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EXCERPTS from Rhapsody of Realities Dailies
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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 FRI. 23RD JUNE 2023
THE POWER OF PRAYER
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Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much (James 5:16).
Pastor Chris Says
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There's no hopeless situation that we can't change through prayer. Read our theme scripture in the Amplified Classic; it says, "...The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]." Our prayers are not empty.
Think about Paul and Silas for a moment. They were captured, beaten, and thrown into a dungeon with their feet clamped in stocks. But the Bible records in Acts 16:25-26 that: "... at midnight Paul and Silas prayed, and sang praises unto God: and the prisoners heard them. And suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken: and immediately all the doors were opened, and every one's bands were loosed."
How remarkable this is! Two men prayed and sang praises to God, and there was an earthquake! How loud could they have been singing for their voices to have caused an earthquake and broken off all the prisoners' chains? It lets you know that it certainly wasn't the volume of their singing; it was the power of their prayer!
There's nothing you can't change through prayer. Therefore, make prayer a major feature in your life and a major part of your daily routine. It will strengthen you and help you maintain focus even in the face of the toughest temptations and persecutions.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the privilege to pray and side with you to enforce your will in the earth and in the lives of men. Even now, I declare peace, progress and prosperity for the nations of the world, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Ephesians 6:18 AMPC; Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God's consecrated people).
Romans 8:26-27; Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.
27. And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God.
Luke 18:1; And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 10:24-48 & Ezra 7-8
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 3:12-22 & Deuteronomy 21
EXCERPTS from Rhapsody of Realities Dailies
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 WED. 21ST JUNE 2023
FELLOWSHIP OF THE HEAVENLY PANTHEON
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God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord (1 Corinthians 1:9).
Pastor Chris Says
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I'm ever so grateful to the Lord for all that He's made possible and available to us in Christ Jesus. Think about the possibility of fellowship with God. You wouldn't find that in any religion, as no religion offers you fellowship with God. But Jesus brought us into fellowship with God. What an amazing reality!
In our prayers, for example, there're special kinds of communications with God that help us build our spirits, because we're in a rich fellowship with the Lord. The Bible says in 1 John 1:3, "That which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ."
Also, 1 Corinthians 1:9 says, "God is faithful, by whom ye were called unto the fellowship of his Son Jesus Christ our Lord." The Apostle Peter takes it further in 2 Peter 1:3-4. He says, "According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue: Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature..."
The Greek word that's translated "partakers" comes from the same root word as fellowship; it's "Koinonia." Thus, "partakers of the divine nature" is translated from "koinonos theias phuseos," and that means associates of the God-kind. This implies that we've been brought into the fellowship of the divine, heavenly pantheon.
No wonder the Bible says, "... Ye are gods..." (Psalm 82:6). The Lord Jesus, quoting the psalms, reiterated this truth in John 10:34, "...Is it not written in your law, I said, Ye are gods?" This is the wonder of Christianity; it's the whole essence of the Lord's death, burial and His glorious resurrection.
How beautiful it is to know that we're in fellowship with the Sovereign King, the Monarch of the universe, as John so succinctly puts it in 1 John 1:3. You've been translated from the ordinary realm of mankind to the supernatural class of the God-kind, where you can enjoy true, deep and quality fellowship and union with divinity. What a blessing!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the vital nature of divinity and the inseparable oneness with you that I have in Christ. What an honour, blessing and privilege to be in fellowship with the blessed and only Potentate, the Monarch of the universe and only true and righteous God!
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2 Corinthians 13:14 AMPC; The grace (favor and spiritual blessing) of the Lord Jesus Christ and the love of God and the presence and fellowship (the communion and sharing together, and participation) in the Holy Spirit be with you all. Amen (so be it).
1 John 1:1-3; That which was from the beginning, which we have heard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the Word of life;
2. (for the life was manifested, and we have seen it, and bear witness, and shew unto you that eternal life, which was with the Father, and was manifested unto us;)
3. that which we have seen and heard declare we unto you, that ye also may have fellowship with us: and truly our fellowship is with the Father, and with his Son Jesus Christ.
1 Corinthians 6:17; But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 9:32-43 & Ezra 1-3
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 2:41-52 & Deuteronomy 19
EXCERPT from Rhapsody of Realities Dailies
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 MON. 19TH JUNE 2023
YOU'RE HIS GLORY
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That the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him (Ephesians 1:17).
Pastor Chris Says
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In this beautiful prayer for the Ephesian church, the Apostle Paul referred to our heavenly Father as the "Father of glory." That's quite instructive. He isn't saying that God is a "glorious Father," but that He's the Father of glory. It tells you who you are; you are "Glory!" That's your Name.
If a man is called the father of John, then it means he has a son called John. If God is the Father of Glory, and you're His son (1 John 3:1), then your name is "Glory!" You might say, "Pastor Chris, that's just a conjecture"; no! What is Jesus called?
Hebrews 1:3 says He's the brightness of God's glory, and the express image of His person. Jesus is the effulgence of God's glory; He's the manifestation of the glory of God. Jesus is the glory of God encapsulated in a body. And the Bible says in 1 John 4:17 that as He is, so are we in this world.
Making us His glory is part of what He came to do. Hebrews 2:10 says, "For it became him, for whom are all things, and by whom are all things, in bringing many sons unto glory..." Hallelujah!
Then 2 Corinthians 3:18 (AMPC) tells us something remarkable. It says, "And all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendour...." Observe that it says the Word of God is a mirror, just as James also tells us in James 1:23.
But here's the most beautiful part: When you look in a mirror, you see yourself. Now, 2 Corinthians 3:18 says when you look in the mirror of God, you see the glory of God. How can you see the glory of God in the mirror, if you are not the glory of God? Every good mirror reflects or projects the image before it. If your reflection is called the glory of God when you look into the mirror of God (the Word of God), then you are the glory of God. Praise God!
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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The life and glory of God are manifested in and through me. I saturate and impact my world with the Lord's goodness, kindness, beauty and grace. The glory that I see when I look into the mirror-the Word-is who I am. Hallelujah!
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Romans 8:30; Moreover whom he did predestinate, them he also called: and whom he called, them he also justified: and whom he justified, them he also glorified.
Isaiah 55:5; Behold, thou shalt call a nation that thou knowest not, and nations that knew not thee shall run unto thee because of the LORD thy God, and for the Holy One of Israel; for he hath glorified thee.
John 17:22; And the glory which thou gavest me I have given them; that they may be one, even as we are one:
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 8:9-40 & 2 Chronicles 33-34
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 2:21-32 & Deuteronomy 17
EXCEPTS from Rhapsody Dailies
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SAT. 17TH JUNE 2023
PRAISING HIM-OUR CALLING
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Sing praises to God, sing praises: sing praises unto our King, sing praises. For God is the King of all the earth: sing ye praises with understanding (Psalm 47:6-7).
Pastor Chris Says
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The scriptures give us more than enough information on God's relationship with us and how He defines His role as God, as Lord, and as our Father. In each of these roles, He expresses Himself differently. He also wants us to know our role: the various roles we play with respect to Him, His Kingdom, one another, and the world.
However, in every single role that we play, He expects us to praise Him. Thus, the primary reason we come together as God's people is to offer praises to God. For a long time, this seemed to have taken a back seat in the Church, but thank God there's been a change!
God's people all over the world, by the Spirit, are recognizing their role as priests to offer sacrifices of praise to God. That's our primary calling. He said in 1 Peter 2:9, "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light."
When we live according to our calling to offer praise to the Lord- extolling His greatness and worshipping His holy Name-we will most certainly enjoy the fullness of the blessings of the Gospel of Christ as Paul puts it in Romans 15:29. It's God's will for us.
Even now, begin to praise the Lord! Remember, praise must have content; therefore, offer to the Lord words of praise and thanksgiving; make confessions of His greatness, grace and glory. Declare that there's none like Him, for His Kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and His dominion endures from generation to generation. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear heavenly Father, you're great and greatly to be praised, for there's none like you; your Kingdom is forever, and your reign is eternal! You're the only true and wise God. To you be all glory, honour, majesty, dominion and praise, forever and ever. Amen.
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Psalm 69:30-31; I will praise the name of God with a song, And will magnify him with thanksgiving.
31. This also shall please the LORD Better than an ox or bullock that hath horns and hoofs.
Hebrews 13:15 AMPC; Through Him, therefore, let us constantly and at all times offer up to God a sacrifice of praise, which is the fruit of lips that thankfully acknowledge and confess and glorify His name.
Psalm 147:1; Praise ye the LORD: For it is good to sing praises unto our God; For it is pleasant; and praise is comely.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 7:1-53 & 2 Chronicles 29-30
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 2:1-7 & Deuteronomy 15
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 THURS. 15TH JUNE 2023
BANISH ANGER
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Make no friendship with an angry man; and with a furious man thou shalt not go (Proverbs 22:24).
Pastor Chris Says
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There're many things that could deface one's beauty in the spirit, one of them is anger. Our opening verse says, "Don't hang out with angry people; don't keep company with hotheads" (MSG). In other words, avoid them. When God tells you to avoid something or someone, you better take it seriously.
You might say, "I only get angry once in a while"; no! Anger is a quick destroyer, avoid it! Don't even try to "tame" it; banish it. If you've been termed or described as someone who's hotheaded and quick to anger, get before the Lord in prayer and ask the Holy Spirit to help you deal with anger. Then give yourself to the Word in meditation.
Don't try to suppress anger; get rid of it. You may say to me, "Pastor Chris; I've always had anger in me since I was much younger, and by following God all through the years, I've been able to suppress my anger with the Word." That's wonderful, but God doesn't want you at that level. It's not a matter of suppressing the anger with the Word, it's a matter of not even allowing anger any space in your life.
Harbouring anger has resulted in some deadly ailments and unexplainable challenges in the health of many people. But I tell you, if they'd eschew anger, they'll be healthy. The Bible says anger dwells in the bosom of fools (Ecclesiastes 7:9). And in Psalm 107:17, who does the Bible say are afflicted? Fools! "Fools because of their transgression, and because of their iniquities, are afflicted."
The scriptures are replete with verses that admonish us against anger. In Psalm 37:8 (CEV), the Bible says, "Don't be angry or furious. Anger can lead to sin." Paul, in Ephesians 4:31 (AMPC) warns, "Let all bitterness and indignation and wrath (passion, rage, bad temper) and resentment (anger, animosity)...be banished from you...."
In Colossians 3:8, he also tells us, "But now ye also put off all these; anger, wrath, malice, blasphemy, filthy communication out of your mouth." Banish anger from your life.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I eschew and purge from my heart all elements of anger, bitterness, rage or fury; anger has no place in me. I delight myself in your Word and in doing your will always. The Word is in my heart, causing me to walk in righteousness and fulfil my destiny in you. I live by your Word, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
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Psalm 37:8; Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: Fret not thyself in any wise to do evil.
Proverbs 14:29; He that is slow to wrath is of great understanding: But he that is hasty of spirit exalteth folly.
Proverbs 22:24-25; Make no friendship with an angry man; And with a furious man thou shalt not go:
25. Lest thou learn his ways, And get a snare to thy soul.
Ephesians 4:31; Let all bitterness, and wrath, and anger, and clamour, and evil speaking, be put away from you, with all malice:
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 5:12-42 & 2 Chronicles 23-25
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 1:57-66 & Deuteronomy 13
EXCERPT from Rhapsody of Realities Dailies
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 TUES. 13TH JUNE 2023
IT BEGINS WITH THE MIND
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In conclusion, my friends, fill your minds with those things that are good and that deserve praise: things that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and honorable (Philippians 4:8 GNB).
Pastor Chris Says
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The Bible says, "Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee: because he trusteth in thee" (Isaiah 26:3). The Hebrew word translated "peace" is "Shalom"; It doesn't just mean peace in terms of quietness; it also stands for health, prosperity and rest. It refers to the rest of God with prosperity, health, strength and salvation.
However, these things are essentially determined by the content and quality of your mind. When your mind is stayed on the Lord and His Word, you'll experience perfect prosperity, health, rest, and strength. It's that simple.
Your mind is very important to God. That's where He seeks to work. If He can get a hold of your mind, you can be everything He wants you to be. You can become as healthy, prosperous, and successful as you ever want to be. So, it begins with the mind. Why is your mind so Important? It's because God has fashioned the mind as the instrument for your transformation.
The Bible says, "And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God" (Romans 12:2). There're no limits to what you can achieve, and absolutely no restrictions to how high you can propel yourself in the highway of victory when your mind is governed and regulated by the Word.
With your mind established on the Word, the possibilities are endless. So always fix your mind on the beautiful realities of the Word. It's an effective way to create the ideal framework and system for your life and make the most of the unique life and blessings God has given you.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, my mind is fixed on your Word and the transcendent realities of the Kingdom. Therefore, I walk in supernatural peace, with prosperity, health, strength and salvation. My mind is inundated with thoughts of progress and possibilities, and I experience higher levels of glory and victory, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Philippians 4:8 AMPC; For the rest, brethren, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of reverence and is honorable and seemly, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely and lovable, whatever is kind and winsome and gracious, if there is any virtue and excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think on and weigh and take account of these things [fix your minds on them].
Romans 12:2; And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.
Isaiah 26:3 AMPC; You will guard him and keep him in perfect and constant peace whose mind [both its inclination and its character] is stayed on You, because he commits himself to You, leans on You, and hopes confidently in You.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 4:1-31 & 2 Chronicles 16-19
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 1:26-38 & Deuteronomy 11
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SUN. 11TH JUNE 2023
CUSTODIANS OF TRUTH
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Open ye the gates, that the righteous nation which keepeth the truth may enter in (Isaiah 26:2).
Pastor Chris Says
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I'Il like you to observe two things that qualify a nation to come into the gates of God. The first is righteousness. The second is that the nation must have and walk in the truth. What nation is this custodian and observer of the truth?
God's Word is Truth, and His truth was given to us in Christ Jesus. Thus, the Church of Christ is this nation that keeps the truth. Paul, writing to Timothy in 1 Timothy 3:15 called the house of God, which is the Church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. We belong in the Church which is the custodian of the truth. The Church is a righteous nation. We're God-like in true righteousness and holiness (Ephesians 4:24).
The Bible says, "For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him" (2 Corinthians 5:21). Everyone who has accepted Jesus as Lord and Saviour has been made righteous!
In Ephesians 4:24 (AMPC), Paul highlights that we were created in true righteousness and holiness: "And put on the new nature (the regenerate self) created in God's image, [Godlike] in true righteousness and holiness." If you walk with sin consciousness, you wouldn't know that you're righteous. But His gate is opened to the righteous ones-the Church! What a blessing!
Peter corroborates this in his first epistle when he called us a holy nation: "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God's] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light" (1 Peter 2:9 AMPC).
We're a peculiar nation, born in righteousness, producing fruits of righteousness, and proclaiming His truth in righteousness.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Righteous Father, your peace and prosperity reign in the nations of the world, as we, your Church, proclaim your truth and righteousness around the world. We overturn the structures, systems and schemes of satanic propagation of deception and fear across the nations, and we declare that your will be done in all the earth, as it is in heaven, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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3 John 1:3-4; For I rejoiced greatly, when the brethren came and testified of the truth that is in thee, even as thou walkest in the truth.
4. I have no greater joy than to hear that my children walk in truth.
1 Timothy 3:15; But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 2:22-47 & 2 Chronicles 8-11
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 1:1-10 & Deuteronomy 9
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 FRI. 9TH JUNE 2023
DEMONSTRATING YOUR RIGHTEOUSNESS IN GIVING
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Yes, God is more than ready to overwhelm you with every form of grace, so that you will have more than enough of everything -every moment and in every way. He will make you overflow with abundance in every good thing you do (2 Corinthians 9:8 TPT).
Pastor Chris Says
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One of the ways to live a life of influence, honour and impact in the Kingdom of God is to be a real giver, generous to the cause of the Gospel. It's so inspiring to see those who are filled with the utmost zeal to spread the Gospel into every nook and cranny of the world. See yourself as responsible for reaching everyone in your world and in regions beyond with the Gospel before the Lord's return.
Think about the impressive testimony of Rhapsody of Realities devotional being available in all known and active languages of the world, making it the most translated material in the whole world. This happened because many around the world made themselves available, giving their time and resources to see that billions of people can read the message of the Gospel in their native language. You can choose to be a part of this today.
The Bible says, "(As it is written, He hath dispersed abroad; he hath given to the poor: his righteousness remaineth for ever. 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)" (2 Corinthians 9:9-10).
Giving is righteousness, and by sowing seeds of righteousness, you produce fruits of righteousness. He says, "his righteousness remaineth forever." Yes, Christ has made you righteous, but there're fruits of righteousness and they come from your works of righteousness. Works of righteousness are seeds of righteousness, and being manifested primarily in your giving, they'll return in an abundant harvest. Amen.
📅 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for making all grace-every favour and earthly blessing-come to me in abundance so that I may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need, be self-sufficient, possessing enough to require no aid or support, furnished in abundance, for every good work, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Proverbs 3:9-10; Honour the LORD with thy substance, And with the firstfruits of all thine increase:
10. So shall thy barns be filled with plenty, And thy presses shall burst out with new wine.
Proverbs 11:24-25; There is that scattereth, and yet increaseth; And there is that withholdeth more than is meet, but it tendeth to poverty.
25. The liberal soul shall be made fat: And he that watereth shall be watered also himself.
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.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 1:1-26 & 2 Chronicles 1-4
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 16:1-11 & Deuteronomy 7
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 WED. 7TH JUNE 2023
COMMUNICATING THE GOSPEL EFFECTIVELY
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For a true servant of our Lord Jesus will not be argumentative but gentle toward all and skilled in helping others see the truth... (2 Timothy 2:24 TPT).
Pastor Chris Says
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I remember years ago, I was preaching to a class of little children less than ten years old. A trained child evangelist had invited me, and he stood at the back as I preached to the children. While sharing the Word with them, I turned over to the evangelist and saw him weeping profusely.
As I wondered why he was crying, he walked up to me and said, "You just preached Jesus, not only to these children in here, but also to me." My speech and my preaching to those kids weren't with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power (1 Corinthians 2:4).
As you grow in your Christian walk, it's important for you to know how to articulately and effectually communicate the Gospel. As a young preacher, that was one of my biggest concerns; knew if I didn't communicate right, people wouldn't hear me right. If they didn't hear me right, they wouldn't believe right. And if they didn't believe right, their faith would be in jeopardy.
To communicate the Gospel effectively, you have to first give yourself to the study of God's Word: "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15). When you study the Word and it gets into your spirit, it inspires, transforms, informs, educates, and cultures you.
Also, you have to trust the power of the Holy Spirit to help you convey the message in a way that'll transform lives. The Lord Jesus said, "He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water" (John 7:38). This refers to the Holy Spirit pouring out through you.
As the Word enjoins us to be filled with the Spirit, do accordingly. Ephesians 5:18-20 says, "And be not drunk with wine, wherein is excess; but be filled with the Spirit; Speaking to yourselves in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord; Giving thanks always for all things unto God and the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ."
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, your righteousness is revealed in and through me always. My words are conveyed in the power and wisdom of the Spirit, inspiring faith, hope and love in the hearts of my hearers, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
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2 Timothy 4:2; preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all longsuffering and doctrine.
1 Corinthians 2:4-5; And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
5. that your faith should not stand in the wisdom of men, but in the power of God.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 20:19-31 & 1 Chronicles 23-25
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 15:25-32 & Deuteronomy 5
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 MON. 5TH JUNE 2023
BEGIN WITH THE MESSAGE OF LOVE
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For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (John 3:16).
Pastor Chris Says
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When preaching the gospel, some Christmas focus primarily on the subject of sin, emphasizing the need for people to repent of their sins. The message of repentance was apt for the Jews because they were under the Law. What was required of them was to turn away from wrong when they sinned, unto God.
However, non-Jews-the Gentiles-had nothing to turn away from because they were never under the Law, which in itself was their condemnation. The Bible says, "For until the law sin was in the world: but sin is not imputed when there is no law" (Romans 5:13).
But then, the Bible says, "For all have sinned, and come short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23). This includes both Jews and Gentiles. If the Gentiles didn't break the Law because it wasn't given to them, where then was their sin?
We learn in the book of Genesis that when God created Adam and Eve, they were in the presence of a holy God. They lived in His glory. But they were cut off from that glory when Adam sinned against God.
Romans 5:19 says, "For as by one man's disobedience many were made sinners, so by the obedience of one shall many be made righteous." Through one man's offense, all men fell short of the glory, but now, in Christ, the glory is restored: "...Christ in you, the hope of glory" (Colossians 1:27). Hallelujah!
This is why your approach of the Gospel shouldn't begin with the issue of sin; rather, it should begin with the message of love. That's the key; that's how Jesus puts it in our opening scripture. Love was His motivation.
Notice in that verse that He said nothing about sin. That's the Gospel of Christ. It's a message of love and a message of life-the life and nature of God-that His death, burial and resurrection has made possible and available to everyone who believes.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for your love that's expressed, unveiled, and embraced as many all around the world hear and receive the true Gospel of Jesus Christ, and the resultant gift of righteousness. Today, they experience your steadfast and everlasting love and the glory of your grace, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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John 3:16 AMPC; For God so greatly loved and dearly prized the world that He [even] gave up His only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life.
2 Corinthians 5:19-21; to wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation.
20. Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God.
21. For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 19:17-42 & 1 Chronicles 17-19
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 15:1-14 & Deuteronomy 3
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SAT. 3RD JUNE 2023
TESTIFY OF HIS DEATH
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For as often as ye eat this bread, and drink this cup, ye do shew the Lord's death till he come (1 Corinthians 11:26).
Pastor Chris Says
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The synoptic Gospels, Matthew 26:26-28, Mark 14:22-24, and Luke 22:19-20 capture for us the words of Jesus the night He was betrayed. Luke 22:19-20 tells us, "And he took bread, and gave thanks, and brake it, and gave unto them, saying, This is my body which is given for you: this do in remembrance of me. Likewise also the cup after supper, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood, which is shed for you."
The Apostle Paul, by the Spirit, reiterated this in 1 Corinthians 11:23-26, part of which we read in our theme scripture. Notice the underlined word, "shew"; it's the Greek, "kataggello," which means to proclaim, declare, and make known. As often as you take communion, you're announcing, proclaiming, declaring, and making known the Lord's death. What's the benefit of that?
First, understand the significance of His blood-which we will forever talk about-that He shed for us; that's the blood that purges, cleanses and speaks for you when anything goes wrong. When we talk about "His blood," we're actually referring to His death.
1 John 2:2 says "And he is the propitiation for our sins: and not for ours only, but also for the sins of the whole world." He made a new will- the New Testament in His blood. And a will is of no effect until the testator dies. So, we proclaim His death because we know God raised Him from the dead. But He died that we might live. His death is the ratification of the will or testament of Jesus Christ, the Seed of Abraham and Son of God.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I'm forever grateful for the blood of Jesus Christ that was shed for me, which purges, cleanses, and rids me of all unrighteousness. Thank you for Christ's vicarious death in my behalf and by whose resurrection I'm now an associate of the God-kind, ushered into the divine life of unending victory, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Matthew 26:26-28; And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body.
27. And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;
28. for this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.
1 Corinthians 10:16; The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?
1 Corinthians 11:26 AMPC; For every time you eat this bread and drink this cup, you are representing and signifying and proclaiming the fact of the Lord's death until He comes [again].
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 18:1-27 & 1 Chronicles 11-13
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 14:53-65 & Deuteronomy 1
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
THURS. 1ST JUNE 2023
YOUR REVELATION OF THE GOSPEL
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For I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek (Romans 1:16).
Pastor Chris Says
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When you believed in Jesus Christ, you became a Christian and started living out your understanding of Christianity. Your life became a daily expression of your idea or perception of Christianity. Consciously or unconsciously, you became a reflection of your "gospel."
“My Gospel?” you may be wondering. Yes! Every one of us has a “Gospel.” Your gospel is your perception of Christ: who He is and what He came to do. You can’t live above your revelation of the Gospel. Whatever you believe about Jesus will affect your speech, thinking process, and outlook on life. You’ll see everything through your “Gospel screen,” as it were.
This is why it’s important to have an accurate knowledge of the Gospel of Christ. What’s your understanding of the Gospel? What’s your opinion of Christ? Who is He, and what do you believe about Him?
One of the things I did for myself in my early years was to ask myself, “What do you really believe about Jesus?” Using the Word of God, I began to probe my heart to find out what I truly believed about Jesus, and I wrote my answers in a notebook.
There’re things you need to address for yourself as a Christian because you can only give to others what you have. You may preach the Gospel to people, but have you preached it to “you”? Do you have personal convictions about it?
Paul said, “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” (Romans 1:16). Have you come to that conclusion about the Gospel? If you truly believe and understand the Gospel, you’ll preach it with fervour and urgency. You won’t spare anything to ensure it permeates your community, city, country, and every man’s world. Let your convictions of Christ drive you.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the privilege of taking the same message the apostles preached to my world. I have a clearer understanding of the Gospel, convinced that it’s the only hope and power there is for the salvation of men. I proclaim it with boldness today, to the praise and glory of your Name. Amen.
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1 Corinthians 1:17; For Christ sent me not to baptize, but to preach the gospel: not with wisdom of words, lest the cross of Christ should be made of none effect.
1 Corinthians 9:16; For though I preach the gospel, I have nothing to glory of: for necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!
Romans 2:16; in the day when God shall judge the secrets of men by Jesus Christ according to my gospel.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 16:17-33 & 1 Chronicles 7-8
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 14:32-42 & Numbers 35
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 TUES. 30TH MAY 2023
KNOWING WHO THE CHRISTIAN IS
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But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people... (1 Peter 2:9).
Pastor Chris Says
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You may read the four gospels and not get a picture of the Christian life and who the Christian really is. This is because the gospels don't completely give us the full picture of the life of Jesus after His resurrection. The account of His life before His ascension was very brief.
It's part of the reasons He told His disciples about the Holy Spirit -the Spirit of truth-who would show them things to come and guide them into all truth (John 16:12-13). Therefore, the most appropriate reference point for the Christian, as you study the New Testament, are the epistles.
Someone might ask, "How about the Book of Acts?" The Book of Acts is a catalogue of the acts of a baby Church. The Church in the Book of Acts had just started out in the Faith; so, it might not be the best expression of the Christian life, though it's a good place to start. But for deeper and greater insights into the life of God's new creature in Christ, you'd have to study the epistles!
For example, Paul's epistle to the Roman church-the Book of Romans-is an extraordinary exposition of the doctrine of the supremacy of Christ and of faith in Christ as the source of salvation. Also, consider his beautiful letter to the Ephesian church; it detalls how new converts can grow in their spiritual knowledge of God and in the realities of the Kingdom.
Think about Peter's writings; in chapter one verse four of his second epistle, he said, "Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature...." What a description of who the Christian Is: we're participators or sharers of God's divine nature; associates of the God-kind-carriers or conveyors of the God-life. What a blessed reality!
There's also the prophetic word on the millennial reign of Christ: everything the Lord promised to the Jews in the millennial reign is what He already gave the Church to enjoy today.
Therefore, if you want to know about the Christian life and who the Christian is, you need the Book of Acts, the revelations and admonitions in the epistles, and all the promises prophetically given to the Jews in the Millennium. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I'm thoroughly nourished, nurtured, sustained and fortified to attain spiritual maturity through the study of the realities of the new life in Christ. I make progress by the Spirit, and my profiting by the Word is unstoppable, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
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Colossians 1:26-27; even the mystery which hath been hid from ages and from generations, but now is made manifest to his saints:
27. to whom God would make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles; which is Christ in you, the hope of glory:
2 Corinthians 5:17; Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new.
1 Peter 2:9 AMPC; But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a dedicated nation, [God's] own purchased, special people, that you may set forth the wonderful deeds and display the virtues and perfections of Him Who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 15:1-17 & 1 Chronicles 3-42
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 14:12-21 & Numbers 33
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SUN. 28TH MAY 2023
SUMIT TO HIS WILL
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...Lo, I come: in the volume of the book it is written of me, I delight to do thy will... (Psalm 40:7-8).
God loves you more than you love yourself. He knows what’s best for you and always wants the best for you. Therefore, you can trust Him with your life. In Isaiah 1:19, He said, “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land.” The Living Bible renders it in a rather fascinating way. It says, “If you will only let me help you, if you will only obey, then I will make you rich!”
Thank God we’re His obedient children! So you can trust Him to make you rich and make your life glorious. Your responsibility is to submit to His will by living in His Word. It’s those who are ignorant of God’s Word and of His love that struggle and try to wrest the steering-wheel of their lives from His grasp. They haven’t fully yielded to His Word, to His will and purpose.
When you know Him, you’re at rest. You discover that He’s more passionate for your success than you could ever be. That discovery changed my life many years ago. It made me submit to His choices and follow His Word wholeheartedly.
Accept His love. Colossians 1:13 AMPC says He’s transferred us into the Kingdom of the Son of His love. Have confidence in His love. Dare to believe Him, and submit to the destiny that He’s chosen for you. It’s a unique destiny. And in His Word, He’s laid out the blueprint for your life: how you should live. Follow His Word, for that’s how you submit to His will. His Word is His will expressed.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for strengthening me by your Spirit to do your will always. I live for you alone, fully submitted to your plans and purpose for my life. My life is a daily expression of your will, and I fulfil your purpose and destiny for me with glory and joy, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
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Luke 22:41-42 And he was withdrawn from them about a stone's cast, and kneeled down, and prayed, 42 Saying, Father, if thou be willing, remove this cup from me: nevertheless not my will, but thine, be done.
Philippians 2:13 AMPC [Not in your own strength] for it is God Who is all the while effectually at work in you [energizing and creating in you the power and desire], both to will and to work for His good pleasure and satisfaction and delight.
Hebrews 10:7 Then said I, Lo, I come (in the volume of the book it is written of me,) to do thy will, O God.
DAILY SCRIPTURE READING
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: John 13:31-14:1-14 & 2 Kings 23-25
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Mark 13:24-37 & Numbers 31
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SAT. 24TH JUNE 2023
OVERCOMING TEMPTATION THROUGH PRAYER
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And when he was at the place, he said unto them, Pray that ye enter not into temptation (Luke 22:40-42).
Pastor Chris Says
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No one exemplified the power of prayer in overcoming temptation better than our Lord Jesus. Hebrews 5:7 gives us an idea why He prayed to the Father the way He did in our theme scripture: He (Jesus) "... shrank from the horrors of separation from the bright presence of the Father" (AMPC).
That separation from the Father was what He never wanted to experience even for a moment. As a result, He knelt and prayed, and as He did, something remarkable happened: "... there appeared an angel unto him from heaven, strengthening him" (Luke 22:43). The 44th verse says, "And being in an agony he (Jesus) prayed more earnestly...."
Remember, the earnest prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available, dynamic in its working (James 5:16). Jesus, being in agony, prayed more earnestly. His prayer was so intense that the Bible says "... His sweat became like great clots of blood dropping down upon the ground" (Luke 22:44 AMPC).
Thanks be unto God, His prayer was answered. He submitted Himself to the will of the Father by becoming sin for us so we would become the righteousness of God in Him. Hallelujah!
When He was done praying, He said something instructive to His disciples as seen in Luke 22:45-46: "When he rose from prayer and went back to the disciples, he found them asleep, exhausted from sorrow. "Why are you sleeping?" he asked them. "Get up and pray so that you will not fall into temptation" (NIV). The problem isn't being tempted, but falling into the temptation. Jesus here shows us we must pray to avoid falling into temptation.
Remember, He was about to experience the horror of being separated from the Father, and had to wrestle with the temptation to say, "No, I'm not doing this!" He knew He had to pray, because He had Himself taught that "... Men ought always to pray, and not to faint" (Luke 18:1).
Like the Master, give yourself to prayer. In the place of prayer, your spirit is conditioned to discern and walk in God's perfect will, and your faith is strengthened to overcome temptations and rule over circumstances. You're invigorated with the might of the Spirit to live victoriously every day. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Lord, thank you for the privilege and blessing of prayer, a place where my spirit is conditioned to discern and walk in your perfect will always, and my faith is strengthened to overcome temptations and rule over circumstances. I'm fully equipped and fortified, strong in the Lord and in the power of His might to triumph gloriously today, and always. Amen.
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1 Corinthians 10:13; There hath no temptation taken you but such as is common to man: but God is faithful, who will not suffer you to be tempted above that ye are able; but will with the temptation also make a way to escape, that ye may be able to bear it.
Hebrews 5:5-7 AMPC; So too Christ (the Messiah) did not exalt Himself to be made a high priest, but was appointed and exalted by Him Who said to Him, You are My Son; today I have begotten You; [Ps. 2:7.]
6. As He says also in another place, You are a Priest [appointed] forever after the order (with the rank) of Melchizedek. [Ps. 110:4.]
7. In the days of His flesh [Jesus] offered up definite, special petitions [for that which He not only wanted but needed] and supplications with strong crying and tears to Him Who was [always] able to save Him [out] from death, and He was heard because of His reverence toward God [His godly fear, His piety, in that He shrank from the horrors of separation from the bright presence of the Father].
Matthew 26:41; Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 11:1-18 & Ezra 9-10
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 3:23-38 & Deuteronomy 22
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 THURS. 22ND JUNE 2023
ESTABLISH AND EXTEND HIS KINGDOM
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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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In our walk with God, it's important to always keep in focus our purpose in the earth; why are we here? Our primary purpose is to establish and extend the Kingdom of God to the ends of the earth.
The Bible says. "For the earth shall be filled with the knowledge of the glory of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea" (Habakkuk 2:14). It's our responsibility to make this happen. It's our job!
Matthew 28:19 conveys the mandate of the Master, He instructed, "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost." In essence, He wants us to make students or pupils of the nations. What a calling!
There are many who think God is running this world by Himself and so whatever happens is His will. If that were true, why would Jesus teach His disciples to pray in this manner, "...Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:9-10). Why admonish them to pray that way if God's will is always being done in the earth? We pray that way because it's our responsibility to enforce His will in the earth.
God's will is always done in heaven, but in the earth, only God's people can pray His will into manifestation. So, in prayer, speak forth salvation in your city, your state and in your country. Pray that righteousness fills the land and the Gospel has free course and is glorified, resulting in a massive harvest of souls into the Kingdom. Amen.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, your Kingdom reigns and is established in the earth, and in the hearts of men as the Gospel is proclaimed around the world today. The light of the Gospel shines evermore in all nations, resulting in great testimonies of salvation, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Luke 11:2; And he said unto them, When ye pray, say, Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done, as in heaven, so in earth.
Matthew 6:33 AMPC; But seek (aim at and strive after) first of all His kingdom and His righteousness (His way of doing and being right), and then all these things taken together will be given you besides.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 10:1-23 & Ezra 4-6
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 3:1-11 & Deuteronomy 20
EXCERPT from Rhapsody of Realities Dailies
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 TUES. 20TH JUNE 2023
DON'T FORGET WHO YOU ARE
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But we all, with unveiled face, beholding as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are being transformed into the same image from glory to glory, just as by the Spirit of the Lord (2 Corinthians 3:18 NKJV).
Pastor Chris Says
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God gave us His Word to enable us see ourselves the way He sees us, understand things from His perspective, and live to fulfil His perfect will. God's Word reveals God's Image and opinion of you, which is the image and opinion He wants you to have of yourself.
So as you study the Word and see your true image and identity, retain the picture; don't forget who you are. James 1:23-24 says, "For if any be a hearer of the word, and not a doer, he is like unto a man beholding his natural face in a glass: For he beholdeth himself, and goeth his way, and straightway forgetteth what manner of man he was."
Observe the underlined portion. Interestingly, it doesn't say that the one who doesn't do the Word forgot what he looked like"; rather, it says such a fellow is like a man who looks carefully at his own natural face in a mirror, thoughtfully observes himself, and then goes off and forgets "the kind" or "the type" of man that he saw.
God's Word reveals the type or kind of person you are; the "species" of being that you are. That's extraordinary. For example, in 2 Peter 1:4, the mirror-the Word-shows that you're a partaker of the divine nature, an associate of the God-kind.
In Ephesians 1:22, the mirror shows that you're seated together with Christ, and all things are under your feet. You have dominion over all things. You reign victoriously over Satan, sickness, failure and death. Hallelujah! This is who you are according to God's Word; live accordingly. Praise God!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, your Word is the reflection of your immense glory, greatness, excellence and success deposited in my spirit. I'm the expression of your righteousness and the unveiling of your goodness to the world. I'm the effulgence of your glory, perfections, beauty and grace, and I'm conscious of your supernatural life in me. My life is indeed an unveiling of the virtues and perfections of divinity. Hallelujah!
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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2 Corinthians 3:18 AMPC; And all of us, as with unveiled face, [because we] continued to behold [in the Word of God] as in a mirror the glory of the Lord, are constantly being transfigured into His very own image in ever increasing splendor and from one degree of glory to another; [for this comes] from the Lord [Who is] the Spirit.
James 1:22-25 NKJV; But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.
23. For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man observing his natural face in a mirror;
24. for he observes himself, goes away, and immediately forgets what kind of man he was.
25. But he who looks into the perfect law of liberty and continues in it, and is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the work, this one will be blessed in what he does.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 9:1-31 & 2 Chronicles 35-36
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 2:33-40 & Deuteronomy 18
EXCERPT From Rhapsody of Realities Dailies
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SUN. 18TH JUNE 2023
HIS SPIRITUAL CLOUD
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Moreover thou leddest them in the day by a cloudy pillar; and in the night by a pillar of fire, to give them light in the way wherein they should go (Nehemiah 9:12).
Pastor Chris Says
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The opening verse brings to mind what happened to the children of Israel as they journeyed out of Egypt. The Bible tells us in Exodus 13:21-22, that they carried their own atmosphere through the wilderness for forty years.
Nehemiah also referenced this atmosphere of bliss in which the children of Israel lived. Nehemiah 9:21 (AMPC) says, "Forty years You sustained them in the wilderness; they lacked nothing, their clothes did not wear out, and their feet did not swell."
The Lord hasn't changed. The Father's loving-kindness didn't end with the children of Israel; it's even better with us today. When you were born again, you were born into God's glory; born into God's spiritual cloud; that's the Holy Spirit. You live in His presence, in a divine atmosphere of joy, bliss and glory, where you're sustained and nurtured by Him, absolutely independent of circumstances. You're fully at rest.
Those who live outside this atmosphere of bliss are the ones who face disappointments, anger, frustration, and discomfort; always agitated from within because nothing seems to be going on right.
But in Christ, which is the supernatural environment you were born into, your joy and satisfaction overflows. His presence in, with, and about you makes you an oasis of love in a troubled world. Be mindful of this always. There could be chaos or anarchy everywhere, but in Him, you're at peace and in safety. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, your presence in, with, and about me makes me an oasis of love and grace in a troubled world. I'm born from above; I live the heavenly life here on earth, nurtured by your divine love, and enwrapped in your kindness, glory and righteousness. Hallelujah!
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Exodus 13:21-22; And the LORD went before them by day in a pillar of a cloud, to lead them the way; and by night in a pillar of fire, to give them light; to go by day and night:
22. he took not away the pillar of the cloud by day, nor the pillar of fire by night, from before the people.
Exodus 14:19-20; And the angel of God, which went before the camp of Israel, removed and went behind them; and the pillar of the cloud went from before their face, and stood behind them:
20. and it came between the camp of the Egyptians and the camp of Israel; and it was a cloud and darkness to them, but it gave light by night to these: so that the one came not near the other all the night.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 7:54-8:1-8 & 2 Chronicles 31-32
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 2:8-20 & Deuteronomy 16
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 FRI. 16TH JUNE 2023
MEDITATE ON THE WORD DAY AND NIGHT
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This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success (Joshua 1:8).
Pastor Chris Says
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There's a word I'll like you to notice in the opening text. It's the word, "observe". Many Bible scholars have had difficulty interpreting it, they've wrestled for years with that terminology. To them, it means "that you may understand how to do", but that's not it.
The Hebrew word translated observe is "shämar"; it means to watch for the purpose of doing. It's like looking out for something so you can do; "copying to do" or "hearing to do"! Following what the Lord told Joshua, if you'd meditate on the Word as you should, you'd be propelled to do what the Word says.
Paul alludes to this in Philippians 2:13 when he said, "For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure." This is akin to what the Lord said to Joshua in the theme verse. Do you want to be successful, prosperous, and deal wisely in the affairs of life? Do you want to be able to help other people become successful and prosperous? Meditate on the Word, day and night.
Meditating on the Word will give you an understanding, a motivation, and an inspiration to do what God wants you to do. Practice this for at least half an hour every day. Psalm 1:1-3 further tells us the overwhelming blessings this will produce in your life: you'll be standing firm like a flourishing tree planted by God's design, deeply rooted by the brooks of bliss, bearing fruit in every season of life; never dry, never fainting, but ever blessed and unendingly prosperous. Hallelujah!
🗣 C O N F E S S I O N
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As I meditate on the Word, the forces of success, prosperity and divine health are activated in my life; I'm transformed from glory to glory through the propelling power of the Word! I make progress with giant strides, and my success is evident to all as I deal wisely in the affairs of life, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
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1 Timothy 4:15; Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.
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.
Psalm 1:1-3 TPT; What delight comes to the one who follows God’s ways! He won’t walk in step with the wicked, nor share the sinner’s way, nor be found sitting in the scorner’s seat.
2. His passion is to remain true to the Word of “I AM,” meditating day and night on the true revelation of light.
3. He will be standing firm like a flourishing tree planted by God’s design, deeply rooted by the brooks of bliss, bearing fruit in every season of life. He is never dry, never fainting, ever blessed, ever prosperous.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 6:1-15 & 2 Chronicles 26-28
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 1:67-80 & Deuteronomy 14
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 WED. 14TH JUNE 2023
THE WORD AND THE SPIRIT
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The Holy Spirit is the one who gives life, that which is of the natural realm is of no help. The words I speak to you are Spirit and life... (John 6:63 TPT).
Pastor Chris Says
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Acts 19:20 tells us that in the city of Ephesus, "So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed." This is no surprise at all because when you study Revelation 2:2-3, the Apostle John, by divine revelation, unveiled the state of the Ephesian church. It was a very spiritual church.
However, in Ephesians 3:14-16, the Apostle Paul prayed for them and said, "For this cause I bow my knees unto the Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, of whom the whole family in heaven and earth is named, That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man."
He said, "I am praying for you that God would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened (invigorated) with might-miracle-working ability. He's emphasizing the importance of giving recognition to the working of God's Word in our lives and the working of the Holy Spirit in our Christian growth.
Another version says to be strengthened with excellence by the Holy Spirit in your inner man; so that what you learn of God's Word will not just be in your head but working by the Holy Spirit in your life. He's talking about the power of God's Word and the Holy Spirit working out that which is the perfect will of God in your life so that your Christianity will be effective and evincive.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, my words are spoken forth in demonstration of the Spirit and power. I utter words that are consistent with your will, plans and purposes continually, knowing that my words are filled with power to produce results for your glory. Amen.
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John 6:63; It is the spirit that quickeneth; the flesh profiteth nothing: the words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.
John 14:26; These things have I spoken unto you, being yet present with you.
2 Corinthians 4:13; We having the same spirit of faith, according as it is written, I believed, and therefore have I spoken; we also believe, and therefore speak;
1 Corinthians 2:4; And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power:
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 4:32-5:1-11 & 2 Chronicles 20-22
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 1:39-56 & Deuteronomy 12
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 MON. 12TH JUNE 2023
GIVE WITH THE RIGHT MENTALITY
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And other fell on good ground, and did yield fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some thirty, and some sixty, and some an hundred (Mark 4:8).
Pastor Chris Says
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One of the most profound principles in the Word of God that guarantees a continuous increase in finances is the principle of giving. Your giving is a channel to facilitate your receiving, for there can be no receiving without first giving.
Sadly, a lot of people give to God with the mentality of lack or loss. No, that's not wise. Such a mentality stops the miracle of receiving from taking place. Kingdom consciousness of giving is different. When you give to God, be more conscious of the promise on your giving.
Remember what Jesus said about the sower who sowed his seeds on good ground. He said it yielded fruits that sprang up and Increased and brought forth thirty, sixty, and a hundred fold harvest (Mark 4:8). So, you could have a thirtyfold return, a sixtyfold return, or a hundredfold return on your giving.
With the right mentality, you can set in motion all the miracle- power of God to cause a thirtyfold, a sixtyfold, or a hundredfold return on what you've given! Train yourself to become positive with God in your giving. When next you give an offering or a seed to God, do it with the mentality of someone who is in the Kingdom and you'll have amazing testimonies.
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for the mighty harvests of blessings and miracles that I receive as I give for the propagation of the Gospel and the expansion of your Kingdom. Thank you Lord, for you've made all grace available to me to have all sufficiency in all things, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
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2 Corinthians 9:8 AMPC; And God is able to make all grace (every favor and earthly blessing) come to you in abundance, so that you may always and under all circumstances and whatever the need be self-sufficient [possessing enough to require no aid or support and furnished in abundance for every good work and charitable donation].
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.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 3:1-26 & 2 Chronicles 12-15
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Luke 1:11-25 & Deuteronomy 10
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📖 SAT. 10TH JUNE 2023
TAKE POSSESSION OF YOUR INHERITANCE
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But upon mount Zion shall be deliverance, and there shall be holiness; and the house of Jacob shall possess their possessions (Obadiah 1:17).
Pastor Chris Says
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The Lord spoke through Moses concerning Joshua and Caleb and said, "...The land on which your feet have walked will be your inheritance, you and your children's, forever. Yes, you have lived totally for GOD" (Joshua 14:9 MSG).
The Lord had said specifically to Caleb, "Hebron shall be yours," but Hebron had giants-the Anakims- who were in large walled cities. Caleb was unfazed; he professed that he was just as strong to possess the land as he was forty-five years prior when he spied out the land; very Inspiring!
Caleb converted the inheritance to a possession; he took possession of Hebron and it became his and his family's land to this day (Joshua 14:13-14). It's one thing to have an inheritance, but it's another thing to have it in your possession. An inheritance can be allotted to you, but "the giants" might try to prevent you from taking possession of it. But you should stand your ground in faith and declare, "In the Name of Jesus, I take possession of all that belongs to me in Christ Jesus!"
The Lord has qualified and made you fit to become a partaker of the glorious inheritance of the saints in light; there's an inheritance for you (Colossians 1:12). Let nothing cheat you out of God's best. By the power of the Holy Spirit and the Word of God in your mouth, take full possession of all that's yours in Christ, irrespective of the circumstances.
As you study and meditate on the Word, not only will you discover your inheritance in Christ, but you'll also begin to relate with and enjoy all that God has made available to you. The inheritance was already yours, but through the knowledge of God's Word and your faith-filled words, you take possession. Hallelujah!
📖 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for making me a partaker of the glorious inheritance of the saints in light! My understanding is enlightened today, to know the hope of your calling, and the riches of the glory of your inheritance for me, in Christ Jesus. Amen.
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Colossians 1:12 AMPC; Giving thanks to the Father, Who has qualified and made us fit to share the portion which is the inheritance of the saints (God's holy people) in the Light.
1 Corinthians 2:12-13; Now we have received, not the spirit of the world, but the spirit which is of God; that we might know the things that are freely given to us of God.
13. Which things also we speak, not in the words which man's wisdom teacheth, but which the Holy Ghost teacheth; comparing spiritual things with spiritual.
Acts 20:32; And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Acts 2:1-21 & 2 Chronicles 5-7
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 16:12-20 & Deuteronomy 8
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 THURS. 8TH JUNE 2023
THE CURE FOR DECEPTION
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Do not be so deceived and misled! Evil companionships (communion, associations) corrupt and deprave good manners and morals and character (1 Corinthians 15:33 AMPC).
Pastor Chris Says
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The Lord Jesus warned us to be wary of deception. In Matthew 24:4, He cautions "...Take heed that no man deceive you." In the epistles, the Apostle Paul repeatedly warned of the dangers of deception. Notice what he said in the opening text, "Do not be so deceived and misled...", because it's easy to be deceived.
Satan's capital strategy in derailing Eve was deception. In 2 Corinthians 11:3, Paul captures it; it says, "But I fear, lest by any means, as the serpent beguiled Eve through his subtilty, so your minds should be corrupted from the simplicity that is in Christ." Therefore, by understanding how Satan deceived Eve, you can gain insight into how to stay ahead of him and prevent yourself and others from being deceived.
Remember that Paul was speaking to God's people when he said, "Awake to righteousness, and sin not; for some have not the knowledge of God..." (1 Corinthians 15:34). The knowledge of God keeps your heart in the right place. So, get your mind on the right subject, get your heart in the right direction! The cure for deception, therefore, is the knowledge of the truth: the accurate knowledge of the Word; this will both deliver and protect anyone from deception.
Keep in mind what the Bereans did in Acts 17:11: "These were more noble than those in Thessalonica, in that they received the word with all readiness of mind, and searched the scriptures daily, whether those things were so." Also, note Paul's admonition to Timothy, "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth" (2 Timothy 2:15).
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for the knowledge of your Word in my heart, causing me to walk in faith, dominion, glory and power. Through the revelation knowledge of your Word, I live above the deception, trickery, manipulation and lies of the adversary. I function in absolute victory, now and always, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
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2 Peter 3:18; But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.
Ephesians 1:17-18; that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give unto you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of him:
18. the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that ye may know what is the hope of his calling, and what the riches of the glory of his inheritance in the saints,
John 8:32; and ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 21:1-25 & 1 Chronicles 26-29
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 15:33-47 & Deuteronomy 6
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 TUES. 6TH JUNE 2023
OUR DIVINE NATURE
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But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvellous light (1 Peter 2:9).
Pastor Chris Says
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Some people would easily agree with you when you describe yourself as a child of God, but when you say you're divine, they pause and warn you of going too far. But, isn't it contradictory to disagree that a child of God is divine?
Being a child of God isn't merely a religious rhetoric. Rather, it means you're an associate of the God-kind. You're a God-man or God- woman. The Bible says, "Whereby are given unto us exceeding great and precious promises: that by these ye might be partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world through lust" (2 Peter 1:4).
If you follow the tenses carefully, you'll realize that this isn't a promise; He's already done it. He's made us partakers of the divine nature. The actual Greek rendering says, "Associates of the God-kind," like when you say "mankind." So, who really are you?
If you're born again, you've been brought into the God-kind: a divine pantheon. You have the divine life. The Bible says in 1 John 5:13 NIV, "I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God so that you may know that you have eternal life."
God wants you to know you have eternal life. That's the Gospel of Jesus Christ. The life you got from your parents when they gave birth to you has been supplanted by eternal life. You now have the divine life that dispels and obliterates all sicknesses, diseases, and afflictions. This is what makes us invincible in life. This life dispels darkness, poverty, failure and death. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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I'm an associate of the God-kind, in vital, inseparable oneness and union with divinity. I'm superior to Satan, and I'm above the forces of darkness, because I've been brought into the God-kind, a divine pantheon. Divinity is at work in me. Glory to God!
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2 Peter 1:4 AMPC; By means of these He has bestowed on us His precious and exceedingly great promises, so that through them you may escape [by flight] from the moral decay (rottenness and corruption) that is in the world because of covetousness (lust and greed), and become sharers (partakers) of the divine nature.
1 John 5:11-13 AMPC; And this is that testimony (that evidence): God gave us eternal life, and this life is in His Son.
12. He who possesses the Son has that life; he who does not possess the Son of God does not have that life.
13. I write this to you who believe in (adhere to, trust in, and rely on) the name of the Son of God [in the peculiar services and blessings conferred by Him on men], so that you may know [with settled and absolute knowledge] that you [already] have life, yes, eternal life.
1 John 4:17; Herein is our love made perfect, that we may have boldness in the day of judgment: because as he is, so are we in this world.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 20:1-18 & 1 Chronicles 20-22
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 15:15-24 & Deuteronomy 4
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SUN. 4TH JUNE 2023
TAKE THE COMMUNION WITH UNDERSTANDING
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When we drink the cup of blessing, aren't we taking into ourselves the blood, the very life, of Christ? And isn't it the same with the loaf of bread we break and eat? Don't we take into ourselves the body, the very life, of Christ? (1 Corinthians 10:16 MSG).
Pastor Chris Says
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The Holy Communion is a very important sacrament in the Church, but many take it without understanding its spiritual import and impact. When you take the Holy Communion, you aren't only fellowshipping with the body and blood of Christ, you're administering life to your body because it has curative powers! It's more potent than any medication.
In explaining the parable of the sower to His disciples in Matthew 13:3-4 and 18-19, the Lord Jesus revealed that the ones who received seed by the wayside represented those who hear the Word but don't understand it. As a result of their lack of understanding, Satan comes immediately and steals the Word sown in their hearts, and they lose out.
God's Word mixed with understanding produces divine results. Henceforth, have the understanding that when we "break bread," we're commemorating the vicarious death of Christ, the sacrificial Lamb that was given up for you. Also, the "Cup" signifies the New Testament sealed in His blood. His divine blood was shed for us for the remission of sins, so that sin should not have dominion over us.
So, today, it doesn't matter what the condition has been; you might have been diagnosed with lung, kidney, heart, stomach or skin problems; take the Communion and declare, "No cancerous growth, weakness, disease, infirmity or sickness can thrive or survive in my body. I'm healthy, vibrant and strong." Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, I thank you for the body of Jesus that was broken for me so that I'll never be broken, sick, weak, or defeated. Thank you for His blood that was shed for the remission of sins, and by which I've become a partaker and distributor of the divine life, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
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1 Corinthians 10:16-17; The cup of blessing which we bless, is it not the communion of the blood of Christ? The bread which we break, is it not the communion of the body of Christ?
17. For we being many are one bread, and one body: for we are all partakers of that one bread.
1 Corinthians 11:23-25; For I have received of the Lord that which also I delivered unto you, That the Lord Jesus the same night in which he was betrayed took bread:
24. and when he had given thanks, he brake it, and said, Take, eat: this is my body, which is broken for you: this do in remembrance of me.
25. After the same manner also he took the cup, when he had supped, saying, This cup is the new testament in my blood: this do ye, as oft as ye drink it, in remembrance of me.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 18:28-19:1-16 & 1 Chronicles 14-16
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 14:66-72 & Deuteronomy 2
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 FRI. 2ND JUNE 2023
WE'RE HIS HOLY SANCTUARY
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The earth shook, the heavens also dropped at the presence of God: even Sinai itself was moved at the presence of God, the God of Israel (Psalm 68:8).
Pastor Chris Says
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The Bible says, "Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?" (1 Corinthians 3:16). That means you're God's house, His holy sanctuary.
In Hebrews 3:1, the Bible says, "Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling...." Colossians 1:22 (CEV) says, "...God made peace with you, and now he lets you stand in his presence as people who are holy and faultless and innocent." Think about that! Then Ephesians 1:4 says, "According as he hath chosen us in him before the foundation of the world, that we should be holy and without blame before him in love." Hallelujah!
In Exodus 19, when Moses brought the people from the camp to meet God, the Bible tells us that God descended on Mount Sinai with a terrible display of power. the mountain shuddered in huge spasms, with smoke billowing from it, so much so that the people trembled before the Lord. God only stepped on it and it was declared a holy mountain.
His presence made it holy. Now, think about the fact that He didn't indwell the mountain; but He indwells you! Hallelujah! You're more holy than Mount Sinai. No wonder He tells us in Ephesians 5:25-27 that Christ gave Himself for us-the Church-that He might sanctify and cleanse us with the washing of water by the Word, and present us to Himself glorious, not having spot or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that we should be holy and without blemish. Blessed be God!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for your divine presence in me that makes me holy, unblameable and unreproveable in your sight. I walk in the light of this truth, and reign over sin, Satan and circumstances. I'm victorious all the way, serving you joyously in love, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Colossians 1:21-22; And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled
22. in the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight:
1 Corinthians 3:16-17; Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and that the Spirit of God dwelleth in you?
17. If any man defile the temple of God, him shall God destroy; for the temple of God is holy, which temple ye are.
Hebrews 3:1; Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 17:1-26 & 1 Chronicles 9-10
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 14:43-52 & Numbers 36
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 WED. 31ST MAY 2023
BEING RAISED BY THE WORD
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If we say we are his, we must follow the example of Christ (1 John 2:6 CEV).
Pastor Chris Says
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There is the education of the human mind, but there's also the education of the human spirit, in these last days, through the ministry of the Word and the Spirit, we're raising God's people to become effective witnesses.
The Body of Christ is growing, and thanks be unto God for making it possible for a whole lot more people to hear the Word of God and be raised. It's akin to watching newborn babies grow up; it evokes some kind of excitement in parents as they watch their children go through various stages of growth.
At a certain level of growth, all that the parents are required to do is give the required instructions, guidance, supervision and direction. They ensure the babies are feeding well, getting the right treatment, living in the right environment, exercising their bodies, and so on.
But soon enough, through observation, the babies begin to talk and attempt to act like the parents. That way, they're being raised, the things you do affect them, and they tend to become more and more like you. It's the same thing spiritually. The Apostle Paul said in 1 Corinthians 11:1, "Be ye followers of me, even as I also am of Christ."
Now, because the Lord is in fellowship with us, talking to us, teaching us, feeding us and doing things before us, and we have His Word to give us a good picture, we become more and more like Him, acting, talking, relating with others as He would.
The Bible says, "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). Open your heart to be raised by the Word. Receive with meekness the love, hope, faith, power, prosperity, truth, strength, soundness of mind and body that the Word brings to you. Embrace the Word, which is able to make you wise unto salvation through faith which is in Christ Jesus. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, my life is the expression of all that Christ is. I unveil Him to my world today through my thoughts, words and actions. The world sees Jesus in my eyes; I show them love they can't deny. His divine life is manifested through me. I live in the consciousness of my divine life and origin in Christ, knowing that His wisdom, ability and power are working in and through me, 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.
Acts 20:32; And now, brethren, I commend you to God, and to the word of his grace, which is able to build you up, and to give you an inheritance among all them which are sanctified.
2 Timothy 3:16-17; All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
17. that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 15:18-16:1-16 & 1 Chronicles 5-6
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 14:22-31 & Numbers 34
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 MON. 29TH MAY 2023
JESUS IS LORD AND GOD
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...He [God] was made visible in human flesh, justified and vindicated in the [Holy Spirit, was seen by angels, preached among the nations, believed on in the world, [and] taken up in glory (1 Timothy 3:16 AMPC).
Pastor Chris Says
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Our opening verse leaves no doubt about who Jesus is; He is God, made visible in human flesh, justified and vindicated in the Spirit, seen by angels, preached among the nations, believed on in the world, and taken up in glory! Hallelujah!
It brings to mind the story of the hastily prearranged prosecution of Jesus in Mark 14:60-63. The high priests conspired with the Jewish Council to find some evidence against Jesus by which they could sentence Him to death, but they couldn't find any. Then they asked Jesus, "...Art thou the Christ, the Son of the Blessed?"
The Master's response was unambiguous and unequivocal. He said, "...I am: and ye shall see the Son of man sitting on the right hand of power, and coming in the clouds of heaven." For this, they condemned Him to death and took Him away because He dared to declare Himself to be God in human flesh. But that's who He is. To say "Jesus is the Son of God" means He's God in human flesh.
God came to us in a human body. That was what He was crucified for. No wonder Paul said the fullness of the Godhead, that is, the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit- the totality of Deity-is tabernacled in Jesus (Colossians 1:19).
When you stand before the throne of God, you aren't going to be seeing some blinding light as the Father, and then the Lord Jesus standing beside Him on the throne; neither will you see the Holy Spirit like a bird on top of the throne, no! Jesus is on the throne and the Father is in Him. He is the complete embodiment of Deity. Hallelujah!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Blessed Lord Jesus, you're God who appeared in human form, believed on in the world, and taken up to heaven. How excellent is your Name in all the earth, O, Lord! You're the complete embodiment of Deity. I worship you for who you are, and thank you for revealing yourself to your Church. Your glory is everlasting. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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John 10:30-33; I and my Father are one.
31. Then the Jews took up stones again to stone him.
32. Jesus answered them, Many good works have I shewed you from my Father; for which of those works do ye stone me? The Jews answered him, saying,
33. For a good work we stone thee not; but for blasphemy; and because that thou, being a man, makest thyself God.
Philippians 2:5-6; Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus:
6. who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God:
Colossians 1:19 AMPC; 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.
John 1:1-3; In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
2. The same was in the beginning with God.
3. All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 14:15-31 & 1 Chronicles 1-2
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 14:1-11 & Numbers 32
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional
RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
📅 SAT. 27TH MAY 2023
KNOWING THE WORD OF GOD
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The statutes of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes (Psalm 19:8).
Pastor Chris Says
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When we emphasize the importance of knowing the Word of God, some think we mean acquiring "Bible Knowledge" from a university or religious institution. That may have its place, but knowing the Word by revelation and guidance of the Holy Spirit is different.
There're Bible scholars who studied Bible knowledge as a course but have no idea what the Word of God is. All scripture is God-breathed; that is, the contents and the message of the Bible came from God and are Inspired by His Spirit. It's His document of truth, and it's trustworthy and dependable.
2 Timothy 3:16 AMPC says, "Every Scripture is God-breathed (given by His inspiration) and profitable for instruction, for reproof and conviction of sin, for correction of error and discipline in obedience, [and] for training in righteousness (in holy living, in conformity to God's will in thought, purpose, and action)." Hebrews 4:12 further tells us something extraordinary about the Word of God. It says, "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."
But then, what is the Word of God? The Word is that message from God that reveals or communicates His works, will, thoughts, plans, purposes and pursuit to bring men into, or promote, fellowship with Him in love. It's His message of truth with the content and power to build His image into the life of the hearers.
Now, the content of the Word is the embodiment of Christ's revelations, provisions, perfections and instructions, profitable for doctrine, reproof, correction, instruction and for training in righteousness. Therefore, knowing or having the knowledge of the Word means knowing God in His thoughts about anything. You know His thoughts, opinions, ideas, and agenda; you're looking into God's mind or His heart about anything! What a wonder!
🙏 P R A Y E R
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Dear Father, thank you for your Word that propels, empowers, inspires, uplifts, motivates and gives me clarity of purpose. I'm educated to know your thoughts, opinions, ideas and agenda in the earth, as your Spirit guides me into all truth, teaching me to make the right choices and decisions that are consistent with your perfect will always, in Jesus' Name. Amen.
📖 FURTHER STUDY:
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Psalm 19:7; The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: The testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple.
2 Peter 1:21; For the prophecy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost.
2 Timothy 3:14-17; But continue thou in the things which thou hast learned and hast been assured of, knowing of whom thou hast learned them;
15. 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.
16. All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness:
17. that the man of God may be perfect, throughly furnished unto all good works.
1 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: John 13:1-30 & 2 Kings 20-22
2 YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN: Mark 13:12-23 & Numbers 30
EXCERPT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional