RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

THURSDAY 25 MARCH 2021

PASTOR CHRIS

TOPIC: DOMINATE YOUR WORLD

______________________________________________

KEY VERSE: Wherefore if ye be dead with Christ from the rudiments of the world, why, as though living in the world, are ye subject to ordinances (Colossians 2:20).

______________________________________________

Our opening verse lets us know that we’re not subject to the principles of this world. Jesus dominated this world; He lived above the decadence of the world, the corruption and failure of His society. He lived far above, and beyond the government and systems of the day when He walked the earth. That’s the life He’s given us: one that’s not subject to, but lords over, the rudiments of this world.

He’s made us self-sufficient, to function above and beyond the systems of this world. He said you’re in the world, but not of the world. That means you’re to dominate the systems and corrupting influences in today’s world. Many around you may be influenced, and provoked to compromise as a result of the deceit, corruption and wickedness in today’s world, but not you. You hail from God’s Kingdom, and your life is built on, and regulated by, His truth only.

Keep learning God’s Word. It’ll make you think and talk like Jesus. In John 16:33, He said, “These things I have spoken unto you, that in me ye might have peace. In the world ye shall have tribulation: but be of good cheer; I have overcome the world.” Have the same consciousness, because He overcame the world for you. Although He lived in a world plagued by gross darkness, deceit, economic hardships, sickness, oppression, deaths, disasters, etc., He had a victor’s mindset; the kind He expects you to function with.

When you face challenges, persecutions, distressing situations, turbulent times, trials, and temptations, be unruffled; because in Christ, you have overcome the world (1 John 4:4). Let this consciousness reflect even in your prayer-language. It makes no difference the challenges you face; when you pray, declare that in the Name of Jesus, you’ve overcome the world and its systems; its hatred, deceit, poverty, corruption, depression, falsehood and antichrist spirit. Hallelujah!

*

FURTHER STUDY: 1 John 5:4-5- For whatever is born of God overcomes the world. And this is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith._

_5- Who is he who overcomes the world, but he who believes that Jesus is the Son of God?_

*Psalm 8:4-6*

_4- is man that You are mindful of him, And the son of man that You visit him?_

_5- For You have made him a little lower than the angels, And You have crowned him with glory and honor._

_6- You have made him to have dominion over the works of Your hands; You have put all things under his feet,_

*1-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:*

Luk 6:1-16 & Deuteronomy 29-30

*2-YEAR BIBLE READING PLAN:*

Matthew 25:31-46 & Exodus 34

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

WEDNESDAY 24 MARCH 2021

PASTOR CHRIS

TOPIC: RECEIVING FORGIVENESS IS AN ACT OF FAITH

______________________________________________

KEY VERSE: But if we walk in the light, as he is in the light, we have fellowship one with another, and the blood of Jesus Christ his Son cleanseth us from all sin (1 John 1:7).

______________________________________________

Did you know that in the New Testament, God didn’t tell us to ask Him for forgiveness? Asking Him for forgiveness is like asking Him to save you. Think about it: If you do ask Him for forgiveness, when will you know He has answered?

Likewise, if you’re asking Him to save your soul, how will you know He has saved you? You’ll never know, because there’s nothing for Him to do about saving you that He hasn’t already done. It’s the same thing with forgiveness; you receive forgiveness; you don’t ask for it, because the blood of Jesus Christ was shed for the remission of your sins.

Some Christians are always asking God for forgiveness, and because they’re asking for something that’s been provided for, they don’t apply faith. You’re to receive forgiveness as an act of your faith. Afterwards, live above that situation through the power of the Holy Spirit and the Word.

You’ve already been washed and purged of your sins. Colossians 1:21-22 says, “And you, that were sometime alienated and enemies in your mind by wicked works, yet now hath he reconciled In the body of his flesh through death, to present you holy and unblameable and unreproveable in his sight.”

This happened before you ever did anything right or wrong. Therefore, refuse to be sin-conscious. You’re the righteousness of God in Christ Jesus; think and live righteousness. Our opening text says if we walk in the light (the Word) as He is in the light, the blood of Jesus automatically cleanses us from all sin. Since this is true, you don’t have to be confessing your sins all the time.

If you do something wrong, simply say, “Lord, I’m sorry for what I did; I receive forgiveness in Jesus’ Name”; and that’s it. You might ask, “Is it that simple?” Yes, it is. In Christ, we have automatic cleansing from sin; it’s part of the redemptive work of His blood in our behalf. FURTHER STUDY: 1 Corinthians 6:11 &

Romans 8:1

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

TUESDAY 23 MARCH 2021

PASTOR CHRIS

TOPIC: PERFECT COMPLETION

______________________________________________

KEY VERSE: For in him dwelleth all the fulness of the Godhead bodily. And ye are complete in him, which is the head of all principality and power (Colossians 2:9-10).

______________________________________________

The totality of divinity resides in Jesus Christ. When you see Jesus, you’re looking at the fullness of the God-head; He’s the house of God in totality. Whether or not you agree with this doesn’t make any difference. You may think of Him and say He’s just a man, but He is Himself God!

“Fullness” in our theme scripture means “a completeness,” where nothing that’s necessary is out; where there’s no shortage; a perfect completion. And something most amazing about this is what we read in the latter part: “You’re complete in Him, who is the head of all principality and power.”

When God looks at you, He sees everything you require for life and godliness in you. 2 Peter 1:3 says, “According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue.” This is the reality. Refuse to live with a lack mentality, as though there’re certain things you don’t have. Take off the limits.

Refuse to think that your completeness is in the government, your place of work or any human structure, organization or association. Your completeness is in Christ. You’re sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency. Become totally inundated with this consciousness.

Your confession, every so often, should be, “Father, I thank you, because I have all things! I’m complete in Christ; there’s no shortage in my life, but completeness.” Do this consciously and continually, and see your life blossom in righteousness, glory, wisdom and dominion of Christ, beyond your imagination. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY:

Colossians 1:16-19 & 1 Corinthians 3:21-22

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

MONDAY 22 MARCH 2021

PASTOR CHRIS

TOPIC: MARKED FOR VICTORY AND SUCCESS

______________________________________________

KEY VERSE: And he shall be like a tree planted by the rivers of water, that bringeth forth his fruit in his season; his leaf also shall not wither; and whatsoever he doeth shall prosper (Psalm 1:3).

______________________________________________

As a child of God, you’re called to live each day of your life in glory, in victory over every situation. You’re marked for success. The triumphant life is your birth-right, because God has raised you up, and made you to sit together with Christ in heavenly places (Ephesians 2:6).

You’re seated far above the devil and the cohorts of darkness, and the negative influences of this world. Have the mentality that you can’t be defeated or disadvantaged. Nothing in this world can successfully stand against you, for “…greater is he that is in you, than he that is in the world” (1 John 4:4). You’ve been translated into the Kingdom of God’s dear Son, who leads you in the triumphal excursions of life.

What a life He’s given us! Imagine what He tells us in our opening verse; the same truth is expressed in John 15:16 where He says, “Ye have not chosen me, but I have chosen you, and ordained you, that ye should go and bring forth fruit, and that your fruit should remain: that whatsoever ye shall ask of the Father in my name, he may give it you.” Jesus brought us into a life of power, fruitfulness and productivity.

You’ve been chosen to bring forth lasting results. This means He has made you efficient and effective; it’s one of the beautiful results of having the Holy Spirit in your life. Acts 1:8 AMPC says, “But you shall receive power (ability, efficiency, and might) when the Holy Spirit has come upon you....” This is the mind-set with which you must approach the things you do. There’s increased grace for you.

The Lord is at work in you, both to will and to do of His good pleasure (Philippians 2:13). He’s your sufficiency (2 Corinthians 3:5); your “able-to-do-it-ness.” Every so often, declare that you’re marked for success and victory; you produce excellent results. This is the life God has given you; it’s a life of dominion, where you triumph gloriously, and honour Him with your works and fruits of righteousness.

CONFESSION:

FURTHER STUDY: Jeremiah 17:7-8 & Psalm 92:12-14

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

SUNDAY 21 MARCH 2021

PASTOR CHRIS

TOPIC: CHRIST OUR LIGHT

______________________________________________

KEY VERSE:In him was life; and the life was the light of men. And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not (John 1:4-5).

______________________________________________

In John 8:12, Jesus said, _“…I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.” Again, in John 9:5, He said, “As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world.” For anyone to live without Christ, therefore, is to live in gross darkness, utter hopelessness, confusion, and be void of beauty. Light defines; gives direction, beauty, and illumines.

You can’t even know yourself outside Christ; only under His light is your true identity and personality revealed. The Bible says with Him is the fountain of life: in His light shall we see light (Psalm 36:9). Hallelujah!

If you use all the lights in the world to define your life, you’re sunk, because you’re sure to see the wrong things. But in Him, in His light, you see the glory of God. You see that you’re excellent and full of glory. His light shows who you are, what you have, and your abilities in Christ. It shows you have the greater One living in you.

No wonder the Psamist said in Psalm 119:105, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” Christ and His Word are one. Apart from showing you your endowments and blessings in Christ, the Word guides you in God’s perfect will for your life, imparting to you the wisdom to fulfil it.

Through His Word, you receive guidance as to specific details about your life, your ministry, career, etc., and definite steps to take in actualizing your set goals. The Bible says Christ has been made unto us wisdom from God. Become more conscious of this, and you’ll function with greater insight and knowledge, walking in success, health, prosperity, peace, and strength always!

FURTHER STUDY: 2 Corinthians 4:6,

Psalm 119:130 & Isaiah 2:5

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

SATURDAY 20 MARCH 2021

PASTOR CHRIS

TOPIC: PRAY FOR WORLD LEADERS

______________________________________________

KEY VERSE: I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks,

be made for all men; For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty (1 Timothy 2:1-2).

______________________________________________

It was all over the news some time ago how a man strangled his four-year-old child to death in a bathtub. After killing him, he screamed with tears, “I don’t know why I did it!” Of course, he went to prison for it. In his words, he said, “I felt a power beyond myself and I strangled my own son.”

Also reported, was a sixteen-year-old boy who walked into his home, killed his mother and father with gunshots. Just standing there, bemused, he said he didn’t know why he did it. You’re talking about sons and daughters, men and women, husbands and wives, dads and moms from hell! Why are they from hell? It’s because they’re possessed of demons; evil spirits have entered into them to carry out such despicable acts.

That’s why God tells us to pray for leaders because they aren’t left out of such demonic influence. You’ve got to pray for them because an evil spirit can enter into them. The Bible tells us in Luke 22:3 that an evil spirit entered into Judas Iscariot. When that happened, he walked out of where Jesus and the disciples were, went to the chief priests to finalise arrangements to betray Jesus, the Son of God.

When Judas saw Jesus hanging on the Cross, he thought Jesus would miraculously come off the Cross, but He didn’t. Matthew 27:3-5 tells us, “When Judas, who had betrayed him, saw that Jesus was condemned, he was seized with remorse and returned the thirty silver coins to the chief priests and the elders…So Judas threw the money into the temple and left. Then he went away and hanged himself.” What does that tell you? Satan caused him to do it.

That’s what’s happening to some leaders today; they’re taking steps that are detrimental, damaging and harmful to their nations, people, businesses and the systems. You might say, “I trust my leaders”; but they can be influenced and overpowered by these demonic forces to sign policies or do despicable things they never planned to do. Therefore, you must pray for them.

Pray that they’ll have the will, desire, and boldness to do what’s right in spite of pressures, and refuse to yield to corrupting and negative influences. It’s not out of place to also pray for the removal of those who push their selfish or satanic agendas at the detriment of their people. Most importantly, pray for the salvation of men and leaders alike.

Dear Father, I pray for my leaders today, that wisdom and understanding be granted them to lead in accordance with your divine will and plan, and to make the right decisions that’ll benefit the people, and cause peace and prosperity to be established, in Jesus’ Name. Amen.

FURTHER STUDY: 1 Timothy 2:1-2 AMPC & Ezekiel 33:6-7

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

FRIDAY 19 MARCH 2021

PASTOR CHRIS

TOPIC: HOLY, FAULTLESS AND GUILTLESS

______________________________________________

KEY VERSE: That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word, That he might present it to himself a glorious church, not having spot, or wrinkle, or any such thing; but that it should be holy and without blemish (Ephesians 5:26-27).

______________________________________________

The Lord Jesus is coming for a glorious Church, one without blemish, a faultless Church. You say, “is that possible?” Absolutely! That’s what His

redemptive work was all about. Colossians 1:21-22 (CEV) says, “You used to be far from God. Your thoughts made you his enemies, and you did evil things. But his Son became a human and died. So God made peace with you, and now he lets you stand in his presence as people who are holy and faultless and innocent.”

Through the sacrifice of His own body as the sin-payment on your behalf, you now dwell in His presence. There’s no enmity between you and the Father (Read Ephesians 2:13-16). How comforting it is to know the true nature and character of our heavenly Father! He brought us to Himself. James 1:5 says, He “…upbraideth not…,” which means He doesn’t reproach or criticize you. He doesn’t blame you for anything. He doesn’t count your sins against you (2 Corinthians 5:19).

You’re free from accusation; you’ve been justified. No wonder Paul got poetical in Romans 8:33-34 saying, “Who shall lay anything to the charge of God’s elect? It is God that justifieth. Who is he that condemneth? It is Christ that died, yea rather, that is risen again….” Then in verses 38 and 39, he climaxed, “For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Christ Jesus already died for you; He was condemned in your place. Thus, no one should condemn you anymore (Romans 8:1). Christ is your righteousness (1 Corinthians 1:30). It doesn’t matter who accuses you; you’re holy, faultless and guiltless before God, because Jesus took responsibility for all your sins. He’s the reason God doesn’t charge you with wrong. Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY: 1 Thessalonians 3:13 AMPC &

Romans 5:8-9

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

THURSDAY 18 MARCH 2021

PASTOR CHRIS

TOPIC: PERSECUTED FOR HIS SAKE

______________________________________________

KEY VERSE: Wherein they think it strange that ye run not with them to the same excess of riot, speaking evil of you (1 Peter 4:4).

______________________________________________

In 1 Peter 4, the Apostle Peter emphasizes that living in accordance to God’s Word comes with a price of being ridiculed. Many will be surprised when you don’t join them in the same wild and reckless living; and so they’ll insult, vilify and speak evil of you.

The Amplified Classic translation of the opening text tells us, “They are astonished and think it very queer that you do not now run hand in hand with them in the same excesses of dissipation, and they abuse [you].” Irrespective of the evil or abuses they haul at you because you ‘follow’ Jesus, never be ashamed. Your association with Christ is the greatest honour ever.

The Bible says, “For it is better to suffer for doing good, if this should be God’s will, than for doing evil” (1 Peter 3:17). So, distinguish yourself for the Lord. Arm yourself with the same mind—the mind of Christ. Don’t be ashamed to stand up for the Lord no matter the persecutions. He stood up for you, and saved you; so, you must stand up for Him. Don’t be concerned that you may be isolated or ostracized.

Jesus loves you even if all others forsake you, and according to the Word, He won’t forsake you. He’s in you and always with you: “...lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world. Amen” (Matthew 28:20). Read His words in Luke 21:33-36: _*“Heaven and earth shall pass away: but my words shall not pass away. And take heed to yourselves, lest at any time your hearts be overcharged with surfeiting, and drunkenness, and cares of this life, and so that day come upon you unawares. For as a snare shall it come on all them that dwell on the face of the whole earth....”

We’re in the end times, and the current happenings around the world are a fulfilment of these prophecies, right before our eyes. But here’s a question you must answer in Hebrews 2:3: “How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation?....” Live according to God’s Word and let nothing cause you to ignore or neglect your salvation. Jesus said in Matthew 5:11-12, “Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” FURTHER STUDY:*

2 Corinthians 7:1 NIV & Matthew 5:11-12

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

WEDNESDAY 17 MARCH 2021

PASTOR CHRIS

TOPIC: WORSHIP WITH KNOWLEDGE

______________________________________________

KEY VERSE: But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshippers shall worship the father in spirit and in truth: for the father seeketh such to worship him (John 4:23).

______________________________________________

When you really know Jesus, your worship or praise to Him becomes meaningful. It wouldn’t just be because the song is melodious; rather, it’ll effuse profusely from the deep recesses of your heart, in true fellowship and knowledge of His greatness and loving kindness. There may not be any instrumental music or melody while you’re worshipping, but your heart will be so enraptured and entwined with Him, with outbursts of spirit songs in spiritual melody.

Remember, people praise, worship and pray in all religions. The question is, who is the object of their worship? Who are they praying to? What are they saying to Him? And what might be His response, if any? Your worship or praise has to come from a place of knowledge of the Word. The Word says, “Let my prayer be set forth before thee as incense; and the lifting up of my hands be as the evening sacrifice” (Psalm 141:2). Also, in 1 Timothy 2:8, the Bible tells us, “I will therefore that men pray every where, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting.”

As you lift your hands in worship or prayer, you’re offering to Him a sacrifice of sweet-smelling savour. Go ahead and practise this now. Worship the Father from your spirit and according to His Word, with your hands lifted up.

FURTHER STUDY: Hebrews 13:15 AMPC & 1 Peter 2:9 AMPC

RHAPSODY OF REALITIES

TUESDAY 16 MARCH 2021

PASTOR CHRIS

TOPIC: GLORY THROUGH THE CHURCH

______________________________________________

KEY VERSE: Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen (Ephesians 3:20-21).

___________________________________________

In the first chapter of the book of Ephesians, the Apostle Paul, by the Spirit, began to explain who Christ is, with respect to God, and who the Church is. He also went on to explain why the Church isn’t a conglomeration of religious groups; rather, it’s the Body of Christ, full of glory.

In Ephesians 3:6 NKJV, he explained “that the Gentiles should be fellow heirs, of the same body, and partakers of His promise in Christ through the gospel." 1 Corinthians 12:27 tells us that we’re the Body of Christ and members in particular. How did we become members of the Body of Christ? It was by being baptized into Christ at the New Birth. Our theme verse says, “Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen.”

The Greek word translated “ages” is “genea” it means a generation. That means from generation to generation, the Father is glorified in the Church, by Jesus Christ. The desire and ministry of Jesus is to glorify the Father always, and this He does through the Church.

Even in the face of diverse persecution and belligerent oppositions, we remain bold and courageous for and with the Gospel, because His glory is in, and upon us. With that glory, we triumph over sickness, diseases, poverty, and reign victoriously in the realms of life. The Church of Jesus Christ is glorious, triumphant, flourishing, and full of dominion, wisdom and power.

Hallelujah!

FURTHER STUDY: John 17:22

&

Colossians 1:26-27