Preserving A Remnant

Preserving A Remnant 

II Kings 11:1-3 NKJV

[1] When Athaliah the mother of Ahaziah saw that her son was dead, she arose and destroyed all the royal heirs. [2] But Jehosheba, the daughter of King Joram, sister of Ahaziah, took Joash the son of Ahaziah, and stole him away from among the king’s sons who were being murdered; and they hid him and his nurse in the bedroom, from Athaliah, so that he was not killed. [3] So he was hidden with her in the house of the Lord for six years, while Athaliah reigned over the land. 

" Athaliah was the daughter of Ahab and Jezebel, and was given to King Jehoram of Judah as a bride. She was a bad influence on both her husband (Jehoram of Judah) and her son (King Ahaziah of Judah)". Now, after Jehu’s coup, Athaliah tried to save something for Ahab’s family by trying to eliminate the house of David in Judah. V.2 begins with a word that alters the narrative...But Jehosheba... Thank you Jesus. Hear me. Something will interupt the plans of the enemy. It's Gods remnant.

   Jehosheba was  that remnant. She was a little-known woman who had an important place in God’s plan of the ages. Through her courage and ingenuity, she preserved the royal line of David through which the Messiah would come. Evil people like Athaliah will begin their work, but God can always raise up a Jehosheba. You need a Jehosheba. She was a remnant.

   She hid Joash, the roysl line of David for six years in the Temple. What s place to hide a child. It means only those who came to  seek out Jehovah were to know about this royal line. The enemy may think it has won, but God knows how to preserve a remnant to restart the process. All through the scriptures, Gid accomplished things with Remnants 

   Zac Poonen explains the meaning of this remnant. " There is great spiritual decline today. But, in the midst of all this, God has a few who have a heart for Him. They are not all found in one denomination. They are found in all the denominations - men and women who love God and are seeking to honour Him in all things. They are genuinely filled with the Holy Spirit and do not get involved in controversies. They are very careful in the use of their tongues and are very faithful with money. God is gathering such people together in these days as His remnant". Jehosheba belonged here. I pray you belong here too. Good morning.

The End of Jehu

The End Of Jehu: The Best Of The Bad

II Kings 10:32-35 NKJV

[32] In those days the Lord began to cut off parts of Israel; and Hazael conquered them in all the territory of Israel [33] from the Jordan eastward: all the land of Gilead—Gad, Reuben, and Manasseh—from Aroer, which is by the River Arnon, including Gilead and Bashan. [34] Now the rest of the acts of Jehu, all that he did, and all his might, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel? [35] So Jehu rested with his fathers, and they buried him in Samaria. Then Jehoahaz his son reigned in his place. 

Its to David Guzik that we owe the title, " Though incomplete in his own goodness, this man was the best of a bad group. Jehu’s goodness was rewarded with a long reign (twenty-eight years)". Knapp says, " The great lesson to be drawn from this remarkable man’s life is that of being constantly on guard, as servants of God, lest we be found doing His work – whether it be in the exercise of discipline, or the accomplishment of reformation – in a spirit of unbrokenness and without due exercise of heart and conscience between Him who is ‘a God of judgment,’ and by whom ‘actions are weighed.". 

     Most people start out well, only to end badly. By the zeal he demontrated at the start, you have the impression that he was headed for a great reformation. God gave him time, " This was a long reign, but notable only at its beginning. Jehu had the energy and influence to truly turn the nation back to God, but his half-commitment to God left that potential unfulfilled and points to a lack of any real relationship with God." Twenty eight years! Feel the message: half-commitment. That is the real problem. How is your commitment?

   Commitment to God is a lifelong journey of surrendering your life to God and prioritizing Him in your thoughts, actions, and decisions. It's not a one-time decision, but rather a daily choice to honour God and allow Him to work in your life.  One of our readers felt what we may all be feeling, and then asked: " Despite God's promises why did Jehu derailed?" I told him, " Personal volition. God cannot live the Christian life for us. Jehu had choices". He failed, but in Christ, you wont fail. Make quality choices your priorities. Good morning.

 

Jehu Stopped Short

Jehu Stopped Short

II Kings 10:29-31 NKJV

[29] However Jehu did not turn away from the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who had made Israel sin, that is, from the golden calves that were at Bethel and Dan. [30] And the Lord said to Jehu, “Because you have done well in doing what is right in My sight, and have done to the house of Ahab all that was in My heart, your sons shall sit on the throne of Israel to the fourth generation.” [31] But Jehu took no heed to walk in the law of the Lord God of Israel with all his heart; for he did not depart from the sins of Jeroboam, who had made Israel sin. 

God has standards. Whatever you do in life must meet God's starndard. Jehu stopped short. He only exchanged Baal for the golden calves at Bethel and Dan. The golden calves were two idols that King Jeroboam of Israel had created as a way to get the people to worship in the northern and southern parts of his kingdom without having to travel to Jerusalem. 

   Jeroboam's actions were a great sin because they went against God's command to worship only Him and not to bow down to idols. Jeroboam's actions also changed God's system of worship into a man-made system. The actions led to the downfall of his house and the destruction of Israel. Jeroboam is repeatedly called out in the Bible for "making Israel sin". Other kings of Israel, such as Baasha, Zimri, Omri, Ahab, and Ahaziah, are said to have "walked in the way of Jeroboam". And Jehu added to the list.

   Surprisingly, God was still merciful to Jehu because he obeyed God at the beginning of his reign. So God allowed him to have four generations on the throne. The mercies of God. So Jehu did no live up to God's Standard.

    God's standard is holy perfection, and it's different from human standards. Jesus summarized God's high standards in two simple commands in Matt. 22:35-40: "Love God with all your heart, soul, and mind and love your neighbour as yourself". We need the help of Jesus to live up to this expectation. That's what happens when we surrender our lives to Christ. Jehu stopped short. Will you live yours right? Good morning.

Support For The Reformation

Support For The Reformation 

II Kings 10:15-17 NKJV

[15] Now when he departed from there, he met Jehonadab the son of Rechab, coming to meet him; and he greeted him and said to him, “Is your heart right, as my heart is toward your heart?” And Jehonadab answered, “It is.” Jehu said, “If it is, give me your hand.” So he gave him his hand, and he took him up to him into the chariot. [16] Then he said, “Come with me, and see my zeal for the Lord.” So they had him ride in his chariot. [17] And when he came to Samaria, he killed all who remained to Ahab in Samaria, till he had destroyed them, according to the word of the Lord which He spoke to Elijah. 

To say that Jehu was a reformer is an understatement. In the 16th century, the Christian world witnessed a plethora of reformers who may understand how Jehu felt at the time of his reforms. We had men like Martin Luther, John Calvin, Huldrych Zwingli, Philip Melanchthon, Martin Bucer, Thomas Cranmer, just to mention a few. Their greatest problem was support for the reforms they were pressing for. They understood that if their reforms are not accepted, they may be rejected forever. All reforms carry risks and may have unintended consequences. 

    So when Jehu met Jehonadab, he wanted to know whether he supports his actions. Jehonadab was the son of  Rechab, founder of the Rechabites, who were a reform movement among the people of God, protesting the immoral and impure lives of many in Israel and Judah. It is later in Jeremiah 35: 6, where we understand better that God used the Rechabites, and the memory of Jehonadab as an example of faithfulness and obedience, to rebuke His unfaithful and disobedient people. So now you understand why Jehu needed this man's approval and even rode with him in his chariot. John Gill says, " the company of such a man, so famous for wisdom and goodness, he knew would give him much countenance among the people, and sanction to what he did."

   Even reformers need support. So do you. If your ever going to accomplish anything outstanding in life, you need both divine and human support. Ask God for ths support today. Good morning.

Was this Coincidence or Providence

Was this Coincidence Or Providence?

II Kings 10:12-14 NKJV

[12] And he arose and departed and went to Samaria. On the way, at Beth Eked of the Shepherds, [13] Jehu met with the brothers of Ahaziah king of Judah, and said, “Who are you?” So they answered, “We are the brothers of Ahaziah; we have come down to greet the sons of the king and the sons of the queen mother.” [14] And he said, “Take them alive!” So they took them alive, and killed them at the well of Beth Eked, forty-two men; and he left none of them. 

It may appear difficult to determine whether these events were Providence or Coincidence . Coincidence may be described as an act or an occurrence of events that happen at the same time by accident but seem to have some connection. Providence on the other hand may be described as an act or a state of divine guidance in human affairs. This same thoughts bothered  Dave Reid. Here's his answer to the question of Coincidence or Providence. "The answer to that question is both simple and complex.  It’s simple because the one-word answer is Providence!  The Bible teaches that God is not only sovereign - controlling all things at all times - but He is actually guiding events in accordance with His eternal purposes.  Ephesians 1:11 says that "He works all things after the counsel of His will."  (See Psalm 33:11 & Isaiah 43:13.)  Nothing happens by chance or by accident!  What appears to be merely circumstance is really the outworking of God's plans". So was this a divine set up for God to ckeanse the memory of Jezebel?

   There was a relationship between the house of Ahab and King Ahaziah. Joram of Israel and Ahaziah were nephews. Wikipedia  explains: " Ahazia) or Jehoahaz I (2 Chronicles 21:17; 25:23), was the sixth king of Judah, and the son of Jehoram and Athaliah, the daughter (or possibly sister) of king Ahab of Israel. So there was still a link for evil worship to continue.

   Well, upon all the cleansing that was going on in Samaria, no news got to these folks who came to visit the Kings sons and the queen mother. Dvid Guzik quotes Knapp, " Some believe that the execution of Ahaziah’s family was an example of Jehu going too far. “The sword of judgment, so far as the expressed purpose of Jehovah was concerned, should have been confined to the house of Ahab. But a reckless and ambitious hand was wielding it, and it devoured beyond the allotted limits.” That statement brings back that old argument of Providence or Coincidence. 

   Well, the answer to the division may be seen in a different perspective. " a biblical definition of coincidence would be what occurs together by God’s providential arrangement of circumstances.

What appears to us as random chance is in fact overseen by a sovereign God who knows the number of hairs on every head".( Luke 12:7 ). In Isa 46: 9-11, God declares His sovereignty. God doesn't separate coincidence from providence. They all serve His purpose. Every of your experience will serve Gods purpose.  Just be patient. Good morning.

Wiping Out Ahab's Dynasty

Wiping Out Ahab's Dynasty 

II Kings 10:10-11 NKJV

[10] Know now that nothing shall fall to the earth of the word of the Lord which the Lord spoke concerning the house of Ahab; for the Lord has done what He spoke by His servant Elijah.” [11] So Jehu killed all who remained of the house of Ahab in Jezreel, and all his great men and his close acquaintances and his priests, until he left him none remaining. 

Anytime the words 'Ahab' or 'Jezebel' are mentioned, they conjure an image of the most sinful leaders Israel ever produced. Today we read a fulfilment of the prophecies on their dynasty. Be careful in life, " the wages of sin is death", ( Rom.6:23 ). The verse maybe a reference for spiritual death, and separation from God, but it may also result in physical death as demonstrated in our story.

   Heres a list of evil committed during the time they were on the throne and how God repaid them: 

  * Death: Ahab was sentenced to death for murdering Naboth. 

*Destruction of his family: Ahab's kingdom was removed from his line, and his family was completely destroyed. 

*Dogs eating Jezebel: Elijah prophesied that dogs in Jezreel would devour Jezebel. 

*Ahab's death in battle: Ahab died in battle with the Syrians a few years after Elijah's prediction. 

*Jezebel's survival: Jezebel survived Ahab's death by about ten years. 

*Prophetic judgments: Ahab's reign was marked by prophetic judgments that foretold the consequences of his actions. 

*Worship of Baal: Ahab allowed the worship of Baal to become an official religion in the Northern Kingdom. 

*Killing prophets: Ahab had prophets killed. 

*Destroying altars to God: Ahab had altars to God destroyed. 

*Nationalizing prophets of Baal and Asherah: Jezebel placed prophets of Baal and Asherah on the national payroll. 

*Imprisoning Micaiah: Ahab imprisoned Micaiah, a prophet who declared that Ahab would fail in battle.

   God knows how to respond to and reward evil. Don't take Him for granted.  Good morning.

The Word Came To Pass

The Word Came To Pass

II Kings 9:35-37 NKJV

[35] So they went to bury her, but they found no more of her than the skull and the feet and the palms of her hands. [36] Therefore they came back and told him. And he said, “This is the word of the Lord, which He spoke by His servant Elijah the Tishbite, saying, ‘On the plot of ground at Jezreel dogs shall eat the flesh of Jezebel; [37] and the corpse of Jezebel shall be as refuse on the surface of the field, in the plot at Jezreel, so that they shall not say, “Here lies Jezebel.” ’ ”

Be careful with every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord. David Guzik says, " God’s promise against Jezebel and the house of Ahab was exactly and righteously fulfilled (1Ki 21:19; 1Ki 21:23-25)". Joseph Benson is more detailed. " He now calls to mind the words of the Prophet Elijah, which before he had forgot, or did not regard. And the carcass of Jezebel, &c. — These words are not extant in the place where this prophecy is first mentioned, 1Ki 21:23; but are here added by Jehu, by way of explication and amplification. So that they shall not say, This is Jezebel — No memory of her, nothing whereby it might be known there had been such a woman as Jezebel, should remain of her, as a picture or effigies, to which men might point and say, This is Jezebel. No monument was made of her, and she had no sepulchre but in the belly of dogs". 

    There's the phrase in the Bible which is a constant reminder that God's words will be fulfilled. It is , " It came to pass..".  Mat. 11:1; Isa.65:24; Ezek.12:25. God's word will always produce the result that God intends, and God's word will never return to him empty. God's word is true and will come to pass no matter what people do, say, or believe. Good morning.

Death By Hanging out

Death By Hanging Out 

II Kings 9:27-29 NKJV

[27] But when Ahaziah king of Judah saw this, he fled by the road to Beth Haggan. So Jehu pursued him, and said, “Shoot him also in the chariot.” And they shot him at the Ascent of Gur, which is by Ibleam. Then he fled to Megiddo, and died there. [28] And his servants carried him in the chariot to Jerusalem, and buried him in his tomb with his fathers in the City of David. [29] In the eleventh year of Joram the son of Ahab, Ahaziah had become king over Judah. 

In September,2020, Dub McClish asked a question whether the Bible teaches guilt by association. The question arose because of Barack Obama's association with Pastor Jeremiah Wright's Chicago congregation. This is McClish, " Is there such a thing as “guilt by association”? Some brethren have for years answered with a firm “No,” denying any Scriptural basis for it and classifying it as unfair, prejudicial, and unjustified. Others have just as boldly and staunchly replied, “Yes,” arguing that the Scriptures teach the principle, both explicitly and implicitly".  Whatever your position on the discourse, Ahaziah, King of Judah would not have died when he did except for his association with Joram, King of Israel. He was just hanging out.

   The Bible is very clear on instructions on who you associate with. 1 Corinthians 15:33 "Do not be deceived: “Bad company corrupts good morals.” 2 Corinthians 6:14

"Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness?" Proverbs 13:20 "He who walks with wise men will be wise,

But the companion of fools will suffer harm". Well, Ahaziah suffered harm which led to his death.

   Who are your friends? Who do you associate with? Surdashan Vig explains the psychology. " Perception by Association is the sub-conscious judgement on individuals based on whom they are socially associated with, or in English, "hang out" with". Here's ChinyereDistinguish in a blog post. " A friend is someone you should consciously choose because your choice of friends can make or mar you. A popular adage says, “show me your friend and I will tell you who you are.” Friends are bonded by similar interests and belief and just before you argue that you are different from your friends, read 1 Corinthians 15:33 – “Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character.”(NIV). The bible makes it clear that we can’t possibly live better than the friends or company we keep. And Proverbs 27:17 throws some light on what friends do for each other – “As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” (NIV). Think twice about the friends you hang out with. Don't die by hanging out. Good morning.

From Ramoth Gilead To Jezreel

From Ramoth Gilead to Jezreel 

II Kings 9:14-15 NKJV

[14] So Jehu the son of Jehoshaphat, the son of Nimshi, conspired against Joram. (Now Joram had been defending Ramoth Gilead, he and all Israel, against Hazael king of Syria. [15] But King Joram had returned to Jezreel to recover from the wounds which the Syrians had inflicted on him when he fought with Hazael king of Syria.) And Jehu said, “If you are so minded, let no one leave or escape from the city to go and tell it in Jezreel.” 

It is possible to fight in battles you didn't start, but there's something exciting about the battles you are commissioned to execute. Jehu was divinely commissioned by God to clean up the mess of Ahab's dynasty. Thats what Jehu went to Jezreel for. The battle with Syria was not the center of the conflict. The center was spiritual and in Israel. So Jehu could have spoken like Paul in 2 Corinthians 7:5, which describes being troubled on every side, with conflicts on the outside and fears within. He was focused on cleansing the fears within, that was Joram. 

   Bishop Mike Okonkwo is very particular about winning one's life battles. " You must choose your battles in life. It is not every battle that you must fight. Many people are trying too hard to defend themselves in times of challenge, in times of difficulties, in times of pressure and they are distracted and they lose focus on what God is planning for them. They end up fighting the wrong battle and spend energy in the wrong places. You must choose your battles. This is one of the things that I found in the scripture. I remember when David’s brothers tried to discourage him from fighting Goliath. David didn’t chastise them or continue to argue with them trying to make them believe in him, he simply walked away. There are battles you walk away from; you don’t stay there to fight. The fight that you fought does not make you superior, it does not elevate you, promotion only comes from God. It’s only God that elevates". So it was strategic that Jehu walked away from the Syrian battle, to set the home front right.

   Naboth's vineyard, ironically was at Jezreel. God knows how to rewrite our life stories. The stage is set to fulfill prophecies. Stay with us in the next episode and enjoy the fulfillment of God's prophecies. Good morning.

Jehu Is King

Jehu Is King

II Kings 9:13 NKJV

[13] Then each man hastened to take his garment and put it under him on the top of the steps; and they blew trumpets, saying, “Jehu is king!” 

Take a good note of the actions of these Captains and Generals. They hastened...that means to move or act quickly. A few moments ago, they thought the prophet was a babler, a mad man or worse. Now something appears to touch them in an area of their need. There was a general dissatisfaction  in the land. Keep prophesying preachers. Theyll change their mind when your words begin to manifest.

   Cambridge Bible For Schools says, "They made a seat for Jehu by folding their garments, and piling them together". They were in too much of a hurry to spread them on the stairs. So, " They extemporised a cushion with their robes, and set Jehu upon them". Thats a prophetic rising. Wiseman says, "The act of spreading out the garment was one of recognition, loyalty and promise of support.” By the time Jehu went to Jezreel, where the King was convalescing, the sight of the generals alone commanded obedience from the messengers sent. It indicates also that Jehu enjoyed popular support. 

   The very words of a supposedly " Mad " man was now being blown in trumpets by Captains and Generals: Jehu is King! The very people who despised your words will celebrate your rising. Pause with me. What do you think happened to the ministry of the young Prophet or of Elisha? There's a way God will bless you. It's through that same ministry. Keep doing it. Good morning.

A Mad Man, A Babble and Prostrations

A Mad Man, A Babble And Prostrations 

II Kings 9:11-13 NKJV

[11] Then Jehu came out to the servants of his master, and one said to him, “Is all well? Why did this madman come to you?” And he said to them, “You know the man and his babble.” [12] And they said, “A lie! Tell us now.” So he said, “Thus and thus he spoke to me, saying, ‘Thus says the Lord: “I have anointed you king over Israel.” ’ ” [13] Then each man hastened to take his garment and put it under him on the top of the steps; and they blew trumpets, saying, “Jehu is king!” 

Perception may be described as 'sensation interpreted in the light of experience".  It creates an impression on the mind which enables us to learn and remember. People's perception of a men of God vary from serious minded representatives of God, to charlatans and sometimes marked by a total mental disorder. It was the same in ancient Israel as it is today. The soldiers in our story demonstrate a varied perception of the young prophet. They respected him as a carrier of God's message, but they secretly despised him as a charlatan. Read the lines.

    People's perception has affected the work of ministry very profoundly. Your impact on people will be to the extent they percieve you as God's instrument.  In July 2019, Jegede Sunday made an attempt to answer who a Man of God is in Heralds of Revival. Here are his submissions: " First, a man of God is a man with a right standing before God". "Second, a man of God is a man of the Word and Spirit of God"..." The true men of God are those who “have renounced the hidden things of shame, not walking in craftiness nor handling the word of God deceitfully, but by manifestation of the truth commending ourselves to every man’s conscience in the sight of God.” (2 Cor. 4:2 NKJV)".

      "Like the early apostles of Christ, true men of God cannot be intimidated, manipulated, or persuaded to stop proclaiming the truth. Their response to the haters of truth will always be: “For we cannot but speak the things which we have seen and heard.” (Acts 4:20 NKJV)".

Unfortunately, some supposed  Men of God " go about compelling and manipulating undiscerning believers to sow or give all sorts of seeds, offerings, or gifts to them as a means of averting the looming dangers or evils they have seen in a vision, or as a means of obtaining a special favour, miracle, deliverance, breakthrough, or victory from God". The perception continues.

   Wikipedia reports that, " The term Man of God appears 78 times in 72 verses of the Bible, in application to up to 13 individuals: Moses (Deuteronomy 33:1; Joshua 14:6; Psalm 90:1; Ezra 3..." and a few others more.May you be a true representation of heaven when you carry the word of God.  Suddenly, the soldiers celebrated the Captain. It points to one thing, that Captain had leadership character before God appointed him King. That is a story for a different day. Good morning.

Three Generations For AWord

Three Generations For A Word 

II Kings 9:1-3 NKJV

[1] And Elisha the prophet called one of the sons of the prophets, and said to him, “Get yourself ready, take this flask of oil in your hand, and go to Ramoth Gilead. [2] Now when you arrive at that place, look there for Jehu the son of Jehoshaphat, the son of Nimshi, and go in and make him rise up from among his associates, and take him to an inner room. [3] Then take the flask of oil, and pour it on his head, and say, ‘Thus says the Lord: “I have anointed you king over Israel.” ’ Then open the door and flee, and do not delay.”

It took about three generations of Prophets to anoint Jehu King. The original order to anoint Jehu came first to Elijah. In that original prophecy for Jehu to be king of Israel, Elijah, foretold that there would be a dramatic transfer of power in Israel, Judah, and Syria: 1 Kings 19:15-17: Elijah then prophesied that a new king would strangle Syria's old king in his sleep. We've discussed that already in a previous vignette.The assignment was then shifted to Elisha. 1 Kings 19:16-18. Now Elisha has assigned same to a son of the prophet. Jewish traditions say the name of the young Prophet was Jonah ( 2Kings,14:25 ). At this time, Johram, the son of Ahab, was King. The question is: why did it take so long to anoint Jehu? Were the prophets afraid of the response of the house of Ahab? Very likely. When finally the son of the prophet anointed Jehu, he opened the door and ran. The military officers prostrated in acceptance 

    This is how someone describes Jehu's life: " Before his reign as king, Jehu functioned as a commander in the army of Ahab (2 Kings 9:5, 25) in the northern kingdom of Israel. Jehu was the son of Jehoshaphat, although he is more commonly mentioned as son of Nimshi, his grandfather, perhaps because Nimshi was more well-known. Jehu’s name, meaning “Yahweh is he,” portrays well his future, God-given task: to obliterate the house of Ahab along with the worship of Baal that pervaded Israel at the time". 

     Has the word you were given by God appear delayed? Have you felt like things always happen to others except you? Well, I came to tell you that even the prophecies about Christ appeared delayed.  The problem is what do you do before the words you receive come to pass. Like Jehu, keep doing what you were doing for God. Its not your job to mechanize the word to be fulfilled. God watches over His word to perform it.Jer.1:12. That means, God is actively involved in ensuring that his word is fulfilled. It conveys that "God is not distant or indifferent, but is attentive and engaged in his plans. It also serves as a reminder to believers that God is committed to his promises and is always present". Good morning.

For the sake of His Servant David

For The Sake Of His Servant David 

II Kings 8:16, 18-19 NKJV

[16] Now in the fifth year of Joram the son of Ahab, king of Israel, Jehoshaphat having been king of Judah, Jehoram the son of Jehoshaphat began to reign as king of Judah....[18] And he walked in the way of the kings of Israel, just as the house of Ahab had done, for the daughter of Ahab was his wife; and he did evil in the sight of the Lord. [19] Yet the Lord would not destroy Judah, for the sake of His servant David, as He promised him to give a lamp to him and his sons forever.

There's an element of fatherhood in God. Its called mercy. Mercy is a compassionate treatment. Mrriam Webster describes it as, " compassion or forbearance shown especially to an offender or to one subject to one's power". God should have judged Judah because of its sins as He did Israel. The difference in treatment ss we see here is because of a man called David. 

   David loved God. He trusted in God and waited for God to remove Saul, the king, instead of taking matters into his own hands. Someone says, " However imperfect David was, the fact remains, he did humble himself before God in love, obedience and worship and God commended His love toward him". Today's verse adds to that cv. God wouldn't destroy Judah because of him.

  In James 2:13, we are given reasons for Gods actions in the story of David. It explains why mercy triumphs over judgement. " Because judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful.” We dare not violate the law of liberty in our hearts by withholding mercy from others. If we who have been shown such great mercy act unmercifully toward our neighbors, then we will be dealt with in similar fashion. Jesus made the same point in the parable of the unforgiving steward (Matthew 18:23–35). And the principle goes back to Solomon’s time: “Whoever shuts their ears to the cry of the poor will also cry out and not be answered” (Proverbs 21:13)". Its just the principle.

   This writer submits, " The idea is that mercy “glories” or “boasts” against judgment, knowing that, where mercy and judgment seem to conflict, mercy wins. The good news for every child of God in Christ is that God’s mercy toward us will triumph over His judgment of us (see Romans 8:1). Our sins may argue against us, but Christ is our loving Advocate who argues for us and prevents us from receiving the judgment we deserve. We, in turn, display God’s type of mercy toward others". Did you feel a sense of fresh air?

   I watched a prisoner being released from a Syrian prison yesterday. He couldn't believe it. He kept holding unto the News reporter. The news was too good to be true. Yet it was true. He was free. Mercy triumphed, because the former ruler was gone. For David's sake. For Christ's sake, we are excused from damnation. Praise God! Good morning.

wicked heart, Wicked Servant

Wicked Heart, Wicked Servant 

II Kings 8:13-14 NKJV

[13] So Hazael said, “But what is your servant—a dog, that he should do this gross thing?” And Elisha answered, “The Lord has shown me that you will become king over Syria.” [14] Then he departed from Elisha, and came to his master, who said to him, “What did Elisha say to you?” And he answered, “He told me you would surely recover.” 

From self assessment as a dog, to being a murderer the following day is difficult to comprehend. But, God searches the hearts. "

[9] “The heart is deceitful above all things, And desperately wicked; Who can know it? [10] I, the Lord, search the heart, I test the mind, Even to give every man according to his ways, According to the fruit of his doings.

Jer.17.9-10.NKJV. Some say that the verse means that only God can fully know the heart, and that the only solution is for God to make hearts new and reorient them toward pleasing Him. "The immediate context of the verse speaks of Judah’s sinfulness in spite of all the blessings of God".

   David Guzik comments that " The heart is deceitful above all things: Our hearts often deceive us, presenting heart-fulfillment as the key to happiness. What we desire is often not what we need. The advice “be true to your heart” fails when the heart is deceitful above all things". He continues that, " In the OT usage the heart signifies the total inner being and includes reason. From the heart come action and will.” (Feinberg)

    Guzik submits that "The heart is not only deceitful, but also wicked - and desperately so. Many have been led to rebellion, disobedience, and great sorrow by following their heart, without challenging their heart and judging it by the measure of God’s truth. “Follow your heart” is poor advice when the heart is desperately wicked". Hazael followed his wicked heart 

   The conclusion of the story is in v.15. its a tragic read. " But it happened on the next day that he took a thick cloth and dipped it in water, and spread it over his face so that he died; and Hazael reigned in his place".  He reigned in blood. This is why Elisha wept. What a sinful heart requres is a transformation by the blood of Jesus. This maybe the story of Hazael but its close to our lives. What is the state of your heart? Good morning.

You will Certainly Recover...Bu...

You Will Certainly Recover...But..

II Kings 8:7-8, 10 NKJV

[7] Then Elisha went to Damascus, and Ben-Hadad king of Syria was sick; and it was told him, saying, “The man of God has come here.” [8] And the king said to Hazael, “Take a present in your hand, and go to meet the man of God, and inquire of the Lord by him, saying, ‘Shall I recover from this disease?’ ” 

[10] And Elisha said to him, “Go, say to him, ‘You shall certainly recover.’ However the Lord has shown me that he will really die.”

   Its very easy to read these verses looking for a single unit of understanding about the sick King. The truth is that there are actually two statements here. The first is that the king will recover, and the second is that the King will die. The real message is not the recovery but on the violent execution by the very servant that was sent. Before we separate these statements, lets point out the tradition of seeing men of God with a gift. The people understood that consulting a man of God required preparations by way of a token of appreciation. Today, some men of God require consultation fees as if they sre involved in a commercial business. Who can blame them? The world has forgotten its virtues. 

   The first statement is that the King will recover. In essence, this sickness was not unto death. It's the second statement that concerns Hazael. " 

[12] And Hazael said, “Why is my lord weeping?” He answered, “Because I know the evil that you will do to the children of Israel: Their strongholds you will set on fire, and their young men you will kill with the sword; and you will dash their children, and rip open their women with child.” what a revelation. Elisha wept. The king of Syria had sent a mam to get his personal prophecy. 

   In v.14, that crafty servant told one part of the revelation to Ben-Hadad. Then killed him the following day. May you not send a servant whose job will be to return to your death. The beauty of the New Testament is that Ben- Hadad could have consulted God directly. He probably would have heard God telling him that his time is over. Good morning.

The Divine Appointment

The Divine Appointment 

II Kings 8:1-2, 4 NKJV

[1] Then Elisha spoke to the woman whose son he had restored to life, saying, “Arise and go, you and your household, and stay wherever you can; for the Lord has called for a famine, and furthermore, it will come upon the land for seven years.” [2] So the woman arose and did according to the saying of the man of God, and she went with her household and dwelt in the land of the Philistines seven years.

[4] Then the king talked with Gehazi, the servant of the man of God, saying, “Tell me, please, all the great things Elisha has done.” 

Something is about to happen to you before the end of the year. I feel it strongly in my bones. There's a conspiracy in heaven to set you up for a blessing. This divine set up is to bless you. 

   I read a story once in a Ministry Magazine of how a young woman who had lost her connection with God returned to Him in a plane as they returned from Fiji. By just sitting next to this minister, they talked and God reunited her in faith. Read our vignette today. It looks kike Gehazi was back with the King. It looks like God's mercy came through for him. Here he was, telling the King about Elisha. That means Elisha was no more 

   What's the probability that at such very moment when he told the story of the Shunamite, she also came to the King complaining about her house that had been taken over during the seven years of famine? V.5 is the crux of the divine appointment.

   Someone says that , " A divine appointment is a meeting with another person(s) that God has specifically and unmistakably arranged. The Holy Spirit sets up such encounters because someone needs what He can offer them through you. You are one conversation away from God bestowing His favor on them as you act as His channel of blessing. Often that encounter will be with some-one you have never met before". Joel Austin on 29th of Jan., 2018 said, " God has some blessings already set up and waiting for you. He’s already spoken to people to be good to you. He’s already lined up divine connections, people that will go out of their way to show you favor. You don’t have to try manipulate people, force the door open, convince someone to be good to you. The people God has ordained to help you, He’s already prepared their hearts". That's how I felt when I read the words today. Its your turn now. Something is going to change. Remember that song? God arranged it that she was the evidence of that story. You will be the evidence of someone's testimony. I feel like preaching. We will talk more about it tomorrow. Good morning.

Prophecy Fulfilled 2

Prophecy Fulfilled 2

2 Kings 7:16, 18-20 AMP

[16] Then the people [of Israel] went out and plundered the camp of the Arameans. So [goods were so plentiful that] a measure of finely-milled flour [was sold] for a shekel, and two measures of barley for a shekel, in accordance with the word of the Lord [as spoken through Elisha]. [2 Kin 7:1] 

[18] It happened just as [Elisha] the man of God had spoken to the king, saying, “Two measures of barley will be sold for a shekel and a measure of finely-milled flour for a shekel tomorrow about this time at the gate of Samaria.” [19] The royal officer had answered the man of God and said, “Now behold, [even] if the Lord should make windows in heaven, could such a thing happen?” And Elisha had answered, “You will see it with your own eyes, but [because of your doubt] you will not eat it.” [2 Kin 7:2] [20] And so it happened to him; for the people trampled him at the gate, and he died.

A couple of days ago, we wrote in our vignette that the prophecy of  Elijah was fulfilled on Ahab. Dogs licked his blood while prostitutes bathed in the water. Today our read paints the picture of another fulfilled prophecy. This time, from Elisha. Suddenly there was abundance in Israel. The war was over. The only tragedy for the day came from the death of the toyal officer who opposed Elisha

    " When a prophecy is fulfilled, it is seen as evidence that God exists and that God spoke through the prophets as recorded in the Bible. It is also believed that fulfilled prophecies should motivate people to believe that future prophecies will also come to pass". Concerning Jesus Christ, Melanie Rainer presents a case where people tried to disbelief the prophecies in the presence of overwheming possibilities. Hear her: " John recounts Isaiah’s prophecy and experience to contextualize the Pharisees’ disbelief in Jesus as the Messiah. In Isaiah 53:1, Isaiah asks, “Who has believed what we have heard? And to whom has the arm of the LORD been revealed?” When John makes this reference, he is showing us how Jesus fulfilled yet another prophecy in the Old Testament. This is a hallmark of John’s Gospel, revealing these glimpses backward to show us the true nature and identity of Jesus". Jesus is the hallmark of fulfilled prophecies. 

   Your Prophecies too will come to pass. It may look like the year is ending. Don't give up. Things will change tomorrow, at the gate. Don't sleep, watch the gate. Good morning.

How T Wake Up The King

How To Wake Up The King 

II Kings 7:12-13 NKJV

[12] So the king arose in the night and said to his servants, “Let me now tell you what the Syrians have done to us. They know that we are hungry; therefore they have gone out of the camp to hide themselves in the field, saying, ‘When they come out of the city, we shall catch them alive, and get into the city.’ ” [13] And one of his servants answered and said, “Please, let several men take five of the remaining horses which are left in the city. Look, they may either become like all the multitude of Israel that are left in it; or indeed, I say, they may become like all the multitude of Israel left from those who are consumed; so let us send them and see.” 

You will be in better appreciation of Isa.52:7 when you read this story. " How beautiful on the mountains are the feet of those who bring good news, proclaim peace, who bring good tidings, who proclaim salvation, who say to Zion, your God reigns!".  I know we interprete that for preaching God's message. Indulge me. You may think of them as lepers without feet, but they brought good news. If you carry good news, you can wake up the King anytime. 

   The story is told of the African gospel legend, Idahosa, who decided to take a nap in the afternoon. He told his security that he wouldn't see any body. It wasn't long, there was a  comotion at his gate. He stood up to inspect. A man had come with a cow to see the Archbishop. Idahosa called the security man to order. He didn't want to be disturbed, but you don't turn a man with a cow back brother. The Archbishop was awake.

   You can wake up the King with good news, good offerings, or a fulfillment of prophecies. The King of Israel was awake. They were hesitant, but they knew these lepers. They might have been lepers, but they were their brothers.Thank God for the advice of one of the King's servants. The story was confirmed. The war was over. You wont battle forever.

   Our concern today is how do you wake up the anointing to speak on your behalf? Those lepers must have changed their status forever in that society because they knew how to wake up their King, with good news. Its not every time the King must solve problems. Sometimes he needs the blessings of good news. Wake up your leader with a cow, a car, a house or meet affecting needs, and see the oil go into overdrive. That King had the power to declare a new status for the lepers. If they were Gehazi and his children, you will understand how Gehazi told the story of the Shunemite to the King in 2 Kings 8, to have her land restored. It looks like Gehazi was now in the King's household. Would it be that their act of goodness brought forth their cleansing. I suspect so. What are your thoughts? Good morning 

 

The Day Of Good News

The Day Of Good News 

II Kings 7:8-10 NKJV

[8] And when these lepers came to the outskirts of the camp, they went into one tent and ate and drank, and carried from it silver and gold and clothing, and went and hid them; then they came back and entered another tent, and carried some from there also, and went and hid it. [9] Then they said to one another, “We are not doing right. This day is a day of good news, and we remain silent. If we wait until morning light, some punishment will come upon us. Now therefore, come, let us go and tell the king’s household.” [10] So they went and called to the gatekeepers of the city, and told them, saying, “We went to the Syrian camp, and surprisingly no one was there, not a human sound—only horses and donkeys tied, and the tents intact.” 

I used to be a University lecturer in Mass Communication for about twenty years. I remember a phrase we used to bandy, " Bad news is good news". At that time we were only thinking News Reporting.  We thought  that "positive and solution-oriented approach to reporting that looks for solutions, conveys inspiration, and shows courageous people taking control of their lives", was bad news. Later we were told about  "Development" as  good news also, but it was dull, and no action. In our read today, it's not bad news, but good news. The lepers discovered a prophetic development. They found out what the people slept on: abundance at the gate of Samaria. This was good news. They had to make it news despite all the training that only bad news was good news.

   The lepers knew they couldn't remain silent. They brought the news to the gate. " We went to the Syrian Camp...". Even the King was awake. Who doesn't  like good news? God had taken care of the very thing they were afraid of. Get ready, it's your turn now. The last Chariot sneaked out to inspect. God had done it.  The abundance prophesied by Elisha was true, except, for one bad news in v17. The King's officer was trampled and he died. The word came to pass. Allow me to prophesy..." Tomorrow, about this time, God will surely visit you!" There it is. Thank you Lord for the good news tomorrow. Please share the testimonies. Good morning.

You Enemy Will Hear A Rumoir

Your Enemy Will Hear A Rumour 

II Kings 7:6-7 NKJV

[6] For the Lord had caused the army of the Syrians to hear the noise of chariots and the noise of horses—the noise of a great army; so they said to one another, “Look, the king of Israel has hired against us the kings of the Hittites and the kings of the Egyptians to attack us!” [7] Therefore they arose and fled at twilight, and left the camp intact—their tents, their horses, and their donkeys—and they fled for their lives. 

 In 2Kings 19:7, what is happening here is declared as a divine strategy: that your enemy will hear a rumour. It is Isaiah's prophecy against Senachrib during the reign of Hezekiah. Miriam Webster defines rumour as " a widely held opinion having no known source : hearsay".  It may also be described as a statement or story that is in circulation but has not been proven to be true. God can make your enemy to hear a rumour. 

   'The Phycology of Rumours' is a book by Robert H. Knapp, published in 1944. It analyses over a thousand rumours during world war 2. Knapp identifies three basic characteristics of rumours: " ...they're transmitted by word of mouth; they provide "information" about a "person, happening, or condition"; and

they express and gratify "the emotional needs of the community."

The rumours these Syrian soldiers heared was from heaven. Read the lines again. Then there was a stampede. May your enemy hear a rumour. 

   So the lepers found the camp empty.  The Syrians had left everything just to save themselves. The next verse talks of the sudden transformation of the lepers to wealthy men. They gathered and hid all they could. They also ate to their satisfaction before sending the news to the King. The prophecy was fulfilled. Today is the day for your own fulfillment. Your enemy will hear about it. Good morning.

On The Edge Of The Prophecy

On The Edge Of The Prophecy 

II Kings 7:3-5 NKJV

[3] Now there were four leprous men at the entrance of the gate; and they said to one another, “Why are we sitting here until we die? [4] If we say, ‘We will enter the city,’ the famine is in the city, and we shall die there. And if we sit here, we die also. Now therefore, come, let us surrender to the army of the Syrians. If they keep us alive, we shall live; and if they kill us, we shall only die.” [5] And they rose at twilight to go to the camp of the Syrians; and when they had come to the outskirts of the Syrian camp, to their surprise no one was there. 

The lepers were not around when Elisha prophesied. They were by nature regarded as the outcasts of the society. It is by sheer grace that they happened to be where the prophecy was to be fulfilled, at the gate of Samaria. Add the Jewish tradition to this. " Unfounded Jewish traditions say these four were actually Gehazi and his three sons. Gehazi was afflicted with leprosy because of his greed toward Naaman (2Ki 5:27)". Really. If they were, then grace took over the story. 

   John Piper's attempts to describe the grace concept ended with the following words: " It is incredibly encouraging that God’s grace is both the inclination of the divine heart to treat us better than we deserve and is the extension of that inclination in practical help".  So grace is undeserved favour. Someone says it is " ..what inclines God to give gifts that are free and undeserved by sinners". We could drag this, but we are more concerned with being on the edge of a prophecy.

   Living on a prophetic edge means being a part of what God has already designated.  It is "...a place where God initiates, we respond. Our life is to be, what Eugene Peterson calls, “answering speech”. The response must be to what God is doing in and around us. In order to live this way we have to be God-conscious rather than self-conscious like Jesus was". Were lepers the only God - conscious people in that land? The answer appears to be:  yes! They all heard the prophecy, and they went home. Where are you in relation to God's prophecy today? Are you at the gate or on the bed?

   No matter what the economy says, there's still hope at the gate. If those lepers were Gehazi and his sons, then understand that grace will always beat the law. Gehazi?.. anyone on the edge of prophecy can change. Remember him: Gehazi. Grace. Good morning.

Don't Talk Too Much

Don't Talk Too Much 

II Kings 7:2, 17 NKJV

[2] So an officer on whose hand the king leaned answered the man of God and said, “Look, if the Lord would make windows in heaven, could this thing be?” And he said, “In fact, you shall see it with your eyes, but you shall not eat of it.” 

[17] Now the king had appointed the officer on whose hand he leaned to have charge of the gate. But the people trampled him in the gate, and he died, just as the man of God had said, who spoke when the king came down to him. 

There's a preponderance of Bible Verses against talking too much. Prov.10:19, Eccl. 5:3, Eph..4:29. There are moments to be quiet. The matter was between the king and the Prophet, but this loquacious third rank officer spoke. The Expositors Commentary says, " Such contemptuous repudiation of a Divine promise was a blasphemy; and answering scorn with scorn, and riddle with riddling, Elisha answers the mockery, "Yes! and you shall see this, but shall not enjoy it."

    John Gill attempts to explain the capacity of this officer in relation to the King. He was a man, " ...whom the king confided, but literally, on whose hand he rested, and by whom he was supported, being a form and matter of state, while he and Elisha were talking together, or on whom he leaned as he came to him; this was a principal lord, the third to the king, as his title seems to denote; the word by which the Septuagint renders it is by Suidas (u) interpreted of such that held three spears in the hand together; and this was an honourable post, for a king to lean on him; such state was used by the king of Syria, 2Ki 5:18 and by the kings and queens of Persia". He had sn important office. Be careful how you speak to or contradict a man of God. 

   David Guzik is detailed and scathing in his observations about this officer. "The king’s officer doubted the prophecy, and his doubt was based on several faulty premises.

i. First, he doubted the power of God. If God willed it, He certainly could make windows in heaven and drop down food from the sky for the hungry, besieged city of Samaria.

ii. Second, he doubted the creativity of God. In the mind of the king’s officer, the way food could come to the city was from above, because the city was surrounded by a hostile, besieging army. He had no idea that God could bring provision in a completely unexpected way. “How often faith breaks down in this way! It knows that God is, and that He can act. But it only sees one way, and refuses to believe that such a way will be taken. The supply came without the opening of heaven’s windows.” (Morgan)

iii. Third, he doubted the messenger of God. Though the promise was admittedly hard to believe, the king’s officer could have and should have believed it because it came from a man with an established track record of reliability.

iv. All in all, the officer well illustrates the conduct of unbelief:

• Unbelief dares to question the truthfulness of God’s promise itself.

• Unbelief says, “This is a new thing and cannot be true.”

• Unbelief says, “This is a sudden thing and cannot be true.”

• Unbelief says, “There is no way to accomplish this thing.”

• Unbelief says, “There is only one way God can work.”

• Unbelief says, “Even if God does something, it won’t be enough.”

 Too much talk from an unbelieving heart kill. Today, just believe the word of God. Good morning.

The Spirit Of prophecy

The Spirit Of Prophecy: Divinely Forwarned!

2 Kings 6:32-33 NIV

[32] Now Elisha was sitting in his house, and the elders were sitting with him. The king sent a messenger ahead, but before he arrived, Elisha said to the elders, “Don’t you see how this murderer is sending someone to cut off my head? Look, when the messenger comes, shut the door and hold it shut against him. Is not the sound of his master’s footsteps behind him?” [33] While he was still talking to them, the messenger came down to him. The king said, “This disaster is from the Lord. Why should I wait for the Lord any longer?”

The Spirit of Prophecy is a book written by Ellen G. White of Seven Days Adventist Church. Its content is slightly different from our vignette this morning. Our usage aligns more with Michael Reinemann's who describes the phrase as is used in Rev.19:10, it being the testimony of Jesus Christ. We  will use the phrase as God's spiritual pattern to forewarn His people by prophetic insights and revelations. Its intention is  to honour Jesus Christ. 

   Elisha as God's prophet had revelations of the intentions of King Jehoram to kill him. That is the spirit of prophecy st work. He was with others, and he told them about the arrival of the murderous messenger. He added that the Master, King Jehoram, was going to join shortly. Thus, he was forwarned of the satanic agenda.

   Someone explains that, " The apostle Paul also employs such language, using the phrases "testimony of Christ," "testimony of God," and "testimony of our Lord" (1 Cor 1:6; 2:1; 2 Tim 1:8). Similarly, the Old Testament prophet Isaiah uses the expression "the law and the testimony" (Isa 8:19-20) to refer to the messages given by God's true prophets in earlier times". God uses prophetic insights to punch holes in satanic agenda concerning the church. It must be frustrating to the devil. Wherever the spirit of prophecy is, the church benefits, and the devil is exposed.

   The spirit of prophecy maximizes on the gift of prophecy. However, the New Testament church has been asked to judge any prophetic claims or proclamations by the word. That revelation saved Elisha from a violent death that day. May God's prophetic insights save you from any satanic agendas today and forever more, in Jesus Name. Amen. Good morning.

Someone To Blame

Someone To Blame 

II Kings 6:30-31 NKJV

[30] Now it happened, when the king heard the words of the woman, that he tore his clothes; and as he passed by on the wall, the people looked, and there underneath he had sackcloth on his body. [31] Then he said, “God do so to me and more also, if the head of Elisha the son of Shaphat remains on him today!”

It is very difficult to understand the King's anger towards Elisha. That's what blame does. This issue bothered Adam Clark. Here's his submission: " Either he attributed these calamities to the prophet, or else he thought he could remove them, and yet would not. The miserable king was driven to desperation". Indeed we shift blame on others as a mark of desperation. Its no spiirituality at all. 

   An AI report explains on blame shifting: " Blaming others for problems or mistakes is a defense mechanism that can prevent people from taking responsibility and learning from their mistakes. It can also create tension and damage relationships". Caterina Kostoula calls blameshifting the hidden barrier of potential. She says that, " It will keep you small and inconsequential without any of the guilt. It's someone else’s fault in the end...You feel ethically superior to the other party. Blaming others is often a defence mechanism to protect one's self-esteem". She insists that in blaming others, " You avoid responsibility. Facing our shortcomings can be painful, and blame is the go-to way to prevent this pain. With blame, you do not have to face your mistakes or the opportunity for learning and growth". We could go on in learning what that King did. 

    Joseph Benson is very scathing in his remarks, " This wretched and partial prince overlooks his own great and various sins, and, among the rest, his obstinate adherence to the worship of the calves, and his conniving at the idolatries and witchcrafts of his mother Jezebel, (2Ki 9:22,) and the wickedness of the people, which were the true and proper causes of this and all their calamities; and he lays the blame of all upon Elisha..."  We could keep on talking. For many, blame shifting is their popular game. Truly, accepting our flaws can bring us mercies from the throne of grace. Confessing them will bring us deliverance. Good morning.

When Economic Conditions Become Critical

When Economic Conditions Became Critical 

II Kings 6:24-25 NKJV

[24] And it happened after this that Ben-Hadad king of Syria gathered all his army, and went up and besieged Samaria. [25] And there was a great famine in Samaria; and indeed they besieged it until a donkey’s head was sold for eighty shekels of silver, and one-fourth of a kab of dove droppings for five shekels of silver.

There came a time when the King of Syria returned to fight Israel. This is the strategy of the devil. Even during the temptation of Jesus, the report is that the devil departed for a season. Please keep that in mind and dont plan to be careless. When you put the enemy under pressure, it will depart. It may even promise everything to be free from your bindings. But, the devil is a liar. It will return. 

   Whenever the enemy returns, it will attempt to amaze you with its power. Mat.12:43-45. So the Syrians returned. They put up such battle that Israel was hemmed into their battlements. This went on for a long time and the daily economy was affected. Our read is the report. People ate their children as if it was chicken, just to survive.

    You see, economic conditions describe the state of variables in any economy. It may include " gross domestic product (GDP) growth potential, the unemployment rate, inflation, and fiscal and monetary policy orientations". Israel experienced all. The economic outlook for Israel was bad. You couldn't forecast any hope. When things got that tough, the King blamed the Prophet Elisha. Immature people look for who to blame at crisis. What do you do at crises? Behind the people we blame is the devil. The real enemy is the devil. Change your focus. Bind the enemy. You sre empowered  to win. Do it now. Good morning.

Understanding Power And Authority

Understanding Power And Authority In Christ 

II Kings 6:19-20 NKJV

[19] Now Elisha said to them, “This is not the way, nor is this the city. Follow me, and I will bring you to the man whom you seek.” But he led them to Samaria. [20] So it was, when they had come to Samaria, that Elisha said, “Lord, open the eyes of these men, that they may see.” And the Lord opened their eyes, and they saw; and there they were, inside Samaria!

When we understand the place of power and authority we have as Christians, we will not be terrified by the enemy. Prophet Elisha in the Old Testament understood this. Authority may be described as the delegation to influence or command thought, opinion, or behaviour( Webster ). Power on the other hand is the ability to act or produce an effect. It is the ability or potential for an individual to influence others and control their behaviour. What Elisha did demonstrated both. It is what we are opportuned to have as New Creations in Christ.

   At Newbirth, we are introduced to this power in Christ. Luke 10:19,  John 20:21. Christianity Today reports that, " In the Gospels, Jesus models for his church what he wants us to do and be, including living in God's power". We can therefore demonstrate this level of power in our times. 

   Imagine the entire troop alive and in the center of Samaria before their eyes of understanding is opened. The king wanted to kill them. That would have exacerbated the problem. Elisha said they should feed them and let them go, instead. Mercy prevailed, and the King of Syria stopped his antics. Read the details. They came  no more. When the enemy experiences power, they will think twice before returning. You're anointed to do that. Receive grace to capture troops and bring them to subjection in Jesus Name. Good morning.

Divine Insights And Restraints Through Prayers

Divine Insights And Restraints Through Prayers 

II Kings 6:17-18 NKJV

[17] And Elisha prayed, and said, “Lord, I pray, open his eyes that he may see.” Then the Lord opened the eyes of the young man, and he saw. And behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha. [18] So when the Syrians came down to him, Elisha prayed to the Lord, and said, “Strike this people, I pray, with blindness.” And He struck them with blindness according to the word of Elisha.

Prayers is a very powerful force on earth to either open someone's eyes or close it. People behave in alignment with the insights they have of who you are. Dr Uma Ukpai tokd a story of how he was given a first class seat in an aeroplane with a third class ticket. Its perception, a divine insight to who he really is. When people have an insight into your true value, they treat you differently. That usually happens when  people's understanding are opened.

   In the same way, people's understanding of who you are may be restrained. When that happens, people treat you in accordance to that restrained perception. In today's read, Elisha prayed for the servants eyes to open and prayed for the soldiers eyes to be closed. He changed their perceptions by prayers. 

   You're full of power to change the way people see things around you. A minister told a story of a family who lived opposite the church for many years. One day, the preacher prayed that their eyes of Understanding be opened. Surprisingly, they came to the Pastor and confessed that they never understood that they were a living church. They became nembers from that point on.

   Prayers can open or restraint people's perception, but the prayers must be prayed. Most people only wish things will happen or stop happening when they are meant to pray. If you pray, and it doesn't change, leave it in the hands of God as Jesus did. Just don't keep quiet and be swallowed up by things. You can change how you're received or rejected. Its in your hands. Good morning.

The Consciousness Of Spiritual Things

The Consciousness Of Spiritual Things

II Kings 6:13-16 NKJV

[13] So he said, “Go and see where he is, that I may send and get him.” And it was told him, saying, “Surely he is in Dothan.” [14] Therefore he sent horses and chariots and a great army there, and they came by night and surrounded the city. [15] And when the servant of the man of God arose early and went out, there was an army, surrounding the city with horses and chariots. And his servant said to him, “Alas, my master! What shall we do?” [16] So he answered, “Do not fear, for those who are with us are more than those who are with them.” 

The consciousness of spiritual things owes it to one's spiritual intelligence. Wikipedia describes Spiritual Intelligence as, " ...a term used by some philosophers, psychologists, and developmental theorists to indicate spiritual parallels with intelligence quotient (IQ) and emotional intelligence (EI)". Irini Fambro says that Spiritual Intelligence is the gift of seeing the unseen. " The Bible speaks clearly of an unseen world that is parallel to ours, but many of us live unaware of it. Spiritual intelligence is how we describe the God-given wisdom of being aware of the spiritual dimension of reality". 

   The servant of Elisha saw a city surrounded by soldiers, but the Master saw more with Spiritual Intelligence. He saw the soldiers sorrounded by  a higher and more sophisticated heaven's army. Our emotional response owe it to the level of Spiritual intelligence we have. Read the lines again. Feel the servant's fear and the Master's faith. The enemy wants you to operate in fear, but your Spiritual intelligence will link you to faith. 

   Kris Vallotton in his book of a similar title "...suggests that believers are ignoring a deeper dimension of our makeup–our SQ, or spiritual intelligence. Because we have the mind of Christ through the Holy Spirit, we are capable of divine brilliance–a heightened understanding that aligns our perspective with His and reveals stunning solutions. God not only invites us to operate in this gifting, but He designed us for it!" Read the lines again. To make it easy, Valloton identifies five dimensions of this gifting: " The Gift of Discernment, The Gift of Knowledge, The Gift of Wisdom, The Gift of Prophecy, and The Mind of Christ". Today, be more conscious of spiritual things. They rule the physical. By the end of the day, Elisha captured a whole battalion of soldiers by Spiritual Intelligence. You too can ask God for it. Good morning.

God Will Expose Your Enemies

God Will Expose Your Enemies 

II Kings 6:8-9, 11 NKJV

[8] Now the king of Syria was making war against Israel; and he consulted with his servants, saying, “My camp will be in such and such a place.” [9] And the man of God sent to the king of Israel, saying, “Beware that you do not pass this place, for the Syrians are coming down there.” 

[11] Therefore the heart of the king of Syria was greatly troubled by this thing; and he called his servants and said to them, “Will you not show me which of us is for the king of Israel?”

Josh Meyer and  Tom Vanden Brook published in USA Today about the Pentagon documents leak on April,2023. Some persons had published in the dark web about the status of the war in Ukraine. The Department of Defense in USA went into " ...full damage-control mode in an urgent effort to identify what’s in the documents and whether any more might become public soon". Later in the week, it was reported that Jack Telxeira, a twenty one year old soldier was arrested in connection with the crime. So even today, what happened in Syria is a serious crime. The only problem in Syria was that the exposure was not internally ochestrated. There was a Prophet of God far away , who told even the conversations that the king of Syria had in his bedroom. Let that sink. God can tell things to His beloved.

   In 1 Cor.2:9-10 we are told of the kind of revelations that God has prepaered for those who love him. The revelation is by God's Spirit which can search all things, and even the deep things of God. Things may be hidden to human eyes, but exposed to God. That's why your enemies are vulnerable in Gods hands. God  has a covenant promise to expose your enemies. " The secret things belong to the LORD our God, but those things which are revealed belong to us and to our children forever, that we may do all the words of this law" Deut.29:29. " Surely the Lord GOD does nothing,

Unless He reveals His secret to His servants the prophets" Amos 3:7. " And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free." John 8:32. We can go on. Be confident of this fact, God will expose your enemies so that they can ve defeated. It is emotionally draining for the enemy to know, you know that they are planning, and you know how to offset the enemy. God will do it, if we listen. Good morning.

The Response of the Man of God

The Response Of The Man Of God 

II Kings 6:6-7 NKJV

[6] So the man of God said, “Where did it fall?” And he showed him the place. So he cut off a stick, and threw it in there; and he made the iron float. [7] Therefore he said, “Pick it up for yourself.” So he reached out his hand and took it. 

If you're planning or you're already a Man of God, you must pray God for the miraculous as well as answers to life problems. They are the benefits of what will define you for the people and the spirit realm. First you have to live for God. Bethany Verrett makes an attempt to describe the nature of this kind of man who lives for God. " A man who pursues that righteousness, and strives to live for the Lord, is sometimes called a man of God. It can be difficult to define what that kind of man looks like, but the Bible provides insights into how a man can conform to the image of God, and help others identify them. Some of the traits of a man of God include faith, a consistent relationship with God, patience, and temperance, among other things". 1 Timothy 6:11 “But as for you, O man of God, flee these things. Pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, steadfastness, gentleness.”   

    Even artificial intelligence descrbes a man of God as " someone who seeks God above all else, and is characterized by humility, leadership, and a commitment to righteousness". That is what Elisha was before the miraculous. Anyone who lives carelessly, but commands the miraculous is not within the scope of this definition. Elisha did not perform magic. He made the iron to float by the power of God. 

  If you ask me how this miracle happened, I think God reversed the properties of the water and iron. That's because its is impossible to make an iron float. Archimedes must have chanced on this story before he states his famous principle that " ..the net upward force on an object immersed in water is equal to the weight of the water displaced by the object". Don't take me on it. A miracle happened here. God can change the properties of what tries to sink you or your future.  I've witnessed God enough to know this. Youre next in line for a floating miracle. No devil can sink you. Good morning.

It Was Borrowed

It Was Borrowed !

II Kings 6:4-5 NKJV

[4] So he went with them. And when they came to the Jordan, they cut down trees. [5] But as one was cutting down a tree, the iron ax head fell into the water; and he cried out and said, “Alas, master! For it was borrowed.”

Today's vignette raises the old question of being in debt. The sons of the prophet borrowed an axe, now, they have lost it. Let's draw a parallel in our contemporary times. It confronts us with the questions: Should a Christian borrow? What happens if you loose on what you borrowed? There are no direct answers. Jeffrey W. Hamilton asks the question: Is it a sin to be in debt? He touches on why some people say you should not borrow. "For some Christians, it's a sin to be in debt." As I continued to read, the author admitted that only a few "hardliners" say owing money is morally wrong. The verses they used to justify their belief were Romans 13:8, which says to owe no man anything but love, and Proverbs 22:7, which says debts put other people in control of your life. While I agree that being in debt is not the best circumstance within to find yourself, can we say that being in debt is a sin?". Here is Hamilton's attempt to answer this question. " God clearly warns us not to go into debt or cosign a loan unless we are certain we can repay our obligation (Proverbs 22:26-27). You must conclude then that some debt is allowed. You can owe money to other people and not be in sin. However, debt carries a responsibility - you must repay your debts. Think about it, borrowing money is a promise to the lender to return the borrowed money". All promises must be kept. Those sons of the Prophet had promised they will return axe. Now, they cried: It was borrowed.

   Have you ever been confronted like this in life? Its called double jeopardy. You borrowed, and you lost. You have to find what you borrowed to return while you're experiencing the pain of the lost. They cried that it was borrowed. If it was their axe, they could have left it, but it was borrowed. Are you feeling their pain?

   Someone says that " Repaying debts is seen as a matter of integrity and righteousness. Being responsible with what we borrow reflects our character and commitment to doing what is right". I agree. Psalm 37:21. 

    If you follow the world financial system, you'll get caught up in borrowing, but you can cry to God to help you get out of debt. I have experienced it, so can you. Tomorrow we will find out how those sons of the prophet got out of debt. They called on their Master. You too have to call your Master, Jesus. Do it now. Good morning.

Dealing with Difficult Assistants

Dealing With Difficult Assistants 

II Kings 5:24-27 NKJV

[24] When he came to the citadel, he took them from their hand, and stored them away in the house; then he let the men go, and they departed. [25] Now he went in and stood before his master. Elisha said to him, “Where did you go, Gehazi?” And he said, “Your servant did not go anywhere.” [26] Then he said to him, “Did not my heart go with you when the man turned back from his chariot to meet you? Is it time to receive money and to receive clothing, olive groves and vineyards, sheep and oxen, male and female servants? [27] Therefore the leprosy of Naaman shall cling to you and your descendants forever.” And he went out from his presence leprous, as white as snow.

  Elijah produduced Elisha. Elisha was meant to produce Gehazi, but Gehazi was a man of the flesh. He needed quick results. He was more focused on the gains of the ministry than the process of the ministry. Every leader encounters this. Between entry and celebration, there's a period of training. It is the time Assistants are made. 

  So Elisha dismissed Naaman. Naaman returned to Syria with a deeper sense of respect for the God of Israel. As far as Gehazi was concerned, the master had missed an opportunity. He believed that you should use any opportunity to squeeze something out of the flock. This was a commercial Minister in the making. So he took it upon himself to run after Naamam and collect some stuff. He considered himself wiser than the Master. Assistants who do so, do not go very far in the ministry. 

  Managing difficult assistants or employees are a major concern for any employer. Here is someone's lamentations: " One of the most perplexing questions that managers in leadership positions face is how to deal with difficult employees. An employee’s problematic behavior and poor attitude can spread quickly, negatively affecting their productivity and that of other members of your team. This can lead to serious repercussions for your entire business, creating a toxic environment that keeps you from satisfying customers and reaching your goals. Dealing with difficult employees is an enormous challenge, but you must do so immediately to minimize the damage".          That information was made available in 2022, yet it fits Gehazi's case adequately. Gehazi did not behave in a professional manner fitting the life of the next generation Prophet.

   Gehazi posed a deep leadership challenge. His behaviour and attitude vould affect a whole generation of the sons of tge prophet. In that act, Gehazi did not go alone. He was already affecting others. A toxic assistant can ruin years of leadership investments. Unless you understand this, there's a tendency to dismiss Elisha as being harsh and unfeeling. If you're confronted with a lying, powerless, and prayerless assistant who refuses to learn from you, what would you do? Share with us. If you're an assistant, share your expectations with us. Good morning.

Gehazi's Greed

 Gehazi's Greed

II Kings 5:20-22 NKJV

[20] But Gehazi, the servant of Elisha the man of God, said, “Look, my master has spared Naaman this Syrian, while not receiving from his hands what he brought; but as the Lord lives, I will run after him and take something from him.” [21] So Gehazi pursued Naaman. When Naaman saw him running after him, he got down from the chariot to meet him, and said, “Is all well?” [22] And he said, “All is well. My master has sent me, saying, ‘Indeed, just now two young men of the sons of the prophets have come to me from the mountains of Ephraim. Please give them a talent of silver and two changes of garments.’ ”

Greed may be described as an excessive and selfish desire for more of something than is needed, especially material gain, social value, or power. It may also be described as an immoderate love for riches and earthly possessions. keep that at the back of your mind as we reread the story of Gehazi. Many, unfortunately have been affected by this virus even in the work of ministry.

   Here are a few Bible verses that warn against greed: 1Timothy 6:9-10, 17-18: "The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil". Ephesians 5:5: "Covetousness, or having an excessive or greedy desire for more, is idolatry". Hebrews 13:5: "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have"  We are not sure whether Gehazi was familiar with these, but the Master's reaction is an indication that greed was just as sinful then as it is now. 

   Greed is considered a deadly sin, meaning it's believed to lead to other sins and immoral behavior. Here's an AI report: " Greed can lead to a psychological obsession that causes people to become willing to cheat, steal, or exploit others to obtain material gain. It can also cause people to neglect family, donate little to charity, or look down on the poor". These all seem to appear on Gehazi's resume. Luke 12:15 sums it up: " Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions". May Gid deliver us from greed, in Jesus Name. Good morning.

Redirected To The Prophet

Redirected To The Prophet 

II Kings 5:8-10 NKJV

[8] So it was, when Elisha the man of God heard that the king of Israel had torn his clothes, that he sent to the king, saying, “Why have you torn your clothes? Please let him come to me, and he shall know that there is a prophet in Israel.” [9] Then Naaman went with his horses and chariot, and he stood at the door of Elisha’s house. [10] And Elisha sent a messenger to him, saying, “Go and wash in the Jordan seven times, and your flesh shall be restored to you, and you shall be clean.” 

That little girl had said if the Master ,Naaman, was with the Prophet . Then Naaman went to the king with a right attitude. Now he is finally directed to the right place and he arrived with a wrong attitude. He became offended because he didn't appear to have received honour as a Syrian King representative. Attitudes are mental positions we carry concerning another person, place or thing. It has the power to make us be positive or negative in our responses to either  God or men. We can let wrong attitudes rob us of divine blessings.

  An Ai scan reveals the impact of attitude on our lives. " Attitudes have a significant impact on how we think, behave, and feel, and they can also affect the people around us: 

 i.Inner world: Attitudes affect our self-talk, thought life, and inner world. 

Behavior: Attitudes shape our behaviors, including the choices we make and the health behaviors we practice. 

 ii. Communication: Attitudes affect how we communicate and collaborate with others. 

  iii. Success and happiness: Attitudes can shape our success and happiness. 

 iv. Mental and physical health: Attitudes can impact our mental and physical health. Research has linked a positive mental state to improved health, including lower blood pressure, a healthier weight, and a reduced risk of heart disease. 

    Our attitudes are so important because they can block  or help us see things from God's perspective. A negative attitude will become an obstacle to God's blessings. Naaman nearly lost it.

   How do you respond when you feel you're not being honoured? That was Naaman's dilemma. It took his servants to beg him to go back and get a healing. Has your attitude robbed you of a blessing? Share with us. Good morning.

Miscommunication

Miscommunication 

II Kings 5:5-7 NKJV

[5] Then the king of Syria said, “Go now, and I will send a letter to the king of Israel.” So he departed and took with him ten talents of silver, six thousand shekels of gold, and ten changes of clothing. [6] Then he brought the letter to the king of Israel, which said, Now be advised, when this letter comes to you, that I have sent Naaman my servant to you, that you may heal him of his leprosy. [7] And it happened, when the king of Israel read the letter, that he tore his clothes and said, “Am I God, to kill and make alive, that this man sends a man to me to heal him of his leprosy? Therefore please consider, and see how he seeks a quarrel with me.”

So Naaman told the story of the Israeli slave girl to his boss, the King of Syria. His reaction was immediate. He wanted Naaman well, but he forgot that he was writing to a King in a different setting and culture. Anytime we forget  people's settings, we tend to be misunderstood in our attempt to convey knowledge or information. That is failure to communicate clearly. 

   Mona Chung in 2011 made an attempt to discuss doing business in China. He described  how this matters of miscommunication can affect international relations.  " Miscommunication refers to the exchange of information that is not effectively understood or interpreted due to differences in perception and cultural background between the sender and the receiver. It often occurs when there is a lack of awareness or understanding of these differences, leading to misunderstandings and communication breakdowns". Think about Syria and Israel. The two nations had periods of open warfare and some periods of peace.

   Imagine a letter from Syria asking the King of Israel to make sure Naaman was well. The King of Israel considered it a provocation for war. The matter would have been intense, but the information got to Elisha. May you be the source to correct  miscommunications. May God cause your requests to be properly understood. May God keep someone with divine answers waiting for your needs in Jesus Name. Later we will explore how God met Naaman in Israel and how he got his healing, because of one slave girl. Good morning.

The Interruption

The Interruption 

II Kings 5:1-3 NKJV

[1] Now Naaman, commander of the army of the king of Syria, was a great and honorable man in the eyes of his master, because by him the Lord had given victory to Syria. He was also a mighty man of valor, but a leper. [2] And the Syrians had gone out on raids, and had brought back captive a young girl from the land of Israel. She waited on Naaman’s wife. [3] Then she said to her mistress, “If only my master were with the prophet who is in Samaria! For he would heal him of his leprosy.” 

In life stories, there are intiating elements that turn the stories into what the audience might not have expected. Its usually an interruption on what could have been a balanced life story. That interuption is called an obstacle. Its impact on the lead character is usually so intense that something has to be done about it. In today's read, we are introduced to a smart military commander, Naaman. His story is what everyone would wish for, except for three letters that introduced the obstacle. Those letters are " but ". 

   " But " is a conjunction with  negative implications. Mirriam Webster says it's a conjunction that means "except for the fact that". It changes the story. What should have been a great story of a Captains exploits, became a tragedy. Read that again. He was a mighty man, but... May God deliver us from every negative intrusion into our life story, in Jesus Name! What a way to change a man's glory. That's all the enemy is looking for. Its trying to gain traction to say: " You were a very good christian but....".  We refuse any such interuption in destiny! Ordinary three letters are used to overthrow one's glory. 

   People outside may not have noticed that he was a leper, but a little girl from Israel did. There's someone who knows who you are, even if the entire church doesn't. The uniform may cover you, but the little girl knows your suffering when you return. 

   Naaman didn't need a cosmetic reform. He needed help. He didnt need multiple uniforms, he needed healing. The girl was young, but she didn't forget what she was taught by the prophet about her God. She was a slave, but she had control. Don't tell me that you don't remember those Sunday school stories. The young girl preached her last sermon to offset that interruption. Preach it darling. And the captain fell for it. Preach to all. You don't know which captain will repent. Tell 'em that God still heals. He does. He still saves the soul. Hallelujah. Be the interuption in someone's tragedy. Change their story. Good morning.

Feeding The Multitude: Old Testament Pattern

Feeding The Multitude: Old Testament Pattern 

II Kings 4:42-44 NKJV

[42] Then a man came from Baal Shalisha, and brought the man of God bread of the firstfruits, twenty loaves of barley bread, and newly ripened grain in his knapsack. And he said, “Give it to the people, that they may eat.” [43] But his servant said, “What? Shall I set this before one hundred men?” He said again, “Give it to the people, that they may eat; for thus says the Lord: ‘They shall eat and have some left over.’ ” [44] So he set it before them; and they ate and had some left over, according to the word of the Lord.

In the Old Testament, this story of Elisha feeding 100 men with 20 loaves of bread foreshadows Jesus' feeding of the 5,000 in the New Testament. Both stories demonstrate that God can do big things through what is given to Him. It doesn't matter wether what is available is a child's lunch or tokens of first fruits. The issue is to be willing to let go first. Let it go for God.

   In both instances, there were leftovers. These leftovers were not wasted. God doesn't like waste. But beyond waste, there's is the fact that what you give to God, He will give you back, a full measure, pressed down shaken together, and running over. God is not in the business of defrauding people. If it is God, then there must be an improvement, with or without your expectations.

   It significant that in both cases, there's a servant who questions the wisdom of the master in presenting what is small to the multitude. There's a difference in how we see. An earhly perception is different from divine perception . It does also appear that the people who served were the very first witnesses of the multiplication. The meal multiplied aa they were served. If our faith is in God, he will multiply what is available to meet what is needed. Our faith must be first in God. Don't look down on what youve been given. God will create profit in all. Good morning.

Death In the Pot

Death In The Pot

II Kings 4:39-41 NKJV

[39] So one went out into the field to gather herbs, and found a wild vine, and gathered from it a lapful of wild gourds, and came and sliced them into the pot of stew, though they did not know what they were. [40]Then they served it to the men to eat. Now it happened, as they were eating the stew, that they cried out and said, “Man of God, there is death in the pot!” And they could not eat it. [41] So he said, “Then bring some flour.” And he put it into the pot, and said, “Serve it to the people, that they may eat.” And there was nothing harmful in the pot. 

This was a miracle of preservation in a battle against ignorance. Someone had ignorantly harvested wild gourds for food. When we are ignorant of things, we lack knowledge or information about the thing. " The Bible says that God's people are destroyed because of their lack of knowledge". Ignorance can lead to defeat, pain, shame, regrets, acting and regretting later. In this instance, it almost led to death. Isa.5:13 is very explicit. People go into spiritual captivity because they are ignorant.

  Mike Okonkwo, the presiding Bishop of Trem says that, "..if you don’t have spiritual understanding, it will be tough to walk worthy of the Lord. If you don’t have insight concerning the things that have been made available to you, the devil will rob you of your lunch. You will be sitting down, watching him and you will be passing the blame on everything". It nearly happened here, except that Elisha knew what to do. This same thing bothered Hoshea  and he cried: " My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge..."( 4:6 ). So people are undone not because the devil is too strong, but because of ignorance.

   Imagine that without knowing what to do, the entire college of the sons of the prophet would have been wiped out. Are you seeking knowledge, spiritually and physically?  Benjamin Franklin says, " Being ignorant is not so much a shame, as being unwilling to learn". Today be willing to stay out of ignorance. Learn. Good morning.

 

God's Vindication Of Our Ministry

God's Vindication Of Our Ministry 

II Kings 4:36-37 NKJV

[36] And he called Gehazi and said, “Call this Shunammite woman.” So he called her. And when she came in to him, he said, “Pick up your son.” [37] So she went in, fell at his feet, and bowed to the ground; then she picked up her son and went out. 

Just because God has blessed you  or cause a prophetic word to come to pass, doesn't mean the enemy will not attempt to cause doubts on your calling or ministry. A casual look at history will show several people who have suffered a similar experience. This child came by a prophetic word. This was an attempt to discredit the word from God. The child died. 

   One of our readers sent me a crucial rejoinder. Would it have been possible that Gehazi failed because he was not properly trained? That's a whole new thesis. Even Elisha had to take time with the child before he came back to life. It took time. So let's forgive Gehazi. This was a satanic strategy to destroy Elisha's ministry and the favour he was enjoying.

   It is at moments like this that some ministers give up, develop self doubt and perhaps abandon ministry. Here's a report from my AI " Billy Graham and Charles Templeton were both young evangelists who experienced doubts about the Bible, God, and the Christian faith. Graham emerged stronger than Templeton, who's faith did not survive the test. Graham had friends to help him through his crisis, which may be why he was able to overcome doubt". Well, Elisha had no one except God. Most times that's the only support you will have. So he prayed, walked around and prayed some more. Our verse today is the testimony. 

   When you have no support to prove ministry, remember, God is the one who called you. He will vindicate your ministry. Moses doubted whether he could lead Israel out of bondage. Its okay to experince intial doubts. Just let God. He will vindicate your ministry. I pray that your faith will not fail. The child will rise again. Thank you Lord! Good morning.

The Difference With The Acts Of Gehaxi

The Difference With The Acts Of Gehazi

II Kings 4:32-33 NKJV

[32] When Elisha came into the house, there was the child, lying dead on his bed. [33] He went in therefore, shut the door behind the two of them, and prayed to the Lord. 

Theres a difference between the acts of Gehazi and Elisha. The one was just drama on instructions, the other was acts with discernment. Before anything, Elisha talked the matter out with God. There lies the difference. The foundation for any Prophetic actions begins with communing with God in prayers.  Let us dig a bit deeper.

   Joan Emery from New Zealand explains how it fits with the spoken word of prayers. " A prophetic act is more than - or differs from - a spoken word of prophecy, or word of knowledge.  It’s an action, something we DO under the anointing and unction of the Holy Spirit as a step of faith, as an act of obedience to release the power, the presence and the victory of God into a situation. Yes, it can include prophecy and words of knowledge, or it can be an act that stands alone without any ‘extras’.  The Bible records many prophetic acts, but there is no set pattern to go by – the Holy Spirit never gets in a rut". 

   Prophetic actions are a  " rise in prophetic proclamations and declarations". And there are moments when our prayers take on prophetic wings. This was it. The child had to come back to life. Elisha had no Elijah around anymore to go and report like Gehazi did, that it didnt work. It had to work. Has anyone been there? Where you say, God has to answer. I have been there several times in my life.

   After the prophetic acts that followed, the child sneezed and came back to life. May every dead circumstances around you receive the Zoe of God, and come back to life. This is a foreshadow  of our resurrection in Christ Jesus. Good morning.

Opportunity For Ministry

Opportunity For Ministry 

II Kings 4:31 NKJV

[31] Now Gehazi went on ahead of them, and laid the staff on the face of the child; but there was neither voice nor hearing. Therefore he went back to meet him, and told him, saying, “The child has not awakened.”

When you serve, watch out for the opportunities that God will provide for your ministry to grow. Here's the first opportunity for Gehazi. What an opportunity it was for him to experience the supernatural. Gehazi didn't read David Abioye's Spiritual Apprenticeship. He should have. Paul admonishes the the Phillipians, " Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me-put into practice." - Phil.4:9. Here was the opportunity to put into practice all the supernatural he had witnessed from the master.

   Here's an excerpt from David Abioye's observations on the matter. "We have a duty to present, protect and preserve the worth of ministry in our generation. How long we stand the challenges of our times is a function of how well we lay our foundation for ministry. It is my observation that every man designs and determines the measure of grace and anointing he receives for fulfilling his calling. Each man‟s results is traceable to his training". What happened to Gehazi raises questions about the grace he received from Elisha. I feel your mind.

In 2 Kings 5:20-27, this same Gehazi ran after Naaman to get a booty of ministry without the Master's consent. You may not be very surprised that he couldn't do what he was asked to do by the master.

    Here's a quote you may need to keep by. " Paul’s method was that of apprenticeship, that is always God’s method of training workers". —Oswald Chambers in Workmen of God. If you're experiencing being used as an apprentice, stay on. Opportunity will come someday. Good morning.

Opportunity For Ministry

Opportunity For Ministry 

II Kings 4:31 NKJV

[31] Now Gehazi went on ahead of them, and laid the staff on the face of the child; but there was neither voice nor hearing. Therefore he went back to meet him, and told him, saying, “The child has not awakened.”

When you serve, watch out for the opportunities that God will provide for your ministry to grow. Here's the first opportunity for Gehazi. What an opportunity it was for him to experience the supernatural. Gehazi didn't read David Abioye's Spiritual Apprenticeship. He should have. Paul admonishes the the Phillipians, " Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me-put into practice." - Phil.4:9. Here was the opportunity to put into practice all the supernatural he had witnessed from the master.

   Here's an excerpt from David Abioye's observations on the matter. "We have a duty to present, protect and preserve the worth of ministry in our generation. How long we stand the challenges of our times is a function of how well we lay our foundation for ministry. It is my observation that every man designs and determines the measure of grace and anointing he receives for fulfilling his calling. Each man‟s results is traceable to his training". What happened to Gehazi raises questions about the grace he received from Elisha. I feel your mind.

In 2 Kings 5:20-27, this same Gehazi ran after Naaman to get a booty of ministry without the Master's consent. You may not be very surprised that he couldn't do what he was asked to do by the master.

    Here's a quote you may need to keep by. " Paul’s method was that of apprenticeship, that is always God’s method of training workers". —Oswald Chambers in Workmen of God. If you're experiencing being used as an apprentice, stay on. Opportunity will come someday. Good morning.