'THERE IS A FRIEND WHO STICK CLOSER THAN A BROTHER.' PROVERBS 18:24 NIV

Building great relationship take time and energy. and you only discover how valuable such relationships are when they're tested. one author writes: 'Contouring your heart to beat with another requires extensive whittling to trim away self-centeredness. It's like riding a bus; if you're going to the company you must be willing to scoot over to accommodate other people and the baggage they bring. your actions in doing this express the importance of the other person. one relationship becomes more valuable than others because its ability to survive and endure realignments.'

The qualities we value most in a friend are two-fold: (1) the assurance that they won’t bail out when the road gets rocky. (2) The knowledge that our imperfections and companions may come to ruin, but there is a friend that sticks closer than a brother. 'It's about quality not quantity. That's why heart connections can be so much stronger than blood connections. Don't be too quick to discount someone's good qualities because they made a mistake, disappointed you or did something without thinking. You wouldn't haul your car to the junkyard because it had a faulty battery or a flat tire! Love means risk, but the payoffs out-weight the investment. Behind very success story you'll find people who once felt so discouraged they wanted to quit, who fell and needed lifting when someone stepped ruin, picked them up and help them to keep going. Life is not built on acquisitions and accomplishments, it’s built on relationships. So keep your in good shape!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Acts 22-23, Luke 9:57 -62. www.mpbs247.org

'LET US NOT JUDGE.' ROMANS 14:13 NKJV

A close second to comparing, is controlling. Often controllers are steeped in religiosity. Their modus-operandi is manipulation, hints and veiled threats. They're not big on grace because they think they know it all (Romans 12:16 TLB). Do you see any of these traits in yourself? Think how much happier you'd be if you weren't trying to control people and outcomes. Dennis Leonard writes, give your loved ones the dignity of making their own mistakes and learning from them. If you're always getting into someone else's business, you're not only going to burn out, you're hindering God from working in their lives...they belong to Him not You!

Dealing with controversy over Jewish food laws, Paul writes, those who feel free to eat must not look down on those who don't. And those who don't...must not condemn those who do, for God has accepted them, (Romans 14:3 NLT). Because you don't feel at liberty to do something, don't condemn those who do: Having strong opinions doesn't sanction you to impose them on others. Even good things can be abused. William Barclay talks about making a tyranny of the Sabbath, surrounding it with a jungle of rules, regulations and prohibitions. Ask yourself if your convictions. Paul says, let each man be fully convinced in his own mind, (Romans 14:6 NKJV). There are times when you need to humbly and prayerfully press on, regardless.

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Acts 20-21, Luke 9:46-56, Ps 46, Pr 16:20-22 www.mpbs247.org

'WE DO NOT...COMPARE OURSELVES.' 2 CORINTHIANS 10:12 NIV

Chuck Swindoll writes: when others don't share your viewpoint, do you find ways to signal your disapproval? How about if somebody drives a newer car, lives in a nicer house, wears their hair a certain way and buys clothes you would never wear? What if they're divorced, or a single parent, or God forbid! In a relationship you don't approve of? Can you live in harmony with them, or do you pull out your comparison rule book? The Bible says we shouldn't compare ourselves...Each of us is an original. Comparing is wrong because it leads to criticism, competition, control, and covetousness. It's an indicator that you're insecure and that grace is a foreign concept to you. Grace means freeing others to be themselves and losing the legalistic attitude that requires them to conform to your standards. Paul addresses this: who are you to judge the servant of another? To his own master he stands or falls; and he will stand, for the Lord is able to make him stand, (Romans 14:4 NASB). Note the words, who are you to judge? Back off; stop trying to do God's job!

Gladys Hunt writes: Acceptance means you're valuable just as you are...you aren't forced into someone else's idea...you can talk to about how you feel...and why...and someone really cares...you can try out ideas without being shot down. You can even express heretical thoughts and discuss them with intelligent questioning. You feel safe. No one will pronounce judgment...even though they don't agree with you. It doesn't mean you'll never be corrected...it's simply means it's safe to be you. When you can say that, and mean it, you're growing in grace!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Acts 18-19, Luke 9:37-45, Ps 42:6-11, Pr 16:17-19 www.mpbs247.org

'WE WALK BY FAITH, NOT BY SIGHT.' 2 CORINTHIANS 5:7

After refusing to worship idols, Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego were thrown in a fiery furnace. Sounds pretty hopeless, eh? Not for the God Who specializes in doing the impossible; Who isn't known for business as usual. When men do something spectacular we can detect human logic behind it. But as one author writes: God doesn't build skyscrapers; men do...and they have the touch of human genius. But you can't find a skyscraper and a star. God honored the Hebrew children's faith by bringing them safely out of the fire. The king himself declared, Blessed be...God...who...delivered His servants who...trust in Him...there is no other god who is able to deliver in this way, (Daniel 3:28-29 NASB).

Many people who appears to be carefree, have anxiety only God understands: money problems, employment issues, health challenges and marital concerns. So God says, transfer all your anxieties to me (See 1 Peter 5:7). When you walk by faith you get answers to prayer that challenge human reasoning. And looking back you realize you couldn't have come up with a better solution yourself. Poet Patrick Overton said, when you come to the edge of all the light you have and are about to droop off into the darkness of the unknown, faith is knowing that one of two things will happen: there will be something solid to stand on, or you'll be taught to fly. Remember, we walk by faith, not by sight. And just when you think you've learned how to do that, you'll face a situation that requires you to learn it all over again!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Acts 16-17, Luke 9:28-36, Ps 42: 1-5, Pr 16:16

'MY PEOPLE HAVE...FORSAKEN...THE...LIVING WATER, AND...DUG...BROKEN CISTERNS.' JEREMIAH 2:13 NIV

It's easy to be content when things in life are going your way. But how often does that happen? The Bible says we are to practice being happy at any time in everything (Philippians 4:12 NCV, because if you put your life on hold waiting for what you want to happen, you may be waiting a long time! Epicurus said; don't spoil what you have by desiring what you don't have. Remember that what you now have was the thing you once hoped for.

Three things constantly feed our discontentment: 1. Greed. When you dwell on what you don't have, you're not enjoying what God's already given you. Be satisfied! Setting goals is good, but stop focusing so hard on the end result and learn to rejoice in the Lord while you're on your way. 2. Fear. It wants you to run from something that's not chasing you. It's the enemy way of a. robbing you of peace and stability; b. tormenting you with that what ifs; c. keeping you from trusting God. The Psalmist said, In God I trust; I will not be afraid. What can mortal man do to me? (Psalm 56:4 NIV). 3. Seeking satisfaction in the wrong places. God said, My people have...forsaken...the...living water, and...dug...broken cisterns that cannot hold water. It's said that we spend our first 50 years searching for security, and the rest of our lives looking for significance. But we don't have to. The hymn writer wrote: now none but Christ can satisfy; no other name for me. There's love, life, and lasting joy, Lord Jesus found in Thee! Are you searching for contentment? Try Jesus!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of Acts 14-15, Luke 9:18-27, Ps 1, Pr 18:10-15 www.mpbs247.org

'TEACH THE OLDER MEN AND WOMEN TO BE...SELF-CONTROLLED.' TITUS 2:2 NIV

Dale Evans (wife of Roy Rogers) loved Jesus with all her heart and made sure folks in Hollywood knew it. Here's one of her prayers:

“Lord, thou know-est better than I know myself, that I'm growing older, and will someday be old. Keep me from getting too talkative; particularly from the fatal habit of thinking I must say something on every subject and on every occasion. Deliver me from the need to try and straighten out everybody's affairs: keep my mind free from the recital of endless details; give me wings to get to the point, I ask for grace to listen to the tales of others' pains; but seal my lips when it comes to my own aches and pains, for they are increasing and my love of rehearsing them gets sweeter as the years go by. I ask not for improved memory, but for a growing humility and less cock sureness, especially my memory seems to clash with the memory of others. Teach me that occasionally  I maybe mistaken. Keep me reasonably sweet. I don't necessarily want to be a saint some of them are so hard to live with. But a sour old woman  or man is one of the crowning works of the devil. Make me thoughtful but not moody, helpful but not bossy. With my vast store of wisdom it seems a pity not to use it; but Thou know-est Lord, I want a few friends at the end. So give me, I pray, the ability to see blessings in unexpected trials and goodness in less-than-perfect people. And give me the grace to tell them so, in Christ's name, amen.'

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Act 13-13, Luke 9:1-17, Ps65, Pr 16:8-9 www.mpbs247.org

'EVERYTHING IS PERMISSIBLE FOR ME BUT' 1 CORINTHIANS 6:12 NIV

Let your flesh know who's in charge. Look for ways to say no to yourself every day. If you do, you'll be able to do it when it really counts. We're not just talking about cardinal sins, but zeroing in on the undisciplined areas of our lives that we excuse, rationalize, or postpone dealing with. Paul writes, Everything is permissible for me but not everything is beneficial.

Everything is permissible for me but I will not be mastered of anything. Paul measures his actions by this yardstick: is it beneficial? Does it have the potential to control me?

How long are you going to keep telling yourself, I know I need to change, and I will tomorrow? You have the right to consume chocolate cake and ice cream at bedtime every night. It's permissible but not beneficial, especially if you want unblocked arteries, sugar free blood, a trim waistline, the ability to run a marathon or maybe just to keep up with your grand-kids. You have the right to spend your time and money as you please but you don't have the right to complain when the law of diminishing returns kicks in and you finish up in the poorhouse. You have the right to fill your mind with any kind of garbage you choose. But understand this, constant exposure to the wrong things will weaken you character, rob you of self-respect and eventually enslave you.

When it comes to replacing bad habits with good ones, only one person is going to make it happen; you. Your character is the sum total of your everyday choices. Day by day, what you think, what you choose and what you do, is who you become.

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Matt 5:9, Rom 12:17-21, Jan 3:17-18, 1Jn 3:1-3 www.mpbs247.org

'HIS WORD IS IN MY HEART LIKE A FIRE.' JEREMIAH 20:9 NIV

If you've ever built a fire you know that its tendency is to go out. You must feed and protect it. Not everyone will help you do that. There are two kinds of people you'll meet in life: fire lighters and fire extinguishers. The first group will inspire you, encourage you and go out of their way to help you. The second group will throw cold water on you. How can you tell the difference? Fire extinguishers use phrases like: it's not in the budget...that's not practical...we've tried that before and it didn't work... if it ain't broke don't fix it...who will do all the extra work?...we don't have enough experience, talent, education, etc.,...who do you think you are? If you've heard one or more of these excuses coming from the people around you, pray for them, love them, but don't let them influence you. Fire extinguishers focus on what's wrong rather on what's right. They find the cloud that comes with every silver lining. They doubt. They resist change. They keep you from reaching higher by trying to put out the fire of your passion. Sometimes they do this deliberately, other times unknowingly. Handle them with care! Instead, spend more time with fire lighters who view you not as you are, but as you could be; who fuel your faith and ignite your passion.

It's estimated that there are about 200 million Christians in the Chinese church today. One of the fire lighters who helped start it was Hudson Taylor. And he's the man who said, the sun has not once risen in China in 40 years, without finding me on my knees in prayer. That's passion!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Acts 10-11, Luke 8:40-56, Ps 14, Pr 16: 6-7 www.mpbs247.org

'I MUST BE ABOUT MY FATHER'S BUSINESS.' LUKE 2:49

Examine the life of Christ. As a boy of 12 He told his parents. I must be about my Father's business. Later He announced to His disciples, we must do the work of him who sent me, (John 9:4 NIV). Note the word “must”. Jesus knew He was called to do and He refused to allow anything to stand in the way of doing it. When you priorities your life according to your God-given passion, you risk being misunderstood and criticized by those who don't understand you or are driven by a different set of priorities. But ask yourself, would I rather live with the pain of regret?

Dr. John Maxwell writes, in the early 1970's I realized that my talents would be maximized and my potential realized only if I matched my passion with my priorities. I was spending too much of my time doing task for which I possessed neither talent nor passion. I had to make a change; to align what I felt strongly about with what I was doing. It made a huge difference in my life. It didn't eliminate my troubles or remove my obstacles, but it empowered me to face them with greater energy and enthusiasm. For more than 30 years I have worked to maintain that alignment of priorities and passion. As I have, I've kept these words near to keep me on track: there are many things that will catch my eye, but there are only a few that catch my heart. It is those I consider to pursue. If your priorities are not aligned with your passion, start making some changes right away!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Acts 8-9, Luke 8:26-39, Ps 146, Pr 16:4-5

'FAN INTO FLAME THE GIFT OF GOD, WHICH IS IN YOU.' 2 TIMOTHY 1:6 NIV

The key to a successful life is knowing who you are (your calling), and what you're supposed to do (your destiny). Without these you're like an octopus on roller-skates; lots of movement but no real direction. Another key is having the spiritual and emotional fuel to get there. There are two kinds of people: 1. those with low flame. When you don't like what you're doing you become like Eddie whose grandmother was an opera lover. When Eddie turned eight she took him to a performance of Wagner, in German. The next day he wrote her a note: Dear Granny, thanks for the birthday present. It's what I always wanted, but not very much. Love Eddie. It's difficult to achieve when you don't have much desire to do so. The old saying is true. Find something you like to do so much that you'd gladly do it for nothing, and if you learn to do it well, someday people will be happy to pay you for it. 2. those with no flame. Some people say they feel burned out. The truth is that many of them were never on fire in the first place. Norman cousins said Death isn't the greatest loss in life. The greatest loss is what dies inside us while we live. If you're not careful you could end up like the man whose tombstone read: Died at 30. Buried at 60. don't let that happen to you. When you find your God0given purpose, with it comes your passion. Will you have to fan that flame? Yes, regularly! But it will energies you and carries you to your destination.

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Acts 6-7, Luke 8:16-25, Ps 140, Pr 16:3 www.mpbs247.org

'MY LIFE IS WORTH NOTHING UNLESS I USE IT FOR DOING THE WORK ASSIGNED ME.' ACTS 20:24 TLB

Paul found God's purpose for his life, and from it came his incredible passion. Notice: a. Passion energizes you! A passionate person with limited ability will outperform a passive person with great ability, because passionate people act with boundless enthusiasm! b. Passion overcomes fear. What makes people take risk, go the extra mile and do whatever it takes to achieve their goals? Passion. As long as the passion is there it doesn't matter how often they fail, or if others are against them, they don't stop until they succeed. c. Passion drives you until you find what you're looking for. Solomon writes, if you...search for wisdom as for hidden treasure, then you will find the knowledge. Socrates led him down to the sea into waist-deep water. Tell me again what you want, he said. Knowledge. Socrates pushed him down under the water, holding him there for 30 seconds. Now, what do you want? The young man sputtered, wisdom, oh great Socrates. Again the philosopher pushed him under. When he let him up again he asked. What do you want? Knowledge, oh wise and...he managed to spit out before Socrates held him under again, this time even longer. What do you want? Repeated Socrates. The younger man coughed and gasped. Air! He shouted, I want air! Socrates replied, when you want knowledge as much as you want air, you'll get knowledge. Then the old man returned to the shore. Bottom line: be passionate!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT:Acts 3:11 – 5:42, Luke 8:1-15, Ps 133, Pr 16:2 www.mpbs247.org

‘PULLING DOWN… STRONG HOLDS; CASTING DOWN IMAGINATIONS…BRINGING INTO CAPTIVITY EVERY THOUGHT.’ CORITHIANS 1:4-5

Paul writes: ‘pulling down….strong holds; casting down imaginations…bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ.’ What are you to pull down? Strong hold: areas of your life that are held in the grip of the enemy. What are you to cast down? Imaginations: always fearing the worst instead of believing God for the best. What are you to take captive? Thoughts: thinking that doesn’t line up with God’s Word or submit to the rule of Christ in your life.

Recognize that you are in a war. Old issues and thought patterns will constantly try to re-establish control over you. Don’t let them. And be careful who your friends are. If they can barely stay afloat themselves, how can they lift you? So long as these old issues reign in your life, Christ’s seat is taken. If they are on the throne, Christ is still on the cross. Put Christ on the throne and your past on the cross!

In the Old Testament a priest could not come into God’s presence if he had touched anything dead (See Leviticus 22:3-4). That means if you are going to walk with God you must bury your old lifestyle. Don’t even touch those old dead issues any more. It also means forgiving those who hurt you, including yourself and then moving on. The issue is not whether you remember but how you remember. God is able to take the sting out of the memory and still leave the sweet taste of victory intact. No longer will you be handicapped or hindered by what you’ve been through; instead you’ll be enriched by it!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Acts 1:1-3:10, Luke 7:36-50, Ps 123, Pr 16:1 www.mpbs247.org www.mpbs247.org

‘TEACH…YOUR CHILDREN AND…THEIR CHILDREN AFTER THEM.’ DEUTERONOMY 4:9 NIV

This hilarious letter was written by a child: ‘A grandmother is a lady who has no children of her own. She likes other people’s little girls and boys. A grandfather is a man grandmother. He goes for walks with boys; they talk about fishing and stuff like that. Grandmothers don’t have anything to do except to be there. They are so old that they shouldn’t play hard or run. It is enough if they drive us to the store where the pretend horse is, and have lots of money ready. Or if they take us for walks, they slow down for things like pretty leaves and caterpillars. They should never say, “hurry up.” Usually grandmothers are fat but not too fat to tie your shoes. They wear glasses and funny underwear. They can take their teeth and gums off. Grandmothers don’t have to be smart, only answer questions like, “Why isn’t god married?” and “How come dogs chase cats?” Grandmothers don’t talk baby-talk like visitors do because it’s hard to understand. When they read to us they don’t skip or mind if it’s the same story over again. Everybody should have a grandmother, especially if they don’t have television because they are the only grown-ups who have time.’

Grandparent, if you’re not happy with the job you did the first time around, you get a second bite at the apple with your kids. Don’t blow it! If your children are raising your grandchildren in the ways of God, encourage them and reinforce their teaching by your own example. If they’ve neglected to do this, step into the gap immediately. ‘Teach…your children and…their children after them.’

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Joel 1-3, Luke 7:24-35, Ps 118:19-29, Pr 15:33 www.mpbs247.org

‘HE GUIDES ME ALONG RIGHT PATH.’ PSALM 23:3 NLT

George Washington said, ‘few men have enough virtue to withstand the highest bidder.’ Yet that’s what we must do to develop the kind of character that will sustain us. It’s not easy to do the right thing when (a) it will cost you; (b) the wrong thing is more expedient; (c) no one but you will know. It’s in those moments that your character becomes strong. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said, ‘Cowardice ask: is it safe? Consensus asks: is it popular? Character asks: is it right?’

During the final play-off of the U.S. Open, Bobby Jones’ ball ended up in the rough just off the fairway. As he set up to play his shot, he accidentally moved his ball. He immediately turned to the marshals and announced a foul. The marshals hadn’t seen the ball move; neither had anyone in the gallery. So they left it up to Jones whether to take the penalty stroke. He did. Later when someone commended him for his integrity, Jones replied, ‘Do you commend a bank robber for not robbing a bank? No, you don’t. This is how the game of Golf should be played at all times. ‘Jones lost the match that day by one stroke, but he maintained his integrity. His character was so well-known that the United States Golf Association’s sportsmanship award came to be named The Bob Jones Award. So do the right thing, and keep doing it. Even if it doesn’t help you move ahead in the short-term, it will protect and serve you well over the long-term. Or as the Psalmist put it, ‘He guides me along the right paths, bringing honor to his name.’

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Matt 5:8, Ps 24:3-6, 2 Pet 3:3-14, Ps 17:15 www.mpbs247.org

‘THE BEST…I CAN D IS ESCAPE TO PHILISTINE COUNTRY.’ 1 SAMUEL 27:1 TM

In a slump you lose your rhythm, feel sluggish and unfocused, and revert to old habits that didn’t work then and don’t work now. It happened to David. On the run from Saul and leading a makeshift army, he started thinking, ‘Sooner or later, Saul’s going to get me. The best…I can do is escape to Philistine country.’ David knew better! In past crises he inquired of the Lord, ‘and consulted trusted advisers. This time he was guided by his fears and ended up defecting to enemy territory. And for a while it felt good. Getting wasted, cheating on your mate, filling your mind with porn may seem enjoyable temporarily, but there’s a way of life that look harmless…look again it leads straight to hell... people appear to be having a good time, but all that…will end in heartbreak’ (proverbs 14:12-13 TM). Eventually the Philistines rejected David and said, ‘He’s not going into battle with us. He’d switch sides in the middle of the fight!’ (1 Samuel 29:4 TM). Be careful; the decisions you make when you are down can have long lasting ramifications. Rejected by the Philistines, overrun by the Amalekites, with no country if his own and no family to come home to, we learn from David to: (1) Seek wise counselors. It’s the last thing you’ll feel like doing because misery loves company. But when you ‘Refuse good advice…your plans fail’ (proverbs 11:14 TM). (2) Stop listening to your fears and listen to God: Standing among the ruins of his life, ‘David found strength in the Lord’ (1 Samuel 30:6 NIV), and you will too.

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Jer 51-52, Luke 7: 11-23, Ps 118:10-18, Pr 15:31-32 www.mpbs247.org

‘DIRECT YOUR CHILDREN ONTO THE RIGHT PATH.’ PROVERBS 22:6 NLT

When Harry and Ada Mae Day brought the first child Sandra home from the hospital, It was to a tiny ranch house without running water, electricity or a school within driving distance. But they refuse to let their surroundings limit them. His father’s death had kept Harry form attending Stanford University, but he never lost hope that his daughter and later sent her to the best boarding schools. One summer the entire family climbed to the dome of every state capitol west of the Mississippi! Sandra did attend Stanford, then law school and eventually became the first women Supreme Court justice in America. The day she was sworn in she donned her robes and took her place among the other justices. Then locked eyes with her family, and the tears began.

Solomon said, ‘Direct you children onto the right path, and when they are older, they will not leave it. ‘What made Sandra Day O’Connor successful? Intelligence and ambition undoubtedly played a part. But much of the credit goes to a determined little woman sitting in a four-room adobe house reading to her kids hour after hour, and to parents who climbed the stairways of capitol domes alongside them. Chuck Swindoll says, ‘As significant as political, military, educational or religious figures may be, none compare to the impact made by mothers. Their words are never fully forgotten, their touch leaves and indelible impression…the memory of their presence lasts a lifetime. I ask you, who else has that kind of influence?’

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Jer 49-50, Luke 7:1-20, Ps 118:1-9, Pr 15:27-30

 ‘GOD…SHAPED EACH PERSON IN TURN.’ PSALM 33:13-15 TM

Paul writes concerning the family of God, ‘Each one of you is a separate and necessary part’ (1 Corinthians 12:27 TLB). But in order to determine where you fit in, it helps to know yourself. For example, what kind of working environment brings out the best in you? Do you thrive on routine? Are you motivated by other people’s needs? Do you enjoy tackling challenges that discourage others? The Bible says, ‘God shaped each person in turn, ‘which means you’re not supposed to be a carbon copy. And how about your relationships? Do you enjoy being a part of a team, or do you function better alone? If only come to life around people, you’ll probably miserable sitting in front of the computer all day. What lights your fire? In the movie Chariots of Fire, Eric Liddell described his zeal for running in these words: ‘God made me to be fast, and when I run I feel His pleasure. ‘What makes you feel like that? There’s a story about a man who was asked if he could play the violin. ‘I don’t know. I’ve never tried!’ he replied. When you think about it, it’s a wise enough answer, because until you’ve tried something how do you know whether or not you’d be any good at it? For instance, a frog maybe a great swimmer but it’s a lousy flier. Some of us, whose heroes are birds, walk around feeling bad about ourselves because we can’t fly. You’re not supposed to! God’s word says, ‘Be content with who you are’ (1 Peter 5:6 TM). Stop flapping around out there and give yourself permission to be the person God made you to be!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Jer 45-48, Luke 6:37-49, Ps 109:16-31, Pr 15:23-26 www.mpbs237.org

‘HE FASHIONS…HEARTS INDIVIDUALLY.’ PSALM 33:15 NKJV

The likelihood of anyone else in history having the same genetic make-up as you is zero. You’re not just another brick in the wall or another nail in the carpenter’s toolbox. God’s personality formed and made you, (Isaiah 43:7 TM).you’re the only He created, so if you feel to be who you are His kingdom wont benefit from your unique contribution. You’re not your parents (which is good news for some of us!) or yourself on. Its okay to learn from others but always be what God called you to be. The Bible says: don’t compare yourself…take responsibility for doing the…best you can with your…life, (Galatians 6:4-5 TM).

The question is: who are you? Before you answer it, you must ask yourself this: what are my strengths? Do you enjoy working with computers or cars or animals? Maybe you’re an adept people-manager or you like fixing things or you’re good with finances. Paul says, God…has made us what we are, (Eph 2:10 TLB). Are there certain jobs that come easily to you and you wonder why others can’t do them? If so, that says something about your particular strengths and you God-given assignment in life. God said of Bezalel the builder, I have filled him with…wisdom…He is skilled in engraving…mounting gemstone…carving wood, (Exodus 31:3-5 NLT). Once you’ve identified what makes your eyes sparkle and your pulse race go for it! Fix your eyes on what lies before you…don’t get sidetracked, (Proverbs 4:25-27 NLT).

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Jer 41-44, Luke 6:27-36, Ps 109:1-15, Pr 15:22 www.mpbs.237.org

‘WATCH HOW I DO IT…LEARN TO LIVE.’ MATTHEW 11:29-30 TM

A recent report says, we can have it all. By working longer, playing harder and multitasking. It’s possible to squeeze 31 hours into 24. But it’ll cost you! The average office interruptions. One in three managers gets sick because of information overload. If technology is saving us all this time and energy, how come we’re so frazzled? When the checkout line doesn’t move fast enough or we can’t find a parking space, we have a meltdown. Madison Avenue and Wall Street won’t tell you this but success brings more opportunities for the enemy to run you into the ground. That’s no way to live and it certainty isn’t what God intended for you.

Jesus said. Are you tired? Worn out? Come to me…recover your life. Ill show you how…work with me watch how I do it…learn to live freely and lightly. Sounds good, doesn’t it but it calls for detoxing your thinking and reprogramming it. One author writes: the Lord cannot relieve the pressure, while you’re in the wrong place at the wrong time doing the wrong thing with the wrong people. If you climb the corporate ladder and neglect your family, His hands are tied because your priorities are out of order. When you're in God’s will you can work hard, but travel light! He’ll carry your burdens and take the weight. Simplifying your life may mean working fewer hours, scheduling downtime and investing more into your loved ones. Our gifts, assignments, personalities and situations are all different, but these principles hold true for everyone. So begin to simplify your life!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Jer 36:27 -40:16 Luke 6:17-26, Ps 79, Pr 15:18-21

‘IF THE MASTER OF THE HOUSE HAD KNOWN WHAT HOUR THE THIEF WOULD COME, HE WOULD HAVE WATCHED.’ MATTHEW 24:43 NKJV

Here are three danger points at which the enemy will attack you: 1. Weariness. In Old Testament times the birthright meant you inherited twice as much of your father’s estate. Normally Esau wouldn’t have considered selling his birthright, but he did in a state of exhaustion. Weariness can cause you to lose perspective and make decisions based on what’s convenient, rather than what’s good for you in the long term. Remember the H.A.L.T. sign: when you’re Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired you’re vulnerable, and you’ll make bad decisions. 2. Excitement. King Herod was seduced by a dancing girl, threw caution to the wind and said, whatever you ask me, I will give you, (Mark 6:23 NKJV). She asked for the head of John the Baptist. And since he was king, Herod couldn’t go back on his word. That moment of indulgence cost Herod his Kingdom and his Life. Be careful where you go looking for excitement, and how you react when you find it. It can cost you the game! 3. Discouragement. In a moment of discouragement Peter did what he swore he’d never do: deny his Lord. Discouragement can make you say things you don’t mean and do things that are out of character. Jude writes; carefully build yourselves up in this most holy faith by praying the Holy Spirit, staying right at the center of God’s love, (Jude 20 TM). Esau’s weariness, Herods excitement, and Peter’s discouragement are what Jesus had in  mind when He said, if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched.’

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Matt Jer 33:1 -36:26, Luke 6:1-16, Ps 137, Pr 15:15-17 www.mpbs247.org

‘EVERY PLACE THAT THE SOLE OF YOUR FOOT SHALL TREAD UPON, THAT HAVE I GIVEN UNTO YOU.’ JOSHUA 1:3

You’ll notice a common thread throughout the Bible. When we really need Him, God shows up and does for us what we can’t do. The rest of the time, which is most of the time, He strengthens us and says keep treading and trusting. There’s no magic carpet. To achieve anything worthwhile you have to walk it out in faith, step by challenging step.

The Book of Job has 42 chapters. In the first 41, Job lived through the loss of his health, his wealth and his family. With friends like Job had, he didn’t need any enemies. His doubts were relentless. Over and over he questioned God but got only silence for an answer. He persevered through tough days and sleepless nights believing, when I'm tried, I shall come forth as gold, (See Job 23:10). Notice: 1. It takes fire to produce gold. 2. Only the refiner knows the degree of heat and amount of the time required. 3. To rush the process is to produce something of lesser value.

God told Israel that every place the soles of their feet trod. He would give to them. C.V. White says. The man who succeeds never waits for the crowd. He strikes out for himself. It takes nerve, it takes a lot of grit, but the man who succeeds has both. Nothing important was ever done but the greater number consulted previously doubted the possibility. Success is the accomplishment of that which people think can’t be done. Complacency, fatigue, criticism and discouragement are hurdles you must constantly overcome. So, keep treading and trusting!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Matt 5:7, Matt 18:21-35, Ps 103:8-18, Lam 3:22-24 www.mpbs247.org

‘WE… ARE BEING TRANSFORMED INTO HIS LIKENESS.’ 2 COR. 3:18 NIV

A man who was feeling depressed went to see a psychiatrist. After sharing his problems he expected some profound words of wisdom that would make him feel better. Well, the psychiatrist exclaimed, I’ve diagnosed your problem. Its low self-esteem and its very common among losers! When you view your self negatively you tend to gravitate toward people who talk down to you. But when you know that God love’s you and plans…to give a future and a hope (Jeremiah 29:11 NLT), Y our entire outlook changes. With God you can’t lose. Even if you stumble and fall he’ll help you to get back up, learn from the experience and move on. When you look at your self you tend to see somebody who makes mistakes and falls short, right? But when you begin to look at your self in the mirror of God’s Word, you see someone being transformed into his likeness.

Ever gone to a garage sale or an antique show looking for a bargain? To the untrained eye match of the stuff looks like rubbish; it may even have been gathering dust and mildew in somebody’s attic. But the experience eye sees treasure in disguise, items that juts need to be cleaned, polished, and restored in order to become valuable again. Well, God’s the expert with a trained eye. When the enemy tells you you’re worthless. God looks inside you and sees hidden treasure. When you out him on the throne of your life He’ll enable you to overcome your past, resist temptation, breakthrough your self impost limitations, and start accepting that in His eyes you have great worth.

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Jer 31-32, Luke 5:27-39, Ps 122, Pr 15:10-14

‘WE WERE LIKE GRASSHOPPERS IN OUR OWN SIGHT.’ NUMBERS 13:33 NKJV

When Moses sent twelve spies to check out the Promise Land, 10 came back saying, we saw giants and we were like grasshoppers in our own sight. Israel had repeatedly witnessed God’s power; why now where they intimidated? It’s a perception problem called low self-esteem, and its how the enemy prevents you from winning. The Israelites quickly forgot their Red Sea deliverance and instead remembered Egypt were they’d lived as slaves. Be careful. Hard times can make you think you don’t deserve to be blessed! Anytime you have something of value, the enemy will attack you. In the Old Testament we read: when the Philistines heard David had been anointed king…they went up in full force to search for him, (2 Samuel 5:17 NIV). Until you claim your right full of placed in Christ, Satan will tell you that you deserve to be mistreated. So steep yourself in God’s word till it becomes such a part of you that you stop doubting yourself. God made you in His image, redeemed you, indwells you, and that makes you valuable!

A man in the Prairie observed an eagle fatally wounded by gunshot he writes; with his eyes gleaming slowly turned his head giving one last longing look towards the sky. He’d often swept those starry spaces with his wonderful wings the sky was the home of his heart. There he displayed his strength a thousand times played with the lightning and raced with the wind. Now far from home, the eagle lay dying because just once, he forgot and flew too low…My soul is that eagle. This isn’t its home. It must never lose its skyward look.

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Jer 28-30, Luke 5:12-26, Ps 110, Pr 15:8-9 www.mpbs247.org

‘YOU WILL KEEP IN PERFECT PEACE HIM WHOSE MIND STEADFAST.’ ISAIAH 26:3

Knowing your purpose gives meaning to your life this why people try dubious methods like astrology and psychics to discover it. When your life has a steadfast purpose you can bear almost anything. Without it, nothing is bearable. Isaiah complained, I have labored to know purpose; I have spent my strength in vain and for nothing (Isaiah 49:4 NIV). Job lamented, I give up; I am tired of leaving. Leave me alone. My life makes no sense (Job 7:16 GNT). Dr. Bernie Siegel found that he could predict which of his cancer patients were most likely to survive by asking, do you want to live to be 100? Those with the deep sense of purpose who answered yes were the ones.

Having a steadfast purpose simplifies life. Defines what you do and what you don’t do. It becomes the standard used to evaluate which activities are essential and which aren’t. without purpose you’ve no real foundation on which to base your decisions, allocate your child and use your resources. You tend to make choices based on circumstances, pressures, and your mood at that moment. When you don’t know your purpose you try to do too much, and that causes stress and conflict. It’s impossible to do everything people want you to do; you have just enough time to do God’s will. He can’t get it all done; you’re trying to do more than God intended. A steadfast purpose makes your lifestyle simpler and your schedule saner. And it leads to peace of mind: you may keep in perfect place Him whose mind is steadfast.

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Jer 25-27, Luke 5:1-11, Ps 102:18-28, Pr 15:4-7

‘GET SOME REST.’ MARK 6:31 NIV

One of the hardest things to do is take a break without feeling guilty and selfish; our worse, feeling like a failure because everything in your to do list didn’t get done. Here’s a new flash: there will always be more to do! One of your biggest challenges will be learning the difference between setting high standards for yourself and setting unrealistic, impossible ones.

We claw our way to success then discover we don’t like the pressure that go with it. So what should we do? Learn to walk away! Jesus did. The Apostles gathered around Jesus and reported to Him all they had done then, because so many people were coming and going that they did not even have a chance to it, he said to them, come with me by yourselves to a quite place and get some rest. So they went away by themselves in a boat to a solitary place, (Mark 6:30-32 NIV). Jesus understood that if you don’t take a break, you’ll break! So: a. make a list of the things that only you can do, then delegate the rest or let them go; b. learn to take small steps and celebrate small accomplishment for that’s what life is made of; c. don’t allow to stuff that’s still undone, to undo you. D. strive for balance; don’t become addicted to what addicted to what you enjoy; e. don’t allow overachievers to put you into overdrive. You’re in for the long haul. You win when you space yourself; f. take time for the people who matter, otherwise you’ll loose them. Busyness is a destroyer of relationships. All the success in the world won’t compensate for the joy and treasure of your family and your loved ones!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Jer 22-24, Luke 4:31-44, Ps 102;12-17, Pr 15:3 www.mpbs247.org

‘PRACTICE THESE THINGS. DEVOTE YOUR LIFE TO THEM.’ 1 TIMOTHY 4:15 GWT

Why does change take so long? Because: 1. We are slow learners. How often have you failed and thought, not again! I thought I knew better. The history of Israel illustrates how quickly we forget the lessons God teaches us and revert to old attitudes and patterns of behavior. That’s why; we must pay more careful attention, therefore, to what we have heard, so that we do not drift away, (Hebrews 2:1 NIV). 2. We have a lot to unlearn. We go to a counselor with a problem that took years and develop and say, fix me. I’ve got an hour. Whoa! Your problems didn’t develop overnight and they won’t disappear overnight. There’s no pill, prayer or principle that will instantly undo the damage of many years. It requires the hard-work of removal and replacement. The bible calls this, taking off the old self, and putting on the new self, (Eph 4:22-23 NIV). We still have old patterns, practices and predispositions that need to be dealt with. 3. Growth is painful. Every change involves a loss of some kind. We must let go of our old ways in order to experience the new life Christ promised. And we fear these losses, even if our old ways are self-defeating, because, like a worn-out pair of shoes, they are comfortable and familiar. 4. Habits take time to develop. Your character is the sum total of your habits. And there is only one way to develop the habits of Christ-like character: you must practice them over and over! There are no instant habits. That’s why Paul urged Timothy to practice these things. Devote your life to them.

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Matt 5:6, Is 55:1-7, Ps 63:1-5, Jn 4:1-34 www.mpbs247.org

‘I WILL MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO SEE THAT AFTER MY DEPARTURE YOU WILL ALWAYS BE ABLE TO REMEMBER THESE THINGS.’ 2 PETER 1:15 NIV

Some of us think we deserve respect simply because of our position. No, respect must be earned; daily. General J. Lawton Collins asserted, no matter how brilliant a man may be he will never engender confidence in his subordinates and associates if he lacks honestly and moral courage. ‘ultimately, all the skills in the world won’t save you if your character is flawed. Author Stephen Covey writes, if I try to use human influence strategies and tactics to get other people to do what I want…and my character is fundamentally flawed…in the long run I cannot be successful. My duplicity will breed distrust, and everything I do will be perceived as manipulative. It makes no difference how good the rhetoric is or even how good the intentions are; if there is little or no trust, there is no foundation for permanent success. Character can be built, but only slowly. If you want to know how long it will take you to get to the top, consult a calendar. If you want to know how long it will take you fall to the bottom, try a stopwatch, dreams become shattered, possibilities are lost, organizations crumble and people are hurt when a person doesn’t have character protecting his talent. Character provides the opportunity for longevity in any career, any relationship, and any worthwhile goal. Author and Pastor J. R Miller wrote: the only thing that walks back from the grave with the mourners and refuses to be buried is the character of a man. What a man is, survives him, and that makes a lasting difference!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Jer 14-17, Luke 4:1-13, Ps98, Pr 14:34 www.mpbs247.org

‘DON’T GET WORKED UP.’ MATTHEW 6:34 TM

Everything you can go wrong has! You’re teenager pierced his nose, the dog threw up on the carpet, the toilets overflowing, and the car’s leaking fluid. No wonder you’re stressed! When life gets overwhelming remember:

1.      God’s still looking out for you. When things look bad remind yourself that God’s bigger than your problem: don’t get worked up what may or may not happen tomorrow. God will help you deal with whatever hard things come up when the time comes.

2.      Don’t think about quitting! Every time you reach the breaking point it’s a test you have before you a series of choices that will add up to either quitting our persevering through to victory. Paul was flogged, thrown in jail shipwrecked and run out of town. But he refused to give in to circumstances and in the end he was able to say, I have fought the good fight finished the race and remained faithful, (2 Timothy 4:7 NLT).

3.      If it doesn’t have your name on it, don’t pick it up! Stress comes from micro-managing others and assuming responsibilities that aren’t yours. Establish healthy boundaries. If you’re not sure what’s appropriate, ask God to show you how much to get involved in the lives of friends and family.

4.      You’re breaking point can be the start of a breakthrough. Ever heard the special hitting the wall? Runners used it when they’re exhausted and feel like giving up. But seasoned at rates now if they pushed through they’ll get their second wind and experience a runner's high that’ll carry them over the finish line. So keep going; by God’s grace you’ll make it.

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Matt 5:6, Is 55: 1-7, Ps 63:1-5, Jn 4:1-34 www.mpbs247.org

‘I`M AWAKE ALL NIGHT.’ PSALM 77:4 TM

You can’t escape stress, but you learn to cope with it by taking control of your life in a small but important ways. Here are two:

1.      Think about someone other than yourself. David was so frazzled that he was awake all night. Ever been there? That’s when you need to let…praises shape your worries into prayers; letting God knows your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together, will come and settle you down, (Philippians 4:6 TM). Elijah was depressed and suicidal when God showed him how to help himself. How? By leading the cave he was hiding in, and going out and ministering to others. Focusing on something other than yourself gives you perspective. Paul says, the God of all healing counsel comes alongside when we go through hard times and brings as alongside someone else going through hard times so we can be there for that person as God was there for us, (2 Cor. 1:3-4 TM). Do you need help? Reach out to others. It’s in connecting that we are made whole.

2.      Don’t get bitter. Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you respond to it. Archbishop Fulton Sheen said, nothing creates more deep-seated anxiety than the false assumption that life should be free from anxieties. When somebody you trust betrays or disappoints you or you’re struggling financially after tithing faithfully for years, it’s easy to hard-done-by. But don’t become bitter, (Hebrews 12:15 CEV). It destroys relationships and cuts you off from God’s presence. The answer is learning to thank God no matter what happens. This is the way God’s wants you…to live, (1 Thessalonians 5:18 TM).

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Jer 10-13, Luke 3:21-37, Ps 95, Pr14:29-33

'WHEN I WAS...BESIDE MYSELF, YOU CALMED ME DOWN.' PSALM 94:19 TM

Before a violin can produce music, stress must be put on the strings. But pull them too tightly and they'll snap. The same is true of you. Enough stress gets the juices flowing and helps you do what needs to be done, but beyond that you snap. Someone quipped; you know you're on overload when you've no time to cook a TV dinner; the cats on tranquilizers and family reunions have to be mediated by law enforcement! Seriously, before it gets to that point, do two things:

1. ask for help: during Hurricane Katrina eight dolphins were swept out of their aquarium into the sea, but because they stuck together they were rescued. If one had tried to go it alone he'd have perished. When you're alone too much you lose perspective. If the enemy can Isolate you, he can influence you. God designed His family to stay connected. Or as Paul says, 'So that all the members care for each other' (Corinthians 12:25 NLT).
   
   


2. Get real with God: Under stress the surge of negative emotions can be overwhelming, and unless you unburden your soul before God you'll explode at the wrong people. The Psalmist addresses this: cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you, (Psalm 55:22 NIV). Pour out your heart before Him; God is a refuge for us, (Psalm 62:8 NKJV). It's no more coincidence that many of the Psalms start out with the Psalmist crying out to God for help, and end up with him rejoicing because he vented his pent-up frustrations.

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Jer 7-9, Luke 3:11-20, Ps 64, Pr 14:25-28 www.mpbs247.org

'WE WHO...BELIEVED ARE ABLE TO ENTER...GOD'S REST.' HEBREWS 4:3 NCV

After spending half their lives in the wilderness, the Israelites blamed it on their enemies. But it was their own attitude! Because God was...angry they were not allowed to enter...God's rest, because they did not believe' (Hebrews 3:17-19 NCV). Their doubting, complaining and blame-shifting kept them stuck in the wilderness; and it'll do the same to you. It starts with feeling sorry for yourself and thinking, If only I'd been born into a different family, had a better paying job, a more spiritual mate, etc., this wouldn't be happening. And from there it spirals downward into a full blown pity party where everybody else is responsible for your problems. The truth is, ninety-nine per cent of the time the solution begins with change of attitude in you!

Another wilderness attitude that'll keep you stuck, is insisting on doing everything you way! Stubbornness will keep you stumbling around in the wilderness, seeing the promised land but never reaching it. Offering a sacrifice to God before going into battle was the way to victory. Only one problem: Samuel the prophet was the only one qualified to offer such a sacrifice. But pride and stubbornness made King Saul think he could. As a result he lost his life and Israel went down in defeat, Samuel told Saul, because you have rejected God's word, God has rejected you as king, (See 1 Samuel 15:26). Understand this: you don't have to do anything to earn God's love, but you must obey Him in order to walk in His Blessings. So, what has God told you to do? If you want victory in your battles and success in your endeavors, start doing it!

Evangelist Philip Jegede’s Reading Courtesy of DWFT: Jer 4-8, Luke 3:1-10, Ps 59:9-17, Pr 14:23-24 www.mpbs247.org