently in the light of your Word, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Proverbs 3:13-18; Happy is the man that findeth wisdom, And the man that getteth understanding.
[14] For the merchandise of it is better than the merchandise of silver, And the gain thereof than fine gold.
[15] She is more precious than rubies: And all the things thou canst desire are not to be compared unto her.
[16] Length of days is in her right hand; And in her left hand riches and honour.
[17] Her ways are ways of pleasantness, And all her paths are peace.
[18] She is a tree of life to them that lay hold upon her: And happy is every one that retaineth her.
Colossians 1:9; For this cause we also, since the day we heard it, do not cease to pray for you, and to desire that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding;
Ephesians 5:15-17; See then that ye walk circumspectly, not as fools, but as wise,
[16] redeeming the time, because the days are evil.
[17] Wherefore be ye not unwise, but understanding what the will of the Lord is.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 15:36-16:1-15 & Esther 8-10
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 12:1-10 & Isaiah 21
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 MON. 1ST JULY 2024
THE TRUE MEANING OF CHRIST
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And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book: But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God…” (John 20:30-31).
Pastor Chris Says
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What we just read points out something absolutely remarkable; it says the specific miracles of Jesus that are recorded in the Bible have a singular purpose: to engender belief in Jesus as the Christ, the Son of God. What exactly does the expression “Jesus is the Christ” mean?
The word “Christ” was translated from the Greek language into English, and it doesn’t properly capture what the Jews understood as "The Messiah." This is understandable, because the Greeks didn't have the message of the Kingdom. So, the Jews knew that the word Christ meant far more than the Anointed One; it actually means God in the flesh.
This claim, which many take so lightly, was what they killed Jesus for. Jesus claimed to be the Son of God, meaning that He was God's manifestation in the flesh. And He was right. That's the meaning of Christ. In Mark 14:60-64, during Jesus' trial before the high priest Caiaphas, many false witnesses came forward with accusations against Him, but their testimonies didn’t align.
Finally, the high priest asked Jesus directly, "...Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?" (Mark 14:61). Jesus responded, "...I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven" (Mark 14:62). The Chief Priest became furious, tore his clothes, and accused Jesus of blasphemy.
Consequently, Jesus was condemned to death. They accused Him of robbery; that is, robbing God of His place. They said, “...For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God” (John 10:33). But the Bible says, “Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God” (Philippians 2:6), because He is Himself God.
John 1:14 NKJV says, "And the Word became flesh and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, the glory as of the only begotten of the Father, full of grace and truth." 1 Timothy 3:16 says, “...God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory.” That’s Jesus, the Christ. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Lord Jesus, you are the Christ; God manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory, and also soon to be revealed at your glorious return to earth. Your Name is exalted in my life and proclaimed in all the nations as the only true God. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Luke 9:18-20; And it came to pass, as he was alone praying, his disciples were with him: and he asked them, saying, Whom say the people that I am?
[19] They answering said, John the Baptist; but some say, Elias; and others say, that one of the old prophets is risen again.
[20] He said unto them, But whom say ye that I am? Peter answering said, The Christ of God.
Matthew 16:13-16; When Jesus came into the coasts of Cæsarea Philippi, he asked his disciples, saying, Whom do men say that I the Son of man am?
[14] And they said, Some say that thou art John the Baptist: some, Elias; and others, Jeremias, or one of the prophets.
[15] He saith unto them, But whom say ye that I am?
[16] And Simon Peter answered and said, Thou art the Christ, the Son of the living God.
Acts 17:1-3; Now when they had passed through Amphipolis and Apollonia, they came to Thessalonica, where was a synagogue of the Jews:
[2] and Paul, as his manner was, went in unto them, and three sabbath days reasoned with them out of the scriptures,
[3] opening and alleging, that Christ must needs have suffered, and risen again from the dead; and that this Jesus, whom I preach unto you, is Christ.
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SAT. 29TH JUNE 2024
DISTINCT PURPOSES OF THE FIVE-FOLD MINISTRY GIFTS
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And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-12).
Pastor Chris Says
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The Apostle Paul highlights the distinct purposes of the five-fold ministry gifts in the Body of Christ. They’re for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, and for the edifying of the body of Christ.
Some Bible translations wrongly assume that the passage presents a single unified purpose, extending from the first line to the last due to the lack of punctuation in the manuscripts. However, a closer examination, supported by contextual analysis and comparison with other Scriptures reveals distinct purposes outlined by Paul.
Some other Bible translations wrongly phrased the statement as "for the perfecting of the saints, so that the saints can do the work of the ministry, which is the edifying of the Body of Christ." But that's a misconception. Three distinct purposes for the ministry gifts are, first, to perfect or equip the saints.
Secondly, they’re for the work of the ministry itself. Thirdly, they are for the edification of the Body of Christ. So, it's not stating that the saints themselves will edify the Body of Christ, but rather, the five-fold offices listed in verse 11 are responsible for building up the Body of Christ.
Of course, when every part of the Body functions as it should, the entire Body is edified. Ephesians 4:16 (NIV) tells us, "From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work."
Also, Colossians 2:19 says, "And not holding the Head, from which all the body by joints and bands having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God." However, in Ephesians 4, Paul directs attention to the distinct purposes assigned to ministry gifts for equipping the saints, the work of the ministry, and building up the Church.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I’m equipped, edified, and built up in the Body of Christ through the ministry gifts. I don’t walk in darkness, weakness, or live in stagnation, for I’m always fruitful, productive and abounding in every good work. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Ephesians 4:11-13; And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers;
[12] for the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ:
[13] till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ:
1 Corinthians 14:12; Even so ye, forasmuch as ye are zealous of spiritual gifts, seek that ye may excel to the edifying of the church.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 14:1-28 & Nehemiah 11-13
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 10:8-18 & Isaiah 18
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 THURS. 27TH JUNE 2024
YOUR SERVICE MEANS MUCH TO GOD
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Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour. For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building (1 Corinthians 3:8-9).
Pastor Chris Says
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Every opportunity of service that you have in the house of God is profoundly significant and holds great meaning to God. He’s going to hold you accountable for the work and tasks He assigned to you. So serve the Lord dutifully, and do all that you do for Him with diligence, excellence and integrity of heart. The Bible says, "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad" (2 Corinthians 5:10).
Oftentimes, when we are involved in something, whether an activity or project, we may not be conscious of the actual impact or effects of our actions. Not many realize that their actions are a message every day for which they must give an account to God.
When you’re conscious that your life is a message, and that every word spoken and every deed performed is recorded, you’ll live more purposefully. God is the author of your life's narrative. He has a pre-existing plan for you, yet you play an active role in crafting your own story.
The day will come when a comparison will be made between God's intended plan for you and the life you actually lived, and your reward will be determined by how closely your life aligned with His divine plan. Thus, pay close attention to fulfilling God's purpose for your life.
Serving the Lord, in whatever capacity he puts you, holds unparalleled honour and surpasses any earthly achievement. Always remember this: your role in the house of God, irrespective of what it is, is part of a collective effort—a teamwork inspired by the Spirit—to win souls globally.
Keep carrying out your responsibilities in the house of God with diligence and excellence. Be a soul winner. Be committed to interceding for others. Each one of us is a necessary part of the machinery created through the Holy Spirit to impact and transform lives around the world.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for the privilege and opportunity of service in the Kingdom. I’m a faithful steward of the opportunities you've entrusted to me. Therefore, my service brings glory to your Name and advances your Kingdom on earth, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
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Colossians 3:23-24; and whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
[24] knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
1 Corinthians 3:8-9; Now he that planteth and he that watereth are one: and every man shall receive his own reward according to his own labour.
[9] For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.
1 Corinthians 15:58 NIV; Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 13:1-12 & Nehemiah 7-8
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 9:11-15 & Isaiah 15-16
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 WED. 26TH JUNE 2024
RUN WITH PURPOSE
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For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad (2 Corinthians 5:10).
Pastor Chris Says
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It’s important that from time to time, you appraise yourself to be sure you’re focused on that which the Lord has called you to do. Each one of us has a unique purpose and destiny to fulfil in Christ and one day, we’ll give account to the Lord for all that we did while on earth.
According to the Scriptures, those who have done well will receive praise of Him; they’ll be rewarded. That’s why the Spirit, through the Apostle Paul, encourages us in 1 Corinthians 9:24, saying, “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain."
Life is a race, and in this race of life, you’re to run in such a way as to win the prize. Run with purpose. Don’t live like it doesn’t matter. The Amplified Classic version of the scripture above says, “Do you not know that in a race all the runners compete, but [only] one receives the prize? So run [your race] that you may lay hold [of the prize] and make it yours.”
Run with the resolve to triumph gloriously and finish your course with joy. Remember part of Paul’s valedictory admonition in 2 Timothy 4:5; he said, “...Watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry.” He could confidently give such inspiring counsel because that was his testimony. He ran with purpose and made full proof of his ministry.
Paul finished his race gloriously and testified, “For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand. I have fought a good fight, I have finished my course, I have kept the faith: Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing” (2 Timothy 4:6-8).
We’re on this journey for a more profound purpose. Keep this truth constantly before you and it’ll serve as a guiding light in the way you live your life. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I’m passionately dedicated and committed to fulfilling your purpose for my life and finishing my course gloriously. I run this race with diligence, living in your Word and guided by your wisdom to produce eternal fruits and works of righteousness, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
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1 Corinthians 9:24-27 NIV; Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one gets the prize? Run in such a way as to get the prize.
[25] Everyone who competes in the games goes into strict training. They do it to get a crown that will not last, but we do it to get a crown that will last forever.
[26] Therefore I do not run like someone running aimlessly; I do not fight like a boxer beating the air.
[27] No, I strike a blow to my body and make it my slave so that after I have preached to others, I myself will not be disqualified for the prize.
Colossians 3:23-24; and whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
[24] knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.
2 Timothy 4:6-8 AMPC; For I am already about to be sacrificed [my life is about to be poured out as a drink offering]; the time of my [spirit's] release [from the body] is at hand and I will soon go free.
[7] I have fought the good (worthy, honorable, and noble) fight, I have finished the race, I have kept (firmly held) the faith.
[8] [As to what remains] henceforth there is laid up for me the [victor's] crown of righteousness [for being right with God and doing right], which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me and recompense me on that [great] day–and not to me only, but also to all those who have loved and yearned for and welcomed His appearing
[7] And some fell among thorns; and the thorns sprang up with it, and choked it.
[8] And other fell on good ground, and sprang up, and bare fruit an hundredfold. And when he had said these things, he cried, He that hath ears to hear, let him hear.
[9] And his disciples asked him, saying, What might this parable be?
[10] And he said, Unto you it is given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God: but to others in parables; that seeing they might not see, and hearing they might not understand.
[11] Now the parable is this: The seed is the word of God.
[12] Those by the way side are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts, lest they should believe and be saved.
[13] They on the rock are they, which, when they hear, receive the word with joy; and these have no root, which for a while believe, and in time of temptation fall away.
[14] And that which fell among thorns are they, which, when they have heard, go forth, and are choked with cares and riches and pleasures of this life, and bring no fruit to perfection.
[15] But that on the good ground are they, which in an honest and good heart, having heard the word, keep it, and bring forth fruit with patience.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 11:1-18 & Ezra 9-10
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 8:9-17 & Isaiah 11-12
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SUN. 23RD JUNE 2024
COOPERATE WITH HIM
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For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure (Philippians 2:13).
Pastor Chris Says
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I love the Holy Spirit! I’ve often wondered how folks who don’t have the Holy Spirit live on a day-to-day basis. Consider what we just read in our theme verse: it’s part of the glorious ministry of the Holy Spirit in our lives. He makes us willing and able to do the will of the Father.
This doesn't imply that you sit idly by and say, “I’m not going to do or say anything if the Holy Spirit doesn’t make me say or do something.” That’s not how it works. There’s a cooperation; it’s a fellowship.
The scripture isn't conveying the idea of you “waiting” for Him to compel you to do; rather, it emphasises a partnership that enables the Holy Spirit to fulfil His ministry in your life. Both He and you have distinct roles to play.
The Holy Spirit is called to work with and through you, but you need to allow Him to do His job through fellowship with Him. Through that fellowship, He instils in you a willingness to do God's will effortlessly, where you’re always ready and willing to do what God has called you to do. Like Ezekiel, He’ll “set you upon your feet” (Ezekiel 2:2).
The Holy Spirit can prompt you to take certain actions and you’d be conscious that those actions are orchestrated by Him. He doesn't just move you capriciously as though you’re a robot; no! There’s a oneness, a unity of purpose, an agreement with Him that’s required. As the Bible says, "two can only walk together, when they agree" (Amos 3:3).
Encourage the work of the Holy Spirit in your life. Cooperate with Him. Celebrate and appreciate Him for His guidance, and for causing your heart to be mantled with the wisdom to know and walk in the perfect will of God today.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for being the One at work in me by the Holy Spirit to will and to fulfil your good pleasure. I yield to your guidance and celebrate your grace at work in me to live out your divine purpose effortlessly, and please you always, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
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Ezekiel 2:2; And the spirit entered into me when he spake unto me, and set me upon my feet, that I heard him that spake unto me.
John 14:16-17; And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever;
[17] even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you.
John 16:13; Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
Romans 8:14; For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 10:24-48 & Ezra 7-8
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 8:1-8 & Isaiah 10
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 WED. 17TH JULY 2024
HIS TRUTH PREVAILS
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Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come (John 16:13).
Pastor Chris Says
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In John 16:7-8, the Lord Jesus spoke to His disciples, telling them that it was to their advantage that He had to go away, for if He did not go away, the Helper (the Holy Spirit) would not come to them. But soon after His ascension, the Holy Spirit came as foretold and has been here ever since, to guide men into the truth.
The Holy Spirit is carrying out His work in these last days as we preach, teach and disseminate the Word of God to help bring the nations of men into the knowledge of the truth for their salvation. The Bible says in Acts 19:20, “So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.” This is happening all over the world.
In a world of darkness, deception and falsehood, God’s truth is prevailing. And as we pray for all nations, the light of truth further gains dominance, blazing with unquenchable intensity.
In your prayer times, declare that the Spirit of truth fills your nation, your cities, states, towns and villages. Declare that the evil works in every nation are paralyzed and God's purpose for the nations is fulfilled.
When you pray this way, you’re establishing the truth of the Word in your nation and in the nations of the world. Consequently, the Gospel will spread unhindered and the Word of the Lord will have free course and be glorified (2 Thessalonians 3:1). Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit, the Spirit of truth, who dwells within us and guides us into all truth. The truth of your Word penetrates every heart and mind, exposing and overcoming deception and falsehood. Indeed, your truth reigns supreme in our cities, states and nations as your righteousness fills the earth, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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John 16:13 AMPC; But when He, the Spirit of Truth (the Truth-giving Spirit) comes, He will guide you into all the Truth (the whole, full Truth). For He will not speak His own message [on His own authority]; but He will tell whatever He hears [from the Father; He will give the message that has been given to Him], and He will announce and declare to you the things that are to come [that will happen in the future].
Acts 19:20; So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.
1 Timothy 2:1-2; I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
[2] for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 25:1-12 & Psalms 7-10
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 5:1-12 & Isaiah 37
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 MON. 15TH JULY 2024
YOU’RE GOD’S FAVOURITE
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For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people: he will beautify the meek with salvation (Psalm 149:4).
Pastor Chris Says
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The psalmist in the opening verse uncovers a profound truth that transcends mere religious rhetoric. It's a revelation that speaks at the very heart of our relationship with God. Observe that it doesn’t say "For the LORD taketh pleasure in the beauties of heaven or His holy angels," no! It says, "For the LORD taketh pleasure in his people..." (Psalm 149:4).
It means God delights in you. He likes you! Pause for a moment and ponder those words. This isn’t merely about God loving us, even though that truth is monumental in itself. This is something more personal, more intimate— God delights in YOU.
Someone might think, "Pastor Chris, how can He take pleasure in me? I smoked last night; I told a lie last week.” Irrespective of what you’ve done, the Bible tells us that the Lord takes pleasure in His people, and that includes you!
Now that you know how much He loves and delights in you, live right and do the things that please Him. That’s why He gave you His nature of righteousness so that without struggle you can live a righteous life.
Every so often, contemplate the depth of God's favourable disposition towards you; think deeply on it. It’ll change your outlook on life. You’ll see yourself differently. Every aspect of your life—your work, relationships, aspirations—will take on a new meaning.
Now, if God likes you, it must mean He cares about where you are, what you do, where you live and work, who your friends are—everything about you! Can you see why He tells you in Matthew 6:25 NIV, “…do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear....”
He doesn’t want you agitated about anything because you’re His beloved and He knows how to take care of His own. Instead of having anxiety about anything, He says, “Cast them on me because I care for you” (1 Peter 5:7). See how much He takes pleasure in you—His favourite.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for your gracious and loving disposition towards me. Thank you for making me your favourite; I am divinely favoured everywhere I go because you’ve beautified my life with your grace and embraced me with your loving-kindness. I thank you, Lord, for your personal love for me, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Zephaniah 3:17; The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing.
Ephesians 2:10; For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus unto good works, which God hath before ordained that we should walk in them.
Deuteronomy 14:2; For thou art an holy people unto the LORD thy God, and the LORD hath chosen thee to be a peculiar people unto himself, above all the nations that are upon the earth.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 23:12-35 & Job 40-42
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 4:12-20 & Isaiah 35
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SAT. 13TH JULY 2024
THE SPIRIT OF TRUTH HAS BEEN POURED OUT
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And I will pray the Father, and he shall give you another Comforter, that he may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you (John 14:16-17).
Pastor Chris Says
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When Jesus spoke of the Holy Spirit, He called Him the Spirit of truth (John 14:17, John 15:26, John 16:13). So when the Bible says in Joel 2:28, “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh...” it meant the Spirit of truth would be poured out upon all flesh, upon the nations. This happened in Acts 2:1-11.
So, today, in this Church age, the Spirit of truth is at work. We live and function by the Spirit of truth. The Bible says the lying tongue is only for a short time; it can never be successful. In this day of the Church where the Spirit of truth has been released and poured out, He’s at work throughout the whole world.
Through our preaching of the Gospel and intercession for the nations, we release truth into all nations and deception can’t stand against the power of truth. The day of deception will come, when the whole world will be deceived, but that’s after the rapture of the Church.
But this is our day, and the Gospel shall have free course in every nation. The spirit of truth must prevail in every land and in every heart until all whom God has appointed unto salvation have come into the Kingdom. This is the day of God’s grace, where Truth must gain the ascendancy. Remember, His Word is truth (John 17:17). Therefore, keep proclaiming God’s truths with boldness always and in every place.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the Spirit of truth by whose ministry in every nation deception is being decimated. As the Church boldly proclaims and propagates the truth of the Gospel, it penetrates the hearts and minds of men, inspiring faith and resulting in salvation and increased knowledge of your Word, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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John 15:26; But when the Comforter is come, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me:
John 16:13; Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 21:37-22:1-21 & Job 32-35
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 3:23-29 & Isaiah 33
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 THURS. 11TH JULY 2024
PROTECT YOUR LOVE FOR HIM
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And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us (Romans 5:5).
Pastor Chris Says
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In Revelation 2:25, the Lord tells us something quite thought-provoking. He says, “But that which ye have already hold fast till I come.” We just read in our opening scripture that His love has been shed abroad in our heart. That means you have to protect your love for Him, because you could lose it.
It helps to understand why He tells us to guard our hearts with all diligence, because His love is in your heart. The Lord won’t ask you to protect what you’ve received from Him if there isn’t the possibility of losing it. For example, people receive healing and after some time, maybe due to carelessness, sin or unbelief, they lose the healing.
As a Christian, it’s important you stay in the Word. Remember the words of the Master, “If ye love me, keep my commandments” (John 14:15). By keeping His Word, you demonstrate your love for the Lord. Every day presents opportunities for you to live out the Word, keep the faith, and maintain your confession of who Jesus is and all He means to you.
Nothing should ever make you take your gaze off the Master. He’s all that truly matters. Protect your love for Him and your passion for the Gospel. Keep preaching His love to those around you who haven’t yet known Him. Keep interceding for them until they receive salvation.
Let nothing stand in the way of your service in the house of God. Give no room for offence, malice or bitterness. Hebrews 12:15 says, “Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled.”
There have been some Christians who were doing so well, loving the Lord and leading others to Christ, but suddenly they became cold and even stopped going to church because someone offended them. No! Let nothing quench your fire. Colossians 3:23-24 says, “And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ.”
The end of all things is near. Maintain your passion for the Lord and keep producing fruits of righteousness; there’s a crown of glory waiting for you at the end.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the boundless love you have lavishly poured into my heart through the Holy Spirit. I guard this love diligently, keeping my focus on you and your Word as I spread your love and the Gospel to all, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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2 Corinthians 5:14-15; For the love of Christ constraineth us; because we thus judge, that if one died for all, then were all dead:
[15] and that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again.
1 Corinthians 16:22; If any man love not the Lord Jesus Christ, let him be Anathema Maran-atha.
John 14:15 AMPC; If you [really] love Me, you will keep (obey) My commands.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 21:1-16 & Job 25-28
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 3:1-12 & Isaiah 31
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 TUES. 9TH JULY 2024
NOT REDEEMED OR DELIVERED
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Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new (2 Corinthians 5:17).
Pastor Chris Says
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When we say the new creation isn’t the “redeemed” or wasn’t “delivered” from sin or Satan, many don’t understand it. When the Bible talks about redemption, like you find in Luke 1:68, which says, “Blessed be the Lord God of Israel; for he hath visited and redeemed his people”; it’s a reference to the Jews.
The Jews were the ones that needed to be redeemed because they were under the curse of the law. So when Paul says, “Christ hath redeemed us from the curse of the law…” (Galatians 3:13), it’s important not to be misled by his generic use of the word “us.” Paul was speaking as a Jew.
The Gentiles weren’t redeemed from the curse of the Law because they were never under the Law. That’s why in Ephesians 4:17-18, the Gentiles are described as being alienated from God and strangers to the covenant of promise, having no hope and without God in the world.
But thanks be unto God; in Christ Jesus, both the Jews and the Gentiles have been brought together to make one new man that’s neither a Jew nor a Gentile; that’s the new creature (Ephesians 2:14). This new creature is a brand new man that never existed before as read in our theme scripture. The new creature is a new species, and this is where you belong in Christ.
So, being born again, you were born into a newness of life. You have the life of Christ now. You don’t have a past to be redeemed or delivered from, for your old nature, the life you had before you were born again, was supplanted by Christ’s divine nature. Now you walk in newness of life (Romans 6:4). Glory to God!
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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I’m a new creature in Christ Jesus, with the life and nature of God! I have the resurrection life. I’m not the redeemed, I’m not the delivered; I’m a brand new man that never existed before, living the transcendent life of the Spirit. Blessed be God.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Romans 6:4; Therefore we are buried with him by baptism into death: that like as Christ was raised up from the dead by the glory of the Father, even so we also should walk in newness of life.
Ephesians 2:4-6; But God, who is rich in mercy, for his great love wherewith he loved us,
[5] even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) [6] and hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 20:1-16 & Job 19-21
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 2:3-12 & Isaiah 29
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SUN. 7TH JULY 2024
KNOW THE TRUTH AND LIVE IN GLORY
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And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free (John 8:32).
Pastor Chris Says
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It’s sad to know that the victorious, prosperous and joyous life in Christ is still elusive to many. Yet, the vicarious sacrifice of the Lord Jesus in our behalf ushered us into the transcendent life. His sufferings brought us into a life of glory (1 Peter 1:11). Some aren’t even aware that there’s such an inheritance in Christ; they think everybody else is suffering the way they are; no! There’re those of us who have found out the truth and therefore are living the higher life in Christ.
God said in Hosea 4:6, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge….” The Bible says, “…through knowledge shall the just be delivered” (Proverbs 11:9). No wonder the Spirit, through Paul, prays “...that ye might be filled with the knowledge of his will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; That ye might walk worthy of the Lord unto all pleasing, being fruitful in every good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:9-10).
I admonish you to make the Word of God your stay; live in the Word. Isaiah 26:3 says, “Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee.” Make the choice, the deliberate choice, to believe God’s Word, meditate on it, and live accordingly.
The result is that the Lord will keep you in perfect peace; you’ll live in prosperity, with dominion over crises and adversities. 2 Peter 1:2 talks about grace and peace being multiplied in your life through the knowledge of God and of Jesus our Lord. Get to know the Lord through His eternal Word and live in glory as His grace and peace with prosperity are multiplied in your life.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I choose to immerse myself in your Word, knowing that through knowledge, I’m empowered to live triumphantly every day, functioning from the vantage position of rest and victory. I anchor my mind on your Word, and I live in your grace, peace and prosperity. Thank you Lord for the victorious life you have called me to live, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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2 Peter 1:2; grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord,
1 Peter 1:10-11; Of which salvation the prophets have enquired and searched diligently, who prophesied of the grace that should come unto you:
[11] searching what, or what manner of time the Spirit of Christ which was in them did signify, when it testified beforehand the sufferings of Christ, and the glory that should follow.
Joshua 1:8 AMPC; This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 18:24-19:1-7 & Job 12-14
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Galatians 1:10-17 & Isaiah 27
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 FRI. 5TH JULY 2024
“FEELING GOOD” DOESN’T MEAN BEING BLESSED
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For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh (Philippians 3:3).
Pastor Chris Says
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I love the Word of God! It’s always so clear as to how we’re to live our lives, how to serve and worship the Lord. Ponder for a moment what we just read in our theme scripture. It says we’re the circumcision that worship God in the spirit and have no confidence in the flesh. In other words, our worship has nothing to do with “feelings” or the manifestations of the flesh.
Some people sing certain songs that only make them “feel good,” and they think they’re being blessed. Any unscriptural song, no matter how good it makes you feel, doesn’t bring any improvement to your life.
For example, the song “The power, the power, the Pentecostal power is still here today….” If you like, sing it and “shake” and think you’re being blessed; you’re not. The Bible doesn’t say anything about “Pentecostal power”; there’s no such thing as Pentecostal power.
But a good number of Christians sing such songs because it makes them “feel good.” Feeling good and being blessed aren’t the same. When you’re blessed, your life is improved. You can feel good without your life being improved.
Some go to church looking forward to music that makes them dance. So, they dance and dance until they’re drenched in sweat, thinking they’re praising God. Such dancing in the flesh may make you feel good; it doesn’t mean you’re blessed and that God accepts it.
True worship is of the spirit and in the spirit, not in the flesh. Recall what we read in our theme verse. It parallels the words of the Lord Jesus in John 4:23, “But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.” Notice the Master didn’t say, “The Father seeks those who will dance with all their might and sweat on the dance floor.” True worship is done according to the Word of God and by the Holy Spirit.
So when you praise God, let your heart be attuned to Him. Offer to Him words that glorify His Name—words that are consistent with His person, His character and love, His grace, tender-mercies, holiness, righteousness and greatness. That’s what blesses you and brings transformation to your life.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for the privilege, blessing and opportunities to worship you in spirit and in truth, with a heart that is aligned with your Word and your will. What an honour it is to offer words of praise that glorify your Name; you’re the great King of all, the only true and righteous God. I love you now and always. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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John 4:23-24; But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the Father in spirit and in truth: for the Father seeketh such to worship him.
[24] God is a Spirit: and they that worship him must worship him in spirit and in truth.
Psalm 95:6; O come, let us worship and bow down: Let us kneel before the LORD our maker.
Colossians 3:16; 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.
Hebrews 13:15; By him therefore let us offer the sacrifice of praise to God continually, that is, the fruit of our lips giving thanks to his name.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 17:16-34 & Job 6-8
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 13:7-14 & Isaiah 25
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 WED. 3RD JULY 2024
GOD SAW IT
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And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ (Colossians 3:23-24).
Pastor Chris Says
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How do you live your life every day? Are you aware that all your actions, including the thoughts of your heart, are seen by God? So, you may have done something that you thought no one noticed, but God saw it. He sees everything.
That’s why the Bible says when we serve, we should serve as unto the Lord and not unto men. Those around you may not notice your hard work and diligence, but God sees it. He knows.
Imagine that you worked as an attendant in a restaurant, and every day, you took some food home without the knowledge of your employer. But in your mind, you thought, “It’s leftovers anyway; moreover, nobody saw me take it.” God saw you!
What does God think about such actions? They’re wrong. It’s like when you work in an organization and then you muddle things up and hide them from your boss; but you can’t hide them from God. Everything you do must be unto the Lord.
If you know that something isn’t right and you present it as though it’s right, the Bible says, to you, it is sin (James 4:17). Make up your mind that you’d be forthright, and walk uprightly at all times, irrespective of who’s watching. The most important thing is that God is watching. The Bible says, “Neither is there any creature that is not manifest in his sight: but all things are naked and opened unto the eyes of him with whom we have to do” (Hebrews 4:13).
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you, and keep your Word, knowing that you shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing. I live each day with integrity, honesty and sincerity of heart, doing everything as unto you and not unto men. I please you always in and by the Word, in my thoughts, words and actions, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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Proverbs 15:3 MSG; God doesn’t miss a thing— he’s alert to good and evil alike.
Psalm 139:1-4; O LORD, thou hast searched me, and known me.
[2] Thou knowest my downsitting and mine uprising, thou understandest my thought afar off.
[3] Thou compassest my path and my lying down, And art acquainted with all my ways.
[4] For there is not a word in my tongue, But, lo, O LORD, thou knowest it altogether.
Ecclesiastes 12:14; For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 16:16-40 & Job 1-2
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 12:11-21 & Isaiah 22
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 15:22-35 & Esther 5-7
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 11:10-33 & Isaiah 20
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SUN. 30TH JUNE 2024
WISDOM WITH INCREASED CAPACITY
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And that from a child thou hast known the holy scriptures, which are able to make thee wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus (2 Timothy 3:15).
Pastor Chris Says
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The wisdom of God is encapsulated in His Word; it is all-encompassing and will guide you through every aspect of life. Proverbs 4:7 emphasizes the importance of wisdom and making it the primary pursuit in your life. It says, "Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding."
The Scriptures, as read in our theme verse, have the unique ability to make us wise unto salvation. It’s one reason you must meditate on the Word. Joshua 1:8 AMPC says, “This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.”
Notice that it says meditating on the Word will make you prosperous and cause you to deal wisely; that means it’ll make you discerning and sound. Colossians 3:16, "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."
As you immerse yourself in the Word, digesting its truths and allowing it to permeate your spirit, the Word will make you several steps wiser and broaden your capacity and capability. It reminds of what the Bible says in 2 Peter 1:2, “Grace and peace be multiplied unto you through the knowledge of God, and of Jesus our Lord.”
Multiplied or increased grace means God can entrust you with even greater responsibilities because you’re wiser. He knows that as a result of His wisdom at work in you, you’ll make sound judgments and choices.
📖 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for the wisdom found in your Word. As I give attention to the Scriptures, I open myself to a continuous impartation of divine wisdom. The Word guides my choices and actions. I have uncommon insight; a clear, deep and sudden understanding of concepts, subjects, situations and mysteries, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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Joshua 1:8 AMPC; This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.
1 Corinthians 1:30; But of him are ye in Christ Jesus, who of God is made unto us wisdom, and righteousness, and sanctification, and redemption:
Colossians 3:16 NLT; Let the message about Christ, in all its richness, fill your lives. Teach and counsel each other with all the wisdom he gives. Sing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs to God with thankful hearts.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 15:1-21 & Esther 1-4
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 11:1-9 & Isaiah 19
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 FRI. 28TH JUNE 2024
BUILDING SPIRITUAL SENSITIVITY
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Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path (Psalm 119:105).
Pastor Chris Says
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There’re many who are ignorant of spiritual matters, and for that reason, they’re buffeted by the crises of life and walk on in confusion. So, it’s important to build your spiritual sensitivity. For that to happen, you've got to study and understand the Word, to know the mind of God.
2 Timothy 2:15 says, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth." Also, as you study the Word, train yourself to act on it promptly. This should be natural for every Christian because we’re doers of the Word (James 1:22).
By responding promptly to the Word of God, you condition your spirit to recognize the effect of the Word in your life. That way, when you face challenges, you respond with the Word; you voice your faith. This practice trains your spirit to consistently align and respond to God rather than succumbing to the dictates of the flesh.
Also, in training yourself to be more spiritually sensitive you must be filled with the Spirit every day. Incorporate praying in the Spirit into your spiritual routine. 1 Corinthians 14:14 says, “For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.”
Praying in tongues or praying in the Spirit enhances your spiritual sensitivity as it involves the Holy Spirit providing utterance to your spirit. When you speak in tongues, it’s the Holy Spirit guiding your spirit's expressions. Your spirit, through this process, learns to function under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, contributing significantly to an increased sensitivity to God's leading.
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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As I study and meditate on the Word, my spirit is conditioned to respond swiftly to God’s guidance, promptings, ideas and thoughts. Also, my spiritual sensitivity is increased and heightened because I’m full of the Spirit always, praying in the Holy Ghost. I’m perceptive, insightful, filled with the Spirit of wisdom for revelation, to know and walk in the perfect will of God today and always, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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James 1:22;But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.
Ephesians 5:18-20; And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit;
[19] speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord;
[20] giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ;
1 Corinthians 14:2 & 13-15; For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.
[13] Wherefore let him that speaketh in an unknown tongue pray that he may interpret.
[14] For if I pray in an unknown tongue, my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.
[15] What is it then? I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 13:13-52 & Nehemiah 9-10
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 10:1-7 & Isaiah 17
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
(His return).
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 12 & Nehemiah 4-6
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 9:1-10 & Isaiah 14
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 TUES. 25TH JUNE 2024
GIVE VALUE TO YOUR RESOURCES
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But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you (Matthew 6:33).
Pastor Chris Says
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The way to give value and direction to your resources is to invest them in the Kingdom of God. Outside of the Kingdom of God, money holds little significance. There isn't anyone who doesn't have money. Do you know why? Because everything holds value—everything has worth.
That means currency isn’t the real money; it’s just what is used in measuring the real money. Therefore, in a sense, everything is money. Once you comprehend this, you'll realise that God has bestowed upon you the wisdom to manage finances.
The reason those who are labelled wealthy seem to have the advantage over those termed as poor is due to their understanding of this mystery. Once you gain the same understanding, suddenly you’ll start seeing value in everything that God gives you. Everything that God gives you suddenly has power, and then you discover you can do anything and have anything.
With this understanding, the words of the Lord Jesus will mean more to you. He said, “…Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature” (Mark 16:15). Commit your resources to this. Make it possible for more and more people to receive God’s Word by sponsoring the distribution of Bibles and Rhapsody of Realities around the world.
Make it your mission to take the Gospel to every man’s world. This is the way to expand your reach for the Kingdom and make a quick and lasting impact.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the wisdom to understand the true value of the resources you’ve given to me; I’m conscious that you’ve made all grace abound towards me so that I’m divinely enabled to give immensely towards Kingdom expansion. I utilise the abundance you've provided for your Kingdom's advancement. I’ll steward my resources effectively, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
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📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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2 Corinthians 9:8-11; And God is able to make all grace abound toward you; that ye, always having all sufficiency in all things, may abound to every good work:
[9] (As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: His righteousness remaineth for ever.
[10] Now he that ministereth seed to the sower both minister bread for your food, and multiply your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)
[11] being enriched in every thing to all bountifulness, which causeth through us thanksgiving to God.
Luke 6:38; give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.
Philippians 4:15-17; Now ye Philippians know also, that in the beginning of the gospel, when I departed from Macedonia, no church communicated with me as concerning giving and receiving, but ye only.
[16] For even in Thessalonica ye sent once and again unto my necessity.
[17] Not because I desire a gift: but I desire fruit that may abound to your account.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 11:19-30 & Nehemiah 1-3
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 8:18-24 & Isaiah 13
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 MON. 24TH JUNE 2024
UNDERSTANDING IS IMPORTANT
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...the LORD giveth wisdom: out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding (Proverbs 2:6).
Pastor Chris Says
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In Proverbs 4:7, the Bible says, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” It points attention to wisdom as the most important thing that you should go for, not money, not friends, but wisdom. Then it says in the concluding part, “…with all thy getting get understanding.” And that’s what I want to emphasize: understanding!
Understanding is important. In verse 8, referring to understanding, it says, “Exalt her, and she shall promote thee: she shall bring thee to honour, when thou dost embrace her.” So, do you want promotion? Then you need to exalt understanding, and she shall promote you and bring you to honour. The 9th verse is also beautiful and further refers to what understanding will do for you: “She shall give to thine head an ornament of grace: a crown of glory shall she deliver to thee.” Understanding will crown you with glory. Hallelujah!
Even the Lord Jesus taught on how important understanding is when He told and explained the parable of the sower in Luke 8:5-15 (study the entire reference). In verse 12, He explained that as the sower sowed his seed (the seed is the Word of God), those that fell on the wayside “…are they that hear; then cometh the devil, and taketh away the word out of their hearts….”
But Matthew gave us a better insight into what really happened to such individuals; the reason the devil was able to steal the Word from their hearts is because they lacked understanding: “Hear ye therefore the parable of the sower. When any one heareth the word of the kingdom, and understandeth it not, then cometh the wicked one, and catcheth away that which was sown in his heart. This is he which received seed by the way side” (Matthew 13:18-19).
See how terrible it is not to understand the Word of God? Even Wisdom extolled understanding; read what Wisdom says in Proverbs 8:14, “Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength." Here, Wisdom is talking and says, “I am understanding.” Amazing!
Anchor your life on the Word of God—the wisdom of God—and give attention to understanding. Christ is in you; He’s your wisdom. Therefore, you have an understanding heart and mind. The Bible says it is given unto you to understand the Word of God, the mysteries of the Kingdom. Therefore, every so often, declare, “I’m filled with the knowledge of God’s will in all wisdom, and spiritual understanding.” Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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I am filled with the knowledge of God's will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding. The understanding of the Word elevates, promotes and brings me honour; it crowns me with glory, and with it, I live triumphantly, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Proverbs 8:14-20; Counsel is mine, and sound wisdom: I am understanding; I have strength.
[15] By me kings reign, And princes decree justice.
[16] By me princes rule, And nobles, even all the judges of the earth.
[17] I love them that love me; And those that seek me early shall find me.
[18] Riches and honour are with me; Yea, durable riches and righteousness.
[19] My fruit is better than gold, yea, than fine gold; And my revenue than choice silver.
[20] I lead in the way of righteousness, In the midst of the paths of judgment:
Luke 8:5-15; A sower went out to sow his seed: and as he sowed, some fell by the way side; and it was trodden down, and the fowls of the air devoured it.
[6] And some fell upon a rock; and as soon as it was sprung up, it withered away, because it lacked moisture.
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SAT. 22ND JUNE 2024
INCREASING HIS GLORY IN YOUR LIFE
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And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge after the image of him that created him (Colossians 3:10).
Pastor Chris Says
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The Lord Jesus said in Matthew 5:14-16, "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." So, you can let your light shine as brightly as you want; it’s up to you.
Isaiah 60:1 says, “Arise, shine; for thy light is come, and the glory of the LORD is risen upon thee.” The Lord Jesus said in John 17:22, “And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them....” God made you the expression of His glory. But what is glory?
Glory is great honour, praise or distinction. It’s majestic beauty and splendour, resplendence, excellence. So, when God made man, He made him for glory, and everything about man was praiseworthy. But did you know that you have a mission, a divine assignment, to increase and manifest the glory of God in your life? Each one of us carries the glory of God to a certain measure, and how brightly we manifest that glory is within our control.
Our opening verse gives us an idea of how this happens. Let’s read it again, this time, from the Amplified Classic version. It says, “And have clothed yourselves with the new [spiritual self], which is [ever in the process of being] renewed and remolded into [fuller and more perfect knowledge upon] knowledge after the image (the likeness) of Him Who created it.”
The word "knowledge" in the verse above is the Greek "epignosis," and it means exact or precise knowledge of God. It means full comprehension, recognition or perception; to become fully acquainted with God. This is the knowledge He seeks for us to have of Him.
With this knowledge, the glory in your life increases, and your efficiency, effectiveness and results multiply; your spirit is continually renewed, refreshed and polished. Your spirit glows more and more as you deepen your relationship with Him. Colossians 3:16 says, “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly....” Have the Word of God in you in abundance through diligent study and meditation, and your life will become more glorious. Praise God!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for your glory in my life, which continually increases as I study and meditate on your Word. That glory radiates through my being, making me competent, resourceful, more efficient and effective. I’m continually renewed and refreshed, greatly manifesting the fruits and works of righteousness, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY :
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2 Corinthians 3:18; 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.
Joshua 1:8 AMPC; This Book of the Law shall not depart out of your mouth, but you shall meditate on it day and night, that you may observe and do according to all that is written in it. For then you shall make your way prosperous, and then you shall deal wisely and have good success.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 10:1-23 & Ezra 4-6
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: 2 Corinthians 7:9-16 & Isaiah 9
Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional