ASCRIBE TO THE LORD: WORSHIP IN SPLENDOR

Psalms 96:7 invites us to ascribe glory and strength to the Lord, recognizing His majesty and power. This act of worship is a posture of awe and reverence, acknowledging His worthiness. It also calls us to trust in His power, acknowledging that our true strength comes from Him.

This act of surrender, trusting in His grace, is essential in a world that often emphasizes self-sufficiency. Worship in splendor is a life of devotion, reflecting the glory and strength of the Lord in our actions, thoughts, and relationships. 

The call to "ascribe to the LORD" extends to every aspect of our lives, and we should carry the spirit of worship with us.

RENEWED STRENGTH IN GOD'S POWER

Isaiah 40:29 emphasizes the power of God in providing strength to the weary and increasing the power of the weak. It highlights the divine power of God, who understands our weariness and empowers us in moments of weakness. 

God's strength is not limited by our inadequacies but finds its full expression in our dependence on Him. Trusting in God provides rejuvenation and divine power, ensuring that we find strength beyond measure in every season of life.

STRENGTH FOR THE WEARY SOUL

Psalms 73:26 offers a profound assurance that God is the strength of our hearts and our portion forever. It acknowledges our vulnerabilities and limitations, emphasizing that in times of exhaustion, divine strength surpasses our understanding. 

As we navigate life's challenges, we should anchor ourselves in the assurance that God is our eternal portion, providing solace in His enduring love and promise of unfailing support.

BLESSINGS FLOW THROUGH COMPASSION

Proverbs 19:17 emphasizes the importance of kindness and generosity towards the poor. It encourages us to extend our help to those in need, whether materially, emotionally, or spiritually. By lending to the Lord, we are lending to the Creator of the universe, transforming our benevolence into a spiritual investment. 

The verse also promises a reward from the Lord, a harvest of blessings orchestrated by God's hand. As followers of Christ, this verse serves as a call to compassion, extending to all human needs. By showing kindness to the poor, we reflect the heart of God, reflecting His love in a world hungry for grace and mercy. 

By living out this truth, we can transform our communities and the world through His boundless love.

PATIENCE, POWER AND PROVIDENCE

Proverbs 19:12 highlights the power of a king's rage, which can be likened to the roar of a lion, and his favor, which is like dew on the grass. This verse highlights the impact of a leader's rage on those under their care, while their favor is like dew, which is gentle, refreshing, and life-giving. 

It also emphasizes the divine providence at work, as God ordains leaders and guides their actions. Leaders should seek God's guidance, as their decisions carry weight and their words and actions can have a profound impact on those they lead. 

The verse also calls for patience and humility, as God's favor can transform situations and soften hearts. In conclusion, Proverbs 19:12 serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the weight of our actions, patience, and reliance on God's providence.

THE DIVINE ROYALTY OF CHRIST

The Psalms and Daniel reveal the divine truth about Jesus Christ, the Son of God and the King of kings. The Son of God, Jesus, revealed a unique relationship with the Father, revealing a filial bond beyond ordinary. The Eternal King, Jesus, was portrayed as an eternal king ruled by righteousness and justice. 

The Vision of Daniel, in Daniel 7:13-14, depicts Christ's divine authority, universal worship, and an everlasting kingdom. These prophecies highlight the fulfillment found in Jesus Christ, who was born in Bethlehem and would one day ascend to His rightful throne. 

We should bow before the Son of God and the King of kings, embracing His divine royalty and acknowledging Him as the ultimate authority in our lives. See also Psalm 2:7; Psalm 45:6-7.

THE LIGHT OF CHRISTMAS

Christmas is a celebration of the incarnation of Jesus Christ, the eternal Word who became flesh and made his dwelling among us. This miracle of God's humbly taking on human form signifies His intimate involvement in the human experience. 

As we celebrate Christmas, we are invited to witness His glory, as it shines in the simplicity of the nativity scene and the profound impact of His redemptive work. The incarnation reveals Jesus as full of grace and truth, foreshadowing the sacrificial grace displayed on the cross. 

As recipients of these virtues, we are called to embody these virtues in our lives, reflecting the character of the Christ we celebrate. Isaiah 9:6; Luke 2; Matthew 1:21; John 3:16.

THE BIRTHPLACE OF A KING

Micah's prophetic words emphasize the significance of Bethlehem Ephrathah, a small town in Judah, as the birthplace of a mighty King. The town holds the promise of a Ruler with divine origin, Jesus Christ, who was born in Bethlehem, demonstrating God's faithfulness to His Word. The choice of Bethlehem emphasizes God's sovereign plan in history, encouraging us to trust in His wisdom and timing. 

Reflecting on Micah's words, we should recognize the significance of seemingly small aspects of our lives and embrace God's sovereign plan with trust and obedience. In conclusion, Bethlehem played a crucial role in God's redemptive story.

THE SIGN OF IMMANUEL

Isaiah 7:14 is a famous prophecy in the Bible, predicting the miraculous birth of the Messiah, the Savior of the world. In Isaiah's time, it was a sign of God's grace and faithfulness to His people. King Ahaz of Judah was threatened by the alliance of Syria and Israel, who wanted to overthrow him. God offered Ahaz a sign of protection and promise, but Ahaz refused. God promised a virgin would conceive and give birth to a son named Immanuel, meaning "God with us." This son would be a sign of God's presence and intervention, and soon after his birth, Syria and Israel were conquered by Assyria, saving Judah from their attack. 

However, this verse also signified God's love and salvation for the whole world. Jesus Christ, born of a virgin, was the ultimate fulfillment of this prophecy, coming to dwell among us, reveal God's grace and truth, and establish God's kingdom. He was the Lord of lords, King of kings, and the Prince of Peace. This verse is a sign of God's grace and glorious plan for us, demonstrating His presence and support.

HOW TO FIND YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS - Step Five

Experiment and practice using your spiritual gifts in various settings and situations. The best way to discover and develop your spiritual gifts is to use them. You can try different ministries and activities that match your gifts and passions and see how God works through and in you. You can also evaluate your effectiveness and enjoyment and seek to improve and grow in your gifts.

HOW TO FIND YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS - Step Four

Seek feedback and confirmation from other Christians who know you well. They can help you recognize and affirm your spiritual gifts by observing your behavior and attitude, by sharing their experiences and examples, and by giving you honest and constructive feedback.

They can also help you find opportunities and outlets to use your gifts in the church and in the world. See also 1 Corinthians 12:4-6.

HOW TO FIND YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS - Step Three

Take a spiritual gifts test or survey to assess your strengths and interests. There are many online tools and resources that can help you identify your spiritual gifts based on a series of questions and statements. These tests are not infallible or conclusive, but they can give you some insights and suggestions. See also Romans 12:1-18.

Some of the spiritual resources and online tools are:

The Release of Power

Anointing For Exploits

Understanding the Anointing

Understanding Divine Direction.

All authored by Bishop David Oyedepo, they are also available online and at Amazon stores. Other spiritual online tools include:

1. Spiritual Gifts Test by Lifeway: A comprehensive tool offering insights into various spiritual gifts.

2. Gifts Test by Team Ministry: A resourceful survey providing a thorough analysis of your spiritual gifts.

3. SpiritualGiftsTest.com: An easy-to-use online test helping individuals discover their spiritual gifts.

4. S.H.A.P.E. Assessment by Rick Warren: This tool assesses your spiritual gifts, heart, abilities, personality, and experiences.

I hope this helps! Remain blessed. 

HOW TO FIND YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS - Step Two

Read and study the Bible to learn about the different kinds of spiritual gifts and their purposes. The Bible lists various spiritual gifts, such as service, teaching, encouragement, mercy, evangelism, and administration. 

Some of these gifts are more visible and miraculous, while others are more hidden and practical. All of them are meant for edifying the church and glorifying God. See also 1 Corinthians 12:4-6.

HOW TO FIND YOUR SPIRITUAL GIFTS - Step One

Spiritual gifts are special abilities that God gives to each of His children to serve Him and others. They are not natural talents or skills, but supernatural endowments of God's grace and power.

There are different ways to discover your spiritual gifts, but here are some common steps that can help you:

Pray and ask God to reveal your spiritual gifts to you. He is the one who gives and distributes the gifts according to His will and purpose. He knows what gifts you have and how He wants you to use them. He will answer your prayer and guide you with His Spirit. See also Ephesians 6:18; 4:11–13.

HOW TO GROW IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD - Step Five

Share God's love and grace with others. This means being a witness and a servant of God to the people around you. God has called you to be His ambassador and His representative in this world. He wants you to share the good news of His salvation and His forgiveness with others.

He also wants you to show His love and kindness to others through your words and actions. By sharing God's love and grace with others, you can grow in your passion and joy for God and in your compassion and generosity for others. You can also make a difference in this world for His glory. See also Matthew 5:16 and 1 Peter 3:15.

HOW TO GROW IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD - Step Four

Apply God's Word to your life. This means not only reading and studying the Bible but also living it out in your daily situations. God's Word is the truth that sets you free from sin and error. It is also the instruction manual for your life, showing you how to love God and love others.

By applying God's Word to your life, you can grow in your obedience and faithfulness to God and in your holiness and righteousness before Him. You can also experience His blessings and His peace in your life. See also Psalms 119:105.

HOW TO GROW IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD - Step Three

Listen to the Holy Spirit. This means being sensitive and obedient to the Holy Spirit, who is God's presence and power in your life. The Holy Spirit is a tremendous gift that God has given you when you accepted Jesus as your Savior. 

The Holy Spirit helps you to understand the Bible, to pray, to overcome temptation, to produce the fruits of the Spirit, and to use your spiritual gifts. The Holy Spirit also convicts you of sin, guides you into truth, and reminds you of God's promises. See also Galatians 5:16

HOW TO GROW IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD - Step Two

Surround yourself with people who follow Jesus. This means finding a Church or a small group where you can worship, learn, serve, and grow with other Christians. God designed us to live in community and to support one another in our faith journey. 

By being part of a Church or a small group, you can experience God's love and grace through His people. You can also share your struggles and victories, ask questions and get answers, and learn from others' experiences and examples.

HOW TO GROW IN YOUR RELATIONSHIP WITH GOD - Step One

Spend time with God every day. This means setting aside some time to pray, read the Bible, and listen to His voice. Prayer is a way of talking to God and expressing your needs, praises, and confessions.

Reading the Bible is a way of learning from God and discovering His will and His ways. Listening to His voice is a way of hearing from God and receiving His guidance and comfort.

You can start with a few minutes each day and gradually increase your time as you grow closer to God.

AVOIDING TEMPTATION - Step Five

Avoid and flee from situations that trigger your temptations. Sometimes, the best way to overcome temptation is to avoid it in the first place. You can do this by being wise and careful about the places you go, the people you associate with, the things you watch, the things you listen to, and the things you do.

You can also set boundaries and limits for yourself and stick to them. If you find yourself in a situation where you are tempted, don't stay and try to resist, but flee and run away from it.

AVOIDING TEMPTATION - Step Four

Find a Christian friend or mentor who can support you and hold you accountable. You are not alone in your fight against temptation. You have a family of God who loves you and wants to help you. You can find a Christian friend or mentor who can pray for you, encourage you, advise you, and correct you when you need it.

You can also share your struggles and victories with them and learn from their experiences and examples. You can also join a small group or a ministry where you can grow and serve with other believers. See Ecclesiastes 4:9-12.

AVOIDING TEMPTATION - Step Three

Read and meditate on God's Word. God's Word is the truth that sets you free from sin and error. It is the sword of the Spirit that cuts through the lies and deceptions of the enemy. It is the lamp that lights your way and the food that nourishes your soul.

By reading and meditating on God's Word, you can learn His will and His ways, and you can renew your mind and transform your heart. You can also memorize and quote God's Word when you face temptation, just like Jesus did when He was tempted by the devil. See Psalm 119:9–11.

AVOIDING TEMPTATION - Step Two

Pray and ask God for help. God is the source of all wisdom and power, and He is able to help you overcome any temptation. He knows your struggles, and he cares for you. He wants you to be free from sin and to live a holy and joyful life.

You can pray to Him anytime and anywhere, and He will listen and answer you. You can ask Him to forgive you, to strengthen you, to guide you, and to deliver you from evil. See Hebrews 4:15-16.

AVOIDING TEMPTATION - Step One

Recognise your tendency to sin and the personal flaws that create your temptations. Everyone has their own weaknesses and temptations that they need to deal with. The first step to overcoming them is to admit that you have a problem and to identify the root causes of your sinful desires.

For example, you may be tempted to lie because you are afraid of the consequences of telling the truth, or you may be tempted to lust because you are dissatisfied with your marriage. By knowing yourself and your temptations, you can be more alert and prepared to resist them.

HONOUR GOD WITH YOUR TICKER

Honour God with your ticker. This is your heart. You can honour God by loving Him with all your heart, soul, mind, and strength and not having any idols or rivals in your life.

You can also honour God by loving others as yourself and not hating or hurting anyone.

HONOUR GOD WITH YOUR TREASURE

Honour God with your treasure. This means your finances. You can honour God by giving generously and cheerfully to His work and to those in need and not being greedy or stingy.

You can also honour God by being honest and faithful in your financial dealings and not cheating or stealing. See also Malachi 3:10.

HONOUR GOD WITH YOUR TEMPLE

Honour God with your temple. This means your body. You can honour God by taking care of your health and not harming your body with drugs, alcohol, tobacco, or sexual immorality.

You can also honour God by dressing modestly and not drawing attention to yourself or causing others to stumble. See 1 Corinthians 6:18–20.

HONOUR GOD WITH YOUR TALENTS

Honour God with your talents. These are your God-given gifts and abilities. You can honour God by using your talents to serve Him and others, not to show off or boast. You can also honour God by developing your talents and not burying or neglecting them.

I'm pretty sure no one will like to be cast out for not using his or her talent wisely! Let's therefore be wise by using our talents well enough to please our Master, Lord Jesus Christ, so that we do not miss our eternal reward. See Matthew 25:14–30.

HONOUR GOD WITH YOUR TIME TODAY AND ALWAYS

Honour God with your time. How are you using the precious time you have been given to glorify God? You can honour God by setting aside time for prayer, Bible study, and meditation each day. You can also honour God by using your time wisely, attending Church services, and not wasting it on things that are not pleasing to Him.

What a great opportunity to go to Church today being Sunday! So please make sure to use your time wisely today. See you in Church!

GOD'S PLAN

Romans 8:29 reveals God's eternal plan and purpose for His people. It teaches that God's plan is based on His foreknowledge and predestination, which means He loves and sets His affection on us. He chose us before the foundation of the world and called us according to His grace. He foreknew us, determining our destiny and securing our salvation. 

God's plan is to conform us to the image of His Son, who is the perfect representation of His character and nature. He redeemed us through His Son's death and resurrection, adopted us as His sons and daughters, and is transforming us through His Spirit and Word. God's plan is for His glory and our good, fulfilling His promise and power in our lives. 

We should trust God's plan and live by His grace, acknowledging His foreknowledge and predestination, and following His example with love and obedience.

EXEMPLARY AND INFLUENTIAL LOVE

Matthew 5:45 highlights God's perfect and impartial love for all people, demonstrating that He loves everyone equally and without favoritism or discrimination. God's love is generous and abundant, providing essential blessings like the sun and rain, as well as sustenance and enrichment of our environment. 

It is exemplary and influential, setting the standard for us to imitate and love others as He loves us. God empowers us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us, making us His children and witnesses. We should thank God for His love, live by it, and depend on Him with faith and gratitude. 

We should receive His love and blessings, and share them with others, as John 4:19 reminds us.