Anchor of Life & Redemption Ministry : June 2023

Friday, June 30, 2023

AS WE PASS TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE YEAR ...

SATURDAY, 1ST JULY, 2023.

By: PASTOR DR. SAMUEL AYORINDE – General Overseer, Anchor of Life & Redemption Ministry Int’l

TOPIC: AS WE PASS TO THE OTHER SIDE OF THE YEAR ...

MEMORIZE: “And I took your father Abraham from the other side of the flood, and led him throughout all the land of Canaan, and multiplied his seed, and gave him Isaac." Joshua 24:3.

SCRIPTURE READING: Mark 4:35-39.

“And the same day, when the even was come, he saith unto them, Let us pass over unto the other side. 36 And when they had sent away the multitude, they took him even as he was in the ship. And there were also with him other little ships. 37 And there arose a great storm of wind, and the waves beat into the ship, so that it was now full. 38 And he was in the hinder part of the ship, asleep on a pillow: and they awake him, and say unto him, Master, carest thou not that we perish? 39 And he arose, and rebuked the wind, and said unto the sea, Peace, be still. And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm.”

EXPOSITION:

It is great privilege to be counted worthy among the living who cross successfully to the other side of the year. If you are to examine the journey so far in this year, you will realize that lots of storms have raged and many lives lost… You could have been a victim, but for His mercy you scale through, you and I need to appreciate God by rededicating our lives unto Him for an acceptable service.

In this other side of the year, which is the second half of the year, God has plan for your increase in fruitfulness and fulfillment of His purpose for your life. “And I took your father Abraham from the other side of the flood, and led him throughout all the land of Canaan, and multiplied his seed, and gave him Isaac." Joshua 24:3. God brought Abraham out of Ur of the Chaldees, Jos 24:2,3. He and his ancestors had served other gods there, for it was the country in which idolatry had its rise, though celebrated for learning; there the world by wisdom knew not God. Abraham, who afterwards was the friend of God and the great favourite of heaven, was bred up in idolatry, and lived long in it, till God by his grace snatched him as a brand out of that burning. God is now calling on His seed to remember that rock out of which they were hewn, and not relapse into that sin from which their fathers by a miracle of free grace were delivered.

God says, "I took him,… else he had never come out of that sinful state." And I multiplied his seed. Hence Abraham's justification is made by the apostle an instance of God's justifying the ungodly, Rom. 4:5 “But to him that worketh not, but believeth on him that justifieth the ungodly, his faith is counted for righteousness”

At the same time, the devil also has arranged raging storms to prevent you from receiving the blessings of God. He wants to render you frustrated and unfulfilled. Jesus and his disciples were to cross to the other side of the sea when then sea storm raged against them, to the extent it would have overflow them, but the presence of Jesus in the ship gave them victory. As you journey in this second half of the year, we need Jesus to help us calm the storming sea and lead us safely to our safe haven. Many will be silenced in this journey, many evil will befall many others, but he that shall call unto the name of the Lord shall be delivered. Journey with God that He may watch over you in the days of evil.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, I receive grace to journey with you in this second half of this year to be prosperous and be protected together with my loved ones in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 127-130.

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ANCHOR OF LIFE is the daily devotional guide written by PASTOR DR. SAMUEL AYORINDE. It is an extraction of God’s word designed to draw the sincere seekers closer to God on a daily basis through an insightful exposition and analysis of God’s Word. Read, Meditate, Pray and Share this message to others. For prayers, Counseling and further enquiries, call or whatsapp +2347032993319; +2348056130469. Or Email: anchoroflifeministry@gmail.com

Thursday, June 29, 2023

ARE YOU CALLED A FAILURE? WAIT ON GOD!

FRIDAY, 30TH JUNE, 2023.

By: PASTOR DR. SAMUEL AYORINDE – General Overseer, Anchor of Life & Redemption Ministry Int’l

Topic: ARE YOU CALLED A FAILURE? WAIT ON GOD!

MEMORIZE: "And her adversary also provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the LORD had shut up her womb." 1 Samuel 1:6

SCRIPTURE READING: 1 Samuel 2:5-8.

“They that were full have hired out themselves for bread; and they that were hungry ceased: so that the barren hath born seven; and she that hath many children is waxed feeble. 6 The LORD killeth, and maketh alive: he bringeth down to the grave, and bringeth up. 7 The LORD maketh poor, and maketh rich: he bringeth low, and lifteth up. 8 He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth up the beggar from the dunghill, to set them among princes, and to make them inherit the throne of glory: for the pillars of the earth are the LORD'S, and he hath set the world upon them.”

EXPOSITION:

Failure is inability to meet up with the standard of success or not fulfilling one’s expectation or life’s dream. Failure is the opposite of success. But failure is never the end of life, its effects over our life depends on how we see it. The bitterness and humiliation experienced during failure also depends on how possible we see God in our situation. Some see failure as a way to amend our way for a fresh and better beginning. But to those who see failure as a bitter knockdown, they see it as a frustrating factor preventing their success and greatness. We learn to be better when we see failure as a way forward toward better improvement. God is God of success but gives room for men to amend their ways in order to get it right with Him.

Hannah was once regarded a failure because of her barrenness. Her rival that the word of God called “her adversary” do “provoked her sore, for to make her fret, because the LORD had shut up her womb.” Peninnah thought it was over for her rival, Hannah. But at God’s time, her supposed failure was visited and turned to success with the birth of Samuel. In her excitement, she praised God, who had dealt so marvelously with her.

What great things she says of God. She takes little notice of the particular mercy she was now rejoicing in, does not commend Samuel for the prettiest child as fond parents are too apt to do. No, she overlooks the gift, and praises the giver; whereas most forget the giver and fasten only on the gift. Every stream should lead us to the fountain; and the favours we receive from God should raise our admiration of the infinite perfections that are in God. There may be other Samuels, but no other Jehovah. There is none beside thee. Note, God is to be praised as a peerless being, and of unparalleled perfection. This glory is due unto his name, to own not only that there is none like him, but that there is none besides him. All others were pretenders, Ps 18:31. Hannah here celebrates four of God's glorious attributes as thus:--

(1.) His unspotted purity. This is that attribute which is most praised in the upper world, by those that always behold his face, Isa 6:3; Re 4:8. When Israel triumphed over the Egyptians God was praised as glorious in holiness, Ex 15:11. So here, in Hannah's triumph, There is none holy as the Lord. It is the rectitude of his nature, his infinite agreement with himself, and the equity of his government and judgment in all the administrations of both. At the remembrance of this we ought to give thanks.

(2.) His almighty power: Neither is there any rock (or any strength, for so the word is sometimes rendered) like our God. Hannah had experienced a mighty support by staying herself upon him, and therefore speaks as she had found, and seems to refer to that of Moses, De 32:31.

(3.) His unsearchable wisdom: The Lord, the Judge of all, is a God of knowledge; he clearly and perfectly sees into the character of every person and the merits of every cause, and he gives knowledge and understanding to those that seek them of him.

(4.) His unerring justice: By him actions are weighed. His own are so, in his eternal counsels; the actions of the children of men are so, in the balances of his judgment, so that he will render to every man according to his work, and is not mistaken in what any man is or does.

If you can wait on God for His visitation, you will also laugh for joy. Obed-Edom, Jabez, Mary the mother of Jesus, Mary Magdalene, and hosts of others experienced divine turn-around when they came in contact with God. Trust Him for your own turn-around; it shall be well with you. The world is waiting for your testimony – “For the earnest expectation of the creature waiteth for the manifestation of the sons of God.” Romans 8:19.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, I receive grace to receive your touch for my total transformation in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 127-130.

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Wednesday, June 28, 2023

PERPLEXED, BUT NOT IN DESPAIR

Thursday, 29TH JUNE, 2023.

Author: PASTOR DR. SAMUEL AYORINDE – General Overseer, Anchor of Life & Redemption Ministry Int’l

TOPIC: PERPLEXED, BUT NOT IN DESPAIR

MEMORIZE: "Many are the afflictions of the righteous: but the LORD delivereth him out of them all." Psalm 34:19.

SCRIPTURE READING: 2 Corinthians 4:8-12.

“We are troubled on every side, yet not distressed; we are perplexed, but not in despair; 9 Persecuted, but not forsaken; cast down, but not destroyed; 10 Always bearing about in the body the dying of the Lord Jesus, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our body. 11 For we which live are alway delivered unto death for Jesus' sake, that the life also of Jesus might be made manifest in our mortal flesh. 12 So then death worketh in us, but life in you.”

EXPOSITION:

Apostle gives an account of their courage and patience under all their sufferings, as we observe how their sufferings and patience under them are declared in 2 Cor. 4:8-12. The apostles were great sufferers; therein they followed their Master: Christ had told them that in the world they should have tribulation, and so they had; yet they met with wonderful support, great relief, and many allays of their sorrows.

"We are," says the apostle, "troubled on every side, afflicted many ways, and we meet with almost all sorts of troubles; yet not distressed, 2 Cor. 4:8. We are not hedged in nor cooped up, because we can see help in God, and help from God, and have liberty of access to God."

Again, "We are perplexed, often uncertain, and in doubt what will become of us, and not always without anxiety in our minds on this account; yet not in despair (2Cor. 4:8), even in our greatest perplexities, knowing that God is able to support us, and to deliver us, and in him we always place our trust and hope."

Again, "We are persecuted by men, pursued with hatred and violence from place to place, as men not worthy to live; yet not forsaken of God," 2 Cor. 4:9. Good men may be sometimes forsaken of their friends, as well as persecuted by their enemies; but God will never leave them nor forsake them.

Again, "We are sometimes dejected, or cast down; the enemy may in a great measure prevail, and our spirits begin to fail us; there may be fears within, as well as fightings without; yet we are not destroyed," 2 Corinthians 4:9.

Still they were preserved, and kept their heads above water. Note, Whatever condition the children of God may be in, in this world, they have a "BUT NOT" to comfort themselves with; their case sometimes is bad, yea very bad, but not so bad as it might be. The apostle speaks of their sufferings as constant, and as a counterpart of the sufferings of Christ, 2 Cor. 4:10. The sufferings of Christ were, after a sort, re-acted in the sufferings of Christians; thus did they bear about the dying of the Lord Jesus in their body, setting before the world the great example of a suffering Christ, that the life of Jesus might also be made manifest, that is, that people might see the power of Christ's resurrection, and the efficacy of grace in and from the living Jesus, manifested in and towards them, who did yet live, though they were always delivered to death (2Co 4:11), and though death worked in them (2Co 4:12), they being exposed to death, and ready to be swallowed up by death continually. So great were the sufferings of the apostles that, in comparison with them, other Christians were, even at this time, in prosperous circumstances: Death works in us; but life in you, 2Co 4:12.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, open our eyes to see you in all our circumstances in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 123-126.

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Tuesday, June 27, 2023

WHAT ELSE DO OUR CHILDREN NEED FROM US WHEN THEY’RE GRIEVING?

WEDNESDAY, 28TH JUNE, 2023.

By Pastor Dr Samuel B. Ayorinde

TOPIC: WHAT ELSE DO OUR CHILDREN NEED FROM US WHEN THEY’RE GRIEVING?

MEMORIZE: "And Ephraim their father mourned many days, and his brethren came to comfort him." 1 Chronicles 7:22

SCRIPTURE READING: Proverbs 22:6

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”

EXPOSITION:

Expectation of our children from the parents is very high. If the parents failed in discharging their responsibilities, the children will be exposed to danger and become victims of evil circumstances. Here are some of the ways we can help our children when in grief.

(1) Our honesty. They need to know we’re hurting too. When they see you crying, but you tell them, “I’m all right,” they’re confused. They think either you’re not hurting, and tears don’t mean anything, or you’re not being real with them. They need to know the genuine you, so they can be real with you and trust you with their hurts.

(2) Our awareness of their feelings without overprotecting them. For them, as for you, “There is a time to weep…mourn…lose” (vv. 4, 6 NKJV). God has made all these experiences “appropriate in its time” (v.11 NAS). Don’t inhibit or invalidate their sadness, anger, and depression. It’s part of their God-given humanness, and will help them become balanced, compassionate adults.

(3) Sensitive listening. Kids learn and grow through loss when they have an open and understanding listener. Listen, then reflect their feelings. “Sounds like you’re angry. Want to talk about it?” Don’t analyze, ask! Listen with your eyes and ears. “Your words say you’re all right, but your eyes suggest you’re sad.”

(4) Permission to express negative emotions. Anger and resentment aimed at doctors, the system, family members, you, even God is normal! Don’t say, “You shouldn’t say such things.” Instead say, “Sounds like a real, honest expression of pain and disappointment. Want to talk more about it?” Expression detoxifies negative emotion.

(5) Include them in your family discussion and decision making. Include them in family gatherings, funeral planning, and services, and they will find comfort in the validation, closure, and healing these times bring!

KEY POINT: Handle the training of children with care and prayers. Be faithful and truthful to them, leading by example.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 120-122.

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HOW CAN WE HELP OUR CHILDREN NAVIGATE LIFE’S LOSSES?

ANCHOR OF LIFE DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE For TUESDAY, 27TH JUNE, 2023.

TOPIC: HOW CAN WE HELP OUR CHILDREN NAVIGATE LIFE’S LOSSES?

MEMORIZE: "If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small." Proverbs 24:10.

SCRIPTURE READING: John 14:1-3

“Let not your heart be troubled: ye believe in God, believe also in me. 2 In my Father's house are many mansions: if it were not so, I would have told you. I go to prepare a place for you. 3 And if I go and prepare a place for you, I will come again, and receive you unto myself; that where I am, there ye may be also.”

EXPOSITION:

In continuation of our on-going study on navigating life's losses, knowing that children too can be sorrowful, we must be available to provide help for them at the right time. A man/child that receives timely help will recover faster from loss than the ones who did not. Therefore, let us look at how we can help our children to understand loss when it comes in order for them to face its reality and be able to come out of it graciously.

(1) Don’t underestimate their capacity for grief. Children are often the “forgotten” grievers. Their pain is real and intense; recognize and validate it. Give them recognition when they are in grief. This will enable you to stand by them and provide comfort, hope and solution to their grief.

(2) Don’t avoid talking about the loss when they’re present. Excluding them from adults in mourning denies them the opportunity for support, and increased understanding about their loss. Include them in the family’s collective grief experience. Don't treat them as if they don't understand or as if they can contribute nothing to your relief.

(3) Encourage them to share their feelings about the loss. Teach them that being “real” is more important than being “strong,” and confirm that their feelings matter. Very young children have limited understanding about the meaning, permanence, and irreversibility of death. They can only talk about it briefly and concretely. Older children understand its meaning and should be encouraged to talk about it.

(4) Make allowance for each child’s personality. Our personality determines our grieving style. Introverted children may need their own space; extroverted ones may need to be verbal and sociable. Dependent children need strong adults around them; independent ones can handle a lot on their own.

(5) Communicate realistically with them. Adults often use language that confuses children. “Your dad has gone home; …fallen asleep; …passed away; …gone to his rest,” etc. Speaking of death as the end of this physical life is biblical, clarifies the significance of the loss, and allows children to ask questions that matter to them. Your children can handle loss, and they can understand that everlasting life is God’s great solution and one day we will join our loved ones in heaven (See John 14:2-3). With this, they should be taught on how to trust God for consolation, hope and relief in the days of evil or loss. May God prevent us from loss and it's griefs in Jesus name.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, help me to see you in my distresses not to despair in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 117-119.

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Sunday, June 25, 2023

FOUR-STAGE PATH TO RECOVERY FROM LOSSES

MONDAY, 26TH JUNE, 2023.

By: PASTOR DR. SAMUEL AYORINDE

Topic: FOUR-STAGE PATH TO RECOVERY FROM LOSSES

MEMORIZE: "And said, Naked came I out of my mother's womb, and naked shall I return thither: the LORD gave, and the LORD hath taken away; blessed be the name of the LORD." Job 1:21.

SCRIPTURE READING: Ecclesiastes 3:1-4, 6

“To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven: 2 A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted; 3 A time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; 4 A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; … 6 A time to get, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to cast away;”

EXPOSITION:

Loss and gain are daily experiences of humanity. Though no one pray for loss, yet it do happen. Losses such as financial loss, material loas, loss of loved ones, loss of reputation, loss of dignity, loss of trust or confidence in people around you, etc. The physical and emotional response to loss is grief, tears and emotional downcast.

RESEARCHERS at the Colorado Institute of Grief offer us this helpful four-stage path to recovery.

Stage one – SHOCK. Our initial response is one of denial and disbelief. “I can’t believe this is happening…it’s not real!” There is a numbing of our senses, a God-designed natural “anesthesia” that buffers the early blow and allows us time to gather our coping mechanisms.

Stage two – PROTEST. We feel anger and resentment against God, yet we feel guilty for blaming Him. We may blame ourselves, the doctors, the patient, and question God’s love and faithfulness—even bargaining with Him. “If You will just do a miracle and bring them back, I will…”

Stage three – DISORGANIZATION. Everything comes apart at the seams. The lifestyle we knew and loved unravels. The dreams we cherished evaporate. We feel hopeless, powerless, lost in a strange, empty universe. Secondary losses may loom: financial insecurity, social dislocation, depression, loss of concentration, etc. We’re convinced that life will never be normal again. We survive moment to moment, afraid to anticipate the road ahead.

Stage four – REORGANIZATION. Unrelenting grief gives way to waves of sadness varying in frequency and intensity. We begin to accept and accommodate our loss. The energy we expended on grief work becomes available again, enabling us to adjust to the demands and opportunities of our new lifestyle. Slowly we reemerge and take hold of the reins again. The process will take many months, and full recovery even years. But God promises it will come! There will be “a time to heal…build up…laugh…dance…gain!” (Ecclesiastes 3:3-4, 6 NKJV).

PRAYER POINT: Lord, be in our life’s situations our comforter and restorer in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 113-116.

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NAVIGATING LIFE’S LOSSES

SUNDAY, 25TH JUNE, 2023.

By: PASTOR DR. SAMUEL AYORINDE –

TOPIC: NAVIGATING LIFE’S LOSSES

MEMORIZE: “Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted” Matthew 5:4.

SCRIPTURE READING: Ecclesiastes 3:4, 6.

"A time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance… A time to gain, and a time to lose.”

EXPOSITION:

GOD’S WORD neither ignores nor minimizes the painful realities of life. Inevitably, we and our loved ones will experience life’s losses: illness, aging, death, divorce, disability, loss of independence, unemployment, financial reversals, etc. Today’s culture prepares us for gain, but not for loss; to dance, but not to mourn (See Ecclesiastes 3:4). Major losses throw us into unchartered territory. So, we need to understand the dynamics of our loss in order to help us through it and back to living again. Life-changing loss begins with bereavement—the agony of feeling that something or someone indispensable to us has been ripped away, leaving us feeling robbed. Then comes grief—searing emotions of overwhelming sorrow that are often accompanied by anger, distress, confusion, and helplessness. Next, we move into the mourning stage—and begin to express our grief and loss. This is the “hard work” stage of tears, memories, and heartrending spasms of weeping that shake us to our very core. We feel guilt and remorse over what we have said or done or not said or done. And our heartache gives those around us opportunity to respond, offering the comfort and reassurance we need to begin healing. This is God’s protocol for healing broken hearts. At 120, the Israelites’ beloved leader died—leaving behind him a grief-stricken nation (See Deuteronomy 34). And God allowed them thirty days to mourn their loss and to comfort one another before resuming the business of life. So take the time you need to do the work of mourning your losses because Jesus said, “Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted” (Matthew 5:4 KJV).

PRAYER POINT: Lord, give us relief from sorrow and grief in Jesus name.

ii. Lord, console the sorrowful and mourners in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 109-112.

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Friday, June 23, 2023

GOOD SHEPHERD: I KNOW MY SHEEP

SATURDAY, 24TH JUNE, 2023.

By PASTOR DR. SAMUEL B. AYORINDE – General Overseer

TOPIC: GOOD SHEPHERD: I KNOW MY SHEEP

MEMORIZE: "I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine." John 10:14

SCRIPTURE READING: John 10:14-16.

14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. 15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.”

EXPOSITION:

See here the grace and tenderness of the good Shepherd that makes him better than the hireling, as it was in the prophecy in Ezekiel 34:21-22 “Because ye have thrust with side and with shoulder, and pushed all the diseased with your horns, till ye have scattered them abroad; Therefore will I save my flock, and they shall no more be a prey; and I will judge between cattle and cattle.”: I am the good Shepherd. It is matter of comfort to the church, and all her friends, that, however she may be damaged and endangered by the treachery and mismanagement of her under-officers, the Lord Jesus is, and will be, as he ever has been, the good Shepherd. Here are two great instances of the shepherd's goodness.

His acquainting himself with his flock, with all that belong or in any wise appertain to his flock, which are of two sorts, both known to him: He is acquainted with all that are now of his flock John 10:14-15, as the good Shepherd John 10:3-4: I know my sheep and am known of mine. There is a mutual acquaintance between Christ and true believers; they know one another very well, and knowledge notes affection.

CHRIST KNOWS HIS SHEEP.

He knows with a distinguishing eye who are his sheep, and who are not; he knows the sheep under their many infirmities, and the goats under their most plausible disguises. He knows with a favourable eye those that in truth are his own sheep; he takes cognizance of their state, concerns himself for them, has a tender and affectionate regard to them, and is continually mindful of them in the intercession he ever lives to make within the veil; he visits them graciously by his Spirit, and has communion with them; he knows them, that is, he approves and accepts of them, as Psalm 1:6 “For the LORD knoweth the way of the righteous: but the way of the ungodly shall perish.”

Psalm 37:18 “The LORD knoweth the days of the upright: and their inheritance shall be for ever.”

Exodus 33:17 “And the LORD said unto Moses, I will do this thing also that thou hast spoken: for thou hast found grace in my sight, and I know thee by name.”

HE IS KNOWN OF THEM.

He observes them with an eye of favour, and they observe him with an eye of faith. Christ's knowing his sheep is put before their knowing him, for he knew and loved us first - 1 John 4:19, and it is not so much our knowing him as our being known of him that is our happiness, Galatians 4:9. Yet it is the character of Christ's sheep that they know him; know him from all pretenders and intruders; they know his mind, know his voice, know by experience the power of his death. Christ speaks here as if he gloried in being known by his sheep, and thought their respect an honour to him. Upon this occasion Christ mentions John 10:15 the mutual acquaintance between his Father and himself: As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father. Now this may be considered, either, First, As the ground of that intimate acquaintance and relation which subsist between Christ and believers. The covenant of grace, which is the bond of this relation, is founded in the covenant of redemption between the Father and the Son, which, we may be sure, stands firm; for the Father and the Son understood one another perfectly well in that matter, and there could be no mistake, which might leave the matter at any uncertainty, or bring it into any hazard. The Lord Jesus knows whom he hath chosen, and is sure of them John 13:18, and they also know whom they have trusted, and are sure of him 2 Timothy 1:12, and the ground of both is the perfect knowledge which the Father and the Son had of one another's mind, when the counsel of peace was between them both.

Or, Secondly, As an apt similitude, illustrating the intimacy that is between Christ and believers. It may be connected with the foregoing words, thus: I know my sheep, and am known of mine, even as the Father knows me, and I know the Father; compare John 17:21.

1. As the Father knew the Son, and loved him, and owned him in his sufferings, when he was led as a sheep to the slaughter, so Christ knows his sheep, and has a watchful tender eye upon them, will be with them when they are left alone, as his Father was with him.

2. As the Son knew the Father, loved and obeyed him, and always did those things that pleased him, confiding in him as his God even when he seemed to forsake him, so believers know Christ with an obediential fiducial regard. Do you know Christ as your Shepherd; and does he know you.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, open my inner eyes to know you nd be known to you s my Great Shepherd in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 106-108.

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ANCHOR OF LIFE is the daily devotional guide written by PASTOR DR. SAMUEL AYORINDE, The General Overseer of Anchor of Life & Redemption Ministry Int’l. It is an extraction of God’s word designed to draw the sincere seekers closer to God on a daily basis through an insightful exposition and analysis of God’s Word. Read, Meditate, Pray and Share this message to others. For prayers, Counseling and further enquiries, call or whatsapp +2347032993319; +2348056130469. Or Email: anchoroflifeministry@gmail.com

CHRIST IS THE GOOD SHEPHERD

FRIDAY, 23RD JUNE, 2023.

By PASTOR DR. SAMUEL AYORINDE – General Overseer

TOPIC: CHRIST IS THE GOOD SHEPHERD

MEMORIZE: "I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep." John 10:11.

SCRIPTURE READING: John 10:7-16

“Then said Jesus unto them again, Verily, verily, I say unto you, I am the door of the sheep. 8 All that ever came before me are thieves and robbers: but the sheep did not hear them. 9 I am the door: by me if any man enter in, he shall be saved, and shall go in and out, and find pasture. 10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly. 11 I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep. 12 But he that is an hireling, and not the shepherd, whose own the sheep are not, seeth the wolf coming, and leaveth the sheep, and fleeth: and the wolf catcheth them, and scattereth the sheep. 13 The hireling fleeth, because he is an hireling, and careth not for the sheep. 14 I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine. 15 As the Father knoweth me, even so know I the Father: and I lay down my life for the sheep. 16 And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.”

EXPOSITION:

Christ is a good shepherd, and not as a hireling. There were many that were not thieves, aiming to kill and destroy the sheep, but passed for shepherds, yet were very careless in the discharge of their duty, and through their neglect the flock was greatly damaged. The word of God called some foolish shepherds, idle shepherds, Zec 11:15,17 “And the LORD said unto me, Take unto thee yet the instruments of a foolish shepherd. Woe to the idol shepherd that leaveth the flock! the sword shall be upon his arm, and upon his right eye: his arm shall be clean dried up, and his right eye shall be utterly darkened.”. In opposition to these,

[1.] Christ here calls himself the good shepherd John 10:11, and again John 10:14, that good Shepherd, whom God had promised. Jesus Christ is the best of shepherds, the best in the world to take the over-sight of souls, none so skilful, so faithful, so tender, as he, no such feeder and leader, no such protector and healer of souls as he.

[2.] He proves himself so, in opposition to all hirelings, as recorded in John 10:12-14. Where observe the carelessness of the unfaithful shepherd described John 10:12-13; he that is a hireling, that is employed as a servant and is paid for his pains, whose own the sheep are not, who has neither profit nor loss by them, sees the wolf coming, or some other danger threatening, and leaves the sheep to the wolf, for in truth he careth not for them. Here is plain reference to that of the idol-shepherd, Zec 11:17. Evil shepherds, magistrates and ministers, are here described both by their bad principles and their bad practices.

THEIR BAD PRINCIPLES, THE ROOT OF THEIR BAD PRACTICES.

What makes those that have the charge of souls in trying times to betray their trust, and in quiet times not to mind it? What makes them false, and trifling, and self-seeking? It is because they are hirelings, and care not for the sheep. That is,

(a.) The wealth of the world is the chief of their good; it is because they are hirelings. They undertook the shepherds' office, as a trade to live and grow rich by, Not as an opportunity of serving Christ and doing good. It is the love of money, and of their own bellies, that carries them on in it. Not that those are hirelings who, while they serve at the altar, live, and live comfortably, upon the altar. The labourer is worthy of his meat; and a scandalous maintenance will soon make a scandalous ministry. But those are hirelings that love the wages more than the work, and set their hearts upon that, as the hireling is said to do, Deuteronomy 24:15 (See 1 Samuel 2:29; Isa 56:11; Micah 3:5,11).

(b.) The work of their place is the least of their care. They value not the sheep, are unconcerned in the souls of others; their business is to be their brothers' lords, not their brothers' keepers or helpers; they seek their own things, and do not, like Timothy, naturally care for the state of souls. What can be expected but that they will flee when the wolf comes. He careth not for the sheep, for he is one whose own the sheep are not. In one respect we may say of the best of the under-shepherds that the sheep are not their own, they have not dominion over them nor property in them (feed my sheep and my lambs, saith Christ); but in respect of dearness and affection they should be their own. Paul looked upon those as his own whom he called his dearly beloved and longed for. Those who do not cordially espouse the church's interests, and make them their own, will not long be faithful to them.

THEIR BAD PRACTICES, THE EFFECT OF THESE BAD PRINCIPLES, John 10:12.

(a.) How basely the hireling deserts his post; when he sees the wolf coming, though then there is most need of him, he leaves the sheep and flees. Those who mind their safety more than their duty are an easy prey to Satan's temptations.

(b.) How fatal the consequences are! The hireling fancies the sheep may look to themselves, but it does not prove so: the wolf catches them, and scatters the sheep, and woeful havoc is made of the flock, which will all be charged upon the treacherous shepherd. The blood of perishing souls is required at the hand of the careless watchmen. Therefore, the shepherds of the Living God, awake to your responsibilities in order to receive the blessings of the Great Shepherd – Jesus Christ. Jesus is the true Shepherd.

PRAYER POINT: Lord help me to be faithful to you and your work in my hand in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 103-105.

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Wednesday, June 21, 2023

I WILL MAKE YOU A TERROR TO YOUR ENEMIES

Thursday, 22ND JUNE, 2023.

I WILL MAKE YOU A TERROR TO YOUR ENEMIES

By Pastor Dr. Samuel Bayonle Ayorinfe

MEMORIZE: "Behold, I will make thee a new sharp threshing instrument having teeth: thou shalt thresh the mountains, and beat them small, and shalt make the hills as chaff." Isaiah 41:15.

SCRIPTURE READING: Isaiah 41:14-16.

“Fear not, thou worm Jacob, and ye men of Israel; I will help thee, saith the LORD, and thy redeemer, the Holy One of Israel. 15 Behold, I will make thee a new sharp threshing instrument having teeth: thou shalt thresh the mountains, and beat them small, and shalt make the hills as chaff. 16 Thou shalt fan them, and the wind shall carry them away, and the whirlwind shall scatter them: and thou shalt rejoice in the LORD, and shalt glory in the Holy One of Israel.”

EXPOSITION:

Becoming a terror to the enemy is gaining freedom from and becoming a threat to the forces that have been dominating and controlling one’s life. It is the will of God that His people should become a terror to those who were now a terror to them, and that victory should turn on their side, Isa 41:14-16. We need to examine how Jacob and Israel are reduced and brought very low before we examine how to be restored.

It is the worm Jacob, so little, so weak, and so defenceless, despised and trampled on by everybody, forced to creep even into the earth for safety; and we must not wonder that Jacob has become a worm, when even Jacob's King calls himself a worm and no man, “But I am a worm, and no man; a reproach of men, and despised of the people.” Psalm 22:6. God's people are sometimes as worms, in their humble thoughts of themselves and their enemies' haughty thoughts of them--worms, but not vipers, as their enemies are, not of the serpent's seed. God regards Jacob's low estate, and says, "Fear not, thou worm Jacob; fear not that thou shalt be crushed; and you men of Israel" (you few men, so some read it, you dead men, so others) "do not give up yourselves for gone notwithstanding."

Note, The grace of God will silence fears even when there seems to be the greatest cause for it. Perplexed but not in despair. How Jacob and Israel are advanced from this low estate, and made as formidable as ever they have been despicable. But by whom shall Jacob arise, for he is small? We are here told: I will help thee, saith the Lord; and it is the honour of God to help the weak. He will help them, for he is their Redeemer, who is wont to redeem them, who has undertaken to do it. Christ is the Redeemer, from him is our help found. He will help them, for he is the Holy One of Israel, worshipped among them in the beauty of holiness and engaged by promise to them. The Lord will help them by enabling them to help themselves and making Jacob to become a threshing instrument.

Observe, He is but an instrument, a tool in God's hand, that he is pleased to make use of; and he is an instrument of God's making and is no more than God makes him. But, if God make him a threshing instrument, he will make use of him, and therefore will make him fit for use, new and sharp, and having teeth, or sharp spikes; and then, by divine direction and strength, thou shalt thresh the mountains, the highest, and strongest, and most stubborn of thy enemies: thou shalt not only beat them, but beat them small; they shall not be as corn threshed out, which is valuable, and is carefully preserved (such God's people are when they are under the thrash, Isaiah 21:10: O my threshing! yet the corn of my floor, that shall not be lost); but these are made as chaff, which is good for nothing, and which the husbandman is glad to get rid of. He pursues the metaphor, Isaiah 41:16. Having threshed them, thou shalt winnow them, and the wind shall scatter them. This shall be accomplished in the final doom of all the ruthless enemies of the church of God, and to have its accomplishment likewise in the triumphs of the cross of Christ, the gospel of Christ, and all the faithful followers of Christ, over the powers of darkness, which, first or last, shall all be dissipated (degenerate), and in Christ all believers shall be more than conquerors, and he that overcomes shall have power over the nations, Revelation 2:26.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, make me a terror to all my enemies in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 99-102.

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Tuesday, June 20, 2023

I WILL FIGHT FOR YOU

WEDNESDAY, 21ST JUNE, 2023.

TOPIC: I WILL FIGHT FOR YOU

MEMORIZE: "But thus saith the LORD, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children." Isaiah 49:25.

SCRIPTURE READING: Isaiah 43:10-13

“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. 11 Behold, all they that were incensed against thee shall be ashamed and confounded: they shall be as nothing; and they that strive with thee shall perish. 12 Thou shalt seek them, and shalt not find them, even them that contended with thee: they that war against thee shall be as nothing, and as a thing of nought. 13 For I the LORD thy God will hold thy right hand, saying unto thee, Fear not; I will help thee.”

EXPOSITION:

One of the titles of God is “The Lord Strong and Mighty” “The Lord Mighty in Battle” – Psalm 24:8, 10. “The Man of War” – Exodus 15:3. By this name, He is fighting in defense of His children. On several occasions he has promised and acted as enemy to the enemies of His children, Israelites. In our today’s scripture reading, God gave His people reasons not to fear – He will be an enemy to their enemies. Though their enemies be now very formidable, insolent, and severe, yet the day is coming when God will reckon with them and they shall triumph over them. There are those that are incensed against God's people, that strive with them (Isa 41:11), that war against them (Isa 41:12), that hate them, that seek their ruin, and are continually picking quarrels with them. But let not God's people be incensed at them, nor strive with them, nor render evil for evil; but wait for God's time, and believe,

1. That they shall be convinced of the folly, at least, if not of the sin of striving with God's people; and, finding it to no purpose, they shall be ashamed and confounded, which might bring them to repentance, but will rather fill them with rage.

2. That they shall be quite ruined and undone (Isa 41:11): They shall be as nothing before the justice and power of God. When God comes to deal with his proud enemies he makes nothing of them. Or they shall be brought to nothing, shall be as if they had never been. This is repeated (Isa 41:12): They shall be as nothing and as a thing of nought, or as that which is gone and has failed. Those that were formidable shall become despicable; those that fancied they could do anything shall be able to bring nothing to pass; those that made a figure in the world, and a mighty noise, shall become mere ciphers and be buried in silence. They shall perish, not only be nothing, but be miserable: Thou shalt seek them, shalt enquire what has become of them, but they would not appear as usual or existing as David said, “I have seen the wicked in great power, and spreading himself like a green bay tree. Yet he passed away, and, lo, he was not: yea, I sought him, but he could not be found.” Ps 37:35-36.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, fight my battle for me and let me celebrate great victory over my enemies in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 95-98.

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ANCHOR OF LIFE is the daily devotional guide written by PASTOR DR. SAMUEL AYORINDE, General Overseer, Anchor of Life & Redemption Ministry Int’l. It is an extraction of God’s word designed to draw the sincere seekers closer to God on a daily basis through an insightful exposition and analysis of God’s Word. Read, Meditate, Pray and Share this message to others. For prayers, Counseling and further enquiries, call or whatsapp +2347032993319; +2348056130469. Or Email: anchoroflifeministry@gmail.com

Monday, June 19, 2023

FEAR NOT, I WILL SAVE YOU.

Tuesday, 20TH JUNE, 2023

TOPIC: FEAR NOT, I WILL SAVE YOU.

MEMORIZE: "Therefore fear thou not, O my servant Jacob, saith the LORD; neither be dismayed, O Israel: for, lo, I will save thee from afar, and thy seed from the land of their captivity; and Jacob shall return, and shall be in rest, and be quiet, and none shall make him afraid." Jeremiah 30:10.

SCRIPTURE READING: Isaiah 43:10-13

EXPOSITION:

The scope of Isaiah 41:10-20 is to silence the fears, and encourage the faith, of the servants of God in their distresses. Perhaps it is intended, in the first place, for the support of God's Israel, in captivity; but all that faithfully serve God through patience and comfort of this scripture may have hope. And it is addressed to Israel as a single person, that it might be more easily and readily be accommodated and applied by every Israelite. That is a word of caution, counsel, and comfort, which is so often repeated, Fear thou not; and again (Isa 41:13), Fear not; and (Isa 41:14), "Fear not, thou worm Jacob; fear not the threatenings of the enemy, doubt not the promises of thy God; fear not that thou shalt perish in thy affliction or that the promise of thy deliverance shall fail."

It is against the mind of God that his people should be a timorous (fearful) people. For the suppressing of fear he assures them that they should depend upon his presence with them as their God, and a God all-sufficient for them in the worst of times. Observe with what tenderness of God speaks, and how willing he is to let the heirs of promise know the immutability of his counsel, and how desirous to make them easy: “Fear thou not, for I am with thee,” - not only within call, but present with thee. Be not dismayed at the power of those that are against thee, for I am thy God, and engaged for thee. Art thou weak? I will strengthen thee. Art thou destitute of friends? I will help thee in the time of need. Art thou ready to sink, ready to fall? I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness, that right hand which is full of righteousness, in dispensing rewards and punishments," Ps 48:10.

And again (Isa 41:13) it is promised,

1. That God will strengthen their hands, that is, will help them: "I will hold thy right hand, go hand in hand with thee" Isaiah 41:13. He will take us by the hand as our guide, to lead us in our way, will help us up when we are fallen or prevent our falls; when we are weak he will hold us up--wavering, he will fix us--trembling, he will encourage us, and so hold us by the right hand, Ps 73:23.

2. That he will silence their fears: Saying unto thee, Fear not. He has said it again and again in his word, and has there provided sovereign antidotes against fear: but he will go further; he will by his Spirit say it to their hearts, and make them to hear it, and so will help them.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, open my eyes to see victory in trusting your help and to fear not in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 91-94.

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A PASSIONATE PRAYER

ANCHOR OF LIFE DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

MONDAY, 19TH JUNE, 2023.

A PASSIONATE PRAYER

MEMORIZE: "And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested" (1 Chronicles 4:10).

SCRIPTURE READING: 1 CHRONICLES 4:1-10.

“And Jabez was more honourable than his brethren: and his mother called his name Jabez, saying, Because I bare him with sorrow. 10 And Jabez called on the God of Israel, saying, Oh that thou wouldest bless me indeed, and enlarge my coast, and that thine hand might be with me, and that thou wouldest keep me from evil, that it may not grieve me! And God granted him that which he requested.”

EXPOSITION

God is a changeless changer of man, his situations and circumstances. He provides perfect solutions to man's problems. The case of Jabez in our text is a classic example of how a bad life scenario was dramatically changed through a thoughtful and wise decision to approach God who alone has the power to make and unmake every situation through prayer and faith.

This Israelite, whose life had become synonymous with failure, shame and sorrows, had to break off the chains of frustration and disappointment when he made a heartrending prayer to God to rewrite the story of his life. God heard and granted his request. The after effect of his passionate prayer was that God made an honorable man of an erstwhile nobody. Our God is waiting for more sons and daughters who will dare pray to Him like Jabez, so that He would bless them.

The story of your life can be rewritten today if you will humbly approach the Lord in penitence for your sins and pride - beseech Him to cleanse you and clear every debt of sin you owe which demands judgement. The faithful Judge of repentant sinners will discharge and acquit you this day. You will have peace like a river and prosper like Jabez did. Through passionate prayer, we can bring succour to our helpless world. Call upon the One who answers prayers now and see things change in your life and ministry.

KEY POINT: Prayer remains the key that opens heaven's doors of abundance and prosperity.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 88-90.

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Saturday, June 17, 2023

TOWARD HAVING HAPPY HOME: “ABC” OF SOLVING PROBLEMS IN THE HOME

SUNDAY, 18TH JUNE, 2023.

TOPIC: TOWARD HAVING HAPPY HOME: “ABC” OF SOLVING PROBLEMS IN THE HOME

MEMORIZE: "And Sarai said unto Abram, My wrong be upon thee: I have given my maid into thy bosom; and when she saw that she had conceived, I was despised in her eyes: the LORD judge between me and thee." Genesis 16:5.

SCRIPTURE READING: Genesis 16:1-6

“Now Sarai Abram's wife bare him no children: and she had an handmaid, an Egyptian, whose name was Hagar. 2 And Sarai said unto Abram, Behold now, the LORD hath restrained me from bearing: I pray thee, go in unto my maid; it may be that I may obtain children by her. And Abram hearkened to the voice of Sarai. 3 And Sarai Abram's wife took Hagar her maid the Egyptian, after Abram had dwelt ten years in the land of Canaan, and gave her to her husband Abram to be his wife. 4 And he went in unto Hagar, and she conceived: and when she saw that she had conceived, her mistress was despised in her eyes. 5 And Sarai said unto Abram, My wrong be upon thee: I have given my maid into thy bosom; and when she saw that she had conceived, I was despised in her eyes: the LORD judge between me and thee. 6 But Abram said unto Sarai, Behold, thy maid is in thy hand; do to her as it pleaseth thee. And when Sarai dealt hardly with her, she fled from her face.”

EXPOSITION:

Crisis is one of the recurrent issues in the home. Inability to solve it at the right time usually leads to broken hearts and possibly homes. We must learn to solve our crisis in good time before it grows worse. This is the list of ABC of solving marital problem in our home. As we believe in God for His intervention, if we can practice these guideline, our home will surely be happy home.

A – Attack your problems, but accept your partner

B – Blame others for your problem and they will never be solved. Admit your fault; don’t pass the buck.

C – Create a free atmosphere to discuss and rub minds.

D – Defend the problem and excuse yourself and nothing positive will follow.

E – Examine yourself. Self-examination exposes your contribution to the problem.

F – Face issues with maturity and throw away self pity.

G – Give your problem good fight of faith, using spiritual weapon.

H - Handle each problem on daily basis. Hostility is the result of the sleeping with accumulated problems.

I – Identify where the frictions are coming from and ensure to block them.

J – Just refuse to allow jealousy. It is as cruel as grave.

K – Kneel before God in prayers. Prayer changes things.

L – Learn from the problem you have gone through.

M – Meditate on the positive quality of your partner.

N – Neglect gossip and hear-say from neighbours and friends.

O – Open up to each other.

P – Persevere and be patient.

R – Recognize that Satan has interest in your marriage; keep him off.

S – Study the problem without any pressure and you will find solution.

T – Take that little problem away between you so that it does not become a barrier.

U – Understand your partner and always put a positive construction or his/her action.

V – Verify the truth of every matter before you take action.

W – Walk together with your partner for a godly, lasting solution to the problems.

X – X means a cross roads formed by two lines, not facing the same direction. Avoid having cross-roads in your family.

Y – Yield yourselves one to another.

Z – Zealously bring your thoughts, passions and actions under control while thinking on the solution.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, help me to play my roles in having a happy home in Jesus name.

ii. Lord, rebuke satan over my home in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 84-87.

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Friday, June 16, 2023

IRRECOVERABLE FAILURE

Saturday, 17TH JUNE, 2023.

TOPIC: IRRECOVERABLE FAILURE

MEMORIZE: “…Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.” 1 Samuel 15:23.

SCRIPTURE READING: 1 Samuel 15:19-23.

“"Why then did you not obey the voice of the LORD? Why did you swoop down on the spoil, and do evil in the sight of the LORD?" 20 And Saul said to Samuel, "But I have obeyed the voice of the LORD, and gone on the mission on which the LORD sent me, and brought back Agag king of Amalek; I have utterly destroyed the Amalekites. 21 "But the people took of the plunder, sheep and oxen, the best of the things which should have been utterly destroyed, to sacrifice to the LORD your God in Gilgal." 22 Then Samuel said: "Has the LORD as great delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices, As in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to heed than the fat of rams. 23 For rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft, And stubbornness is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He also has rejected you from being king."”

EXPOSITION:

Son is failure to meet the standard of God's righteousness. All men born of women are all sinners and come short of the glory of God. David was a man of many mistakes, but he do repent from them from time to time and would not return into it again. His knowledge of God helped him always to repent at the right time.

But there is a failure called irreparable, too late to correct (amend). When men have gone too far to repent or when God’s patience over a man is exhausted and God declared such a man rejected.

King Asa was a man who knew and served God of Israel with faithfulness all through his life and God was faithful to him too in defending him from the enemies. But towards the end of his life, his love and dedication for God diminished. He spent the last two years of his life being detached from God, his strength. God gave him the opportunity to make his way right before it is too late, so that He can heal him, but he refused. It is written: “And Asa in the thirty and ninth year of his reign was diseased in his feet, until his disease was exceeding great: yet in his disease he sought not to the LORD, but to the physicians. And Asa slept with his fathers, and died in the one and fortieth year of his reign” 1 Chronicles 16:12-13.

King Saul was another example of irrecoverable failure. King Saul became disobedient unto the leading of God and God rejects him from reigning over his people. “And Samuel said to Saul, Thou hast done foolishly: thou hast not kept the commandment of the LORD thy God, which he commanded thee: for now would the LORD have established thy kingdom upon Israel for ever. But now thy kingdom shall not continue: the LORD hath sought him a man after his own heart, and the LORD hath commanded him to be captain over his people, because thou hast not kept that which the LORD commanded thee.” 1 Samuel 13:13-14.

In 1 Samuel 15:23, Samuel also says, “…Because thou hast rejected the word of the LORD, he hath also rejected thee from being king.” 1 Samuel 15:23. Since he rejected the Lord, therefore God has rejected him, despised and cast him off from being king over His people. Samuel was saying, He that made thee king has determined to unmake thee again." Irreparable failure makes a man a perpetual failure and unusable for God.

Examine yourself today, what are you doing? When God rejected Saul, he raised a substitute to replace him, David, a man after His heart. Have you not been replaced in the kingdom service? If you are still alive with Him, then, hear this, “Therefore let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall.” 1 Cor. 19:12. But if you sense you are no more relevant in the hand of God like before, it is dangerous. Come back to God and plead for His mercy for restoration before it is too late. Cry unto Him even with tears, until He shows you mercy.

KEY POINT: Those who are not willing that God should rule over them are unfit and unworthy to rule over men.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 80-83.

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Thursday, June 15, 2023

BEHOLD! I SEND MY ANGEL BEFORE YOU.

ANCHOR OF LIFE DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE For Friday, 16TH JUNE, 2023.

Author: PASTOR DR. SAMUEL AYORINDE – General Overseer, Anchor of Life & Redemption Ministry Int’l

TOPIC: BEHOLD! I SEND MY ANGEL BEFORE YOU.

MEMORIZE: "Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared." Exodus 23:20.

SCRIPTURE READING: Exodus 23:20-23

“Behold, I send an Angel before thee, to keep thee in the way, and to bring thee into the place which I have prepared. 21 Beware of him, and obey his voice, provoke him not; for he will not pardon your transgressions: for my name is in him. 22 But if thou shalt indeed obey his voice, and do all that I speak; then I will be an enemy unto thine enemies, and an adversary unto thine adversaries. 23 For mine Angel shall go before thee, and bring thee in unto the Amorites, and the Hittites, and the Perizzites, and the Canaanites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites: and I will cut them off.”

EXPOSITION:

Angels are special messengers of God. The received instruction from God deliver it to men. Whenever men display special act of goodness to some people, they are regarded as angels in the character. God told the children of Israel in their wilderness journey that He would send His angel to go before the, to bring down their enemies before them. It is here promised that they should be guided and kept in their way through the wilderness to the land of promise by His angel: “Behold, I send an angel before thee” (Ex 23:20), my angel (Ex 23:23), a created angel, say some, a minister of God's providence, employed in conducting and protecting the camp of Israel; that it might appear that God took a particular care of them, he appointed one of his chief servants to make it his business to attend them, and see that they wanted for nothing. Others suppose it to be the Son of God, the angel of the covenant; for the Israelites in the wilderness are said to tempt Christ; and we may as well suppose him God's messenger, and the church's Redeemer, before his incarnation, as the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world. And we may the rather think he was pleased to undertake the deliverance and guidance of Israel because they were typical of his great undertaking. It is promised that this blessed angel should keep them in the way, though it lay through a wilderness first, and afterwards through their enemies' country; thus God's spiritual Israel shall be kept through the wilderness of this earth, and from the insults of the gates of hell. It is also promised that he should bring them into the place which God had not only designed but prepared for them: and thus Christ has prepared a place for his followers, and will preserve them to it, for he is faithful to him that appointed him. The precept joined with this promise is that they be observant of, and obedient to, this angel whom God would send before them (Ex 23:21): "Beware of him, and obey his voice in everything; provoke him not in any thing, for it is at your peril if you do, he will visit your iniquity."

Note,

1. Christ is the author of salvation to those only that obey him. The word of command is “Hear you him,” Matthew 17:5. Observe what he hath commanded, Mt 28:20.

2. Our necessary dependence upon the divine power and goodness should awe us into obedience. We do well to take heed of provoking our protector and benefactor, because if our defence depart from us, and the streams of his goodness be cut off, we are undone. Therefore, "Beware of him, and carry it towards him with all possible reverence and caution. Fear the Lord, and his goodness."

3. Christ will be faithful to those who are faithful to him, and will espouse their cause who adhere to his: I will be an adversary to thine adversaries, Ex 23:22. The league shall be offensive and defensive, like that with Abraham, I will bless him that blesseth thee, and curse him that curseth thee – Genesis 12:3. Thus is God pleased to twist his interests and friendships with his people's.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, send your angel of guidance before me to lead me in all my ways in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 76-79.

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Wednesday, June 14, 2023

THE CONSEQUENCES OF WILLFUL DISOBEDIENCE – Part 3:

THURSDAY, 15TH JUNE, 2023.

TOPIC: THE CONSEQUENCES OF WILLFUL DISOBEDIENCE – Part 3:

I SHOULD SOON HAVE SUBDUED THEIR ENEMIES

MEMORIZE: " if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth: The LORD shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face: they shall come out against thee one way, and flee before thee seven ways." Deuteronomy 28:1, 7.

SCRIPTURE READING: Psalm 81:13-16

“13 Oh that my people had hearkened unto me, and Israel had walked in my ways! 14 I should soon have subdued their enemies, and turned my hand against their adversaries. 15 The haters of the LORD should have submitted themselves unto him: but their time should have endured forever. 16 He should have fed them also with the finest of the wheat: and with honey out of the rock should I have satisfied thee."

EXPOSITION:

Victory over the enemy is the utmost desire of every man. It guarantees safety, peace and joy. And because of the strength of the enemy, we must trust God for defence – “Because of his strength will I wait upon thee: for God is my defence.” - Psalm 59:9.

What then was the duty that God required from the children of Israel (and the believers) as the condition of all His mercy? He expected no more than that they should hearken to him, as a scholar to his teacher, to receive his instructions--as a servant to his master, to receive his commands; and that they should walk in his ways, those ways of the Lord which are right and pleasant, that they should observe the institutions of his ordinances and attend the intimations of his providence. There was nothing unreasonable in this.

Observe how the reason of the withholding of the mercy is laid in their neglect of the duty: If they had hearkened to me, I would soon have subdued their enemies. National sin or disobedience is the great and only thing that retards and obstructs national deliverance. When I would have healed Israel, and set everything to-rights among them, then the iniquity of Ephraim was discovered, and so a stop was put to the cure, Hosea 7:1. We are appropriate to say, "If we had obeyed God and allowed him to fight for us, we should soon have subdued our enemies:" but we mistake; if we had hearkened to God, and kept to our duty, the thing would have been done, but it is sin that makes our troubles long and salvation slow. And this is that which God himself complains of, and wishes it had been otherwise. Therefore God would have us do our duty to him, trust and obey him, that we may be qualified to receive favour from him. He delights in our serving him, not because he is the better for it, but because we shall be. In obeying Him, we shall be more than conquerors, for “If God be for us, who can be against us? ... we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. ” Romans 8:31, 37.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, help me to key into your purpose and to enjoy the victory in your name in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 73-75.

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Tuesday, June 13, 2023

THE CONSEQUENCES OF WILLFUL DISOBEDIENCE - Part 2

TOPIC: THE CONSEQUENCES OF WILLFUL DISOBEDIENCE – Part 2:

O THAT MY PEOPLE HAD HEARKENED!

MEMORIZE: "Oh, that My people would listen to Me, That Israel would walk in My ways!" Psalm 81:13.

SCRIPTURE READING: Psalm 81:8-12

“8 Hear, O My people, and I will admonish you! O Israel, if you will listen to Me! 9 There shall be no foreign god among you; Nor shall you worship any foreign god. 10 I am the LORD your God, Who brought you out of the land of Egypt; Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it. 11 "But My people would not heed My voice, And Israel would have none of Me. 12 So I gave them over to their own stubborn heart, To walk in their own counsels. 13 "Oh, that My people would listen to Me, That Israel would walk in My ways! 14 I would soon subdue their enemies, And turn My hand against their adversaries. 15 The haters of the LORD would pretend submission to Him, But their fate would endure forever. 16 He would have fed them also with the finest of wheat; And with honey from the rock I would have satisfied you."

EXPOSITION:

He testifies his good-will to them in wishing they had done well for themselves. He saw how sad their case was, and how sure their ruin, when they were delivered up to their own lusts; that is worse than being given up to Satan, which may be in order to reformation (1 Timothy 1:20) and to salvation (1 Corinthians 5:5); but to be delivered up to their own hearts' lusts is to be sealed under condemnation. It was similar to when God says “He that is filthy, let him be filthy still.” What fatal end this will lead a man to! Now here God looks upon them with pity, and shows that it was with reluctance that he thus abandoned them to their folly and fate. “How shall I give thee up, Ephraim?” Hosea 11:8-9.

Observe these facts, The great mercy God had in store for his people, and which he would have wrought for them if they had been obedient includes.

(1.) He would have given them victory over their enemies and would soon have completed the reduction of them. They should not only have kept their ground, but have gained their point, against the remaining Canaanites, and their encroaching vexatious neighbours (Psalm 81:14): I should have subdued their enemies; and it is God only that is to be depended on for the subduing of our enemies. Not would had have put them to the expense and fatigue of a tedious war: he would soon have done it; for he would have turned his hand against their adversaries, and then they would not have been able to stand before them. It intimates how easily he would have done it and without any difficulty. With the turn of a hand, nay, with the breath of his mouth, shall he slay the wicked, Isaiah 11:4. If he but turn his hand, the haters of the Lord will submit themselves to him (Psalm 81:15); and, though they are not brought to love him, yet they shall be made to fear him and to confess that he is too hard for them and that it is in vain to contend with him. God is honoured, and so is his Israel, by the submission of those that have been in rebellion against them, though it be but a forced and feigned submission.

(2.) He would have confirmed and perpetuated their posterity, and established it upon sure and lasting foundations.

(3.) In spite of all the attempts of their enemies against them, their time should have endured forever, and they should never have been disturbed in the possession of the good land God had given them, much less evicted and turned out of possession.

(4.) He would have given them great plenty of all good things (Psalm 81:16): He should have fed them with the finest of the wheat, with the best grain and the best of the kind. Wheat was the staple commodity of Canaan, and they exported a great deal of it, Ezekiel 27:17.

(5.) He would not only have provided for them the best sort of bread, but with honey out of the rock would he have satisfied them. Besides the precious products of the fruitful soil, that there might not be a barren spot in all their land, even the clefts of the rock should serve for bee-hives and in them they should find honey in abundance.

"He made him ride in the heights of the earth, That he might eat the produce of the fields; He made him draw honey from the rock, And oil from the flinty rock; Curds from the cattle, and milk of the flock, With fat of lambs; And rams of the breed of Bashan, and goats, With the choicest wheat; And you drank wine, the blood of the grapes.” Deuteronomy 32:13-14. In short, God designed to make them every way easy and happy.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, help me to return to you wholeheartedly that I may recover all I have lost to disobedience in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 69-72.

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Monday, June 12, 2023

THE CONSEQUENCE OF WILLFUL DISOBEDIENCE - Part 1

TOPIC: THE CONSEQUENCE OF WILLFUL DISOBEDIENCE – Part 1:

SO I GAVE THEM UP UNTO THEIR OWN HEARTS' LUSTS

MEMORIZE: "But My people would not heed My voice, And Israel would have none of Me. So I gave them over to their own stubborn heart, To walk in their own counsels." Psalm 81:11-12.

SCRIPTURE READING: Proverbs 1:24-28.

“Because I have called and you refused, I have stretched out my hand and no one regarded, 25 Because you disdained all my counsel, And would have none of my rebuke, 26 I also will laugh at your calamity; I will mock when your terror comes, 27 When your terror comes like a storm, And your destruction comes like a whirlwind, When distress and anguish come upon you. 28 "Then they will call on me, but I will not answer; They will seek me diligently, but they will not find me.”

EXPOSITION:

Whenever men choose to willfully disobey God, after many warnings, God do give men the wish of their heart – which is called “the lust of their hearts”. Its consequence is that in the days of calamity, when they call unto God for help, He will not answer them –Proverbs 1:24-28. We have examples of many people who chose marital partner wrongly, when the storms rage and called on God for His intervention, He remained silent and unresponsive.

Psalm 81:12: So I gave them up unto their own hearts' lusts, which would be more dangerous enemies and more mischievous oppressors to them than any of the neighbouring nations ever were. God withdrew his Spirit from them, took off the bridle of restraining grace, left them to themselves, and justly; they will do as they will, and therefore let them do as they will. “Ephraim is joined to idols; let him alone.” Hosea 4:17. It is a righteous thing with God to give those up to their own hearts' lusts that indulge them, and give up themselves to be led by them; for why should his Spirit always strive? His grace is his own, and he is debtor to no man, and yet, as he never gave his grace to any that could say they deserved it, so he never took it away from any but such as had first forfeited it: They would none of me, so I gave them up; let them take their course. And see what follows: They walked in their own counsels, in the way of their heart and in the sight of their eye, both in their worships and in their conversations.

"I left them to do as they would, and then they did all that was ill;" they walked in their own counsels, and not according to the counsels of God and his advice. God therefore was not the author of their sin; he left them to the lusts of their own hearts and the counsels of their own heads; if they do not well, the blame must lie upon their own hearts and the blood upon their own heads.

Dear reader, that which you are doing today, it is the will of God? Did He approve it? If not what He sent you, then it will never gain His support and blessings. Learn form king Saul, when he chose the life of disobedience, he was rejected by God. He later sought God but could not find Him either through the prophets, dream or Urim and Thummim – 1 Samuel 28:6: “And when Saul enquired of the LORD, the LORD answered him not, neither by dreams, nor by Urim, nor by prophets.” Examine yourself today and return unto the Lord in total obedience before it is too late. I pray it will not be too late for you as it was for King Saul In Jesus name.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, help me never to desert you for anything in my life in Jesus name.

ii. Lord, do not leave me alone to myself in any way in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 65-68.

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Sunday, June 11, 2023

WILLFUL DISOBEDIENCE OF GOD’S PEOPLE

WILLFUL DISOBEDIENCE OF GOD’S PEOPLE.

MEMORIZE: "But My people would not heed My voice, And Israel would have none of Me." Psalm 81:11.

SCRIPTURE READING: Psalm 81:8-12

EXPOSITION:

The key to a continuous relationship with God is obedience to His leading. Disobedience is always a willful action against God and His will. God asked the children of Israel to seek Him, but they refused. He charges them with a high contempt of his authority as their lawgiver and his grace and favour as their benefactor. He had done much for them, and designed to do more; but all in vain: "My people would not hearken to my voice, but turned a deaf ear to all I said." Psalm 81:11.

Two things God complains of:--

1. Their disobedience to his commands. They did hear his voice, so as never any people did; but they would not hearken to it, they would not be ruled by it, neither by the law nor by the reason of it.

2. Their dislike of his covenant-relation to them: They would none of me. They consented not in my word (so the Chaldee); God was willing to be to them a God, but they were not willing to be to him a people; they did not like his terms.

"I Would Have Gathered Them, But They Would Not." They had none of him; and why had they not? It was not because they might not; they were fairly invited into covenant with God. It was not because they could not; for the word was nigh them, even in their mouth and in their heart. But it was purely because they would not. God calls them his people, for they were bought by him, bound to him, his by a thousand ties, and yet even they had not hearkened, had not obeyed. "Israel, the seed of Jacob my friend, set me at nought, and would have none of me." Psalm 81:11. All the wickedness of the wicked world is owing to the willfulness of the wicked will. The reason why people are not religious is because they will not be so.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, forgive me of my act of disobedience and rebellion. Help me to obey you and prosper by it in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 61-64.

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Saturday, June 10, 2023

RAISING GODLY CHILDREN IN AN UNGODLY ENVIRONMENT

MEMORIZE: "Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners." 1 Cor. 15:33.

SCRIPTURE READING: 1 Samuel 2:12-19.

“Now the sons of Eli were corrupt; they did not know the LORD. 13 And the priests' custom with the people was that when any man offered a sacrifice, the priest's servant would come with a three-pronged fleshhook in his hand while the meat was boiling. 14 Then he would thrust it into the pan, or kettle, or caldron, or pot; and the priest would take for himself all that the fleshhook brought up. So they did in Shiloh to all the Israelites who came there. 15 Also, before they burned the fat, the priest's servant would come and say to the man who sacrificed, "Give meat for roasting to the priest, for he will not take boiled meat from you, but raw." 16 And if the man said to him, "They should really burn the fat first; then you may take as much as your heart desires," he would then answer him, "No, but you must give it now; and if not, I will take it by force." 17 Therefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD, for men abhorred the offering of the LORD. 18 But Samuel ministered before the LORD, even as a child, wearing a linen ephod. 19 Moreover his mother used to make him a little robe, and bring it to him year by year when she came up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice.”

EXPOSITION:

Since the fall of man in the garden of Eden, the earth has been polluted. The rate at which corruption is spreading and getting rooted is beyond measure to the extent that nowhere can be said to be safe. In Genesis 6:5-7, God examine the earth “Then the LORD saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. 6 And the LORD was sorry that He had made man on the earth, and He was grieved in His heart. 7 So the LORD said, "I will destroy man whom I have created from the face of the earth, both man and beast, creeping thing and birds of the air, for I am sorry that I have made them."” At that time, people had become completely opposite of the divine purpose for them, that God had to decide to destroy them and all animals that were on earth. It was just the grace of God that spared Noah from the destruction. The environment has truly become polluted through corruption and obedience.

Because of this general corruption, God sometimes not looking for many people in such an environment to be righteous but one man – Ezekiel 22:29-31 “29 The people of the land have used oppressions, committed robbery, and mistreated the poor and needy; and they wrongfully oppress the stranger. 30 "So I sought for a man among them who would make a wall, and stand in the gap before Me on behalf of the land, that I should not destroy it; but I found no one. 31 "Therefore I have poured out My indignation on them; I have consumed them with the fire of My wrath; and I have recompensed their deeds on their own heads," says the Lord GOD.”.

Therefore, to raise a godly child in such an evil environment calls for divine intervention. The person must have divine encounter that will keep him safe with the surrounding pollution. Our Scripture reading for today gave the example of Samuel growing in the midst of the rebellious sons of Eli. They were capable of polluting him, but the godly counsel of his mother and his personal encounter with God would not allow him to be influenced. The Bible says, “17 Therefore the sin of the young men was very great before the LORD, for men abhorred the offering of the LORD. 18 But Samuel ministered before the LORD, even as a child, wearing a linen ephod. 19 Moreover his mother used to make him a little robe, and bring it to him year by year when she came up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice.” 1 Samuel 2:17-19.

Today, the spiritual motherly role that is lacking in the lives of the children made them wayward. No fear of God because the supposed guiding (spiritual and biological parents) are not on their duty post. The gate to the future destinies of the children were left opened that enemy was able to capture it unresisted.

To Raise Godly Children In An Polluted Environment, We Need:

1. Godly parental advice and supervision. 1 Samuel 2:18-19.

2. Our children themselves then personal encounter with God. Samuel, Moses, David, Daniel, etc all had encounter with God before they could stand out for righteousness.

3. The word of God must be our closest friend and guidance – Psalm 119:11 “Thy word have I hid in mine heart, that I might not sin against thee.”

4. Holy Spirit must be our senior Partner. Let Him order your step. “But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, He will teach you all things, and bring to your remembrance all things that I said to you.” John 14:26.

5. Both the parents and the children must fear God. His fear is the one that keeps us away from doing evil. “The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments: his praise endureth for ever.” Psalm 111:10.

6. Parental Intercession – “pray without ceasing.” 1 Thessalonians 5:17.

7. Be careful of who you walk with. Walk with likeminded people. "Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners." 1 Cor. 15:33. “Can two walk together, unless they are agreed?” Amos 3:3. “Do not enter the path of the wicked, And do not walk in the way of evil. 15 Avoid it, do not travel on it; Turn away from it and pass on. 16 For they do not sleep unless they have done evil; And their sleep is taken away unless they make someone fall. 17 For they eat the bread of wickedness, And drink the wine of violence.” Proverbs 4:14-17.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, help us not to fail our responsibility over our children in Jesus name.

ii. Lord, help us to raise godly children in this world of corruption in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 57-60.

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ANCHOR OF LIFE is the daily devotional guide written by PASTOR DR. SAMUEL AYORINDE, General Overseer, Anchor of Life & Redemption Ministry Int’l.

It is an extraction of God’s word designed to draw the sincere seekers closer to God on a daily basis through an insightful exposition and analysis of God’s Word. Read, Meditate, Pray and Share this message to others. For prayers, Counseling and further enquiries, call or whatsapp +2347032993319; +2348056130469. Or Email: anchoroflifeministry@gmail.com

Friday, June 9, 2023

GOD WILL GUIDE YOU, ONLY IF YOU WILL LISTEN TO HIM

ANCHOR OF LIFE DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE For SATURDAY, 10TH JUNE, 2023.

TOPIC: GOD WILL GUIDE YOU, ONLY IF YOU WILL LISTEN TO HIM

MEMORIZE: "Now it shall come to pass, if you diligently obey the voice of the Lord your God, to observe carefully all His commandments which I command you today, that the Lord your God will set you high above all nations of the earth.” — Deuteronomy 28:1 (NKJV)

SCRIPTURE READING: Psalm 81:8-12

“Hear, O My people, and I will admonish you! O Israel, if you will listen to Me! 9 There shall be no foreign god among you; Nor shall you worship any foreign god. 10 I am the LORD your God, Who brought you out of the land of Egypt; Open your mouth wide, and I will fill it. 11 "But My people would not heed My voice, And Israel would have none of Me. 12 So I gave them over to their own stubborn heart, To walk in their own counsels.” (NKJV).

EXPOSITION:

Communication and guidance makes the relationship stronger and brings safety. We sometimes find ourselves in troubles and pains that we could have avoid if we have not stray away from God. He loves and cares for us that He wants us to build an intimate relationship with Him and trust His guidance as to obey Him. In this Psalm 81, God, by the psalmist, here speaks to Israel, and in them to us, on whom the ends of the world are come. Let us learn two important lessons from what God demands from them.

I. GOD DEMANDS THEIR DILIGENT AND SERIOUS ATTENTION TO WHAT HE WAS ABOUT TO SAY (Ps 81:8):

"Hear, O my people! and who should hear me if my people will not? I have heard and answered thee; now wilt thou hear me? Hear what is said with the greatest solemnity and the most unquestionable certainty, for it is what I will testify unto thee. Do not only give me the hearing, but hearken unto me, that is, be advised by me, be ruled by me." It is one thing to hear, but most important thing is to listen. Listening connotes understanding and carrying out the instructions as demanded. This eventually produce obedience that leads to blessings - Deuteronomy 28:1-2.

Nothing could be more reasonably nor more justly expected, and yet God puts an "if" upon it: "If thou wilt hearken unto me. It is thy interest to do so, and yet it is questionable whether thou wilt or not; for thy neck is an iron sinew." The choice to either listen to God or not is ours. God calls for our obedient response to His leading.

II. GOD REMINDS THEM OF THEIR OBLIGATION TO HIM AS THE LORD THEIR GOD AND REDEEMER (Ps 81:10):

I am the Lord thy God, who brought thee out of the land of Egypt; this is the preface to the ten commandments, and a powerful reason for the keeping of them, showing that we are bound to it in duty, interest, and gratitude, all which bonds we break asunder if we be disobedient.

Let's consider two things that God is saying to us today:

1. THE GREAT COMMAND was that they should have no other gods before him (Ps 81:9): There shall no strange god be in thee, none besides thy own God. Other gods might well be called strange gods, for it was very strange that any people who had the true and living God for their God should hanker after any other. God is jealous in this matter, for he will not suffer his glory to be given to another; and therefore in this matter they must be circumspect, Exodus 23:13 “And in all that I have said to you, be circumspect and make no mention of the name of other gods, nor let it be heard from your mouth.”

2. THE GREAT PROMISE was that God himself, as a God all- sufficient, would be nigh unto them in all that which they called upon him for (Deuteronomy 4:7-9 "For what great nation is there that has God so near to it, as the Lord our God is to us, for whatever reason we may call upon Him? And what great nation is there that has such statutes and righteous judgments as are in all this law which I set before you this day? "Only take heed to yourself, and diligently keep yourself, lest you forget the things your eyes have seen, and lest they depart from your heart all the days of your life. And teach them to your children and your grandchildren.), God promised that, if they would adhere to him as their powerful protector and ruler, they should always find him their bountiful benefactor.

PRAYER POINT: Lord, give me hearing ear to hear and obey your commandment for my good in Jesus name.

ii. God, touch the stony hearts of the disobedients and make it receptive to Your Word. Let them become vessels of honor in Your hands in Jesus name.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 53-56.

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Thursday, June 8, 2023

GOD IS MY SALVATION, MY STRENGTH AND MY SONG.

ANCHOR OF LIFE DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE For FRIDAY, 9TH JUNE, 2023.

TOPIC: GOD IS MY SALVATION, MY STRENGTH AND MY SONG.

MEMORIZE: "Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; 'For YAH, the LORD, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.'" Isaiah 12:2.

SCRIPTURE READING: Isaiah 51:1-3.

“And in that day you will say: "O LORD, I will praise You; Though You were angry with me, Your anger is turned away, and You comfort me. 2 Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; 'For YAH, the LORD, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.'" 3 Therefore with joy you will draw water From the wells of salvation.”

EXPOSITION:

The children of Israel were taught to triumph in God and build their interest in him. Isaiah declared in Isaiah 12:2: " Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; 'For YAH, the LORD, is my strength and song; He also has become my salvation.'" Behold, and wonder; God is my salvation; not only my Saviour, by whom I am saved, but my salvation, in whom I am safe. I depend upon him as my salvation, for I have found him to be so. He shall have the glory of all the salvations that have been wrought for me, and from him only will I expect the salvations I further need, and not from hills and mountains: and if God be my salvation, if he undertake my eternal salvation, I will trust in him to prepare me for it and preserve me to it. I will trust him with all my temporal concerns, not doubting but he will make all to work for my good. I will be confident, that is, I will be always easy in my own mind."

Those that have God for their salvation may enjoy themselves with a holy security and serenity of mind. Let faith in God as our salvation be effectual,

(1.) To silence our fears. We must trust, and not be afraid, not be afraid that the God we trust in will fail us; no, there is no danger of that; not be afraid of any creature, though ever so formidable and threatening. Note, Faith in God is a sovereign remedy against disquieting tormenting fears.

(2.) To support our hopes. Is the Lord Jehovah our salvation? Then he will be our strength and song. We have work to do and temptations to resist, and we may depend upon him to enable us for both, to strengthen us with all might by his Spirit in the inner man, for he is our strength; his grace is so, and that grace shall be sufficient for us. We have many troubles to undergo, and must expect griefs in a vale of tears; and we may depend upon him to comfort us in all our tribulations, for he is our song; he giveth songs in the night. If we make God our strength, and put our confidence in him, he will be our strength; if we make him our song, and place our comfort in him, he will be our song. Many good Christians have God for their strength who have him not for their song; they walk in darkness: but light is sown for them. And those that have God for their strength ought to make him their song, that is, to give him the glory of it. (see Ps 68:34-35 “Ascribe strength to God; His excellence is over Israel, And His strength is in the clouds. O God, You are more awesome than Your holy places. The God of Israel is He who gives strength and power to His people. Blessed be God!”) and to take to themselves the comfort of it, for he will become their salvation.

Observe the title here given to God: Jah, Jehovah. Jah is the contraction of Jehovah, and both signify his eternity and unchangeableness, which are a great comfort to those that depend upon him as their strength and their song. Some make Jah to signify the Son of God made man; he is Jehovah, and in him we may glory as our strength, and song, and salvation.

ACTION POINT: If the Lord is your salvation, he must also become your song. Sing of His glory, honor and beauty.

DAILY BIBLE READING IN A YEAR – Psalms 49-52.

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