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TUESDAY DIGGING DEEP

30TH SEPTEMBER, 2025

BEYOND THE SPIRITUAL BASIS

Hebrews 5:11–14

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The foundation of any structure is very fundamental. The spiritual basis of salvation and deliverance is key to spiritual progress. However, whenever life isn’t progressive, it becomes stagnated, if not even retrogressive. Therefore, settle the foundational principles of your spiritual life once and for all, and make a giant stride toward perfection.

Beloved, do you have a firm and solid foundation? And how are you building on it? You must be progressive.

HOW IS YOUR CHRISTIAN LIFE SINCE YOU BELIEVED?
At conversion from darkness to light, certain things must happen to a believer to form a firm foundation for lasting structural and functional development: salvation and its assurance; sanctification; and the baptism in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues. Of course, there must also be deliverance from every satanic bondage and evil pattern.

As good and essential as these are, they collectively form a lower and basic level of faith known as the first principles of the oracles of God (Hebrews 5:12). Like I used to always respond to altar calls anytime I listened to messages from new preachers—even after my salvation experience—it profits you nothing going back to the basis repeatedly.

You can’t keep marking register in the same class for years and call it progress, no that’s no promotion. Beloved, move on to perfection today!

BUILDING RIGHT STRUCTURES
If genuinely you have been saved, by now you ought to be leading others to Jesus Christ for salvation. If truly you have been delivered from evil forces, by now you should be able to cast out devils as Jesus instructed (Mark 16:17).

If sincerely you have been speaking in tongues by the Holy Spirit, you should by now be operating in the gifts of the Spirit (Acts 10:38). Don’t remain at the base of faith. Strive for perfection!

Lay precept upon precept (Isaiah 28:10; 2 Peter 1:5–10). As a true child of God, you ought to be hearing God more clearly than ever before. When you begin to build these spiritual structures and embrace virtues and values, then you can stand strong with God, be fruitful, and become a blessing to others.

DANGERS OF STAGNANCY
Hear what Apostle Paul said in Galatians 4:1:
“Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all.”

Jesus Christ, while in the flesh, started as a child, but within three years of ministry He grew tremendously (Isaiah 9:6; Luke 1:80; Luke 2:40). You cannot remain childish, feeding on milk all your life, because:

1. You cannot rule as a child (Ecclesiastes 10:16).
2. A child-level Christian remains under guardians/rulers (Galatians 4:1).
3. A child-level Christian misses out on the divine agenda of dominion (Genesis 1:26–28).
4. A child-level Christian will be denied spiritual and ministerial promotion meant for the faithful (2 Timothy 2:2).
5. A child-level Christian cannot victoriously win the battles of life. Remember David—though young in age, he was “man enough” to confront Goliath (1 Samuel 17:32–37). It’s not about stature, but the right mindset for God and godliness.
6. Only those who overcome life’s challenges are promised eternal rewards (Revelation 2:7). CONCLUSION
   It is not enough to be a child of God. Be a man or woman of God (1 Kings 17:24). Making too many references to the past is evidence that your present condition is nothing to write home about. Are people still laying hands on you when you should be laying hands on others?

Wake up! Develop yourself daily in the light of God’s Word and grace. Go beyond the first principles of the oracles of God. Step higher into maturity in life and ministry!

PRAYERS

Lord, grant me grace to move beyond the basics and walk in higher realms of power, wisdom, and dominion in Jesus’ name.

Lord, help me to lay a firm and unshakable foundation in my Christian life in Jesus’ name.

Father, deliver me from every form of stagnancy and childishness in my walk with You.

Lord, open my spiritual eyes and ears that I may hear You more clearly and follow You more faithfully.

Father, let my life manifest spiritual growth, fruitfulness, and maturity that will impact others positively.

HOW’S YOUR CHRISTIAN LIFE SINCE YOU BELIEVED?

At conversion from darkness to light, certain things must happen to a believer to form a firm foundation for a lasting structural and functional developments: Salvation and its assurance; sanctification and the baptism in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tongues. And of course, you must be delivered from every satanic bondage and evil pattern. As good and essential as these are, they collectively form a lower and basic level of faith known as the first principles of the Oracle of God according to our opening scripture. Like I used to always respond to altar call anytime I listened to messages from new preachers even after my experience of salvation, it profits you nothing going back to the basis. You can be marking register in the same class for years and call it progress or promotion. Move on to perfection today!

BUILDING RIGHT STRUCTURES

If genuinely you have been saved, by now, you ought to be leading others to Jesus Christ for salvation. If truly, you have have been delivered from evil forces, by now, as a believer you have to be able to cast out devils as Jesus instructed (Mark 16:17). If sincerely, you have been speaking in the tongues of Holy Spirit, you ought to be in the gift of the Spirit forthwith (Acts 10:38). Don’t stay at the base of faith level. Strive for perfection. Lay precepts upon precepts (Isaiah 28:10; 2 Peter 1:5-10). By now, as a true child of God, you ought to be hearing God more clearly than ever before. It’s when you have these structures and many more spiritual virtues and values that you can stand alone with God, be fruitful and be a blessing to people around you.

DANGERS OF STAGNANCY
Hear what Apostle Paul said in Galatians 4:1:
Now I say, That the heir, as long as he is a child, differeth nothing from a servant, though he be lord of all;
Jesus Christ we are following while He was in the human flesh started as a child but within three years grew tremendously (Isaiah 9:6; Luke 1:80; Luke 2:40). You can’t choose to remain childish using a feeder bottle all through because:

1. You can bear the rule as a child.
   Ecclesiastes 10:16 says:
   Woe to thee, O land, when thy king is a child, and thy princes eat in the morning!
2. A child level Christian remains under rulers (Galatians 4:1)
3. A child level Christian missed out from the divine agenda of Dominion (Genesis 1: 26-28)
4. A child level Christian will be denied of spiritual and ministerial promotion. They are meant for faithful men (2 Timothy 2:2)
5. A child level Christian cannot victoriously win the battle of life. I believe you know, I am not talking about stature, status or age. David was a man enough by daring Goliath (1 Samuel 17:32-37)
6. It’s only those who are able to win life challenges that are likely to make it to heaven (Revelation 2)

CONCLUSION
It is not enough to be a child of God. Be a man and a woman of God (1 Kings 17:24). Making too much references to the past is a clear evidence that your present condition is nothing to write home about. Are people still laying hands on you, when you are to be doing the same to impact others? Wake up! Develop yourself on a daily basis in the light of God’s word and grace. Today forge ahead beyond the first principles of the Oracle of God. Step up higher in life and ministry unto MATURITY!

PRAYERS

28TH SEPTEMBER, 2025

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF

Psalm 139:1–14
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Brethren, do you know that it is only when you take care of yourself that you can take care of others? The Bible provides guidance on self-care by emphasizing the body as the temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19–20). You need your body to serve God. You also need your soul to connect with God and your spirit to fellowship with Him.

Keep your body in super shape (KISS). Free your mind from the cares of life and unwholesome thoughts, and let your spirit show great delight in God.

CARE FOR THE BODY

The importance of physical discipline (1 Corinthians 9:25–27), the need for rest and nice sleep (Exodus 20:8–10), the care for your environment (Genesis 2:15), and what you eat (1 Corinthians 10:31) are some of the ways of caring for the body.

Beloved, you are what you eat. Honour your body (Romans 12:1). You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore, honour God with your bodies (1 Corinthians 6:20).

CARE FOR THE SOUL

Seeking the right knowledge (Proverbs 4:7), engaging in profitable exercises (1 Timothy 4:8), building good relationships (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10), responding to Jesus’ invitation (Matthew 11:28–30), and engaging in soul-lifting praise and worship (Psalm 103:1–2) will help to keep your soul stable.

The command to love your neighbour as yourself—which includes loving yourself (Matthew 22:39; Mark 12:30–31)—is crucial for soul prosperity (3 John 2).

CARE FOR THE SPIRIT

The Bible encourages believers to care for the spirit through prayer and seeking God’s peace (Philippians 4:6–7), and by acknowledging God’s purpose (Psalm 139:14). It is essential to give preferential treatment and adornment of meekness and quietness to your spirit man (1 Peter 3:3-4).

MIXED ACTIVITIES FOR COMPLETE WHOLENESS

(3 John 2)

Casting your anxieties on God, as encouraged by Peter (1 Peter 5:7), is a principle that protects your physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual well-being. Always turn to prayer and thanksgiving to alleviate anxiety, promoting mental health and the peace of God (Philippians 4:6–7).

Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do; influencing every part of your being; flows from it, (Proverbs 4:23).

CONCLUSION

Self-care is the foundation for having a good relationship with God and fulfilling His purpose. Acknowledging that you are “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14) lays the groundwork for self-acceptance and self-care by recognizing your intrinsic value and purpose.

Value what God has invested in you—and take proper care of yourself.

HAPPY SUNDAY

DIVINE SUCCESS

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Text: Joshua 1:1-10

INTRODUCTION

Beloved, today we are considering Divine Success. True success does not come from human effort alone, but from God, who is the giver of every good and perfect gift (James 1:17). Many people pursue success at all costs, but not all success is good. Our focus today is on the success that comes from God—success that is lasting, peaceful, and brings glory to His name.

SUCCESS IN CATEGORIES

1. Bad Success

Some people attain success through cheating, fraudulence, occult practices, or immoral shortcuts. Though it may appear fast and attractive, it leads to destruction.

“There is a way that seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death” (Proverbs 14:12).

Examples: Gehazi (2 Kings 5:20–27), Judas Iscariot (Matthew 27:3–5).

2. Good/Divine Success

This comes from God and often requires patience, obedience, and faith. Though it may seem slow, it has a glorious and sweet end.

“The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it” (Proverbs 10:22).

Joseph is a biblical example: though he passed through trials, his end was glorious (Genesis 41:39–44).

GOD IS THE ROOT OF GOOD SUCCESS

God is the source of divine success. “Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above” (James 1:17).

He is all-knowing: He knows the unknown (Isaiah 46:10).

He is all-powerful: He strengthens the weak and lifts the humble (Isaiah 40:29–31).

He gives power to make wealth (Deuteronomy 8:18).

He can turn emptiness into abundance (Luke 5:1–6).

ACCESSING DIVINE SUCCESS

1. Connection with God

“I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing” (John 15:5).

2. Meditation on God’s Word

The Word of God is a compass for divine success.

“This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth… then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success” (Joshua 1:8).

3. Waiting on God for Instructions

Divine success comes by obeying God’s specific instructions.

Peter toiled all night but caught nothing until he obeyed Jesus’ word (Luke 5:4–6).

“And thine ears shall hear a word behind thee, saying, This is the way, walk ye in it” (Isaiah 30:21).

4. Collaboration with the Spirit of God

The Holy Spirit is our teacher and helper.

“But the anointing which ye have received of him abideth in you… and even as it hath taught you, ye shall abide in him” (1 John 2:27).

5. Demonstrating Hard Work

Divine success is not for the lazy. God blesses the works of our hands. Remember, success is when opportunity meets with preparation.

“Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men” (Proverbs 22:29).

CONCLUSION

Divine success is not measured by wealth alone but by walking in God’s will, fulfilling purpose, and ending well. While bad success fades and leads to sorrow, divine success is eternal, peaceful, and glorious. As we remain connected to God, meditate on His word, listen to His instructions, cooperate with the Holy Spirit, and work diligently, we will enjoy divine success. You will succeed in Jesus Name.

PRAYERS

1. Lord, thank You for being the source of every good success in my life.
2. Father, disconnect me from every pathway of bad or evil success in Jesus’ name.
3. Lord, give me grace to stay connected to You at all times (John 15:5).
4. Holy Spirit, guide me daily into the way of divine success (Isaiah 30:21).
5. O Lord, bless the works of my hands and let me prosper without sorrow (Deuteronomy 8:18, Proverbs 10:22). HAPPY SUNDAY

Theme: MORE THAN CONQUERORS

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Text: Romans 8:37 – “Nay, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him that loved us.”

A conqueror is a warrior who has to engage in a contest to attain the championship position. To be more than a conqueror, as stated by Apostle Paul, is to be made a champion by the One (God) who can never lose a battle or war. No matter how hard the devil may fight, Christians are more than conquerors through the love of Christ.

1. THE MAN OF WAR

God is the Man of War. He is Jehovah Sabaoth, the Lord of Hosts. He is so powerful that He can never lose a battle or a war.

Exodus 15:3 – “The LORD is a man of war: the LORD is his name.”

Psalm 24:8 – “Who is this King of glory? The LORD strong and mighty, the LORD mighty in battle.”

Isaiah 54:17 – “No weapon that is formed against thee shall prosper…”

Is there any battle you are confronting presently? You only need to make the Commander-in-Chief of the host of heaven your Ally.

2. BASIS OF CONTINUED WIN

You can never be an ex-champion as long as you keep loving God. When you love God, He will love you passionately and you can never be defeated.

Romans 8:28 – “And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God…”

Deuteronomy 7:9 – “Know therefore that the LORD thy God, he is God, the faithful God, which keepeth covenant and mercy with them that love him and keep his commandments…”

1 Corinthians 15:57 – “But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.”

Our continued victory rests in our relationship and love for God.

3. INDWELLING OF GOD

Another factor that puts us on the winning side is allowing God to dwell on the inside of us. No matter how little you may appear, you are a hard nut to break when God dwells within you.

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

Colossians 1:27 – “Christ in you, the hope of glory.”

2 Corinthians 2:14 – “Now thanks be unto God, which always causeth us to triumph in Christ.”

The presence of the Holy Spirit in a believer guarantees continual victory.

CONCLUSION
We are more than conquerors on the basis of:

Collaboration with God (Psalm 60:12)

The love of God (Romans 8:35–39)

The indwelling of the Holy Spirit (John 14:16–17)

With God on your side, you can never fail or fall.

PRAYERS

1. Father, thank You for making me more than a conqueror in Christ Jesus.
2. Every battle confronting my life, O Lord of Hosts, arise and fight for me.
3. Lord, increase my love for You and let nothing separate me from Your love.
4. Holy Spirit, dwell in me continually and make me victorious in all areas of life.
5. Father, let me walk in perpetual triumph and never experience defeat again.

✅ JOSEPH

✅ DAVID

✅RUTH ETC.

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DEFINITIONS AND LEVELS OF GRACE

1. Grace is Divine Enablement – the ability to do what you ordinarily cannot do by human effort.
2. Grace is an Area of Divine Gift – God’s given ability that makes you excel in your calling and assignment.
3. Grace is Divine Favour – unmerited mercy and goodness that make your life attractive to men and to God.
4. Grace is Spiritual Grease – the oil that makes spiritual activities smooth and effective.
5. Grace is Jesus Personified – the fullness of Christ revealed to mankind.

Titus 2:11 – “For the grace of God that bringeth salvation hath appeared to all men.”

John 1:14 – “And the Word was made flesh, and dwelt among us… full of grace and truth.”

To Grow in Grace means to increase, expand, or move from one level of Grace to a higher and deeper level.

LEVELS AND CATEGORIES OF GRACE
1 Peter 5:10 – “But the God of all grace, who hath called us unto his eternal glory by Christ Jesus, after that ye have suffered a while, make you perfect, stablish, strengthen, settle you.”

A) In Measure

1. Grace of the Lord – Titus 2:11
2. Great Grace – Acts 4:33
3. Abundant Grace – 2 Corinthians 4:15
4. Sufficient Grace – 2 Corinthians 12:9
5. Exceeding Grace – 2 Corinthians 9:14
6. Exceeding Abundant Grace – 1 Timothy 1:14
7. Unending Grace – Revelation 22:21

B) In Spiritual Activities

1. Grace at Salvation – empowers us to say NO to sin (Titus 2:11)
2. Grace at Sanctification – helps us hate sin, forgive others, and live by God’s standards.

Romans 6:15 – “Shall we sin, because we are not under the law, but under grace? God forbid.”

3. Grace for Service – empowers us to work and give willingly unto God.
4. Grace for Spiritual Intimacy – helps us pray, study, worship, and hear God consistently.
5. Grace for a Successful Ending – enables us to start, continue, and finish well.

Zechariah 4:7 – Grace shouts bring completion.

EXAMPLES OF TWO SAULS IN RELATION TO GRACE
Saul, son of Kish – started well as Israel’s first king but ended in shame (from grace to grass).

Saul of Tarsus (Paul the Apostle) – started wrongly as a persecutor but ended gloriously as God’s chosen vessel.

May you receive the grace to end well in Jesus’ name.

INGREDIENTS TO GROW IN GRACE

1. Knowledge of God’s Word
   (2 Peter 3:18; Acts 20:32)
2. Regular Visitation to the Throne of Grace

(Hebrews 4:16)– Bold access brings supply of grace.

3. Contact with the Spirit of Grace
   (Zechariah 12:10; Luke 2:40; Acts 2:4)

Note: Grace upon a person is visible (Acts 11:23).

4. Putting Grace to Work for Multiplication

(2 Timothy 1:6) – Stir up the gift of God.

5. Living the Life of Humility

1 Peter 5:5 – God gives grace to the humble.

IMPORTANCE OF GRACE

1. Means of Salvation and Sanctification
   (Ephesians 2:8)
2. Basis of Our Spiritual and Physical Status

(1 Corinthians 15:10) – Grace is our advantage.

3. Enables Good Works

2 Corinthians 9:8 – Grace makes us abound to every good work.

4. Security Against Disgrace

Grace protects from shame and the power of darkness (2 Kings 1:9–12).

5. Guarantee of Making Heaven

The thief on the cross entered Paradise by grace.

CONCLUSION
Grace is the believer’s strength, covering, advantage, and hope of glory. To grow in grace is to continually increase in divine help, favour, and ability until we finish strong.

PRAYERS

1. Lord, thank You for the gift of grace through Christ Jesus.
2. Father, let Your grace be multiplied in my life daily.
3. Lord, give me grace to say NO to sin and YES to righteousness.
4. Father, empower me with the grace to serve You acceptably and fruitfully.
5. Lord, grant me the grace to finish well and end gloriously in Jesus’ name. Amen .

2nd September, 2025

THE BODY WITHOUT THE SPIRIT

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Text: Genesis 2:7 – “And the LORD God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul.”

INTRODUCTION

Apostle James made us understand that “the body without the spirit is dead” (James 2:26).
This implies that, like motor spirit (fuel), the body – no matter how beautifully designed, decorated, or adorned – cannot function properly without the unction from God, the breath of the Almighty (Job 32:8; 33:4).

• The Spirit of God is the source of life (Acts 17:28 – “For in Him we live, and move, and have our being”).
• Without the Spirit, man is lifeless, empty, and powerless.
• The question is: Are you ready to function? Remember, the Spirit is your life wire. THE INTERCONNECTIVITY BETWEEN THE HUMAN SPIRIT AND THE SPIRIT OF GOD

The human spirit is limited (1 Corinthians 2:11 – “For what man knoweth the things of a man, save the spirit of man which is in him? even so the things of God knoweth no man, but the Spirit of God.”).

• Without the Holy Spirit, man is spiritually blind and insensitive to divine realities (1 Corinthians 2:14).
• The Spirit of God quickens our spirit to connect with Him in worship, prayer, and service (Romans 8:16 – “The Spirit itself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are the children of God.”).
• True fellowship with God comes only through the Spirit (John 4:24). HOW YOUR SPIRIT CAN COME ALIVE
• Imbibing the Word of Life – “The words that I speak unto you, they are spirit, and they are life.” (John 6:63). The Word feeds and energizes your spirit.
• Receiving the Breath of God through the Holy Spirit – When you are born again and filled with the Holy Ghost, your spirit is quickened (Romans 8:11; John 3:5–6).
• Living a Life of Prayer and Worship – Prayer is the breath of the spirit, and worship aligns your spirit with God (Jude 20; 1 Thessalonians 5:17).
• Walking in Obedience and Holiness – Disobedience quenches the Spirit, while obedience keeps the spirit alive and active (1 Thessalonians 5:19; 1 Peter 1:15–16).
• Fellowshipping with Other Believers – Spiritual growth thrives in corporate fellowship, exhortation, and communion (Hebrews 10:25; Acts 2:42). CONCLUSION

The spirit is the essence of life. Without God breathing into man, there is no existence. Your body is just a container; your spirit is the engine, and the Holy Spirit is the divine fuel that powers it. If you are not born of the Spirit, you are spiritually dead. Therefore, yield yourself daily to the Holy Spirit and keep your spirit alive through the Word, prayer, holiness, and fellowship.

PRAYERS

1. Thank You, Lord, for the gift of life and Your Spirit in me.
2. Father, breathe afresh upon me and quicken my spirit.
3. Holy Spirit, make me sensitive to spiritual things and obedient to Your leading.
4. Lord, remove every spiritual weakness, and let my spirit man come alive.
5. Father, help me to walk daily in Your Word, in holiness, and in fellowship with the Spirit.
6. Lord, let me never be spiritually empty; keep me connected to Your divine life wire.

Shalom.

THE UNCHANGEABLE GOD
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Song: My Jesus today… tomorrow… forevermore

Reliable God(Unchangeable/Dependable) God/4x

Malachi 3:6 – “For I am the LORD, I change not; therefore ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.”

It is often said that the only permanent thing in life is change, but there is One who never changes— God . His unchanging nature is affirmed in Hebrews 13:8: “Jesus Christ the same yesterday, and today, and forever.” Likewise, James 1:17 reminds us that with Him, the Father of lights, “there is no variation or shadow of turning.”

GOD IS RELIABLE

We can depend on His promises because His Word is forever settled in heaven (Psalm 119:89). Unlike men who may fail, God’s Word stands sure and unshakable (Numbers 23:19).

GOD WILL ALWAYS BE THERE FOR YOU

People may change. Circumstances may shift. But God’s presence is constant. He assures us in Isaiah 41:10: “Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.”

GOD WILL PRESERVE YOU TO THE END

Because of His mercy, we are not consumed (Lamentations 3:22-23). His unchanging nature keeps us safe and secure till the end (Malachi 3:6)

He revealed Himself in different ways:

1. To the three Hebrews in the fiery furnace as the Consuming Fire who quenched the evil fire (Daniel 3:25-27; Hebrews 12:29). The Unchangeable God will preserve you from evil fire (Isaiah 43:2)
2. To the Israelites in the wilderness as the Living Water and Bread of Life, satisfying their thirst and hunger (Exodus 16:15; Exodus 17:6; John 6:35). The Unchangeable God will preserve you from hunger and starvation (Psalms 132:15)
3. To the disciples on the sea as the Prince of Peace who calmed the storm (Mark 4:39). The Unchangeable God will preserve you from the storms of this world
4. To Daniel in the lion’s den as the Lion of the tribe of Judah who shut the mouths of lions (Daniel 6:22; Revelation 5:5). The Unchangeable God will preserve you from that roaring lion
5. And most importantly, to the whole world as the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world (John 1:29; Isaiah 53:5-6). The Unchangeable God is willing to save you to the end. A CALL TO YOU

Have you accepted Him into your life? He stands at the door and knocks (Revelation 3:20). Receive Him today, imbibe His unchanging nature, and remain steadfast in Him.

CONCLUSION

The Unchangeable God is also the Everlasting Father (Isaiah 9:6). Everything in this world is variable, but God remains the only constant factor. “Jesus said, Heaven and earth shall pass away, but my words shall not pass away” (Matthew 24:35). You can trust Him completely to the end.

Shalom.

SUNDAY SERVICE
27TH JULY, 2025

SWEET END

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Text: Job 42:12–17

“So the LORD blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning…” – Job 42:12a

INTRODUCTION

The Scripture declares in Ecclesiastes 7:8:

“Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.”

Though the beginning of a matter may be rough, painful, and full of uncertainties, God assures us that the end can be sweet, rewarding, and full of glory. The story of Job is a living proof that our end can be better than our beginning.

WHY GOD ALLOWS TRIALS (Using Job as a Case Study)

God allows trials in the lives of His children:
Job was a righteous man, yet he faced unimaginable loss and affliction (John 16:33). However, in the end, his restoration surpassed his affliction. His ridicules were turned to miracles. He recorded a glorious comeback and sweet end
Here are some reasons why God allows trials in the lives of His own:

1. Promotion and Enlargement

Trials can be the passage to promotion.

“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” – 1 Peter 5:6

2. Refinement of Character

God uses trials to refine us like gold.

“But He knoweth the way that I take: when He hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” – Job 23:10

3. To Showcase His Glory and Power

Job’s testimony glorified God.

“This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God…” – John 11:4

4. To Equip Us to Help Others

Those who go through pain can comfort others.

“Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them…” – 2 Corinthians 1:4

5. To Test and Prove Our Faith

True faith shines brightest in adversity.

“The trial of your faith… being much more precious than of gold that perisheth…” – 1 Peter 1:7

RIGHT ATTITUDES IN THE MIDST OF TRIALS

While in trials, our attitude matters. Job kept a godly posture, and so must we. Here’s how:

1. Don’t Be Discouraged – Count It All Joy

“Count it all joy when you fall into divers temptations.” – James 1:2

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28)

2. Don’t Despair – There Is Hope

“Why art thou cast down, O my soul? Hope thou in God…” – Psalm 42:11

I watched the highlights of the match between Nigeria and Morocco in the just-concluded WAFCON 2025 before the preparation of this message. The Nigerian women didn’t just stage a remarkable comeback after a discouraging first half—they went on to lift the trophy with a thrilling finish in the second half.

There’s always a second half to turn things around for you! Don’t be discouraged. Don’t despair.

“For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease” (Job 14:7)

3. Do Good to Others – Like Job Prayed for His Friends

“And the Lord turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends…” – Job 42:10

4. Be Resilient in Prayer and Total Trust in God

“Men ought always to pray, and not to faint.” – Luke 18:1

“Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him…” – Job 13:15

5. Stay Focused on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Your Faith

“Looking unto Jesus… who for the joy set before Him endured the cross…” – Hebrews 12:2

6. Rejoice in Hope of the Glory That Is Coming

“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory…” – Romans 8:18

Remember, YOU and GOD determine the duration of your life examination. Once you learnt the lessons in the midst of the trial through submission, God will not suffer you beyond what you can bear (1 Cor. 10:13). He will make a way of escape for you in Jesus Name.

GOD’S PROMISE TO YOU
Your current pain is not the end of your story. Your glory will soon appear. God’s Word declares:

“Your latter end shall be greatly increased.” – Job 8:7

“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” – Psalm 30:5

“Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth…” – Isaiah 43:19

You will laugh last
– Just like Sarah laughed after her long delay (Genesis 21:6), so will you.

You will testify
– Just like Job, your story will end in glory.

CONCLUSION
Don’t be discouraged by what you’re facing today. God is not done with you yet.

“The pain of today cannot be compared with the gain of tomorrow.”
“The story of today will soon become a testimony of glory.”

Hold on! Your sweet end is near
“Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 1:6

PRAYER
Father, thank You because my end shall be sweeter than my beginning.

Strengthen me to endure trials and hold on in faith.

Let my life glorify You in the end like Job’s.

I decree: My end shall be glorious, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

SHALOM

SWEET END

https://pastorafolabi.cw.center

Text: Job 42:12–17

“So the LORD blessed the latter end of Job more than his beginning…” – Job 42:12a

INTRODUCTION

The Scripture declares in Ecclesiastes 7:8:

“Better is the end of a thing than the beginning thereof: and the patient in spirit is better than the proud in spirit.”

Though the beginning of a matter may be rough, painful, and full of uncertainties, God assures us that the end can be sweet, rewarding, and full of glory. The story of Job is a living proof that our end can be better than our beginning.

WHY GOD ALLOWS TRIALS (Using Job as a Case Study)

God allows trials in the lives of His children:
Job was a righteous man, yet he faced unimaginable loss and affliction (John 16:33). However, in the end, his restoration surpassed his affliction. His ridicules were turned to miracles. He recorded a glorious comeback and sweet end
Here are some reasons

1. Promotion and Enlargement

Trials can be the passage to promotion.

“Humble yourselves therefore under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you in due time.” – 1 Peter 5:6

2. Refinement of Character

God uses trials to refine us like gold.

“But He knoweth the way that I take: when He hath tried me, I shall come forth as gold.” – Job 23:10

3. To Showcase His Glory and Power

Job’s testimony glorified God.

“This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God…” – John 11:4

4. To Equip Us to Help Others

Those who go through pain can comfort others.

“Who comforteth us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort them…” – 2 Corinthians 1:4

5. To Test and Prove Our Faith

True faith shines brightest in adversity.

“The trial of your faith… being much more precious than of gold that perisheth…” – 1 Peter 1:7

RIGHT ATTITUDES IN THE MIDST OF TRIALS

While in trials, our attitude matters. Job kept a godly posture, and so must we. Here’s how:

1. Don’t Be Discouraged – Count It All Joy

“Count it all joy when you fall into divers temptations.” – James 1:2

“And we know that all things work together for good to them that love God, to them who are the called according to his purpose” (Romans 8:28)

2. Don’t Despair – There Is Hope

“Why art thou cast down, O my soul? Hope thou in God…” – Psalm 42:11

“For there is hope of a tree, if it be cut down, that it will sprout again, and that the tender branch thereof will not cease” (Job 14:7)

3. Do Good to Others – Like Job Prayed for His Friends

“And the Lord turned the captivity of Job, when he prayed for his friends…” – Job 42:10

4. Be Resilient in Prayer and Total Trust in God

“Men ought always to pray, and not to faint.” – Luke 18:1

“Though He slay me, yet will I trust Him…” – Job 13:15

5. Stay Focused on Jesus, the Author and Finisher of Your Faith

“Looking unto Jesus… who for the joy set before Him endured the cross…” – Hebrews 12:2

6. Rejoice in Hope of the Glory That Is Coming

“For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory…” – Romans 8:18

Remember, YOU and GOD determine the duration of your life examination. Once you learnt the lessons in the midst of the trial through submission, God will not suffer you beyond what you can bear (1 Cor. 10:13). He will make a way of escape for you in Jesus Name.

GOD’S PROMISE TO YOU
Your current pain is not the end of your story. Your glory will soon appear. God’s Word declares:

“Your latter end shall be greatly increased.” – Job 8:7

“Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning.” – Psalm 30:5

“Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth…” – Isaiah 43:19

You will laugh last
– Just like Sarah laughed after her long delay (Genesis 21:6), so will you.

You will testify
– Just like Job, your story will end in glory.

CONCLUSION
Don’t be discouraged by what you’re facing today. God is not done with you yet.

“The pain of today cannot be compared with the gain of tomorrow.”
“The story of today will soon become a testimony of glory.”

Hold on! Your sweet end is near
“Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 1:6

PRAYER
Father, thank You because my end shall be sweeter than my beginning.

Strengthen me to endure trials and hold on in faith.

Let my life glorify You in the end like Job’s.

I decree: My end shall be glorious, in Jesus’ name. Amen.

SHALOM

22nd July, 2025
TOPIC: ACCEPTABLE OFFERINGS
Text: Romans 12:1-2

“I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.
And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.” — Romans 12:1-2 (KJV)

The truth that not all offerings are acceptable to God should stir deep reflection and gratitude when we see that God accepts ours. For example:
God accepted Abel’s offering and rejected Cain’s — Genesis 4:4-5

“And the Lord had respect unto Abel and to his offering: But unto Cain and to his offering he had not respect…”
Elisha rejected Naaman’s gift

— 2 Kings 5:15-16
“…As the Lord liveth, before whom I stand, I will receive none…”

But God remembered Cornelius’ offerings — Acts 10:4
“…Thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.”

The quality of the life, the heart of the offerer, and the offering itself are often the determining factors for whether an offering is accepted or rejected.
Understanding this principle, King David said:
“…I will not offer burnt offerings unto the Lord my God of that which doth cost me nothing.” — 2 Samuel 24:24

What is an Offering?
An offering is more than a gift; it is a sacrifice. Once it is given, it leaves your ownership and becomes God’s. Consider Abraham, who offered Isaac — once offered, Isaac became a living sacrifice:
“By faith Abraham, when he was tried, offered up Isaac… accounting that God was able to raise him up…” — Hebrews 11:17,19

Are you still competing emotionally with what you claimed to have given to God? If it’s truly laid on the altar, then it belongs to God and no more yours. Interestingly, the reward is yours.

What Makes Your Offerings Acceptable?
God can reject offerings not just because of the offering itself, but because of how and from whom it is offered. To make your offering acceptable therefore:

1. You must first be acceptable to God — you must be born again.

“The sacrifice of the wicked is an abomination to the Lord: but the prayer of the upright is His delight.” — Proverbs 15:8

“Except a man be born again, he cannot see the kingdom of God.” — John 3:3

2. Offer according to your ability.
   “Every man shall give as he is able, according to the blessing of the Lord thy God which He hath given thee.” — Deuteronomy 16:17
3. Offer a living sacrifice — something that costs you deeply.
   “Present your bodies a living sacrifice…” — Romans 12:1
   “To obey is better than sacrifice…” — 1 Samuel 15:22
4. Offer cheerfully and with faith.

“God loveth a cheerful giver.” — 2 Corinthians 9:7
“But without faith it is impossible to please Him…” — Hebrews 11:6

5. Offer it in a timely manner — don’t delay.

“Withhold not good from them to whom it is due, when it is in the power of thine hand to do it.” — Proverbs 3:27

6. Offer it on the right soil or altar — guided by the Spirit, not flesh.

“And the fire of God came down upon the altar…” — 1 Kings 18:38

Remember, Abraham got to the prescribed mount Moriah before the presentation of his offering (Genesis 22:2)

7. Let it be done with honour — not for show or boasting.

“Honour the Lord with thy substance…” — Proverbs 3:9
“Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them…” — Matthew 6:1

Conclusion
Beloved, God is real and He rewards those who diligently seek Him:

“But without faith it is impossible to please Him: for he that cometh to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of them that diligently seek Him.” — Hebrews 11:6

Whether you offer to Him directly — such as the sacrifice of praise (Hebrews 13:15) — or indirectly through giving (Philippians 4:18), do it correctly and faithfully, and you will never lose your reward.

Shalom .