Monday 26 September 2016

LERAN HOW TO BE A LIVING AND NOT A DEAD SACRIFICE TO GOD

A Living Sacrifice
12 Therefore, I urge you, brothers and sisters, in view of God’s mercy, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God—this is your true and proper worship. NIV

12 I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. KJV

Dedicated Service
12 [a]Therefore I urge you, [b]brothers and sisters, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies [dedicating all of yourselves, set apart] as a living sacrifice, holy and well-pleasing to God, which is your rational (logical, intelligent) act of worship. AMP

YOU AS A LIVING SACCRIFICE TO GOD

Romans 12:1
I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God,
&c.] The apostle having finished the doctrinal part of this epistle, proceeds to that which is more practical; and enforces the several duties of religion, upon the principles he had before laid down, a method generally observed by him in all his epistles. The illative particle "therefore", shows that the following exhortations are so many conclusions, consequences, and inferences, deduced from what had been said in the latter part of the preceding chapter; that since all things are of God, and by him and to him, then the saints ought to present their bodies to him, and to know, approve, and do his will; and since they have nothing but what they have received from him, they ought not to think too highly of, or glory in their attainments. The introduction to these exhortations, is in a very kind and affectionate manner; the saints are addressed as "brethren", and very appropriately; since this expresses the relation they stood in to the apostle, for whom he had an hearty love and concern; and therefore what he pressed them to was out of a sincere regard to their good, as well as to the glory of God; also their relation to each other, and which several of the duties he urges had a connection with; likewise their relation to God, being of his family, having one and the same Father, and so under obligation to regard his will, honour and reverence him: moreover, these things are moved, not in an imperious way, in an authoritative manner, but by way of entreaty, "I beseech you"; as an ambassador of Christ, and as though in his stead: nor are they enforced by terrors, threats, and menaces, but "by the mercies of God"; that is, the abundant mercy of God, displayed in their election, regeneration, and calling; than which, nothing can have a greater influence on a believer, to engage him to holiness of life and conversation; and shows, that the doctrines of grace are no licentious ones, nor do they render useless precepts, exhortations, entreaties, cautions, and advice, particularly such as follow;
that ye present your bodies;
not barely that part of them commonly so called, for this is not to be understood of a mere presentation of the body in public worship: for though this ought to be, yet not without the heart engaged therein, otherwise bodily exercise will be of no avail; nor of a bare abstinence from grosser sins done in the body, and against it, and which defile and dishonour it; much less of a maceration, and keeping under the body, by watchings, fasting, &c. and still less of an offering of the body at death in a way of martyrdom, though this ought to be cheerfully complied with when called for: but by their bodies are meant, themselves, their whole souls and bodies, all the powers and faculties of their souls, and members of their bodies; and the presenting of them, designs a devoting of them, with all readiness and willingness, to the service of God for his honour and glory, without putting any confidence in, or placing any dependence upon them; which would be sacrificing to their own net, and burning incense to their drag; it includes the whole of their service, conversation, and religion, internal and external. So the Jews F11 say,
``worthy is the portion of the righteous, who offer every day this offering before the Lord; and what is it? (whyyvpnw whyymrg) , "their bodies and their souls", which they offer before him.''
The allusion is to the rite of sacrificing, to the bringing of the slain beast, and laying it on the altar, and there presenting and offering it to the Lord. Under the Gospel dispensation all believers are priests; and the sacrifices they bring are not the bodies of slain beasts, but their own bodies, their whole selves; and these
a living sacrifice,
in opposition to the bodies of slain beasts offered under the legal dispensation, and to the dead works of such as are destitute of faith in Christ, and to the lifeless performances of the saints themselves at certain times; and designs such a presentation of themselves in the performance of religious duties, as springs from a principle of life under the quickening influences of the Spirit of God, with faith and fervency; though without any view to obtain life hereby, for that is only by the offering up of the body of Christ once for all. Another epithet of this sacrifice of our bodies to God is
holy,
in allusion to the sacrifices under the law, which were separated from common use, and devoted to God, and were not to have the least spot and blemish in them; and regards men sanctified by the Spirit of God, and whose actions flow from a principle of holiness, and are performed under the influence of the Holy Spirit; and such sacrifices as are both living and holy, cannot but be
acceptable to God
through the mediation of his Son, by whom, as the persons, the souls and bodies of his people, so their spiritual sacrifices, whether of prayer or praise, are only acceptable to him:
which is your reasonable service;
it is agreeably to reason, and especially as sanctified, that men who have their beings from God, and are upheld in them by him, and are followed with the bounties of Providence; and especially who are made new creatures, and are blessed by him with all spiritual blessings in Christ, that they should give up themselves to him, and cheerfully serve him in their day and generation; such service is also agreeably to the Scriptures of truth, the standard of filth and practice, and contain and enforce nothing but what is highly reasonable to be complied with; it is such service as lies not in the slaying of irrational creatures, but in the presenting of men endued with rational powers unto God; and is of a spiritual nature, performed by spiritual men, under the influence of the Spirit of God: and is suitable to the nature and perfections of God, and stands opposed to the corporeal and carnal service of the Jews.
SOURCE, JOHN GILL EXPOSITION

BIBLE VERSES ON SERVING GOD, KJV


1 Samuel 12:24 - Only fear the LORD, and serve him in truth with all your heart: for consider how great [things] he hath done for you.

Colossians 3:23-24 - And whatsoever ye do, do [it] heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;   (Read More...)

2 Corinthians 9:7 - Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, [so let him give]; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.

Romans 12:1 - I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, [which is] your reasonable service.

1 Corinthians 15:58 - Therefore, my beloved brethren, be ye stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord.

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:

Malachi 3:18 - Then shall ye return, and discern between the righteous and the wicked, between him that serveth God and him that serveth him not.

Deuteronomy 13:4 - Ye shall walk after the LORD your God, and fear him, and keep his commandments, and obey his voice, and ye shall serve him, and cleave unto him.

Matthew 6:24 - No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

Colossians 3:17 - And whatsoever ye do in word or deed, [do] all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him.

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 Chronicles 28:9 - And thou, Solomon my son, know thou the God of thy father, and serve him with a perfect heart and with a willing mind: for the LORD searcheth all hearts, and understandeth all the imaginations of the thoughts: if thou seek him, he will be found of thee; but if thou forsake him, he will cast thee off for ever.

1 Timothy 4:12 - Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity.

Matthew 6:20-24 - But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:   (Read More...)

Matthew 20:1 - 24:51 - For the kingdom of heaven is like unto a man [that is] an householder, which went out early in the morning to hire labourers into his vineyard.   (Read More...)

Psalms 27:5 - For in the time of trouble he shall hide me in his pavilion: in the secret of his tabernacle shall he hide me; he shall set me up upon a rock.

James 1:27 - Pure religion and undefiled before God and the Father is this, To visit the fatherless and widows in their affliction, [and] to keep himself unspotted from the world.

1 Timothy 1:12 - And I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry;

HEALING BY SERVING GOD

Exod 23:25-26
25 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. 26 There shall nothing cast their young, nor be barren, in thy land: the number of thy days I will fulfil

Thursday 22 September 2016

HEALTH CONFESSION IN THE NAME OF JESUS

CONFESSION, The name of Jesus is above every other name, its above cancer, HIV, lungs failure, kidney failure and any disease causing germ. I live and move in the name of Jesus. I declare in the name of Jesus that I am complete in Christ. Nothing is lacking in spirit, soul or body. Everything that is supposed to be in me is there, nothing needs to be added or taken out in the name of Jesus. My heart is beating normally, my lungs are taking in air normally, in the name of Jesus. My kidneys are functioning perfectly well, my muscles and tissues are in perfect condition in Jesus name. My body responds to the word of God and not to sickness, Hallelujah. The very stamp of God is upon me for I am his finished product and live in divine health all the days of my life in Jesus name

WE REIGN AND RULE IN HIS NAME

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES
TUESDAY, 20TH SEPTEMBER, 2016
PASTOR CHRIS OYAKHILOME PHD.
THEME: WE REIGN AND RULE IN HIS NAME.
And Jesus came and spake unto them, saying, All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost (Matthew 28:18-19).
In our opening scripture, Jesus said, “All power is given unto me in heaven and in earth.” The word “power” here is the Greek “exousia”; it means authority. “All power,” not “some power,” has been given to Jesus, in heaven and in earth.
The Bible says in Colossians 2:15, “And having spoiled principalities and powers, he made a shew of them openly, triumphing over them in it.” When Jesus died, He didn’t ascend to heaven immediately; He had been made sin for us (2 Corinthians 5:21), and had to go to hell on behalf of all men. When He got to hell, there was an actual combat between Jesus and the forces of darkness. The Bible says “...the hostile princes and rulers He shook off from Himself, and boldly displayed them as His conquests…” (Colossians 2:15 WNT).
In hell, Jesus invaded Satan’s domain, whipped him and all his demons, and came out triumphantly from the grave. When He came out, He said to His disciples, “All hail!” (Matthew 28:9). It was a shout of victory, because He’d conquered Satan for us and given us dominion over the powers of darkness. Now, it doesn’t matter whatever hierarchy of demons exist, we’re superior to them; they’re under our feet.
No wonder He says, “Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you” (Luke 10:19). As we spread the message of Christ, taking the Gospel to the nations of the world, we ought to be conscious of our authority and dominion in Christ Jesus. We’re His ambassadors; we’re to keep reigning and ruling in His Name, making pupils of the nations, and filling the earth with the glory of His presence. Hallelujah!
CONFESSION
I’m born of God and therefore, I’ve overcome the world. My faith is producing results; I’m walking in victory and dominion over Satan and circumstances, for the greater One lives in me. Hallelujah!
Further Study:
1 Corinthians 15:57
But thanks [be] to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
Luke 10:19
Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy: and nothing shall by any means hurt you.
1-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Galatians 4:21-5:1-15,
Isaiah 3-5.
2-Year Bible Reading Plan:
1 Timothy 5:1-10,
Jeremiah 38.
Good morning.
Have a Wonderful day.
God bless you!
Study. Share and Comment.

GUYS THIS IS THAT OPPORTUNITY YOU HAVE BEEN WAITING FOR

THE NAME HIGHER THAN ALL NAMES

Philippians 2:9-11Amplified Bible (AMP)
9 For this reason also [because He obeyed and so completely humbled Himself], God has highly exalted Him and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name, 10 so that at the name of Jesus [a]every knee shall bow [in submission], of those who are in heaven and on earth and under the earth, 11 and that every tongue will confess and openly acknowledge that Jesus Christ is Lord (sovereign God), to the glory of God the Father.

THE NAME OF JESUS

Philippians 2:9
Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him
The apostle proceeds to observe the exaltation of Christ, for the encouragement of meek and humble souls; that whereas Christ, who so exceedingly demeaned himself, was afterwards highly exalted by God, so all such who, in imitation of him, behave to one another in lowliness of mind, shall be exalted in God's due time; for whoso humbleth himself, shall be exalted. The first step of Christ's exaltation was his resurrection from the dead, when he had a glory given him as man; his body was raised in incorruption, in glory, in power, and a spiritual one; it became a glorious body, and the pledge and exemplar of the saints at the general resurrection, of which his transfiguration on the mount was an emblem and prelude; and he was also glorified then as Mediator, he was then justified in the Spirit, and acquitted and discharged from all the sins of his people, he took upon him and bore, having satisfied for them; and all God's elect were justified in him, for he rose as a public person, as their head, for their justification; yea, in some sense he was then glorified, as a divine person; not that any new additional glory was, or could be made to him as such; but there was an illustrious manifestation of his natural, essential, and original glory; he was declared to be the Son of God with power, by his resurrection from the dead: the next step of his high exaltation was his ascending on high up to the third heaven, where he is made higher than the heavens; when he was accompanied by an innumerable company of angels, and by those saints whose bodies rose out of their graves after his resurrection; and was received and carried up in a bright glorious cloud; and passing through the air, the seat of the devils, he led captivity captive, and triumphed over principalities and powers, having before spoiled them on his cross; and then entering into heaven, he sat down at the right hand of God, which is another branch of his exaltation; and shows that he had done his work, and that it was approved and accepted of; and had that glory and honour bestowed on him, which never was on any mere creature, angels or men, to sit down on the right hand of the Majesty on high; which as it is the highest pitch of the exaltation of the human nature of Christ, so by it there is a most illustrious display of the glory of his divine person as the Son of God; who was with God, as one brought up with him from all eternity; and was so likewise when here on earth, but not so manifestly; but now he is openly and manifestly glorified with himself, with that glory he had with him before the world began: moreover, Christ's exaltation lies in his having the gifts of the Spirit without measure, to bestow on his ministers and churches, in all succeeding generations, for the carrying on of his interest, and the enlargement of his kingdom; in having all power in heaven and in earth, to complete his work and great designs; in having dominion and authority over all creatures and things, which are made to be subservient to the execution of his mediatorial office; and in having the right and power of judging the world at the last day, when there will still be a more glorious display of his eternal deity and divine sonship; for he will come in his Father's glory, and in his own, and with his holy angels: now the causes of Christ's exaltation are these: the efficient cause is God; though he made himself of no reputation, and humbled himself, these were voluntary acts of his own; yet he did not exalt himself, but God exalted him, even God the Father; with him the covenant of grace and redemption was made, in which glory was promised Christ, in consideration of his obedience, sufferings, and death; and which he prayed to him for, and pleaded for with him, having done his work; and which exaltation of Christ is always ascribed to God, even the Father; see ( Acts 2:33 ) ( 3:13 ) ( 5:31 ) ; the impulsive or moving cause, and indeed the meritorious cause, were the humiliation of Christ; because he, though he was originally so great and glorious, yet made himself as it were nothing, humbled himself to become man, and was contented to be accounted a mere man, and went up and down in the form of a servant; and because he became so cheerfully obedient to the whole law, and to death itself, for the sake of his people, and out of love to them, "therefore" God exalted him: the exaltation of Christ was not only a consequence of his obedience and death, and his humiliation merely the way to his glory; but his high and exalted estate were the reward of all this; it was what was promised him in covenant, what was then agreed upon, what he expected and pleaded, and had as a recompense of reward, in consideration of his having glorified God on earth, and finished the work he undertook to do: it follows as an instance of the exaltation of Christ,
and [hath] given him a name which is above every name.
The Syriac version renders it, "which is more excellent than every name"; and the Arabic version translates it, "which is more eminent than every name"; and the Ethiopic version thus, "which is greater than every name": by which is meant, not any particular and peculiar name by which he is called; not the name of God, for though this is his name, the mighty God, and so is even the incommunicable name Jehovah, and which may be truly said to be every name; but neither of these are given him, but what he has by nature; and besides were what he had before his exaltation in human nature: it is true indeed, upon that this name of his became more illustrious and manifest unto men; it is a more clear point, that he is God over all blessed for evermore; and it will still be more manifest at his glorious appearing, that he is the great God, as well as our Saviour: to which may be added, that the name Jehovah in the plate of gold on the high priest's forehead, was set above the other word; so says Maimonides F13,
``the plate of gold was two fingers broad, and it reached from ear to ear; and there was written upon it two lines, "holiness to the Lord"; (vdq) , "holiness", was written below, and (hlemlm hwhyl) , "to the Lord", or "to Jehovah", above:''
whether here may not be an allusion to this, I leave to be considered: nor do I think that the name of the Son of God is meant; this is indeed a name of Christ, and a more excellent one than either angels or men have; for he is in such sense the Son of God, as neither of them are; but this is a name also which he has by nature, and is what he had before his exaltation; and was before this attested by his Father, and confessed by angels, men, and devils; though indeed upon his exaltation, he was declared more manifestly to be the Son of God, as he will be yet more clearly in his kingdom and glory: much less is the name Jesus intended, which was given him by the angel before his conception and birth, and was a name common to men among the Jews; but it seems to design such fame and renown, honour, glory, and dignity, as were never given unto, and bestowed upon creatures; as his rising from the dead as a public person, his ascending on high in the manner he did, his session at the right hand of God, his investiture with all gifts, power, dominion, authority, and with the judgment of the world; and whatever name of greatness there is among men or angels, Christ has that which is superior to it. Was a priest a name of honour and dignity among the Jews? Christ is not only a priest, and an high priest, but a great high priest; a priest not after the order of Aaron, but after the order of Melchizedek, ( Hebrews 7:11 ) , and a greater than he himself. Is a king a great name among men? Christ has on his vesture and on his thigh a name written, King of kings, and Lord of lords. Is a deliverer of a nation a title of great honour? Christ is exalted to be a Prince and a Saviour of men of all nations; nor is there any other name but his, that is given among men, whereby we must be saved. Is a mediator between warring princes and kingdoms accounted a name of greatness and glory? Christ is the one only Mediator between God and man, and of a new and better covenant. Are angels, seraphim, cherubim, thrones, dominions, principalities, and powers, great names in the other world? Christ is the Angel of God's presence, an eternal one, the Angel of the covenant, the head of all principality and power. These are all subject to him, and he is set at God's right hand far above them.
SOURCE JOHN GILLS EXPOSITION

GOD'S WORD ON THE NAME OF JESUS

Acts 4:12 - Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
Philippians 2:9-11 - Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: (Read More...)
John 14:13 - And whatsoever ye shall ask in my name, that will I do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son.
John 14:6 - Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me.
1 Corinthians 6:11 - And such were some of you: but ye are washed, but ye are sanctified, but ye are justified in the name of the Lord Jesus, and by the Spirit of our God.
Luke 10:17 - And the seventy returned again with joy, saying, Lord, even the devils are subject unto us through thy name.
Matthew 1:21 - And she shall bring forth a son, and thou shalt call his name JESUS: for he shall save his people from their sins.
Acts 4:30 - By stretching forth thine hand to heal; and that signs and wonders may be done by the name of thy holy child Jesus.
Jeremiah 10:6 - Forasmuch as [there is] none like unto thee, O LORD; thou [art] great, and thy name [is] great in might.
Acts 2:38 - Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.
Revelation 22:13 - I am Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the first and the last.
Acts 3:12-16 - And when Peter saw [it], he answered unto the people, Ye men of Israel, why marvel ye at this? or why look ye so earnestly on us, as though by our own power or holiness we had made this man to walk? (Read More...)
Romans 10:13 - For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.
John 8:58 - Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Before Abraham was, I am.
Mark 16:17 - And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;
Exodus 3:14 - And God said unto Moses, I AM THAT I AM: and he said, Thus shalt thou say unto the children of Israel, I AM hath sent me unto you.
Acts 8:12 - But when they believed Philip preaching the things concerning the kingdom of God, and the name of Jesus Christ, they were baptized, both men and women.

COME AND LAUGH IT OFF

Wednesday 21 September 2016

NO DEATH, NO CONDEMNATION

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES WEDNESDAY, 21ST SEPTEMBER.
NO CONDEMNATION...NO DEATH.
There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit (Romans 8:1).
Nobody will go to hell today or be condemned because of sin, for Jesus was already condemned for our sins; He paid the full penalty for sin. Therefore, the primary reason people will go to hell is unbelief; it’s for not believing and accepting God’s testimony of His Son. It’s for rejecting God’s love which He demonstrated in the sacrifice of His Son, for the propitiation of our sins.
The Bible 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” (John 3:16). To reject His love is to embrace eternal condemnation. When you love the Lord with all your heart, you’re free from any form of condemnation. And that love has been shed abroad in our hearts by the Holy Ghost (Romans 5:5), such that not only are we able to love the Lord, we also walk in, and manifest His love to others.
Furthermore, the one who walks in love has passed from death unto life: “We know that we have passed from death unto life, because we love the brethren. He that loveth not his brother abideth in death” (1 John 3:14). Romans 8:2 says, “For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death.” Eternal life was activated in your spirit when you were born again. Death isn’t at work in you; life is, because you’re a child of God.
The law of the Spirit of life has made you free from the law of sin and death. So, you’re death-free! When God says He’s made you death-free, it means you’re off death’s limits! Whatever kind of death it may be, whether death in business, finances, health, etc.; you’re off their limits, because life is at work in you. Blessed be God!
CONFESSION
I’m crucified with Christ; nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ lives in me; and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me! Christ is my life, and I dwell in Him in the realm of His divine love. Therefore, I’m free from sin, death, and the Law! I’m a partaker of His divine nature!
Further Study:
Romans 6:8-11 Now if we be dead with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him: 9 Knowing that Christ being raised from the dead dieth no more; death hath no more dominion over him. 10 For in that he died, he died unto sin once: but in that he liveth, he liveth unto God. 11 Likewise reckon ye also yourselves to be dead indeed unto sin, but alive unto God through Jesus Christ our Lord.
1 Corinthians 15:55-57 O death, where [is] thy sting? O grave, where [is] thy victory? 56 The sting of death [is] sin; and the strength of sin [is] the law. 57 But thanks [be] to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.
1-Year Bible Reading Plan:
Galatians 5:16-26, Isaiah 6-8
2-Year Bible Reading Plan:
1 Timothy 5:11-18, Jeremiah 39
Read, share and also leave comments on today's devotional. Let's keep spreading until we get into every man's world...God bless you.

Monday 19 September 2016

BE CHRIST-INSIDE MINDED

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Be Christ-inside Minded** Monday 19th September . Pastor Chris
...for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people (2 Corinthians 6H16).
God lives in you. You have to become conscious of this. Youʼre the temple of the living God; Heʼs made His home in you now. He no longer dwells in earthly tabernacles. The day Jesus was crucified was the day God left earthly temples. While Jesus was on the cross, the Bible says there was darkness in the earth for three hours. The rocks began to split; the earth began to quake. The presence of God had been in the Holy of Holies, separated from the Holy Place with a thick curtain. But when Jesus said on the cross, “It is finished,” that thick curtain was cut from the top to the bottom, and the Holy of Holies was opened, and the presence of God departed from that temple.
This symbolizes that the most Holy Place is open to everybody. Before then, only the High Priest could go into that most Holy Place where the presence of God was, and that He did once every year. But through Jesus Christ, and the power of the Holy Spirit, the Church was born. And then, the human body became the living tabernacle of Almighty God. Today, everyone whoʼs born again has become Godʼs dwelling place.
Do you see why you ought never to be discouraged or defeated in life? Itʼs because the greater One lives in you. He lives in you in all His glory, majesty, power, and dominion. No wonder the Word says though your body may be dead because of sin, now that Christ lives in you, He gives it life, because of righteousness (Romans 8H10). In other words, Christ in you is your healing and health. Christ in you is your prosperity and assurance of a life full of glory and excellence. Have this consciousness.
Colossians 1H26-27 says, “...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.” What God wanted before the foundation of the world was for Christ to take up His abode in the quarters of our hearts; and it has happened. Heʼs not far away anymore; you donʼt have to seek or search for Him anywhere else; He lives in you. Become “Christ-inside” minded.
CONFESSION
Iʼm the seed of Abraham and therefore an heir according to the promise. I belong to the wealthiest and most sublime family there is, and I walk in blessings untold. Iʼm empowered to prosper, and positioned to be fruitful and productive, glorifying God with my life, in the Name of Jesus. Amen.
Further Study: || 1 Corinthians 6H17 But he that is joined unto the Lord is one spirit. ||
|| 1 Corinthians 3H16 Know ye not that ye are the temple of God, and [that] the Spirit of God dwelleth in you? ||
|| John 14H17 [Even] the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth him not, neither knoweth him: but ye know him; for he dwelleth with you, and shall be in you. ||
Daily Scripture Reading
1-Year Bible Reading Plan: Galatians 3H26-4H1-20, Isaiah 1-2
2-Year Bible Reading Plan: 1 Timothy 4H9-16, Jeremiah 37
EXTRACT FROM: Rhapsody of Realities Daily Devotional

Saturday 10 September 2016

DISCOVER HOW YOU WERE HEALED BY HIS STRIPES

Isaiah 53:4-5Amplified Bible (AMP)


But [in fact] He has borne our griefs,
And He has carried our sorrows and pains;
Yet we [ignorantly] assumed that He was stricken,
Struck down by God and degraded and humiliated [by Him].

But He was wounded for our transgressions,
He was crushed for our wickedness [our sin, our injustice, our wrongdoing];
The punishment [required] for our well-being fell on Him,
And by His stripes (wounds) we are healed.

Isaiah 53:4-5New Living Translation (NLT)

Yet it was our weaknesses he carried;
    it was our sorrows[a] that weighed him down.
And we thought his troubles were a punishment from God,
    a punishment for his own sins!
But he was pierced for our rebellion,
    crushed for our sins.
He was beaten so we could be whole.
    He was whipped so we could be healed.

MOVE FROM BELIEVING TO FAITH

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES SATURDAY, 10TH SEPTEMBER.
MOVE FROM BELIEVING TO FAITH.
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 Peter 2:24).
Some Christians find themselves having a conflict between what the Word says and their actual experience. For example, they’ve read and believed our opening verse, yet they’ve battled one ailment after the other and now they’re asking, “What am I supposed to do that I’m not doing?”
A dear lady asked me a similar question, drawing attention to 2 Corinthians 8:9 that says Jesus was made poor that we might be made rich. Then she asked, “If this is true, how come so many Christians are still poor?” She wanted to know what could be done to make that scripture real in their lives.
Here’s what you need to know: When you were born again, you were brought into a life of absolute prosperity, absolute health, strength and victory; it’s been done already. Whether or not you’re enjoying it is your responsibility. The Bible says, “...work out your own salvation...” (Philippians 2:12); meaning that you must live the Word of salvation. Act according to the Word. In Christianity, we do the Word; we’re Word practitioners. You must personalise the Word for yourself and act accordingly.
You’re the one to make the Word real in your life. You’re the one to subdue the circumstances around you. You’re the one to subdue the forces that come against you and the symptoms that try to attack you. You’re the one to use the Word to effect changes.
Things won’t change by themselves; they won’t change because you believe. Believing isn’t enough; to effect the change you need in any area of your life, you must go from believing to faith! You must fight the good fight of faith. The fight of faith is when you consciously live according to the Word of God, irrespective of the circumstances around you and what your senses tell you. It’s when you insist on the Word and hold on to it as the only reality.
Confession
I experience the reality of the Word of God as I meditate on, and live in, the Word! I’m making progress, and circumstances are subdued to conform to the reality of God’s Word for my good. The Word of God has the pre-eminence in my life, and it continually produces in me what it talks about, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
Further Study:
Hebrews 10:23;
Hebrews 11:1;
Romans 4:19-20
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Corinthians 10:1-18, Proverbs 27-28
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 thessalonians 3:1-10, Jeremiah 28
Read, share and also leave comments on today's devotional. Let's keep spreading until we get into every man's world...God bless you. www.rhapsodyofrealities.org

Friday 9 September 2016

STUDY ON DIVINE HEALING, FROM ISAIAH 53

In these verses is an account of the sufferings of Christ; also of the design of his sufferings. It was for our sins, and in our stead, that our Lord Jesus suffered. We have all sinned, and have come short of the glory of God. Sinners have their beloved sin, their own evil way, of which they are fond. Our sins deserve all griefs and sorrows, even the most severe. We are saved from the ruin, to which by sin we become liable, by laying our sins on Christ. This atonement was to be made for our sins. And this is the only way of salvation. Our sins were the thorns in Christ's head, the nails in his hands and feet, the spear in his side. He was delivered to death for our offences. By his sufferings he purchased for us the Spirit and grace of God, to mortify our corruptions, which are the distempers of our souls. We may well endure our lighter sufferings, if He has taught us to esteem all things but loss for him, and to love him who has first loved us.. . SOURCE  MATHEW HENRY COMMENTARY

PRAYER FOR DIVINE HEALTH

 Thank you father for sending Jesus to borne my griefs and carry my sorrows. I will never be in grief all the days of my life. Sorrow is far from me in Jesus name. Jesus was afflicted and smitten for my sins, he was wounded for my transgressions, no more afflictions, no more wounds, in my spirit, soul and body in Jesus name.Thank you father, for giving me peace has come through Jesus chastisement, I have peace in every area of my life. Glory, by his stripes I was healed, I live in divine health all the days of my life. Hallelujah!!!!!

CONFESSION FOR DIVINE HEALING

. CONFESSION, Surely he has borne my my griefs, and carried my sorrows, yet I esteemed him stricken, smitten of God, and afflicted. But he was wounded for my transgressions, he was bruised for my iniquities, the chastisement of my peace was upon him, and with his stripes I was healed.

MEDITATION FOR DIVINE HEALING

But the fact is, it was our pains he carried—
    our disfigurements, all the things wrong with us.
We thought he brought it on himself,
    that God was punishing him for his own failures.
But it was our sins that did that to him,
    that ripped and tore and crushed him—our sins!
He took the punishment, and that made us whole.
    Through his bruises we get healed. Isaiah 53 4-5 MSG

MEDITATION FOR DIVINE HEALTH

. .. Surely he hath borne our griefs, and carried our sorrows : yet we did esteem his stricken, smitten of God. But he was wounded for our transgressions, he was bruised for our iniquities: the chastisement of our peace was upon him; and with his stripes we are healed.. Isaiah 53:4-5. 1 Jesus has borne our griefs. Glory, no more grief 2 He carried our sorrows. Now no more sorrows. 3 Jesus was smitten and afflicted on our behalf. That means goodbye to affliction, the price is paid. 4 He was wounded for our transgressions. The devil has lost at last, we are free from the power of sin. 5 He was bruised for our iniquities. No more bruises, we are now God's righteousness in Christ.6 His chastisement brought us peace. Peace on all sides. 7 By his stripes we were healed. And we will continue to be in health every day of our life. 8 Borne,carried,stricken,smitten, afflicted, wounded, bruised, healed, all these words are in past tense, meaning it's done already, it's finished.9 Griefs, sorrows, wounded, chastisement, these are all products of sin, but Jesus took them all and made us free.10 Our griefs, our transgressions,our iniquities,, we can see he did it for us, he did it for many, he did it for any one that believes. . Agoha Obed

MEDITATION FOR DIVINE HEALTH

Isaiah 53:4-5New International Version (NIV)

Surely he took up our pain
    and bore our suffering,
yet we considered him punished by God,
    stricken by him, and afflicted.
But he was pierced for our transgressions,
    he was crushed for our iniquities;
the punishment that brought us peace was on him,
    and by his wounds we are healed.

Thursday 8 September 2016

KNOW THAT YOU ARE ACCEPTED IN THE BELOVED

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Accepted In The Beloved** Thursday 8th September . Pastor Chris
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: Having predestinated us unto the adoption of children by Jesus Christ to himself, according to the good pleasure of his will, To the praise of the glory of his grace, wherein he hath made us accepted in the beloved (Ephesians 1:4-6).
God chose us before the foundation of the world to be holy and without blame before Him in love, and predestined us to be accepted in His presence. It’s part of what His righteousness in our spirits has produced for us; we can boldly stand in the presence of God without guilt, inferiority or condemnation.
No matter where you’ve been, what you’ve done, how deep in the thraldom or valley of sin you’ve been, you’re accepted in Christ Jesus. You don’t have to run from God, because of your sins. Imagine His gracious invitation in Isaiah 1:18; He said, “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.” He’s not mad at you. Submit to His righteousness. Embrace His love. Trust Him with your life, and He’ll make your life glorious.
Now that you’re born again, you’re in Christ; He’s already accepted you; you’re in Him. You dwell in His presence. In His presence, you’re at liberty; you don’t have to be afraid; you’re free to express yourself and be yourself. You’re at liberty to function for Him and live for Him.
Some people are still living their lives in hope that God will accept them based on their good works. But that’s not going to work! The Bible says, “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9). Furthermore, Galatians 2:16 says, “...by the works of the law shall no flesh be justified”; that means accepted and declared righteous before God!
You don’t have to feel insecure or uncertain about your standing with God. Be bold, confident, assured and glad that you belong to Him; that He brought you into oneness with Himself. Hallelujah!
Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for choosing me before the foundation of the world that I should be holy, blameless and accepted in your presence, according to the good pleasure of your will. I function in the consciousness and boldness that I’m justified and have peace with you, enjoying an indissoluble oneness with you, to the praise and glory of your grace, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
further study:
1 John 5:14-15; Psalm 4:3-5; Colossians 4:2
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Corinthians 7:2-16 Proverbs 22-23
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 thessalonians
2:1-10 Jeremiah 26

Monday 5 September 2016

LIVE FOR HIS GLORY

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Live for His Glory** Monday 5th September . Pastor Chris
And that he died for all, that they which live should not henceforth live unto themselves, but unto him which died for them, and rose again(2 Corinthians 5:15).
If you truly believe that Jesus died to save you, then you must continually live for His glory and lead others to salvation. We’re in the last days, and the time is short. There’s no room for complacency; you must become vocal with the Gospel now more than ever. Yes, there may be peculiar times, occasions, and places where we might need to be tactful in our preaching of the Gospel; nonetheless, we should never lose our confidence in Christ and the boldness to publicly proclaim His Lordship.
We’re His co-labourers and partners, working together with Him to reach the lost and bring salvation in Christ to everyman. This is our primary responsibility as Christians. The Apostles lived for this cause. Many have suffered severe persecutions and even lost their lives for preaching the Gospel. It isnt, and shouldn’t, be different in our day. Stick your neck out for the Gospel. Don’t be afraid or intimidated to stand up and speak up for what you believe.
In your workplace, school, bussiness environment, estate, neighbourhood, be known as an ambassador of Christ; a burning and a shining light. Even when you’re reviled or disdained for preaching the Gospel, keep at it, because your adversaries don’t count; they’re not a factor. Nothing, and no one, can hurt or harm you, because Christ is your life; He’s your defence. He sent you, and will therefore see to it that you triumph gloriously always—over and above every adversity.
Devote your life to reaching others with the Gospel. Keep influencing and impacting your world positively through the power of God that works in you. Keep beautifying the lives of those around you with the Word and power of the Holy Spirit. That’s how to live for the Lord and have His glory revealed in and through you.
Prayer
Dear Father, I thank you for giving me the opportunity and ability to influence those in my world with the Gospel. Everything I am and everything I have is for the expansion of your Kingdom. I thank you for your blessings and extraordinary provisions in my life, and for the strength, boldness and courage you’ve granted me to proclaim the Gospel with power, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.
further study:
Matthew 28:19-20; Acts 18:9-11; 2 timothy 4:5
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Corinthians 3:7-4:1-18 Proverbs 16-17
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 thessalonians 5:1-11 Jeremiah 23

Saturday 3 September 2016

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

WHY YOU MUST GET YOUR FAITH ON COURSE

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **set Your faith On Course** Saturday 3rd September . Pastor Chris
While we look not at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen: for the things which are seen are temporal; but the things which are not seen are eternal (2 Corinthians 4:18).
God loves you and cares about you, regardless of the challenges and difficulties you may be facing right now. He always wants to see you win and live happy every day. Jesus said, “...In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). Never allow anything get you frustrated; train your faith. Tell yourself, “Against hope, I believe in hope that all things are working together for my good” (Romans 8:28).
The triumphant life is yours in Christ Jesus; refuse to settle for less. Things might not exactly be going as you’ve expected, but maintain your confession of the Word. Don’t accept defeat and don’t give in to sickness or anything that hurts. Don’t say, “I’ve been infected,” just because you noticed some symptoms in your body. Faith doesn’t consider the symptoms or circumstances. Faith considers the Word.
Symptoms or the doctor’s diagnosis shouldn’t change your confession. Keep the Word in your mouth. It doesn’t matter how you feel or the figures in your bank statement; it doesn’t change who you are. Refuse to be rated by your circumstances. The things you see with your physical eyes are subject to change. Therefore, set your faith on course. Your faith is your currency; and with it, nothing shall be impossible to you.
Every adversity you face is your opportunity to experience and manifest the glory of God: “For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2 Corinthians 4:17). No matter what you go through in life, it’ll turn out for your good, as long as you turn your eyes away from the conditions or circumstances, to the Word. Hebrews 12:2 says, “Looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith....”
He perfects your faith; therefore, never give up. Don’t say, “The trouble was too much, and so I gave up”; no, take on the shield of faith. With your faith, you can quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. Your faith is a shield; use it.
Confession
Blessed be God, who gives me the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ, and has made me more than a conqueror. I live triumphantly today, and always, fulfilling God’s dream and bringing glory to His Name. Hallelujah!
further study:
James 2:17-22; romans 4:17-21
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
2 Corinthians 1-2:1-4 Proverbs 12-13
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 thessalonians
4:1-8 Jeremiah 21

ARE YOU READY FOR THIS LIFE CHANGING EVENT?

Friday 2 September 2016

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

BENEFITS OF THINKING DIFFERENTLY

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES **Think Differently** Friday 2nd September . Pastor Chris
Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompense of reward (Hebrews 10:35).
It’s the ninth month of the year 2016—our “Year of Spreading.” Perhaps, you might have been troubled and saying in your heart, “Lord, I still have goals and things I want to do. I want to receive more money for this, and for that; now the year is almost coming to an end.” Don’t think that way with God. Stay in eternity. Live in eternity. Think differently. Don’t “push” God like natural men do. Live with Him in His realm of life. Don’t get under the pressure.
When you get under pressure because of what you want to accomplish within a certain time, you become a slave to time. Don’t let that happen to you. Time should be a slave to you. Psalm 37:4-5 says, “Delight thyself also in the LORD; and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass.”
Nothing is too difficult for, or impossible with, the Lord; He’s the great God. He said in Jeremiah 32:27, “Behold, I am the Lord, the God of all flesh: is there any thing too hard for me?” His greatness is beyond description. His power is limitless. Trust Him, and trust His ability. He can do for you in a second, what naturally should have taken you ten years to achieve. Within the last part of this year, you can receive anything that you desire of Him. Jesus said in John 16:24, “...ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.”
He wants your joy to be full; therefore, keep your faith active; ask and receive. Stand firm; stay strong. Believe and keep affirming the Word even in the face of staggering oppositions. Never give up, for faith always wins.
Confession
I refuse to be under the pressure, for the Lord is my salvation, and upon Him, I’ve cast all my cares, living the transcendent life, and enjoying peace with prosperity. My path is as the shining light that shines brighter and brighter unto the perfect day. The Lord my God is my sufficiency, my refuge, my glory and my strength; He’s my all. Hallelujah!
further study:
Matthew 6:31-32; Philippians 4:6-7; John 14:27
1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 Corinthians 16:1-24 Proverbs 10-11
2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN
1 thessalonians 3:1-13 Jeremiah 19-20