After these things, he went away from Athens, and came to Corinth. And there he came across a certain Jew named Aquila, a man of Pontus by birth, who not long before had come from Italy with his wife Priscilla because Claudius had given orders that all Jews were to go away from Rome: and he came to them; And because he was of the same trade, he was living with them, and they did their work together; for by trade, they were tent-makers. Acts 18v1-3 The most prosperous Roman province in Asia Minor, and Ephesus (v. 8), its most prosperous city. Aquila and Priscilla. They had relocated with Paul to Ephesus (Acts 18:2-3,18, 24-27); the Corinthians knew them. church that is in their house. Churches, like some other associations with limited resources, met in homes, normally those large enough to host them (see note on Acts 12:12). Priscilla & Aquila were a couple who met Paul on a ministry trip. It can be seen from the above scripture that this was an affluent couple who were transformed by the Gospel preached by Paul. They invited him into their home and travelled with him whenever he went from place to place. They were also in the same trade as Paul so they worked alongside him in the ministry as well as in their everyday life. They were passionate and fervent in their pursuit of God, so much so that they started a church in their home. They even influenced Apollos, a minister of the gospel who ministered to many. When they came across him they realized that he did not have the full gospel so they taught him the full message so he could be an effective minister. This is the same Apollos where the word says, Paul plants, Apollos waters and God gives the growth. Imagine, each one took their place in ministry and the church was impacted and established as a result of their relentless pursuit of God and the message of salvation. How wonderful it is when each one plays their role in bringing the word to their world. One plants the word into the hearts of people, one waters the word preached by encouraging and building up God’s people and as a result God gives growth to those saved individually and then grows and establishes the church. Are you willing to open your home to minister to those in need? Will you builder and encourager to those around you so the church can grow and be a powerful influence to the nations of the world. We need you. CONFESSION/PRAYER Holy Spirit like Priscilla & Aquila, help us to fulfill the call to ministry in our lives to influence our world and impact the nations so Jesus is preached to every man and every woman. Show us how to be effective in our world by being a blessing to those in need. We love you, Jesus.
Lucas a friend and companion of Paul during his imprisonment at Rome; Luke (q.v.), the beloved physician (Philemon 1:24; Col. 4:14). the evangelist, was a Gentile. The date and circumstances of his conversion are unknown. According to his own statement (Luke 1:2), he was not an "eye-witness and minister of the word from the beginning." It is probable that he was a physician in Troas, and was there converted by Paul, to whom he attached himself. He accompanied him to Philippi, but did not there share his imprisonment, nor did he accompany him further after his release in his missionary journey at this time (Acts 17:1). On Paul's third visit to Philippi (20:5, 6) we again meet with Luke, who probably had spent all the intervening time in that city, a period of seven or eight years. From this time Luke was Paul's constant companion during his journey to Jerusalem (20:6-21:18). He again disappears from view during Paul's imprisonment at Jerusalem and Caesarea, and only reappears when Paul sets out for Rome (27:1), whither he accompanies him (28:2, 12-16), and where he remains with him till the close of his first imprisonment (Philemon 1:24; Col. 4:14). The last notice of the "beloved physician" is in 2 Tim. 4:11. Luke was an ordinary Physician going about his daily work until he encountered the gospel through our beloved Apostle Paul. He was so attracted to the gospel and the power of the Holy Spirit taught by Paul that he became a scribe and companion of Paul. Luke was inspired by the Holy Spirit to write the gospel of Luke. (read this account of the gospel and see his version of the greatness of our God, through the eyes of a Physician, Jesus was known as the great Physician). He put aside his great learning and skill to follow a man who was imprisoned, yet he served him gladly and with passion. He helped Paul fulfil his call in writing for most of the gospel. What humility from this man who was not even a Jew, but called by God to serve. You and I called of God and set apart from our mother’s womb. We were called even before the foundations of the world. We are sanctified and made holy by this calling, just like every one of the men and women who have been called. We are unique in our calling and the Holy Spirit is waiting on us to yield to him so he can train us to reign in this life. He wants to teach us the ways of the Father so we live a divine life in this earthly realm. Luke understood this, even though he was already a successful doctor in his world. He needed more, a more satisfying life following Jesus. Will you yield today, so you too can lead a more satisfied and successful life? Servant and discipleship is not something everyone in this world and time considers important, but for you and I, the destiny of many lies in our hands so we need to fulfil our call, no matter what we are doing in this life. God is waiting on you. CONFESSION/PRAYER Lord, I come to you in Jesus' name and commend my life into your hands, I have been serving you but I never quite understood what it was that I needed to do. I want to yield to you and fulfil this divine calling in this earthly realm. There is more to this God's life and I want more of you, each and every day.
He had to go through Samaria on the way. Eventually, he came to the Samaritan village of Sychar, near the field that Jacob gave to his son Joseph. Jacob’s well was there; and Jesus, tired from the long walk, sat wearily beside the well about noontime. Soon a Samaritan woman came to draw water, and Jesus said to her, “Please give me a drink.” He was alone at the time because his disciples had gone into the village to buy some food. John 4v4-18 The woman was surprised, for Jews refuse to have anything to do with Samaritans. She said to Jesus, “You are a Jew, and I am a Samaritan woman. Why are you asking me for a drink?” Jesus replied, “If you only knew the gift God has for you and who you are speaking to, you would ask me, and I would give you living water.” “But sir, you don’t have a rope or a bucket,” she said, “and this well is very deep. Where would you get this living water? And besides, do you think you’re greater than our ancestor Jacob, who gave us this well? How can you offer better water than he and his sons and his animals enjoyed?” Jesus replied, “Anyone who drinks this water will soon become thirsty again. But those who drink the water I give will never be thirsty again. It becomes a fresh, bubbling spring within them, giving them eternal life.” “Please, sir,” the woman said, “give me this water! Then I’ll never be thirsty again, and I won’t have to come here to get water.” “Go and get your husband,” Jesus told her. “I don’t have a husband,” the woman replied. Jesus said, “You’re right! You don’t have a husband— for you have had five husbands, and you aren’t even married to the man you’re living with now. You certainly spoke the truth!” There is no name given for this woman, yet her responses and demeanour made an impact on the master. He saw potential in her and the ability to win a city. She on the other hand was consumed by the fact that he was a Jew and he should not be speaking to her. She was bothered by the fact that he wanted to give her water but he had no bucket to get the water with. Jesus asked the questions and waited for her response, he already knew she was the influencer he needed to win the lost in the city she came from. He did not look as a man looked at the woman, a woman who already had 5 husbands. No, he saw a soul winner. Son/daughter of God Jesus sees you not as you are, but as the great potential that is already on the inside of you. His word and His spirit in your life will mine the gold out of you to make you the vessel of honour that he originally called you to be. Step up and take your place. CONFESSION/PRAYER Thank you, Lord, that you never leave us where you found us, day by day you change and transform us into the person you originally called us to be. Forgive us for our shortcomings and our failure to recognize the greatness you have placed in us. We are willing to be used by you.
And entering in, he walked through Jericho. And behold, there was a man named Zacheus, who was the chief of the publicans, and he was rich. And he sought to see Jesus who he was, and he could not for the crowd, because he was low in stature. And running before, he climbed up into a sycamore tree, that he might see him; for he was to pass that way. And when Jesus was come to the place, looking up, he saw him and said to him: Zacheus, make haste and come down; for this day I must abide in thy house. And he made haste and came down; and received him with joy. And when all saw it, they murmured, saying, that he was gone to be a guest with a man that was a sinner. But Zacheus standing, said to the Lord: Behold, Lord, the half of my goods I give to the poor; and if I have wronged any man of anything, I restore him fourfold. Jesus said to him: This day is salvation come to this house because he also is a son of Abraham. For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost. Luke 19v1-10 What an amazing account of this man called Zacheus. He was chief of the publicans and he was rich. In today’s world, it would seem that he had no need of the master, but he felt that he did. He did not just have an emotional moment but he did something about it. He went out to go and find Jesus, the fact that he was too short did not deter him. He actually got up into a tree to get a chance to see this Jesus everyone was talking about. His persistence and daring move to climb a tree attracted Jesus and he rewarded him in the presence of all. He was so convicted by the love of Jesus that he repented and made a promise to pay back anything he had taken unjustly. What a transformation. This was a tax collector, not an easy man to be moved, but the power and the anointing of Jesus changed him. Who is there in your world, you can influence and touch so they can be transformed to impact the kingdom of God. Influence your world. Jesus has anointed you to do so. CONFESSION/PRAYER I am anointed to heal the sick and set the captive free. My standing in society does not matter, what matters is the fact that I can influence and win people to Christ in my world. The Holy Spirit taught me how to let go of my prejudices and self-awareness so I can touch the lost. Let your love overwhelm me to pour out salvation to others.
The early days of Christianity were exciting as God’s Spirit moved and people’s lives were changed. Converts were pouring in from surprising backgrounds. Even the dreaded Saul (Paul) became a Christian, and non-Jews were responding to the Good News about Jesus. Among the first of these was the Roman captain Cornelius. Because of frequent outbreaks of violence, Roman soldiers had to be stationed throughout Israel to keep the peace. But most Romans, hated as conquerors, did not get along well in the nation. As an army officer, Cornelius was in a difficult position. He represented Rome, but his home was in Caesarea. During his years in Israel, he himself had been conquered by the God of Israel. He had a reputation as a godly man who put his faith into action, and he was respected by the Jews. Four significant aspects of Cornelius’s character are noted in Acts: (1) He actively sought God, (2) he revered God, (3) he was generous in meeting other people’s needs, and (4) he prayed. God told him to send for Peter because Peter would give him more knowledge about the God he was already seeking to please. When Peter entered Cornelius’s home, Peter broke a whole list of Jewish rules. Peter confessed he wasn’t comfortable, but here was an eager audience, and he couldn’t hold back his message. He had no sooner started sharing the gospel when God gave overwhelming approval by filling that Roman family with his Holy Spirit. Peter saw he had no choice but to baptize them and welcome them as equals in the growing Christian church. Another step had been taken in carrying the gospel to the whole world. Cornelius is a welcome example of God’s willingness to use extraordinary means to reach those who desire to know him. He does not play favourites, and he does not hide from those who want to find him. God sent his Son because he loves the whole world—and that includes Peter, Cornelius, and you. Strengths and accomplishments: A godly and generous Roman Well-respected by the Jews even though he was an officer in the occupying army He responded to God and encouraged his family to do the same His conversion helped the young church realize that the Good News was for all people, both Jews and Gentiles Will you be the next Cornelius and influence your world? Make a difference today. CONFESSION/PRAYER Heavenly Father thank you for your giftings and calling in my life. You have given me good success in many areas of my life. This story of Cornelius makes me realise there is an evangelist in me to win the Lost. I am your disciple, please show me how.
PHILIP The Samaritans responded in large numbers. When word got back to Jerusalem, Peter and John were sent to evaluate Philip’s ministry. They quickly became involved themselves, seeing firsthand God’s acceptance of those who previously were considered unacceptable. In the middle of all this success and excitement, God directed Philip out to the desert for an appointment with an Ethiopian eunuch, another foreigner, who had been in Jerusalem. Philip went immediately. His effectiveness in sharing the gospel with this man placed a Christian in a significant position in a distant country and may well have had an effect on an entire nation. Strengths and accomplishments: One of the seven organizers of food distribution in the early church Became an evangelist, one of the first travelling missionaries One of the first to obey Jesus’ command to take the gospel to all people A careful student of the Bible who could explain its meaning clearly Philip was not an apostle like Peter or John, he was one of the men, like Stephen, called to food distribution. Whilst doing his work as a distributor of food, he operated in the power of the Holy Spirit and did mighty works that transformed the lives of many. The Ethiopian eunuch had an encounter with Jesus and the Word whilst having a conversation with Philip. His daughters also prophesied and became evangelists in their own right. The anointing on the life of Philip was so strong that he impacted many lives. Like Philip, you and I both are anointed to make a difference in the lives of those who are in our sphere of influence. We have the power to change a person’s life with just the words we speak. Watch your words, your words are tools to build and not to break, however the use of the words will determine the outcome of the lives you come in contact with and communicate with. Let your love weapon wield a harvest of souls. CONFESSION/PRAYER Thank you Jesus for an example like Jesus, I too can operate in the anointing to build lives and usher many into the kingdom of God. Holy Spirit fill me and make me a useful tool in the kingdom of God. Renew me every day so mercy and grace can flow out of my life to our dying world.
Stephen one of the seven deacons, who became a preacher of the gospel. He was the first Christian martyr. His personal character and history are recorded in Acts 6. "He fell asleep" with a prayer for his persecutors on his lips (7:60). Devout men carried him to his grave (8:2). It was at the feet of the young Pharisee, Saul of Tarsus, that those who stoned him laid their clothes (comp. Deut. 17:5-7) before they began their cruel work. The scene which Saul then witnessed and the words he heard appear to have made a deep and lasting impression on his mind (Acts 22:19, 20). The speech of Stephen before the Jewish ruler is the first apology for the universalism of the gospel as a message to the Gentiles as well as the Jews. It is the longest speech contained in the Acts, a place of prominence being given to it as a defence. Stephen was a young man picked by the disciples to serve at tables. His job was to serve the widows. He was a man filled and controlled by the Holy Spirit. He came in with passion and purpose and took his calling seriously. So much so that this attracted the attention of the Jewish rulers. In his service of the people, he managed to impact their lives with his conduct and his words, so much so that they became followers of Jesus. This cost him his life, but to the very end, he spoke the word of the Lord to convince his listeners of the authenticity of the Messiah. They stoned him to death, yet he died peacefully with a smile. They could not withstand the wisdom of the Holy Spirit that came out of him. What a testimony. I am not sure if any of us would be called to do this as the bible does not give too many accounts of this kind of death for speaking of the way of the Lord. In our day, we are free to tell people about Jesus. Let us do this with passion and purpose so we can let people know that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life. Let us give people hope. There is a dying world out there that needs hope. CONFESSION/PRAYER Holy Spirit help me to be a voice of hope to this dying world. Let me be a helping hand to those in need. Let my words be words of life, so those dying may become hopeful in a God who is able to deliver and set them free.
Timothy Honouring God, a young disciple who was Paul's companion in many of his journeyings. His mother, Eunice, and his grandmother, Lois, are mentioned as eminent for their piety (2 Tim. 1:5). The apostle having formed a high opinion of his "own son in the faith," arranged that he should become his companion (Acts 16:3), and took and circumcised him so that he might conciliate the Jews. He was designated to the office of an evangelist (1 Tim. 4:14), and went with Paul in his journey through Phrygia, Galatia, and Mysia; also to Troas and Philippi and Berea (Acts 17:14). Thence he followed Paul to Athens, and was sent by him with Silas on a mission to Thessalonica (17:15; 1 Thess. 3:2). We next find him at Corinth (1 Thess. 1:1; 2 Thess. 1:1) with Paul. Timothy was a young man who was born to a Jewish mother and a Greek father. He was taught in the ways of the Lord by his mother and his grandmother so he was well brought up in the ways of the Lord. Paul called him to be his companion in ministry, but there was a price to pay for acceptance. He was not circumcised at 8 days as a young Jewish boy, no he was circumcised as an adult, just to be accepted by the council of leaders to be a companion of Paul. Wow, what discomfort and perhaps a little embarrassing for the young man (the scriptures are quiet about this, but perhaps use your imagination as to how he could have felt). Timothy did not seem to mind. He submitted and followed Paul, becoming one of the most influential young men who influenced the people of his time. His obedience and submission caused him to be an effective minister in the kingdom of God, influencing many. The cost of discipleship is high, and what each one will have to pay varies from individual to individual, however, the benefits are unlimited, has no bounds and brings the glory of God into your life, in ways you cannot imagine. You will be called to serve in places you never thought possible. The greatest gift of all is getting to know Jesus in a personal and intimate way that is so fulfilling that nothing in this world could ever compare. CONFESSION/PRAYER Father, the cost of discipleship is high, yes sometimes it is painful, yet there is no other value that can compare to walking with you. My life is full and satisfied as long as your presence is with me and your word is my companion showing me the way of righteousness, each and every day.
Paul’s Second missionary journey with Silas (Ac 16-20). Called to Macedonia (Ac 16:6-10). Freed from prison in Philippi (Ac 16:16-40). In Thessalonica (Ac 17:1-9). Speech in Athens (Ac 17:16-33). Return to Jerusalem (Ac 20). Farewell to Ephesian elders (Ac 20:13-38). Silas A prominent member of the church at Jerusalem; also called Silvanus. He and Judas, surnamed Barsabas, were chosen by the church there to accompany Paul and Barnabas on their return to Antioch from the council of the apostles and elders (Acts 15:22), as bearers of the decree adopted by the council. He assisted Paul there in his evangelistic labours and was also chosen by him to be his companion on his second missionary tour (Acts 16:19-24). He is referred to in the epistles under the name of Silvanus (2 Cor. 1:19; 1 Thess. 1:1; 2 Thess. Once the relationship with Barnabas was severed as a result of a misunderstanding between them, God sent Silas to work with Paul. Notice here that Silas was an assistant to Paul, however, he served a critical role in ministering to the church alongside Paul. Many of us are not called to be the lead person, however, our place in ministry is vital to the success of the ministry. We just need to find where we fit, do what we are called to do and remain faithful. God blesses us and causes us to abound in the blessings of the Lord. Yes, there is a cost to discipleship but it is so worth it. CONFESSION/PRAYER Lord Jesus, thank you for choosing me and making me a vessel unto honour. I need your help to fulfil my call so the kingdom of God is enriched by the souls we win to Christ. Strengthen me and establish me in my call. Good success and victory is mine in my daily walk with you.
PAUL Also called Saul (Ac 13:9). Pharisee from Tarsus (Ac 9:11; Php 3:5). Apostle (Gal 1). At the stoning of Stephen (Ac 8:1). Persecuted church (Ac 9:1-2; Gal 1:13). Vision of Jesus on the road to Damascus (Ac 9:4-9; 26:12-18). Preached in Damascus; escaped death through the wall in a basket (Ac 9:19-25). In Jerusalem; sent back to Tarsus (Ac 9:26-30). Brought to Antioch by Barnabas (Ac 11:22-26). First missionary journey to Cyprus and Galatia (Ac 13-14). Stoned at Lystra (Ac 14:19-20). At Jerusalem council (Ac 15). Split with Barnabas over Mark (Ac 15:36-41). Barnabas son of consolation, the surname of Joses, a Levite (Acts 4:36). His name stands first on the list of prophets and teachers of the church at Antioch (13:1). Luke speaks of him as a "good man" (11:24). He was born to Jewish parents of the tribe of Levi. He was a native of Cyprus, where he had a possession of land (Acts 4:36, 37), which he sold. His personal appearance is supposed to have been dignified and commanding (Acts 14:11, 12). When Paul returned to Jerusalem after his conversion, Barnabas took him and introduced him to the apostles (9:27). They had probably been companions as students in the school of Gamaliel. Paul and Barnabas shared an incredible friendship in the Lord, the above passage indicates that they could have probably, been companions as students in the school of Gamaliel. This was a spirit-led friendship to introduce Paul to the apostles and help build his relationship with the disciples, considering Paul’s past experience with the church, where he was persecuting the church. Barnabas helped solidify this relationship. They both gave up much to become disciples of the Lord, each giving up on themselves and what they held dear to do what the Lord had called them to do. The response of the people and the disciples was not welcoming nor encouraging. Paul had to prove himself again and again as people were afraid of him and his past life. Paul persisted as his calling was more important. The call of God on our lives goes way beyond our own understanding. We were called and separated unto God long before we were even born. There is a longing and desire on the inside of our hearts that no one can explain, only we can tell, “we want more”. Everyone around us seems satisfied with their life. We have almost everything we will ever need yet on the inside of us, there is a dissatisfaction and we cannot explain why. The Holy Spirit is calling you to fulfil your calling. He is not saying you have to leave work to go and be in ministry, no. He is saying to reach out to those around you and tell them about Jesus. You are the well or the fountain of life they can drink from. CONFESSION/PRAYER Holy Spirit help me understand this call you have placed on the inside of me. I want to do your will. I want to fulfil the call you have placed in my life so I can live life to the full till it overflows.
The author of the Fourth Gospel was the younger of the two sons of Zebedee, John. A fisherman on the Sea of Galilee, who resided at Bethsaida. His father, Zebedee, appears to have been in good circumstances, owning a vessel of his own and having hired servants (Mr 1:20). Our Evangelist, John, whose occupation was that of a fisherman with his father, was beyond doubt a disciple of the Baptist, and one of the two who had the first interview with Jesus. He was called while engaged in his secular occupation (Mt 4:21, 22), and again on a memorable occasion (Lu 5:1-11), and finally chosen as one of the Twelve Apostles (Mt 10:2). He was the youngest of the Twelve—the "Benjamin," as DA COSTA calls him—and he and James his brother were named in the native tongue by Him who knew the heart, "Boanerges," which the Evangelist Mark (Mr 3:17) explains to mean "Sons of thunder"; no doubt from their natural vehemence of character. They and Peter constituted that select triumvirate of whom see on Lu 9:28. But the highest honour bestowed on this disciple was his being admitted to the bosom place with his Lord at the table, as "the disciple whom Jesus loved" (Joh 13:23; 20:2; 21:7, 20:24). and to have committed to him by the dying Redeemer the care of His mother (Joh 19:26, 27). I trust as you read the above resume of John, the author of the gospel of John, you will realise he was just an ordinary man like you and I, busy with his everyday life when he was called by the Master. It is clear from the above scriptures that he had to forsake all to follow Jesus. He was in a comfortable life, earning a living and being taken care of by his Father who was pretty wealthy at the time. To follow Jesus, he had to give up his comfortable life. He did it willingly. He followed Jesus and loved him so much that he spent time at dinner leaning on the chest of Jesus. What a relationship this was. We, on the other hand, are called to follow the master where we are, in our world, in our sphere of influence. We are asked to follow the Lord, read his word and spend time in his presence. In this way, his power in us will equip us to fulfil our calling and destiny. He is ever with us so we need never fear. All we will ever need he has provided. Yes, there are things we need to let go off in our daily life, this will be revealed to you by the Holy Spirit to you individually. Trust and obey and he will lead you into a wonderful life. CONFESSION/PRAYER Lord, like John, I choose to follow you. I let go of those things which are not of you and take hold of salvation so I might live a life pleasing in your sight. Holy Spirit I need you to fill my life with your presence so I can fulfill my call and purpose for this life.
ISAIAH Prophet to Judah (Isa 1:1). Called by the LORD (Isa 6). Announced judgment to Ahaz (Isa 7), deliverance from Assyria to Hezekiah (2Ki 19; Isa 36-37), deliverance from death to Hezekiah (2Ki 20:1-11; Isa 38). Chronicler of Judah’s history (2Ch 26:22; 32:32). Isaiah was a prophet called of God to his people, to lead his people and also warn them of the things to come. No one listened, yet he continued in the call to which he was called by God. He was the one who wrote, “The spirit of the Lord is upon me, he hath anointed me”. Remember the words Jesus read in the gospels. He was clear about his calling. He knew what it was he had to do, despite opposition, the instruction of God to him was more important. Brethren, we are called by God to serve him and also the people he has called us to. You may say, I am not a Pastor, why should I have to serve God’s people. You are indeed your brother’s keeper. How you live and respond to life matters. People are watching you and pattern their lives after you, especially your family and friends. Perhaps your colleagues and your team members are also watching as they know you are a believer. They are looking to you for answers. You have the power of God working on the inside of you. You have the wisdom of God flowing out of you. Be the man/woman of God, he has called you to be. CONFESSION/PRAYER Jesus thank you for saving me and giving me a word in season to the weary. I choose today to speak the words you have given me. I speak life and healing to those around me. I declare the blessing of the Lord that makes rich and adds no sorrow to flow into the lives of the people you have called me to. I am a king and a priest called by you. I flourish in your presence.
Samson of the sun, the son of Manoah, born at Zorah. The narrative of his life is given in Judg. 13-16. He was a "Nazarite unto God" from his birth, the first Nazarite mentioned in Scripture (Judg. 13:3-5; comp. Num. 6:1-21). The first recorded event of his life was his marriage with a Philistine woman of Timnath (Judg. 14:1-5). Such a marriage was not forbidden by the law of Moses, as the Philistines did not form one of the seven doomed Canaanite nations (Ex. 34:11-16; Deut. 7:1-4). It was, however, an ill-assorted and unblessed marriage. His wife was soon taken from him and given "to his companion" (Judg. 14:20). For this Samson took revenge by burning the "standing corn of the Philistines" (15:1-8), who, in their turn, in revenge "burnt her and her father with fire." Her death he terribly avenged (15:7-19). During the twenty years following this, he judged Israel; but we have no record of his life. Probably these twenty years may have been simultaneous with the last twenty years of Eli's life. After this we have an account of his exploits at Gaza (16:1-3), and of his infatuation for Delilah, and her treachery (16:4-20), and then of his melancholy death (16:21-31). He perished in the last terrible destruction he brought upon his enemies. "So the dead which he slew at his death were more [in social and political importance=the elite of the people] than they which he slew in his life." In life we all have choices and as we can see from the life of Samson, he was called by God to serve his people but in it all, it seems he served himself. He could not overcome his nature and he failed God miserably. He was equipped for his task to take care of God’s people but he used his strength for all the wrong reasons. His nature and his flesh ruled him. He lost his life because of his poor choices. Do you realise at the end of his life, he asked God to use him, but he only asked him to use him one more time. God raised him and did what he asked, but he had the right to ask God to restore him, however, his eyes were only on revenge and not the purpose to which he was called. He was called to lead God’s people. The life of Samson is a great lesson for each of us, we really do get what we ask for. In this day and age, our emotions and feelings rule our lives. I would like to ask you to stop and take a breather. Look around you and see if you like what is happening. Choose life today, the life of God and start to make good choices so you please God. Ask the Holy Spirit to help you to live this God-life. You see Samson did not have the Holy Spirit living on the inside of him, but only when he had something to do, the spirit of God would come upon him. Take advantage of the power and the anointing that abides in you. CONFESSION/PRAYER I am a king and a priest unto my God. My environment is dependent on the words that I speak and the things that I ask for. Help me holy spirit to make wise choices and not let my emotions and feelings dictate to me. I am empowered by the Holy Spirit to speak those things that bring life and godliness into my environment. I speak for the blessings of God over my life and my family and my environment in Jesus's name.
ELISHA Prophet; successor of Elijah (1Ki 19:16-21); inherited his cloak (2Ki 2:1-18). Purified bad water (2Ki 2:19-22). Cursed young men (2Ki 2:23-25). Aided Israel’s defeat of Moab (2Ki 3). Provided widow with oil (2Ki 4:1-7). Raised Shunammite woman’s son (2Ki 4:8-37). Purified food (2Ki 4:38-41). Fed 100 men (2Ki 4:42-44). Healed Naaman’s leprosy (2Ki 5). Made axhead float (2Ki 6:1-7). Captured Arameans (2Ki 6:8-23). Political adviser to Israel (2Ki 6:24-8:6; 9:1-3; 13:14-19), Damascus (2Ki 8:7-15). Death (2Ki 13:20). Now, here comes a prophet after Elijah, he was bold enough to ask God for a double portion of the anointing. He got what he asked for, he was able to do double the amount of miracles than Elijah. He even caused an ax-head to float. Without any training at all, he became an adviser to the king. My family of God, what are we waiting for the day we receive Jesus as our Lord and Saviour we become sons of God. We are able to overcome any battle, for the Lord is with us and for us. We have more than enough power to command and decree things to come to pass. We do not have to be afraid of the devil as he is a defeated foe. Jesus made an open show of himself and his crew when he died and went to hell to take back the keys of death and hell. Stand up as the kings and priests you are and begin to speak to the mountains in your life and command them to flee. See your victory now. If Elijah and Elisha who never knew Jesus could do it, so can we. CONFESSION/PRAYER I am a son/daughter of the Most High God. I have been chosen and specifically selected to serve in the Kingdom of God. I have the power of enemies, the devil and every evil force in Jesus, name. I can command a thing and it will be established. There is power in my words.
ELIJAH Prophet; predicted famine in Israel (1Ki 17:1; Jas 5:17). Fed by ravens (1Ki 17:2-6). Raised Sidonian widow’s son (1Ki 17:7-24). Defeated prophets of Baal at Carmel (1Ki 18:16-46). Ran from Jezebel (1Ki 19:1-9). Prophesied death of Azariah (2Ki 1). Succeeded by Elishah (1Ki 19:19-21; 2Ki 2:1-18). Taken to heaven in a whirlwind (2Ki 2:11-12). Return prophesied (Mal 4:5-6); equated with John the Baptist (Mt 17:9-13; Mk 9:9-13; Lk 1:17). Appeared with Moses in transfiguration of Jesus (Mt 17:1-8; Mk 9:1-8). The above reference to Elijah is a preview of the life of Elijah. The Bible says he was a man just like you and I, he asked for the heavens not to give rain for 3 years and there was no rain for 3 years. Imagine that, in the book of James, the bible says we too are the same. Remember the scripture, the effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man, makes tremendous power available. This makes us realise that we are able to do so much more than we are doing right now. We do not realise how powerful we actually are. Elijah did not have the holy Spirit living on the inside of him. He did not have the power of the holy spirit leading him and guiding him each day. Yet, Elijah knew his God, and he did mighty exploits. Nothing and no one can stop you in your pursuit of living this life successfully. Your words, your faith and your desire to please God in all your ways, will cause you to walk in good success and victory all the days of your life. What is stopping you? Only yourself. Start living in the power of the holy spirit today. CONFESSION/PRAYER Father help me to be more powerful than Elijah in my daily walk. If Elijah could command the rain, I command the devil to flee from my life and my family and my finances, in the name of Jesus. If Elijah could defeat and kill the prophets, I command my enemies to go and I know you will prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. Like Elijah, victory is mine.
