Devotionals, First Ten Days of April
April 1st,2021
Therefore, since the promise of entering his rest still stands, let us be careful that none of you be found to have fallen short of it. For we also have had the good news proclaimed to us, just as they did; but the message they heard was of no value to them, because they did not share the faith of those who obeyed.
“Now we who have believed enter that rest, just as God has said, “So I declared on oath in my anger, ‘They shall never enter my rest.'” And yet his works have been finished since the creation of the world.
For somewhere he has spoken about the seventh day in these words: “On the seventh day God rested from all his works.” And again in the passage above he says, “They shall never enter my rest.” Therefore since it still remains for some to enter that rest, and since those who formerly had the good news proclaimed to them did not go in because of their disobedience. God again set a certain day, calling it “Today.” This he did when a long time later he spoke through David, as in the passage already quoted: “Today, if you hear his voice, do not harden your hearts.” For if Joshua had given them rest, God would not have spoken later about another day. 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. Let us, therefore, make every effort to enter that rest, so that no one will perish by following their example of disobedience. Hebrews 4:1-11.
This is Day 46 that we are putting on hold our devotional “Epistle To The Colossians.” The plan for the devotional going forward was posted in the March 9th devotional.
Prayer: Father God, we thank you for making us the beneficiaries of both the works of creation and your work of redemption (Psalms 8:4-6; Genesis 1:26-28; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; 1 John 2:2). All things that you created were beautiful indeed but we failed our assignment to rule over them and manage them in a way that displays your glory because of sinning against you (Genesis 1:31; Psalms 139:14; Ecclesiastes 3:11; Job 5:9; Romans 3:23). We thank you for sending your beloved Son, Jesus, to redeem us, Father (Galatians 4:4; Romans 6:23; John 3:16; Romans 5:10; Galatians 1:4; 2 Corinthians 9:15). As we remember His cry “It is finished!” while on the cross, bleeding for our sins, we want to thank you for bringing us into this rest (John 19:30). We thank you that our salvation is not by works and we can enter rest knowing that His work is perfect and we are forever righteous because of that work. We have nothing to boast in because we couldn’t achieve this salvation, Father, but we boast in your Son, Jesus Christ, in His death and resurrection ( Deuteronomy 32:4; Romans 5:1; John 6:28-29; Ephesians 2:8-9; Romans 5:17; Hebrews 10:14; 1 Corinthians 1:28-31). He was forsaken so that we would be accepted. He was crushed so that we may be healed. He was thirsty so that we would have the living waters to drink. He drank bitter vinegar so that we would drink the sweet wine of the Spirit. He bowed His head on the cursed tree so that we would lift our hands before your glorious throne. Our boast is in His magnificent work of redemption (Matthew 27:46; Ephesians 1:5-7; 1 John 2:12; Isaiah 53:4-5; John 4:14; John 7:38; Acts 2:13-17; 1 Peter 2:3; Romans 11:33). Lord, we have our eyes and ears open to what your Holy Spirit is showing and saying to us so that we can do those works that you have prepared for us beforehand. Awaken all the saints around the world to your perfect purpose because your plan is to give them a hope and a future by walking in those works you prepared in eternity (Ephesians 2:10; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Jeremiah 29:11;Jeremiah 33:3; Psalms 94:9; Isaiah 65:24; Numbers 14:28; Matthew 11:15; Revelation 2:7; Revelation 3:13,22; Psalms 40:6; Hebrews 10:7; John 5:19; John 8:29; Isaiah 50:5; Philippians 2:12-13; Romans 13:11; Romans 8:14; Psalms 32:8) . We want to serve you out of rest; with our activities, ministries, businesses, jobs, education, relationships, partnerships, trips, and all projects we are involved in flowing from the revelation that you give us about our calling in your kingdom and the impact that you want us to have in our appointed times in history (Acts 17:26; Acts 15:18; Psalms 33:11; Proverbs 21:30; John 16:13-14; 1 Corinthians 12:3-11; 1 Corinthians 14:1; Isaiah 48:3; Jeremiah 1:5; Psalms 139:16; Malachi 3:16; 1 Thessalonians 1:3; Romans 15:4; Hebrews 6:10; Hebrews 13:20-21). We pray that you equip us for every good work and may our work that flows from your rest please you and bring you glory, Lord. In the name of our precious Redeemer, Jesus, we pray. Amen !
April 2nd,2021
For Jews request a sign, and Greeks seek after wisdom; but we preach Christ crucified, to the Jews a stumblingblock and to the Greeks foolishness, but to those who are called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God. Because the foolishness of God is wiser than men, and the weakness of God is stronger than men. 1 Corinthians 1:22-25
This is Day 47 that we are putting on hold our devotional “Epistle To The Colossians.” The plan for the devotional going forward was posted in the March 9th devotional.
Prayer: Father God, we thank you for the invitation to seek your face and your strength, and to seek your presence continually (1 Chronicles 16:11; Psalms 105:4; Psalms 63:1-2; Psalms 27:8; Zephaniah 2:3). We thank you for your power we have received by seeking you. Lord, open our eyes to understand what seeking your face and strength means so that we will not approach your throne with the vain imaginations of the world (Ecclesiastes 5:1-2; 2 Corinthians 10:5; Ephesians 1:17-23; 2 Corinthians 4:4; Psalms 96:9; Luke 23:48-49; Matthew 27:3-4; John 12:36-40). Lord, we do not seek you for a sign like Jews, because we believe the sign of Jonas, that Jesus died for our sins, was buried, and on the third day rose from the dead. We do not seek you for worldly wisdom like Greeks, to make us fashioned in the image of the world and its pursuits of carnal wisdom, with the resulting acquisition of wealth and power. Neither do we want to seek you like false disciples who betrayed our Lord and crucified Him (Matthew 12:38-41; John 2:16-19;1 Corinthians 15:3-4; Isaiah 7:11-14; Matthew 27:50-54; John 20:24-28; 2 Corinthians 5:7; 1 Timothy 6:5-14; 1 Timothy 4:8-9; Matthew 6:32-33; John 18:4-8; 2 Timothy 4:10-Colossians 4:14; Hebrews 6:6; 1 John 2:15-17; Numbers 15:39; Psalms 4:2; Psalms 10:4; Ecclesiastes 7:25; Proverbs 8:10-12; Isaiah 31:1; Ezekiel 28:5-7; Luke 16:1-8; Romans 12:2). We want to seek you like John who stood by the cross when everyone deserted Jesus. We want to cling to the cross that gave us the life we didn’t deserve when death was our sentence. We want to be like Paul and Padre Pio, carrying the effects of the cross and resurrection with us (John 19:25-28; Luke 14:25-27; Mark 8:34-38; 2 Corinthians 11:24; Galatians 6:17; John 12:24; Luke 23:26; Luke 22:19; Hebrews 13:11-15; Philippians 3: 7-10). We pray that you give us the strength to follow Jesus all the way. We pray that the testimony that comes from that will defeat Satan. Help us uncover the mysteries of the cross and its power to break chains. Anoint us to preach on the blood of Jesus with conviction and cleansing of sinners (John 16:7-11; Acts 2:36-38; Acts 5:28; Exodus 12:13; Hebrews 9:14,22; Revelation 12:11; Acts 20:28;Matthew 26:28; 1 Peter 1:18-19; Hebrews 10:19-23; 1 Corinthians 7:23-25; Colossians 2:15; 2 Corinthians 5:14; Genesis 22:1-17; James 2:21; Hebrews 12:2). May your Spirit help us bring the acceptable sacrifice of a humble and broken heart (Isaiah 49:16; Isaiah 53:3-5; Isaiah 57:15; Isaiah 66:2; Genesis 41:9-13; Romans 9:15; Luke 18:9-14; Luke 22:61-62; Psalms 51:17; John 3:14-16; Numbers 21:1-9; John 19:30). As the truth of your Gospel and the cross is proclaimed, we ask that you turn sinners from darkness to light, from the power of Satan to the kingdom of Christ (John 3:19; Matthew 12:28-29; Acts 26:18; Colossians 1:13-14). Give us understanding in your truth so that we can delight in the things you call wisdom, even though they may be considered foolishness by the world, and stay away from worldly wisdom that is considered foolishness in your presence (Luke 16:14-16; Colossians 2:3; Exodus 31:3; Genesis 39:1-6; 1 Kings 3:28; 1 Kings 4:29-34; Luke 11:31; Matthew 6:28-29; 2 Corinthians 8:9; Isaiah 5:20; Isaiah 55:8-9; 2 Corinthians 10:4). Deliver us from evil and Satan’s schemes. In the merciful name of Jesus, we pray. Amen!
April 3rd,2021
Now behold, two of them were traveling that same day to a village called Emmaus, which was seven miles from Jerusalem. And they talked together of all these things which had happened. So it was, while they conversed and reasoned, that Jesus Himself drew near and went with them. But their eyes were restrained, so that they did not know Him. And He said to them, “What kind of conversation is this that you have with one another as you walk and are sad?” Then the one whose name was Cleopas answered and said to Him, “Are You the only stranger in Jerusalem, and have You not known the things which happened there in these days?” And He said to them, “What things?” So they said to Him, “The things concerning Jesus of Nazareth, who was a Prophet mighty in deed and word before God and all the people, and how the chief priests and our rulers delivered Him to be condemned to death, and crucified Him. But we were hoping that it was He who was going to redeem Israel. Indeed, besides all this, today is the third day since these things happened. Yes, and certain women of our company, who arrived at the tomb early, astonished us. When they did not find His body, they came saying that they had also seen a vision of angels who said He was alive. And certain of those who were with us went to the tomb and found it just as the women had said; but Him they did not see.”
Then He said to them, “O foolish ones, and slow of heart to believe in all that the prophets have spoken! Ought not the Christ to have suffered these things and to enter into His glory?”
And beginning at Moses and all the Prophets, He expounded to them in all the Scriptures the things concerning Himself. Then they drew near to the village where they were going, and He indicated that He would have gone farther. But they constrained Him, saying, “Abide with us, for it is toward evening, and the day is far spent.” And He went in to stay with them. Now it came to pass, as He sat at the table with them, that He took bread, blessed and broke it, and gave it to them. Then their eyes were opened and they knew Him; and He vanished from their sight. And they said to one another, “Did not our heart burn within us while He talked with us on the road, and while He opened the Scriptures to us?” So they rose up that very hour and returned to Jerusalem, and found the eleven and those who were with them gathered together, saying, “The Lord is risen indeed, and has appeared to Simon!” And they told about the things that had happened on the road, and how He was known to them in the breaking of bread. Now as they said these things, Jesus Himself stood in the midst of them, and said to them, “Peace to you.” Luke 24:13-36
This is Day 48 that we are putting on hold our devotional “Epistle To The Colossians.” The plan for the devotional going forward was posted in the March 9th devotional.
Prayer: Father God, we thank you for opening our eyes to behold the glory of the Risen Christ. We rejoice that death could not hold Him and His resurrection is our hope of life. We thank you for the countless times our hearts have burned within us as we heard His words in the Gospels. We thank you for all the blessings we have received in communion when breaking bread. We thank you for forgiving our sins, justifying us, and healing our diseases.(Acts 2:24; Titus 1:2; Isaiah 12:1; Isaiah 54:7-8; Hosea 6:2; 1 Corinthians 15:6; Acts 9:1-15; John 17:20-24; Matthew 27:57-61; Psalms 30:5; Psalms 126:5; Acts 13:35-37; 1 Corinthians 15:3-4; Psalms 103:1-3; Psalms 103:9-12; Isaiah 53:10-12; 1 Corinthians 15:19; Acts 2:42). Lord, we pray that you will complete your work in us. Open to us the Scriptures. Give us understanding of what the prophets and the apostles have spoken. We have been called into your marvelous light and to show forth your excellencies, and yet oftentimes, for many of us, for the church here in America and elsewhere, it seems like the power of God that the disciples witnessed, that we see displayed in the book of Acts, does not appear to be a reality. We are sorry that often our reasonable conversations are the same like these disciples, full of unbelief and foolishness (Acts 17:6; Philippians 1:6; Jude 1:24-25; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24; Romans 16:25; 1 Peter 2:9; Psalms 145:4,6 ; Psalms 102:18; Psalms 78:4; Psalms 22:24-30; Galatians 3:1-5; Matthew 23:17-19; Romans 1:22-23; 2 Corinthians 11:19-23; Matthew 12:34-38; James 3:1-2; Ephesians 5:15-16; Matthew 16:6-9; Matthew 18:1-3; Matthew 20:20-28; Matthew 17:15-17; Acts 2:41; Acts 4:4) . We read that Jesus is the same yesterday and today, and yet, the experience of the church is not the same today as it was 200 years ago when Charles Finney was here, much less 2000 years ago when Peter and Paul were here. Your power is not demonstrated like Paul showed the Corinthians. While many of us seem to enjoy the freedom that Christ has won for us, we also see demonic forces raging, when you had promised that we would soon crush Satan under our feet and that old dragon would also flee from those who resisted his schemes. Father, in many ways we are like Cleopas on his road to Emmaus, we are like we thought Jesus would turn states after states upside down, from churches to universities, from universities to businesses large and small, from the homeless to the government leaders in authority, all touched by the glory of God—We thought that nothing was impossible with God—We thought that Jesus was the Savior of the world—We thought that you were Jehovah El Elyon, the Lord Most High—your greatness is in doubt in American churches and many nations today, Lord—rather than the glorious transformation we hoped for—we see confusion, darkness, and hopelessness (Isaiah 60:1-3; Luke 1:37; Jeremiah 32:17; Mark 9:23; 2 Kings 3:18; Matthew 19:26; 2 Corinthians 1:20; Psalms 76:12; Ephesians 3:16-20; Psalms 66:3-4; Ephesians 1:21-23; Psalms 47:2; Philippians 2:9-11; 1 Timothy 4:1-5; Matthew 24:12; 1 John 2:18; Nehemiah 1:5; Deuteronomy 33:29; Psalms 18:44; Revelation 2:4; Mark 13:8; 1 Timothy 2:1-5; 1 Corinthians 2:2-5; Hebrews 13:8; John 8:36; Galatians 5:1; John 18:8-9; Philemon 1:22; Hebrews 13:23; Acts 5:18-19; Acts 16:25-30; 2 Thessalonians 3:1; Romans 16:20; Ephesians 6:10-18; Matthew 16:18-19; James 4:7; Colossians 1:6; Romans 10:18; Matthew 24:14; Matthew 28:18-20). Father, we ask that your kingdom come in power, that your glory that was poured out on Pentecost will come like a tornado of fire in churches in America and beyond. We pray that we will be able to witness the miracles Peter saw on the streets of Jerusalem. We long for the angelic visitations that we see throughout the stories of these early disciples. We pray for the powerful evangelism that Philip witnessed in Samaria. We ask for multiplication of disciples on a daily basis throughout America, in all states, a revival that awakens hundreds of millions of souls in this country and billions more outside of America (Matthew 6:9-13; Mark 9:1; Acts 2:2-4; Acts 19:2; Acts 8:8;Acts 5:14-16; Ezekiel 34:26; James 5:7-8; Isaiah 44:3; 2 Peter 3:9; Luke 10:19-21; Acts 16:5; Acts 19:20; 1 John 4:4; Ephesians 1:3; 2 Peter 1:3-4; Colossians 1:27; John 14:12; Psalms 110:3; Hebrews 10:12-13). Father, in your rich mercies and great patience, we ask that you prepare the church and the world for the final return of the King of Kings and Lord of Lords. In the name of our High Priest, Jesus, we pray. Amen !
April 5th, 2021
Behold, I send forth the promise of my Father on you. But wait in the city of Jerusalem until you are clothed with power from on high. Luke 24:49 (WEB)
This is Day 50 that we are putting on hold our devotional “Epistle To The Colossians.” The plan for the devotional going forward was posted in the March 9th devotional.
Prayer: Father God, we thank you for having raised us up with Christ and made us to be seated with Him in the heavenly places. We thank you for his body we share on the Lord’s table and his blood with drink by faith in His crucifixion. We thank you for having given us a family in the body of Christ, Jews and Gentiles, from North and from South, from East and from West, who all share the same bond of the Spirit (Ephesians 2:6; Colossians 2:12;Romans 12:5; 1 Corinthians 10:7; John 17:11; 1 Corinthians 12:27; Ephesians 4:3; Luke 13:29; Revelation 7:9; Galatians 3:28-29; Genesis 28:14; Isaiah 49:6). Lord, as we still remember the joys of the empty tomb and Risen Christ, we pray that your Spirit will work upon our affections, to help us lift our eyes towards your throne and our minds to be set on the things above, because our citizenship is in heaven, Lord, and we await our Savior coming from there for the redemption of our bodies—that will be transformed like His glorious body. Teach us to live from that place where our life is hidden, how to live by Spirit, walk by the Spirit, pray in the Spirit, sing in the Spirit, preach under the Holy Spirit’s unction, plan our future by the Spirit, and have everything we do solely done for the glory of God ( Matthew 28:6; Colossians 3:1-2; Matthew 16:21; John 20:1-9; Revelation 1:14; Revelation 19:12; Mark 16:19; Psalms 110:1; Philippians 3:20-21; 1 Corinthians 15:48-52; Galatians 5:16, 25; Romans 6:5; Romans 8:4; Galatians 6:8; Romans 8:26; 1 Corinthians 14:14-16; Nehemiah 5:13; Matthew 18:19; Jude 1:20; 1 Corinthians 10:31; Matthew 5:16). Lord, we want to see more presence and power of the Holy Spirit than the current experience of the church in America and elsewhere. Lord, we know we should not be in the state we are in because Christ has purchased our salvation and obtained that gift of the Holy Spirit for us, and yet, in many ways, the manifestations of the Holy Spirit in the church are not what they should be. The explosive growth of the church that your Spirit brought after Pentecost is not seen here in America and beyond, and many churches don’t see 3000 thousands people added in an entire decade, let alone in one year or one month. So, we wait upon you Lord to bring us out of this weakened and impoverished state. We had said that we were increased in goods and riches, that we have acquired wealth and did not need anything, now we realize how poor and desperate we are, how wickedness is increasing and the church is impotent to overturn the trend or change the course of history like we have been reading happened in the past centuries (Luke 5:17; Acts 10:38; Acts 1:4; Isaiah 44:3; 2 Corinthians 1:20; Acts 2:17,39, Numbers 23:19; Joel 2:28; Isaiah 32:15; Isaiah 59:21; Psalms 27:14; Psalms 25:13; Psalms 40:1-5; Psalms 130:5; Lamentations 3:25; Habakkuk 2:3; Revelation 3:14-21; Jeremiah 2:28; Revelation 2:4; Philippians 1:9; Jeremiah 14:19; Jeremiah 7:1-7;Deuteronomy 32:20; Hosea 12:8; Zechariah 11:5; Matthew 5:3; Isaiah 66:2; Acts 2:1-4; Acts 16:5; Joshua 23:10; Deuteronomy 28:7; Isaiah 29:17;Isaiah 35:2;Ezekiel 37:14; 1 Chronicles 4:10; Zechariah 12:8; Ezra 9:5; 1 Kings 8:54-56; Ephesians 3:14-21; Deuteronomy 4:24; 2 Timothy 1:6; Hebrews 12:22-29). Father God, we pray that you strengthen the saints of your inheritance as we wait for that tornado of your Spirit’s fire. Cloth us with power like a garment until everything we touch is electrified with your glory. In the name of the Faithful Savior, Jesus, we pray. Amen !
April 6th, 2021
Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, “It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business
But we will give ourselves continually to prayer and to the ministry of the word.”
Acts 6:2-4 (NKJV)
This is Day 51 that we are putting on hold our devotional “Epistle To The Colossians.” The plan for the devotional going forward was posted in the March 9th devotional.
Prayer: Father God, we thank you for the light we receive by the unfolding of your Word and its entrance into our hearts. Lord, no matter what light or brightness we had a month ago, we want to have more light this month and a brighter path. We know that this is the destiny of your righteous saints. We pray that you teach us how to go from glory to glory with the help of your Word (Psalms 119: 105, 130; Malachi 4:2; Psalms 84:11; 2 Peter 1:19; Joshua 1:8; Proverbs 4:18; Psalms 43:3; Matthew 5:14; Luke 1:78; John 5:35; 2 Corinthians 4:6; 2 Corinthians 5:17; Ephesians 2:10; Acts 26:18; Ephesians 1:18; 1 John 1:5-7; 2 Corinthians 3:18) . We ask that you also teach us the importance of prayer so that we can give our full attention to this. Help us learn how to devote ourselves to prayer, to be steadfast in it, persevere under all circumstances, have staying power in prayer, and prevail through prayer. Give us a taste of your glory in prayer so that we can shun the enticements of TV, news, social media, and other distractions. Lord, we ask that even legitimate duties will not come between us and our time spent with you, that you will give us the wisdom we need to prioritize prayer before all things and above all things. Where we need assistance with other duties, we pray that you will send helpers who are suitable for such tasks so that prayer and the study of your Word can have a preeminent role in our ministry. Bring us to our knees by the prompting of your Spirit so that we will not be brought to our knees by a surge of calamity. Show us where we have gone wrong in neglecting the Word and Prayer so that we can repent and make necessary changes ( Isaiah 41:21; 1 Thessalonians 5:17-19; Luke 18:1-8; Hosea 14:2; Ephesians 6:18; Numbers 3:9; Luke 11:5-8; Isaiah 26:9; Matthew 15:22-28; Isaiah 65:1; Matthew 7:7-11; Romans 8:32; Isaiah 63:7; 1 Chronicles 12:1; Nehemiah 4:16; Acts 19:22; Psalms 65:1; Psalms 116:14,18; Psalms 132:3-5; Psalms 25:6; Psalms 69:16; 1 Kings 19:18; Philippians 2:10; Isaiah 45:7; Ephesians 3:14; Isaiah 31:2; Isaiah 47:11; Psalms 95:6; 2 Kings 19:25; Psalms 34:8; 1 Peter 2:3; 2 Chronicles 7:3; Hebrews 6:5; Psalms 86:16; Numbers 6:25; Psalms 68:35; 1 Corinthians 7:35; Matthew 6:24; Psalms 19:14; John 14:27) . Break the fallow grounds and hardness of our hearts towards intimacy with you and give us sweeter and sweeter moments of glory in your presence. Rather than dullness in prayer, give us fervency. Rather than sloth, give us zeal. Rather than sleepiness, give us awakening. Rather than feeling distant, bring us closer and nearer. Multiply answers to our prayers. Let us see more breakthroughs in the things we pray for in healing the sick, in the salvation of souls, in the provision of resources, in the strength to persevere, in the intercessions for those who are in authority, in the peace and tranquility in our regions, and acceleration of your kingdom in all areas ( Jeremiah 30:19; Acts 16:5; Isaiah 50:4; Psalms 145:19; Psalms 10:17; Jeremiah 33:3; Luke 1:53; Psalms 20:4; Exodus 19:4; Psalms 95:2; Hosea 10:2;12; Mark 16:14; Genesis 27:28; Haggai 1:10; Deuteronomy 33:13; Leviticus 26:19; Proverbs 3:20; Ezekiel 34:26; Zechariah 8:12; James 4:8; Isaiah 58:2; Jeremiah 4:14; Acts 3:19; 1 Timothy 2:8; Psalms 28:2; Isaiah 44:3; Isaiah 45:8; Isaiah 48:18; Romans 12:11; Acts 12:5; Hebrews 3:5; John 12:40; 1 Timothy 2:1-5; Hebrews 4:7; Isaiah 55:1; Acts 4:29-31; Isaiah 61:9; John 7:37-39; Psalms 46:4; Psalms 23:2; Psalms 36:8; Genesis 22:17; Isaiah 6:8; Acts 9:31; Isaiah 51:3; Acts 12:24) . In the name of our exalted High Priest, Jesus, we pray. Amen !
April 7th, 2021
But while the bridegroom was delayed, they all slumbered and slept. “And at midnight a cry was heard: ‘Behold, the bridegroom is coming; go out to meet him!’ “- Matthew 25:5-6 (NKJV)
This is Day 52 that we are putting on hold our devotional “Epistle To The Colossians.” The plan for the devotional going forward was posted in the March 9th devotional.
Prayer: Father God, we thank you for being our defender and protector, without sleeping or slumbering (Psalms 121:4). We thank you for giving us Christ as our Shepherd, the Chief Shepherd of the sheep, who laid down His life for the sheep and through whom we lack no good thing (John 10:14-15; Psalms 23:1-3; 1 Peter 5:4). We thank you for giving us so many faithful and watchful pastors in America, and around the world, who tend the sheep carefully, gently, firmly, wisely, and generously (Jeremiah 3:15;John 21:15-17; Acts 20:28-29; Ezekiel 34:1-10; 1 Samuel 17:34-36; Revelation 2:14; 2 Timothy 2:18; 1 Timothy 6:5; 2 Corinthians 11:2-4; Titus 1:11-13; John 10:10; Zechariah 10:3; Zephaniah 3:3; James 3:1; 1 Timothy 5:17; Isiah 40:11; 3 John 1:1-4). Lord, we know that you have called us to follow the example of Christ and be watchmen, engaged in Spiritual warfare, fighting for the Israel of the Middle East (Isaiah 62:6-7; Matthew 23:37-39; Romans 9:3; Romans 11:12-13, 24-25), and the Israel of God, the church of Jesus Christ ( Galatians 6:16; Galatians 3:29; 2 Corinthians 1:20; Ephesians 6:10-18; Matthew 16:18-19). Lord, we are sorry that just like Peter and the disciples slumbered and slept at Christ’s hour of trial, we ourselves have often slumbered and slept in the days when the church is facing a great crisis and the world is falling apart. We are sorry for the moments of resting that turned into lethargy. There are times we have felt like the church is a car on a highway, running out of fuel, and we have not put sufficient oil in to be able to run the engine to the end of the road. Father, have mercy upon us and awaken us. Lord, show us your kindness and give us the oil, the anointing of your Holy Spirit, so that we can run and not be weary, so that we can arise and shine, so that we can soar on wings like eagles. We are rushing here to buy that gold tried in heavenly fire. Give us that gold, Lord! (Psalms 57:8-10; Isaiah 51:17; Matthew 26:40; Matthew 24:12; 1 John 2:18; 2 Thessalonians 2:3-10; Revelation 2:4; Revelation 3:14-21; 1 Peter 1:7; Acts 9:40-42; Haggai 2:8; Isaiah 55:1-5; Matthew 15:14; Matthew 23:24; Isaiah 9:16; 1 Corinthians 10:10; Matthew 3:9; Luke 16:24; Psalms 49:7; Matthew 13:20-21; Job 8:13-14; Numbers 22:27-33; Numbers 14:37; Ephesians 5:14; Acts 22:9; Proverbs 27:23-24; Isaiah 52:1; Isaiah 60:1-3; Psalms 133:1-2;Hebrews 1:9; Acts 1:8; John 16:13; 1 John 2:27). Teach us to walk with you. Fill us with your Spirit, love, and power. Make us the vessels that you can use for the glory of your name, the awakening of your church, and the salvation of souls that are lost in the darkness of the world. Make us worthy warriors, men of valor, who defeat the forces of darkness. (Leviticus 6:13; Psalms 84:11; Judges 6:12; Isaiah 42:13; 1 Timothy 6:12; 2 Timothy 2:4-5; Psalms 149:5-9; Esther 4:14; Joel 2:17; Psalms 79:10; Isaiah 37:20; 1 Samuel 12:22; Psalms 94:14; Psalms 106:8; Jeremiah 14:21; Isaiah 48:11; John 9:4; 1 John 3:8; Acts 10:38; James 4:17; Revelation 12:10-11; Isaiah 60:20; Isaiah 30:19; Ezekiel 36:25-27; Ephesians 3:16-20; Philippians 2:13-15; Ephesians 2:6; Psalms 113:7-8; Colossians 2:12; Colossians 3:1-2; Ephesians 1:19-20; Psalms 18:28; Revelation 16:15; 2 Peter 1:19; Psalms 16:7; Proverbs 23:23; Revelation 1:12-17; Malachi 3:1-3; Luke 21: 36; Matthew 3:12) . In the name of our Chief Shepherd, Jesus, we pray. Amen!
[Noticed an encouraging video testimony on the topic- adding it before the worship song for the day- the link “Awaken the Dawn” below will lead to a Facebook page of that video testimony]
April 8th, 2021
Then had the churches rest throughout all Judaea and Galilee and Samaria, and were edified; and walking in the fear of the Lord, and in the comfort of the Holy Ghost, were multiplied. Acts 9:31 (KJV)
This is Day 53 that we are putting on hold our devotional “Epistle To The Colossians.” The plan for the devotional going forward was posted in the March 9th devotional.
Prayer: Father God, we thank you for the blessing you put upon the early church that inspires us. We thank you for the astonishing conversion of Apostle Paul that ended his zeal for persecuting the saints, and launched him into ministry to defend the Gospel he was trying to destroy. Lord, we acknowledge you as the One who brings rest to churches and the saints, who stops harassment and persecutions, in your power and wisdom. Father, we look to you for continued rest and tranquility, that the churches will be edified, and see their numbers multiplied ( 1 Kings 5:4; Proverbs 16:7; Galatians 1:23-24; 1 Timothy 1:16; Psalms 46:9; Psalms 76:3; 1 Samuel 2:4; 2 Thessalonians 1:5-7; 2 Samuel 3:1; Psalms 143:12; Psalms 136:15; Jeremiah 50:29; Psalms 145:18-19; Proverbs 21:30; Acts 5:39; 1 Kings 8:56; Isaiah 10:27; Psalms 23:2; Jeremiah 30:10; Jeremiah 33:12; Acts 20:32; Jude 1:20; 1 Thessalonians 5:11; Philippians 2:1; 1 Corinthians 14:3; Acts 6:1; Acts 16:5 ). Teach us to still our souls and know that you are God. We want to see you exalted among the nations. (Psalms 46:10; Exodus 14:13-14; Isaiah 30:15). Give us the wisdom we need not to be trouble-seekers unnecessarily— in the things that are not central to the Gospel ministry—that we may learn to focus on what you have commanded in order to enjoy the peace that you give us in those things. Open our eyes to potential dangers that we might have been blinded to (Romans 14:19; Jeremiah 50:6-7; Numbers 33:55; Psalms 92:5-6; Psalms 107:17; Deuteronomy 2:9; Jeremiah 4:18; Lamentations 3:39; Acts 9:23-25; Acts 20:23-24; Matthew 10:23; Jeremiah 26: 20-21; Acts 8:4; John 14:27; Acts 11:19; John 16:33; Proverbs 22:3; Genesis 13:10; Joshua 9:3-4; 1 Samuel 16:7; John 7:24; Number 14:9; Deuteronomy 1:29; Nehemiah 6:9; Isaiah 26:20; Psalms 57:1; Psalms 31:20; Psalms 91:4; Luke 2:14; Isaiah 48:18) . As these churches walked in the fear of the Lord while being edified, we pray that you continue to give us revelations of who you are, so that in our generation, we can see increasing awareness of the fear of the Lord among the saints, and walking in holiness. We pray for increased manifestations of the presence of the Holy Spirit among the saints and the churches today, that we will know and see more of His mighty works, and we will find solace in Him. Lord, if there ever was a need for church growth, it is now. We pray for multiplication of believers—that you give us the knowledge, wisdom, anointing, strength, strategies, and resources to get that done—open the eyes of many who are blind and in the darkness of the world—that they will see the beauty of Jesus, experience His love, witness His power, and taste His goodness (Proverbs 9:10; Job 28:28; 2 Corinthians 7:1; Acts 5:11; 1 Corinthians 14:24; Luke 10:22; Ephesians 1:17; 2 Corinthians 5:11; 2 Chronicles 14:14; 2 Chronicles 17:10; 2 Chronicles 20:29; Psalms 76:8; 1 Peter 2:3; Psalms 119:103; Isaiah 26:3; Romans 15:13; Jeremiah 29:11; Isaiah 41:10; Philippians 4:6-7; Acts 4:24-31; Daniel 3:28; Daniel 4:35-36; Acts 6:7) . Break the walls of those who are hardened, convince those who are skeptical about Christ, and astonish those who know little of your power. In the majestic name of Jesus, we pray. Amen!
April 9th, 2021
Jesus said to her, “Woman, why are you weeping? Whom are you seeking?” She, supposing Him to be the gardener, said to Him, “Sir, if You have carried Him away, tell me where You have laid Him, and I will take Him away.”
Jesus said to her, “Mary!” She turned and said to Him, “Rabboni!” (which is to say, Teacher).Jesus said to her, “Do not cling to Me, for I have not yet ascended to My Father; but go to My brethren and say to them, ‘I am ascending to My Father and your Father, and to My God and your God.’ ” — John 20:15-17 (NKJV)
This is Day 54 that we are putting on hold our devotional “Epistle To The Colossians.” The plan for the devotional going forward was posted in the March 9th devotional.
Prayer: Father God, we thank you for raising us from death to life, from dust to glory, from sin to righteousness, from enemies of God to sons of God. We thank you for the cross of your Son, Jesus, that made it possible, and for His burial we took part in, when we accepted to be baptized after our new birth, and His majestic resurrection that has made us partakers of your divine nature (Ephesians 2:4-6; Romans 1:4; Daniel 7:13-14; John 3:16; John 15:13; 2 Corinthians 5:19-21; Titus 3:5; Colossians 2:12; Galatians 2:20; Romans 6: 4-5; 1 Peter 3:20-22; Psalms 113:7-8; Luke 1:52-53; Psalms 68:13; Colossians 1:21; Romans 5:10; Ephesians 2:12-15; Isaiah 63:7; 2 Peter 1:3-4; Hebrews 2:11; 2 Corinthians 3:18; John 1:12; 1 John 4:17; Revelation 1:5-6). Father, we ask that you bring to completion what you have started in us. We do not want to think of Jesus as a mere gardener, or as a mere ghost, a mere prophet, a mere healer, a mere philosopher, and a mere financial advisor. We want to know Christ as our wisdom, righteousness, sanctification, and redemption. We want to be among those who will be counted worthy of the resurrection of the just. We want to be renewed in our thinking, have the mind of Christ, have supper with Him, tread where He has trodden, do greater works than He did, convert the whole world to His Gospel, and die the death of the righteous if He tarries, or be raptured to glory, if He comes in our generation. ( Philippians 1:6; Psalms 138:8; 1 Corinthians 1:8; 1 Thessalonians 5:23-24; Jude 1:24-25; Acts 20:32; Mark 6:49; Luke 24:37; Mark 16:14; Mark 8:12; 1 Corinthians 15:13-15; Matthew 22:29-33; John 5:24-25; John 11:25; Matthew 16:13-19; 1 John 2:18-22; Luke 24:21-26; Hebrews 13:8; John 6:26-29; 1 Timothy 6:5; Romans 12:2; 1 Corinthians 2: 9-16; Colossians 2:3; Luke 11:21; 1 Corinthians 1:30; Revelation 3:14-21; Mark 16:15; Matthew 28:18-20; Matthew 24:14; Hebrews 10:12-13; John 14:12; Romans 15:19; Numbers 23:10; Isaiah 57:1; Psalms 116:15; Philippians 1:21-26; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17; 1 Corinthians 15:51; John 14:1-6; Revelation 19:6-8;Psalms 45:3-13). Teach us to set our minds on the things above where He has ascended at your right hand, Father, that our hearts will not be attached to the things of this world, that we will not cling to the things you say will pass away and melt in the heat of your judgments, rather seize the life that you have offered to us and be perfect as you, our heavenly Father, are perfect. We pray that you will enable us to be genuine and fervent seekers of your kingdom and all that your kingdom brings to us. Lord, help us to discern things that may be a stumbling block in the pursuit of our calling and give us the wisdom to overcome them. Teach us to worship you in truth and in Spirit. Help us to serve you with fear and trembling. Help us to give the life and love we owe you without murmuring or looking back. Give us the extravagant oil of gladness and laughter, with the fragrance of holy sacrifices and worship, that will make the world hunger for your goodness, blessings, and favor upon our lives (Song of Solomon 3:3; Song of Solomon 2:5; Colossians 3:1-2; Matthew 18:20; 1 John 2:15-17; Mark 4:19; 2 Peter 3:11; Matthew 24:35; Proverbs 1:10; Matthew 16:23; Genesis 3:17; Deuteronomy 13:8; 1 Samuel 15:22; 1 Corinthians 8:9-11; Galatians 2:13; 1 Corinthians 7:23; John 8:36; 1 John 4:4; 1 John 5:4; Isaiah 51:6; James 1:11; Isaiah 40:8; Revelation 21:1; Isaiah 65:17; 2 Corinthians 5:17; 1 John 3:1-3; 1 Timothy 6:12; Philippians 3:12; 1 Timothy 1:18-19; Romans 8:12; Mark 8:34-38; Luke 9:62; John 4:23-24; Matthew 7:7-11; Isaiah 26:9; 1 Corinthians 14:1,12; Matthew 13:44; Matthew 5:6; Mark 8:20-21; Ephesians 1:17; Genesis 21:19; Isaiah 43:19; John 1:50; Numbers 24:3; Acts 7:55; 1 Samuel 3:1; 1 Samuel 16:7; Isaiah 30:10; 2 Kings 6:17; Colossians 2:5; 2 Kings 5:26; 1 Corinthians 5:3; Matthew 17:3-4; Matthew 17:27; Matthew 27:51; Hebrews 10:19-23; John 14:21; John 20:26-28; Revelation 5:6; 2 Corinthians 12:2-4; 2 Corinthians 5:7; Hebrews 11:27; Matthew 3:11; Acts 2:1-4; Acts 2:17; Philippians 2:12-15; 1 Corinthians 2:3; Hebrews 12:28-29; Romans 14:17; Romans 15:13; 1 Corinthians 13:4-8; John 13:35; John 17:23; Hebrews 13:16; James 1:27; Hebrews 1:9; Philippians 3:7-10; Matthew 5:14-16; Matthew 5:48; James 4:17; John 15:7-8; Isaiah 58:8; Isaiah 55:1-6; Matthew 6:28-33; Luke 12:32; 1 Corinthians 3:21; Luke 15:31; 2 Corinthians 2:14-16; Mark 14:3-7; Luke 21:1-4; 2 Corinthians 9:7; Matthew 22:37). In the name of our Risen Savior, Jesus, we pray. Amen !
April 10th, 2021
And since I could not see for the glory of that light, being led by the hand of those who were with me, I came into Damascus.
Then a certain Ananias, a devout man according to the law, having a good testimony with all the Jews who dwelt there, came to me; and he stood and said to me, ‘Brother Saul, receive your sight.’ And at that same hour I looked up at him. Acts 22:11-13
This is Day 55 that we are putting on hold our devotional “Epistle To The Colossians.” The plan for the devotional going forward was posted in the March 9th devotional.
Starting next Monday, April 12th, the devotionals posted in the “Today’s Devotional” section will be reposts of the older devotionals. I am thinking of starting with those from January. Will do that until we are able to return to Colossians later on. I hope that by reposting those, I get more time to spend on other projects I am working on.
Prayer: Father God, we thank you for revealing the glory of the Risen Christ to so many people He appeared to, providing us with factual testimonies that build up our most holy faith (Acts 1:3; 1 Corinthians 15:5-8; John 20:30; John 21:25; Hebrews 1:3; 1 Timothy 6:15-16; Matthew 28:18-20; Jude 1:20). We thank you for the joy you have given us in the hope of the glory of God to be revealed to all saints when we see Jesus (John 17:24; Romans 5:2; John 14:1-6). We are grateful for the converting power of your glory and the work of the Holy Spirit within us, who has taken what belongs to Christ and revealed them to us, indwelling us, and manifesting His mighty power in transforming our lives. We thank you that He helps us to overcome even in the midst of great tests. (John 16:14; Romans 8:9-11; 2 Corinthians 13:5; 1 Peter 1:7; Isaiah 48:10; James 1:2-4; Psalms 66:20; Deuteronomy 4:20; Hebrews 12:2; Colossians 1:27; Colossians 2:7 ;Galatians 2:20 ). Father, we are humbled that your glory was bestowed upon us, as we have become your temple, and that it fills us, giving light, knowledge, revelation, and salvation to those we come across. We thank you that we have become the resting place of your glory as we partake in your divine nature, becoming portals of your majesty, and having your commandments written upon our hearts. (John 17:22; Acts 7:48; Isaiah 66:1-2; John 14:20; 1 Peter 2:5; Psalms 104:2; 1 Corinthians 3:16-21; 1 Corinthians 6:19; 2 Corinthians 6:16; Ephesians 2:21-22; Hebrews 3:6; Revelation 3:20; James 5:9; Song of Solomon 5:2; Luke 12:36; 2 Corinthians 4:4-6; Matthew 5:16; John 15:8; 2 Corinthians 2:14-16; 1 Corinthians 2:8; John 9:39-41; John 1:14; 2 Corinthians 3:2-3; Ezekiel 36:25-27; Psalms 40:8; Hebrews 8: 10-11; Jeremiah 31:33-34; 1 Thessalonians 4:9; 2 Peter 1:3-4; Genesis 1:26-27; Ephesians 4:24; 1 Corinthians 11:7; Colossians 3:10; Ecclesiastes 3:11; 1 Timothy 6:12; Jeremiah 33:3; 1 Corinthians 1:7; Ephesians 1:7; Job 5:9; 1 Corinthians 2:10; 1 Corinthians 10:31; 1 Peter 4:11; 1 Thessalonians 2:4; 2 Samuel 16:23; Proverbs 13:14; Colossians 1:9). Lord, we pray that you will open our eyes so that we may comprehend your mysteries and by faith we may grasp the perfect significance of your glorious inheritance for us and help us in our pursuit of heavenly things, to behold your face, and be transformed from glory to glory (Ephesians 1:18; Hebrews 3:11; Hebrews 11:1, 3; Matthew 13:11; Mark 9:23; 2 Corinthians 3:18; Psalms 84:7; Haggai 2:9). Lord, we know there’s so much more to learn in your presence, so much more beauty to behold, so much goodness to taste, more praises of your glory to sing, more joy in walking with you, more miles to run to you, more virtue to be imparted to us, and much more power to witness in ministry. We know that you want us to be filled to the measure of all the fullness of God. We ask that you establish our feet on Mount Zion, and continue to perfect the saints, the church of Jesus Christ. We pray that you work mightily to bring your people, all saints in the church, into the full stature of Christ, so that we can testify to the world the fullness of who He is, and be prepared for His coming to take us (John 1:16; Romans 1:11; Ephesians 1:19; Ephesians 3:16-20; Ephesians 4:11-16; 1 Corinthians 2:6; Galatians 4:19; Colossians 1:28; 1 Peter 2:3; Titus 3:4-5; 1 John 2:27; John 14:18, 26; John 15:26; Romans 9:17; Psalms 76:10; Ezekiel 28:22; Ezekiel 30:19; Ezekiel 39:13; Deuteronomy 28:63; Psalms 63:5; Psalms 71:8; Psalms 96:6; Hebrews 12:22-28; Ephesians 5:26-27; 1 Peter 1:15-17; Hebrews 12:14; Genesis 5:24; 1 John 1:7; 2 Chronicles 7:1-3; Luke 5:17; Luke 8:46; Matthew 4:23; Matthew 9:35; Matthew 10:1; Matthew 12:15; Matthew 14:14; Jeremiah 30:17; Isaiah 33:21,24; Mark 16:18; 1 John 5:18; Psalms 78:16; Exodus 33:18-19; Acts 7:2; Romans 9:4; Nehemiah 9:25; Psalms 111:6; Psalms 2:8; Psalms 22:28; Deuteronomy 6:11; Philippians 3:14; 1 Corinthians 9:24; 1 Timothy 4:7-8; Psalms 119:32; Isaiah 26:9; Psalms 119:20, 55; Psalms 42:1; Psalms 84:2; James 4:5; Deuteronomy 4:24; Psalms 78:34; Psalms 105:7; Psalms 122:1-2; Psalms 87:2; Psalms 65:1; Psalms 48:2; Ephesians 2:19; Philippians 3:20; Ephesians 5:18; John 7:37-39; Psalms 81:10; 1 Corinthians 14:18; Romans 8:26-27; 1 John 5:14-15; John 3:34). In the glorious name of Jesus, we pray. Amen !