RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Success By The Spirit** Thursday, December 1st . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Success By The Spirit** Thursday, December 1st . Pastor Chris

Then he answered and spake unto me, saying, This is the word of the LORD unto Zerubbabel, saying, Not by might, nor by power, but by my spirit, saith the LORD of hosts (Zechariah 4:6).

Success in life and in any endeavour isn’t in anything that one’s physical might or strength produces or can produce; true success is in the Spirit and by the Spirit. It’s not about something you’re doing or not doing; it’s about your relationship with the Holy Spirit; that’s what makes the difference, and that’s the most important factor for your success. The Bible says, “So then it is not of him that willeth, nor of him that runneth, but of God that sheweth mercy” (Romans 9:16).

Life is spiritual. Until and unless you walk in the realm which God has brought you into, and function at that level, life will be for you a hard journey. You’ll be making efforts in vain. But if you’re in a passionate, intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit, He’ll breathe on everything you do and see to its success.

The man who’s in fellowship with the Holy Spirit, yielded to Him for guidance and inspiration is the one described for us in Psalm 1:3: “And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.” The Holy Spirit is your guarantee for a life of absolute, unending success. He’s the One that glorifies your life and brings you into favours and promotions, and opens doors of blessings for you that no man can shut. He’s all you need.

Let the glory of Christ, resplendent in your spirit and exuding from you, be the attraction in your life. Abide in Him. He’s everything you need. Remember the words of Jesus, “If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you” (John 15:7).

                   PRAYER

Dear heavenly Father, thank you for the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit in my life, who causes me to do and walk in your perfect will. I experience, even now, the supply and ministry of the Spirit to be effective in the ministry of the Gospel, communicating your divine presence to my world, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || Ecclesiastes 9:11 I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race [is] not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all. ||

|| John 15:4-8 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me. 5 I am the vine, ye [are] the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. 6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast [them] into the fire, and they are burned. 7 If ye abide in me, and my words abide in you, ye shall ask what ye will, and it shall be done unto you. 8 Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 John 2:15-3:1-10,
Ezekiel 45-46

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Revelation 5:1-14,
Joel 1

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **The Outworking Of The Word In You** Wednesday, November 30th . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **The Outworking Of The Word In You** Wednesday, November 30th . Pastor Chris

To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God (Ephesians 3:10).

Do you know there’s something about us, the new creation, that the angels can’t get over? The angels are glorious and wonderful beings. They’re excellent in glory and mighty in power, but they’re amazed at what God has done with us, in us, and for us, because as glorious as they are, God doesn’t live in them, and as “unworthy” as we were, He gave us a new life and made us His living tabernacles. That remains a mystery to the angels; they don’t understand it. And guess what? God chose us to explain it to them.

The Church is to make the manifold wisdom of God known to them. That’s why each time we preach about Jesus, and about the Holy Ghost, the angels love to listen. They enjoy it; they want to know more about the salvation that Jesus brought to man, because it’s something that they only know from the scriptures. They don’t have an actual experience of it. They don’t know what it’s like; so, they hear it from us. That’s what the Apostle Paul alludes to in our opening verse when he says, “To the intent that now unto the principalities and powers in heavenly places might be known by the church the manifold wisdom of God” (Ephesians 3:10).

It is, indeed, a great privilege and honour for us as the Church of Jesus Christ to explain God’s wisdom and mysteries to the angels. Now, if that’s part of our responsibility, it means we have to know the Word. We have to live in the Word and live out the Word. In other words, you have to be the expression of the Word of God; and that’s real Christianity. It’s the expression of God’s Word; the revelation of His righteousness and His personality. We’re His epistles.

2 Corinthians 3:2 says, “Ye are our epistle written in our hearts, known and read of all men….” The epistle of Christ is the Word of Christ. The Word of Christ is the Word of God. So, we’re the epistles of Christ in flesh, which means we’re the Word of God in flesh, just like Jesus. True Christianity is the outworking of the Word in me and in you. Hallelujah!

                   PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for your Word is my life and it makes my heart rejoice. Your commandment is pure, enlightening the soul. Your Word is more to be desired than fine gold, and it’s sweeter than honey and the honeycomb. As I meditate and yield to your Word, my life is transformed from glory to glory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || 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. ||

|| 1 Peter 1:12 Unto whom it was revealed, that not unto themselves, but unto us they did minister the things, which are now reported unto you by them that have preached the gospel unto you with the Holy Ghost sent down from heaven; which things the angels desire to look into. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 John 1-2:1-14,
Ezekiel 43-44

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Revelation 4:1-11,
Hosea 13-14

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Celebrate The Word In Your Life** Tuesday, November 29th . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Celebrate The Word In Your Life** Tuesday, November 29th .
Pastor Chris

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God (John 1:1).

Some people don’t know how to celebrate the Word of God in their lives. When they hear the Word, to them, it’s just another sermon; so they don’t give personality and honour to the Word. They’ve never placed a premium on the Word of God. The Word should mean everything to you, because our lives are built with it; God builds Himself into us through the Word.

The greatest thing you could ever have on this earth is the Word, because everything came from it; it created the whole world: “All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made” (John 1:3). The Word of God is God. So, always be excited to give glory to, and celebrate the Word. To celebrate the Word is to celebrate Jesus, because Jesus is the living Word.

The true celebration of the Word is doing the Word; living in, and by the Word. James 1:22 says, “But be ye doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving your own selves.” Some have only stored the Word in their hearts, but that’s not enough. You have to act on the Word. You have to keep meditating on the Word so it’ll grow mightily in you and prevail. As you celebrate the Word, your life becomes the expression and effulgence of His wisdom, glory, and grace. Hallelujah.

                   PRAYER

Holy Father, I thank you for the wonderful gift of your Word. As I celebrate your Word with joy and excitement, its power is released to accomplish what it talks about in my life, making me the effulgence and expression of your praise and glory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || Jeremiah 15:16 Thy words were found, and I did eat them; and thy word was unto me the joy and rejoicing of mine heart: for I am called by thy name, O LORD God of hosts. ||

|| James 1:25 But whoso looketh into the perfect law of liberty, and continueth [therein], he being not a forgetful hearer, but a doer of the work, this man shall be blessed in his deed. ||

|| Psalm 19:7 The law of the LORD [is] perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD [is] sure, making wise the simple. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Peter 3,
Ezekiel 41-42

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Revelation 3:11-22,
Hosea 11-12

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **THE ANOINTING IS IN YOU** Saturday, November 26th . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **THE ANOINTING IS IN YOU** Saturday, November 26th . Pastor Chris 

But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you, and ye need not that any man teach you: but as the same anointing teacheth you of all things, and is truth, and is no lie, and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him (1 John 2:27).

The Holy Spirit, the one who gives the anointing, lives in you in His fullness. What we need is the recognition and acknowledgement of the greater One that lives in us. He’s as much in you and with you when you “feel” the anointing, as He is when you don’t “feel” anything.

Don’t bring God to the realm of the senses; He doesn’t deal in that realm. Don’t base your Christianity on feelings. Sadly, that’s the only way some know to relate with God; they rely more on “feeling” the anointing to know that God is present. When they don’t “feel” it, they think something is wrong, and they start praying and crying, “O Lord, let the anointing fall on me; I want to feel your presence!” Some even start fasting for the anointing to come. What a misconception!

The anointing is the effect of the workings of the Holy Spirit. It’s also the impact or impartation of the Holy Spirit’s power. For example, when the anointing comes on a clothing material, like the handkerchiefs and aprons that were taken from Paul and laid on the sick (Acts 19:12), that’s an impartation of His power on that material. The question then is, the person of the Holy Spirit, compared to His effect and impartation, which is greater? The person of course! It’s like a man and his shadow.

Begging and crying for the anointing, when the Holy Spirit lives in you, is ignoring the real thing, and pursuing the shadow; that’s not going to work. Stop trying to receive more anointing. Stop wishing for more anointing from heaven. Look inside you. Get to know Christ who lives in you; He’s the anointed One and owner of the anointing. Since He lives in you, it means you can have all the power you could ever need, right inside you. Learn to stir up this gift of God that’s in you (2 Timothy 1:6).

PRAYER
Precious Father, thank you for giving me the Holy Spirit to live in me with His miracle- working ability. You’re able to do exceeding abundantly above all that I can ask or think according to your grace and power that’s at work in me. I recognize and activate that unction today, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
1 Corinthians 6:19 What? know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God, and ye are not your own?

1 John 2:20 But ye have an unction from the Holy One, and ye know all things.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Peter 5 Ezekiel 35-36
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Revelation 2:1-12 Hosea 5-6

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Understanding The Scriptures** Friday, November 25th . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Understanding The Scriptures** Friday, November 25th . Pastor Chris 

Then opened he their understanding, that they might understand the scriptures (Luke 24:45).

Many read the Bible but don’t understand the message of the Scriptures. The Bible contains the Word of God. It’s God’s testimony on what He said, what men said, what the devils said, what angels said, and what Jesus said. This means everything therein must be understood as to who’s talking and what the context of their speech or writing entails. It’s God’s testimony on the origin, life and destiny of man, spirits and their environments.

For example, in studying the Bible about the early Church in the New Testament, it’s important to notice the period of growth that the early Church went through. The disciples didn’t know everything at once in the early Church. When you study the first fifteen chapters of the book of Acts, the Church at the time didn’t quite believe that the non-Jews were supposed to be in Christ. It was in the fifteenth chapter that they had a debate, a serious one, and Peter had to explain it to them, while James supported with scripture references (Acts 15:6-29).

Therefore, when you’re studying the Bible, you should understand the thinking and culture of the people and writer at the time of writing. For instance, some of the teachings of Jesus in Matthew, Mark, Luke and John weren’t meant for the new creation. Some of those teachings aren’t for Christians to live by; they were for the Jewish mind; not for those who have received eternal life. He said to His disciples on one occasion, “How come you don’t have any faith?” (Mark 4:40). You can’t read that and think to yourself, “O, perhaps the reason things aren’t working out for me is that I don’t have any faith.” That’ll be a wrong assumption because there’s no Christian who doesn’t have faith. The Bible says, “…God hath dealt to every man the measure of faith” (Romans 12:3). It was possible for those that lived under the Old Testament to not have any faith, because they weren’t born again. They were people of the senses, who lived under the Law, and faith isn’t of the senses but of the Spirit. But everyone among us in Christ was given the measure of faith.

Study the Scriptures with spiritual understanding and you’ll have a deeper insight into the past, present and future of God’s plans and purpose for the Church, for you, and for the world.

                   PRAYER

Dear Father, thank you for granting me an understanding of the Scriptures and making me wise unto salvation through faith in Christ Jesus. I’m so privileged to be graced with the ability to understand the mysteries of the Kingdom. Thank you, precious Holy Spirit, for teaching me all things, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || Matthew 13:11 He answered and said unto them, Because it is given unto you to know the mysteries of the kingdom of heaven, but to them it is not given. ||

|| John 14:26 But the Comforter, [which is] the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Peter 4,
Ezekiel 33-34

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Revelation 1:1-20,
Hosea 3-4

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Know The Word For Yourself** Thursday, November 24th . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Know The Word For Yourself** Thursday, November 24th . Pastor Chris 

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).

2 Timothy 3:16 says all Scripture is given by inspiration of God, which means in studying the Bible, you must first yield to the guidance of the Holy Spirit. You shouldn’t study the Scriptures the way you would an academic journal or a textbook. When you study, you have to cross-reference scriptures, and rely on the Holy Spirit to grant you understanding.

Part of the ministry of the Spirit in your life is to grant you revelation knowledge of the Word; He grants you insight into the secrets and mysteries of the Kingdom. He teaches you the Word. Therefore, relying on Him, and affirming that He’s with you to teach you and unveil the Word to you as you study, is very important.

Furthermore, be sure to have a good study Bible. Not every Bible is a study Bible. A study Bible has cross-references. There, you’d find different terms, words, phrases or sentences that are related in different parts of the scriptures. The Rhapsody of Realities Devotional Study Bible, for example, has cross references, with inspiring articles that’ll aid your study and understanding of the Word. You can order a copy by visiting www.rhapsodybible.org

Until and unless you know the Word for yourself, you’re going to be a victim in life. In Hosea 4:6, God didn’t say, “My people perish because they don’t pray enough, go to church, or are always doing the wrong thing”; no! Rather, He said, “My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge….” He wasn’t talking about knowledge of science or history either; He was referring to the knowledge of the Word.

It’s important that you apply the Word in your own life. However, to apply it, first, you must know it. That’s why He wants you to study. You can be a success, live victoriously, walk in divine health, and win every day. Refuse to be ignorant. Give yourself to the Word and your success, progress and prosperity will be inevitable. 

                   PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for your Word which illuminates my path and causes me to walk in your wisdom. By your Spirit, the eyes of my understanding are enlightened, and my mind is renewed in line with your Word, for progress, increase, prosperity, and victory, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || Hosea 6:3 Then shall we know, [if] we follow on to know the LORD: his going forth is prepared as the morning; and he shall come unto us as the rain, as the latter [and] former rain unto the earth. ||

|| 1 Timothy 4:15-16 Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee. ||

|| 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. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Peter 3,
Ezekiel 31-32

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Jude 1:12-25,
Hosea 1-2

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Settle It With The Lord First** Wednesday, November 23rd . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Settle It With The Lord First** Wednesday, November 23rd . Pastor Chris 

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

A dear brother learnt about exercising spiritual authority and decided to act his faith. It had been cloudy and a downpour was imminent. Stepping out of his home, he commanded the rain to hold its peace. But soon enough, the rain started pouring down. He commanded the rain to cease, but the more he issued those commands, the heavier the downpour, and the more he got drenched.

He had read that Elijah stopped the rains from falling for three and half years (1 Kings 17), and so he thought, “If Elijah could do that, why couldn’t I?” But there’s something the young man didn’t understand.

If you only studied 1 Kings 17, you might run off with the view that Elijah merely proclaimed that there would be no rain, stormed out of Ahab’s palace, and the clouds were shut. James 5:17 shows us there was something more: “…he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.” Before Elijah declared that there’d be no rain, he had already settled the matter with God. He had prevailed with God in prayer in his closet; it was an argumentative prayer, because it isn’t man’s jurisdiction to stop or cause rain to fall. 

Jesus made it clear in Matthew 5:45 that sending down rain is solely God’s domain: “That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.” What Elijah did was to bring his strong reasons before the Lord in prayer, and the Lord granted his request.

This is what you do when dealing with cases, situations or issues outside your personal territory or jurisdiction. You must first prevail in prayer. There must first be moments of intense, heartfelt, earnest prayer, supplication, intercession, and giving of thanks. Such prayer, the Bible says, makes tremendous power available, dynamic in its working (James 5:16 AMP).

               CONFESSION

Blessed heavenly Father, it gladdens my heart to know I can set forth and plead my case with you, in earnest, heartfelt, continued prayer, and prevail against unfavourable circumstances. Thank you, Lord, for this awesome privilege, and the right to be heard each time I make decrees and entreaties in the Name of Jesus. Glory to your Name forever!

Further Study: || Isaiah 1:18 Come now, and let us reason together, saith the LORD: though your sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they be red like crimson, they shall be as wool. ||

|| Isaiah 43:26 Put me in remembrance: let us plead together: declare thou, that thou mayest be justified. ||

|| Isaiah 38:1-2 In those days was Hezekiah sick unto death. And Isaiah the prophet the son of Amoz came unto him, and said unto him, Thus saith the LORD, Set thine house in order: for thou shalt die, and not live. 2 Then Hezekiah turned his face toward the wall, and prayed unto the LORD, ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Peter 1:22-2:1-25,
Ezekiel 29-30

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: Jude 1:1-11,
Daniel 11-12

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Walking In Love Is Walking In The Glory** Tuesday, November 22nd . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Walking In Love Is Walking In The Glory** Tuesday, November 22nd . Pastor Chris 

Looking diligently lest any man fail of the grace of God; lest any root of bitterness springing up trouble you, and thereby many be defiled (Hebrews 12:15).

In Exodus 23:25-26, God made certain promises to the children of Israel, who were God’s chosen people of the old covenant. He told them: “And ye shall serve the Lord your God, and he shall bless thy bread, and thy water; and I will take sickness away from the midst of thee. There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren, in thy land: the number of thy days I will fulfill.”

God didn’t say to them, “After you’ve prayed or fasted, I’ll bless your bread and your water; and I’ll take sickness away from you”; no! The only requirement was for them to serve the Lord, and the blessing will follow: there’d be no sickness in their midst. There wouldn’t be any miscarriages; neither would there be barren women in their land. He’d make sure the women carry their pregnancies full term, and the people lived healthy and strong, full and complete lives. How awesome!

It’s the same today. Ours is to walk in love. Jesus said to His disciples in John 13:34, “A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another.” Sadly, many ignore this truth, and allow bitterness to take a hold of their hearts. It accounts for the terrible experiences of many, such as debilitating sicknesses that defy all medications. Bitterness, anger, and malice are some of the most common causes of cancer. To walk in divine health, such unwholesome traits must not be a part of your life.

You’re born to love. Love is your life. The Bible says the love of God is shed abroad in your heart by the Holy Spirit. Walking in love isn’t a commandment for you as a new creation in Christ Jesus, but the only way for you to live. God is love (1 John 4:16 & 18); thus, to walk in love is to walk in God. No sickness, disease, or infirmity can thrive in your body, because you’re in the glory of God! Walking in love is walking in the glory.

                   PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for the revelation of your love to my spirit, and the ability to express and manifest your love to others. You’ve made my life so beautiful, decorating it with your grace, love and righteousness. Thank you for your glory in my life, in Jesus’ Name. Amen. 

Further Study: || 1 Corinthians 13:1-8 NIV If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing. 4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. 8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. ||

|| John 13:35 By this shall all [men] know that ye are my disciples, if ye have love one to another. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Peter 1:1-21,
Ezekiel 27-28

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 3 John,
Daniel 9-10

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **SPEAK THE TRUTH IN YOUR HEART** Monday, November 21st . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **SPEAK THE TRUTH IN YOUR HEART** Monday, November 21st . Pastor Chris 

LORD, who shall abide in thy tabernacle? who shall dwell in thy holy hill? He that walketh uprightly, and worketh righteousness, and speaketh the truth in his heart (Psalm 15:1-2).

If you’re going to walk in the glory of God and have His grace and power manifested in your life, the Word says you must walk uprightly, work righteousness, and speak the truth in your heart. Now, what does it mean to speak the truth in your heart? This is where a lot of people miss it. They don’t have a problem walking uprightly; they don’t have a problem working righteousness, that is, doing right, but then they have a problem with “speaking the truth in their heart.”

Notice that the psalmist didn’t say, “He that... speaketh the truth to his neighbor”; no! I‘m aware that a few translations render it in a way that seems to suggest that it should read “speaking the truth to someone else,” but when you study it from the original Hebrew rendering, you’ll observe it has nothing to do with talking with somebody else. The Amplified Version renders it clearly: “He who walks with integrity and strength of character, and works righteousness, And speaks and holds truth in his heart.”

Did you notice that? It’s dealing with speaking and holding the truth in your heart, and what does that mean? It means meditation: speaking and thinking the truth in your own heart. That’s meditating on God’s Word. If you’re going to walk in the glory and anointing of the Spirit; if you’re going to see the power of God manifested in your spirit and in your life, you have to speak the Word. You have to give vent and expression to the Word. The Word of God in your mouth is God talking; it’s a prevailing force that can’t be stopped.

1 Timothy 4:15 says to meditate and give yourself wholly to the Word; hold the truth of God’s Word in your heart; don’t let it go. Refuse to be swayed by circumstances, and your success, victory, progress and prosperity will be inevitably evident, and unstoppable.

PRAYER
Dear Father, thank you for your Word is in my heart and in my mouth. As I meditate and give it voice, I experience progress, promotion, expansion, and spreading on every side. I’m on an upward and forward journey only. Your glory, grace, and power are manifested in my life and in all I do, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
1 Timothy 4:15 NKJV Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them, that your progress may be evident to all.

Joshua 1:8 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.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
James 4:13-5:1-20 Ezekiel 24-26
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 John Daniel 7-8

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **He’s Given You All Things…Including Himself ** Sunday, November 20th . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **He’s Given You All Things…Including Himself ** Sunday, November 20th . Pastor Chris 

Therefore let no man glory in men. For all things are yours (1 Corinthians 3:21).

Romans 6:23 says, “For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.” That’s a fundamental truth of the Gospel: the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ! However, as you get higher in the understanding of the Gospel, you’d discover that Jesus really doesn’t stand away and give you eternal life; He’s Himself eternal life. In giving you eternal life, He actually gave you Himself. Hallelujah.

No wonder, the Apostle Paul, by the Spirit, said, “...all things are yours” (1 Corinthians 3:21). That’s because all things are in Christ, and He’s in you. Therefore, all things are yours, things present and things to come. He couldn’t see anything that wasn’t already yours. The day you come to terms with the fact that all things are yours, it’ll change your thinking and prayer life. You’d stop asking God for things. If it’s true that all things are yours (and it’s true), what then could you possibly be asking for? 

Stop praying and asking God for healing; take divine health, for it’s yours in Christ Jesus. If all things are yours because Christ is in you, it means that divine health is already yours; you don’t have to pray or ask for what’s already yours. What you do is to acknowledge what belongs to you (Philemon 1:6); claim ownership of it in your words and actions. That’s how to walk in the Word and in the Spirit; affirming the Word in faith, irrespective and independent of circumstances. 

Now, you can understand why the Lord Jesus said, “...Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat; neither for the body, what ye shall put on” (Luke 12:22). He’s your source and your sufficiency. In Him, you have all things. Refuse to be conscious of lack, because in reality, there’s nothing you don’t have. Christ is in you, and Christ is everything. Hallelujah!

                   PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for giving me all things in Christ Jesus. I cast all my cares upon you and lay all burdens down at your feet! I rejoice, knowing that all my needs are met, because Christ is my source and my sufficiency! He’s my all; in Him I have all I require for life and godliness; all I require to live triumphantly and please Him in the life of righteousness. Hallelujah.

Further Study: || 2 Peter 1:3 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: ||

|| Colossians 1:27 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: ||

|| 1 John 5:11-12 And this is the record, that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son. 12 He that hath the Son hath life; [and] he that hath not the Son of God hath not life. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: James 3:14-4:1-12,
Ezekiel 22-23

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 John 5:1-21,
Daniel 5-6

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **We’re Spiritual Sportsmen** Saturday, November 19th . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **We’re Spiritual Sportsmen** Saturday, November 19th . Pastor Chris

And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ (Ephesians 4:11-13).

Sportsmen know the importance of having a good coach; the value of being trained by the best, to be the best. Many Christians don’t realize that they’re spiritual sportsmen. The Bible says that we’re running a race, likening us to sportsmen: “Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain” (1 Corinthians 9:24).

Also, in 1 Corinthians 9:26 (TLB), Paul, by the Spirit, writes: “…I fight to win. I’m not just shadow-boxing or playing around.” Did you notice that? We’re not shadow-boxing; we’re actually in the ring. We’re sportsmen for the Lord, and sportsmen need seasoned coaches to put them through.

Can you see why being a member of a local assembly can’t be overemphasized? It shouldn’t be seen or taken as another routine; no! We learnt about that in our previous study. The church is a place of worship, where we assemble to be blessed, refreshed, strengthened, and energized for victory by God’s Spirit. We come to church to learn the Word of God, to be trained, and to be coached.

Notice our opening verses one more time. It says God gave the ministry gifts, the five-fold offices, for the edification and equipping of the Church, for the perfecting of the saints, and for the work of the ministry. This will go on until we all come to the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto perfection, and unto the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ. That’s where He’s taking us. That’s the reason for the coaching, the spiritual training that we’re receiving through the Spirit.

                   PRAYER

Dear Father, thank you for the Church of the living God, the ground and pillar of truth, where I’m trained in God’s Word. I’m a sportsman, equipped for the work of the ministry; I wax stronger, greater and more effective in the ministry of the Gospel, to the glory and praise of your Name, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || Luke 4:16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read. ||

|| 1 Corinthians 9:25-27 AMP Now every athlete who goes into training conducts himself temperately and restricts himself in all things. They do it to win a wreath that will soon wither, but we [do it to receive a crown of eternal blessedness] that cannot wither. 26 Therefore I do not run uncertainly (without definite aim). I do not box like one beating the air and striking without an adversary. 27 But [like a boxer] I buffet my body [handle it roughly, discipline it by hardships] and subdue it, for fear that after proclaiming to others the Gospel and things pertaining to it, I myself should become unfit [not stand the test, be unapproved and rejected as a counterfeit]. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: James 2-3:1-13,
Ezekiel 20-21

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 John 4:15-21,
Daniel 3-4

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **The Ministry Of The Word And The Spirit In The Church** Friday, November 18th . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **The Ministry Of The Word And The Spirit In The Church** Friday, November 18th . Pastor Chris

Teach me good judgment and knowledge: for I have believed thy commandments (Psalm 119:66).

There’re things people do that put them in bondage, and destroy the works of their hands, unbeknownst to them. In Matthew 22:29, Jesus said “…Ye do err, not knowing the scriptures, nor the power of God.” One of such errors you must avoid is treating Church services lightly. You must make it a priority to attend church services and meetings consistently, and make it a habit to be punctual. Abhor lateness. Just as you’d strive and make all the efforts to be at work early, and be on time for your regular appointments, be even more committed to be early to church.     

The different activities that make up the church service were designed for your spiritual growth, comfort, and edification. By being present, you make the corporate ministry of the Word and the ministry of the Holy Spirit available to yourself. In church, the Holy Spirit brings you knowledge, understanding, and sound judgment.

If for any reason you’re not going to be able to make it for a service in your local church, find out about the possibility of online attendance, so you can participate from wherever you are. The Church is the ground and pillar of truth; it’s the place where you’re taught God’s Word and thoroughly equipped to live the authentic christian life, and carry out your evangelical work effectively. It’s the place where you’re taught how to use the Word, live in the Word, live by the Word, and live through the Word.

The Psalmist said in Psalm 119:66, “Teach me good judgment and knowledge: for I have believed thy commandments.” In other words, “Teach me how to say what I should say, when to say it, and to say it rightly.” This can only come as you yield yourself to the ministry of the Word and the Holy Spirit, and being in church gives you such an opportunity. Through the ministry of the Word and the Spirit in the church, you receive divine counsel and sound doctrine that help you live victoriously.

                   PRAYER

Dear Father, thank you for teaching me sound judgment through your Word. I’m delighted to belong in a local assembly, where I’m taught the Word, equipped, trained, nurtured, built and edified for victorious living, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || Ephesians 4:11-13 And he gave some, apostles; and some, prophets; and some, evangelists; and some, pastors and teachers; 12 For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ: 13 Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ: ||

|| Luke 4:16 And he came to Nazareth, where he had been brought up: and, as his custom was, he went into the synagogue on the sabbath day, and stood up for to read. ||

|| Matthew 16:18 And I say also unto thee, That thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church; and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: James 1,
Ezekiel 17-19

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 John 4:1-14,
Daniel 1-2

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Frame Your Life And Thinking With The Word** Thursday, November 17th . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
**Frame Your Life And Thinking With The Word**
Thursday, November 17th . Pastor Chris

All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness (2 Timothy 3:16).

The Word is profitable to change your way of thinking. This is what the Lord wants. He desires to change your opinion about Him, about other people, about the world, your perception about life, and even about yourself. He wants you to think right all the time. If you had fear in your life, for example, He wants you to replace it with faith, boldness, and confidence. 2 Timothy 1:7 says, “For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind.”

The Word is the solution for every problem; therefore, you must trust the integrity of God’s Word. God has given you the Scriptures to keep you on the right path, the path of His glory and righteousness. He’s given you His Word to use in navigating your way through life, in victory and success. Isaiah 30:21 says, “And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it, when ye turn to the right hand, and when ye turn to the left.” He seeks to change your mindset, the way you reason, and keep you in the path of His glorious destiny for you, through His Word. 

Romans 12:2 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.” One of the ways to change your thinking, and ultimately your life from glory to glory is through meditation. As you meditate on the Word, your life is programmed for success, and your thinking is elevated to God’s level. That’s because the Word has a ministry in your life. The Word helps you frame your life and thinking in line with the perfect will of God.

1 Timothy 4:15 says, “Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all.” As you yield to the Word and let it have power in your life, you’ll experience greater transformation—increased glory, excellence and beauties of the Spirit in your life.

                   PRAYER

Dear Father, thank you for your Word that transforms my life and renews my thinking. As I meditate on your Word today, my heart is filled with excellent thoughts of victory and dominion, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || 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. ||

|| Ephesians 3:20 Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, ||

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

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 13,
Ezekiel 16

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 John 3:13-24,
Ezekiel 48

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Stand Strong In “The Evil Day” ** Wednesday 16th November . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES  **Stand Strong In “The Evil Day” ** Wednesday 16th November  . Pastor Chris

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

The Apostle Paul tells us in Ephesians 5:16 that the days are evil: “Redeeming the time, because the days are evil.” It’s like saying the influence of each day in the world is satanic, but God expects us to master each day and walk in the dominion of the Spirit. Now, that’s a generic statement. On the other hand, I’ll like you to notice the specificity in the admonition in our opening verse. It refers to “the evil day.” This is different. Here, he lays emphasis on a specific day of trouble. It’s the day when trouble strikes.

Can such a day be anticipated and nipped in the bud? Emphatically, yes! Through the guidance of the Word and the Holy Spirit in your life, you’ll always be victorious in the day of trouble. You don’t have to dread “the evil day”; if you do what you’re supposed to do before it comes, you’ll be unperturbed and unruffled; you’ll remain standing. It’s no use praying and crying to God to protect you from the evil day. He already told you what to do: put on the whole armour of God!

Don’t wait until the evil day comes to put them on; keep them on always, so that in the day of adversity, you’ll come out unscathed; you’ll be victorious. Some people are unable to withstand the pressure and terror of the adversary, because they’re not putting on the whole armour of God. They’re unprepared in the day of trouble. Refuse to be caught unawares.

You’ve already been told how to resist and prevail against the wiles and onslaught of the evil one. So, act on the Word: Stand firm with the belt of truth buckled around your waist! Have on the breastplate of righteousness. Have your feet fitted and ready to proclaim the Gospel of peace. Above all, take the shield of faith, the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the Word of God (Ephesians 6:14-17).

God’s Word is the solution, answer, ability, and empowerment that you need in the day of trouble. Therefore, take your study and meditation on the Word seriously. Respond always with the Word and you’ll forever be victorious.

                CONFESSION

Dear Father, your Word prevails in me and puts me over always. I triumph gloriously over the adversary and all adversities by the power of your Word, through which I totally discomfit, render inoperative and ineffective, the wiles, and machinations of the enemy, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || 2 Corinthians 2:14 Now thanks [be] unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. ||

|| 1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. ||

|| 2 Corinthians 10:4-5 (For the weapons of our warfare [are] not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds;) 5 Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ; ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 12:14-29,
Ezekiel 13-15

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 John 3:1-12,
Ezekiel 47

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Living In His Victory** Tuesday 15th November . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES  **Living In His Victory** Tuesday 15th November  . Pastor Chris

Nay, in all these things WE ARE MORE THAN CONQUERORS through him that loved us (Romans 8:37).

Notice the underlined statement in the opening text. It says, “…we are more than conquerors….” This suggests that the victory over the adversary is an old conclusion, and not only that, we’re already basking in the victory; it’s already a vital part of our existence.

The reality is this: we’ve gone past the stage of celebrating our victory in Christ. We celebrated when we found out about His vicarious sacrifice on our behalf; now we’re living out that victory. “More than conquerors” means you’ve passed conquering; you’re now living in the victory; it has become your daily experience.

Take for example, an athlete who competes in the Olympics, and wins the Gold Medal. At that instant, he joyously celebrates his victory with other wellwishers. When he receives the prize-money and starts spending or living off it, it’s no longer an expression of celebration; he’s now living in it. It’s become a vital experience. So, he’s gone past “conquering” or winning the Olympic gold; he’s relishing the spoil or result of his victory, as it were. That’s our experience as being more than conquerors.

We’ve passed the level of celebrating the victory we have in Christ over sickness, poverty, defeat, and discouragements. We enjoy and live in divine health, prosperity, victory, and dominion. We’re no longer trying to find out whether we have some issues with the devil; no! We’re superior to him. Exercise your dominion over Satan, fear, sickness, discouragement and lack. Live in the victory of Christ.

The day you were born again, you were born into total and continuous victory. Therefore, live each day of your life in victory over every situation. That’s the life of the believer. Victory is your birthright. Have the consciousness that you can’t be defeated or disadvantaged. Walk in the light of your victory over the world, the devil, and the circumstances of life! Have the mindset of a victor.

               CONFESSION

I thank you, dear Lord, for making me more than a conqueror; a victor in Christ Jesus and an overcomer in this life. The greater One lives in me; therefore I’ve overcome the adversary and the systems of this world. I live triumphantly every day, enjoying the blessed and transcendent life in Christ. Hallelujah.

Further Study: || 1 John 4:4 Ye are of God, little children, and have overcome them: because greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world. ||

|| 2 Corinthians 2:14 Now thanks [be] unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ, and maketh manifest the savour of his knowledge by us in every place. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 12:1-13,
Ezekiel 11-12

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 John 2:15-29,
Ezekiel 46

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Transmit Love** Monday 14th November . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES  **Transmit Love** Monday 14th November  . Pastor Chris

A new commandment I give unto you, That ye love one another; as I have loved you, that ye also love one another (John 13:34).

We’re in the last days, and it’s our discovery, and expression of the love of Christ that’ll usher us into that place where we’ll be ready for the King’s expected return. That’s what’s going to get us prepared for the rapture of the Church, and take us to the highest level of His grace. The earlier you make that discovery, the better. There’re no two ways about it: you have to walk in love.

A good number of Christians don’t know what it is to walk in love. It’s amazing how people carry out ministry for Christ without knowing that love is truly all that matters. It makes no difference what you do for the Lord; if it’s not from a heart of love, it’s useless. Be love-inspired all the time. Speak the love-language. Transmit love through your words and actions.

Galatians 6:7 says, “Be not deceived; God is not mocked….” Someone may deceive himself and pretend to be walking in love, but the Bible says God searches the heart. He sees your heart; and He knows whether or not you’re motivated by love or by selfishness. One sure way you can measure your love-walk is from your tongue—your communication. James explained thus: “My brethren, be not many masters, knowing that we shall receive the greater condemnation. For in many things we offend all. If any man offend not in word, the same is a perfect man, and able also to bridle the whole body” (James 3:1-2).

Tame your tongue to be gracious, and affectionate. Be inspiring in your communication. Let people remember you for how glorious, inspired, and strengthened you made them feel from the words they received from you. Your words locate you. They determine whether you’ve discovered His love.

It doesn’t really matter what anybody thinks about you or what you say or think about yourself; what matters most are the words that come out of your mouth every day, irrespective of who you’re talking to: God, men, yourself, circumstances or nature. Be sure that your words and actions transmit the love of God that’s in your heart.

                   PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for giving me the ability to speak and express the God-life through my words and actions. My life is the daily expression and manifestation of divine love. You’ve anointed my mind to think and express your grace and love, guiding me to speak gracious and life-giving words only, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || Romans 5:5 And hope maketh not ashamed; because the love of God is shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost which is given unto us. ||

|| 1 Corinthians 13:8 CEV Love never fails! Everyone who prophesies will stop, and unknown languages will no longer be spoken. All that we know will be forgotten. ||

|| 1 John 5:2-3 By this we know that we love the children of God, when we love God, and keep his commandments. 3 For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 11:17-40,
Ezekiel 8-10

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 John 2:1-14,
Ezekiel 45

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **The Word And You** Sunday 13th November . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES  **The Word And You** Sunday 13th November  . Pastor Chris

For with God nothing is ever impossible and no word from God shall be without power or impossible of fulfillment (Luke 1:37 AMP).

God’s Word is full of power, and that power is real and available to us. However, the way to make contact with that power and use it to your benefit is walking in the Word. Some people think that God makes a choice and says, “I want to bless this person and not the other one. I want to heal this one and not the other; I want to make this person a success, and not this other person.” But that’s not the way God is.

John 3:16 says, “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.” God loves everybody, including sinners who don’t know Him. He sent Jesus to die for everybody. The salvation that Jesus brought is for everybody. In the mind of God, the whole world has been saved, but not everybody is experiencing the vital benefits of salvation. However, with regard to the salvation of the world, God already did all that’s necessary.

The missing link for many is how to make that which God has given to them—that which He’s already done—not only available, but a vital experience in their personal lives. How can you make contact with the power He’s made available to you? How do you make His Word effective in the “now” of your life? Yes, Jesus died for you, was raised from the dead, and He’s alive today, but what does that mean to you personally? How can He be shown and proved to be alive in your life, in your heart, in your home, and in your circumstances twenty-four hours a day?

The answer is simple: walk in the Word. Accept and trust the Word of God in its simplicity. When you hear or study the Word as it pertains to the new creation in Christ, personalize it, because that’s God talking to you. Seize what He’s made available; take a hold of it, and make it personal to you; arrest and take possession of the Word. Apprehend it; run with it; use it; live by it! That’s what God wants you to do with His Word.

                   PRAYER

Dear heavenly Father, I thank you for your Word that dwells richly in my heart and for its power to produce a transformation in my life! My heart and mind are open to receive that personal Word of power, victory and triumph; I’m yielded to your Word, for it puts me over and causes me to excel in all that I do, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || 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. ||

|| Colossians 3:16 Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 11:1-16,
Ezekiel 5-7

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 John 1:1-10,
Ezekiel 44

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES SATURDAY, 12TH NOVEMBER. PRINCIPLES, RELATIONSHIPS AND ACTIONS.

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES SATURDAY, 12TH NOVEMBER.

PRINCIPLES, RELATIONSHIPS AND ACTIONS.

I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way, which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye
(Psalm 32:8).

The human spirit or person is influenced by three important factors: principles, relationships, and actions. These three control your plans, purposes, and pursuits in life. A principle is a moral rule, belief or an assumption that controls, influences or explains personal conduct or the behaviour of a society. It explains how or why something works or happens the way it does. It’s also a basic theory or truth; an idea that forms the basis for anything.

Individuals, families, and even societies can have their own principles, which they created consciously or unconsciously for themselves. These are principles they formed through certain beliefs, ideas, and assumptions in their heads. There’re certain people who, for example, say that they don’t believe in God; they’re living according to a particular principle or thought; an idea in their minds. Now, whether that idea is right or wrong isn’t what we’re dealing with, but the fact that that principle is what orders, controls and influences their lives.

The second factor is relationships. There’re different kinds of relationships: biological, geographical, emotional, spiritual. These forms of relationships have something to do with your life. The family you come from, your neighbours, friends, and colleagues; your interaction with them every day has some influence on your life. Your friends—those that make you happy or sad—have an influence on your life. Then your spiritual relationships: your relationship with God, the devil, demons, angels, fellow Christians, and even with those who don’t know God; they all exercise certain spiritual influence on your life, positively or negatively.

The third is your actions. Every action has consequences, and many don’t realize this. The important thing about your actions isn’t about now; it’s about the ripple effect they’ll have on the rest of your life. Your present actions, most certainly, have already affected your tomorrow, whether or not you realize it.

Have a good understanding of these three factors, and channel them in the right direction for your benefit, so that you’ll live by the right principles, have the right relationships, take the right actions, and become all that God wants you to be. Hallelujah!

PRAYER
Dear Father, I thank you for the instructiveness of your Word. I’m guided aright by your Word, as I meditate on it. I observe and actualize Word-based principles in my life. I engage in the right relationships, and my actions are always in accordance with your Word, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study:
1 Timothy 4:15-16  Meditate upon these things; give thyself wholly to them; that thy profiting may appear to all. 16 Take heed unto thyself, and unto the doctrine; continue in them: for in doing this thou shalt both save thyself, and them that hear thee.

Psalm 1:1-5  Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful. 2 But his delight is in the law of the LORD; and in his law doth he meditate day and night. 3 And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper.4 The ungodly are not so: but are like the chaff which the wind driveth away.5 Therefore the ungodly shall not stand in the judgment, nor sinners in the congregation of the righteous.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Hebrews 10:19-39, Ezekiel 3-4
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Peter 3:1-18, Ezekiel 43

...Please do download more inspiring messages from Pastor Chris through the link below👇👇👇 http://bit.ly/2dZqtLQ God bless you.

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **We’re Supremely Blessed** Friday 11th November . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES  **We’re Supremely Blessed** Friday 11th November  . Pastor Chris

Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed (John 20:29).

The word “blessed” in the verse above is the Greek “makarios,” and it means, “To be supremely blessed.” It’s a transcendental blessing. It means you’ve been lifted beyond the ordinary realm. The believing ones are independent of circumstances. They’ve been lifted to another level. “Makarios” isn’t a bestowal, but a lifting. It’s a blessing of separation. You can be blessed as in “eulogeo,” that is, things are conferred on you, but in “makarios,” you’re separated; you’re lifted; then others take special notice of you and say, “He’s supremely blessed; he’s not like us; he doesn’t belong here.” What a blessing!

This is something totally new coming from the Master about the new creation. He says, “Blessed are those who have not seen but yet believed.” He’s referring to those who have been freed from their senses or the flesh. This was the message that Paul was able to grasp which many of the disciples couldn’t quite comprehend. He tells us in Romans 8:1, “There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.” This, in other words, refers to the Church that lives in the world, but has been transported beyond this realm of human limitations; the sense-realm.

This theme is further expressed in the Spirit’s prayer through Paul for the Church in Ephesians 3:16-17, “That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by his Spirit in the inner man; That Christ may dwell in your hearts by faith….” Christ dwells in your heart by faith, not by feeling or sensory perception. We’re not like those who say, “I feel the presence of God in me now;” no! We’ve passed that level! We’ve been transported (“Makarios”) beyond that realm. We’ve been catapulted by faith into the realm of existence where the Word of God is the only reality; the realm where we walk by faith and not by sight. This is the new creation; we’re supremely blessed! Hallelujah!

                   PRAYER

I thank you, righteous Father, for blessing me beyond measure and transporting me into the realm where there’re no limitations. I walk by faith and not by sight; I live in, and by the Word only. I proclaim that all spiritual blessings in heavenly places are mine, and I walk in victory, righteousness, and dominion forever, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || Hebrews 10:38 Now the just shall live by faith: but if [any man] draw back, my soul shall have no pleasure in him. ||

|| 2 Corinthians 5:7 (For we walk by faith, not by sight:) ||

|| Ephesians 1:3 Blessed [be] the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly [places] in Christ: ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 10:1-18,
Ezekiel 1-2

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Peter 2:1-22,
Ezekiel 42

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES THURSDAY, 10TH NOVEMBER. BEYOND HEALING.

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES THURSDAY, 10TH NOVEMBER.

BEYOND HEALING.

Beloved, I wish above all things that thou mayest prosper and be in health, even as thy soul prospereth (3 John 1:2).

Someone asked a question: “Is it possible to be healed by God, and then lose the healing?” In answering, let’s recall the account of the lame man Jesus healed at the pool of Bethesda in John chapter five. Jesus saw the same man in the temple after he had been healed and said to him, “...Behold, thou art made whole: sin no more, lest a worse thing come unto thee” (John 5:14). This statement answers the question in focus: People could lose their healing and even get into a more precarious state than they were before they got healed.

It’s similar to what Jesus said about unclean spirits: “When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none. Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished. Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first...” (Matthew 12:43-45).

God wants you to look beyond healing. Healing is temporary; everyone Jesus healed in the Bible lived, and still died eventually. This is why at the Healing School, we teach people not just how to receive healing but how to keep their healing and sustain themselves in the divine life. It’s not enough to be healed. God’s best is that you live in divine health. Someone who’s healed of a certain ailment could get sick again with a different diagnosis.

Thus, the most important thing is your life with God—your spiritual life. What life are you really living with God? It’s not about healing; it’s about the Word of God and your life. Make the Word of God your source and your foundation. Live in, and by the Word of God, and learn to glorify God with your life. Let your life become an instrument of His glory and righteousness, and you’ll live triumphantly over sickness, diseases, sin, Satan, darkness, death and the world. Hallelujah!

Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for the working of your Word in my Spirit. Your Word constantly and consistently renews my mind, and I walk in your perfect will, bearing fruits of righteousness. You’re exalted in me today; your glory fills me through and through, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further study:
Isaiah 33:24 And the inhabitant shall not say, I am sick: the people that dwell therein shall be forgiven their iniquity.

1 Peter 2:24 Who his own self bare our sins in his own body on the tree, that we, being dead to sins, should live unto righteousness: by whose stripes ye were healed.

1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
Hebrews 9:11-28, Lamentations 3-5
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Peter 1:13 -22 Ezekiel 41

...Please do download more inspiring messages from Pastor Chris through the link below👇👇👇
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RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Beholding Yourself In Him** Wednesday 9th November . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES  **Beholding Yourself In Him** Wednesday 9th November  . Pastor Chris

But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord (2 Corinthians 3:18).

“Glass” as used in the verse above is the Greek “katoptrizomai” and it means to mirror oneself. The Word of God is the mirror of God that reflects the real you, and that real you is the glory of God. This is what Paul explains by the Spirit; he says we’re transformed into what we see as we study and meditate on the Word.

The glory of the Word is an ever-increasing glory. The NIV says, “And we all, who with unveiled faces contemplate the Lord’s glory, are being transformed into his image with ever-increasing glory, which comes from the Lord, who is the Spirit.” As you look, you see more glory; and the result is that you become the image (the “more glory”) that you see. Hallelujah.

James 1:23 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.” Your job is to keep beholding (looking) at the glory of God in a mirror. Hold that mirror before you all the time, and surely, the Word will cause a transformation in your life. It’ll change your state and install you in your “estate.”

This is what you need, if you’ve been trying to break certain unwholesome habits. Don’t say, “I’m working on changing,” no; don’t work on changing; just do what God says, and the change will take place. Keep studying and meditating on the Word and you’ll be metamorphosed—changed—from glory to glory; it’s an extraordinary ministry of the Word of God in our spirits.

The more you behold Him in the Word, the more you see that you’re exactly like Him. No wonder He tells us, “…as He is, so are we in this world” (1 John 4:17). Use the mirror of God every day. Look at yourself in the Word and see yourself in Him.

                   PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for the ministry of your Word in my life. As I contemplate your Word today, your glory and power are revealed and released in my spirit. I’m transfigured from glory to glory, in ever-increasing splendour, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || 2 Corinthians 3:18 AMP 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. ||

|| Joshua 1:8 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. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 9:1-10,
Lamentations 1-2

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 2 Peter 1:1-12,
Ezekiel 40

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Acquire Spiritual Knowledge** Monday 7th November . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES  **Acquire Spiritual Knowledge** Monday 7th November  . Pastor Chris

Then shall we know, if we follow on to know the Lord… (Hosea 6:3).

Consider the Lord’s loving admonition and invitation in Isaiah 1:19 TLB: “If you will only let me help you, if you will only obey, then I will make you rich!” Many don’t know this, and as a result, haven’t consciously given the Lord the chance to help them; no wonder they live in defeat, poverty, sickness, and penury.

Let this loving admonition and invitation of the Father resonate in your heart today. The King James Version says, “If ye be willing and obedient, ye shall eat the good of the land.” We already fulfilled the act of obedience when we made Jesus Lord of our lives. No wonder He calls us obedient children (1 Peter 1:14). Now, you’re to live in God’s Word; not to obey, but to do the Word. If you do the Word, you’ll eat the good of the land.

The Bible says the earth is full of the goodness of the Lord (Psalm 33:5). Therefore, affirm that the lines are fallen unto you in pleasant places; you have a goodly heritage (Psalms 16:6). Believe, declare, and act on the Word.

God said, “My people are destroyed for the lack of knowledge...” (Hosea 4:6). Notice that He didn’t say, “Sinners are destroyed for lack of knowledge”; rather, He said, “My people…,” that means Christians. God’s own people are crushed, oppressed, made victims in life not because they lack the knowledge of economics, government, physics or theology; no! It’s because they lack revelation knowledge or spiritual knowledge of God’s Word.

When revelation knowledge comes into your spirit, it enlightens you and catapults you to a higher realm of life. Go for the Word.

                   PRAYER

Dear Father, I rejoice, because you’ve granted me such an awesome inheritance in Christ, bequeathing unto me an awesome heritage! Every day, I bring honour and glory to you, for making me a partaker of the glorious inheritance of the saints in the kingdom of light, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || 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 3:15-17 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. ||

|| Romans 1:16-17 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. 17 For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 7,
Jeremiah 50-51

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Peter 4:1-19,
Ezekiel 38

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Your Response Is Important** Saturday 5th November . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES  **Your Response Is Important** Saturday 5th November  . Pastor Chris

Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ (Ephesians 1:3).

Our opening verse is an affirmation of what has already been done for you in Christ! You’ve been blessed with all spiritual blessings, and by extension, all physical blessings as well, because the lesser is included in the greater. Now, in spite of this divine truth, the experience of many is at variance with what God has said in His Word, and it’s largely because they’re yet to give the Word the right and required response.

Even if Jesus appeared to you, or God sent His angel, telling you that you’ve been blessed, if you don’t respond to Him, you’ll miss the blessing. You might say, “If it’s God, I’ll definitely walk in the blessings,” no; that’s not the way it works. You have a part to play; you’ve got to respond by affirming the same thing with Him in consent, and walk accordingly.

Jesus said in Revelation 3:20, “Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.” What if the man doesn’t respond by opening the door? He’ll simply go away! So, just because God has said something to you doesn’t mean it’s going to come to pass; you’re the one to make it come to pass through your faith-response.

The Word of God that produces blessings for you is the one you put to work in your personal life. It’s akin to how you received salvation. Jesus already paid the price and saved everyone in the world. But then, the Bible says, “…if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Romans 10:9).

From God’s point of view, legally, everyone in the world has already been saved, following the substitutionary work of Christ on the cross for all men. However, until and unless, the sinner responds by believing in Jesus Christ, and confessing His Lordship, he’ll not be catapulted into the vital aspect of his salvation. Your response to the Word matters. The Bible says He has said, so that we might boldly say… (Hebrews 13:5,6).

               CONFESSION

My spirit responds to the Word, and my faith produces the desired results. I walk in divine health, victory, dominion, and in the power of the Spirit today. Hallelujah!

Further Study: || 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; ||

|| Hebrews 11:1 Now faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 4:14-5:1-10,
Jeremiah 44-47

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Peter 3:1-12,
Ezekiel 36

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Walking In Divine Wisdom** Friday 4th November . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES  **Walking In Divine Wisdom** Friday 4th November  . Pastor Chris

For the wisdom of this world is foolishness with God… (1 Corinthians 3:19).

To be a true success in life, you must walk in divine wisdom. Walking in divine wisdom means walking in the Word; living out the Word, because the Word of God is the wisdom of God. The great men and women of faith we read about in the Bible distinguished themselves by following God’s Word.

Joshua, for example, walked with God according to the instructions he received from the Lord, and recorded remarkable victories for the children of Israel (Joshua 8:1-24). Isaac also walked with God. There was famine in the land and many were migrating to Egypt for greener pastures. Isaac made ready to go to Egypt as well, but God told him not to. Instead, God instructed him to remain in Gerar where there was famine and sow in the land (Genesis 26:2-4).

Imagine God telling you to remain in a country that’s ravaged by famine, where things look hard and dry; would you harken to His words? His ways and “thinkings” are different from man’s ways. It’s wisdom to do what He says and follow His instructions, even when they don’t appeal to human reasoning.

Isaac didn’t continue with his own agenda; he followed the Lord’s leading and prospered exceedingly in the same land that had been impoverished by famine. When everyone else dug a well for water, they didn’t find water, but when Isaac dug for water, he found water, in the same dry land. The Bible says, “Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him. And the man waxed great, and went forward, and grew until he became very great: For he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him” (Genesis 26:12-14).

You may use your human mind to reason out different things about your life and ministry in God’s house, but God’s wisdom is greater than man’s wisdom. Function in, and with, the wisdom and understanding of God’s Word. Follow the leading of the Spirit in your life, and you’ll always be victorious.   

                   PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for your wisdom that’s at work in my spirit, which is also increased even now through your Word that I’ve received today. I walk in divine wisdom, fulfilling your perfect will, and bringing you glory in all that I do, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.  

Further Study: || 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. ||

|| Proverbs 4:7 Wisdom [is] the principal thing; [therefore] get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding. ||

|| 1 Corinthians 1:24-25 But unto them which are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God, and the wisdom of God. 25 Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men; and the weakness of God is stronger than men. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 4:1-13,
Jeremiah 41-43

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Peter 2:13-25,
Ezekiel 35

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES ✨Three Important Elements Of Prayer✨ Wednesday 2nd November . Pastor Chris

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES  ✨Three Important Elements Of Prayer✨ Wednesday 2nd November  . Pastor Chris

Pray without ceasing (1 Thessalonians 5:17).

Prayer is an important aspect of who we are as Christians; it’s our priestly ministry to pray. Jesus said, “…men ought always to pray, and not to faint” (Luke 18:1). Oftentimes, people go through difficulties in their lives and don’t know what to do. Not many know how to pray the right way. God told us to pray, not for praying sake, but because He planned to answer. In addition, there’re vital rules and elements of prayer that, if and when clearly understood and applied, would make your prayers more effective. 

One of the elements of prayer is praying in the Name of Jesus. Jesus gave us the power of attorney to use His Name, which means when we pray, we’re standing in His stead: “…Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you” (John 16:23). You’re to live in the Name of Jesus; function in His place, with His authority, and in His character. What a thought! Colossians 3:17 says, “…whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks....” When you pray, it carries the same power and authority as though Jesus Himself were the one speaking.

The second important element of prayer is that we pray in the authority of the Word of God, and the revelation and insight given to us by the Word of God. This means our faith must be based on what God’s Word says, because if God’s Word covers whatever we’re praying about, then we can be sure to receive answers, because we’re asking in line with His Word. Faith is based on the Word. True faith is only imparted by the Word. Romans 10:17 declares that faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word.

The third element is that we pray by the power of the Holy Spirit. Some Christians pray and nothing happens because the words spoken aren’t inspired and communicated by the power of the Holy Spirit. You have to pray always by the Holy Spirit; the words have to be energized, communicated, inspired, and anointed by the Holy Ghost. That’s what makes the difference.

When you study the Book of Acts, you’ll find that the apostles took advantage of these three elements of prayer: the Name of Jesus, the Word of God and the power of the Holy Spirit. No wonder they had such extraordinary results, and a marvelous impact with the Gospel.

                   PRAYER

Dear Father, I thank you for the privilege and honour to pray in the Name of Jesus, the glory of praying in the authority of your Word, and the extraordinary benefit of praying in the power of the Spirit. I receive answers when I pray, because the Holy Spirit guides me in prayer; nothing is impossible to me, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

Further Study: || John 15:16 Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and [that] your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you. ||

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

|| James 5:16-17 AMP Confess to one another therefore your faults (your slips, your false steps, your offenses, your sins) and pray [also] for one another, that you may be healed and restored [to a spiritual tone of mind and heart]. The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]. 17 Elijah was a human being with a nature such as we have [with feelings, affections, and a constitution like ours]; and he prayed earnestly for it not to rain, and no rain fell on the earth for three years and six months. ||

Daily Scripture Reading

1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Hebrews 2,
Jeremiah 36-37

2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Peter 1:13-25,
Ezekiel 33

EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional.