ALL NATIONS SHALL HEAR OF GOD'S GOODNESS IN YOUR LIFE - Nuggets from Jeremiah 33:9

ALL NATIONS SHALL HEAR OF GOD'S GOODNESS IN YOUR LIFE
(Nuggets from Jeremiah 33:9)

It's Day 365/365 in the year 2025, the last Day of the last month in the year. 

To draw the curtain in our 2025 Holiness Challenge series, God's word today is an icing on the cake:

Jeremiah 33:9 KJV
"And it (Jerusalem) shall be to me a name of joy, a praise and an honour before all the nations of the earth, which shall hear all the good that I do unto them: and they shall fear and tremble for all the goodness and for all the prosperity that I procure unto it." 

Here, God promised Jerusalem (His own people Israel) that their REFORMATION and RESTORATION shall REDOUND and REVERBERATE to His praise.

Jerusalem, being restored, shall glorify God by their OBEDIENCE to Him as a matter of gratitude, and God shall glorify Himself in their lives by His FAVORS to them.

Jeremiah prophesied that the nations shall hear of all the good that God has wrought in them by His grace and of all the good he has wrought for them by his providence. One of such was the wonder of their return out of Babylon which would make as great a noise in the world just as the wonder of their deliverance out of Egypt did.

"And they shall fear and tremble for all this goodness"...

The people of God shall fear and tremble, they shall be much surprised at it and shall be afraid of offending so good a God and would never wish to forfeit His favour.

This is the HERITAGE of GOD'S TRUE CHILDREN. God wants to make you ESTABLISH and MAKE YOU A PRAISE in the whole earth (Isaiah 62:7).

God wants your life to bring PRAISE and GLORY to His name, and this is the reason He has elected to announce you to the world, IF ONLY YOU CHOOSE OBEDIENCE OVER REBELLION. 

DON'T END 2025 IN REBELLION!

DON'T CROSS OVER TO 2026 AS AN ENEMY OF GOD! 2026 is just a couple of hours away, so instead of NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS, write down your INTERIM & ETERNITY GOALS as someone who wants to be more INTENTIONAL WITH GOD, your personal life, career and most importantly, your FINAL DESTINATION either by RAPTURE or DEPARTURE.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE
DAY 365 OF 365🔥

Thank you for journeying with us all through the 365 days this year. 

See you all in 2026 as the HOLINESS CHALLENGE continues ❤️.

📹 ALL NATIONS SHALL HEAR OF GOD'S GOODNESS IN YOUR LIFE 

POSSESSING YOUR POSSESSIONS; RESTORATION DETERMINED - Nuggets from Obadiah 1:17

POSSESSING YOUR POSSESSIONS; RESTORATION DETERMINED
(Nuggets from Obadiah 1:17)

"But on Mount Zion [in Jerusalem] there shall be deliverance [for those who escape], and it shall be holy; and the house of Jacob shall possess its [own former] possessions."  [Ezek. 36; Joel 2:32.]

On this penultimate day of the year 2025, God's word is strategic, and His desire is that you POSSESS ALL YOUR POSSESSIONS, leaving nothing behind.

Here, Obadiah was prophesying about the ULTIMATE TRIUMPH AND RESTORATION OF ISRAEL, GOD'S OWN NATION.

The RESTORATION and AGE-ENDURING PROSPERITY of the house of Jacob were highlighted from verse 17 till 21, showing how God will give them the entire possessions and put an end to all the opposition they have ever and will ever experience.

Israel has been undergoing stiff opposition from the time the Amalekites attacked them shortly after the Exodus from Egypt till date.
Currently, Iran, Syria, Lebanon, Iraq and Yemen are their major enemies, while militant forces like Hamas and Hezbollah have been a thorn in the flesh of the nation Israel.

Gaza strip has been a bone of contention and a flashpoint in the ongoing war between Israel and Palestine for some decades now.

From 1933 to 1945, during the HOLOCAUST, the Nazi Germany regime headed by Adolf Hitler persecuted and murdered 6 million Jews. Unstoppable as they have always been, the nation of Israel began to return back to their native land and the state of Israel was officially declared on 14th May, 1948.

Since then, the nation Israel has been facing stiff opposition till date, which will culminate towards the end of the great tribulation when the antichrist and his forces will want to annihilate them after deceiving them and breaking the truce, during which time Jesus Christ our Lord will surface with His angels in the battle of Armageddon.

Jesus Christ will come in His glory as the King of kings and the Lord of lords and put an end to the assault of the antichrist and his forces to the nation Israel, marking the end of wicked human rule and the beginning of CHRIST'S MILLENNIAL REIGN - THE GOLDEN AGE.

By extension, God's own children who are SINCERE AND GENUINE, have been facing stiff opposition and assault by the enemies, denying them their possessions and oppressing them with reckless abandon.

However, God says that the time to end the oppression has finally come.
He will deliver you from the hands of the enemies, but THERE IS A CONDITION - THERE SHALL BE HOLINESS.

This is the essence of the HOLINESS CHALLENGE; you can't have unrestricted access to God's blessings without HOLINESS. 

DEDICATE YOUR LIFE TO GOD, PLEASE HIM EVERY DAY AND YOU WILL POSSESS ALL YOUR POSSESSIONS NOW AND IN THE NEW YEAR AND YEARS AHEAD.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE 
DAY 364 OF 365🔥

📹 POSSESSING YOUR POSSESSIONS; RESTORATION DETERMINED

ARRAYED IN CLEAN, WHITE LINEN AT LAST - Nuggets from Revelation 19:8

ARRAYED IN CLEAN, WHITE LINEN AT LAST
(Nuggets from Revelation 19:8)

"And to her was granted that she should be arrayed in fine linen, clean and white;" 

Who is John the Beloved referring to here?

Let's take a look at the preceding verse: 

Revelation 19:7 AMPC
"Let us rejoice and shout for joy [exulting and triumphant]! Let us celebrate and ascribe to Him glory and honor, for the marriage of the Lamb [at last] has come, and His bride has prepared herself." [Ps. 118:24.]

The female character portrayed in today's verse is THE CHURCH, THE BRIDE OF CHRIST.

There is a MARRIAGE SUPPER underway; between the BRIDEGROOM - Jesus Christ our Lord, and His bride - THE CHURCH.

When you hear 'THE CHURCH', please, do not misconstrue it for the physical structure where people gather to worship God.

Don't get it twisted either by thinking that 'THE CHURCH' here refers to the name of your religious organization.

These are misconceptions that have over the decades and centuries made ignorant people to bastardize the word 'CHURCH', making it lose it's real ESSENCE and VALUE as BODY OF CHRIST.

Anyone who has been CONVERTED, REGENERATED and RECONCILED with God, having accepted Jesus Christ as his/her Lord and personal savior and living a HOLY LIFE everyday, is an INTEGRAL PART OF THE BODY OF CHRIST and can be classified as THE BRIDE OF CHRIST.

The FINE LINEN of the BRIDE is the RIGHTEOUSNESS of the SAINTS, not GOOD WORKS.

GOOD WORKS or SELF-RIGHTEOUSNESS cannot RECOMMEND or JUSTIFY you before God, that is why you need to have a PERSONAL ENCOUNTER WITH JESUS CHRIST.

The scripture says that "our RIGHTEOUSNESS is like FILTHY RAGS before God." 

Any regenerated child of God is the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD IN CHRIST and Christ's righteousness can be likened to FINE LINEN, CLEAN and WHITE because of its SPOTLESS PURITY. 
 

ANYONE ARRAYED IN THIS FINE LINEN, CLEAN AND WHITE, STANDS BEFORE GOD BLAMELESS, WITHOUT SPOT AND BLEMISH, FAULTLESS BEFORE THE THRONE OF GOD.
 

THIS SHOULD BE YOUR RESOLVE GOING FORWARD.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE
DAY 363 OF 365🔥

 📹 ARRAYED IN CLEAN, WHITE LINEN AT LAST

UNDEFILED GARMENTS - Nuggets from Revelation 3:4

UNDEFILED GARMENTS
(Nuggets from Revelation 3:4)

Irrespective of the pollution and moral decadence in the world, God still has faithful remnants like the few saints in the church in Sardis, who kept themselves UNDEFILED and PURE, free from the quagmire of sin and every form of filthiness.

The evaluation of the church at Sardis focused on their deeds. In contrast to some of the other churches in Asia Minor, what they are doing doesn't look sinful. In fact, it looked so good from the outside that Sardis had a reputation for being alive, but God doesn't view from human perspective and as a result,  doesn’t evaluate things the way we do, as He told His prophet Samuel, when he was about to anoint the new king of Israel from the house if Jesse after being deceived by the appearance and build of Eliab.

The diagnosis revealed that in God’s eyes the deeds of the church at Sardis were “unfinished” (the Greek says “not full”). What was God looking for? Well, as He told Samuel, He was looking at their hearts. 

1st Corinthians 13 reminds us that from God’s point of view, even the most extraordinary spiritual gifts and impressive sacrifices are empty and worthless without Love. Jesus' letter to the church at Ephesus in Revelation 2 highlights the priority of our love for God. The scripture teaches us that AUTHENTIC LOVE for God expresses itself in Obedience to God's instructions and Love for others as much as we love ourselves.

As you meditate on what each of these means through the lens of the Scriptures, ask God to show you what your deeds are full of. 

OBEDIENCE to God or selfishness by prioritizing love for yourself alone?
Love for God?

God takes notice of the minutest number of those who abide with Him, and they are so PRECIOUS in His sight.

There were many people indicted in the church at Sardis who all heard the same word of God with the few names who were UNDEFILED, just the same way everyone in any local church assembly has equal access to the word of God.

What matters is what you do with the word you hear, not the actual RELIGIOUS DISPLAY of being PHYSICALLY PRESENT in every church service but always ABSENT and ESTRANGED to God with no traces of your name in the Lamb's book of life.

The few names in Sardis who chose not to mingle and play religion did not allow the pressure from within to dissuade them, neither did they allow  religion pose a threat to their relationship with God.

Jesus made a very gracious promise to these faithful ones in Sardis, and by extension, He is making a promise to everyone who has DARED TO LIVE HOLY LIFE IN THIS POLLUTED WORLD irrespective of the corruption and decadence, that they shall walk with Him in white, for they are worthy; showing the justification, honor and glory the SAINTS will experience in ETERNITY. 

This is such a worthy honor, a reward for INTEGRITY, FIDELITY and LOYALTY to Christ.

This is a challenge to everyone who has identified with Jesus Christ to be intentional about your ETERNITY GOALS because who walk with Christ in the clean WHITE GARMENTS of REAL PRACTICAL HOLINESS here in this world, who vow to keep themselves UNSPOTTED from the WORLD, shall walk with Christ in the WHITE ROBES of HONOR and GLORY at the end of time, reigning with Him forever, world without end.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE
DAY 362 OF 365🔥

📹 UNDEFILED GARMENTS

WHEN THE LORD TURNED THE CAPTIVITY OF ZION - Nuggets from Psalm 126:1-2

WHEN THE LORD TURNED THE CAPTIVITY OF ZION
(Nuggets from Psalm 126:1-2)

This was a typical definition of DREAMY REALITY.

Zion (Israel) was in captivity as a result of their sins but suddenly, God gave them a PLEASANT SURPRISE,  God sent them into captivity, not as dross is put into the fire to be consumed, but as gold to be refined.

The return of the Jewish exiles from captivity in Babylon was surreal. They never saw it coming, but because God's ways are past finding out, He showed them mercy when they least expected it.

 Surprisingly, it was a Persian King,  Cyrus that orchestrated this deliverance. He passed a decree allowing them to rebuild Jerusalem and the Temple, as recorded by Ezra and Nehemiah.

The Jews returned from exile after 70 years of captivity, servitude, pain and despondency. The 'SUDDEN' DELIVERANCE seemed too miraculous after decades of suffering.

The laughter and songs of joy were nothing short of a sharp contrast with the sorrow they experienced in Babylon whilst in exile (see Psalm 137), where they wept by the rivers of Babylon.

Even the heathen were witnesses to this awesome turnaround in their lives as they proclaimed: 

"The Lord has done great things for them".

This DELIVERANCE of the Israelites is a testament of God's faithfulness and how He uses everything to work out His divine purpose, effortlessly turning sorrow into joy.

Just as the year is winding up gradually, you may have experienced terrible situations that could be likened to the captivity of the Jews in Babylon. You may be in some sort of exile presently, but God's word to you today is: "DO NOT DESPAIR." 

God specializes in making impossible things possible.
It doesn't matter how bad the year 2025 was for you, just remain optimistic and keep hope alive, because SUDDENLY, GOD WILL TURN THINGS AROUND FOR YOUR GOOD.
 

YOU WILL BE LIKE THEM THAT DREAM, YOU ARE ABOUT TO EXPERIENCE A GAME-CHANGING RESTORATION IN YOUR LIFE JUST AT THE NICK OF TIME, RIGHT BEFORE THE YEAR 2025 ENDS.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE 
DAY 361 OF 365 🔥

📹 WHEN THE LORD TURNED THE CAPTIVITY OF ZION 

WORTHY AND READY FOR THE WEDDING BANQUET OR NOT? - Nuggets from Matthew 22:8

WORTHY AND READY FOR THE WEDDING BANQUET OR NOT?
(Nuggets from Matthew 22:8)

Imagine you as King preparing a magnificent banquet for your son, the crown Prince and inviting guests but unfortunately, none of them showed interest, all turning down your invitation.

If you were in the King's shoes, what would be your reaction?

The PARABLE OF THE WEDDING FEAST was a very clear message of our Lord Jesus Christ which He used to depict the provision made for perishing souls in the gospel.

God is the KING, the CHIEF HOST of the ROYAL BANQUET and JESUS CHRIST is His son, the CROWN PRINCE whose wedding invitation was thrown open to UNWORTHY and UNDESERVING GUESTS.

The GUESTS to whom He offered the special invitation first of all were the JEWS, and how did this happen?

The prophets of the Old Testament tried their BEST but couldn't succeed in convincing the Israelites/Jews.
Then came John the Baptist, the forerunner of Jesus who heralded His coming to the Jews. That couldn't move them either.

Jesus Christ our Lord now came Himself to deliver the message to them PERSONALLY, telling them repeatedly that the kingdom of God was at hand, and what did He get?
Rejection, Betrayal and Conspiracy.

They killed our Lord, the MESSIAH who came to save them.

They were still hoping that their Messiah would come 'from God knows where.'

Jesus resurrected, commissioned His Apostles and prepared them for the task ahead, to pick up the baton and continue from where He left off, sending them the Holy Spirit to comfort, empower and equip them for the task ahead, but they met roadblocks still. They were persecuted and even Martyred, then God arrested one of the chief persecutors of the early church - Saul on his way to wreck more havoc.

He eventually got converted and became the APOSTLE TO THE GENTILES, who took the gospel message to other parts of the world other than Jews.

His message was very clear, that SALVATION WAS NOT JUST FOR THE JEWS, but for the GENTILES too (anyone not an Israeli or Jew).

These GENTILES were the ones to whom the King bade His servants to go to the streets and highways and invite to the wedding banquet.

Since the Jews were not ready, SALVATION was extended to the GENTILES. The Jews have always had a track record of MAKING LIGHT OF THE SALVATION that came to them on a platter of Gold, but fortunately for the rest of humanity, the Jews were not the only ones in God's salvation plan. 

The offer of SALVATION to the Gentiles was not expected; it was such a surprise as it would be to wayfaring men, to be invited to a royal wedding-feast.

To QUALIFY for the WEDDING BANQUET - THE MARRIAGE SUPPER OF THE BRIDEGROOM, RIGHTEOUSNESS AND SANCTIFICATION OF THE SPIRIT MAN are prerequisites that must be met - THE WEDDING GARMENTS.

SALVATION IS FOR ALL - THE WEDDING INVITATION, but just like every other wedding, invitees are expected to come prepared, with your invitation card and a dress code to qualify you for CHECKING IN to the banquet hall.

In like manner, anyone who does not take advantage of this call for and window of opportunity that the GENTILES have now to get saved will not be allowed to the marriage supper of the Lamb at the end of time.

Many are called, but few are chosen!
Many are invited to this banquet, but only few will eventually make it at last.

DARE TO BE AMONG THE FEW.

DON'T BE LIKE THE JEWS WHO REJECTED THE OFFER OF SALVATION; MAKE HAY WHILE THE SUN SHINES.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE
DAY 360 OF 365🔥

📹 WORTHY AND READY FOR THE WEDDING BANQUET OR NOT?

RECIPROCATING GOD'S LOVE - Nuggets from 1 John 4:19

RECIPROCATING GOD'S LOVE
(Nuggets from 1 John 4:19)

"We love Him, because He first loved us."

Today's scripture does not in any way suggest that you should have a reason or condition for loving God.

It simply means that His love is the incentive, the motive, and moral and propeller of our love for Him. 

You cannot but love so good a God, who first of all looked out for you in your undeserving and unworthy state. He loved you when you were at your lowest, unfaithful, unloving and unlovely.

God has been seeking and soliciting your love at the expense of his Son's blood; and has condescended to beseech us to be reconciled unto Him. 

WHAT AN AMAZING LOVE!

YOUR LOVE FOR GOD IS A PRODUCT OF HIS LOVE FOR YOU.

You cannot love God, unless you believe that He loves you, and you will never be absolutely sure of that, unless you have experienced it firsthand from the Cross of Calvary - THE EMBLEM OF HIS SUFFERING AND SHAME which underscores His UNFEIGNED LOVE. 

It would be sheer selfishness for anyone to give God conditions or grounds on which you should love Him and show him your loyalty because He never demanded anything from you before offering His son to die on the cross. 

What have you done for God to RECIPROCATE this LOVE?

Dedicating your life to God is the BEST WAY to RECIPROCATE your love for God.

OBEDIENCE TO GOD'S INSTRUCTIONS REFLECTED THROUGH HOLINESS IS THE ONLY PROOF THAT YOU LOVE GOD.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE 
DAY 359 OF 365🔥

📹 RECIPROCATING GOD'S LOVE

CONSEQUENCES OF REJECTING THE LORD - Nuggets from Proverbs 8:36

CONSEQUENCES OF REJECTING THE LORD
(Nuggets from Proverbs 8:36)

To understand the context of King Solomon in this verse, let's take a look at the preceding verses: 

Proverbs 8:32-35

Verse 32 says:
"Now therefore listen to me, O you sons; for blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) are those who keep my ways." [Ps. 119:1, 2; 128:1, 2; Luke 11:28.]

This is an INVALUABLE EXHORTATION to everyone to hear and obey the voice of WISDOM, attend to it and comply with the good instructions that the word of God gives us. There are BLESSINGS for everyone who discerns the voice of Christ, and obeys all His instructions as stipulated in the scriptures because IF THE LORD IS TRULY YOUR SHEPHERD, YOU WON'T HESITATE TO OBEY HIS VOICE AS AN OBEDIENT SHEEP; the sheep knows the shepherd's voice.

Verse 33:
"Hear instruction and be wise, and do not refuse or neglect it." 

This is a candid advice to everyone who comes across the word of God, written or spoken, to APPLY WISDOM by not refusing or neglecting it.

Verse 34:
"Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors."

More BLESSINGS are reserved for all those who listen to the voice of the SAVIOR, THE VOICE OF WISDOM. 
Such an assurance of happiness to all those that do hearken to Wisdom.
They are blessed that watch and wait at Wisdom's gates. 

This shows ACTIVE EFFORT; if you must find WISDOM, you have to make a move.
 

ALL THOSE WHO SEEK WISDOM SHALL FIND WHAT THEY SEEK.

Verse 35 tells you WHAT HAPPENS WHEN YOU FINALLY FIND WISDOM: 

"For whoever finds me [Wisdom] finds life and draws forth and obtains favor from the Lord." 

If the king's favor is towards a wise son, how much more the favor of the King of kings?

Jesus Christ is the EMBODIMENT OF WISDOM, and he that finds Christ finds life. He that has the Son of God has life, eternal life, and he shall obtain favour of the Lord.

Now comes today's verse which highlights the CONSEQUENCES AND DOOM AWAITING THOSE WHO REJECT WISDOM (CHRIST).

They are left to ruin themselves, and Wisdom will not hinder them, because they have set at nought all her counsel.

Such people sin against Christ by treating His authority with contempt. This is construed into HATING WISDOM.

They are His enemies, who will not have Him to reign over their lives as Lord and personal savior. 

What can appear worse than hating Him who is LIFE HIMSELF, the Day spring from on High?

The punishment of anyone who rejects JESUS CHRIST IS JUSTIFIED, because they willfully chose death over life by making themselves repulsive in the eyes of God.

God's recommendation is that we should hearken to the voice of His son Jesus Christ without hesitation.

REJECTING CHRIST IS REJECTING MERCY AND LIFE.

Blessed are those who hear the Saviour's voice, and obey His instructions, spending time in His presence daily, whilst influencing others to do same through their lives.  

CONTINUING IN SIN AND REBELLION MEANS REJECTING JESUS AND THIS WILL JUSTIFY GOD WHEN HE DECIDES TO JUDGE.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE
DAY 358 OF 365🔥

📹  CONSEQUENCES OF REJECTING THE LORD

TURN FROM YOUR EVIL WAYS - Nuggets from Ezekiel 33:11

TURN FROM YOUR EVIL WAYS
(Nuggets from Ezekiel 33:11)

This is a SOLEMN DECLARATION of God's willingness and readiness to show mercy to any sinner who is ready to REPENT and turn away from evil.

The people of Israel were suffering from the consequences of their rebellion and iniquity and God sent Prophet Ezekiel to them to tell them that though their case was pitiful, they still had hope if only they could retrace their footsteps and turn away from all evil deeds.

What are the key deductions from this?

1). God has no delight in the death of sinners, but would rather they should turn and live. 

He has said it, He has sworn it, that by these two immutable things, in both which it is impossible for God to lie, we might have strong consolation. We have His word and His oath, and since He could swear by no greater, He swears by himself: "As I live". 

As long as a penitent repents and forsakes their evil ways, they will surely live.

(2) God's MERCY is MATCHLESS. You offend God, yet instead of punishing you, He still offers you A SECOND CHANCE AT LIFE. He comes looking for you in spite of your obstinacy, He comes to knock at the door of your heart, yet some refuse to open.

If anyone dies in sin, it is their choice, not God's. 

- He sacrificed His only begotten son for a REBELLIOUS HUMAN RACE. 

- He beckons you to come and reason with Him no matter how dirty your life has been:

"Come now, and let us reason together, says the Lord. Though your sins are like scarlet, they shall be as white as snow; though they are red like crimson, they shall be like wool."
(Isaiah 1:18)

- He still comes to knock at the door of your heart and wait patiently for you to open - THE ALMIGHTY GOD BEGGING A HELPLESS AND HOPELESS SINNER TO REPENT; WHAT A GOD!!
 

YOU HAVE NO REASON TO PERISH, AFTER ALL THESE PROVISIONS HAVE BEEN MADE BY GOD.
 

TURN AWAY FROM YOUR SINS AND DO NOT KEEP GOD WAITING!

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE
DAY 357 OF 365🔥

📹 TURN FROM YOUR EVIL WAYS 

CHRIST JESUS, THE ONLY BRIDGE - Nuggets from John 5:24

CHRIST JESUS, THE ONLY BRIDGE
(Nuggets from John 5:24)

For better comprehension, let's take a look at the rendering of this scripture in the AMPLIFIED VERSION:

"I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, the person whose ears are open to My words [who listens to My message] and believes and trusts in and clings to and relies on Him Who sent Me has (possesses now) eternal life. And he does not come into judgment [does not incur sentence of judgment, will not come under condemnation], but he has already passed over out of death into life." - John 5:24

He that heareth my word - To "hear," in this place, evidently denotes not just the outward act of hearing, but to RECEIVE IN A PROPER MANNER; to ENSURE IT MAKES A PROPER IMPRESSION ON THE MIND, to OBEY. 

The word "hear" is often used in this sense, Matthew 11:15; John 8:47; Acts 3:23. Many persons outwardly hear the gospel who neither understand nor obey it.

My word - My doctrine, My teaching. All that Jesus taught about Himself, as well as about the Father.

On him that sent me - On the Father, who, in the plan of redemption, sent His Son to save mankind. See John 3:17. Faith in God, who sent his Son, is WHAT CONNECTS YOU TO ETERNAL LIFE.

There can be no FAITH in Him who "sent" His Son, without FAITH in Him who was "sent."

Believing in God is incomplete without believing in His son, Jesus Christ, and in like manner, believing in Jesus Christ without believing God is totally pointless.

HEARING IS PASSIVE, BUT BELIEVING IS ACTIVE.

The "dead" do not respond to anything. They are unaffected by the cares, pleasures, amusements of this world. They hear neither the voice of merriment nor the tread of the living over their graves. 

Those who hear God's word and do not believe, apply or abide by them are as good as dead because they treat it with levity. Such people CANNOT have EVERLASTING LIFE.

Sinners fall into this category, and that is why they remain adamant and indifferent to God's word. The word of God can only make impact in the life of someone who HEARS IT, BELIEVES IT and goes a step further to LIVE IT OUT PRACTICALLY.

"Shall not come into condemnation".. We were once under condemnation by nature. John 3:18; but the moment you decide to treat God's word with SERIOUSNESS and apply all you hear, you are emancipated from every CONDEMNATION and you will never return to that state again. 

"But is passed from death unto life"  - Has "passed over" from a state of spiritual death to ZOE LIFE fully powered by Jesus Christ.

1 John 5:20 AMPC
"And we [have seen and] know [positively] that the Son of God has [actually] come to this world and has given us understanding and insight [progressively] to perceive (recognize) and come to know better and more clearly Him Who is true; and we are in Him Who is true–in His Son Jesus Christ (the Messiah). This [Man] is the true God and Life eternal."
 

JESUS  CHRIST IS THE ONLY WAY AND THE ONLY BRIDGE THAT LEADS YOU FROM CONDEMNATION TO ETERNAL LIFE.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE
DAY 356 OF 365🔥

📹 CHRIST JESUS, THE ONLY BRIDGE 

PEACE WITH GOD - Nuggets from Romans 5:1

PEACE WITH GOD
(Nuggets from Romans 5:1)

The Apostle Paul declares in Romans 5:1, "Therefore being justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ." This verse highlights the fact that the relationship of every RIGHTEOUS person is SEALED, not as a result of your own righteousness or good works, but because you are made the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD IN CHRIST JESUS! 

You're not just forgiven but JUSTIFIED, DECLARED RIGHTEOUS, made RIGHT with God, and given ACCESS to His presence.
 
You have PEACE with God, not because of who you are, but because of who Jesus is! Through Him, you've been given a new standing and status before God: ACCEPTED, LOVED, and DEARLY CHOSEN! No condemnation, no guilt, no shame, just the righteousness of Christ covering you.
 
This PEACE is the very essence of your new identity in Christ, and it's the foundation that holds you STEADY amidst life's storms. At this point, you don't struggle to earn God's love; you simply harness all the benefits He has put in place for you.

Picture yourself standing before God, not on the basis of your performance, but on the perfection of Jesus Christ! 

The Bible says in Ephesians 2:14, "For he is our peace, who hath made both one, and hath broken down the middle wall of partition between us." 

Jesus is our peace, and He's given us access to walk in this peace!

It is sin that breeds the quarrel between us and God. Sin makes you a stranger and enemy of God because His HOLY NATURE cannot condone any iota of INIQUITY.

Every sinner lives in the terror of guilt and condemnation because THERE IS NO PEACE FOR THE WICKED. 

Justification takes away the guilt, and makes way for peace. This happens when you ACKNOWLEDGE YOUR SINS, REPENT SINCERELY and RESOLVE TO MAINTAIN a life that is void of sin.

It is out of God's magnanimity and goodwill to man that He removes every guilt from the sincere heart, replacing it with SANITY AND PEACE OF MIND.

Abraham, being justified by faith, was called the friend of God (James 2:23), WHAT AN HONOR!

Surely, a man needs no more to make him happy than to have God being his friend and at peace with you! 

Jesus is the PRINCE OF PEACE and the ONLY one qualified to BROKER PEACE BETWEEN GOD ALMIGHTY AND MANKIND, our ONLY MEDIATOR. 

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE 
DAY 355 OF 365🔥

📹 PEACE WITH GOD

ETERNAL LIFE - THE INVALUABLE HERITAGE OF ALL SAINTS - Nuggets from John 17:2

ETERNAL LIFE - THE INVALUABLE HERITAGE OF ALL SAINTS
(Nuggets from John 17:2)

God gave His son Jesus Christ a name ABOVE EVERY NAME, and His AUTHORITY is SUPREME! He's not just a Savior; He's the One with power over ALL flesh – governments, systems, circumstances, and even the enemy! 

It is His exclusive right to give ETERNAL LIFE to all who've been given to Him by the Father, those who acknowledge His SUPREMACY, receive Him into their lives as the only Lord and Personal Savior, live righteously and die in HOLINESS or live in HOLINESS till the rapture.

We are taught that our glorifying God is needed as an evidence of our interest in Christ, through whom eternal life is God's free gift.

You need to understand what exactly is God's will regarding your salvation.

Have you ever doubted whether you are saved? Because you are not sure of the consequences of your actions or your level of faith?

Or do you doubt if God wants everyone to be saved? That there's a group of people who are included and another group that is left out?

Fortunately, the Bible is very clear on this:

"The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is long-suffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance."  - 2 Peter 3:9

So, it says that God doesn't want anyone to perish. He wants everyone to repent and come to the knowledge of the TRUTH.

To make this possible, He made an invaluable provision for humanity, not wanting anyone to perish ultimately.

He sent his only begotten Son so our sins would be paid for. As a result, we can now claim our salvation. Jesus did not come to judge but to save the world through His death and resurrection (John 3:17).

God is a merciful God, such that ENDURES FOREVER. His will for your salvation is not based on how you behave, or in paying for your bad deeds first before your salvation comes (again); No, MERCY IS ONE OF HIS ATTRIBUTES and he wants to give you a way out through the blood of his Son so that you will not be lost.

So you can see that it is more than certain that it is God's will for all to be saved, including you. You don't have to do anything for that except repent and accept Jesus as your Savior. But that is not all.

John 3:16-17 says that God wants everyone to repent and receive eternal life. That eternal life is more than it seems.

What is eternal life?

Jesus says in John 3:16, "For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life."

Eternal life means much more than continuing to live after death and never ceasing to exist.

The truth is that human beings are eternal beings. When we die physically, our soul and spirit will simply live on (Ecclesiastes 12:7). This means that everyone is entitled to an ENDLESS ETERNITY by virtue of the IMMORTALITY OF THE HUMAN SOUL AND SPIRIT, so whether you're saved or not, ETERNITY IS A FINAL DESTINATION but what matters is ON WHAT SIDE OF ETERNITY WOULD YOU BE?

Everyone, believer or unbeliever, continues to live forever.

However, the question is: 
Where will you spend ETERNITY? 
In the presence of God - HEAVEN?
or in the darkest darkness where God has reserved for all REBELS (satan, ⅓ of the fallen angels and all humans who fail to reconcile with God and die in sin, neglecting His offer of salvation - HELL FIRE and eventually THE LAKE OF FIRE?

You can be forgiven of all your sins, and you can be saved for eternity, but that is not the only purpose for which God gave his only begotten Son.

Jesus came so that you may have eternal life: a life in which you know God intimately and personally. He wants to be your Father, and make you His son or daughter 
(2 Corinthians 6:18).

God wants you to know Him as a loving and merciful Father. Someone you can trust. One you can always count on and who will never abandon you.

A Father who never gets angry with you, does not condemn or reject you, but always believes in you. 

One whose unconditional love is the reason you are not condemned or doomed for life.

ETERNAL LIFE in this context is HOLISTIC. You know God experientially, you accept His son, Jesus Christ into your life as your Lord and personal savior, and you have CONSTANT FELLOWSHIP with the Holy Spirit here in this world and remain in communion with Him till death or rapture, when you will eventually UNITE WITH HIM FOREVER AND EVER, WORLD WITHOUT END.

TO LIVE ETERNALLY WITH GOD SHOULD BE YOUR UTMOST PRIORITY AND DRIVING FORCE TO PROPEL YOU TO MAINTAIN A DAILY CULTURE OF HOLINESS FOR THE REST OF YOUR PILGRIMAGE.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE
DAY 354 OF 365🔥

📹 ETERNAL LIFE - THE INVALUABLE HERITAGE OF ALL SAINTS

YOUR SAFETY IS GUARANTEED IN CHRIST - Nuggets from Isaiah 54:17

YOUR SAFETY IS GUARANTEED IN CHRIST
(Nuggets from Isaiah 54:17)

Prophet Isaiah declared words that highlight the unshakable protection every TRUE CHILD OF GOD is entitled to, reminding us that we're more than conquerors in Christ, a promise and standing provision that has been in place by virtue of the sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ on the cross of Calvary.

We're living in a world where opposition is real, but God's promise is clearer: NO weapon, NO strategy, NO tactic, and NO voice can stand against us when we're in rooted in Christ. We're not fighting for victory; we're fighting from a PLACE of VICTORY! 

This promise of protection from God is SACROSANCT. God is our fortress in turbulent times - our SAFE HAVEN, our ANCHOR, our GUARD. We're empowered to walk in dominion and we're equipped with Divine power to overcome every obstacle! 

This promise is a heritage that every true child of God should be confident of, that God will protect you from your adversaries.

When the weapons of war do not prosper there are tongues that rise in judgment. This shows that the devil would stop at nothing to deploy any tool at his disposal to ensure that he runs you down as a child of God, but God's promises remain sure; all the plans of the enemies will amount to NOTHING, a total waste, an effort in futility.

The tongues that rise in judgment are those that plot to accuse God's genuine children falsely through and slanders and calumnies in a bid to make them odious and obnoxious in the sight of men, thus, hampering the gospel. God promises that such tongues will be condemned and all their evil plots will not see the light of day.

Apostle Peter writing to the church then and by extension to the church of this present dispensation, made a very striking point in 1 Peter 2:15,
"For it is God's will and intention that by doing right, your good and honest lives should silence (muzzle, gag) the ignorant charges and ill-informed criticisms of foolish persons."

This is God's will, that even as He does His lot by protecting you as a child of God, you must not fail to also do your part by doing the little things expected of you. You must avoid being so careless and indifferent about the kind of people you surround yourself with.

God's desire is that when you do what is right, your honest life should silence all gainsayers and by so doing, help you forestall any evil agenda they have.

Rejoice therefore, all ye FAITHFULS, because YOUR PROTECTION IS GUARANTEED BY THE LORD.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE 
DAY 353 OF 365 🔥

📹 YOUR SAFETY IS GUARANTEED IN CHRIST

ETERNAL LIFE IN HIM - Nuggets from 1 JOHN 5:11

ETERNAL LIFE IN HIM
(Nuggets from 1st John 5:11)

The writer of declares in 1 John 5:11, "And this is the record that God hath given to us eternal life, and this life is in his Son."

This unlocks the treasure of eternal life, a gift that's been sealed and secured for us through Jesus Christ, giving us unshakable assurance of our salvation.

Eternal life is not just a future promise, but a PRESENT reality that's been activated in us through Jesus' finished work. It's a life that's infused with God's presence, guided by His Spirit, and empowered by His word.

This life is the very essence of our new identity in Christ, and it's the anchor that holds us steady in life storms. Through eternal life, we're empowered to walk in obedience, surrender, and trust in God's sovereignty.

Eternal life is knowing God, experiencing His love, and waking in fellowship with Him. As we grow in our understanding of this gift, we'll become more like Christ, reflecting His glory and radiating His love.

This shines a spotlight on the incredible gift of eternal life that God has given us through Jesus Christ, a gift that's available to all who put their faith in Him.

Having known the importance of this eternal life, Let's fix our eyes on Jesus, the source of our eternal life, and allow His word to anchor us in the light of His presence, and let's live a life that's worthy of His calling.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE 
DAY 352 OF 365 🔥

📹 ETERNAL LIFE IN HIM 

THE ONLY NAME: UNIQUE AND SUPREME - Nuggets from Acts 4:12

THE ONLY NAME: UNIQUE AND SUPREME
(Nuggets from Acts 4:12)

Apostle Paul declares in Acts 4:12, "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved."

This verse shines a spotlight on the exclusivity and supremacy of Jesus Christ, the only name that brings salvation to humanity.

It reveals the incredible power and authority of Jesus' name, the one  name that brings  salvation, healing, and deliverance to all who call upon it. 

The name of Jesus is not just a title or a label, but a DECLARATION of His Divine nature and power. It's a name that's above EVERY OTHER NAME, and it's the key to unlocking God's presence and promises in our lives.
Through His names, we're given access to God's throne, and we're empowered to live a life that's characterized by His love, joy, and peace.
          
The Bible says in Philippians 2:9-10, "Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him,  and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth."
Every knee must bow to the NAME of Jesus, and every tongue will confess that He's Lord.

This highlights the unparalleled significance of the name of Jesus.
It stands alone as a sole MEDIATOR between God and man, offering forgiveness, redemption,and new life to all who call upon His name. 

As we grow in our understanding of the Name of Jesus and its uniqueness, We'll be a beacon of hope in a world that's searching for answers, and we'll proclaim His name with BOLDNESS and CONVICTION.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE 
DAY 351 OF 365 🔥

📹 THE ONLY NAME: UNIQUE AND SUPREME 

A BETTER HOPE - Nuggets from Hebrews 7:19

A BETTER HOPE
(Nuggets from Hebrews 7:19)

The writer of Hebrews declares in Hebrews 7:19, "For the law made nothing perfect, but the bringing in of a better hope did; by the which we draw nigh unto God." This verse shines a spotlight on the unshakeable hope we have in Jesus Christ, a hope that anchors us in the midst of life's uncertainties, a hope that enables us to draw near to God with CONFIDENCE and BOLDNESS.

This hope is rooted in Jesus' finished work on the cross, where He paid the price from our sins, and gave us a new life in Him. Through this hope, we're empowered to live a life that's pleasing to God, walking in obedience, and surrender to His word.

Jesus has inaugurated a new and living way, giving us direct access to God's presence, and empowering us to live a life that's unshaken and unmoved by the world's turbulence. This hope is not a fragile or fleeting emotion, but a ROCK-SOLID foundation that undergirds our existence.

As we stand on the promises of God's Word, we're reminded that our worthiness isn't based on our own merits, but one Jesus' finished work on the cross. We can approach God with confidence knowing that  we're accepted and loved by Him. 

In Him, we have boldness and access with confidence by the Faith of Him. We have a newfound confidence in our relationship with God.

As we grow in our understanding of this better hope, we'll become more like Christ, and our lives will reflect His glory, making us a beacon of hope in a world that's increasingly dark.

Let's fix our eyes on Jesus, the source of our hope, and allow His Word to anchor us in the midst of life's storms.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE 

DAY 350 OF 365🔥 

📹 A BETTER HOPE

HOW IS YOUR INWARD PART? - Nuggets from Psalm 51:6

HOW IS YOUR INWARD PART?
(Nuggets from Psalm 51:6)

"Thou desirest truth in the inward parts"... , 

God would have you remain honest, sincere, and true to your profession as a GENUINE CHILD OF HIS.

Everyone wants to be seen and known as a SAINT in public; no one wants to be faulted, indicted or seen from a perspective that would tamper with their ego. 

Originality is far-fetched in our world today because everyone wants to please fellow mortals but insignificant attention is paid to PLEASING GOD and doing His will. 

God desires TRUTH in the inward parts, DEEP DOWN IN YOUR HEART. 
Your heart is hidden from the eyes of mortals but OPEN AND NAKED before the eyes of God. 

You can't hide anything from Him. 

God desires that every man be truthful and pure in heart. This is why He keeps extending His hands of mercy to mankind, giving every sinner equal opportunity and countless chances to repent and live RIGHTEOUSLY. 

Unfortunately, this offer keeps getting spurned by man. 

This was David's cry for MERCY. He wept sore and cried out to God for thorough cleansing after he realized the magnitude of his sins - adultery and murder, which led to his troubles as King of Israel. 

God's will is that all men be saved, purified, and qualified to be with Him in Heaven at last. 

However, whilst still here on earth, He wants you to hear from Him, speak with Him, and commune with Him. 

What kind of relationship do you want to build with God before you eventually get to see Him in Heaven?

It all begins in the Altar of your Heart - His supposed habitation. 

God cannot condone any form of impurity, and this is why He demands HOLINESS and PURITY OF HEART because SIN REPELS HIM. 

He is of PURER eyes that He CANNOT BEHOLD INIQUITY. 

Now that you've known this, what is  your resolve?

David did the needful, and you should too.

In verse 7, he prayed:
"Purge me with hyssop, and I shall be clean. Wash me, and I shall be whither than snow."

This is the heart cry of every SINCERE PERSON who acknowledges that God is OMNIPRESENT AND OMNISCIENT, the God who knows ALL THINGS but seen and unseen, secret and open. 

To sustain and solidify His relationship with God, David prayed further in verse 10:

"Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me."

You can take this bold step today and turn deaf ears to every voice beckoning on you to remain adamant in HYPOCRISY.

ACKNOWLEDGE your shortcomings, do away with every form of PRETENTIOUS LIFESTYLE, SURRENDER WHOLLY to Him, and let Him purge you and wash away every nasty and filthy nature. 

He can bridle that lying tongue and purify it with hot coal like He did to Isaiah; 

He can wash you clean, purge and pardon you like he did to the woman who was caught in the act of adultery. 

He can deliver you from every demonic oppression like He did to Mary Magdalene. 

He can deliver you from every ADDICTION - LUST, MASTURBATION, LESBIANISM, HOMOSEXUALITY, BESTIALITY and all forms of FETISH acts, if only you can willingly submit to Him.

He can save you from GREED like He did to Zacchaeus; 

God can take away every anger, malice, hatred, unforgiveness, envy, jealousy and other intrinsic evil. 

This is when you can boldly say that God has made you to know WISDOM in your hidden part.

Wisdom is realizing that God sees every action your take and every move you make; knowing that He reads your mind and sees every thought you harbor and entertain, whether GOOD or BAD, and being careful, fashioning your life to please God not just outwardly (in public spaces) but most importantly in the inward and hidden parts. 
 

THE FEAR OF GOD IS THE BEGINNING OF WISDOM.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE
 DAY 349 OF 365🔥

📹 HOW IS YOUR INWARD PART? 

GOD HEARS WHEN THE SINCERE CALLS - Nuggets from Psalm 145:18

GOD HEARS WHEN THE SINCERE CALLS
(Nuggets from Psalm 145:18) 

Your approach to God matters a lot, and the state of the heart with which you come to Him is very important too. We neglect these facts most times and conclude that God doesn't hear us or He isn't quick to answer whenever we call.

The approach: Firstly, the scripture makes us understand that God answers and is near to all who call on Him, to everyone who recognizes His presence, importance, authority, and magnificence. So there should be recognition and veneration for the Lord; it should be the first step we take while seeking Him.

God only hears when you call on Him with a SINCERE HEART, a heart that has no guile, void of sin. 

Secondly, your sincerity is not negotiable. Coming to God without any form of hypocrisy or pretense is what will guarantee His undivided attention towards you. 

What's the point trying to be deceptive when the God you're coming to sees, hears, and knows every single detail about your life? He's aware of every secret, all sins, indulgence, weakness, troubles of life, battles, pain, and reproach.

Let this be a reminder that God hears everyone who comes to Him with a sincere heart. He says, "I am near."

Just a little while, and you won't find the troubles anymore. He is ever close and able to change every narrative of yours.

Seek the Lord with all your heart and soul, and you will find Him.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE
DAY 348 OF 365 🔥

📹 GOD HEARS WHEN THE SINCERE CALLS 

ABIDE IN ME - Nuggets from John 15:4

ABIDE IN ME
(Nuggets from John 15:4)

"Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, except it abide in the vine; no more can ye, except ye abide in me."

In order to prove your FAITHFULNESS, COMMITMENT and remain PRODUCTIVE/FRUITFUL, you must abide in Christ; this consolidates your union with Christ. 

Every TRUE DISCIPLE of Christ constantly depends on Him to supply all needs, always seeing God as his/her ONLY SOURCE. 

The first step is to ABIDE IN CHRIST; if you don't abide in Him, He cannot abide in you. Jesus said "Abide in me and I in you..." 
Why is it so? 

See yourself as a BRANCH, and Jesus as the TREE. 
The TREE does not have to abide in the BRANCH, but the BRANCH must abide in the TREE if it must SURVIVE. 
No BRANCH can bear fruits without being connected to the TREE. 

The tree supplies the branch with water and nutrients through specific transport systems that make FRUITION possible. 

For a better understanding, an Agricultural Analogy would suffice. 

The XYLEM is the route through which WATER and DISSOLVED MINERALS from the roots travel to the trunk and then the branches and leaves, while the PHLOEM is the route through which SUGARS (required for Energy for growth and produced in the leaves during Photosynthesis) are transported to the trunk, branches and leaves. 

It therefore follows that IF AS A BRANCH, YOU ARE NOT CONNECTED TO THE TREE, YOU CANNOT BE FRUITFUL. 

Just as the BRANCH depends on the tree for its constant supply of nutrients, water, minerals and sugar needed for a successful PRODUCTION and FRUITION, every TRUE CHILD OF GOD MUST DEPEND ON JESUS FOR SURVIVAL AND PRODUCTIVITY. 

If you separate from CHRIST, you cannot be fruitful. 

Depending on Jesus for all your physical, spiritual, mental, marital, emotional and material needs is a sure way to GUARANTEE your FRUITFULNESS in this life and a place with Him in ETERNITY. 

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE
DAY 347 OF 365 🔥

📹 ABIDE IN ME 

REBORN TO LIVE - Nuggets from 1 Peter 2:23

REBORN TO LIVE
(Nuggets from 1Peter 1:23)

This is the INCREDIBLE TRUTH that our new birth is ROOTED in God's Word, which is alive and enduring. It's the INCORRUPTIBLE seed that takes root in our hearts, bringing forth new life and TRANSFORMATION. The Word of God is the source of our rebirth, and it's the key to our ongoing TRANSFORMATION and GROWTH.

The Word of God is not just a means of our rebirth, but also the means of our NOURISHMENT and GROWTH. Just as a newborn baby needs milk to grow, we need God's Word to grow in our FAITH and UNDERSTANDING of Him.
 The Psalmist wrote in Psalm 119:105, "Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path." God's Word ILLUMINATES our path, guiding us through life's challenges and uncertainties.

As we immerse ourselves in God's Word, we're reminded that our rebirth is not just about escaping the world's corruption, but about living a life that's pleasing to God. We're called to live a life of holiness, as 1 Peter 1:15-16 says, "But as he which hath called you is holy, so be ye holy in all manner of conversation; Because it is written, Be ye holy; for I am holy."

Our rebirth is a call to a life of OBEDIENCE, and ABSOLUTE TRUST in God's Word. As we abide in God's Word, we're empowered to live a life that's characterized by LOVE, JOY, PEACE, and RIGHTEOUSNESS. We're transformed into the image of Christ, and our lives become a reflection of His GLORY.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE 
DAY 346 OF 365🔥

📹 REBORN TO LIVE 

FAITH IS KINDLED: UNLOCKING THE POWER OF GOD'S WORD - Nuggets from Romans 10:17

FAITH IS KINDLED: UNLOCKING THE POWER OF GOD'S WORD
(Nuggets from Romans 10:17)

FAITH doesn't magically appear; it's ignited and fueled by hearing the Word of God, as Romans 10:17 says, "So then Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." 

Receiving God's Word is like adding fuel to the fire - it sparks and grows faith. This verse highlights the importance of IMMERSING ourselves in Scripture, as it's the catalyst for building and strengthening our faith. It's a powerful reminder that faith isn't just a feeling or a decision, but a RESPONSE to the LIVING and ACTIVE Word of God.

The more we hear and internalize God's Word, the more our faith is stirred and grows. it's a dynamic process, and God's word is the seed that GERMINATES and FLOURISHES into unwavering trust and confidence in Him. 

The Bible is not just a book of instructions or a historical account; it's the very VOICE of God speaking to our hearts, calling us to TRUST and OBEY. 
As we dive into God's Word, our faith is kindled and we begin to see the world through the lens of God's goodness and sovereignty.

But how does this happen? The answer lies in the nature of God's Word itself. The Bible says in Hebrews 4:12, "For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart."

God's Word is ALIVE and ACTIVE, penetrating the deepest recesses of our hearts and minds, revealing areas that need transformation and pointing us to the truth.

As we hear and respond to God's Word, our faith GROWS, and we're EMPOWERED to live out our beliefs. We're reminded that faith is not a one-time event, but a LIFELONG JOURNEY of trusting and obeying God. It's a process of growth, and God's Word is the catalyst that propels us forward.
 

CULTIVATE A DEEPER LOVE FOR GOD'S WORD, IMMERSING OURSELVES IN SCRIPTURE AND ALLOWING IT TO FUEL OUR FAITH; AS WE DO, WE'LL EXPERIENCE THE TRANSFORMATIVE POWER OF GOD'S WORD IN OUR LIVES.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE 
DAY 345 OF 365🔥

📹 FAITH IS KINDLED: UNLOCKING THE POWER OF GOD'S WORD

THE WISE GROW WISER - Nuggets from Proverbs 9:9

THE WISE GROW WISER
(Nuggets from Proverbs 9:9)

WISDOM is not static in nature; it grows and generates more WISDOM. 

Verse 10a highlights the true source and origin of this WISDOM:
 "The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom:"

This shows clearly that the WISE in our context are THOSE WHO FEAR THE LORD, THE RIGHTEOUS, THOSE WHO ABHOR SIN.

The WISE/RIGHTEOUS are those who RECEIVE INSTRUCTION WITH HUMILITY and GRATITUDE, and turn it into PROGRESSIVE GROWTH.

WISDOM has no COMPLETION because it is not a DESTINATION but a LIFE-LONG JOURNEY.

WISDOM is dynamic in nature and you can never have it all at once.
A genuinely wise person is characterized by HUMILITY and an eagerness to LEARN even the minutest details irrespective of who the teacher is.

To the WISE, age is nothing. They are willing to learn from even children.

WISDOM is also displayed in the willingness of an individual to accept CORRECTION and REBUKE. You won't see a WISE PERSON shifting blame or justifying their actions even when they are right or innocent.
The WISE person sees every REBUKE or SCOLDING as a profitable opportunity to GROW

This is the opposite of PRIDE. 
A PROUD person is self-sufficient and will NEVER see the need to LEARN, IMPROVE, or GET BETTER.
Proud people feel they have arrived at their destination already and there's nothing else you tcan ell them that would be more relevant than what they know; unfortunately, the little they think know can be summed up as FOLLY.

"he will be yet wiser"... 
This shows that GROWTH is INEVITABLE for anyone who is oriented toward wisdom. Their appetite and quest for learning is INSATIABLE. 

"Teach the righteous".. 
The Psalmist wrote in Psalm 119 verse 33:
" Teach me, O LORD, the way of thy statutes; And I shall keep it unto the end."

 The righteous are ALWAYS APT TO LEARN because they are TEACHABLE. 

Most importantly, they always want to know God's statutes, not for the sake of HEAD KNOWLEDGE, but for APPLICATION in real-life situations. 

This desire to KNOW MORE OF GOD makes them to increase in learning and they never get bored or tired of hearing about God. 
 

CHOOSE THE PATH OF WISDOM AND YOU WILL EXPERIENCE THE GROWTH IN ALL FACETS OF LIFE AND ULTIMATELY DWELL WITH GOD IN ETERNITY.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE
DAY 344 OF 365🔥

📹 THE WISE GROW WISER

THE SPIRIT OF POWER, LOVE AND A SOUND MIND - Nuggets from 2 Timothy 1:7

THE SPIRIT OF POWER, LOVE AND A SOUND MIND
(Nuggets from 2 Timothy 1:7) 

"For God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind."

Apostle Paul was admonishing young Timothy on having the right disposition of the mind and do away with FEAR.

Apostle Paul's message to Timothy was to give him reassurance and make him firm amidst the challenges he faced in his ministry. 

Timothy was feeling afraid and discouraged due to (but not limited to) some of these reasons:

1). PERSECUTION AND OPPOSITION PREVALENT IN THE EARLY CHURCH: 

The early church faced stiff opposition and the ones saddled with the responsibility of leading them faced hostility, persecution, and threats from both religious authorities and political powers. 
This opposition led to the Martyrdom of some of them and Timothy, as a young leader in the church, may have been intimidated by some of these threats.

2). TIMOTHY WAS JUST A YOUTH AND INEXPERIENCED TOO:

Timothy was relatively young compared to other Apostles at the time of this epistle. Apostle Paul referred to Timothy as “his son in the faith.” (1 Timothy 1:2).

This was not just about Timothy being a proselyte or new convert, but because he was still a young adult, which suggests that Timothy lacked confidence because of his age and possibly limited experience.

3). RESPONSIBILITIES IN THE MINISTRY WERE OVERWHELMING:

Apostle Paul entrusted Timothy with important tasks like overseeing churches, correcting false teachings, and encouraging believers with the scriptures (2 Timothy 1:6-7). 
Such responsibilities can be daunting, especially amid opposition and struggle.

4). TIMOTHY WAS UNDER PRESSURE TO LIVE UP TO APOSTLE PAUL'S EXPECTATIONS:

As a mentee of Apostle Paul, seeing the exploits and grace by which his mentor operated in his mission work, Timothy was under a lot of pressure to meet up with the high spiritual and leadership standards Paul set, which could lead to fear or self-doubt.

It was natural for Timothy to have felt this way and Apostle Paul noticed it and quickly sent a letter to him, encouraging him to brace up.

In verse 6, Apostle Paul told young Timothy:
 

"Wherefore I put thee in remembrance that thou stir up the gift of God, which is in thee by the putting on of my hands."

He exhorted Timothy to stir up the gift of God that was in him, as fire under the embers. The GIFTS that God had given him were to be utilized and not to remain latent. 

The GIFTS needed to be stirred up and put to use to qualify him for the work of an EVANGELIST.

In the early church, these extraordinary GIFTS of the HOLY SPIRIT were conferred on Timothy (and others) by the laying of hands Apostle's hands (Peter, John and Paul).

By stirring up, Apostle Paul meant that Timothy needed to exercise them and increase them. The gifts he had needed to birth other gifts too.

"To him that hath shall be given," Matthew 25:29. He must take advantage of all opportunities at his disposal to use these gifts.

Paul knew that FEAR would be an OBSTACLE to Timothy that would prevent him from maximizing and harnessing the gifts, hence his admonition in verse 7. 

"God hath not given us the spirit of fear,". It was FEAR that made the WICKED and SLOTHFUL servant to bury the talent his master gave him instead of trading with it.
Matthew 25:25. 

It doesn't matter the dangers you meet on your way. Be bold and be of good courage, because like Timothy, God has given you the spirit of BOLDNESS.

You weren't called to be a coward, and the Holy Spirit does not accommodate any form of timidity.
It follows therefore that if you have the Holy Spirit in you, fear should have no place in your life.

God has given you the SPIRIT OF POWER, to face any challenge, difficulty or opposition on your way headlong, knowing that the Holy Spirit fortifies you against any form of reproach and persecution.

This POWER also strengthens you to resist satan's temptations, endure hardness as a good soldier of Christ, oppose false teachers, and to do the will and work of God.

God has given you the SPIRIT OF LOVE, empowering you to LOVE GOD, LOVE HIS SON, JESUS CHRIST, and HIS CHURCH; this LOVE is the FRUIT of the Holy Spirit; and those who have it do not seek their own comfort or credit, but they do all to the GLORY OF GOD.

God has given you the SPIRIT OF A SOUND MIND, to always CONDUCT YOURSELF CIRCUMSPECTLY, BE SOBER, TEMPERATE, PURE IN HEART and MAINTAIN A HOLY LIFE every day.

IN ALL YOUR GETTING IN THIS LIFE, MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE SPIRIT OF GOD IN YOU FOR AN OPTIMAL AND VICTORIOUS LIFE IN CHRIST.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE 
DAY 343 OF 365🔥

📹 THE SPIRIT OF POWER, LOVE AND A SOUND MIND  

THE GOOD SOIL - Nuggets from Matthew 13:23

THE GOOD SOIL
(Nuggets from Matthew 13:23)

"But he that received seed into the good ground is he that heareth the word, and understandeth it; which also beareth fruit, and bringeth forth, some an hundredfold, some sixty, some thirty."

Culled from the PARABLE OF THE SOWER, Jesus used an agricultural phenomenon to pass a very important message on what becomes of God’s word when it meets a human heart?

In this verse Jesus reveals that hearing the message is ONLY the beginning; the true measure is FRUITFULNESS.

For a better understanding, let's take a look at the terms:

1. THE SEED FALLING ON THE GOOD SOIL:

This refers to “the word of God” that lands on a heart that is receptive and prepared.

2. THE GOOD SOIL:

 This refers to a heart made fertile by God’s grace, literally “beautiful/fine/excellent soil.” It is a heart that is humble, open, and teachable.

3. HEARS:

This refers to more than just hearing sound; it means to listen attentively and receptively with intentionality and readiness to apply what is being listened to.

4. UNDERSTANDS:

This means to comprehend, grasp, put the pieces together, gain insight. This is the decisive difference. It takes Divine illumination to UNDERSTAND God's word.

5. BEARS FRUIT:

This means to have visible evidence of the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life as a child of God, which will result in the manifestation of the FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT, making you obedient to God's words, reflecting in the good works you exhibit.

Though there are many that receive the grace of God, and the word of his grace, in vain, yet God has a remnant by whom it is received to good purpose for God's word shall not return empty, Isaiah 55:10,11. 

The main thing that distinguished this GOOD SOIL from the rest, was FRUITFULNESS. 

By this, TRUE CHRISTIANS are distinguished from HYPOCRITES, that they bring forth the fruits of righteousness. Such are disciples indeed, John 15:8. Jesus did not say that this good ground has no stones in it, or no thorns but there were none that prevailed to hinder its fruitfulness. Saints, in this world, are not perfectly free from the pollution in this world, but they are happily freed from the power of sin by having their hearts circumcised through SANCTIFICATION. 

The hearers represented by the GOOD SOIL are:

Intelligent hearers: They hear the word and understand it. They understand not only the sense and meaning of the word, but they personalize it and apply it in their daily lives. They understand it the same way a BUSINESSMAN understands his business and does not joke with it. God in his word deals with men as men, in a rational way, and gains possession of the will and affections by opening the eyes of understanding: whereas satan, who is a thief and a robber, comes in to devour and take away the seed that has been planted from the heart of the UNWARY CHRISTIAN.

Fruitful hearers: They are those who have a good understanding and bear fruits. They make good use of every information they receive in God's word. They are ACTIVE LISTENERS, not PASSIVE or INDIFFERENT.

You bear fruits when you practice the word of God you hear or read, when you fashion your life according to what you have heard in God's word, making you to conform to the image of Christ and align with God's principles and standards. Being a fruitful hearer means you do as you are taught.

It is evident in this scripture that not everyone bears fruits in the same measure, just the same way plants bear fruits in different measures; some a hundred-fold, some sixty, some thirty. 

Among fruitful Christians, some are more fruitful than others, but you should aim at the highest degree of FRUITFULNESS, to bring forth a hundred-fold, as Isaac's ground did (Genesis 26:12), abounding in the work of the Lord, John 15:8. 

If the SOIL IS GOOD, FRUIT IS RIGHT, HEART IS HONEST, those who bring forth but thirty-fold shall be graciously accepted by God, and it will be fruit abounding to their account.

Jesus Himself deliberately gave three different yields: 100, 60, and 30, all from the same kind of soil “THE GOOD SOIL”. This shows that all genuine believers are fruitful, but not all are equally fruitful. Matthew 13:23 teaches that the difference in quantity is not because some are “BAD SOIL” or FAKE CHRISTIANS; it is because, even among TRUE, REGENERATED, GENUINE believers, there are varying degrees of fruitfulness.

Some possible factors that could affect the yield in a believer leading to the different degrees or measures of FRUITFULNESS include but are not limited to:

• Different gifts, callings, and opportunities given by God - Romans 12:3-8; 1 Cor 12:4-11;
• Different degrees of abiding in Christ and the Word of God - John 15:4-5, 7-8
• Different measures of grace and faith - Romans 12:3
• Different levels of diligence, discipline, and obedience - 2 Peter 1:5-8
• Different sacrifices and suffering for the gospel (persecution can multiply fruit) - John 12:24
• Different seasons and spheres of influence (a local pastor vs. An Apostle). It matters a lot who plants the seed. If the planter does not know much about the seed, he or she would plant it casually and forget to do the necessary things needed for the seed to germinate.

An unenlightened preacher who lives in sin and is possessed with an evil spirit cannot make an impact that will yield any positive fruit as much as an enlightened preacher who is filled with the Holy Spirit and anointed. This is because you cannot give what you don't have.

The reason many Christians are underfed is because they do not have GOOD or QUALIFIED PREACHERS or TEACHERS to feed them with the word of God (SOW THE SEED) and most of them are not given the BALANCED DIET of God's word; they only hear PROSPERITY TEACHINGS but no one tells them about LIFE AFTER DEATH, ETERNITY, THE REALITY OF HEAVEN AND HELL, JUDGMENT DAY, etc. 

In summary, God wants every TRUE CHILD of His to BE A GOOD SOIL, and if where you are currently is keeping you malnourished, it is very okay to SWITCH CAMPS and look for a place where the word of God is preached without fear or favor, undiluted and unadulterated.

BE A GOOD SOIL, HEAR GOD'S WORD, RECEIVE IT,  UNDERSTAND IT, AND BRING FORTH BY BEARING FRUITS THAT WILL STAND THE TEST OF TIME.

This is HOLINESS CHALLENGE

DAY 342 OF 365🔥
📹 THE GOOD SOIL