Prosperity With Purpose

Prosperity With Purpose

Focus Word : Prosperity With Purpose
Focus Verse - Deuteronomy 8:18 - But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant.

1. Prosperity begins with God as the Source.

It is the Lord, your God, who gives you the ability to produce wealth. True prosperity does not begin with effort; it begins with God-given ability.
What do you have that you did not receive? (1 Corinthians 4:7)
James 1:17 - Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.
We often notice that although two people work in the same stream, one often flourishes more than the other - that ability in that person is not accidental, it is God-given capacity.

2. Prosperity is empowerment, not just possession.

God gives the ability to produce wealth, not just wealth itself. The ability - means the ideas, the skills, the opportunities, the wisdom to produce wealth.
Riches and honor are with wisdom. (Proverbs 8:18)
Wisdom brings success. (Ecclesiastes 10:10)
God filled Bezalel with skill and ability. (Exodus 31:3)
"Give a man a fish and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish and you feed him for a lifetime” is a popular proverb advocating for empowerment and education over temporary charity.
God blesses us with capacity, not just currency.

3. Prosperity is connected to covenant purpose.

Prosperity in the Bible is never just for personal comfort. It is connected to God’s purpose - it is for Kingdom expansion, it is to bless others.
I will bless you, and you will be a blessing.(Genesis 12:2)
God provides so you can abound in every good work (2 Corinthians 9:8)
Seek first the Kingdom (Matthew 6:33)

4. Prosperity requires remembering God.

The Word warns against forgetting God after becoming prosperous.
Deuteronomy 8:14 - Do not become proud at that time and forget the LORD your God, who rescued you from slavery in the land of Egypt.
Proverbs 3:9 - Honor the LORD with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops;
1 Timothy 6:17 - Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.
Prosperity without God leads to emptiness.
Proverbs 10:22 - The blessing of the LORD brings wealth, without painful toil for it.

Declaration - God prospers the work of my hands to advance His Kingdom and help others.

FAMILY BLESSING

FOCUS VERSE: Numbers 6: 24 and 25 - The Lord bless you and keep you; the Lord make His face shine upon you and be gracious to you.  

DECLARATION: My family is under God’s protection.  Love and peace fill our homes today.  

Family blessing begins with God’s covering:  God's blessing is not just provision, it is protection and preservation.
 
Psalm 127: Unless the Lord stands watch over the city, the watchmen stand in vain.  
Proverbs 18: 10 - The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run to it and are saved.  
2 Thessalonians 3: 3 - The Lord is faithful and He will strengthen and protect you.

There is great protection in the Name of the Lord; a whole family can find protection in this.  A blessed family is a ‘covered’ family. The main switch in a house connects all the electrical wiring in such a way as to light up the whole house; similarly, contact to the Almighty God connects the whole family to His protection.  Is your ‘main switch’ on? Meaning, is your connection with God strong.

Family blessings flow through God’s favour:  God’s face shining upon you shows His favour and approval.  God’s favour brings open doors, divine help and unexpected opportunities.  

Psalm 5: 12 - The Lord surrounds the righteous as with a shield.
Genesis 39: 21 - God’s favour was upon Joseph in his difficult situations.
Luke 2: 52 - Jesus grew in favour with God and man.  

Family blessing is sustained by God’s grace:  Grace is God giving us what we can never earn.  John chapter 1 speaks of the grace that has come upon us through Christ Jesus.  Grace sustains relationships, heals weaknesses and restores brokenness.  

2 Corinthians 2: 12 - My grace is sufficient for you.
Hebrews 4: 16 - Let us approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.  

Relationships survive not because of perfection, but because of grace.  Members of a family may be in conflict with each other, but when grace enters their hearts, they choose to forgive and love again.  

Blessings on families should be spoken and released:  It is not sufficient that we think of blessings in our heart or mind, we need to verbalise it - speak it out.  In the Old Testament, we read of the priests speaking out blessings over the people.  This was commanded by God.  Blessings travel through a vehicle called ‘word’.  Words carry spiritual weight in a family.  Parents should speak out blessings over their children; children should be respectful to their parents and honour them with their words.
 
Proverbs 18: 21 - Life and death are in the tongue; those who love it will eat its fruit.

Before passing away from this earth, Jacob called all his twelve children and spoke words of blessings over each one of them.  When we go through the 49th chapter of Genesis, we read how Jacob took time to speak blessings over each one of them according to the direction of God.  So, it is when we speak that blessings are carried over and manifested in the lives of others.  

Ephesians 4: 29 - Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.  

Our words define the destiny of our children to a great extent.   We should speak about not what we see in our children today, but what we intend them to be in the future - what we want them to turn out to be.  

God bless you all!

Give & Multiply

The focus word for today is ‘Generosity’.


The focus verse for today is Proverbs 11:25 says, ‘A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.’


The declaration for today is ‘I give freely and joyfully today. As I bless others, God refreshes and multiples me’.


Generosity Reflects God’s Nature


God is the ultimate giver. We can never underscore God in giving, because everything we have flows from his generosity, because ultimately he is the source.


John 3:16 says, ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.’


If you look closely at this verse, the principle of generosity is shown in all its splendour. God gave up his only Son and in return he saved all of us and considers us his children.


James 1:17 says, ‘Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.’


Psalm 145:16 says, ‘You open your hand and satisfy the desires of every living thing.’


We used to run a small orphanage for girls many years ago. We often saw that people used to sponsor the meals for these girls on special occasions. Families used to bring their children to the orphanage and celebrate with the kids there. Often the parents feel happy and grateful after this. Now imagine, our creator provides all that is needed for everyone in this world. Think about the generosity of our Lord. When we give, we reflect the nature of our God the Father. Children take after the traits of their parents and when we showcase a generous spirit, we reflect the nature of our God the Father.


Generosity Opens the Door to Blessing


Generosity positions ourselves in God’s flow. God is the source of all blessings and when we are generous, we place ourselves in this flow of blessings from God. The prosperity that comes from this is not only financial, but includes peace, favour and increase.


Luke 6:38 says, ‘Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.’


2 Corinthians 9:6 says, ‘Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.’


The heavenly principle is that - the more you sow, the more you will reap.


Malachi 3:10 says, ‘ Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.’


When God opens the storehouses of heaven, it’s not a tiny bird window, but a dam that overflows and gushes out with blessings after blessings. A body of water that keeps on flowing will contain fresh water, but that which holds stagnant water will become stale in time. When God’s resources flow through us, it enriches us and blessings keep on flowing. Giving keeps life flowing.


Generosity Refreshes Others And Yourself


The one who refreshes others will also be refreshed. When we give to others, the same joy and happiness they enjoy will also be transferred to us and we also become recipients of those same emotions. The one who refreshes others will also be refreshed. This is the divine cycle of blessing.


In Acts 20, we see that Paul is living in Ephesus and during this time he teaches all the elders and people around him the revelations from God. During this time he also worked to earn a living so that he does not burden others around him.


Acts 20:35 says, ‘In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’ ”


This is a profound statement where Paul is saying it's more blessed to give than to receive.


Isaiah 58:10-11 says, ‘and if you spend yourselves in behalf of the hungry and satisfy the needs of the oppressed, then your light will rise in the darkness, and your night will become like the noonday. 11 The Lord will guide you always; he will satisfy your needs in a sun-scorched land and will strengthen your frame. You will be like a well-watered garden, like a spring whose waters never fail.’


The more you give, the brighter your life becomes.


Philippians 4:19 says, ‘And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.’


The more you give others, the more our Father in heaven will give you. You will never run dry. It’s important to understand that this principle is not merely about giving and receiving. It’s also about walking in the righteous path and building a strong and personal relationship with God.


Generosity Builds Eternal Impact


What you do on earth has an eternal impact. What you give on earth has an everlasting effect. Generosity connects earthly resources to eternal purpose. What we give in God’s kingdom produces lasting fruits.


Matthew 6:20 says, ‘But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.’


2 Corinthians 9:11 says, ‘You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.’


Proverbs 19:17 says, ‘Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.’


Kindness to the poor is equivalent to lending to the Lord and he is never changing. If we give to others, God will bless our barns.

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Healing Blessing

Focus verse: Psalm 107:20 “He sent out his word and healed them; he rescued them from the grave”
Declaration: God’s healing Word works in my body today; wholeness and strength flow through me.
John 6:63 “The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you—they are full of the Spirit and life.”
The Word of God has love and is full of the Spirit. Each verse produces a different thing.
God’s Word has healing power
God’s Word isn’t merely information; it carries divine life and power. When God speaks, healing and restoration are released.
Psalm 103:2,3 Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits— 3 who forgives all your sins and heals all your diseases,
The Word says ALL your sins are forgiven and ALL your diseases are healed.
Isaiah 55:11 “So is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty,but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it.”
Matthew 8:8 “The centurion replied, “Lord, I do not deserve to have you come under my roof. But just say the word, and my servant will be healed.”
Here, the diseased person was not even there at the location. But Jesus’ Word can travel with power and heal.
Medicines heal because they carry properties that can heal the body. God’s word carries spiritual properties and divine power that can restore life and health.

2.Healing flows from God’s compassion.

In the Bible, God’s healing is always closely connected to his compassion for people. He moves with compassion when He sees suffering. When God sees you, he is compassionate towards you.
Exodus 15:26 “He said, “If you listen carefully to the LORD your God and do what is right in his eyes, if you pay attention to his commands and keep all his decrees, I will not bring on you any of the diseases I brought on the Egyptians, for I am the LORD, who heals you”
James 5:15 “And the prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well; the Lord will raise them up. If they have sinned, they will be forgiven.”
Hearing reflects God’s loving nature. When you interact with caring and gentle doctors, you already feel better. But with doctors that don’t feel genuine, you don’t feel hopeful. God’s love is genuine and caring.

3.Healing restores what was broken.

Healing is part of God’s plan of restoration. It brings life where there was weakness, and devastation. Sickness can affect a person’s mental health.
Jeremiah 30:17 “But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds,' declares the LORD, 'because you are called an outcast, Zion for whom no one cares.”
Isaiah 53:5 “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.”
Mark 5:34 “He said to her, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering.”
When we are restored, it’s not just our health, but our spirit and soul as well.

4.Healing brings gratitude and praise.

In Acts 3, when Peter and the disciples healed a beggar, he began jumping and dancing, praising God in the temple courts. This is the spontaneous response to healing.
Psalm 107:21“Let them give thanks to the LORD for his unfailing love and his wonderful deeds for mankind.”
Psalm 30:2 “Lord my God, I called to you for help, and you healed me.”
Luke 17:15-18 “15 One of them, when he saw he was healed, came back, praising God in a loud voice. 16 He threw himself at Jesus’ feet and thanked him—and he was a Samaritan. 17 Jesus asked, “Were not all ten cleansed? Where are the other nine? 18 Has no one returned to give praise to God except this foreigner?”
Your heading testimony can bring healing to others. Our God is not a magician, He’s a miracle worker, who still works miracles today.
Hebrews 13:8 “Jesus Christ is the same yesterday and today and forever.”

Calm Your Mind! (Peace)

Title: Calm Your Mind! (Peace)
Today’s focus word is ‘Peace’.
The one which is easily in short supply is peace. I often get prayer requests for peace.
Isa 26.3 is our focus verse for today and it says, “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.”
Declaration: The peace of God guards my heart and mind today; I live in supernatural calm and confidence.
Points for Peace include:

1.     Perfect peace comes from trust in God

A very powerful formula. When we trust in God, our heart becomes peaceful. For illustration purposes, when in a difficult situation and someone says, ‘God will take care of it,’ you would feel relieved, provided you believe. Isaiah teaches that peace is connected to trust in God. When the heart rests in God’s faithfulness, anxiety loses its power, its grip. The God who called you is faithful! Declare it.
Peace does not come from perfect circumstances. It doesn’t come once your family relations; finances are set right. My peace comes from placing my trust in God!
God is seated on His throne; my mind be at peace.
He has taken up my cause – my mind be at peace.
No matter how turbulent my situation is – my mind be at peace.
Ps 56. 3 - 4 says, “When I am afraid, I put my trust in you …..”
Pro 3. 5 - 6 says, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart ….”
Jn 14.27 says, “Peace I leave with your; my peace I give you ….”
Peace is unique in that it can be given. We can become peace givers and peace makers. Before leaving this world, Jesus gave His peace to his disciples - My peace, my tranquility, I leave it with you.
Trust anchors the heart in God’s stability. He does not have mood swings. A sleeping babe wakes up crying but can be pacified. Kid’s moods change rapidly. They cry, laugh etc. As they mature, they become more stable. But the nature of God is unchanging – the immutability of God.

2.     Peace requires a steadfast mind

A person who has mental stability, depends on the Lord and God will care for him wholeheartedly. We need to develop mental stability; a steadfast mind. We need to focus our minds on Jesus if we are to have peace. If we keep brooding about our troubles, we cannot have peace.
Col 3.2 says, “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
Phil 4.8 reminds us to think about what is true, noble, admirable. The verse states 8 thoughts to pursue.
Rm 8.6 says, “…… the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.” A steady mind strengthens inner peace.

3.     Peace guards the heart

God’s peace protects the inner life from fear, stress, turmoil etc. Peace acts as a guard that preserves emotional and spiritual stability.
Phil 4.7 says, “And the peace of God ……… will guard your hearts and your minds….”
Ps 29.11 says, “…. the Lord blesses His people with peace.”
Declare – I receive Godly peace. The Lord left His peace for me and I activate it now.
Jn16.33 says, “……. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” Some translations talk of tribulation.
Don’t consider it a simple statement. Our God has won victory over everything in this world. Having Godly peace does not mean that you no longer have any challenges or problems. God’s peace does not remove every challenge but strengthens us to face them. Just because we have Godly peace does not mean that we won’t have any challenges or problems; rather it strengthens us to face them. An illustration would be a city wall that protects the city from all attacks. Similarly, God’s peace acts like a wall around our hearts protecting it from overwhelming pressures. Heart attacks, cardiac arrests or heart failures originate from stress, tensions, worry.

4.     Peace becomes a witness to others

Our inner peace becomes a testimony to others or in other words, a peaceful life becomes a testimony to those around us. When believers remain calm and trusting during difficult situations many non-believers ask believers how they are able to remain cheerful or sleep soundly amidst their problems.
The righteous face many troubles. But God delivers them from it all. That’s why there is the sound of victory and celebration in the tent of the righteous. Our inner peace testifies the presence of the Lord in our lives to others. That’s why we don’t panic.
Rm 12.18 says, “……. As far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
Heb 12. 14 reminds us to make every effort to live in peace with all people.
Mt. 5.9 says, “Blessed are the peace makers…… “means peace needs to be created by peace makers. It does not happen on its own. Don’t be a peace breaker.
Peace spreads through relationships and communities. Peace can be given or imparted to others around. That’s why Jesus instructed his disciples to declare – “Peace be with you!” wherever they went. ‘The peace that I have I share it with you; the peace that the Lord himself gave me.’
There is a saying that goes, ‘A calm lake reflects the sky clearly.’ Similarly, a peaceful heart reflects the presence of God to others.
What is your level of peace? Are you able to sleep at night?
Let’s pray!

Open Heaven

Focus Word : Open Heaven

Focus Verse -  Malachi 3:10 - Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the LORD Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.

1. An open heaven represents God's favor and activity.

The phrase ‘open heaven’ describes a season when God’s presence, guidance, blessing, etc flow freely. A season of divine intervention and revelation. Similarly, the Bible delineates two major seasons of closed heaven - when the people of Israel were slaves in Egypt and the silent period after the book of Malachi and before the gospel of Matthew - both were for a time period of 400 years. We can see two liberation movements in the Bible - one under the leadership of Moses in the Old Testament and the second under the leadership of Jesus in the New Testament.

Open Heaven Moments
When Jesus was baptised, Heaven was opened and the Spirit descended. Matthew 3:16
The heavens were opened and Ezekiel saw visions of God. Ezekiel 1:1
You will see heaven open and the angels of God ascending and descending. John 1:51
An open heaven signifies that God is actively working among His people.

2. Faithful obedience invites God’s blessing

In Malachi, God connects open heaven with faithful obedience. The people were encouraged to honour God with their offerings and trust His provision.
Proverbs 3:9,10 - Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.
Luke 6:38 - Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you."
2 Corinthians 9:8 - And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.
Obedience creates space for God's blessings to flow. Faithful obedience opens pathways for divine provision.

3. Open heaven brings overflowing provision.

God promises blessings, so abundant that there will not be enough room to contain them.
My cup overflows. Psalm 23:5
God is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine. Ephesians 3:20
God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory. Philippians 4:19
God's generosity often exceeds human expectations.

4. Open heaven enables Kingdom impact.

God blesses His children in order to fulfill His mission on Earth - for the Kingdom expansion and to help others
I will bless you and you will be a blessing Genesis 12:2
Let your light shine before others Matthew 5:16
You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you Acts 1:8
God desires that we become a channel of divine blessing in this world.

Declaration - Heaven is open over me today. Abundance flows freely into every area of my life

COMPLETION

FOCUS VERSE: Haggai 2: 9 - The glory of this great house will be greater than the glory of the former house.

DECLARATION: God completes what He began in me; the work of my hands will end in glory and increase.

God encourages us to finish what He started:  The people of Israel had begun rebuilding the Temple, but they became discouraged because there was a lot of opposition from the authorities and people.  It is at this point that the prophet Haggai encourages the Israelite children to continue the work until completion.  God pays much attention to whatever He has purposed us to do and encourages throughout the project.  God values not only the beginning but also the faithful completion.  It is the nature of God to bring to completion - what He began in Genesis, He brought to completion in the Book of Revelation.  This is why He is called the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End.

Zechariah 4: 9 - The hands of Zerubbabel have laid the foundation of this temple; his hands will also complete it.  

The spirit of a finisher - you will bring to completion whatever you begin.  A grand finale is a must in every project.  Faithfulness means finishing whatever God has entrusted to us.  Completion brings purpose into full expression.  

Philippians 1: 6 - The One who began a good work in you will bring it to completion.  
Ecclesiastes. 7: 8 - The end of a matter is better than its beginning.  

Completion often requires perseverance:  When we begin a project sometimes we tend to lag behind or even lose interest in it; but only continued persistence and perseverance will see through to its completion.  The building of the temple at Jerusalem faced delay, opposition and discouragement and many other negative factors.  Many God-given assignments pass through seasons of challenge before reaching completion.
 
Galatians 6: 9 - At the proper time you will reap a harvest, if you do not give up.
Hebrews 12: 1 - Run with perseverance the race marked out for you.

There may be many temptations and tribulations taking your concentration away from your goal.  But here, the apostle Paul exhorts us to run with perseverance on the track that is specifically marked out for us.  

James 5: 11 - As you know, we count as blessed those who have persevered.  You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about.  

Perseverance turns unfinished efforts into lasting accomplishments.  The victory belongs to those who cross the finishing line.  Completion requires endurance.  

God’s later work can be greater than the former:  Sometimes what may begin as small will have a great ending - this is how God works.  God promised the Israelites that the glory of the present temple would surpass that of the former one.
 
Isaiah 43: 19 - See I am going to do a new thing.
Job 8: 7 -  Your beginnings will seem humble, so prosperous will your future be.  
Joel 2: 25 - I will restore the years the locusts have eaten.

God always moves from glory to greater glory.  Take the case of a sunrise.  You see a small glow of light and as the sun rises over the sky, the light becomes brighter and brighter.  At noon, the sun is right over us and the light is strong and bright.  Similarly, God’s plans unfold progressively.  

Completion reveals God’s faithfulness:  Every fulfilled promise and finished assignment becomes a testimony to His reliability.  God is dependable and trustworthy; He is accountable, we can depend on Him.
 
Joshua 21: 45 - Not one of all the Lord’s good promises to Israel failed; every one was fulfilled.  
1 Kings 8: 56 - Not one word has failed of all the good promises He gave through His servant Moses.
2 Timothy 4: 7 - I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.  

Completion is the moment when faith becomes testimony: When God finishes His work, the whole design becomes clear.  

God bless you all!

Speak & Win Today

The focus word for today is FAITH DECLARATIONS.

Focus verse for today is 2 Corinthians 4:13 says, ‘It is written: “I believed; therefore I have spoken.” Since we have that same spirit of faith, we also believe and therefore speak’

My declaration for today is - My declarations shape my destiny. I speak life, faith and victory into all I build.

Faith Speaks What It Believes

Faith speaks whatever you believe in your heart and your mind. Paul connects belief and speech in 2 Corinthians 4:13. While faith is in your heart, your speech is on the tongue. There is a huge connection between your faith and your tongue. Because you believed, you spoke. Faith can never keep quiet. It expresses itself through words that align with God’s truth. When the heart is filled with faith, the mouth begins to speak in agreement with God.

Romans 10:10 says, ‘For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.’

Anyone on Earth who speaks the Word of God and confesses in his name will be glorified and their actions recorded in heaven.

Mark 11:23 says, ‘Truly I tell you, if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them.’

Psalm 116:10 says, ‘I trusted in the Lord when I said, “I am greatly afflicted”;

Faith declarations flow from inner convictions. When I was a child, we used to cross the paddy fields on a coconut tree that had been cut and laid across like a bridge. We were never afraid of falling down and would walk over to either side with ease. Sometimes, women clad in sarees attempted to cross this bridge. There was always fear, a sense of uncertainty when they crossed over. A few, instead would cross over through the watery puddle that lies in the divide between the two sides. They do so because they don’t trust the bridge. A person who truly trusts the bridge will walk across it. Faith expresses itself openly through actions and speech. If you say you have faith, but do not use your words to express it. Then do you really have faith?

Faith Declarations Align Our Words With God’s Promises

Faith declaration is not empty optimism. It is in fact, agreement with what God has said. Believers speak God’s promises over their life, situations and into their future.

Joshua 1:8 says, ‘Keep this Book of the Law always on your lips; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful.’

I would ask each of you to start reaching the Bible aloud; what you hear, your heart listens and believes and what you believe, you say out loud through your words. As you repeat this, the Word of God becomes part of your life and this could help you to live a life in alignment with God’s promises.

Hebrews 10:23 says, ‘Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful.’

Psalms 19:14 says, ‘May these words of my mouth and this meditation of my heart be pleasing in your sight, Lord, my Rock and my Redeemer.’

Speaking God’s words strengthens faith and shapes our perspective. For instance, captains of ships use compasses when they are set out to sea. The compass is their guiding light that takes them to their destination. In the same way, God’s promises guide the way we speak.

Faith Declarations Guard The Heart Against Fear

We all have a negative nature in us. Often negative speech and negative thoughts come from us. This negative speech reflects fear and discouragement in us. However, faith declarations by one person can change the perspective of another in a positive way.

Proverbs 18:21 says, ‘The tongue has the power of life and death, and those who love it will eat its fruit.

Isaiah 41:10 says, ‘So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

When fear grips you, if you say these verses out loud or repeatedly tell yourself that ‘God is with you, do not fear’ then soon, you start believing these words and these words fight the negative thoughts in your mind.

2 Timothy 1:7 says, ‘For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline.’

If your words are wielded in God’s promises, then your inner man is strengthened. Faith filled words stabilize your heart during difficult seasons.

Faith Declarations Strengthens Others

 Faith declarations are not only personal, but they strengthen and build up people around you. Once I travelled to a country to preach the Word to a congregation. The country that I travelled to, was slightly conservative and not always open to the gospel being preached openly. Just as I was about to take the pulpit to present the Word, few police officers came into the venue. As soon as they came in, the organisers of the event removed me from the stage and locked me in the bathroom. Later they moved me from the bathroom to another room within the venue space. Much later, the main organiser of the event took the mic and addressed everyone. He said that the Word of God should be preached today and, if there were any issues, he would go to jail instead. This gave me and the audience a lot of confidence. The atmosphere of the place changed completely; the Holy Spirit came upon each and every one of them, miracles started, healings took place. It was one person's faith declaration that changed the whole atmosphere.

Hebrews 3:13 says, ‘But encourage one another daily, as long as it is called “Today,” so that none of you may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness.’

1 Thessalonians 5:13 says, ‘Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other.’

Ephesians 4:29 says, ‘Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.’

Faith filled speech spreads confidence in God’s goodness.

Peace and Rest

Focus Word: Peace and Rest

Focus Verse: Matthew 11:28 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.”

Declaration: I enter the rest of Christ today; my soul is calm and my heart is secure in Him.
True rest is found in a person; that is Jesus. Jesus didn’t say follow a method, He said to go to Him!

1.Rest doesn’t mean the absence of work.

It isn't physical rest. It is not the removal of responsibility.Peace is the presence of Christ. When we are in God’s presence we experience true rest. God is not talking about the physical burden of work. He is talking about the heaviness/ the burdens of life. Peace is the removal of anxiety. It is peace in the midst of many responsibilities. It is an internal peace knowing that God is your caretaker and we can rest in Him.
John 14:27 “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.”
Isaiah 26:3 “You will keep in perfect peace those whose minds are steadfast, because they trust in you.

Psalm 62:1 “Truly my soul finds rest in God; my salvation comes from him.”
A baby finds rest and peace in the presence of their mother. In the same way, no matter what problems we go through, if we truly believe that God is with us and for us, we will experience that peace.
God's presence produces peace.

2.Rest requires surrender
Weariness often comes from caring what we were never meant to carry. This is why Jesus tells us to give Him the burdens we are carrying. When we carry what God was meant to carry for us, we lose peace.
It is like carrying a bag on our heads when travelling, instead of placing it where it is meant to be stored. We should trust God with our burdens and hand it to Him like he has told us to.

Jesus invites the burden to exchange the heaviness with his yoke.
Matthew 11:29 “Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy”
1 Peter 5:7 “Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.”
Psalm 55:22 “Cast your cares on the LORD and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken.”
We should realise that Jesus has taken over our wheel and we can rest and relax- He will see us through with no accidents!

3.Peace guards the heart and mind.

Philippians 4:6-7 6 “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.7 And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”
God’s peace is not temporary, it is spiritual stability.
Colossians 3:15 “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
If you can let God’s peace rule (umpire) you and guide you, you can rest.
Peace acts like a guard standing at the door of your thoughts. We rest when we have a security guard and security system around our home- in the same way, God’s peace protects us and we can rest.

4.Rest produces strength and clarity.

When we learn to trust in God and rest in Him, it gives us strength and clarity. Trusting in God is not a weakness, it is a renewal/ rejuvenation. Good modelled rest in creation on the seventh day- not out of tiredness, but from completion.
Jesus did everything on the cross for us- It is finished! What’s next is just to rest in His finished work.
Exodus 33:14 “My Presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
Hebrews 4:9-10 There remains, then, a Sabbath-rest for the people of God; for anyone who enters God's rest also rests from their works, just as God did from his.
Psalm 23:2 “He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,”

5.Rest restores perspective and renews strength.

In a bow and arrow, you can keep stretching the bow again even after you let it go and let it rest. We need to rest in God’s peace and lean on Him and trust in Him. We need to enter His rest and receive His peace.

The peace God gives us is not of this world, it is not temporary, but it gives us true rest which is deep and secure.

Excellence

Focus Word: Excellence
Focus Verse: Philippians 4:8 “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
Declaration: Excellence marks everything I build; I serve the Lord with my best effort and attitude.
Only if our thoughts change can our life change. For example if a person joins a gym, their body may change but their life won’t. That changes only when your mind changes.
Repentance isn’t just a momentary confession. It is a constant change of mind.
Romans 12:1,2 “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. 2 Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Excellence begins in the mind
Paul begins with what we think about. Only when we are aware of what we think do we understand where our life is going. Excellence doesn’t start with actions. It start with the quality of our thoughts.
Our mind is a thought factory. Thoughts can be negative, sad, angry, or even lustful. But Paul tells us to focus on the thoughts that are true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable.
When your thoughts are filled with excellence and purity, your life also turns towards that direction.
Proverbs 23:7 For as he thinks in his heart, so is he. “Eat and drink!” he says to you, But his heart is not with you.
2 Corinthians 10:5 “We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ.”
The mind is the workshop where excellence is first formed. Right thinking produces excellent outcomes.

2. Excellence focuses on what is noble and pure.

Paul lists qualities that deliver the soul: true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable. Excellence grows where our attention is directed towards what is good and noble.
What do you desire to see? Begin to build your thoughts there.
Colossians 3:1,2 “Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. 2 Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
Psalm 119:9 “How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word.” Live according to God’s word.
Parents work hard to give a good life to their kids, but more than any material thing, the best thing a parent can do for their kids is to give them the Word of God. That will direct their life forever. Not raising kids in the Word of God is the largest failure a parent can have.
Psalm 101:3 I will not look with approval on anything that is vile. I hate what faithless people do; I will have no part in it.
The quality of what fills our life directs our life. This is why God told Joshua to keep meditating on God’s Word. What we allow into our minds influences our character.

3. Excellence is our habit of daily practice.

Not once in a while, but daily. This should be our policy. To live each small decision in the best way.
Colossians 3:23 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters,”
1 Corinthians 10:31 So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God.
Some things aren’t explicitly said to be wrong or right in the Bible. So then what we do is ask ourselves if that act glorifies God or not. Does this benefit or harm my body and mind?
Proverbs 22:29 “Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank”.
Excellence grows with diligence and faithful effort.

4. Excellence honours God and inspires others.

If we live in excellence, our life becomes a testimony. It reflects respect towards God and love for people.
Mathew 5:16 “In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.”
Daniel 6:3 “Now Daniel so distinguished himself among the administrators and the satraps by his exceptional qualities that the king planned to set him over the whole kingdom.”
1 Peter 2:12 “Live such good lives among the pagans that, though they accuse you of doing wrong, they may see your good deeds and glorify God on the day he visits us.”
Our excellence can lead people to God. It reflects God’s work in our life and glorifies Him.

Your Life Plan! (God’s Blueprint)

Focus word for today is ‘God’s Blueprint’.
Heb 8.5 is the focus verse and it reads “... Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown to you on the mountain.”
He was warned to follow the pattern/blueprint shown to him on Mt. Sinai. Moses was shown a walk through video of what was to be done; especially based on the pattern of the heavenly tabernacle. Specific measurements were given for the tabernacle.
Declaration: I follow Heaven’s blueprint today; divine order produces divine success.
If we follow the divine order according to God’s will, then things will work out.
4 points to ponder about God’s blueprint

1.     God works according to divine patterns.

When Moses built the tabernacle, God instructed him to follow a specific pattern. God gave him a clear sketch. God is a God of order and design!
The Creator of this universe is a God of order and design. His works are not random but guided by divine wisdom. Our human body’s design, anatomy, physiology - is beyond our comprehension. Every creation has a divine pattern and order.
In Ex 25.9, God instructs - make the tabernacle according to the pattern I will show you. God has the pattern, model, blueprint, 3D measurements.
1Cor 14.33 reminds us that God is not a God of confusion but of peace. God is a God of order and not disorder.
In 1Cor 14, Paul is speaking about fellowship wherein different members have different gifts; some have the gift of tongues, some have the gifting of prophesies, and some of revelation – a gifted community who should know what to do and when. But there was discord. Confusion happens when there is no plan. That was when Paul stated that God is a God of peace and not discord or disorder. I have attended certain meetings where there is no order, only disorder and utter confusion. To avoid this, it is very essential that we have an order, a pattern.
Pr 3.19 says, “By wisdom the Lord laid the earth’s foundations, ……”
Following God’s blueprint ensures that what we build aligns with His purpose. We need to build according to His will. It can be our life, marriage, business, ministry – everything in God’s pattern and we get to know His purpose for our lives.
To build a big building, we can call builders, fabricators etc. But they ask for a sketch. So it is the architect’s turn first. They make detailed plans – entire layout, rooms, dimensions, height, wall thickness etc. Earlier contractors would draw sketches physically. But now we have draughtsman, autocad software - walk through advanced technology is available. But the principle remains, before constructing, a building design, detailed plans have to be readied. It is mandatory.
Constructions succeeds only when the workers follow the blueprint carefully. So in the same way - life, marriage, ministry has to be build according to God’s plan for it to be successful.

2.     God reveals his blueprint through revelation.

An illustration would be Moses who climbed atop the mountain and had an encounter with God and he received the blueprint. So divine direction often comes through moments of prayer, worship and listening to God. In Blessing Today, before taking up projects, we spent time in the presence of God; our antennas high. Suddenly a download happens. I quickly write it down, record it or even draw it and develop it to its complete form.
I still remember during Corona time, when permitted, I would come to the Blessing Today office, work and pray. One day while I was praying at home around 8.30am in the morning, the Holy Spirit gave me a revelation and I quickly noted it down; I rushed to the office and made a sketch on an A3 paper. That was the beginning of the staff quarters. Later experts got involved and a 10 room steel structure with dining, guest rooms rose. It happened!
With how much more clarity did God reveal his plans to Moses.
Ps. 25.14 say, “The Lord confides in those who fear Him ….”
Jn 16.13 says, “…. the Spirit of Truth, …. will guide you into all truth” because He is the Spirit of Truth. God reveals His plans to those who seek Him. For 40 days, Moses sought God atop the mountain. The other day a thought came to my mind - was there any dwelling on top of the mountain? Not even an umbrella and in the desert it would be extremely hot! Omelets could have been made on the rocks and extremely cold at night. He would have been praying in the presence of God in this harsh and extreme climate. Perhaps God would have covered Moses with His wings so that his body would not perish.
When a ship sails, the navigators read the maps carefully with the crew and captain. Spiritual insight helps believers to walk with clarity and direction.

3.     Obedience preserves the integrity of the plan.

Only through obedience can we stick to God’s plan. God wanted Moses to follow the pattern exactly as mentioned in Exodus 25, He warns him not to go against the plan; to build exactly as per the plan, measurements, shape, design, colour, material, he received about the tabernacle on Mount. Sinai. How would he know if it was according to God’s will? God’s glory would descend upon it.
Partial obedience or human modification can distort God’s intention like Saul – partial obedience; human modification of the Word – God’s given pattern of life to suit our convenience. Acts 5.32 reminds us to be careful to do what the Lord your God has commanded you to do. Joshua 1.7 says, “……. Be careful to obey all the law……”
James 1.22 says, “Do not merely listen to the Word, ……. Do what it says.”
Faithful obedience keeps our lives aligned with God’s design. Those who play music need to follow the notes exactly, if not only noise is produced and not music.

4.     God’s blueprint produces lasting results

God’s blueprint has stability and fruitfulness. In the book of Amos, God declares, I will hold the plumb line to ensure that the structure is built accordingly. It is inspected at intervals so that it rises up straight, error free and it does not fall over. So stick to God’s pattern while building what he wants you to build. Ps. 127.1 says, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labour in vain.” Build according to God’s plan and He himself will work on it. But build in one’s own strength and God will not work on it and it will fail.
In Matthew 7. 24-25 we read, the wise builder builds on rock.
1Cor 3. 10-11 says each one should build carefully on the foundation.
When I was small, while my house was being built, some workers failed to stick to the measurements. It slipped after a while, fell and had to be rebuilt. So stick to the plan!
Our life, business, studies, marriage, finances, church, ministry – anything you build; if not according to God’s blueprint and design; it won’t be strong, it won’t stand and will surely collapse like the tower of Babel.

Decide today and declare –
I decide to build according to God’s design and blueprint.
Let’s pray!

Leadership

Focus Word : Leadership
Focus Verse - Hebrews 13:7 - Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.

1. Leadership begins with the Word of God.

Hebrews reminds believers that leaders are those who spoke the Word of God. True spiritual leadership is rooted in communicating and living by God’s Word. Leadership in the Kingdom is not based on charisma and authority alone, but on faithful teaching of truth.
Though physically unimpressive and often mocked, Paul was a relentless missionary, a "chosen vessel" to carry the gospel to the Gentiles and his immense influence was not due to physical charisma or stature, but rather the spiritual authority and power of his message.
2 Timothy 4:2 - Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction.
Titus 1:9 - hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught,
Acts 20:27 - For I have not hesitated to proclaim to you the whole will of God.
A leader’s primary responsibility is to guide people through the truth of Scripture. The role of the lighthouse is not to change the nature of the sea (the chaos) but to provide a consistent, guiding light. True leadership lies in providing guidance and stability, rather than attempting to control or eliminate the chaotic circumstances surrounding someone
Matthew 5:14,15 “You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.
We have a great responsibility to learn and teach the Word of God; devoid of which people will stumble in deep darkness.
Isaiah 60:2,3 See, darkness covers the earth and thick darkness is over the peoples, but the LORD rises upon you and his glory appears over you. Nations will come to your light, and kings to the brightness of your dawn.

2. Leadership is proven by example.

Leadership is not only about teaching, but also about living what is taught. People learn more from what leaders live than from what they say.
Be examples to the flock (1 Peter 5:3)
1 Timothy 4:12 Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith and in purity.
1 Corinthians 11:1 Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
Authentic leadership is visible in daily character and conduct. A leader, much like an effective math teacher, does not just provide the solution; they teach the steps/process, fostering independence and confidence in others to deal with life problems - sin, sickness, relationships, finances, etc.Example clarifies instruction.

3. Leadership inspires faith.

The passage calls believers to imitate their leader’s faith. Great leaders strengthen the faith of those they lead. Their confidence in God becomes contagious.
Hebrews 11:1 - Now faith is confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see.
Romans 1:12 - that you and I may be mutually encouraged by each other’s faith.
Paul remembered the sincere faith of Timothy. (1 Timothy 1:5)
Leaders instill courage by trusting God, even during challenges. Team captains in mountain hiking and mountaineering instill courage by transforming a "solitary conquest into a shared victory" and ensuring that no one is left behind, even when the climb feels impossible. Faith in leaders strengthens faith in others.

4. Leadership leaves a lasting legacy.

Faithful leaders create a legacy that influences future generations. The impact of godly leadership often continues long after the leader’s lifetime. (Dr. Paul Yonggi Cho, Reinhard Bonnke, Sadhu Kochoonju Upadeshi, Sadhu Sundar Singh, Kathryn Kuhlman)
Entrust what you have heard to faithful people, who will teach others. (2 Timothy 2:2)
Psalm 78:4 we will tell the next generation the praiseworthy deeds of the LORD, his power, and the wonders he has done.
1 Corinthians 11:1 Follow my example, as I follow the example of Christ.
Faithful leaders do not merely lead people for a moment, they shape the future of many lives.

Declaration - I lead by example and humility. My life inspires others to follow Christ faithfully.

FRUITFULNESS

FOCUS VERSE:  John 15: 16 - You did not choose Me, but I chose you.

DECLARATION: My work bears lasting fruit; the Lord multiplies everything for His glory.

Fruitfulness is God’s purpose for our lives:  Jesus makes it clear that believers are appointed to bear fruit.  Christian life is not meant to be passive and unproductive.  God saves for us places in His kingdom so that our lives produce lasting impact.  We need to pray and ask the Holy Spirit to work in us, that we may bear much fruit for His kingdom.
John 15: 8 - By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be My disciples.  

Col. 1: 10 -  So as to walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing to Him: bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God.
Psalm 1: 3 - He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither.

If you are deeply rooted in Christ, you will bear fruit at the appointed time.  We should never be barren or like a deserted land; but, we should bear much fruit and multiply.  God’s intention for every believer is a life that produces spiritual results.  A tree does not exist to merely occupy space; its purpose is fulfilled when it bears fruit.  Right from creation as we see in the book of Genesis, God has created different kinds of seeds that we may have a variety of fruits.  This is true to humankind too - bear much fruit.  

Fruitfulness comes from remaining in Christ:  Jesus has spoken many times during His ministry - “Abide in Me.”  Fruit does not grow from human effort alone - it grows through connection to Christ.  This is why Jesus has said, “Apart from Me, you can do nothing.”  

John 15: 4 - Abide in Me, and I in you.  As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.
Galatians 5: 22 and 23 - But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, self-control; against such things there is no law.
Jer. 17: 7 and 8 - “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord, whose trust is the Lord. He is like a tree planted by water, that sends out its roots by the stream, and does not fear when heat comes, for its leaves remain green,..............

The secret of fruitfulness is spiritual connection.  A branch cannot bear fruit if it is separated from the tree.  It withers and dies and is good only as firewood.

Fruitfulness develops over time:  Fruit does not bear instantly.  Spiritual growth and impact develop gradually as we walk faithfully with God.

Mark 4: 28 - The earth produces by itself, first the blade, then the ear, then the full grain in the ear.
Gal. 6: 9 - And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.  
James 5: 7 - Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord.  see how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains.  

God works through seasons.  Some trees bear fruit throughout the year, while others bear fruit only in a particular season.  These are seasonal fruits.  We too, go through different seasons in life.  Sometimes it may be a planting season, sometimes a growing season, sometimes a pruning season - but at the end of it will be a fruit-bearing season.  

Fruit that lasts impacts eternity:  Jesus has spoken many times about - fruit that will last.  Temporary achievements may fade, but spiritual fruit carries eternal value.  Spiritual fruit may fade over time, but faith, hope and love will always remain.  

Matt. 6: 19 and 20 - Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.  
Daniel 12: 3 - And those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky above; and those who turn many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever.
1 Cor. 15: 58 - Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labour is not in vain.  

When lives are touched, disciples are built; love is demonstrated and those fruits remain beyond this life - crowns that will not fade. You will leave a legacy for the future generations.  Fruitfulness is not merely about success today but about impact that endures forever.  

God bless you all!

Hearing God

The focus word for today is Hearing God.

The focus verse is John 10:27 says, ‘My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.’

The declaration for today is ‘I hear the voice of the shepherd today. Divine instructions guide my building process.

Hearing God is a mark of a true disciple

God says, my sheep listens to my voice. So if you hear God’s voice, you are his sheep. Hearing God is not a rare experience reserved just for a few. It’s a normal relationship between the sheep and the shepherd. God’s voice is not reserved for just pastors or ministers. God does not say that, no one else other than his chosen people hears his voice. God desires communication with his people.

John 8:47 says, ‘Whoever belongs to God hears what God says. The reason you do not hear is that you do not belong to God.’

Jeremiah 33:3 says, ‘Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’

Revelation 3:20 says, ‘Here I am! I stand at the door and knock. If anyone hears my voice and opens the door, I will come in and eat with that person, and they with me.’

We can decipher from these verses that, Christian life is not only about believing in God, but also listening to him.

Many say that God spoke to them and you often wonder how and why that happens and more importantly why is God not speaking to you. A man of God explained this to me - when a baby is born, they are born with ears. But their hearing hasn’t fully developed yet. As time passes by, they start becoming attuned to certain voices and recognising them. In the same way when we are born again, we are blessed with the ability to hear God’s voice. But it’s our duty to develop our hearing and recognise and identify God’s voice and directions. The more you walk with God and read his word, the more you will be able to recognise his voice in your Spirit.

Hearing God requires a relationship with God

God says, ‘I know them, I know my people’. The question is, how is your relationship with God? We live in a world full of distractions with millions of voices. If we want to hear God’s voice in between all this, we have to develop our inner hearing to recognise and search for his voice.  Hearing God grows from a relationship with him, and not merely just information. The closer you walk with the Lord, the clearer his voice becomes. For instance, if someone is trying to communicate with you while they are a kilometer away, you will never hear their voice, but as they come closer and closer you gradually hear their voice. The more you grow closer to God, the clearer you will hear his voice.

Psalm 25:14 says, ‘The  Lord confides in those who fear him; he makes his covenant known to them.’

James 4:8 says, ‘Come near to God and he will come near to you. Wash your hands, you sinners, and purify your hearts, you double-minded.’

It is not God who should come closer to us, but we have to grow closer to God. We have to drive ourselves to God. We have to take the initiative to be closer to God.

Jeremiah 29:13 says, ‘You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.’

A relationship with God creates spiritual sensitivity. Think of a relationship between two friends who talk to each other everyday. They don’t have to see the caller ID to know who is calling them. Closeness sharpens recognition.

Hearing God requires quietness

Many people struggle to hear God’s voice because their lives are filled with noise and distraction. You need to stop talking, sharpen your ears and wait to hear God’s voice. God often speaks in quiet moments.

1 Kings 19:12 says, ‘After the earthquake came a fire, but the Lord was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.’

God spoke to Elijah in a whisper and that is how he usually speaks to us.

Psalm 46:10 says, ‘He says, “Be still, and know that I am God;’.

This is something that you need to practice, where you sit still and intently listen for God’s voice. By doing this you are waiting upon the Lord. Moses, Abraham, all our forefathers intently waited upon the Lord.

Isaiah 30:21 says, ‘Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, “This is the way; walk in it.”

This is God’s whispering voice. It is not necessary that God speaks in a loud booming voice, although many have experienced it. Sometimes he speaks to us in a gentle whisper. We need to be attuned to God’s frequency, for quiet hearts tune themselves to God’s voice.

Hearing God leads to obedience

Those who hear God’s voice will obey him, which is why John 10:27 says, ‘My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they follow me.’

Hearing God is meaningful only when it leads to obedience. God speaks to guide and shape our lives.

James 1:22, ‘Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.’

It is not merely enough to hear God’s voice, but it's important to do what he says and obey his instructions, otherwise we are deceiving ourselves. Do what the word says, do what the sermons say, listen to the Word of God.

Luke 11:28 says, ‘He replied, “Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it.”

John 14:21 says. ‘Whoever has my commands and keeps them is the one who loves me. The one who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I too will love them and show myself to them.”

Those who love God, will listen to his instructions. It is obedience that confirms that we truly heard the shepherd. If we don’t listen to his instructions, despite hearing his voice, it becomes futile. Guidance becomes useful only when it is followed.

Those who hear the voice of Christ, walk confidently because they follow the shepherd who leads them.

Peaceful building

Focus Word : Peaceful building
Focus verse : James 3:18 “Peacemakers who sow in peace reap a harvest of righteousness”
Declaration: I build in peace and love, my relationships become foundations for lasting fruit.
Peace is the soil where righteousness grows.
The book of James teaches that righteousness grows best in an atmosphere of peace. Righteousness is right standing with God. Conflicts, strife and division destroy the environment where godly fruit can grow.
Matthew 5:9 Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.
We need to consciously create peace.
Romans 14:19 Let us therefore make every effort to do what leads to peace and to mutual edification.
It is very easy to create strife and disagreements, but we should make every effort to create peace and support and empower each other spiritually.
Peace prepares the ground for spiritual growth. Seeds grow well in calm and healthy soil. But constant disturbance prevents roots from growing. Peace creates the environment where life can flourish.

2.Peacemakers build rather than break

Peacemakers are builders. They do not spread conflict or amplify misunderstandings. Instead they work to restore harmony and strengthen relationships.
Proverbs 15:1 “A gentle answer turns away wrath, but a harsh word stirs up anger.”
Instead of provoking, Romans 12:18 says “If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone.”
This means in some cases, it is not possible. When Paul traveled, many revolted against him and there was great unrest- there wasn’t peace there. But he still says, as much as possible, live at peace with everyone. Even though others may not keep peace with us, from our part we should build peace.
Peaceful words build lasting structures.

3.Peaceful builders carry wisdom from above.

The book of James tells us that wisdom from above is peace-loving. Godly wisdom doesn’t create confusion, it produces harmony.
James 3:17 “But the wisdom that comes from heaven is first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere.”
Proverbs 3:17 “Her ways are pleasant ways, and all her paths are peace.”
Colossians 3:15 “Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful.”
When God's wisdom governs our nests, peace becomes the guiding principle of our actions. Wisdom brings differences into unity. God is a God of varieties.

4.Peaceful spring produces a harvest.

Peacemakers sow in peace. Peaceful actions today produce righteous outcomes tomorrow.
Galatians 6:7,8 “7 Do not be deceived: God cannot be mocked. A man reaps what he sows. 8 Whoever sows to please their flesh, from the flesh will reap destruction; whoever sows to please the Spirit, from the Spirit will reap eternal life.”
Psalm 34:14 “Turn from evil and do good; seek peace and pursue it”.
2 Corinthians 13:11 “Finally, brothers and sisters, rejoice! Strive for full restoration, encourage one another, be of one mind, live in peace.”
Every action of peace will create a great harvest. Those who sow peace will reap righteousness.

The Shortest Way to the Top!

The focus word in your devotional diary is ‘Servanthood’.
Mt. 23.11 says, “The greatest among you will be your servant.”
Declaration: I serve with gladness today; true greatness is found in humble service to God and others.
4 aspects of Servanthood include:

1.     Servanthood redefines Greatness

Jesus modelled this on earth. The ideology/definition of Greatness was completely redefined by Jesus. The world measures greatness by power, position and recognition. Other parameters would also include financial standing, physical appearance etc.
But Jesus measures Greatness by service. Let’s look at some verses from the Bible namely, Mt. 20. 26 – 28 which says, “…… whoever wants to become great among you must be your servant …..”
Phil 2. 5 – 7 shows that Christ made himself nothing and took the nature of a servant – a very heart touching and fine example of humility while being God, and not impressing his divine position; rather took the form of man, a servant, humble even unto death, descending the seven steps into hell; after which he was raised to heaven by God in 7 steps, raised up as the name above all names, whose throne is above all thrones.
Lk 22.26 shows that the greatest should be like the youngest; the one who rules like the one who serves. Normally, I tell you what is seen in the earthly realm, the direct opposite is seen in the heavenly realm.
The Lord once said, that which is honourable before men is detestable before God. Many times, we aren’t able to fathom God’s greatness. In heavenly terms, greatness is not being above others but lifting others. A 32 storeyed building attributes its strength to its hidden foundation. Servanthood supports others quietly and faithfully. It is not about self-power or sitting above others.

2.     Servanthood reflects the Character of Christ.

Jesus introduced the concept of Servant leadership and destroyed the norm of leadership ie. to control and boss over others. To serve others, to live for others, to minister to others – Jesus was the only one to model this kind of leadership after which, many followed His example. Jesus not only taught servanthood but lived it too. The King of kings chose the path of humility and service. Jesus could have easily knocked off King Herod and ruled or established his throne in Jerusalem based on his lineage in the clan of David. But the Lord did not do it.
Jn 13. 14 -15 shows how Jesus washed the disciples’ feet and told them to follow his example.
Mk 10.45 – The Son of man came not to be served but to serve.
Isa 53.11 - By His service many will be made righteous.
Servanthood is the spirit of Christ, the Holy Spirit - working in us. When Believers serve others, they reveal the heart of Jesus. An illustration would be a shepherd who walks ahead of the flock; not to display authority but to guide and protect the flock.
True leadership always carry the spirit of service. In the New Testament, by shepherds in the church, Jesus points to the Pastors, elders, who need to move in front/ahead of the flock. They would have to stand on stage. They may not be able to do all the work off stage because their role has its own responsibilities and more while other appointed deacons, volunteers, greeters etc. can do the work allotted to them.
Another example is seen in Acts 6. We see an argument erupting about the distribution of food. Then some of the apostles said that they would not be able to engage in food distribution as they were into prayer and ministry. But there were some among them who could handle the distribution. They told them to appoint them and let them do the distribution. In other words, role play!
 
3.     Servanthood builds the community of God

It builds the church and fellowship. Servanthood strengthens unity and love within the church. Otherwise all would behave as kings and captains, unbothered by the fellowship’s needs. Whichever church, whatever denomination, around the world, the majority of people would attend the service/fellowship and leave. The majority of people do this. But if you are part of a church looking into the arrangements and facilities prior to the service, taking care of the needs of the community without expecting any reward – they accomplish true servanthood. Servanthood strengthens unity and love in the church. I often ask people if they do anything for the church because there are an endless number of opportunities to serve being a part of the body of Christ rather than to be a mute spectator who comes and goes. Introspect your role in the church. The next time you attend church, ask your pastor to delegate some work to you; not for monetary benefit but to do it for the church. Ask for work!
In my early days, I got a cleaning job in the church. I would go early and clean the floors of Faith Home and do the necessary arrangements for the service. For many years I did it and am still willing to do it. But being a shepherd, ministry calls to preach and minister the Word to the multitudes. I am now involved in sharing the Word and prophecies mostly and training plenty. This is my mentality.
When everyone seeks to serve rather than to be honoured, the whole body grows in harmony.
The unity and the fellowship turns beautiful. But if people were to hold an attitude and be unrelenting, then there would be lots of problems in the church. So let us rid ourselves of our egos and unwanted attitudes and let the mentality of servanthood take root in us. Respond with an amen.
Gal 5.13 speaks of serving one another humbly in love.
1Peter 4.10 asks to use whatever gift you have received to serve others.
Rm 12.10 – honour one another above yourselves.
A serving heart creates an atmosphere where people feel valued and cared for.
In Blessing Today, members who serve food are employed otherwise. But they still choose to serve the community. Similarly, greeters would be well employed. But they come early to greet and usher and create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.  Their reward in heaven is big. That’s why many don’t feel alone/orphaned when they come to church as there are people who care for them and serve them.
Consider a family. A healthy family has members who take up small small chores. The father, the mother do what they have to do. The children should do what they have to. The kids should not depend on the mother to do their chores. If each one does their part, that family turns into a mini heaven. So all viewing Morning Glory, please decide not to leave all the work to the parents, or on one son or daughter. Share the burden and serve each other.
 
4.     Servanthood receives God’s honour.

Jesus said, those who humble themselves in service will be lifted up. God sees every unseen act of service! Even if the pastors and community don’t see it.
Mt. 25.40 says, “……. whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.”
James 4.10 says, “humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.”
Col 3.23 - 24 says, “…… work at it with all your heart as working for the Lord…..”
Servants may not always receive recognition from people but God never overlooks faithful service. Many people leave church because they feel their service is not acknowledged but God does not overlook it.
Therefore, faithful service slowly produces visible fruit. Servanthood may appear small but in God’s kingdom it leads to true greatness! Decide to serve.
Let’s pray!
 

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Faith and Patience

Focus Verse -  Hebrews 6:12 - We do not want you to become lazy, but to imitate those who through faith and patience inherit what has been promised.

1. Faith and patience work together.

God’s promises are inherited not by faith alone, but by faith and patience together. Faith believes God’s Word. Patience waits for God’s timing.  Many people begin with faith, but lose heart during the waiting season.
Hebrews 10:36 - You need to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what he has promised.
James 1:3,4 - the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.
Romans 4:20,21 - Yet he did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised.
Faith receives the promise. Patience sustains the journey.
 A seed contains life well before it is sown. While it may appear dry and lifeless, a seed is a dormant, viable plant that remains in a "suspended animation" state until triggered to grow by the right environmental conditions. Faith plants the seed; patience waits for the growth and harvest.

2. Patience protects faith during delay.

Delay does not mean denial. God often allows waiting seasons to strengthen our faith. Without patience, people abandon the promise too soon.
Psalm 27:14 - Wait for the LORD; be strong and take heart and wait for the LORD.
Isaiah 40:31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.
Habakkuk 2:3 For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger, wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.
Patience guards the heart from discouragement. Patience supports faith until the promise becomes visible.

3. Faith and patience refuse laziness.

Waiting on God does not mean inactivity. Faith continues to obey and serve while trusting God for the outcome.
Galatians 6:9 - Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.
James 2:17 -  In the same way, faith by itself, if it is not accompanied by action, is dead.
1 Corinthians 15:58 - Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.
Faith acts; patience continues. A farmer does not plant a seed, and then sit idle for months. He continues watering, caring and protecting the crop while waiting for harvest.
Faith works while patience waits.

4. Faith and patience inherits the promise.

Every major promise in Scripture required both faith and patience. Abraham waited many years for Isaac. Joseph endured years before leadership came. David waited before becoming king.
James 5:11 - You have heard of Job’s perseverance and have seen what the Lord finally brought about.
Hebrews 11:33 - who through faith conquered kingdoms, administered justice, and gained what was promised; Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him.
Psalm 37:7 - Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him
God’s promises are certain; but they unfold in God’s time.
Life is not a sprint, but a marathon. Long distance runners win not by speed alone, but by endurance. Victory belongs to those who keep running until the finish line. Faith begins the race; patience finishes it.

Declaration - Faith and patience work together in me. I will see God’s promise completed in its time.

DISCIPLINE

FOCUS VERSE: Hebrews 12: 11 - No discipline seems pleasant at the time, but painful.   Later on however, it produces a harvest of righteousness and peace for those who have been trained by it.  

DECLARATION: I embrace discipline today; it shapes me into a stable builder in God’s kingdom.  

Discipline shapes character:  Discipline is not punishment; it is training.  God disciplines those He loves because He is shaping them into maturity.  If  He doesn’t discipline you   you are an illegitimate child.

Hebrews 12: 6 - God disciplines the ones He loves and chastises every son whom He receives.
Proverbs 12: 1 - Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge.  
2 Timothy 1: 7 -  God has given us the spirit of power and of self-control.

Without discipline talent collapses under pressure.  Character matures where discipline is practised on a daily basis.  Let us take the example of those persons in the sports field.  Every athlete trains daily with discipline to produce the best result even when there are no competitions or tournaments.  Discipline trains you for battles you cannot yet see.  An army keeps itself in good physique by training daily with rigour and discipline even when there are no battles in the near future.  

Discipline creates spiritual strength: Spiritual life is nurtured through consistent habits.  Prayer, Scripture reading, obedience, are not to be occasional acts.

1 Cor. 9: 27 - But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.
Joshua 1: 8 - Meditate on the word of God day and night.
Luke 9: 23 - Take up your cross daily and follow me.

Consistency multiplies spiritual authority.  You may not see results in your prayers in a week, month or even for years, but being consistent in prayer and faithfulness brings great rewards.  Daily discipline shapes spiritual depth.

Discipline protects your future:  Undisciplined lives drift to trouble easily.  Discipline creates boundaries that guard destiny.  

Proverbs 25: 28 - A man without self-control is like a city broken into and left without walls.
Gal. 5: 22 - ……..self-control is a fruit of the Spirit.
1 Timothy 4: 7 and 8 - Train yourself to be godly; for while bodily training is of some value, godliness is of value in every way, as it holds promise for the present life and also for the life to come.  

When discipline guards your life, many unnecessary problems do not get a chance to arise.  Many people do not seek God or even consider Him necessary until they fall into a big problem.  If you are disciplined and consistent in prayer, His presence will be evident  in the midst of your trouble.  A train runs only on a railway track to move forward smoothly and without hindrance.  We too, should have a track in our lives that we may not fall off and perish - discipline keeps us on the right track.

Discipline leads to long-term fruit:   Over the years man’s attention span has decreased to a great extent that he seeks instant gratification in everything.  People seek quick success - get rich quickly.  But God works through consistent growth.  Small acts of obedience repeated daily create powerful harvest over time.  

Gal. 6: 9 - At the proper time we will reap a great harvest if we do not give up.
Psalm 1: 3 - That person is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither.  
James 5: 7 - Be patient, therefore, brothers, until the coming of the Lord.  see how the framer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, being patient about it, until it receives the early and the late rains.  

Discipline today becomes a blessing tomorrow.  A musician practises for hours and hours daily that he be fluent with the notes to put up a perfect performance.  Private discipline produces public excellence.  I encourage people of all ages to train themselves in discipline in their spiritual and earthly life.  

God bless you all!

The focus word for today is Generosity.


Today’s focus verse is Proverbs 11:25 says, ‘A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.’

The declaration for the day is ‘I build through giving; as I pour out, God pours back in abundance.’

Those who are generous will prosper and those who refresh others' spirits will also prosper.

Generosity reflects the nature of God

 Generosity begins with God himself. At this time, think of two people who are generous. You may think that they got this spirit of generosity because they saw what their parents did and followed the lead. If you look at their lives, you will also see that God has blessed them with all that they need and more. However, generosity truly begins with God, as he is a giving God. Everything we enjoy in life flows from his generous heart. Our cars, our homes, our family, our friends are all things we enjoy because of God's generous heart.

John 3:16 says, ‘For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.’


James 1:17 says, ‘ Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.’

Acts 20:35 says, ‘In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.’

When we give generously we mirror the heart of our heavenly Father. We truly reflect the heart of our God, when we give. What can you give others today?

Acts 10:38 says, ‘how God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Spirit and power, and how he went around doing good and healing all who were under the power of the devil, because God was with him.’

Generosity is not merely a financial act, but it's a spiritual attitude. Giving should be our second nature. Sun does not shine selectively, it shines everywhere and continues to shine irrespective of the geography. It pours light everywhere. In the same way, generous people allow blessings to flow freely in their life. God is the source of all light and all goodness. Our God created the sun in our solar system. The Sun's nature is much like God, radiating light to all.

Generosity refreshes people around you

 Proverbs 11:25 says, ‘A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.’


If you refresh others, you will be refreshed, because generosity strengthens and encourages people. A kind word timely said, or an open hand can serve someone who is weary. Generosity is not always financial support, it can even be a kind word.


2 Corinthians 9:11 says, ‘You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.’

Don’t look at your current scenario. Know that its temporary. Our God can change our circumstances in a minute.

Hebrews 13:16 says, ‘And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.’

Proverbs 22:9 says, ‘The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.’

The generous themselves will be blessed. Don’t ever forget to do good for others. When we do good for others, it’ll come back to us in manifold. When you refresh others, God ensures that refreshment returns to you. Generosity is much like a well. No matter how much you take from them, it’ll never run dry as it will continuously be filled from its water source.

Generosity breaks the power of selfishness

Selfishness shrinks life, but generosity expands it. When people hold tightly to all they have, they shrink their own lives. There are so many misers among us, they are close fisted beings. The more you hold on to things, your world becomes small and you become more anxious. People are generally thankless and selfish, so its important that as people of God, we train ourselves to have a spirit of generosity.

Luke 6:38 says, ‘Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.’

1 Timothy 6:18 says, ‘Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.’

Ecclesiastes 11:1 says, ‘Ship your grain across the sea; after many days you may receive a return.’
Generosity frees the heart from fear and teaches us to trust God as our provider.

Generosity creates a cycle of blessing

Proverbs 11:25 says, ‘A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.’

God often multiples blessings through people who allow resources to flow through them. If you are in he habit of giving to others, God will keep giving you, making you a channel of blessing.

2 Corinthians 9:6 says, ‘Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.’

Psalm 112:5 says, ‘Good will come to those who are generous and lend freely,  who conduct their affairs with justice.’

Proverbs 19:17 says, ‘Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will reward them for what they have done.’

Blessings grow where generosity flows. Generosity is the seed that creates future harvest.

Holiness

Focus Word: Holiness
Verse: Leviticus 19:2 “Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.”
Declaration: Holiness is my strength; I build a life that reflects God’s purity and power.
God tells us very clearly to be Holy like Him.
Holiness is God’s nature reflected in us.
When we learn about God’s characteristics, we see shared attributes and unshared attributes. The unshared attributes are His omnipresence, His power, His omniscience, etc. God’s shared attributes are His holiness which he shares with us and helps us to grow into; also His love and compassion among other attributes!
Holiness is not merely rule-keeping. It is a resemblance of God. It means to become more like Him. God works on this in us but without our conscious effort, we cannot be more like Him.
1 Peter 1:15,16 “But just as he who called you is holy, so be holy in all you do; for it is written: “Be holy, because I am holy.””
Psalm 24:3,4 “Who may ascend the mountain of the Lord? Who may stand in his holy place? 4 The one who has clean hands and a pure heart, who does not trust in an idol or swear by a false god.”
2 Corinthians 7:1 “Therefore, since we have these promises, dear friends, let us purify ourselves from everything that contaminates body and spirit, perfecting holiness.”
The real meaning of holiness is ‘set apart’. Set apart for God means away from sin and the world. God has set apart all of us from the rest of the world; those who believe in God and follow Him. If you are part of these people, you need to be holy.

2.Holiness strengthens inner stability.

Holiness is not weakness. Some feel that being set apart or not doing what others do makes you a fool or an embarrassment. For example: drinking. To avoid the consequences and pitfalls of drinking, when people of God stop drinking, people may make fun of them.
Holiness is not weakness, it is strength
Proverbs 14:34 “Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin condemns any people”.
Isaiah 35:8 “And a highway will be there; it will be called the Way of Holiness; it will be for those who walk on that Way. The unclean will not journey on it;”
Hebrews 12:14 “Make every effort to live in peace with everyone and to be holy; without holiness no one will see the Lord.”
Sin weakens emotional structures from the inside. It affects people’s conscience, but demon spirits lead them to sin again. Holiness reinforces people. They will be fearless in their moral strength.
Holiness prevents internal corrosion. Purity guards your heart; strength guards your future.

3.Holiness invites God’s manifest presence.

Throughout scripture, Holiness precedes glory.
Exodus 19:10,11 “10 the Lord said to Moses, “Go to the people and consecrate them today and tomorrow, and let them wash their garments 11 and be ready for the third day. For on the third day the Lordwill come down on Mount Sinai in the sight of all the people.”
Joshua 3:5 “Joshua told the people, “Consecrate yourselves, for tomorrow the LORD will do amazing things among you.””
Holiness today leads to miracles tomorrow.
Psalm 96:9 “Worship the Lord in the splendor of his holiness; tremble before him, all the earth.”
God’s power flows freely in prepared vessels. With holiness we will not perish. In the Old Testament, the Israelites were transporting the Ark of the Covenant in the wrong way on an oxen. And here, Uzzah wrongfully tried to catch the Ark so it does not fall; he died immediately because he was not prepared.

4. Holiness is a daily choice.

It is not a moment, it is a lifestyle.
Romans 12:1 “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.”
Galatians 5:16 “So I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.”
Titus 2:12 “It teaches us to say “No” to ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled,upright and godly lives in this present age,”
God looks at our heart; what we think, read, watch even when no one is around. He sees what happens inside. We need to be holy on the inside daily. Only if we are very careful and mindful, can we keep ourselves holy. It is a daily conscious decision. Purity requires vigilance. This is what God calls us towards.

Build an Unshakable Life

Build an Unshakable Life

Title: Build an Unshakable Life: The Power of a Prayer Foundation (Prayer Foundation)
Today’s focus word is wonderful. It is ‘Prayer Foundation.’
Ps.127.1 says, “Unless the Lord builds the house, the builders labour in vain ….” This means that God needs to be an integral part of our work.
Declaration: Prayer is the foundation of everything I build; heaven partners with me in every plan.
Prayer Foundation:

1.     Prayer invites God into the blueprint.

We have a plan and our prayer invites God to our plan. Ps.127 does not discourage building. It warns us against building independently; ie. without depending on God and in our own strength and based own plans. It can be family, home, business anything. If God is not with you, then don’t attempt the venture. We shouldn’t build another tower of Babel.
Prayer is how we invite God into the design phase. A building has a design phase, the first stage. Invite God into the very first stage. Moses did not call draughts men or builders to build the tabernacle. Rather he went to the mountain top, prayed and fasted for 40 days, and according to the heavenly vision God showed him; probably a 3D vision and accordingly, the work was undertaken. God was invited into the project.
James 4. 13 – 15 says, “…… you ought to say, if it is the Lord’s will, we will live and do this or that.” Doing things in one’s own strength can land one into trouble. Invite God into the designing/conceptual phase itself.
Pro. 19.21 says, “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails.”
A man has many plans and projects but it is only God’s will that prevails. Why do we labour in vain? If God is not in the plan, project, then don’t venture into it, not even a life partner, if God does not will it.  Don’t build up something in one’s own strength and then expect God to bless the works, God will not!
Jer 29.12 says, “Then you will call me …... and I will listen to you.” So what happens is that Prayer shifts self-directed effort to God directed strategy. Any project undertaken without consultants or consultancy; the work will happen fast but it may stop midway. Consultation saves correction as consultation monitors and corrects work as it proceeds.
Prayer prevents wasted effort!

2.     Prayer strengthens the foundation before the structure rises.

Prayer is an essential foundation to build anything on. Many think on their own and due to peer pressure will jump into something and mid-way struggle and have pitfalls. But God being the Father he is – pulls the person out of the pit.
Another example would be Nehemiah. Nehemiah prayed before he rebuilt. He prayed for 4 months before he started the works. Read the book of Nehemiah.
Jesus prayed before he chose the 12 disciples – Judas was not a mistake. Though many have questioned his selection. It is all Lord’s mercy and not our qualifications. We can do things in our strength but God still loves us.
In my experience, I’ve seen many prophets whom I know – prophesy. They may not even lead a proper prayerful, holy life. But they prophesy big! And then there are those prophets who pray in earnest pleading not to prophesy without God’s grace – it could be a corrective prophesy at times. We see two versions. God has a unique approach to each person. His dealings are different. Perhaps it could be for the person to shift from his lethargy to being fruitful – a reward motivation perhaps. Whereas for the other prophet, it could be about trimming and pruning to enable more fruitfulness. Don’t compare the 2 prophesies.
In John 21.21, Peter asks, what will happen to the other? We should not be like that. The Lord was angry and retorted, “if I want him to live until I come back, what is it with you?” In other words, Peter was told to mind his own business!
Neh1.4 shows he fasted and prayed before approaching the King for leave. He laid the foundation in prayer.
Ps.20.4 says, “May He give you the desire of your heart and make all your plan succeed.”
Public strength is born in private prayer. In cities of high rise buildings and sky scrapers, there could be  sub basement level parking. But there are also a whole lot of pillars as a result of intense piling below the structure, invisible to the eye, on which these mega structures stand. Even if no one sees it, it is on which the entire building stands.
Similarly, prayer is the unseen depth that carries visible weight. In short, when you enter your room, as in Mt. 6.6, and pray without anyone seeing in secret, but your God sees, and He will give you an answer in public.

3.     Prayer aligns our labour with Heaven’s will.

Ps.127 – they labour in vain. So vain labour is not lazy labour. It is misaligned labour. You can see many working a lot but they do not get blessed in accordance   It is because God is not present in the work that was done independently of God. So decide today, “I will not work on my own strength. You, my God need to be with me. Just as the disciples cast the nets all night and returned empty handed; but when Jesus spoke and stepped into the boat; immediately there was an abundant catch of fish.
The Holy Spirit says and I prophetically declare, whatever you have strived for your entire life, when the Lord steps in, it will happen instantly.
Jn 15.5 says, “……. apart from me you can do nothing.”
In Col 1.29, we see that Paul labored with all his energy working powerfully in Him. He was not alone. The Holy Spirit worked in him.
Mt. 6.10 says “…. and your will be done ….”
Let your will be done in my life! Declare and pray it. If you do so, you will not have regrets – I shouldn’t have done that, undertaken that, I have lost all – no regrets.
Pray, pray, pray…. Prayer adjusts our motives and directions.
Persist in prayer and the Holy Spirit will redirect out will, our thoughts, our emotions. For example, all youth, both boys and girls, we pray with certain interests, that is human nature, but it may not be God’s will. But when you  pray, pray  ‘Let your will be done’ repeatedly. The ambitions, desires, dreams that are generated within us will slowly fade away and give way to God’s will which will become more and more clear. The direction changes. That is why prayer is required. Prayer is our foundation.
A ship requires a compass for directions in the middle of the waters. The compass does not move the ship but helps correct the direction. This is prayer. It corrects the course before the distance increases and deviates. Prayer corrects the course.

4.     Prayer sustains what efforts cannot.

What human efforts cannot sustain, prayer can! We need to understand that human strength has limits. But prayer connects to the limitless supply!
Isa. 40.31 says, “…. Those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength …. “
Phil 4. 6-7 instructs us to pray and the peace of God will guard you.
Heb 4.16 says approach the throne of Grace to receive help.
Let’s pray for a foundation of prayer in our lives!
Confess - I receive the Spirit of Prayer!

Divine Strategy

Focus Verse - Proverbs 16:3 - Commit to the LORD whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.

1. Divine strategy begins with commitment to God.    
 
                  When we surrender our plans to the Lord, He aligns our steps with His purpose. God establishes plans that are first committed to Him and shaped by His will.
Psalm 37:5 Commit your way to the LORD; trust in him and he will do this:
God is the best planner for our lives. He plans with foreknowledge and foresight - our salvation itself was planned before the foundations of the world were laid.
James 1:5 If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.

A GPS works only when the destination is entered correctly. When we commit our plans to the Lord, He becomes our divine navigator.

2. God’s strategy is often different from human logic.

Isaiah 55:8,9 - “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways,” declares the Lord. “As the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts.

The Jericho walls fell by God’s strategy. This is not human logic, this is divine strategy. For a wise man, even a blade of grass is a weapon.
Joshua 6:2-5 Then the Lord said to Joshua, “See, I have delivered Jericho into your hands, along with its king and its fighting men. March around the city once with all the armed men. Do this for six days. Have seven priests carry trumpets of rams’ horns in front of the ark. On the seventh day, march around the city seven times, with the priests blowing the trumpets. When you hear them sound a long blast on the trumpets, have the whole army give a loud shout; then the wall of the city will collapse and the army will go up, everyone straight in.”

Gideon’s army was reduced by God’s plan.
Judges 7:2-7 The Lord said to Gideon, “You have too many men. I cannot deliver Midian into their hands, or Israel would boast against me, ‘My own strength has saved me.’ Now announce to the army, ‘Anyone who trembles with fear may turn back and leave Mount Gilead.’ ” So twenty-two thousand men left, while ten thousand remained. But the Lord said to Gideon, “There are still too many men. Take them down to the water, and I will thin them out for you there. If I say, ‘This one shall go with you,’ he shall go; but if I say, ‘This one shall not go with you,’ he shall not go.” So Gideon took the men down to the water. There the Lord told him, “Separate those who lap the water with their tongues as a dog laps from those who kneel down to drink.” Three hundred of them drank from cupped hands, lapping like dogs. All the rest got down on their knees to drink. The Lord said to Gideon, “With the three hundred men that lapped I will save you and give the Midianites into your hands. Let all the others go home.”
When we commit our future plans to the Lord and receive a divine strategy from Him, we can achieve much more than we imagine in the most simple and effortless method.

3. Divine strategy is revealed through prayer and listening.

God reveals His directions to those who inquire of Him. Breakthrough comes through divine guidance, not human haste.
1 Chronicles 14:10-16 So David inquired of God: “Shall I go and attack the Philistines? Will you deliver them into my hands?” The Lord answered him, “Go, I will deliver them into your hands.” So David and his men went up to Baal Perazim, and there he defeated them. He said, “As waters break out, God has broken out against my enemies by my hand.” So that place was called Baal Perazim. The Philistines had abandoned their gods there, and David gave orders to burn them in the fire. Once more the Philistines raided the valley; so David inquired of God again, and God answered him, “Do not go directly after them, but circle around them and attack them in front of the poplar trees. As soon as you hear the sound of marching in the tops of the poplar trees, move out to battle, because that will mean God has gone out in front of you to strike the Philistine army.” So David did as God commanded him, and they struck down the Philistine army, all the way from Gibeon to Gezer.
Psalm 25:4,5 Show me your ways, LORD, teach me your paths. Guide me in your truth and teach me, for you are God my Savior, and my hope is in you all day long.
Jeremiah 33:3 Call to me and I will answer you and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know.’
A soldier acts upon a commander's instructions as a foundational, legal obligation of military service designed to ensure discipline, speed, and efficiency in operations. Similarly, prayer positions us to receive Heaven’s commands/ instructions.

4. Divine strategy produces victory and testimony,

When God’s strategy is followed, success brings glory to God and strengthens faith in others.
Proverbs 21:31 The horse is made ready for the day of battle, but victory rests with the LORD.
2 Corinthians 10:3,4 For though we live in the world, we do not wage war as the world does. The weapons we fight with are not the weapons of the world. On the contrary, they have divine power to demolish strongholds.
Psalm 44:3 It was not by their sword that they won the land, nor did their arm bring them victory; it was your right hand, your arm, and the light of your face, for you loved them.

Declaration - The Lord gives me wisdom and strategy for victory. My plans are directed by Heaven.

OBEDIENCE

FOCUS WORD:  OBEDIENCE

FOCUS VERSE: Deut. 28: 1 - If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow all His commands I give you today, the Lord your God will set you high above all the nations on earth.  

DECLARATION:  My obedience becomes a blueprint for God’s blessing.  I build according to His instruction.  In the book of Revelation, many times it has been repeated - let those who have ears hear.  

Obedience begins with careful attention:  Careful attention to the word of God is a pathway to obedience.
Hebrews 2: 1 -  Therefore we must give the more earnest heed to the things we have heard, lest we drift away.
We hear millions of sounds everyday.  Right from the chirping of birds heralding a new morning, barking sounds, television, cell phones, etc.  Along with this we are able to hear the voices of other spirits, our God and also of the devil.  Obedience is not accidental, it requires attentiveness.  In the Old Testament we read of the Prophet Samuel instructing King Saul to listen attentively.  Careful listening is connected to obedience.  Before action there should be listening.  

John 10: 27 - My sheep listen to my voice.  
James 1: 22 - Do not merely listen, do what it says.  
Exodus 19: 5 - If you obey me fully and keep my covenant, ……….

Careless hearing produces partial obedience; careful listening produces precise obedience.  If a builder ignores measurements the structure will fall.  Blessing follows careful obedience.  

Partial obedience is disobedience:  in the book of 1 Samuel we read that King Saul did not follow all the instructions of the prophet.  He did only what seemed fitting and pleasing to him.  He retained what God had told him to destroy.   And then he justified his disobedience; this caused him to be rejected by God.  

1 Sam. 15: 22 - To obey is better than sacrifice.  

John 14: 15 - If you love me, keep my commands.  

Luke 6: 46 - Why do you call me Lord Lord and do not follow my commands?

Obedience is proof of love.  Selective obedience is disguised rebellion, hidden rebellion.  Accuracy matters in obedience.

Obedience positions you for elevation: Deut. 28: 1 is a verse that connects you with being set high above the nations.  Elevation is not chased, it is positioned.  

Psalm 75: 6 and 7 - promotion comes from the Lord.  
Joshua 1: 8 - Obedience brings prosperity and success.
Isaiah 1: 19 - If you are willing and obedient, you will eat the good of the land.

 Obedience builds platforms and trusts.  Only when you align yourself with the will of God and obey His commands, will He be able to raise you up; doors open naturally.

Obedience builds long-term blessings:  Obedience is not only about immediate reward, it establishes generational blessings.  Blessings that affect land, family, legacy are all declared in the verses of Deut. 28: 1 - 14.

Matt. 7:  21 - Not everyone who says to me, “Lord, Lord,” shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.
Heb. 5: 8 - Jesus learnt obedience through what He suffered.
Rom. 5: 19 - For as by one man’s disobedience many were made sinners, so also by one Man’s obedience many will be made righteous.

Obedience shapes destiny.  A train cannot go forward when the track is broken or dismantled; it derails.  Similarly, if we want our life to follow a specific track and not get delayed or derailed at any place, we need to walk in obedience to God.  

God bless!  

The Secret to Divine Promotion

The focus word for today is Faithfulness in Work.

The focus verse for today is Colossians 3:23 says, ‘Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters’

The declaration for today is - I work faithfully in all God has entrusted to me, my labour is worship to the King.

Work is worship when done for the Lord

Once a man of God told me about the Seraphim in heaven. Seraphim continuously praises the Lord saying ‘Holy, Holy is the Lord Almighty’. As for them this is their work, this is their duty and this work is worshipping the Lord.

Colossians is written for the common believers and not for priests or pastors. The common believers often included maid servants and slaves who were bought from their slave owners. But the Lord says, whatever you do in your position, do it faithfully like you would do for the Lord. Humans created the distinction between sacred and secular, it was not a differentiation created by God. For God, it is one and the same, and there is no distinction. God’s principle is that, if you chase behind the spiritual, everything else will be added to you.

Colossians 3:24 says, ‘since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving.’

The believers that he is addressing are commoners, maids and servants. They are not preaching to anyone or working for the ministry, they do menial work everyday. However, the Lord says, whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, just like you would do for the Lord. You could be a plumber, a mason, a maid, any job that you do, you are doing it for the Lord. Not everyone is called for full time ministry, but that does not mean that the rest is wasted. It simply means that each person is expected to do tasks as per their calling. One is not greater than the other. The Lord says you should be faithful and obey even a person who might be difficult, because that is where the Lord has placed you and that is your work and you must do your work well as if you are serving the Lord. Ultimately Christ is your big boss.

Romans 12:1 says, ‘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.’

Proverbs 16:3 says, ‘Commit to the Lord whatever you do, and he will establish your plans.’

When motive changes, meaning changes. I believe that when a believer works at a company, because of them that organization will be blessed. Once a church was being constructed, and during that process a worker was asked what he was doing to which he replied saying that he was doing the electrical work. Another man was asked what he was doing to which he said ‘I’m building a church’. When the church was completed, the second man was asked to be part of the church and join the congregation. It is the motive that changed the meaning here.

Faithfulness is proven in the ordinary

God evaluates consistency and not visibility.

Luke 16:10 says, ‘Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.’

1 Corinthians 4:2 says, ‘Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.’

Proverbs 27:18 says, ‘The one who guards a fig tree will eat its fruit, and whoever protects their master will be honored.’

In each of these verses, God is telling us to be faithful in the little so that he can entrust us with the big. Faithfulness is not dramatic, it's a daily choice. Some of the smaller instances where one should be faithful includes, arriving on time at work, finishing assignments on time, keeping promises to your colleagues, maintaining standards. A clock moves forward not because of a dramatic jump, but because of steady unseen ticks. Progress is built on small consistencies.

Wholehearted work releases excellence

Colossians 3:23 says, ‘Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters’

There is a story of a man who worked for a construction company. He was their project manager and wanted to retire from the company after years of service. When he approached his boss, he encouraged him to stay on for one more project. The man obliged, however his heart was not in the project and somehow he completed it. Once the project was done, the man gave the key to his boss. To the man’s surprise his boss returned the key saying that this was a gift for him. He was shocked and wished he completed the villa to the best of his abilities. Hence, it is wholehearted efforts that produce enduring impact.

Ecclesiastes 9:10 says, ‘Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, for in the realm of the dead, where you are going, there is neither working nor planning nor knowledge nor wisdom.’

Psalm 37:5 says, ‘Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him and he will do this:’

Hebrews 6:10 says, ‘God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.’

Excellence is not perfectionism. Excellence is sincerity with full effort. If you are someone who performs a task wholeheartedly, you reflect God’s nature. Our God never works partially.

Philippians 1:6 says, ‘being confident of this, that he who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion until the day of Christ Jesus.’

Faithful work is never wasted

You may not always see recognition for your work, but it's never wasted effort as heaven reports everything.

1 Corinthians 15:58 says, ‘Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.

Galatians 6:9 says, ‘Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.’

Matthew 25:21 says, ‘“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’’

God rewards faithfulness before he rewards fame.

character

Focus Word: character

Verse: Proverbs 10:9 “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.”

Declaration: I built with integrity today, my inner life is stronger than my outer success.
Character is who you are when no one else is watching.

Most people act a lot more kindly when they are in public than when they are at home.
Integrity means wholeness, not fragmentation. It is being the same person in private and in public. It is alignment between belief and behaviour.
Psalm 15:1-2 Lord, who may dwell in your sacred tent? Who may live on your holy mountain? 2 The one whose walk is blameless, who does what is righteous, who speaks the truth from their heart;
Luke 16:10 “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.”
1 Samuel 16:7 “But the Lord said to Samuel, “Do not consider his appearance or his height, for I have rejected him. The Lord does not look at the things people look at.”
People misunderstand us because they look at our external actions, not what is going on inside. But God sees it all and understands us perfectly. God evaluates depth (our character) before releasing visibility.
Bank lockers usually have very thick doors. But its safety doesn’t depend on the thickness, but rather the many levers and locks working inside the door. No one sees this. Even our character is like this. Externally you only see parts of the character, but God sees inside perfectly.

2.Integrity creates stability.

Proverbs 10:9 “Whoever walks in integrity walks securely, but he who makes his ways crooked will be found out.”
Security is not produced by position, but by consistency.
Psalm 26:1 “Vindicate me, LORD, for I have led a blameless life; I have trusted in the LORD and have not faltered. Test me, LORD, and try me, examine.”
Proverbs 11:3 “The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.”
Colossians 3:23 “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters.”
When integrity guides you, you stop fearing exposure because you are confident of your actions.
When buildings are constructed, inspectors come to check the structure. They test the strength of the structure to see if it can stand in the face of disasters. A life of integrity passes inspection, even under scrutiny! There is nothing to fear. Security comes from clean living.

3. Talent can open doors, but character keeps them open.

Without character, even a person with great talent will lose opportunities. People may not like dealing with such people. Many people rise quickly, but few remain steadily. Those who rise quickly may even fall down just as quickly.
Giftedness attracts opportunity, character sustains influence.
1 Timothy 3 outlines characteristics of leaders. When you have responsibilities, you need the character to back it up.
Titus 2:7 “In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be.”
Proverbs 22:1 “A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”
A reputation built on talent can collapse, but one built on character will endure. Gandhiji is celebrated worldwide not because of his skills, but because of his character. He was inspired by Jesus’ teachings in Matthew chapters 5-7.
The strength of a bridge is not on its external painting, but on the strength of the internal concrete and steel rods that reinforce it. The steel reinforcement in our life is character. Build the inner steel before the outer span.

4. Integrity invites divine protection

Whoever walks in integrity walks in security. Security is not just emotional, it is spiritual.
Psalm 84:11 “For the LORD God is a sun and shield; the LORD bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.”
Proverbs 28:18 “The one whose walk is blameless is kept safe, but the one whose ways are perverse will fall into the pit.”
2 Corinthians 8:21 “for we aim at what is honorable not only in the Lord's sight but also in the sight of man.”
Integrity builds trust with God and man.
Success can be loud but our character is quiet. Platforms may rise and fall, reputation may fluctuate; but integrity anchors you. Build your inner world carefully. Guard your motives, protect your conscience, stay truthful even in small things. Your inner life must be stronger than your outer achievements. We must strive for integrity in our lives.