KINGS AND PRIESTS Daily Devotional Guide

Feb, 2018 Series

Pastor (Dr) and Pastor (Dr/Mrs) Otive-Igbuzor

© 2018 Pastor (Dr) and Pastor (Dr/Mrs) Otive Igbuzor

Published by:

Palace of PRIESTS ASSEMBLY,Ebenezer Place, Area One,After Gwagwalada Park,Durumi 2, Abuja, Nigeria

Website: www.priestsassembly.org E-mail: info@priestsassembly.orgTwitter: @priestsassemblyFacebook: Facebook.com/priestsassemblyInstagram: priestsassembly Tel: +234 8127100087 and +234 7063879653

PREFACE Prayer, worship and the study of the Word of God are the ingredients of a good Christian walk. Christianity is all about a relationship with God through His Son, Jesus Christ. The level and depth of our relationship with God shows in our relationship with humans. Every practicing Christian should have a daily walk with God. The Word of God is a compass that should guide our daily walk.

This Devotional is prepared to serve as a guide for a daily walk with God. It is expected that every Priests Assembly family and others will use this Daily Guide for morning devotion. Each day’s devotional study has a memory verse, background to the issue/topic, Practical Life Lessons and prayer points.

Every person/family is encouraged to engage in morning devotion every day. Start with prayer and worship/praise. Then, read the passage for the day. Study the devotional guide and pray, using the prayer points. Spend some time to meditate on what you have learnt and listen to hear from God. Write down what he says to you.

We are confident that as you use this devotional guide, the Almighty God will help you to yield to the Lordship of Jesus Christ and enable you to reign as a King and Priest (Rev 5:10).

Pastor (Dr) and Pastor (Dr/Mrs) Otive Igbuzor

Thursday 1st February, 2018:

Topic: Where the Word of a King is…

Text: 1 Kings 17:1; Eccle 8: 4

Memory Verse: Eccle 8: 4 - Where the word of a king is, there is power: and who may say unto him, What doest thou?

BackgroundWe are kings and priests (Rev 1:6; Rev 5:10). Our memory verse says where the word of a king is, there is power. The New American Version of the Bible puts it in plain language - Since the word of a king is authoritative, who will say to him, "What are you doing?" Many circumstances in life tend to challenge our authority as kings and priests. Do not accept them as okay. As priests and kings, we have authority to make decrees that Heaven will honour. Read Matt 16:18-19 and Matt 18: 18-19. What an awesome privilege!

1 Kings 17: 1 traces Prophet Elijah’s origin - Now Elijah the Tishbite, from Tishbe in Gilead – So Elijah was a mortal man like you and me…he was not a spirit. The passage continues – Elijah said to Ahab, "As the Lord, the God of Israel, lives, whom I serve, there will be neither dew nor rain in the next few years except at my

word." And so Elijah, by his word/pronouncement/decree suspended rain for three and a half years just to teach a heathen king a lesson. Just like God honoured Elijah’s word, God will honour your word.

Practical Life Lessons What is that life situation that constantly

challenges your authority? It is time to terminate it.

You have the authority of a king to declare what you want to see. Now, take your place and decree goodness over your life and your family; declare healing; declare breakthrough; declare prosperity; declare academic success, tell God what grade you want to make; declare peace upon your country, etc.

Prayer Points: Father, I take my place as king and priest. I hereby decree a reversal of every negative situation in my life and my family in Jesus’ Name.

Friday 2nd February, 2018

Topic: I Hear the Sound of the Abundance of Rain

Text: 1 Kings 18: 41-46

Memory verse: 1 Kings 18: 41 - And Elijah said to Ahab, “Go, eat and drink, for there is the sound of the abundance of rain.

Background:Yesterday, our devotion focused on how Elijah the Tishbite withheld rain by his decree/pronouncement for three and half years. Imagine the level of dryness that this must have caused. When he was ready to release rain, the same Elijah, without seeing the physical signs of rain, when to Ahab in 1 Kings 18: 41-46 - And Elijah said unto Ahab, get thee up, eat and drink for there is the sound of abundance of rain. So, Ahab went up to eat and to drink. And Elijah went up to the top of Carmel; and he cast himself down upon the earth, and put his face between his knees, and said to his servant, go up now, look towards the sea. And he went up, and looked, and said, there is nothing. And he said, go again seven times. And it came to pass at the seventh time, that he said Behold, there arises a little cloud out of the sea, like a man’s hand. And

he said, go up, say unto Ahab, prepare thy chariot, and get thee down, that rain stop thee not. And it came to pass in the meanwhile, that the heaven was black with clouds and wind, and there was a great rain.

Practical Life Lessons As king and priest, you have authority to make

decrees. Elijah spoke in faith. His servant checked 7 good

times before he saw the physical signs of rain…but it surely came. What are you expecting of the Lord? It will surely come.

Abundance of rain after three and half years of extreme dryness signifies unbelievable transformation. When God moves, He leaves no one in doubt. He can change your situation.

Is 43:19 – Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert (KJV).

Prayer Points Father, we ask for an abundance of rain – rain of

anointing, blessings, joy. Bathe us in the rain of the Holy Spirit in Jesus name.

Saturday 3rd February, 2018:

Topic: Can These Bones Live?

Text: Ezek 37: 1-14

Memory Verse: Ezek 37: 14 - I will put my Spirit in you and you will live, and I will settle you in your own land. Then you will know that I the LORD have spoken, and I have done it, declares the LORD.’”

Background:Many people may have experienced dryness, the type that challenges one’s faith. It may be in your spiritual life, health, marriage that has now lost laughter, in your academics, business or finances. If only you can see and hear by faith, things can still change for good. Maybe your own situation is so bad, and you have asked, can these bones live? Can my situation still change? The bones Ezekiel saw in the valley were very dry, no medical effort could have brought them to life. God commanded him to prophesy and he obeyed; and there was a noise, a rattling, and the bones came together, every bone to its bone. Verses 11-14 explains the vision.

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Practical Life Lessons Ezekiel was asked to prophesy, and he

did. In 2018, we need to walk in faith as the

Word of God has commanded us. Are you experiencing dryness in any

aspect of your life? Open your mouth and prophesy to that situation. God will ensure its performance.

Prayer PointsFather, help me activate my faith to see through the eye of faith. (Lead your family to prophesy).

Sunday 4th February 2018

Topic: God Will Not Leave Us Like This

Text: John 14:18; Isaiah 56:7; Isaiah 45: 1-3

Memory Verse: John 14:18 "I will not leave you desolate; I will come to you."

BackgroundAs a child of God, I know you will make it, irrespective of who you are. His Word says, "I will not leave you desolate; I will come to you." In Isaiah 45: 1-3, the Lord says I will go before you and will level the mountains; I will break down gates of bronze and cut through bars of iron. Imagine the Lord going before you as your escort, clearing all barriers off your way. Nothing can stop you. Only you can stop yourself.

Practical Life Lessons If you are in Christ, you will make it. Nothing can stop you but you must do your

bit. Are you putting in effort to do your bit? The Lord will go before you, only if you make

a move. If you are going nowhere, you do not need an escort. Your effort will attract God’s attention to go before you.

Isaiah 56:7 – mentions how God Himself brings us to His holy mountain and makes us joyful in His eminent presence.

Prayer PointsThank you, Jesus. I am unstoppable because you are my Lord and you never leave me alone. I commit to put in what it takes.

Monday 5th February 2018

Topic: They That Wait Upon The Lord

Text: Isaiah 40: 28-31

Memory Verse: Isaiah 40: 31 – but those who hope in the Lord shall renew their strength. They shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint.

BackgroundThe Eagle is the king of birds. It can spy its prey, 5 miles away with its powerful eyes (foresight, power of discernment). When the eagle grows old and its feathers are weak, it flies to a high place, among the rocks and uses its powerful beak to remove all its feathers. It then uses its beak and talons to hit the rock to expose its soft tissues. Unable to eat (likened to fasting, waiting upon the Lord), or fly, it spends time resting. With time, fresh feathers, talons and beak begin to grow. Its youth is renewed; the new feathers, talons and beak are stronger, and it flies better.

Practical Life Lessons Do you feel weak and weary; tired of

everything? Does life seem gloomy and stagnant, wait

upon the Lord, in prayer and there shall be a renewal of strength.

Prayer PointsLord, I receive Grace to wait upon you until my change comes.

Tuesday 6th February, 2018

Topic: Opportunity

Text: Eccl 3: 1-8; Psalm 90: 12

Memory Verse: Psalm 90:12 - So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.

BackgroundOpportunity is an amount of time or a situation in which something can be done. It refers to an appropriate or favorable time or occasion. Opportunity represents a chance, favorable time/occasion/moment, time, right set of

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circumstances, opening, window of opportunity, turn, possibility, new lease on life. A wise person seizes opportunities to make a difference. Note the link between OPPORTUNITY and TIME. Eccl 3: 1-8 says there is a time appointed for everything. Time is an opportunity! A chance given to you by God to fulfill destiny – touch lives; edify your generation. There is a time to be born and a time to die. In between is an opportunity to fulfil destiny. When we meet with Jesus, we will give account of how we utilized the opportunity of time, graciously given to us in equal measure by the owner of time.

Practical Life Lessons How will you utilize the opportunity of

time henceforth? Time is an opportunity. It takes wisdom

to use it wisely (Psalm 90:12) Do you know that today is a gift of which

we will give account to God?

Prayer PointsFather, I receive Grace to utilise my opportunities wisely.

Wednesday 7th February, 2018

Topic: What Will You Show To Jesus?

Text: Matt 25: 31-46; James 1: 27

Memory Verse: James 1: 27 - Pure and undefiled religion before our God and Father is this: to care for orphans and widows in their distress, and to keep oneself from being polluted by the world.

BackgroundWhen the Lord shall come in His Glory, He will request us to give account of our stewardship. Our text, Matt 25: 31-46 tells us what Jesus will be looking for at the throne of judgment. One would have expected Him to ask – How many hours did you pray? How many days did you fast? How many tongues did you speak? How many Scriptures did you quote? These are great Christians acts that help build us up and they are important. But what do they build us up to do?

2 Tim 3:16-17 gives the answer ‘All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God[a] may be thoroughly equipped for every good work’.

Unless our religious acts build us up for good works, it’s all a waste of time. We will have nothing to show to Jesus.

Practical Life Lessons What acts of stewardship are you involved? Plainly speaking, who will you feed, clothe,

support this year? What acts of benevolence will you take up?

Are you merely a receiver of blessings or a channel of blessing?

1 Corinthians 13:8 - Prophecy and speaking in unknown languages and special knowledge will fail/become useless. But love (touching lives, lifting people up, edifying other) will last forever!

Prayer PointsLord, I commit to make myself useful to my generation. May I not be ashamed when I meet you at the throne of judgment.

Thursday 8th February, 2018:

Topic: Why do we Miss Opportunities?

Text: John 9:4

Memory Verse: John 9: 4 - I must work the works of Him who sent Me as long as it is day; night is coming when no one can work

BackgroundEvery one of us must have missed an opportunity! Think about it! Our devotion today focuses on why people miss opportunities. Opportunity comes dressed in overalls and looks like work (Thomas A. Edison). Many people hate work! They are lazy! In John 9:4 Jesus says, I must work the works of Him who sent me, while is day (TIMELINESS; daytime is an opportunity to work), the night cometh when no man can work.

Practical Life LessonsConsider some other reasons why we miss opportunities:

i. Misplaced priorities– We prioritise our greed/self-satisfaction/comfort over client satisfaction.

ii. Undervalued relationships - Look around you – Being in your Church e.g. Palace of Priests Assembly (PPA) and knowing these wonderful people is an opportunity!

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Being in your place of work or compound where you live is an opportunity.

iii. We do not value the gift of God in us. We tend to despise the gift of God in us.

iv. Lack of preparation – Our General Overseer, Pst (Dr) Otive Igbuzor often says “When preparation meets opportunity, GRACE is operationalized”.

v. Of the above reasons, which ones apply to you? What are you going to do to make amends?

Prayer Point: Lord, I receive Grace to identify my areas of weaknesses and to work on it so that opportunities will not pass me by.

Friday 9th February, 2018

Topic: Do You Value Your Gift/Opportunity?

Text: . Gen 25:29-34; 2 Tim 1: 6-7

Memory Verse: 2 Tim 1: 6 - Therefore I remind you to stir up the gift of God, which is in you by the laying on of my hands.

Background:Today’s topic is a follow up to yesterday’s. One of the reasons we miss opportunities is that we do not value the gift of God in us. Neither do we value our opportunities. Your ability to discern your opportunities is a test of maturity. Esau despised his birthright. Esau sold his birthright for a mere pot of porridge. By so doing, he lost the benefits of being a firstborn.

Once upon a time, I bought a powerful pair of boots for my son from London. I sought the help his cousin, closer to his age, to buy it. Perhaps my choice would have been different, particularly as the cost of this pair could have fetched two or more cheaper ones, if I had done the shopping on my own. Yes, generational gap does affect fashion preferences. I was thrilled and so elated when my son began to wear the boots every day. For the first time, I knew how glad God feels when we use the gifts He has so graciously given to us. When we use our gifts, it a sign that we love and value them and the giver.

Practical Life Lessons What gifts do you have? What are the

opportunities that stare you in the face

right now? 2 Tim 1: 6 admonishes us to stir up the gift of God that is in us.

Can you demonstrate how much you value your gifts and opportunities by putting them to use?

Prayer Points: Father, thank you for the gifts and opportunities you have given me. I commit to using them wisely in Jesus Name.

Saturday 10th February, 2018

Topic: Addressing Ungodly Delays

Text: Deut 2: 1-3

Memory Verse: Deut 2: 3 - Ye have compassed this mountain long enough: turn you northward.

BackgroundWhen what you expected does not happen when (appropriate time; due season) you expect it, we say there is a delay. Some delays are permitted by God for a purpose. They are designed for God to be glorified. Sometimes God has a special plan that He wants to use the events in your life to accomplish. None of us can explain it but ultimately, it ends in Glory. May we find the patience to wait for God’s appointed time in Jesus Name.Ungodly delay Destructive delay is delay occasioned, not by God, but by circumstances and factors that are out to kill your dream and destroy your destiny. Consider the following questions: How many had/have a dream? Some desired

results were due and would have been more useful 10 years ago.

Are you taking stock? Or are you complacent? Are you conscious of/agitated/provoked by delay? Interestingly, not everyone is. Amos 6:1 – Woe to those who are at ease/complacent in Zion.

Some people are too careless to be aware that they have left their God-given dreams behind.

Delay is dangerous. Prov.13:12 says, Hope deferred makes the heart sick /Delayed hope makes the heart ill, (ISV)/an affliction; pain; regret; causes DEPRESSION – Lots of people are depressed and they don’t know it!

Practical Life Lessons

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Are you experiencing delay? Prayerful examine your life and family. You can do something about it.

You can exercise your authority as a believer and command every abandoned dream, to receive life and Grace for fulfillment.

Prayer PointsLord Jesus, I command the forces of delay to let go in Jesus Name.

Sunday 11th February, 2018

Topic: Causes of Ungodly Delays

Text: Daniel 10: 12-13

Memory Verse: Daniel 10: 12-13 - Then he continued, “Do not be afraid, Daniel. Since the first day that you set your mind to gain understanding and to humble yourself before your God, your words were heard, and I have come in response to them. 13 But the prince of the Persian kingdom resisted me twenty-one days. Then Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me, because I was detained there with the king of Persia.”

Background:Delay has several causes. In today’s text, we are told how Daniel prayed and his answer was withheld for 21 days by the prince of Persia. God had to send Angel Michael as a reinforcement to help the blessing carrier. A lot of things happen in the realm of the Spirit that we are often unaware of. Thank God, He works in our favour. Other causes of delay may include:

I. Indecision – Should I apply; Should I not? Dilly-dallying…delay.

II. Negativity/Negative Confession -. Prov 23: 7 – As a man thinketh…; Speak what the Lord has spoken – I can do all things.

III. Negative people/Vision Killers –IV. Laziness – God hates laziness - Proverbs

24:30–34 V. Fear – It takes courage to seize available

opportunities. 2 Tim 1:7 – God has not given us a spirit of fear/timidity.

VI. Closed Gates/Barriers/Obstacles – Isa 45: 1-3

Practical Life Lessons Prayerfully examine your life. Which of these

causes apply to you?

Some causes are self-inflicted. You can take action to rectify them today.

Some causes are caused by external factors. You can address them Spiritually.

Prayer PointsFather, every gate of brass and bar of iron erected against my destiny to cause delay is shatter you in Jesus Name. Every prince of Persia withholding my blessings, I release the fire of the Holy Ghost upon you now.

Monday 12th February, 2018

Topic: The Realm of the Supernatural

Text: 1 Cor 2: 4; 1 Cor 4:20; 1 Cor 2:9;

Memory Verse: 1 Cor 4:20 - For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.

BackgroundAs Christians, we are called to be different from the world in everything. We are called to live in and experience the realm of the supernatural. It is a realm higher than the natural. It defies logic or natural explanation. When you are in Christ, you access benefits that do not make sense to the human mind. 1 Cor 2:9 – Eyes have not seen, ears have not heard, neither has the heart of man conceived what the Lord has in stock. Natural senses cannot comprehend it. Only a person operating in the realm of the Supernatural can understand it.

When Jesus was on earth, He operated in the realm of the supernatural. The power to operate in this realm has been bequeathed to us – 1 COR 2: 4 says, My message and my preaching were not with wise and persuasive words, but with a demonstration of the Spirit’s power. - demonstration of Spirit and power; 1 Cor 4:20 says, the Kingdom of God is not in plenty talk but of POWER.

Practical Life Lessons Are you experiencing and operating in the

realm of the Supernatural? Do you know that our blessings are located in the heavenly places and only those who can reach that realm can access them? (Ephesians 1:3).

2 Cor 4: 18 – We look NOT at the things which are seen but at the the things which are NOT SEEN…for the things which are seen

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are temporal but the things which are not seen are eternal. Do you have what it takes to see the things which are not seen by ordinary eyes?

Prayer PointsLord, sharpen my vision to see beyond what my eyes can see. I want to experience the realm of the Supernatural.

Tuesday 13th February, 2018

Topic: Experiencing the Realm of the Supernatural: The Things that Limit Us

Text: Matt 14: 22-33; Romans 1: 17

Memory Verse: Romans 1: 17 - "For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith: as it is written, The just shall live by faith."

Background:In Matt 14: 22-33, the Bible says, by faith Peter walked on water while focusing on the Lord Jesus and thinking and seeing the way the Lord thinks and sees. The moment he removed his gaze from the Lord, he began to sink. Ordinarily, we as Christians, Priests and Kings, should experience the Supernatural. But certain factors limit us. They include:

Our little faith - Jesus lamented – O ye of Little faith – Matt 8: 26 – may the Lord increase your faith. Romans 1:17 says the just shall live by faith.

Distractions – Psalm 23: 5 - God prepares a table before us in the presence of our enemies – We are distracted by the enemy; human analysis and logic; by gossip; the popular/dominant view in the country. Logic fails; doctors’ reports do fail; Only God’s Word is infallible. It is time to FOCUS on Jesus

Past experiences –Why does the devil not remind us of past VICTORIES?

Poor self-identity – We are Priests! Exo 19:6. But many live as ordinary people. A priest does not go about complaining. A Priest and King is a solution carrier. It’s time to take your place!

Practical Life Lessons The just shall live by faith. Instead, many

live in fear. Work at building your faith. Past experiences cannot hurt you unless

you allow them. You can shut them out.

They form part of your glorious testimony as an overcomer.

Prayer PointsFather, I rise above every limitation. I want to experience the realm of the supernatural, Lord.

Wednesday 14th February, 2018

Topic: How to Connect with the Realm of the Supernatural

Text: 2 Cor 5:7

Memory Verse: 2 Cor 5:7 – For we walk by faith, not by sight.

Background:Supernatural encounters are not that rare. When you connect and operate in that realm, it becomes a lifestyle. I have had many of such encounters. While in the University of Ibadan, God showed me an examination question paper in my dream. I was not spiritually mature enough to know that it was a revelation but I did mention to a friend what I saw in my dream. We just laughed it off and were shocked when we got in for the exams and saw the question paper. It happened only once, though I would have been happier if it happened every exam. Of course, God was merely teaching me about possibilities in the realm of the supernatural. I shared this testimony in Church many years after and a sister who was writing exams had a dream in which, according to her, she saw me dictating Commerce exams questions to her. As a Science-oriented student, I did not offer Commerce in School. I only wrote Commerce exams and passed with knowledge of Economics. It was the Holy Spirit dictating. It was a supernatural encounter. The Exams questions were exactly what was dictated.

Several examples of supernatural encounters abound in the Bible. Examples include: Daniel in the Lion’s Den – Daniel 6 Shadrach, Meshack and Abednego – Daniel 3 The woman with the issues of blood – Matt

9:20-22 Elijah stopped rain for 3 1/2 years and

restored it afterwards – 1 Kings 17, 18, 19 The sun stood still for Joshua - Joshua 10: 13

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You may want to read these stories in your spare time.

Please note the following key steps to accessing the realm of the supernatural:

i. Read the Bible - John 6:63 - The Spirit gives life; the flesh counts for nothing. The words I have spoken to you are spirit and they are life.

ii. Soak/linger in God’s presence - PSALM 91: 1 – He that dwells in the secret place of the Most High, shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty. While you are at it, pay attention. Actually, stay in touch/in tune with the Holy Spirit all day. He speaks audibly, through ministration in your heart, in your dreams, through circumstances, through His Word, etc.

iii. See through the eyes of faith/focus on Jesus – 2 Cor 5:7 – For we walk by faith not by sight.

Practical Life Lessons It is your right to connect with and

experience the realm of the supernatural. Once you connect and are in touch, the

enemy cannot take you unaware. God will reveal his schemes.

Prayer PointsFather, I connect with the realm of the supernatural. I will take steps to position myself. Help me O God.

Thursday 15th February, 2018

Topic: Lord, Grant Me Supernatural SpeedText: 1 King 18:41-46

Memory Verse: 1 Kings 18: 46 - And the hand of the Lord was on Elijah; and he girded up his loins, and ran before Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel.

Background:There is Supernatural empowerment which energises us to accomplish what could take a very long time to accomplish, in just one day! In 1 King 18:41-46, Elijah the prophet of God experienced divine speed. Verse 46 says, Then the hand of the LORD was on Elijah, (and though

he was running on foot) he outran Ahab (who was riding) to Jezreel. Joseph was a child of destiny. He was falsely accused by Potiphar’s wife and thrown into prison. While in prison, he didn’t lose sight of who he was. Instead of grumbling and being irritable, Joseph focused on being a solution. Unknown to Him, God was working out his promotion in the Spirit realm. On a fateful day, Joseph was elevated from being a common prisoner to becoming a Prime Minister, all in one day.

Practical Life Lessons When you experience Supernatural speed,

your testimony will shock the world. Like Joseph, never lose sight of who you are,

no matter the circumstances. No matter the delay you have experienced,

supernatural speed will help you recover lost grounds, lost years and much more.

Prayer PointsLord, I tap into your Grace for supernatural speed, in Jesus name.

Friday 16th February, 2018

Topic: Receive Grace to Pursue, Overtake and Recover All

Text: 1 Samuel 30: 1-20

Memory Verse: 1 Samuel 30:8 - David inquired of the LORD, saying, "Shall I pursue this band? Shall I overtake them?" And He said to him, "Pursue, for you will surely overtake them, and you will surely rescue all."

Background:Our text tells the story of how the enemy invaded Ziklag while David and his men were away. Their wives and children and property were carted away. What has the enemy stolen from you? David and his men wept aloud until they had no more strength to weep. V4 – What has made you cry? V6b - It’s time to strengthen yourself in the Lord – Psalm 42: 5 – Why are you so downcast O my soul. In V7-8 – David inquired of the Lord, shall I pursue? V8 - God says it’s NOT OVER – PURSUE; OVERTAKE; RECOVER ALL. Joel 2:25 – I will restore unto you the years that the cankerworm has eaten. V16 – The enemy was rejoicing over their loot but like one preacher would say, it’s not over until you win! David

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pursued and overtook the enemy troop. V18-20 – Not only did David recover ALL that was stolen but he had his own war spoil in addition.

Practical Life Lessons You may have been weeping and

lamenting over a particular issue. You can now relax! It’s not over!

When God causes you to recover all, you will never be the same again. Your latter day will be greater than your former.

Prayer PointsFather, I will pursue, overtake the enemy and recover all. I tap into your Supernatural strength, O Lord.

Saturday 17th February 2018

Topic: Understanding Commitment

Text: Psalm 69: 9; Psalm 42: 1-2

Memory Verse: Psalm 69: 9 – For zeal/passion for your House consumes me.

BackgroundCommitment is the state or quality of being dedicated to a cause, activity, etc. It is an engagement or obligation that restricts freedom of action – you cannot act anyhow because you are accountable. Commitment means responsibility, obligation, duty, tie, dedication, devotion, allegiance, loyalty and faithfulness. Consider these two heavy statements:

i. Your level of SERVICE in the House of God is a true reflection of your COMMITMENT to Jesus.

ii. Your level of COMMITMENT to Jesus is a true reflection of your PERSONAL RELATIONSHIP with Him.

Your commitment can be seen in your zeal and passion for service. Psalm 69: 9 – For zeal/passion for your House consumes me. In John 2: 17 – (As Jesus drove sellers out of the Temple) His disciples remembered that it was written – Zeal for your House will consume me. Zeal is passionate enthusiasm - with complete focus and determination. Psalm 42: 1-2 says, As the deer pants for the water brooks, So my soul pants for You, O God.

Your personal relationship with Jesus is what drives you to serve. Ever seen a person CONSUMED by zeal? They are completely absorbed. Our General Overseer has been consumed by this zeal since he accepted the call to start Palace of Priests Assembly. I am his wife, so I can tell. The startup days were days of sleeplessness. He would go without food just to get things done.

Practical Life Lessons: There is need to do a self-appraisal. How is

your personal relationship with Jesus. The Psalmist says, I was glad when they said

unto me, let us go into the House of the Lord! (Psalm 122: 1) Is that still your testimony?

Are you the sort of person who is known to kill or stagnate every project or organisation put in your hands?

Prayer PointsLord, I tap into your Grace for service. I will occupy my duty post. Like Joshua, I declare that as for me and my house, we will serve the Lord!

Sunday 18th February, 2017

Topic: Is Your Priestly Altar Broken?

Text: 1 Kings 18: 20-39

Memory Verse: 1 Kings 18:30 - Then Elijah said to all the people, “Come here to me.” They came to him, and he repaired the altar of the Lord, which had been torn down.

BackgroundEvery priest has an altar! (Even juju priests hold their altars sacred). At Mount Carmel (battlefront for Elijah and the prophets of Baal; Life is a battle!), Elijah encountered a broken altar (1 Kgs 18: 20-39). In a Christian’s life, broken altars are marked by weakness in the spirit, lack of interest in God’s Word, inability to pray, struggle to attend Church programmes, negligence of duty, stale testimonies, all translating into a boring, unfulfilled life full of manifestations of the flesh – Gal 5: 19.

Before inviting the fire of God to consume his sacrifice, Elijah first repaired the altar. A broken altar will not attract God’s fire. It needs to be

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repaired. To repair your broken altar, you need to:

i. Feed on God’s Word - 2Tim 3:16 – It prepares you for good works/service…that is what Jesus will be looking for at the judgment throne.

ii. You need to cultivate the habit of spending time alone with God. Psalm 91: 1 This is where you tap strength for service.

iii. You decree breakthroughs/victory into your life, business, family, academics, career, etc – The word of a king carries POWER. You appropriate God’s blessings into your life.

Practical Life Lessons When you make a fire and it starts dying

down, what do you do? Re-gather the wood, fan it to flame! Keep fanning!

A functional altar is one that attracts God’s fire. That fire is the fire of the Holy Ghost.

Prayer PointsFather, I commit to strengthening my personal and family altars in Jesus Name.

Monday 19th February, 2017

Topic: When your priestly altar is functional…

Text: Jer 2:13

Memory Verse: Jer 2: 13 – My people have committed two evils. They have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters; And hewed them out for themselves cisterns, broken cisterns that hold no water.

BackgroundIs your Priestly altar still functional? If it is, there are clear signs to show. They include:

i. The zeal for God’s house and service consumes you. The fire for service burns. No one needs to drag you.

ii. Your commitment and service provoke God’s protection and blessings – God does not joke with the lives and situations of those who are in active service. He protects them jealously….He says TOUCH

NOT MY ANOINTED AND DO MY PROPHETS NO HARM – Psalm 105: 15.

iii. It provokes a demonstration of God’s power – 1 Cor 4: 20 – For the Kingdom of God is not in words but in the demonstration of God’s power.

iv. Jer 2: 13 shows that God is not happy when our priestly altars go cold. When we go away from His presence, to seek solution elsewhere, we incur His anger. Jer 2:13 says, ‘My people have committed two evils. They have forsaken me, the fountain of living waters; And hewed them out for themselves cisterns, broken cisterns that hold no water.

v. Practical Life Lessonsvi. Is your priestly altar still functional? Does

it attract the fire of God or has it grown cold?

vii. Running around, looking for solution outside God’s presence is as good as fetching water with broken cisterns. It is a waste of time.

Prayer Points: Father, I will not be found wanting…My Priestly Altar (my point of connection with Jesus) will not grow cold.

Tuesday 20th February, 2017

Topic: The Courage to Stand - 1

Text: 1 Cor 9: 24-27

Memory Verse: 1 Cor 9: 27a - But I discipline my body and bring it into subjection.

BackgroundThis topic will be treated in two parts. Today, we address people with self-imposed limitations; Christians who have refused to leave their comfort zone. We succumb to fear of the unknown and merely do what we consider safe and acceptable. We end up in a place called the COMFORT ZONE. The Comfort Zone is a behavioural space in which activities and behaviours fit a routine and pattern; a familiar terrain. It is characterized by minimal stress and risk; a state of false mental security where people relax and settle for average. It gives false hope, dangerous and unhealthy comfort. It is common with people who have help. Some people are a delight to help; others become devourers. They are wicked to themselves and

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helpers but blame everyone else except themselves. You help someone get a job, he/she goes whenever it is convenient, he/she is sacked and he/she blames the Company owner for being ‘wicked’!

A question for the typical sluggard, what are you presenting to God to bless? Deut 28: 12 says the Lord will bless the work of your hands. Laziness is not permitted in God’s Kingdom - Prov 20:4 - the sluggard will not plow by reason of the winter; therefore he shall beg in harvest. 2 Thess 3: 10b – Let he/she who will not/not willing to work, not eat. It takes courage to get out of your comfort zone. 1 Cor 9: 24-27 - 1 Corinthians 9:24-27 says, ‘Do you not know that in a race all the runners run, but only one receives the prize? So run that you may obtain it. Every athlete exercises self-control in all things. They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable. So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating the air. But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified.’

Practical Life Lessons Are you sitting cosily in your comfort

zone and watching life slip by? You cannot succeed like that. You need to push yourself. Life is a race! Run!!

You need courage. God has not given us a spirit of fear. Ask the Lord to help you.

Prayer Points: Lord, grant me courage to face life squarely and to take action to fulfil destiny.

Tuesday 21st February, 2017

Topic: The Courage to Stand - 2

Text: Numbers 27

Memory Verse: Numbers 27: 6-7 …and the Lord said to him, “What Zelophehad’s daughters are saying is right. You must certainly give them property as an inheritance among their father’s relatives and give their father’s inheritance to them.

BackgroundNumbers 27 tells the interesting story of the five daughters of Zelophehad. Their father died, and his property was going to pass to his brothers because he didn’t have a son. According to the

law operational in Israel at the time, daughters were denied any form of inheritance. These five daughters picked up courage, went to Moses and the whole assembly to demand their inheritance. It was an act of courage that earned them special mention in Bible history. In a culture where women didn’t count and were not counted, their names were mentioned - Mahlah, Noah, Hoglah, Milkah and Tirzah. Moses enquired of the Lord and God approved; and the law concerning inheritance in Israel was permanently changed.

Practical Life Lessons The daughters of Zelophehad knew their

history; their ENTITLEMENT – Do you know your entitlements as a Christian?

They VALUED their inheritance. COMPARE with Esau who DESPISED HIS BIRTH RIGHT (Gen 25: 32); exchanged it for a messy pot of pottage.

They did not accept the statusquo. Cry out and reject the statusquo – (2 Kings 4: 1-2 – A prophet’s widow cried to Elisha).

God sanctioned their demand and EVERY PROTOCOL WAS SUSPENDED – The Law regarding inheritance was changed permanently.

Prayer PointsFather suspend every protocol for your sake. My life will pioneer good things that do not follow human logic, in Jesus Name.

Thursday 22nd February, 2017

Topic: When God’s MERCY Rules!

Text: John 8:1-11

Memory Verse: John 8:11b - “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and sin no more.”

BackgroundOur God is a God of Justice. Justice demands that a wrong doer be punished. Even life punishes compromisers. Deceivers end up being deceived; looters may seem to enjoy great riches but when the hammer of the law falls, they are disgraced and reduced to nothing. The Bible says ‘when you see the wicked prospering, do not envy them because they will fade away like grass (Psalm 37:1-2; Psalm 92:7). In contrast, Prov 10:22 says

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‘the blessings of the Lord maketh rich and addeth no sorrows to it’.

We were all born sinners (Psalm 51:5). In addition, we have all sinned and fallen short of the Glory of God (Romans 3: 23). Stop and reflect! What sin have you committed? Are you a liar, thief, fornicator, adulterer, gossip, witch/wizard, or murderer? Do you know that the wages (payment) of sin is death (Romans 6:23)?

John 8:1-11 interesting story of a woman caught in adultery. She was dragged by a mob to Jesus. The mob accused her saying “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the Law, Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” Eventually, Jesus answered - “Let any one of you who is without sin be the first to throw a stone at her.” And one by one, her accusers dropped their stones and walked away until Jesus was left alone with the woman. John 8:10 says Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are your accusers? Has no one condemned you?”. “No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you. Go now and SIN NO MORE”. Mercy triumphed over judgment. Mercy is compassion or forgiveness shown towards someone who rightly deserves punishment; someone whom it is within one's power to punish.

Practical Life Lessons When God’s Mercy speaks, judgment is

overruled; every protocol is suspended. Jesus alone has the mandate to reverse

judgment. God gave Jesus as a ransom, the payment for our release. Jesus died in our place; He paid for our Salvation with His Blood (John 3:16). Salvation is the work of Mercy.

God’s Mercy still speaks. His Mercy speaks peace, favour, healing, prosperity, exams success, journey mercies, blissful marriage, safety, etc. God’s Mercy can turn the doctors’ verdict around and grant you healing, even if it does not make medical sense. God’s mercy throws open the doors of blessing shut because of one’s guilt or generational curses.

1 John 1: 9 says ‘if you confess your sins, He is faithful and just to forgive you and cleanse you from every unrighteousness. Will you accept Jesus today?

Prayer PointsFather, I want to be a partaker of your Mercy. Let your Mercy speak for me today.

Friday 23rd February, 2017

Topic: Power is Available!

Text: Ephesians 1: 18 – 21; Isaiah 61:1-8

Memory Verse: Eph 1: 18b-21 - that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, 19 and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power 20 which He worked in Christ when He raised Him from the dead and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places, 21 far above all principality and power and might and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age but also in that which is to come.

BackgroundLife is a battle. We do not wrestle against humans (flesh and blood) but against a hierarchy of demons - principalities, powers, the rulers of the darkness of this world, spiritual wickedness in high places (Ephesians 6:12). Demons may be powerful, but Jesus has ultimate POWER.

Ephesians 1: 18 – 21 says Jesus seats at the right Hand of God in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is named, not only in this age, but also in the one to come. And God put everything under His feet and made Him head over everything for the Church. In Matt 28: 18 – Jesus Himself declares, “ALL POWER has been given unto Me”.

Practical Life Lessons Do you know that you can receive power to

crush demons and terminate their operations around you? The only way is to accept Jesus as your Lord and Saviour.

Will you accept Jesus today? Are you still standing in Him? When you receive Jesus, He lives in you (Galatians 2: 20). If Christ lives in you, it means you carry POWER. Matt 16: 19 and Matt 18: 18-19 say we have power to bind demons and make decrees.

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Prayer Points: Lord Jesus, I surrender to you. Make me a Spiritual Power Broker.

Saturday 24th February, 2017

Topic: Jesus Came to Undo the Works of the Enemy

Text: Isaiah 61: 1-8; 1John 3:8b

Memory Verse: 1 John 3b - For this purpose the Son of God was manifested, that he might destroy the works of the devil.

BackgroundJesus came to undo the evil works of the enemy. It is for this reason that Jesus came – to destroy/undo the works of the devil (1John 3:8b). In Isaiah 61:1-8 and Luke 4:18, Jesus stated His mission – every item in His agenda is to reverse evil - preach good tidings to the poor, bind up broken hearts, set the captives and prisoners free, comfort all that mourn; and give them beauty for ashes, the oil of gladness in place of weeping, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. That’s not all! He ensures that waste places are re-built. Isaiah 61: 7 is profound – ‘For your shame you shall have double honour; and for confusion you shall rejoice in your portion and everlasting joy shall be yours’. Oh! How sweet it is to be in Christ!

Practical Life Lessons Jesus’ power to transform your life is still

available today. Your situation is not beyond redemption Power resides in you to undo the works of

the enemy. Just speak to that situation.

Prayer PointsFather, I unleash your power to reverse any negative situation in my life and family right now, in Jesus Name.

Sunday 25th February, 2017

Topic: Rooted in God’s Family

Text: Psalm 1: 1-3

Memory Verse: Psalm 1:3 - That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever they do prospers.

BackgroundRootedness refers to the quality or state of having roots. Root is the part of a plant which attaches it to the ground or to a support, typically underground, conveying water and nourishment to the rest of the plant via numerous branches and fibres. There are roots and there are roots. While the palm tree has deep and extensive roots; grass has shallow roots. Palm trees are deeply rooted and cannot be uprooted easily, unlike grass. To be rooted in God’s Family is to be established, settled, entrenched, confirmed, firmly established by long standing. The opposites of rootedness include drifting, migratory, unestablished, temporary, short term, fleeting, ephemeral, short-lived. Are you rooted in God’s Family or drifting and migratory?

Family refers to blood line. The blood of Jesus shed on the cross of Calvary for the remission of our sins reconciles us to God and signifies our birth into God’s Family. Family is a love relationship, both physical and spiritual families are founded on love (John 3: 16). Love is a give and take relationship. The emphasis is on giving, rather than receiving.Palace of Priests Assembly (PPA) is a Spiritual Family. When PPA started in June 2016, people trouped in. The initial crowd was a mix of worshippers with different concepts of Church. We have gone through a sieving process. We are now working to build the valuable wheat that remains. Congratulations! You and your family made it! As a Spiritual Family, Gods love binds us together. Family members care for each other, listen to each other, correct each other, find ways to tackle each other’s problems - You can be a solution to another’s problem. Family love and relationships are deeper and more important than what money can buy. Family is your last bastion of hope. God holds His family so close to His Heart. When you are rooted in God’s Family, Psalm 1: 3 says, you are like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither— whatever you do prospers.

Practical Life Lessons

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You are a valuable member of God’s Family. When you stay rooted in His presence, you

consistently tap nutrients like that tree planted by streams of water and remains evergreen.

Look away from distractions, focus on deepening your roots this year.

Prayer PointsThank you, Jesus for making me a part of your glorious Family. (Read, meditate and claim Psalm 23 into your life today)

Monday 26th February, 2017

Topic: Building on the Solid Rock

Text: Matthew 7: 24-27

Memory Verse: Matt 7: 24 - Therefore whoever hears these sayings of Mine, and does them, I will liken him to a wise man who built his house on the rock: 25 and the rain descended, the floods came, and the winds blew and beat on that house; and it did not fall, for it was founded on the rock.

BackgroundThe Church of God is built on a solid Rock, Jesus Himself. Isaiah 28:16-17 says Jesus is a sure foundation. He is referred to as the Chief Cornerstone. This is the most important stone laid and gives direction for how other stones are laid. Once your foundation is laid, you can begin to build.

Matthew 7: 24-27 says whoever hears Jesus’ Words goes forth to do them shall be likened to a wise man who built his house on THE ROCK and the rain descended and the wind blew and beat on that house and it did not fall. For it was founded on THE ROCK. But everyone who hears these sayings and does NOT DO them will be like a foolish man who built his house upon sand; and the rain descended, the floods came and the wind blew and beat on that house and it fell.

Practical Life Lessons Are you a hearer only, or a doer also?

For our lives (House) to withstand pressure from the world, we need to build on the Rock. Jesus is the Rock.

Prayer Points: Father, I join myself to wise builders. May my house not collapse in Jesus Name.

Tuesday 27th February, 2017

Topic: Going the Extra Mile

Text: Matthew 5: 38-42

Memory Verse: Matthew 5: 41 - And if anyone forces you to go one mile, go with him two miles.

BackgroundWhat is the extra mile? Roman Soldiers used to compel young able-bodied men to carry their bags for one mile. It was legally permitted after that no more. If you fail to carry it, they had legal right to punish you. The first mile is the mile of compulsion. If on your own, you decide to carry it for another mil, that is the extra mile. In contemporary terms, when you have a job or an assignment, you are expected to fulfil your terms of reference. If you fulfil it, you have done well. But you have not done anything spectacular. You have only fulfilled a minimum expectation. If however, you go beyond the call of duty to do more than expected, the you have gone the extra mile. Christianity is an extra mile religion.

Practical Life Lessons: Are you an extra mile Christian? Do you go

beyond the call of duty? Jesus went the extra mile for us. Can you go

the extra mile for anyone; your family; Church, etc?

Prayer PointsFather, I receive Grace to fulfill expectations and to go the extra mile, in Jesus Name.

Wednesday 28th February, 2017

Topic: Going the Extra Mile Requires Godly Wisdom

Text: Matthew 5: 38-40; James 3: 13-18

Memory Verse: James 3:13 - Who is wise and understanding among you? Let them show it by

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their good life, by deeds done in the humility that comes from wisdom.

BackgroundGoing the extra mile is an expression of Godly wisdom. James 3:13-18 talks about Heavenly and earthly wisdom. The extra mile has certain characteristics that make it unattractive to people who walk in earthly wisdom. These include:

i. The extra mile is a lonely road. It may be just you and God

ii. It is full of distractions and mockery - Those seated in the seat of the scornful, mockers, agents of darkness will call you a fool for doing too much.

iii. There is no definite end till the end of time or rapture. How consistent can you be?

iv. The extra mile commands rare blessings.

v. God considers extra-milers as the Apple of His eyes. Zech 2:8.

vi. God oversees your life and generation, provokes generational blessings: Hebrew 11 is a profile of 2nd milers. You carry a ‘TOUCH ME NOT’ anointing.

Practical Life Lessons Can you compare the blessings of the second

mile to its inconveniences? Are you a second miler?

Prayer PointsLord, I join the end time army of second milers. My family, Church, community, nation and the World at large will be impacted by my life in Jesus Name.

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