Category: Open Heavens Devotional

The Open Heavens 16 May 2026 devotional for today is RAISING GODLY BOYS.

This is a daily devotion written by Pastor E. A. Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

• Read: RCCG Open Heavens 15 May 2026 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVENS 16 MAY 2026 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: RAISING GODLY BOYS

MEMORISE

Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.
Proverbs 22:6

READ: 1 Samuel 2:18-26

18 But Samuel ministered before the Lord, being a child, girded with a linen ephod.
19 Moreover his mother made him a little coat, and brought it to him from year to year, when she came up with her husband to offer the yearly sacrifice.
20 And Eli blessed Elkanah and his wife, and said, The Lord give thee seed of this woman for the loan which is lent to the Lord. And they went unto their own home.

21 And the Lord visited Hannah, so that she conceived, and bare three sons and two daughters. And the child Samuel grew before the Lord.
22 Now Eli was very old, and heard all that his sons did unto all Israel; and how they lay with the women that assembled at the door of the tabernacle of the congregation.
23 And he said unto them, Why do ye such things? for I hear of your evil dealings by all this people.

24 Nay, my sons; for it is no good report that I hear: ye make the Lord’s people to transgress.
25 If one man sin against another, the judge shall judge him: but if a man sin against the Lord, who shall intreat for him? Notwithstanding they hearkened not unto the voice of their father, because the Lord would slay them.
26 And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the Lord, and also with men.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVENS 16 MAY 2026 TODAY MESSAGE

In many societies today, more focus is placed on training girls than boys. While it is good to train female children to become responsible adults, the same focus must also be given to training boys; they must not be neglected. Every boy is a man in the making and the future leader of a home, church, organisation, or nation.

Zechariah 13:7 says,
“…smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered…” The devil understands this, so he tries to strike future shepherds before they are grown so that the sheep they are meant to guide will be scattered.

Every little boy around you is going to be a leader tomorrow, and the kind of leader he will be is dependent on the way he is raised today.

Samuel lived in the same house as the irresponsible sons of Eli, but he was not like them because he was a product of prayer (1 Samuel 1: 11), dedication (1 Samuel 1:25-28), and godly grooming (1 Samuel 1:22).

If you are a parent, you must ensure that you pray for your boys constantly and dedicate them to God. You must spend quality time with them, grooming them to become good men who are well-suited to serving God. If you do these, with God helping you, you will raise men like Samuel.

The Bible tells us that Jesus grew in wisdom, stature, and favour with God and man (Luke 2:40, 52). That is the divine pattern – every boy should be nurtured to grow spiritually, mentally, emotionally, and physically.

For example, statistics show that many prison inmates had irresponsible fathers who were not present in their lives. Also, many boys today are left to be trained by social media, ungodly friends, and worldly music. Some parents only correct their sons after they have gotten someone pregnant, dropped out of school, or been sent to jail. It is better to train them when they are young than try to change them later; prevention is better than deliverance.

Today is the International Day of the Boy Child, and I urge all parents, guardians, and the Church to invest in boys just as they invest in girls. We must teach boys to pray and respect authority. We must also teach them the fear of God so they can build godly families when they are grown.

I pray that every boy child will grow up into responsible leaders who will please the Lord with their lives, in Jesus’ name.

KEY POINT

Every boy is a future leader, and they must be given the best training possible to help them become responsible leaders in society.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

2 Chronicles 32-34

Open Heavens HYMN 33: GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH!

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL 16 MAY 2026 COMMENTARY

MEMORISE: Proverbs 22:6

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

This verse is one of the most quoted promises in Scripture regarding parenting. It contains both a command and a promise. The command is to train—not just to feed, clothe, or house, but to actively shape the direction of a child’s life. The promise is that the training will stick. It does not guarantee the child will never wander, but it guarantees that the foundation will remain. When the child is old, the training will call him back.

BIBLE READING: 1 Samuel 2:18-26

This passage contrasts the boy Samuel with the sons of Eli. Samuel, a child dedicated to God by his mother Hannah, ministered before the Lord, wearing a linen ephod. He grew in favor with God and man. Meanwhile, Eli’s sons, Hophni and Phinehas, were wicked men who despised the Lord’s offering and committed immorality at the tabernacle. They ignored their father’s weak rebukes. The passage ends with a striking verse: “And the child Samuel grew on, and was in favour both with the LORD, and also with men.” This passage demonstrates that the way a child is raised—with prayer, dedication, and godly grooming—determines the adult he becomes.

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The Neglected Boy Child

In today’s devotional, Pastor E.A. Adeboye (Daddy Adeboye) addresses a critical issue that affects the future of families, churches, and nations: the training of the boy child. In many societies, more focus is placed on training girls than boys. While this is not wrong—girls absolutely need training—boys must not be neglected. Every boy is a man in the making. Every boy is a future leader of a home, church, organization, or nation.

The Devil’s Strategy Against Future Shepherds

The devotional reveals the devil’s strategy: “Smite the shepherd, and the sheep shall be scattered” (Zechariah 13:7). The enemy understands that if he can destroy the future leader, the people he is meant to lead will be scattered.

• Destroy the boy, and the future family will collapse.
• Destroy the boy, and the future church will have no pastor.
• Destroy the boy, and the future nation will have no godly leader.

The devil tries to strike future shepherds before they are grown. He attacks them through neglect, through ungodly influences, through broken homes, through social media, through worldly music, through absent fathers. If he can capture the boy, he can scatter the sheep.

Samuel vs. The Sons of Eli

The Bible reading gives a powerful contrast between two sets of boys raised in the same environment.

The sons of Eli, Hophni and Phinehas:

• They were raised in the tabernacle—the house of God.
• Their father was the high priest.
• They had every spiritual advantage.
• But they became wicked men who despised God’s offering, committed immorality, and ignored correction.
• Their end was death and judgment.

The boy Samuel:

• He lived in the same house as Eli’s irresponsible sons.
• He saw the same things they saw.
• But he was different.
• Why? Because he was a product of prayer, dedication, and godly grooming.

Samuel’s mother Hannah had prayed for him before he was born (1 Samuel 1:11). She dedicated him to God (1 Samuel 1:25-28). She invested in his spiritual training before he even went to the tabernacle (1 Samuel 1:22). As a result, Samuel grew in favor with God and man, while Eli’s sons grew in wickedness.

The difference was not the environment—it was the upbringing.

The Divine Pattern: Jesus

The devotional points to Jesus as the divine pattern for raising boys. Luke 2:40, 52 says that Jesus grew in four dimensions:

1. Wisdom (mentally) — He grew intellectually. His mind was trained.
2. Stature (physically) — He grew in body. His health was attended to.
3. Favor with God (spiritually) — He grew in relationship with the Father.
4. Favor with man (socially) — He learned to relate to others.

Every boy should be nurtured in all four areas. Not just spiritually, but mentally, physically, and socially. A boy who is only trained in one area will be unbalanced. A boy who is neglected in any area will be vulnerable.

The Consequences of Neglecting Boys

The devotional cites a sobering statistic: many prison inmates had irresponsible fathers who were not present in their lives. The absence of a godly father is a pipeline to prison.

Other consequences of neglecting boys:

• They are left to be trained by social media, which promotes ungodly values.
• They are left to ungodly friends, who lead them into trouble.
• They are left to worldly music, which corrupts their minds.
• They are only corrected after they have gotten someone pregnant, dropped out of school, or been sent to jail.

“Prevention is better than deliverance.” It is better to train a boy when he is young than to try to change him after he has destroyed his life.

How to Raise a Boy Like Samuel

If you are a parent, guardian, or church leader, here is how to invest in the boy child:

1. Pray for Them Constantly
Hannah prayed for Samuel before he was conceived. Prayer should not stop after birth. Pray for your boys daily—for protection, for wisdom, for godly friends, for their future spouses, for their calling.

2. Dedicate Them to God
Hannah gave Samuel back to God. Do not raise your boys for your own glory or success. Raise them for God’s purpose. Dedicate them to His service. When they know they belong to God, they will not easily belong to the devil.

3. Spend Quality Time Grooming Them
Training takes time. You cannot outsource the raising of your children to schools, churches, or babysitters. You must be present. You must talk to them, correct them, encourage them, and model godliness before them.

4. Teach Them to Pray
A boy who knows how to pray has a weapon that no enemy can defeat. Teach them to talk to God, to depend on God, to seek God’s guidance. Prayer will keep them when you cannot be with them.

5. Teach Them to Respect Authority
Eli’s sons had no respect for authority—not for their father, not for God, not for the people. Teach boys to respect parents, teachers, pastors, elders, and civil authorities. Respect for authority now becomes respect for God later.

6. Teach Them the Fear of God
The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom. A boy who fears God will not easily fall into sin. He will not be easily led astray. He will have a compass that points him back to righteousness.

7. Invest in Their Spiritual, Mental, Physical, and Social Growth
Do not only focus on grades or sports. Train the whole boy. Feed his mind with truth. Feed his body with proper nutrition and exercise. Feed his spirit with Scripture and prayer. Feed his social skills with healthy relationships.

A Call to the Church and Parents

Today is the International Day of the Boy Child. The devotional calls parents, guardians, and the Church to invest in boys just as they invest in girls.

• The Church must create programs that disciple young men.
• The Church must mentor boys, not just entertain them.
• Parents must model godly manhood before their sons.
• Parents must be present, not just providers.

“Every boy is a man in the making and the future leader of a home, church, organization, or nation.” What you invest in him today will determine what he becomes tomorrow.

Conclusion: Raise Men Like Samuel

The devotional ends with a prayer and a vision: raise boys who will become men like Samuel—men who grow in favor with God and man, men who lead with integrity, men who serve God all their days.

• Do not leave your boys to be raised by the world.
• Do not wait until they are in crisis to correct them.
• Do not assume that someone else will do the job.

Train them. Pray for them. Dedicate them. Groom them. Love them. And with God’s help, you will raise men who will not depart from the way they should go.

Pray this:
“Father, I thank You for every boy child—my own, my grandchildren, my nephews, the boys in my church and community. Forgive me for the times I have neglected their training or focused only on the girls. Give me wisdom to raise boys like Samuel—prayerful, dedicated, and godly. Protect them from the enemy who wants to strike them as future shepherds. Help me to invest in their spiritual, mental, physical, and social growth. Raise up a generation of godly men who will lead their families and nations for Your glory. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Action Steps:

• If you are a parent of a boy: Set aside time this week specifically to talk with him about his future, his faith, and his fears. Listen more than you speak.
• If you are a church leader: Evaluate your church’s programs for boys. Are they being discipled, or just entertained? Make changes if needed.
• If you are a mentor: Consider investing in a boy who does not have a godly father figure in his life. Your presence could change his destiny.
• If you are a boy reading this: You are not too young to serve God. Samuel served God as a child. Jesus grew in favor with God as a boy. Seek God now. Your future depends on it.
• Pray for the boy child: This week, pray specifically for the boys in your life—by name—for protection, guidance, and godly development.

• Facebook: RCCG Live

Read RCCG Open Heavens Devotional for Tomorrow

Download Open Heavens 16 May 2026 Devotional PDF

The Open Heavens 15 May 2026 devotional for today is MIND YOUR FOOTPRINTS III.

This is a daily devotion written by Pastor E. A. Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

• Read: RCCG Open Heavens 15 May 2026 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVENS 15 MAY 2026 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: MIND YOUR FOOTPRINTS III

MEMORISE:

And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.
Hebrews 12:13

READ: Matthew 5:14-15

14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.
15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVENS 15 MAY 2026 TODAY MESSAGE

Today, technology is advancing at an incredibly rapid rate. Technological innovations spring up every day, and people are scrambling to keep up.

While it is essential for us as Christians to be at the cutting edge of what God is doing in our various industries and fields, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us as we navigate this digital age is much more crucial.

Beloved, no matter how fascinating a technological innovation might be, you must always remember that you are first a child of God and an ambassador of God’s kingdom. Sadly, some Christians have lost their way in today’s digital age.

They have completely forgotten their identity, so they follow all kinds of trends, regardless of whether they align with God’s values or not. For instance, many Christians post and share all sorts of content on social media just to get likes, shares, and followers. Such Christians leave unrighteous digital footprints and misrepresent the Lord. They allow unbelievers to blaspheme God’s name because of their conduct and actions.

If you are a Christian, you are the light of the world, and you are a city set on a hill which cannot be hidden. This means that whatever you do will be seen by many people. Therefore, your digital footprint, including everything you post on the internet, will reach the devices of millions of people across the world.

Social media, for example, is one technological innovation that can be used to shine your light to many people around the world. With social media, you have an easy opportunity to be a global evangelist for God’s kingdom; therefore, you must maximise it and not misuse the opportunity it presents by posting ungodly content on your social media platforms.

Do not put your candle under a bushel of worldliness and carelessness. Despite the speed of technological advancement today, you have been called to represent Christ wherever you are and with everything you have. 

Another advantage of maximising your digital footprint to shine the light of God’s kingdom is that digital footprints outlive people. For example, the late Bishop Benson Idahosa has been dead for many years, but we can still find many of his teachings online.

Beloved, what will your digital footprint look like when you have finished your assignment here on earth? I pray that you will always glorify God with your use of technology and in everything you do, in Jesus’ name.

KEY POINT

Let your digital footprint reflect the light of God.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

2 Chronicles 20:1-30

Open Heavens HYMN 33: GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH!

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL 15 MAY 2026 COMMENTARY

Here is the detailed commentary and interpretation for today’s devotional.

MEMORISE: Hebrews 12:13

“And make straight paths for your feet, lest that which is lame be turned out of the way; but let it rather be healed.”

This verse uses the imagery of a straight path to describe the Christian life. A crooked path causes those who are already struggling (“the lame”) to stumble further. But when you make your path straight—clear, upright, and well-marked—you help not only yourself but also those following behind you. In the context of today’s devotional, your digital footprint is part of that path. When you post crooked, unrighteous content, you cause others to stumble. When you post straight, godly content, you help heal those who are spiritually lame.

BIBLE READING: Matthew 5:14-15

“Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid. Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.”

Jesus declares that His followers are not meant to be hidden. A city on a hill cannot be concealed. A candle is not lit to be covered but to illuminate. This passage applies directly to your online presence. The internet is the modern “hill” and the “candlestick.” Your posts, shares, comments, and likes are your light. The question is not whether people will see you—they will. The question is: what will they see when they look?

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Your Digital Footprint as a Believer

In today’s devotional, Pastor E.A. Adeboye (Daddy Adeboye) brings his series on footprints to a contemporary application: your digital footprint. Technology is advancing rapidly, and Christians must navigate this new terrain with wisdom. While staying current in your field is important, it is far more crucial to let the Holy Spirit guide your online presence. Your identity as a child of God must shape everything you post, share, and like.

The Danger of Losing Your Identity Online

The devotional warns that some Christians have lost their way in the digital age. They have forgotten who they are. They chase likes, shares, and followers at the expense of their witness. They post content that is ungodly, worldly, or careless—simply because it is popular or trending.

“They allow unbelievers to blaspheme God’s name because of their conduct and actions.”

This is a sobering statement. When you post something inappropriate, unbelievers do not just criticize you—they mock your God. Your careless post becomes an excuse for them to reject the gospel. Your attempt to fit in becomes a reason for them to blaspheme.

You are not just representing yourself online. You are representing the King of kings.

The City on a Hill Cannot Be Hidden

The Bible reading reminds us that as believers, we are a city set on a hill. This means:

• You are visible. People are watching. Even if you have a private account, your posts can be screenshotted and shared. Nothing online is truly private.
• You are influential. Someone is being affected by what you post—whether positively or negatively.
• You are accountable. God sees everything you post, and one day you will give an account.

“Whatever you do will be seen by many people. Your digital footprint will reach the devices of millions of people across the world.”

A single post can travel across continents in seconds. A single comment can be screenshotted and saved for years. Your digital footprint is permanent, public, and powerful.

Social Media: A Tool for Global Evangelism

The devotional does not condemn technology. On the contrary, it sees social media as a powerful opportunity for evangelism.

“With social media, you have an easy opportunity to be a global evangelist for God’s kingdom.”

Think about this. Fifty years ago, reaching millions of people required a stadium, a sound system, and weeks of planning. Today, you can reach millions with a single post from your living room. You can share a scripture, a testimony, a prayer, or a word of encouragement that travels around the world while you sleep.

Do not misuse this opportunity. Do not put your candle under a bushel of worldliness and carelessness. Let your light shine—not to draw attention to yourself, but to draw people to Christ.

Digital Footprints Outlive People

The devotional makes a striking observation: digital footprints outlive people. Long after you are gone, your online content remains.

The example given: The late Bishop Benson Idahosa has been dead for many years, but his teachings are still available online. New generations continue to be blessed by his ministry because his digital footprint preserved his voice.

• What will your digital footprint say about you when you are gone?
• Will your grandchildren find posts that honor God or embarrass them?
• Will strangers be blessed by your content or offended by it?
• Will your online legacy draw people to Christ or push them away?

You are writing your digital epitaph with every post.

How to Maximize Your Digital Footprint for God’s Glory

1. Remember Your Identity First
Before you post, remind yourself: I am a child of God. I am an ambassador of heaven. I represent the King. Does this post align with that identity?

2. Let the Holy Spirit Guide
Before you hit “share,” pause and ask the Holy Spirit: Should I post this? Is this the right time? Will this glorify You? Technology moves fast, but wisdom moves deliberately.

3. Post What You Would Say in Person
If you would not say it face-to-face, do not post it online. The screen is not a shield. Your words have the same power whether spoken or typed.

4. Use Your Platform for the Gospel
You do not need to preach in every post. But you can consistently share scripture, testimonies, prayers, and encouragement. Let your feed be a source of light, not darkness.

5. Delete What Does Not Belong
Go back through your social media history. Delete anything that does not honor God. If you are ashamed of it now, remove it. Cleanse your digital footprint.

6. Think About the Generations to Come
Before you post, ask: Would I want my grandchildren to see this? Would I be happy for this to be the last thing people remember of me? Let eternity shape your posting habits.

What Will Your Digital Footprint Look Like?

The devotional ends with a searching question: “What will your digital footprint look like when you have finished your assignment here on earth?”

• Will it be a footprint of righteousness or recklessness?
• Will it be a footprint of encouragement or offense?
• Will it be a footprint of wisdom or foolishness?
• Will it be a footprint that leads people to Christ or away from Him?

You have the power to decide. Every post is a choice. Every share is a seed. Every comment is a footprint.

Conclusion: Shine While You Can

You have been given a platform—whether large or small. You have been given a voice—whether to thousands or to dozens. Use it for His glory.

Do not hide your light under a bushel of worldliness. Do not let the pressure for likes and shares silence your witness. Do not let the speed of technology outrun your obedience.

Shine. Post. Share. Represent. And when your time on earth is done, may your digital footprint continue to point people to Jesus.

Pray this:
“Father, I thank You for the technology that allows me to reach people I will never meet. Forgive me for the times I have posted ungodly content, chased likes instead of souls, or hidden my light under worldliness. Help me to remember that I am a city on a hill—visible, influential, and accountable. Guide every post, every share, every comment. Let my digital footprint glorify You and draw others to Your kingdom. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Action Steps:

• Audit your social media: Go back through your posts from the last year. Delete anything that does not honor God.
• Post something edifying today: Share a scripture, a testimony, or an encouragement. Let your light shine.
• Set a filter: Before you post anything, ask: Would Jesus post this? Would I want my pastor to see this? Would I be ashamed if this went viral?
• Pray before you post: Develop the habit of a quick prayer before hitting “share.” Let the Holy Spirit be your editor.
• Leave a legacy: Think about what you want your digital footprint to say about you in 50 years. Start building that legacy today.

• Facebook: RCCG Live

Read RCCG Open Heavens Devotional for Tomorrow

Download Open Heavens 15 May 2026 Devotional PDF

The Open Heavens 14 May 2026 devotional for today is MIND YOUR FOOTPRINTS II.

This is a daily devotion written by Pastor E. A. Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

• Read: RCCG Open Heavens 13 May 2026 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVENS 14 MAY 2026 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: MIND YOUR FOOTPRINTS II

MEMORISE

A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.
Proverbs 13:22

READ: Matthew 7:16-20

16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
17 Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
18 A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
19 Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
20 Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVENS 14 MAY 2026 TODAY MESSAGE

If a fellow constantly takes the wrong steps in life, there is a high tendency that his or her children will do the same. However, if the fellow takes good steps in life by making the right decisions, his or her children will also have a greater chance of taking good steps in life. This is because children naturally follow their parents’ footprints.

For example, in society today, there are many men who, despite hating their fathers for beating their mothers, have become wife-beaters themselves.

This is because the moment their fathers opened themselves up to the spirit behind that violent and evil act, they allowed that spirit to have access to their sons also.

Years ago, a single mother asked my wife to speak to her daughters to stop engaging in illicit relationships with men. When my wife started speaking to the girls, one of them said, “Please, counsel our mother to also stop bringing all sorts of men to the house.” The daughters were only taking after their mother, and they knew that as long as she continued in that behaviour, it would be difficult for them to stop.

If you want to be a good parent, decide today to leave a good legacy for your children to follow. Don’t become a bad example to them; rather, determine to be the kind of parent they can look up to and emulate.

Some parents think they can do certain things in secret without their children knowing, but believe me, children know far more than people think they know. They can sense many things that are going on around them.

Sometimes, children inherit certain traits from their parents even before they are born. For example, in Genesis 20:2, Abraham lied to Abimelech that Sarah was his sister. Several years later, Isaac, who had not yet been born when Abraham lied to Abimelech, repeated the same lie (Genesis 26:7).

Isaac’s son, Jacob, continued the pattern of deception when he stole his brother’s blessing by lying to his father (Genesis 27:1-29), while Jacob’s sons conspired to deceive their father about what happened to Joseph, their brother (Genesis 37:31-33).

Beloved, don’t cultivate unhealthy patterns and habits because your children will be in line to inherit them from you, and unless God intervenes, such negative patterns will continue from generation to generation. Determine today to leave footprints of godliness and righteousness that your children can follow.

I pray that the Almighty God will help you as you commit to this, in Jesus’ name.

REFLECTION

What kind of legacy do you want to leave behind for your children?

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

2 Chronicles 25-28

Open Heavens HYMN 59: I WANT TO BE LIKE JESUS

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL 14 MAY 2026 COMMENTARY

Here is the detailed commentary and interpretation for today’s devotional.

MEMORISE: Proverbs 13:22

“A good man leaveth an inheritance to his children’s children: and the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the just.”

This verse reveals that godly living has multigenerational impact. A good man does not just provide for his immediate children—he leaves an inheritance for his grandchildren. But the verse also distinguishes between material wealth and spiritual legacy. The sinner may accumulate wealth, but that wealth eventually passes to the righteous. More importantly, the good man leaves something far more valuable than money: a legacy of character, faith, and righteousness that blesses generations to come.

BIBLE READING: Matthew 7:16-20

“Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.”

This passage teaches that you can identify the nature of a tree by its fruit. A thorn bush cannot produce grapes; a thistle cannot produce figs. The fruit reveals the root. Applied to parenting, this means that the fruit you see in your children is often a reflection of the root that you have planted. If you want good fruit in your children, you must be a good tree yourself.

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The Inheritance Your Children Will Follow

In today’s devotional, Pastor E.A. Adeboye (Daddy Adeboye) continues his series on longevity and finishing well. He has covered many secrets: hiding, fighting, running, refueling, rest, avoiding the devil’s traps, enduring persecution, using the name of Jesus, and sowing good seeds. Today he addresses a crucial dimension of finishing well: the legacy you leave for your children and grandchildren. Your footprints do not disappear when you die—your children will walk in them.

The Pattern of Inherited Behavior

The devotional begins with a sobering observation: children naturally follow their parents’ footprints. If a father constantly takes wrong steps, his children will likely do the same. If a mother makes poor decisions, her daughters will often repeat them.

The example given: There are many men who, despite hating their fathers for beating their mothers, have become wife-beaters themselves. They despised the violence, they swore they would never repeat it—but they did.

Why? “Because the moment their fathers opened themselves up to the spirit behind that violent and evil act, they allowed that spirit to have access to their sons also.”

This is not just psychology—it is spiritual. When you engage in sin, you are not just damaging yourself. You are opening a door that your children may walk through. The enemy does not just attack you; he attacks your lineage.

The Mother Who Blamed Her Daughters

The devotional shares a revealing testimony. A single mother asked Daddy Adeboye’s wife to speak to her daughters about stopping their illicit relationships with men. The mother was concerned about her daughters’ behavior and wanted them corrected.

But when the pastor’s wife began to counsel the girls, one of them responded: “Please, counsel our mother to also stop bringing all sorts of men to the house.”

The daughters were not the source of the problem—they were the fruit of the problem. Their mother was living in sexual sin, and her daughters were simply following her example. As long as she continued, it would be difficult for them to stop.

This is the painful reality: You cannot expect your children to live differently than you live. They may not say it. They may even rebel against it. But patterns are caught, not just taught.

The Lie That Traveled Through Three Generations

The devotional gives a biblical example of how sin passes from generation to generation. Abraham lied about his wife Sarah, calling her his sister to protect himself from Abimelech (Genesis 20:2).

Isaac, who had not even been born when Abraham told that lie, repeated the same lie. Years later, when Isaac went to the same region, he told the same king that his wife Rebekah was his sister (Genesis 26:7). The pattern continued.

Jacob, Isaac’s son, continued the pattern of deception. He lied to his blind father, pretending to be Esau, and stole his brother’s blessing (Genesis 27:1-29).

Jacob’s sons continued the pattern. They conspired to deceive their father about what happened to Joseph, dipping his coat in goat’s blood and pretending a wild animal had killed him (Genesis 37:31-33).

Four generations of deception. The lie started with Abraham, and it kept reproducing. This is the power of a negative legacy.

What Children Really See

The devotional makes a powerful statement: “Children know far more than people think they know. They can sense many things that are going on around them.”

Parents think they can hide their sins. They think they can do certain things in secret without their children knowing. They close the bedroom door. They wait until the children are asleep. They conduct business calls in private. They post on social media under fake names.

But children are perceptive. They sense tension. They notice changes in mood. They overhear conversations. They see the phone hidden. They know when something is wrong—even if they cannot name it.

You may think you are keeping secrets, but your children are absorbing patterns that will shape their entire lives.

The Good News: You Can Break the Cycle

The devotional is not all warning—it also offers hope. You can decide today to break the cycle. You can determine to be the kind of parent your children can look up to and emulate.

How to leave a positive legacy:

1. Decide Today
The change starts with a decision. “I will not continue the patterns of my parents that were destructive. I will not pass on the sins of my ancestors. I will be a different tree.”

2. Repent and Renounce
If there are generational sins in your family line—anger, sexual sin, lying, addiction, violence—repent on behalf of your ancestors and renounce the pattern. Pray: “I break the cycle of [specific sin] in my family line. It stops with me.”

3. Become the Example You Want to See
Do not just tell your children what to do—show them. If you want them to be honest, be honest. If you want them to be pure, be pure. If you want them to love God, love God openly and passionately. Your life is their curriculum.

4. Create New Patterns
Abraham’s pattern of deception was broken only when his descendants turned back to God. You can start new patterns today—family devotions, honest communication, forgiveness, kindness. These new seeds will produce a new harvest.

5. Pray for Your Children and Grandchildren
The memory verse speaks of leaving an inheritance to your children’s children. That inheritance includes prayer. Pray over your grandchildren even before they are born. Pray over your great-grandchildren. Your prayers can reach generations you will never meet.

What Kind of Tree Are You?

The Bible reading asks a simple question: Does a good tree produce bad fruit? No. Does a bad tree produce good fruit? No. The fruit reveals the tree.

• If your children are angry, check your anger.
• If your children are dishonest, check your honesty.
• If your children are rebellious, check your submission to God.
• If your children are distant from God, check your own relationship with Him.

You cannot give what you do not have. You cannot lead where you do not go.

Conclusion: Leave Footprints Worth Following

The devotional ends with a prayer and a challenge: “Determine today to leave footprints of godliness and righteousness that your children can follow.”

Your children are watching. Your grandchildren will hear stories about you. The patterns you set today will echo for generations.

• Will they remember a parent who loved God passionately?
• Will they remember a parent who was honest, kind, and pure?
• Will they remember a parent who broke the cycle and started something new?

The choice is yours. Decide today. The legacy starts now.

Pray this:
“Father, I come before You as a parent, a grandparent, and a future ancestor. Forgive me for the patterns I have inherited and for the patterns I have passed on. I break every cycle of sin in my family line—anger, lying, sexual sin, addiction, violence. It stops with me. Help me to be the example my children need. Let my footprints lead them to You. I determine today to leave a legacy of godliness and righteousness. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Action Steps:

• Examine your family patterns: Write down the negative patterns you have observed in your family line—anger, addiction, divorce, dishonesty, etc. Be honest.
• Renounce each pattern: Pray specifically over each one, declaring that it stops with you.
• Ask your children (if they are old enough): “What is one thing you wish I did differently?” Listen without defensiveness.
• Start a new pattern this week: Choose one positive habit to model—family prayer, honest conversation, controlled anger, kindness—and practice it intentionally.
• Pray over your grandchildren: If you have grandchildren, pray for them by name. If you do not yet, pray for the generations to come. Your prayers are part of their inheritance.

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Read RCCG Open Heavens Devotional for Tomorrow

Download Open Heavens 14 May 2026 Devotional PDF

The Open Heavens 13 May 2026 devotional for today is MIND YOUR FOOTPRINTS I.

This is a daily devotion written by Pastor E. A. Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

• Read: RCCG Open Heavens 12 May 2026 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVENS 13 MAY 2026 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: MIND YOUR FOOTPRINTS I

MEMORISE

Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.
Hebrews 12:1

READ: Galatians 6:7-8

7 Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap.
8 For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVENS 13 MAY 2026 TODAY MESSAGE

All human beings on earth leave their footprints in the sands of time. While some leave negative footprints, others leave positive ones. The actions you take today are the footprints you are leaving behind, and they will determine your future.

Today’s Bible reading says that you will reap whatever you sow. Just as you cannot plant onions and expect to reap apples, you must be intentional about the seeds you sow in your journey through life if you want to get the best out of your time on the earth. You must act and speak carefully every day to ensure that you do not jeopardise your future by sowing the wrong seeds.

In this age and time, one of the popular places a fellow can leave negative footprints is on the internet. There is even a popular saying that the internet never forgets. You should be mindful of the things you post on social media and your communication on the internet in general. Posting negative content and portraying inappropriate behaviour online might come back to haunt you later in future. However, if your digital footprint is good, you will not need to worry about any negative impact.

Today’s memory verse says that we are surrounded by a cloud of witnesses. Many people think that this refers to the hosts of heaven alone.

However, the devil and his agents are also watching every move you make, and they are on the lookout for any mistake they can use against you in the future. Furthermore, your fellow human beings are also part of the cloud of witnesses that are observing every move you make.

Beloved, do not think you can do some things in secret without anyone knowing about them. Even if no one sees you, God sees you, and the hosts of heaven are recording all your actions.

In Jeremiah 17:10, God said, “The LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.” He is constantly looking at your heart and evaluating your thoughts and actions. Therefore, you must ensure that you renew your mind daily with His word (Romans 12:2) and honour Him with your actions (Colossians 3:17).

Make a commitment today to never engage in anything that will have a negative effect on your future. I pray that the Lord will continually guide you to do the right things at the right time, in Jesus’ name.

KEY POINT

Do not be deceived; you shall reap whatever you sow.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

2 Chronicles 21-24

Open Heavens HYMN 33: GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH!

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL 13 MAY 2026 COMMENTARY

Here is the detailed commentary and interpretation for today’s devotional.

MEMORISE: Hebrews 12:1

“Wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us.”

This verse describes the Christian life as a race. The “cloud of witnesses” refers to the faithful heroes of chapter 11—Abraham, Moses, Rahab, and others who have finished their races. They are not just spectators; they are evidence that finishing is possible. Their lives testify that you can run and win. But the verse also warns that weights and sins will slow you down. To finish well, you must lay them aside.

BIBLE READING: Galatians 6:7-8

“Be not deceived; God is not mocked: for whatsoever a man soweth, that shall he also reap. For he that soweth to his flesh shall of the flesh reap corruption; but he that soweth to the Spirit shall of the Spirit reap life everlasting.”

This passage states one of the most unbreakable laws in the universe: the law of sowing and reaping. You cannot mock God by thinking you can plant one thing and harvest another. If you sow to the flesh—indulging sin, selfishness, and worldliness—you will reap corruption. If you sow to the Spirit—obedience, righteousness, and generosity—you will reap everlasting life. The law is absolute. The harvest is certain.

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The Footprints You Leave Behind

In today’s devotional, Pastor E.A. Adeboye (Daddy Adeboye) continues his series on longevity and finishing well. He has covered many secrets: hiding, fighting, running, refueling, rest, avoiding the devil’s traps, enduring persecution, and using the name of Jesus. Today he addresses a sobering reality: the footprints you leave in the sands of time. Your actions today become your legacy tomorrow. And you will reap exactly what you have sown.

The Inescapable Law of Sowing and Reaping

The devotional begins with a simple agricultural principle: you cannot plant onions and expect to reap apples. The seed determines the harvest. This is not punishment—it is physics. It is not God being angry—it is God being consistent.

Galatians 6:7-8 makes three things clear:

1. Do not be deceived. You cannot fool God. You cannot cheat the system. You cannot sow sin and somehow avoid its consequences.

2. God is not mocked. The word “mocked” means to turn up your nose or treat with contempt. When you think you can sin without reaping, you are mocking God. He will not be mocked.

3. You will reap what you sow. Not what you intend. Not what you hope. Not what you pray. What you actually plant. Your harvest is the inevitable result of your planting.

The Digital Footprint: A Modern Warning

The devotional addresses a contemporary reality: the internet never forgets. What you post on social media, what you comment, what you share, what you like—these become digital footprints that can follow you for decades.

• A careless post made in anger at 19 can cost you a job at 35.
• An inappropriate photo shared in a moment of foolishness can disqualify you from leadership at 50.
• A public argument with a brother or sister can be screenshotted and used against you years later.

“Posting negative content and portraying inappropriate behavior online might come back to haunt you later in future.”

But the reverse is also true. If your digital footprint is good—if you have used your online presence to encourage, teach, and glorify God—you will not need to worry. Your past will not rise up to shame you.

The Cloud of Witnesses Is Larger Than You Think

The memory verse speaks of a “cloud of witnesses.” Many believers think this refers only to the heroes of faith in heaven—the angels, the departed saints, the heavenly host.

But the devotional expands this: “The devil and his agents are also watching every move you make, and they are on the lookout for any mistake they can use against you in the future. Furthermore, your fellow human beings are also part of the cloud of witnesses that are observing every move you make.”

This means:

• Angels are watching. They record your obedience and cheer you on.
• Demons are watching. They wait for an opening to accuse and attack.
• People are watching. Your children, your spouse, your colleagues, your neighbors—they see what you do in public and sometimes in private.

You are never alone. You are never unobserved. Someone is always watching.

The God Who Searches the Heart

The devotional quotes Jeremiah 17:10: “The LORD search the heart, I try the reins, even to give every man according to his ways, and according to the fruit of his doings.”

This is perhaps the most sobering truth of all. Even if no human sees you, even if the devil misses it, even if the angels look away—God sees. He does not just observe your actions; He searches your heart. He examines your motives, your thoughts, your secret desires.

• You may fool your pastor, but you cannot fool God.
• You may hide from your spouse, but you cannot hide from Him.
• You may delete the post, but He remembers.
• You may rewrite history, but He was there.

God is constantly looking at your heart and evaluating your thoughts and actions.

How to Sow Good Seeds

If you want to leave positive footprints and reap a good harvest, here is what you must do:

1. Renew Your Mind Daily (Romans 12:2)
Your actions come from your thoughts, and your thoughts come from what you feed your mind. If you feed on the world, you will think like the world and act like the world. But if you renew your mind with God’s word, you will think like God and act like God. Daily Bible reading is not optional—it is the plow that prepares your soil for good seed.

2. Honor God with Your Actions (Colossians 3:17)
“Whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus.” Not just on Sunday. Not just in church. In everything—work, home, online, in private, in public—do it as if Jesus is standing beside you. Because He is.

3. Be Intentional About Your Seed
You do not accidentally sow good seed. You must be intentional. Plan to speak kindly. Plan to act honestly. Plan to post uplifting content. Plan to help others. The harvest does not happen by accident; neither does the planting.

4. Guard Your Digital Footprint
Before you post, ask: Would I want this on the front page of a newspaper? Would I want my children to read this in ten years? Would I be ashamed if Jesus returned while I was typing this? If the answer gives you pause, do not post.

5. Remember That Nothing Is Secret
Even if no human sees, God sees. Even if no one finds out in this life, the judgment seat of Christ will reveal everything. Live today as if everything you do will be broadcast to the universe—because one day, it will be.

What Kind of Footprints Are You Leaving?

The devotional asks a question that every believer must answer:

• Are you leaving footprints of righteousness or rebellion?
• Are you sowing seeds of peace or conflict?
• Are you building a legacy of faithfulness or a history of compromise?
• Will those who come after you be blessed by your footprints or burdened by them?

“The actions you take today are the footprints you are leaving behind, and they will determine your future.”

Conclusion: Run to Win, Not Just to Finish

The memory verse calls us to run with patience the race set before us. But running is not enough. You must run in such a way as to win. You must lay aside every weight and sin. You must sow to the Spirit, not to the flesh.

Do not be deceived. God is not mocked. What you sow, you will reap.

• Sow righteousness, and reap honor.
• Sow kindness, and reap friendship.
• Sow generosity, and reap abundance.
• Sow to the Spirit, and reap life everlasting.

Make a commitment today to never engage in anything that will have a negative effect on your future.

Pray this:
“Father, I thank You that Your law of sowing and reaping is unbreakable. Forgive me for the times I have sown to my flesh, thinking I could avoid the harvest. Help me to be intentional about every seed I plant—in my words, my actions, my online presence, and my private life. Let me leave footprints that will bless the generation to come. I commit to renewing my mind daily with Your word. Guide me to do the right things at the right time. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Action Steps:

• Review your digital footprint: Go through your social media accounts from the past year. Delete anything that does not honor God or that you would be ashamed for others to see.
• Examine your private life: Is there any secret behavior that would embarrass you if exposed? Confess it and turn from it today.
• Be intentional about sowing: This week, deliberately plant one seed of kindness, one seed of generosity, and one seed of encouragement. Do not wait for opportunity—create it.
• Remember the witnesses: Before you act or speak today, remind yourself: angels, demons, people, and God are watching. Let that awareness shape your choices.
• Run with patience: The race is long. Do not give up because the harvest seems slow. Keep sowing. Keep running. The reaping will come.

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The Open Heavens 12 May 2026 devotional for today is THE NAME OF JESUS.

This is a daily devotion written by Pastor E. A. Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

• Read: RCCG Open Heavens 11 May 2026 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVENS 12 MAY 2026 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: THE NAME OF JESUS

MEMORISE

Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.
Acts 4:12

READ: Philippians 2:9-11

9 Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name:
10 That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth;
11 And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVENS 12 MAY 2026 TODAY MESSAGE

Many years ago, my driver and I were travelling from Ibadan to llorin, a city in the North-Central region of Nigeria. There was a narrow bridge along the way, and only one vehicle could drive on it at a time.

Therefore, drivers had to wait for any vehicles that were coming from the opposite direction of the bridge to pass through before they could get on the bridge. When we reached the foot of the bridge, we observed that no vehicle was coming from the opposite direction; therefore, we got on the bridge and began to drive to the other side.

When we were halfway across the bridge, we suddenly saw that a truck was coming from the opposite direction at top speed. We had only two choices: we could either collide with the oncoming truck or swerve and plunge into the river under the bridge. There was no time to pray, but there was enough time to shout the name of Jesus. We eventually met the truck in the middle of the bridge, and somehow, we passed beside it and drove safely to the other side.

My driver was so shaken that he immediately parked the car when we crossed over. When he regained his composure, he turned to me and asked what had just happened, and I told him that God enlarged the bridge for us.

The name of Jesus is powerful; it guarantees deliverance (Mark 16:17), freedom (John 836), promotion (John 12:32), rest (Matt 11:28-30), satisfaction (John 7:37-39), answers to prayer (John 14:14), and victory (1 Corinthians 15:57).

Philippians 2:9 also tells us that His name is above every name. This means that everything that has a name is subject to the name of Jesus. If there is any ailment that has been plaguing you, as long as it has a name, it is inferior to the name of Jesus because at His name, every knee bows (Philippians 2:10).

Beloved, Jesus has given you the authority to use His name (John 16:23-24). This means that you have the ability to control situations and align them to God’s will for your life. Never despair when you are faced with negative situations; instead, proclaim the name of Jesus boldly, and you will surely emerge victorious.

I pray that the power in the name of Jesus will destroy every plan of the devil concerning you and your household.

Henceforth, you will walk in victory at all times, in Jesus’ name.

KEY POINT

The name of Jesus is superior to every other name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

2 Chronicles 17-20

Open Heavens HYMN 1: ALL HAIL THE POWER OF JESUS’ NAME

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL 12 MAY 2026 COMMENTARY

Here is the detailed commentary and interpretation for today’s devotional.

MEMORISE: Acts 4:12

“Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved.”

This verse makes an exclusive claim that offends the modern world: there is only one name that saves. Not many names. Not any name. One name. The name of Jesus Christ is not just a powerful name among many—it is the only name that carries the authority to forgive sins, redeem souls, and reconcile humanity to God. Peter spoke these words after healing a lame man, and he was willing to die for this declaration.

BIBLE READING: Philippians 2:9-11

“Wherefore God also hath highly exalted him, and given him a name which is above every name: That at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, of things in heaven, and things in earth, and things under the earth; And that every tongue should confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

This passage describes the exaltation of Jesus after His humiliation on the cross. Because He humbled Himself to death—even death on a cross—God the Father raised Him to the highest place and bestowed on Him the name above every name. The scope of this authority is total: heaven, earth, and under the earth (the realm of the dead). Every knee will bow—whether willingly now or forcibly later. This passage teaches that the name of Jesus carries absolute, universal, and eternal authority.

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The Name That Enlarged a Bridge

In today’s devotional, Pastor E.A. Adeboye continues his series on longevity and finishing well. He has covered hiding, fighting, running, refueling, rest, avoiding the devil’s traps, and enduring persecution. Today he reveals another secret: the power in the name of Jesus. His personal testimony is a dramatic illustration of what happens when a believer uses that name in a moment of crisis.

The Narrow Bridge and the Speeding Truck

The devotional opens with a vivid testimony from Daddy Adeboye’s travels. He and his driver were traveling from Ibadan to Ilorin. Along the way, there was a narrow bridge—so narrow that only one vehicle could be on it at a time. Drivers had to wait for oncoming traffic to clear before crossing.

When they reached the bridge, no vehicle was coming from the opposite direction, so they began to cross. Halfway across, a truck appeared from the opposite direction—speeding toward them at top speed.

They had two choices: collide with the truck or swerve and plunge into the river below. There was no time to pray a long prayer. There was no time to call a prayer meeting. But there was enough time to shout the name of Jesus.

They met the truck in the middle of the bridge. Somehow—impossibly—they passed beside it and drove safely to the other side.

The driver was so shaken that he parked the car immediately. When he regained his composure, he turned to Daddy Adeboye and asked, “What just happened?”

Daddy Adeboye’s answer: “God enlarged the bridge for us.”

That is what the name of Jesus does. When there is no room, He makes room. When there is no way, He makes a way. When the enemy is speeding toward you with destruction, that name clears the path.

What the Name of Jesus Guarantees

The devotional lists several things that the name of Jesus guarantees for believers:

1. Deliverance (Mark 16:17)
Jesus said, “In my name shall they cast out devils.” Every demon, every unclean spirit, every force of darkness must submit to the name of Jesus. You do not need to fear them—you need to use His name against them.

2. Freedom (John 8:36)
“If the Son therefore shall make you free, ye shall be free indeed.” The name of Jesus breaks every chain—addiction, bondage, oppression, generational curses. What no therapy, medication, or effort could do, His name accomplishes instantly.

3. Promotion (John 12:32)
“And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me.” When you exalt the name of Jesus, He exalts you. Promotion comes from His name.

4. Rest (Matthew 11:28-30)
“Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.” The name of Jesus calms anxious hearts, quiets troubled minds, and brings peace that surpasses understanding.

5. Satisfaction (John 7:37-39)
“If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink.” The name of Jesus satisfies the deepest longings of the human soul—for purpose, for love, for meaning.

6. Answers to Prayer (John 14:14)
“If ye shall ask any thing in my name, I will do it.” Not some things—anything. The name of Jesus opens heaven’s storehouse.

7. Victory (1 Corinthians 15:57)
“Thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Not just victory sometimes—victory at all times. His name guarantees the win.

The Name Above Every Name

Philippians 2:9 declares that God gave Jesus “a name which is above every name.”

What does this mean? It means that everything that has a name is subject to the name of Jesus.

• Every sickness has a name—malaria, cancer, diabetes, hypertension. That name must bow to the name of Jesus.
• Every demon has a name—spirit of fear, spirit of infirmity, marine spirit. That name must bow to the name of Jesus.
• Every problem has a name—poverty, barrenness, marital failure, business collapse. That name must bow to the name of Jesus.
• Every person has a name—the one who opposes you, the one who persecutes you, the one who stands in your way. That name must bow to the name of Jesus.

“At the name of Jesus, every knee should bow.” Not some knees. Not most knees. Every knee—in heaven, on earth, and under the earth. The devil himself will bow to that name.

You Have Authority to Use His Name

The devotional makes a crucial point: Jesus has given you the authority to use His name. John 16:23-24 records His words: “Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.”

When you speak in the name of Jesus, you are not just saying a magic word. You are exercising the authority that Jesus Himself has given you. It is like a police officer saying, “Stop in the name of the law.” The officer does not have personal power—but the law backs his words. Your personal power is insufficient, but the name of Jesus backs your words.

Never despair when faced with negative situations. Instead, proclaim the name of Jesus boldly, and you will surely emerge victorious.

How to Use the Name of Jesus

1. Speak It Boldly
The disciples in Acts 4 prayed for boldness to speak God’s word, and the place was shaken. Do not whisper the name of Jesus as if you are ashamed of it. Speak it boldly. The enemy knows that name, and he trembles at it.

2. Speak It Immediately
In the testimony, there was no time to pray a long prayer—but there was time to shout the name of Jesus. When crisis strikes, do not wait. Do not hesitate. Shout His name. It is the fastest prayer you can pray, and it carries infinite power.

3. Speak It in Faith
The name of Jesus is not a magic formula. It works when spoken in faith. If you doubt, you neutralize its power. But if you believe that Jesus is who He said He is and that He has given you authority to use His name, then your words carry heaven’s weight.

4. Speak It Over Everything
Do not limit the use of His name to church services or prayer meetings. Use it over your family, your finances, your health, your business, your children. Use it when you wake up and when you go to bed. Use it in traffic and in boardrooms. The name of Jesus belongs in every area of your life.

The Name That Destroys the Devil’s Plans

The devotional concludes with a prayer: “I pray that the power in the name of Jesus will destroy every plan of the devil concerning you and your household.”

The devil makes plans. He strategizes. He schemes. He sets traps. But the name of Jesus destroys those plans. Not delays them—destroys them. Not weakens them—destroys them.

When you speak that name, the enemy’s plans crumble. The bridge enlarges. The truck misses you. The way opens.

Conclusion: The Name Is Your Weapon

You do not need to face life’s battles in your own strength. You have been given a name that is above every name. Use it.

• Sickness? In the name of Jesus, be healed.
• Fear? In the name of Jesus, be gone.
• Poverty? In the name of Jesus, be broken.
• Marriage trouble? In the name of Jesus, be restored.
• Enemy attack? In the name of Jesus, be scattered.

The name of Jesus is your victory. Speak it. Believe it. Walk in it.

Pray this:
“Father, I thank You for the name of Jesus—the name above every name. I thank You that every knee must bow to that name, including every problem, every sickness, every demon, and every enemy. I receive the authority to use that name. I will not face my battles in my own strength. I will proclaim the name of Jesus boldly. Today, I speak that name over every negative situation in my life. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Action Steps:

• Practice speaking the name of Jesus aloud: Start today. Say it over your morning, your family, your work, your health. Make it a habit.
• Identify a “narrow bridge” situation: What area of your life feels like there is no room, no way out? Begin to speak the name of Jesus over that situation daily.
• Memorize Philippians 2:9-11: Write it down and keep it visible. Let it remind you that every knee will bow to that name.
• Use His name immediately in crisis: Do not wait for a long prayer time. Shout His name. It is the fastest and most powerful prayer you can pray.
• Destroy the devil’s plans through declaration: Each morning, declare: “I destroy every plan of the devil concerning me and my household in the name of Jesus.”

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The Open Heavens 11 May 2026 devotional for today is BLESSED ARE THE PERSECUTED.

This is a daily devotion written by Pastor E. A. Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

• Read: RCCG Open Heavens 10 May 2026 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVENS 11 MAY 2026 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: BLESSED ARE THE PERSECUTED

MEMORISE

Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
2 Timothy 3:12

READ: Matthew 5:10-12

10 Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
11 Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake.
12 Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVENS 11 MAY 2026 TODAY MESSAGE

All Christians will experience tribulations in the world (John 16:33), and being persecuted is one of the tribulations that every true believer must face.

It is true that persecution is naturally unpleasant; however, it is a thing of joy to know that Jesus promised in Matthew 5:10 that those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake are blessed and will inherit the kingdom of heaven.

Today’s memory verse says that every believer who chooses to live a godly life must experience some form of persecution, whether it is severe or mild. In whatever form it comes, persecution is naturally unpleasant. Therefore, to escape it, some believers compromise their faith and begin to conform to the world.

As a believer, your witness for Christ will not be effective if you compromise your faith at every hint of persecution. Christians who compromise their faith in the face of persecution miss the opportunity to become more effective witnesses for Christ.

Every time the apostles endured persecution, they were presented with a greater opportunity to witness Christ to others. In Acts 4:1-3, the religious leaders in Jerusalem ordered Peter and John to be thrown in jail until the next day and threatened them severely not to preach in the name of Jesus anymore.

After that incident, the apostles experienced God’s power in a greater dimension and received more boldness to speak God’s word (Acts 4:3133). When they were scattered abroad after Stephen’s death, they witnessed Christ everywhere they went, and the gospel spread mightily as a result (Acts 8:4).

Child of God, whether you are persecuted for not compromising your Christian values or outrightly punished for preaching the gospel, God’s grace is sufficient to keep you from turning away from Him.

His strength will carry you through every difficult moment when you keep your focus on Him. If you are experiencing persecution for being a Christian, know that you are not alone. When Jesus appeared to Saul on the road to Damascus, He referred to Himself as Jesus, the One whom Paul was persecuting (Acts 9:4-5). This means that those who persecute you are also persecuting Jesus, and He is fully with you in your tribulations.

Beloved, don’t ever give up on your faith in the face of persecution; instead, draw strength from the One who promised that He will never leave you nor forsake you (Hebrews 13:5). He is the ever-present help in times of trouble (Psalm 46:1), and He will be with you always, even to the end of the world (Matthew 28:20).

KEY POINT

Blessed are those who endure persecution for righteousness’ sake; they shall inherit the kingdom of God.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

2 Chronicles 12-16

Open Heavens HYMN 10: IN CHRIST ALONE

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL 11 MAY 2026 COMMENTARY

MEMORISE: 2 Timothy 3:12

“Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.”

This verse is one of the most direct promises in Scripture about the cost of following Jesus. It does not say that some believers might suffer persecution. It does not say that persecution is possible only in certain countries or certain eras. It says all who choose to live godly lives in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution. Persecution is not a sign that something has gone wrong—it is a sign that you are living right.

BIBLE READING: Matthew 5:10-12

“Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are ye, when men shall revile you, and persecute you, and shall say all manner of evil against you falsely, for my sake. Rejoice, and be exceeding glad: for great is your reward in heaven: for so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.”

This passage is part of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount, often called the Beatitudes. Unlike the world’s definition of blessing—wealth, comfort, popularity—Jesus pronounces blessing on those who suffer for righteousness. He does not say “endure persecution” but “rejoice and be exceeding glad.” Why? Because persecution connects you to the prophets and secures your reward in heaven. This passage teaches that persecution is not a detour from the Christian life; it is part of the road.

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The Unpleasant Reality of Persecution

In today’s devotional, Pastor E.A. Adeboye (Daddy Adeboye) continues his series on longevity and finishing well. He has covered hiding, fighting, running, refueling, rest, and avoiding the devil’s traps. Today he addresses an unavoidable reality: persecution. Every believer who chooses to live a godly life will face it. And how you respond to it determines whether you finish your race or fall by the wayside.

The Temptation to Compromise

The devotional acknowledges that persecution is naturally unpleasant. Whether it is severe—imprisonment, beatings, death—or mild—ridicule, exclusion, slander—persecution hurts. No one enjoys being mocked, rejected, or attacked for their faith.

This is why some believers compromise. To escape the discomfort, they water down their message, hide their convictions, or conform to the world. They stop speaking up. They stop standing out. They blend in to avoid the heat.

But the devotional warns: “Your witness for Christ will not be effective if you compromise your faith at every hint of persecution.”

A compromised Christian is a silent Christian. And a silent Christian is an ineffective witness. When you shrink back from persecution, you also shrink back from the opportunity to show the world what faith looks like under fire.

The Apostles: Persecution That Led to Power

The devotional points to the apostles as examples of what happens when believers do not compromise. In Acts 4, Peter and John were arrested, thrown in jail, and threatened severely not to preach in the name of Jesus anymore.

What was the result? Not silence, but boldness. Not retreat, but advance.

• They experienced God’s power in a greater dimension.
• They received more boldness to speak God’s word.
• The place where they prayed was shaken.
• Many who heard the word believed.

Persecution did not stop them—it propelled them.

Later, when Stephen was martyred, the church was scattered. The enemy intended this scattering to destroy the church. But Acts 8:4 says, “They that were scattered abroad went every where preaching the word.” What the devil meant for evil, God used for good. The persecution that was supposed to silence the church actually spread the gospel.

You Are Not Alone in Persecution

One of the most comforting truths in the devotional is this: when you are persecuted for your faith, you are not alone.

When Jesus appeared to Saul on the road to Damascus, He did not say, “Why are you persecuting My followers?” He said, “Why persecutest thou me?” (Acts 9:4).

This means: When someone persecutes you for being a Christian, they are persecuting Jesus Himself. He identifies with His people so completely that your suffering is His suffering. He is not watching from a distance—He is in the fire with you.

• Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego were thrown into the furnace, and a fourth Person walked with them.
• Daniel was thrown into the lion’s den, and God shut the lions’ mouths.
• Paul and Silas were thrown into prison, and God sent an earthquake.

Jesus is fully with you in your tribulations.

The Blessing Hidden in Persecution

The memory verse from Matthew 5 says something counterintuitive: “Blessed are they which are persecuted for righteousness’ sake.”

How can persecution be a blessing?

1. It Confirms You Are Living Right
If the world loves you, it means you are like the world. Jesus said, “If ye were of the world, the world would love his own: but because ye are not of the world, but I have chosen you out of the world, therefore the world hateth you” (John 15:19). Persecution is not a sign that something is wrong—it is a sign that something is right.

2. It Connects You to the Prophets
Jesus said, “For so persecuted they the prophets which were before you.” When you are persecuted, you join a long line of faithful witnesses—Isaiah, Jeremiah, Daniel, John the Baptist, Stephen, Paul. You are in good company.

3. It Secures Your Reward in Heaven
“Great is your reward in heaven.” The suffering is temporary. The reward is eternal. The heaviness lasts for a night, but joy comes in the morning.

4. It Produces Character and Hope
Romans 5:3-5 says that tribulation produces patience, patience produces experience, and experience produces hope. Persecution is not wasted—it is refining.

How to Respond to Persecution

If you are facing persecution for your faith, here is how to respond:

1. Do Not Compromise
The most important response is to refuse to compromise. Do not water down your message. Do not hide your convictions. Do not blend in to avoid the heat. Your witness is most powerful when it costs you something.

2. Rejoice
Jesus commanded: “Rejoice, and be exceeding glad.” This is not natural. It is supernatural. You rejoice not because persecution feels good, but because you know what it produces. You rejoice because your reward is in heaven. You rejoice because you are counted worthy to suffer for His name.

3. Draw Strength from God’s Promises
Hebrews 13:5: “I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee.”
Psalm 46:1: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.”
Matthew 28:20: “Lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world.”

Hold these promises close. They are your anchor in the storm.

4. Keep Your Focus on Jesus
When you focus on the persecution, you sink. When you focus on Jesus, you walk on water. Keep your eyes on Him. He endured the cross, despised the shame, and is seated at the right hand of God. Follow His example.

5. See Persecution as an Opportunity
Every time the apostles were persecuted, they were presented with a greater opportunity to witness. Your persecution may open doors you could not open otherwise. Ask God to show you the opportunity hidden inside the opposition.

The Grace That Carries You

The devotional promises: “God’s grace is sufficient to keep you from turning away from Him. His strength will carry you through every difficult moment when you keep your focus on Him.”

You do not need to be strong enough for persecution. You need to be connected enough to the One who is strong enough. His grace is sufficient. His strength is made perfect in your weakness.

Conclusion: Do Not Give Up

Persecution is not pleasant. But it is part of the path for every believer who chooses to live godly lives. Do not give up. Do not compromise. Do not shrink back.

• Your witness is most powerful when it costs you something.
• Your faithfulness under fire inspires others.
• Your reward in heaven is great.
• Your Savior is with you in the fire.

He will never leave you. He will never forsake you. He is your ever-present help in trouble. And He will be with you always, even to the end of the world.

Pray this:
“Father, I thank You that persecution is not a surprise to You. You promised that all who live godly lives will suffer persecution. Give me the grace not to compromise when the heat comes. Let my witness be bold, not silent. Let my faith shine brightest under pressure. I rejoice that my reward is in heaven. I draw strength from Your promise that You are with me always. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Action Steps:

• Identify any area where you have compromised: Have you softened your message, hidden your convictions, or blended in to avoid persecution? Confess it and recommit to boldness.
• Encourage a persecuted believer: Find someone who is suffering for their faith—whether in another country or across the street—and send them a message of encouragement.
• Memorize Matthew 5:10-12: Write it down and keep it with you. Let it remind you that persecution is not a curse—it is a blessing.
• Pray for boldness: This week, ask God specifically for boldness to speak His word despite opposition.
• Rejoice in advance: Thank God for the opportunity to suffer for His name—before it comes. Your attitude of gratitude will disarm the enemy.

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Read RCCG Open Heavens Devotional for Tomorrow

Download Open Heavens 11 May 2026 Devotional PDF

The Open Heavens 10 May 2026 devotional for today is BLESSINGS WITHOUT SORROW.

This is a daily devotion written by Pastor E. A. Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

• Read: RCCG Open Heavens 9 May 2026 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVENS 10 MAY 2026 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: BLESSINGS WITHOUT SORROW

MEMORISE

The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.
Proverbs 10:22

READ: 1 Peter 5:8-9, John 10:10

8 Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:
9 Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

10 The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVENS 10 MAY 2026 TODAY MESSAGE

Many people want to get rich at all costs, and as such, the devil lures them into all sorts of sinful acts. Some of them eventually get the riches they want, but such riches always come with many sorrows. Only the blessing of God comes without sorrow, as we see in today’s memory verse.

The devil never desires anything good for anybody. He may pretend as if he wants the best for a fellow, but he is a great deceiver and is incapable of giving anyone anything good. Instead, he is interested in stealing whatever God has given His children.

John 10:10 reveals his true intentions when dealing with anyone: to steal, kill, and destroy. If you yield to the devil’s temptation to engage in sin, you are giving him permission to steal from you, kill you, and destroy you.

Years ago, a female student of mine while I was a lecturer said to me, “Daddy, I have found a young man who wants to marry me.” I congratulated her but she said, “No! That is where the problem is.” She then proceeded to tell me that her father had informed her that he had offered her to a marine spirit, and if she ever got married, she would die.

Her father also told her that if she didn’t die, whoever she got married to would die on the wedding day. She then told me, “Now, this young man has approached me for marriage, and I have a feeling that it is the will of God that I get married to him. However, I don’t want to say ‘yes’ to him because I don’t want the marine spirit to kill him.

What should I do?” | laughed and told her, “I know the Father of all spirits.” I then prayed a simple prayer in the name of Jesus and told her to go ahead and accept the young man’s proposal.

Two years later, I was in a church in Yaba, Lagos, when this young lady walked up to me. She was carrying a baby in her hand, and she said, “Sir, do you remember me?” I replied, “Of course!” I asked her about her husband, and she pointed to a handsome young man. If that lady had not run to Jesus, she would have lived under the bondage of losing every man who showed interest in her.

Beloved, satan’s “blessings’ always come with truckloads of sorrow. However, when God blesses you, He gives you a sorrow-free package.

KEY POINT

Only the blessings of God comes in sorrow-free packages.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

2 Chronicles 8-11

Open Heavens HYMN 30: WHEN WE WALK WITH THE LORD

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL 10 MAY 2026 COMMENTARY

Here is the detailed commentary and interpretation for today’s devotional.

MEMORISE: Proverbs 10:22

“The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.”

This verse draws a sharp contrast between two kinds of wealth. There is wealth that comes from the world, from the devil, or from sinful schemes—and that wealth always carries hidden sorrow. But the blessing of the LORD is different. It makes rich, yes, but it comes with no sorrow attached. No regret, no bondage, no hidden price tag. God’s blessing is pure, clean, and sorrow-free.

BIBLE READING: 1 Peter 5:8-9, John 10:10

“Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: whom resist stedfast in the faith.” (1 Peter 5:8-9)

“The thief cometh not, but for to steal, and to kill, and to destroy: I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” (John 10:10)

These two passages together reveal the devil’s true nature and Jesus’ contrasting mission. The devil has three stated goals: to steal, to kill, and to destroy. He does not come to bless, to help, or to give. He comes to take. Jesus, by contrast, comes to give life—abundant life. Every “gift” from the devil is a trap; every blessing from God is life-giving.

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The Sorrow That Comes with Satan’s Blessings

In today’s devotional, Pastor E.A. Adeboye (Daddy Adeboye) continues his series on longevity and finishing well. He has covered hiding, fighting, running, spiritual refueling, physical refueling through eating, and physical refueling through rest. Today he addresses a different kind of trap: the lure of getting rich at all costs. The devil offers wealth, but his “blessings” always come with sorrow. Only God’s blessing is sorrow-free.

The Devil’s True Intentions

The devotional begins with a stark reminder of who the devil is. He is not a harmless trickster or a mischievous tempter. John 10:10 reveals his threefold agenda:

• To steal — take what rightfully belongs to you
• To kill — end your life, your destiny, your purpose
• To destroy — ruin everything God is building in you

The devil never desires anything good for anyone. He may pretend to want the best for you. He may offer you riches, power, or success. But his gifts are poisoned. His blessings come with hidden terms and conditions that will ultimately destroy you.

“If you yield to the devil’s temptation to engage in sin, you are giving him permission to steal from you, kill you, and destroy you.”

The Daughter Offered to a Marine Spirit

The devotional shares a powerful testimony that illustrates this truth. Years ago, a female student of Daddy Adeboye came to him with a terrible dilemma. She had found a young man who wanted to marry her—and she believed it was God’s will. But her father had revealed a dark secret.

Her father had offered her to a marine spirit (a water spirit, a demonic entity). He told her that if she ever got married, she would die. And if she didn’t die, whoever she married would die on the wedding day.

This young woman was trapped. She wanted to obey God and marry this man, but she did not want to be responsible for his death. She came to Daddy Adeboye asking, “What should I do?”

Daddy Adeboye’s response was bold: “I know the Father of all spirits.”

He prayed a simple prayer in the name of Jesus and told her to accept the young man’s proposal. Two years later, he saw her in a church in Yaba, Lagos. She was carrying a baby. Her handsome husband stood beside her. The marine spirit’s claim had been broken by the power of the Almighty.

If that lady had not run to Jesus, she would have lived under the bondage of losing every man who showed interest in her. Her father’s bargain with the devil would have stolen her future, killed her husband, and destroyed her destiny.

How the Devil Lures People

The devotional explains that many people want to get rich at all costs. This desperation makes them vulnerable to the devil’s lures. He offers them:

• Fast money through fraud or corruption
• Success through ritual sacrifices
• Wealth through agreements with dark spirits

Some of them get the riches they want. They buy cars, build houses, and live lavishly. But such riches always come with many sorrows.

• The money is there, but peace is gone.
• The house is there, but the marriage is broken.
• The car is there, but the children are lost.
• The business is there, but the health is destroyed.

This is the devil’s pattern. He gives you what you want, but he makes sure you cannot enjoy it. His blessings are always poisoned.

The Sorrow-Free Blessing of God

The memory verse promises something different: “The blessing of the LORD, it maketh rich, and he addeth no sorrow with it.”

What does sorrow-free blessing look like?

• You prosper, but your family remains intact.
• You rise, but your health stays strong.
• You gain influence, but your character remains pure.
• You receive wealth, but your peace is undisturbed.

God does not need to cheat you. He does not need to hide a curse inside a blessing. When He gives, He gives fully, freely, and cleanly. No hidden fees. No fine print. No demonic attachments.

Why People Choose the Devil’s Blessings

If the devil’s blessings are so destructive, why do people choose them?

1. Impatience
God’s blessing often requires waiting. The devil offers instant results. People who cannot wait fall for the shortcut.

2. Desperation
When you are desperate, you stop being discerning. The devil knows this and offers his “help” just when you are most vulnerable.

3. Ignorance
Some people do not know that the devil’s gifts come with sorrow. They see the wealth and do not see the hidden chains.

4. Family Tradition
Like the young woman’s father, some families have made covenants with dark spirits for generations. Children inherit these covenants and assume there is no way out.

How to Receive God’s Sorrow-Free Blessing

1. Refuse the Devil’s Shortcuts
Do not take money that comes with strings attached. Do not accept success that requires compromise. If an opportunity requires you to sin, it is not from God—no matter how good it looks.

2. Break Every Dark Covenant
If you suspect that you or your family has made agreements with dark spirits, renounce them in Jesus’ name. The young woman needed deliverance from her father’s vow. You may need the same. Pray: “I break every covenant made on my behalf with any dark spirit. I renounce it in Jesus’ name.”

3. Run to Jesus
The young woman ran to Daddy Adeboye, who pointed her to Jesus. You must run to the same Savior. He is the Father of all spirits—including the ones that claim ownership over you. His authority is higher than any marine spirit, any family curse, any demonic agreement.

4. Trust God’s Timing
God’s blessing may take longer, but it comes without sorrow. Wait for His timing. Do not grab at the devil’s counterfeits.

5. Test Every Blessing
Before you receive any significant gain, ask: Did this come through righteous means? Is my conscience clear? Can I thank God for this without shame? If the answer is no, reject it.

The Testimony of Deliverance

The young woman in the testimony is a living proof that God’s power breaks the devil’s hold. Her father had sold her to a marine spirit. That spirit claimed the right to kill any husband who married her.

But Jesus is the Father of all spirits. When He spoke, the marine spirit had to obey. The marriage happened. The husband lived. The baby was born. The sorrow that should have come was cancelled.

This same deliverance is available to you.

Conclusion: Choose the Sorrow-Free Blessing

The devil is a deceiver. His “blessings” are traps. His riches come with sorrow, bondage, and ultimately destruction.

But God’s blessing is different. It makes rich without sorrow. It prospers without poison. It lifts without chains.

Do not be desperate enough to accept the devil’s counterfeits. Do not be impatient enough to grab at his shortcuts. Wait on the Lord. Trust His timing. Receive His sorrow-free blessing.

Pray this:
“Father, I renounce every temptation to get rich at all costs. I reject the devil’s counterfeits. I break every covenant made on my behalf with any dark spirit—marine spirits, family spirits, any demonic power. I run to Jesus, the Father of all spirits. Set me free from every inherited bondage. Give me Your sorrow-free blessing. Let my wealth come without chains and my success come without shame. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Action Steps:

• Examine your wealth: Has any of your income or success come through questionable means? If so, renounce it and make restitution where possible.
• Break family covenants: If you suspect your family has made agreements with dark spirits, pray specifically to break them. You may want to seek deliverance ministry.
• Reject shortcuts: This week, if an opportunity arises that requires compromise, refuse it—even if it costs you money or advancement.
• Wait on God’s timing: Identify one area where you have been impatient for blessing. Commit to waiting on God’s timing rather than grabbing the devil’s counterfeit.
• Thank God for sorrow-free blessings: Make a list of the ways God has blessed you without hidden sorrow. Give Him thanks for each one.

• Facebook: RCCG Live

Read RCCG Open Heavens Devotional for Tomorrow

Download Open Heavens 10 May 2026 Devotional PDF

The Open Heavens 9 May 2026 devotional for today is SECRETS TO LONGEVITY VI.

This is a daily devotion written by Pastor E. A. Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

• Read: RCCG Open Heavens 8 May 2026 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVENS 9 MAY 2026 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: SECRETS TO LONGEVITY VI

MEMORISE

So the people rested on the seventh day.
Exodus 16:30

READ: Genesis 2:1-3

Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them.
2 And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made.
3 And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVENS 9 MAY 2026 TODAY MESSAGE

When I became the General Overseer of RCCG, I was so concerned about the church’s growth that I was always fasting, praying, and preaching to the extent that I gave myself no rest or holidays.

I did that for years, until suddenly, I discovered that while preaching, I would lose my voice completely after about 15 minutes. Even though I followed all kinds of recommendations to combat the issue, one of which was drinking tea with honey, it persisted.

One day, an elderly woman who had noticed what was going on approached me and said, “Sir, you are suffering from Teacher’s disease.” I told her that I had never heard of that, and she replied, “You keep teaching, and you aren’t resting your voice. Now, it is in rebellion.” I asked her how to cure it, and she responded, “Rest your voice for 15 days.” “How will I do that?” I asked, and she said, “You can still teach without losing your voice for 15 minutes; when you can’t last 5 minutes, you will do what l’ve said.”

Therefore, for the first time after becoming General Overseer, I went on holiday. I travelled to Germany and stayed in a house that had a sauna. My host told me that it warms the body from the inside out, and when I enter, I must exit after 15 minutes at most because I would have been sweating profusely. I went into the sauna, and 5 minutes later, there was no sweat. After 10 minutes, there was still no sweat. It wasn’t until after 15 minutes that I noticed a little sweat. I was in that sauna for 45 minutes before any real sweat came out.

I had stressed my body so much that it wasn’t functioning as it should anymore. Since then, I discovered that if I am to last long in the assignment that God has given to me, I must rest every now and then.

Beloved, if you want to last long, you must always take time to rest. Today’s Bible reading tells us that God rested after He finished the work of creation, and that is a pattern that every Christian must emulate. It is very dangerous to keep working hard and not take time to rest because exhaustion can kill.

Don’t sabotage yourself when it comes to fulfilling your God-given purpose on the earth. Take regular scheduled rests, and you will keep yourself in optimal physical condition, so you will be able to keep running your race.

KEY POINT

Knowing when to rest and relax your body is key to longevity.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

2 Chronicles 5-7

Open Heavens HYMN 33: GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH!

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL 9 MAY 2026 COMMENTARY

Here is the detailed commentary and interpretation for today’s devotional.

MEMORISE: Exodus 16:30

“So the people rested on the seventh day.”

This verse records Israel’s first formal observance of the Sabbath rest. After centuries of slavery in Egypt where they had no control over their work schedule, God taught His freed people a new rhythm: six days of work, one day of rest. The rest was not optional—it was commanded. And it was not laziness—it was trust. By resting, Israel declared that God was their provider, not their own endless labor.

BIBLE READING: Genesis 2:1-3

“Thus the heavens and the earth were finished, and all the host of them. And on the seventh day God ended his work which he had made; and he rested on the seventh day from all his work which he had made. And God blessed the seventh day, and sanctified it: because that in it he had rested from all his work which God created and made.”

This passage records the very first Sabbath. God—the Almighty, the One who never grows weary—chose to rest. He did not need rest for Himself. He rested as a pattern for humanity. He then blessed and sanctified (set apart) the seventh day. Rest is not a suggestion; it is built into the fabric of creation. To ignore rest is to ignore the Creator’s design.

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The Secret of Taking Regular Rest

In today’s devotional, Pastor E.A. Adeboye (Daddy Adeboye) continues his series on longevity and finishing well. He has covered hiding, fighting, running, spiritual refueling, and physical refueling through eating. Today he addresses a specific form of physical refueling: taking regular rest. His personal testimony is a powerful warning to every believer who thinks that non-stop work is a sign of faithfulness.

Daddy Adeboye’s Personal Wake-Up Call

The devotional opens with a candid confession. When Daddy Adeboye became General Overseer of RCCG, he was consumed with concern for the church’s growth. He fasted constantly, prayed incessantly, and preached tirelessly. He gave himself no rest and took no holidays.

He did this for years. Then something alarming happened.

While preaching, he would lose his voice completely after about 15 minutes. He tried every remedy—tea with honey, various recommendations—but the problem persisted.

Then an elderly woman approached him with a diagnosis: “Sir, you are suffering from Teacher’s disease.”

She explained: “You keep teaching, and you aren’t resting your voice. Now, it is in rebellion.”

Her prescription was simple but difficult: rest his voice for 15 days. Daddy Adeboye protested. How could he stop teaching? She warned him that if he ignored the problem, he would soon lose his voice after 5 minutes, and then he would have no choice.

For the first time since becoming General Overseer, he went on holiday—to Germany.

The Sauna That Revealed the Damage

While in Germany, his host took him to a sauna. The host explained that the sauna warms the body from the inside out and that he should exit after 15 minutes because he would be sweating profusely.

But after 5 minutes, no sweat. After 10 minutes, still no sweat. After 15 minutes, only a little sweat.

It took 45 minutes in the sauna before real sweat came out.

Daddy Adeboye’s realization was devastating: “I had stressed my body so much that it wasn’t functioning as it should anymore.”

His body had been pushed beyond its limits for so long that it had stopped responding normally. The natural mechanisms God built into the body—sweating to cool down, rest to recover—had been suppressed by chronic overwork.

This was a wake-up call. He discovered that if he was going to last long in the assignment God had given him, he must rest every now and then.

The Divine Pattern of Rest

The Bible reading takes us back to the very beginning. After six days of creation, God rested on the seventh day. The Almighty God—who cannot tire, who needs no sleep, who holds the universe in His hands—stopped working and rested.

Why? Not because He was tired. But to establish a pattern for humanity.

• God worked, then rested.
• God blessed the rest day.
• God sanctified (set apart) the rest day.

This means: Rest is not a suggestion. It is not optional. It is part of the created order, like gravity or the seasons. When you ignore rest, you are not being more spiritual—you are being more foolish. You are violating the rhythm God built into your body.

The Danger of Exhaustion

The devotional warns plainly: “It is very dangerous to keep working hard and not take time to rest because exhaustion can kill.”

Exhaustion does not just make you tired—it makes you vulnerable:

• Your judgment fails: Exhausted people make decisions they would never make when rested.
• Your immunity drops: Chronic fatigue leads to sickness.
• Your emotions become unstable: Small problems feel like catastrophes.
• Your relationships suffer: Exhausted people are irritable, short-tempered, and withdrawn.
• Your spiritual sensitivity dulls: You cannot hear God clearly when your body is screaming for rest.

Exhaustion can kill. It can kill your ministry, your marriage, your health, and eventually you.

Why Rest Is Hard for Committed Believers

Many committed Christians struggle with rest because they believe:

• “God’s work is urgent.” Yes, but God is not desperate. He created rest. He commands rest. He honors rest.
• “If I don’t do it, no one will.” That is pride disguised as responsibility. If God’s work truly depends on you alone, then God is not God.
• “I’ll rest when the work is done.” The work is never done. There will always be another sermon, another meeting, another need.
• “Rest is laziness.” No, rest is obedience. Laziness is avoiding work. Rest is stopping work to honor God’s design.

How to Practice Regular Rest

1. Schedule Rest Like You Schedule Work
Daddy Adeboye had to learn to take holidays. You may need to schedule them into your calendar. Not “I’ll rest when I have time”—because you never will. Put rest on your calendar and protect it.

2. Observe a Weekly Sabbath
God blessed and sanctified the seventh day. Find one day each week to stop your normal work. Not to catch up on chores, not to answer emails, but to rest, worship, and be refreshed.

3. Rest Before You Are Exhausted
Daddy Adeboye waited until his voice was rebelling before he rested. Do not wait for your body to break down. Rest while you still have strength. Prevention is better than cure.

4. Rest Your Voice, Your Mind, and Your Body
Different types of rest are needed:

• Physical rest: Sleep, sitting, lying down
• Mental rest: Stop planning, calculating, and worrying
• Emotional rest: Step away from draining relationships and situations
• Spiritual rest: Cease striving and trust God to work

5. Take Short Breaks During the Day
Not all rest requires a holiday. Take 10-15 minutes several times a day to step away, breathe, and reset. Even a short pause can prevent burnout.

What Happens When You Rest

When you honor God’s design for rest:

• Your body recovers: Muscles repair, hormones balance, energy returns.
• Your mind clears: Creativity flows, problems find solutions, perspective returns.
• Your emotions stabilize: Patience increases, irritability decreases.
• Your spirit reconnects: You hear God more clearly, worship more deeply, love more freely.
• You last longer: Your race is a marathon, not a sprint. Rest ensures you finish.

The Example of Jesus

Jesus, the Son of God, with a three-year ministry and the weight of the world’s salvation on His shoulders, still rested. He slept in the boat during a storm. He withdrew to lonely places to pray. He took time away from the crowds.

If Jesus needed rest, you need rest.

Conclusion: Rest Is Not Optional

Daddy Adeboye learned the hard way. His voice rebelled. His body stopped sweating normally. He had stressed himself to the point of dysfunction.

Do not wait for your body to scream before you listen.

God rested on the seventh day. He blessed that day and set it apart. That pattern is for you. It is not weakness. It is wisdom. It is not laziness. It is obedience.

Take regular scheduled rests. Keep yourself in optimal physical condition. And you will be able to keep running your race—all the way to the finish line.

Pray this:
“Father, forgive me for treating rest as optional. I have pushed past my limits, ignored the patterns You built into creation, and acted as if Your work depended entirely on me. Teach me to rest. Help me to schedule rest like I schedule work. Give me the humility to stop when I need to stop and to trust that You will keep working even when I am resting. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Action Steps:

• Schedule a holiday: If you have not taken time off in months, put it on the calendar now.
• Observe a weekly rest day: Choose one day this week to stop normal work. No emails, no errands, no catching up. Just rest and worship.
• Take daily pauses: Set a timer for every 90 minutes to take a 5-10 minute break. Step away from your desk, your phone, your screen.
• Listen to your body: Are you experiencing chronic fatigue, voice loss, headaches, or irritability? These may be signs your body is rebelling. Listen before it gets worse.
• Trust God with the work: Rest is an act of faith. It says, “God, You are in control even when I am not working.” Practice that faith this week.

• Facebook: RCCG Live

Read RCCG Open Heavens Devotional for Tomorrow

Download Open Heavens 9 May 2026 Devotional PDF

The Open Heavens 8 May 2026 devotional for today is SECRETS TO LONGEVITY V.

This is a daily devotion written by Pastor E. A. Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

• Read: RCCG Open Heavens 7 May 2026 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVENS 8 MAY 2026 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: SECRETS TO LONGEVITY V

MEMORISE

To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear.
Isaiah 28:12

READ: 1 Kings 19:4-8

4 But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a juniper tree: and he requested for himself that he might die; and said, It is enough; now, O Lord, take away my life; for I am not better than my fathers.
5 And as he lay and slept under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel touched him, and said unto him, Arise and eat.
6 And he looked, and, behold, there was a cake baken on the coals, and a cruse of water at his head. And he did eat and drink, and laid him down again.
7 And the angel of the Lord came again the second time, and touched him, and said, Arise and eat; because the journey is too great for thee.
8 And he arose, and did eat and drink, and went in the strength of that meat forty days and forty nights unto Horeb the mount of God.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVENS 8 MAY 2026 TODAY MESSAGE

Today, as I continue to discuss the secrets to longevity, I will highlight the importance of recharging your physical batteries.

Your physical batteries must not be neglected, as you need them to succeed in your spiritual assignments. For example, Moses had a spiritual assignment to lead the Israelites out of captivity and take them into the Promised Land. While this assignment was primarily spiritual, it also had a lot of physical demands on him, and he would have failed woefully if he hadn’t heeded Jethro’s counsel, which saved him from wearing himself out before his time. He was overworking himself and ignoring the need to refuel his physical batteries by taking rests when required (Exodus 18:13-26).

Tomorrow, I will discuss more about taking rests.

Another way to refuel your physical batteries so you can endure and succeed in the path that God has set before you is by eating right and at the right time.

In 1 Kings 18-19, Elijah had used his spiritual batteries to call down fire from heaven, call down rain, and outrun the king’s chariot. All those exploits must have depleted both his physical and spiritual batteries because when he heard that Jezebel was after his life, he took to his heels. He ran for three days and nights, then asked God to take his life. He fell asleep right where he made the request, and thankfully, God sent an angel to wake him and feed him twice, so he could refuel and successfully complete the long journey he had ahead of him.

I wonder what would have happened if the angel hadn’t woken Elijah, and Jezebel had caught up with him while he was exhausted and asleep.

Many people with glorious destinies have found themselves sleeping until Jezebel caught up with them and killed them because they had neglected their bodies, and it failed them at a critical time.

By Jezebel in this context, I am referring to sin. For instance, if a married man fasts so much that he neglects his sexual needs and does not get intimate with his wife for a long time, his body could revolt due to suppressed sexual desires when he is alone on a trip. This could lead him to commit a sexual sin that can put an abrupt end to his spiritual journey.

Beloved, you must learn to relax your body and cater to its needs according to God’s will at different times, so you can enjoy longevity and run your race successfully.

KEY POINT

You must not neglect your body if you want to remain on course and fulfil God’s will for your life.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

2 Chronicles 1-4

Open Heavens HYMN 33: GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH!

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL 8 MAY 2026 COMMENTARY

Here is the detailed commentary and interpretation for today’s devotional.

MEMORISE: Isaiah 28:12

“To whom he said, This is the rest wherewith ye may cause the weary to rest; and this is the refreshing: yet they would not hear.”

This verse reveals God’s heart for human limitation. He offers rest for the weary and refreshing for the exhausted. But the tragedy is that His people refused to listen. They pushed past their limits, ignored their need for rest, and paid the price. God does not see rest as weakness—He prescribes it as medicine. The refusal to rest is not strength; it is disobedience.

BIBLE READING: 1 Kings 19:4-8

This passage records one of the most vulnerable moments in Elijah’s life. After the triumph on Mount Carmel—fire from heaven, the defeat of the prophets of Baal, the end of the drought, and outrunning Ahab’s chariot—Elijah received a death threat from Jezebel. The mighty prophet ran for his life. After a day’s journey into the wilderness, he sat under a juniper tree and asked God to take his life. Exhausted and depressed, he fell asleep. An angel touched him twice, providing freshly baked bread and water. Elijah ate, slept again, ate again, and was strengthened for a forty-day journey to Mount Horeb. This passage demonstrates that spiritual giants also have physical limits, and God honors those limits by providing rest and nourishment.

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The Secret of Recharging Your Physical Batteries

In today’s devotional, Pastor E.A. Adeboye (Daddy Adeboye) continues his series on longevity and finishing well. He has covered hiding, fighting, running, and spiritual refueling. Today he addresses an often-neglected area: recharging your physical batteries. You cannot complete your spiritual assignment if your body fails you. Many with glorious destinies have crashed because they neglected their physical needs.

Moses: Overworking Himself to the Point of Collapse

The devotional points to Moses as a cautionary example. Moses had a massive spiritual assignment—leading Israel out of Egypt and through the wilderness. But the assignment also carried massive physical demands. He was judging the people from morning until evening, with lines forming around him all day long.

He was overworking himself and ignoring the need to refuel.

His father-in-law Jethro observed this and gave a crucial warning: “The thing that thou doest is not good. Thou wilt surely wear away, both thou, and this people that is with thee: for this thing is too heavy for thee; thou art not able to perform it thyself alone” (Exodus 18:17-18).

Jethro’s counsel was not spiritual—it was practical. He told Moses to delegate and to rest. Moses listened, and he was saved from wearing himself out before his time.

The devotional’s point is clear: You can have a divine assignment and still destroy yourself through neglect of your physical limits. God did not design you to work 24/7. Night follows day for a reason.

Elijah: Exhausted and Ready to Die

The Bible reading gives us an even more dramatic example. Elijah had just experienced the highest spiritual high of his life. Fire fell from heaven. The people cried, “The LORD, He is God!” He outran a chariot. He was at the peak of prophetic power.

Then Jezebel sent a death threat, and Elijah ran. He ran for a day into the wilderness, sat under a juniper tree, and prayed to die.

How did the mighty prophet get here? The devotional explains: “All those exploits must have depleted both his physical and spiritual batteries.”

Elijah had used everything he had. His body was empty. His spirit was drained. He was not a coward—he was exhausted. And exhaustion distorts your perception. When you are physically depleted, every problem looks like the end of the world.

God did not rebuke Elijah. He did not call him a failure. He sent an angel with freshly baked bread and water. He let Elijah sleep. Then He fed him again. Only after refueling did Elijah have the strength for the forty-day journey to Mount Horeb.

The angel’s intervention teaches us: God cares about your physical needs. He will provide rest and nourishment when you are empty. But you must receive it.

The Danger of Neglecting Your Body

The devotional issues a sobering warning: “Many people with glorious destinies have found themselves sleeping until Jezebel caught up with them and killed them because they had neglected their bodies, and it failed them at a critical time.”

By “Jezebel,” Daddy Adeboye means sin—specifically the sins that come when your body revolts against neglect.

He gives a specific example: A married man fasts so much that he neglects his sexual needs. He does not get intimate with his wife for a long time. His body, created by God with natural desires, becomes suppressed. Then he travels alone, and those suppressed desires erupt at the wrong time with the wrong person. A moment of sin ends a lifetime of ministry.

This is not an excuse for sin. But it is a recognition of reality. God created you as a physical being with physical needs. When you ignore those needs, you create dangerous pressure in your life.

• You need sleep. Without it, your judgment fails.
• You need food. Without it, your strength fails.
• You need rest. Without it, your endurance fails.
• You need intimacy within marriage. Without it, temptation finds an opening.

How to Refuel Your Physical Batteries

1. Take Rest When Required
Exodus 18 is the model. Moses was judging from morning to evening, and Jethro said, “You will wear away.” Delegation is a form of rest. So is stopping work at a reasonable hour. So is taking a day off. God built a Sabbath into creation. He did not need rest, but you do.

2. Eat Right and at the Right Time
The angel did not give Elijah a spiritual vision—he gave him bread and water. Physical nourishment came before spiritual revelation. You cannot pray effectively when your blood sugar is crashing. You cannot minister effectively when your body is starving.

3. Do Not Let Fasting Become Self-Destruction
Fasting is a spiritual discipline, but it is not meant to destroy your body. Jesus fasted 40 days, but He was led by the Spirit. He did not fast 40 days every week. Use wisdom. Prolonged fasting without proper hydration or medical oversight can damage your health and shorten your race.

4. Cater to Your Body’s Legitimate Needs According to God’s Will
The devotional is careful to say “according to God’s will.” This means:

• Sleep is legitimate. Laziness is not.
• Food is legitimate. Gluttony is not.
• Marital intimacy is legitimate. Adultery is not.
• Recreation is legitimate. Worldliness is not.

God gave you a body. He expects you to care for it. When you do, your body serves your assignment. When you don’t, your body becomes a liability.

The Balance Between Spiritual and Physical

Some believers think that spiritual zeal requires neglecting the body. They believe that sleeping less, eating less, and working more is a sign of holiness.

This is not from God. Jesus slept in the boat during a storm. He ate with sinners and tax collectors. He attended a wedding feast. He knew that the physical is not evil—it is created by God.

The same God who gave you a spirit gave you a body. He expects you to steward both.

What Happens When You Refuel

When you properly recharge your physical batteries:

• Your judgment remains clear because exhaustion is not clouding your mind.
• Your resistance to temptation is stronger because you are not running on empty.
• Your endurance increases because you have reserves to draw from.
• You finish your race because your body lasts as long as your assignment.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Your Body Fail You

Moses needed Jethro’s counsel. Elijah needed an angel’s meal. You need to learn the same lesson.

You may have a glorious destiny. You may have a powerful assignment. But if your body fails you at a critical moment, you may not reach your finish line.

Rest is not weakness. Eating is not worldliness. Caring for your body is not selfishness. It is wisdom. It is stewardship. It is obedience to the God who made you physical.

Do not let Jezebel catch you sleeping because you refused to refuel.

Pray this:
“Father, forgive me for neglecting the body You gave me. I have pushed past my limits, ignored my need for rest, and treated my physical needs as unimportant. Help me to find the balance between spiritual zeal and physical wisdom. Teach me to rest when I am weary, to eat when I am hungry, and to care for the temple of Your Spirit. Let my body serve my assignment, not sabotage it. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Action Steps:

• Assess your rest: Are you getting enough sleep? If not, adjust your schedule. Sleep is not optional.
• Assess your eating: Are you skipping meals, eating poorly, or fasting without wisdom? Make changes.
• Assess your workload: Are you delegating like Moses learned to do? Or are you trying to do everything yourself?
• Check your marriage (if married): Are you neglecting intimacy with your spouse? Address it before it becomes a vulnerability.
• Listen to your body: Physical exhaustion, chronic fatigue, or constant illness may be signs that you are not refueling properly. Take them seriously.

• Facebook: RCCG Live

Read RCCG Open Heavens Devotional for Tomorrow

Download Open Heavens 8 May 2026 Devotional PDF

The Open Heavens 7 May 2026 devotional for today is SECRETS TO LONGEVITY IV.

This is a daily devotion written by Pastor E. A. Adeboye, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG).

• Read: RCCG Open Heavens 6 May 2026 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVENS 7 MAY 2026 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: SECRETS TO LONGEVITY IV

MEMORISE

Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled. Blessed are ye that weep now: for ye shall laugh.
Luke 6:21

READ: Psalm 107:8-9

8 Oh that men would praise the Lord for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men!
9 For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVENS 7 MAY 2026 TODAY MESSAGE

As I continue teaching about the secrets to longevity, I want to discuss the importance of refuelling while walking on the path that God has set before you. To enjoy longevity, especially in the kingdom of God, you must refuel and recharge your spiritual batteries regularly.

God designed man in such a way that he would constantly need refuelling. This is why He made sure that every day would be followed by a night so that after working very hard during the day, you can sleep at night and refuel your energy. Likewise, after breakfast in the morning, it is normal to feel hungry after a few hours, especially if you have expended lots of energy. God designed you to eat at varying intervals so you can refuel your energy.

For guns to remain effective, they must be reloaded after they have been fired. Likewise, if a believer wants to remain on the path that God has ordained for him or her, the believer must always recharge his or her spiritual batteries.

For example, a Christian cannot function effectively based on the Scriptures he or she studied last year or the fasting and prayers embarked upon three years ago. Such a Christian will be weak and become easy prey for the devil; hence, there must be constant refuelling to remain spiritually fit.

Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.
Matthew 5:6

God created hunger to remind us that we are running low on fuel, so we can eat to restore our energy. Just as He created physical hunger as a signal to eat and replenish energy, He also created spiritual hunger and thirst as a sign that you must recharge. When you feel hungry for God’s word, excited when it is time for Bible Study, or are always looking forward to praying, you are spiritually healthy.

However, if you don’t attend to that hunger, you may not feel it anymore after a while. If a believer does not feel hungry for spiritual things anymore, it means that he or she is already empty and is on the verge of dying spiritually.

Beloved, nobody lasts long in God’s kingdom without consistent spiritual hunger and refuelling. If you ever get to a point where you don’t feel hungry for God’s word, cry to God to renew your spiritual hunger. May you always hunger and thirst after righteousness so you will be empowered to fulfil God’s purpose for your life, in Jesus’ name.

PRAYER POINT

Father, please renew my spiritual hunger and help me to seek you at all times with all my heart.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

1 Chronicles 27-29

Open Heavens HYMN 8: I Need Thee Every Hour

OPEN HEAVENS DEVOTIONAL 7 MAY 2026 COMMENTARY

MEMORISE: Luke 6:21

“Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled.”

This verse is Jesus’ declaration that spiritual hunger is not a curse—it is a blessing. When you feel a deep craving for God, His word, and His presence, that craving is not a sign of weakness. It is a sign of health. And the promise is certain: you shall be filled. Not maybe, not sometimes—shall be. The hunger itself is the guarantee of the coming satisfaction.

BIBLE READING: Psalm 107:8-9

“Oh that men would praise the LORD for his goodness, and for his wonderful works to the children of men! For he satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.”

This passage is part of a psalm that celebrates God’s deliverance of His people from various troubles. Verse 9 makes a universal promise: God satisfies the longing soul and fills the hungry soul with goodness. Notice the two conditions: longing and hunger. Not the satisfied and complacent—the longing and hungry. God’s filling is reserved for those who feel their emptiness and crave His fullness.

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The Secret of Spiritual Refueling

In today’s devotional, Pastor E.A. Adeboye (Daddy Adeboye) continues his series on longevity and finishing well. He has taught about knowing when to hide, when to fight, and when to run. Today he reveals a fourth secret: the importance of refueling. You cannot last on the path God has set before you if you do not regularly recharge your spiritual batteries. Past experiences, past prayers, past Bible study—these are not enough for today’s battles.

God Designed You to Need Refueling

The devotional begins with a simple but profound observation: God built the need for refueling into the very fabric of human existence.

• Day and night: After working hard during the day, you need sleep at night to recharge.
• Meals: After breakfast, hunger returns after a few hours, reminding you to eat again.
• Weapons: A gun must be reloaded after it has been fired to remain effective.

If this is true for your physical body, how much more true for your spirit?

“A Christian cannot function effectively based on the Scriptures he or she studied last year or the fasting and prayers embarked upon three years ago.”

The devotional states this plainly. Last year’s manna will not sustain you through this year’s wilderness. Three years ago’s prayer session will not win today’s battle. The devil does not attack you based on what you used to know or used to do. He attacks you in the present. And you need present-tense refueling.

Physical Hunger as a Spiritual Lesson

The devotional draws a powerful parallel between physical hunger and spiritual hunger.

Physical hunger:

• Is a signal that your body is running low on fuel
• Reminds you to eat
• If ignored for too long, it eventually fades—but that fading is not a sign of health; it is a sign of starvation

Spiritual hunger:

• Is a signal that your spirit needs refueling
• Reminds you to pray, study, worship, and seek God
• If ignored for too long, it eventually fades—and that fading is a sign of spiritual starvation, not spiritual maturity

“When you feel hungry for God’s word, excited when it is time for Bible Study, or are always looking forward to praying, you are spiritually healthy.”

But if you suppress that hunger, if you neglect your Bible, if you skip prayer, if you find excuses to miss church—eventually, the hunger will stop. And that silence is dangerous.

“If a believer does not feel hungry for spiritual things anymore, it means that he or she is already empty and is on the verge of dying spiritually.”

What Happens When You Don’t Refuel

The devotional warns of the consequences of neglecting spiritual refueling:

1. You Become Weak
A believer who does not regularly feed on God’s word has no spiritual strength. When temptation comes, there is no resistance. When the enemy attacks, there is no defense. The weak believer becomes easy prey.

2. You Become Vulnerable
The devil does not fear an empty, unfed Christian. He knows that a believer without fresh manna has no power. He can push, intimidate, and deceive such a person without resistance.

3. You Drift Off the Path
Longevity requires staying on the path. But when your spiritual fuel runs low, you lose direction. You make decisions based on flesh, not spirit. You wander into territory you never intended to enter.

4. You Eventually Die Spiritually
The devotional does not mince words: ignoring spiritual hunger leads to spiritual death. Not physical death, but a state where your spirit is no longer sensitive to God. You become religious but dead inside.

How to Refuel Regularly

If you want to finish your race and not collapse before the finish line, here is how to practice refueling:

1. Recognize Hunger as a Gift
When you feel hungry for God’s word, do not suppress it. Do not ignore it. Recognize that hunger as the Holy Spirit’s invitation to come and be filled. Blessed are those who hunger—not because hunger is pleasant, but because it leads to filling.

2. Feed Daily
You do not eat once a week physically and expect to survive. Why do you think you can feed on God’s word once a week and thrive spiritually? Daily bread means daily. Set aside time each day for Scripture, prayer, and worship. This is not legalism—it is survival.

3. Cry Out When Hunger Fades
If you have reached a point where you no longer feel hungry for God, do not panic—but do not ignore it. Cry out to God to renew your spiritual hunger. Ask Him to give you back the craving you have lost. He is faithful to restore what the enemy has stolen.

4. Stay in the Company of Hungry Believers
Hunger is contagious. When you surround yourself with believers who are passionate about God’s word, hungry for prayer, and excited about worship, their hunger will awaken yours. Do not isolate yourself from the fire carriers.

5. Refuel Before You Run Empty
Do not wait until you are spiritually starving to seek God. The best time to refuel is when you still have some reserves. Make prayer and Bible study a non-negotiable part of your routine, not just an emergency measure.

The Signs of Spiritual Health

How can you tell if you are spiritually healthy? The devotional gives clear indicators:

• You feel hungry for God’s word
• You get excited when it is time for Bible Study
• You look forward to praying
• You are eager for church services
• You crave worship and fellowship

If these are true of you, rejoice—you are spiritually healthy. If they are not true, do not condemn yourself. Cry out to God for restoration. He is the one who satisfies the longing soul and fills the hungry soul with goodness.

The Promise for the Hungry

The memory verse and the Bible reading both give the same promise: the hungry will be filled.

• Luke 6:21: “Blessed are ye that hunger now: for ye shall be filled.”
• Psalm 107:9: “He satisfieth the longing soul, and filleth the hungry soul with goodness.”

God does not mock your hunger. He does not leave you empty. When you crave Him, He comes. When you seek Him, He is found. When you knock, He opens.

The problem is not that God refuses to fill. The problem is that many believers have lost their hunger. They have become satisfied with yesterday’s manna. They are running on fumes and wondering why they feel weak.

Conclusion: Refuel and Finish Strong

Daddy Adeboye has lasted 84 years on this earth and 53 years as a born-again Christian because he understands the secret of refueling. He does not rely on past experiences. He does not coast on yesterday’s anointing. He continually comes to the Source for fresh supply.

You must do the same. Do not let your spiritual hunger fade. Do not ignore the prompting of the Holy Spirit. When you feel the craving for God’s word, feed it. When you sense the need to pray, pray. When you long for worship, worship.

The race is long, but the finish line is near. Refuel now, and finish strong.

Pray this:
“Father, I thank You that hunger is not a curse but a blessing. Forgive me for the times I have ignored my spiritual hunger or tried to satisfy it with things that are not You. Renew my craving for Your word, Your presence, and Your will. Let me never be satisfied with yesterday’s manna. Fill me fresh today. Satisfy my longing soul. I want to finish my race strong. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”

Action Steps:

• Assess your hunger: Do you genuinely crave God’s word, prayer, and worship? Or have you been going through the motions?
• If hunger is weak, cry out: This week, spend time asking God to restore your spiritual appetite. Do not try to manufacture hunger—ask Him to give it.
• Establish daily feeding: Commit to a daily Bible reading and prayer schedule. Start small if needed, but be consistent.
• Surround yourself with hungry believers: Join a Bible study, prayer group, or fellowship where people are passionate about God. Let their hunger awaken yours.
• Do not coast on the past: Whatever God did for you last year, last month, or last week is wonderful. But seek Him for today. Fresh bread for a fresh day.

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