This is RCCG Open Heaven daily devotional for adults and teens. By Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God.
But thus saith the LORD, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for | will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children. Isaiah 49:25
READ: Isaiah 8:17-18
17 And I will wait upon the Lord, that hideth his face from the house of Jacob, and I will look for him. 18 Behold, I and the children whom the Lord hath given me are for signs and for wonders in Israel from the Lord of hosts, which dwelleth in mount Zion.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 28 MAY 2025 TODAY PRAYERS
1. Thank God for the lives of all the children around you. Thank Him for giving their parents the grace to take care of them.
2. Father, I commit all the children around me into Your care. Please surround them with Your angels and shield them from all dangers.
3. Father, please help all the children around me encounter You so they can have an intimate relationship with You as Samuel did.
4. Father, please bless all the children around me with the spirit of excellence as You did for Daniel, in Jesus’ name.
5. Father, please bless all the children around me with wisdom and the gift of discernment that is beyond their ages so they can make decisions that align with Your will.
6. Father, I commit the health of all the children around me into Your hands; please give them strength in their body, mind, and spirit. Please bless them with divine health, in Jesus’ name.
7. Father, please surround all the children around me with good friends who will influence them to do great things that will bring glory to Your holy name.
8. Father, please give all the children around me the courage and strength to overcome all the challenges that come their way, in Jesus’
9. Father, please help all the children around me to fulfil Your purpose for their lives, in Jesus’ name. 10. Father, please let all the children around me carry Your presence and make them a blessing to everyone around them, in Jesus’ name.
11. Father, please provide godly and healthy children to all the couples around me who are trusting You for the fruit of the womb. Let none be barren around me, in Jesus’ name.
12. Your personal prayer points for the children in your family, community, local assembly, and across the world.
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: Deuteronomy 6:1-7
1 Now these are the commandments, the statutes, and the judgments, which the Lord your God commanded to teach you, that ye might do them in the land whither ye go to possess it: 2 That thou mightest fear the Lord thy God, to keep all his statutes and his commandments, which I command thee, thou, and thy son, and thy son’s son, all the days of thy life; and that thy days may be prolonged. 3 Hear therefore, O Israel, and observe to do it; that it may be well with thee, and that ye may increase mightily, as the Lord God of thy fathers hath promised thee, in the land that floweth with milk and honey. 4 Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is one Lord:
5 And thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thine heart, and with all thy soul, and with all thy might. 6 And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: 7 And thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 27 MAY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE
When Pharaoh said, “I won’t let the Israelites go,” he wasn’t talking about limiting them to a geographical location; he was talking about a different kind of bondage (Exodus 5:2). People who are in the kind of bondage that Pharaoh was referring to have no control over anything, not even their children (Exodus 1:1-22).
If a country’s government says that parents cannot raise their children in the way of the Lord, they should know that there is an evil agenda behind it. That is bondage, and they must not allow themselves to remain under it.
Parents shouldn’t depend on any government to teach their children. Rather, they should take charge and teach them God’s values from His word. If a government insists that parents cannot teach their children what is right, they should move out of that place and go where they will not be under bondage.
Parents should check what their children are being taught in school and ensure they are not influenced to adopt a mindset that is against God’s will. They should also check the games they play and the cartoons they watch because, through them, something evil can be positioned to influence their mindsets.
If you take charge of the children and youths around you, it will be difficult for them to be influenced by an evil agenda. If you are a parent, you must intentionally create time to teach your children God’s ways so that they will know Him for themselves as they grow. Let them spend more time with fellow believers, doing things that will make them grow up into godly adults.
When I moved to Redemption City with my family, my children were schooling far away, and they had to leave the house before 6am on school days so they wouldn’t be late for school.
In order to have a relationship with them, we often ate our dinner in the car together as we drove back home from their school.
As they grew older, I began to take them on evangelistic outreaches. Even when they were in the university, whenever I visited them, l ensured we spent quality time together. We would take walks and discuss the Scriptures: then, l’d guide them with God’s principles.
Parents, take charge of your children; don’t let the enemy win them over. God will hold you accountable for the children He has given you as He did with Eli (1 Samuel 2:27-31). Rise up to the responsibility of nurturing and training them in His ways.
KEY POINT
Don’t expose your children to the enemy by submitting to societal pressures.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Job 1-4
RCCG HYMN 5: BLESSED ASSURANCE
OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 27 MAY 2025 COMMENTARY
Memorise: Proverbs 22:6 (KJV)
This foundational Scripture establishes parental responsibility as primary spiritual educators, with eternal consequences.
Bible Reading: Deuteronomy 6:1-7 (KJV)
Moses’ instruction to Israel reveals God’s blueprint for generational discipleship—teaching children diligently in all life contexts (“when you sit, walk, lie down, rise”).
Key Insights from Today’s Open Heaven Devotional
1. The Pharaoh Principle: Recognizing Spiritual Bondage
Modern Parallels to Exodus 5:2:
Educational Systems: Mandates against biblical values
Media Influence: Anti-Christian ideologies in children’s content
Legal Restrictions: Parental rights erosion in some nations
Threefold Response Commanded:
Vigilance: “Check what children are taught” (1 Thessalonians 5:21)
Action: “Move if necessary” (Matthew 10:23)
Instruction: “Teach diligently” (Deuteronomy 6:7)
2. The Eli Warning: Consequences of Parental Neglect
Case Study (1 Samuel 2:27-31):
Failure: Eli honored sons above God (v.29)
Judgment: Priesthood removed from lineage (v.31)
Contemporary Applications:
Permissiveness = Spiritual endangerment
Delegating discipleship to institutions = Dereliction of duty
3. Biblical Models of Intentional Parenting
Parent
Method
Result
Scripture
Hannah
Dedicated Samuel pre-birth
Prophet/Judge
1 Samuel 1:11
Lois/Eunice
Taught Scriptures early
Timothy’s faith
2 Timothy 1:5
The Author
Car dinners + evangelism
Godly legacy
Devotional Example
4. Practical Discipleship Strategies
Time Investment
Car Dinners: Utilizing commute for connection
University Visits: Intentional spiritual mentoring
Content Control
Monitoring:
School curricula
Entertainment choices
Peer influences
Experiential Learning
Family evangelism (like Pastor Adeboye’s outreaches)
Service projects (James 1:27)
Scriptural Dialogue
“When you walk by the way” discussions (Deuteronomy 6:7)
Answering questions with biblical truth (1 Peter 3:15)
5. The Urgency of Now
Statistical Reality:
70% of church-raised youth leave faith by college
Only 4% of Gen Z hold biblical worldview
Spiritual Warfare Tactics:
Early Indoctrination: LGBTQ+ agendas in elementary schools
Digital Addiction: 8+ hours daily screen time for teens
Parental Passivity: Delegating to Sunday schools alone
Life Applications
For Parents:
Action Plan:
Conduct a “media fast” to audit child’s consumption
Institute weekly family Bible studies
Find mentorship opportunities like family mission trips
For Grandparents/Relatives:
Role: Supplemental discipleship (2 Timothy 1:5)
Method: Storytelling faith legacy (Psalm 78:4)
For Childless Believers:
Ministry: Support struggling parents through:
After-school Bible clubs
Foster care initiatives
Warning vs. Promise
Warning:“Unrestrained children bring shame” (Proverbs 29:15)
Promise:“Godly training yields eternal fruit” (Proverbs 22:6)
Conclusion: A Call to Arms for Christian Parents
The battle for the next generation is won or lost at home
Cultural captivity begins with parental abdication
Your children’s eternal destiny outweighs career success
Prayer Response
“Father, awaken me to my sacred parenting mandate. Give me courage to resist cultural bondage, wisdom to teach diligently, and creativity to redeem time with my children. Let my home become a discipleship center for Christ, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Final Charge “Will your parenting be remembered like Hannah’s faithfulness or Eli’s failure?” The souls of your children are your greatest mission field!
He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich. Proverbs 10:4
READ: Matthew 25:14-30
14 For the kingdom of heaven is as a man travelling into a far country, who called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods. 15 And unto one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one; to every man according to his several ability; and straightway took his journey. 16 Then he that had received the five talents went and traded with the same, and made them other five talents. 17 And likewise he that had received two, he also gained other two.
18 But he that had received one went and digged in the earth, and hid his lord’s money. 19 After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them. 20 And so he that had received five talents came and brought other five talents, saying, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me five talents: behold, I have gained beside them five talents more. 21 His lord said unto him, Well done, thou good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.
22 He also that had received two talents came and said, Lord, thou deliveredst unto me two talents: behold, I have gained two other talents beside them. 23 His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord. 24 Then he which had received the one talent came and said, Lord, I knew thee that thou art an hard man, reaping where thou hast not sown, and gathering where thou hast not strawed: 25 And I was afraid, and went and hid thy talent in the earth: lo, there thou hast that is thine.
26 His lord answered and said unto him, Thou wicked and slothful servant, thou knewest that I reap where I sowed not, and gather where I have not strawed: 27 Thou oughtest therefore to have put my money to the exchangers, and then at my coming I should have received mine own with usury. 28 Take therefore the talent from him, and give it unto him which hath ten talents. 29 For unto every one that hath shall be given, and he shall have abundance: but from him that hath not shall be taken away even that which he hath. 30 And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 26 MAY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE
Proverbs 22:29 says, “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? he shall stand before kings; he shall not stand before mean men.” Diligence means doing the right things to achieve a goal in an excellent, timely, and consistent manner. In Mark 10:46-52, Bartimaeus didn’t only cry once; he kept crying until Jesus answered him. Likewise, the woman with the issue of blood kept pressing forward until she finally got to Jesus (Luke 8:43-48).
If you want to succeed at anything in life, you must be diligent and keep persevering despite obstacles.
I once gave a project to someone at the beginning of a year, and I intended to give him another one as soon as he was done. He was meant to complete the first project within three months; however, by September, he was still struggling to complete it, and there was no way I would have given him another one. God had opened a door of financial blessings to him, but he refused to be diligent.
In today’s Bible reading, Jesus told the parable of three servants who received talents from their master. Two of the servants were diligent, and they doubled what they received. When the master returned, he commended the two diligent servants and rewarded them handsomely. He said to them, “Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.”
In the same parable, you also see the direct consequences of laziness. The servant with one talent hid it and refused to trade with it. The consequence of not being diligent was not only the loss of his talent but also sorrow for the rest of his life. While the diligent servant who started with five ended up with eleven, the lazy servant ended up with sorrow. Jesus said, “For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath” (Matthew 13:12). Anyone who has the virtue of diligence will have more, but those who lack this virtue will lose even what they have.
Beloved, diligence is powerful; it will position you for greatness and more abundance.
Whatever you do according to God’s will, do it diligently with all your strength. Don’t delay, and don’t quit because of limitations or obstacles. I pray that God will reward your diligence
ACTION POINT
Be diligent in all that you do.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Esther 6-10
RCCG HYMN 32: TO THE WORK! TO THE WORK! WE ARE SERVANTS OF GOD
OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 26 MAY 2025 COMMENTARY
Memorise: Proverbs 10:4 (KJV)
This foundational Scripture establishes the direct correlation between diligent effort and divine prosperity.
Bible Reading: Matthew 25:14-30 (KJV)
The Parable of the Talents demonstrates God’s kingdom economics—where faithful stewardship through diligence is rewarded, while slothfulness leads to loss.
Key Insights from Today’s Open Heaven Devotional
1. The Nature of Biblical Diligence
Definition:
Consistent excellence (Colossians 3:23)
Persistent pursuit (Hebrews 12:1)
Timely execution (Ecclesiastes 9:10)
Biblical Models:
Bartimaeus: Persistent crying despite opposition (Mark 10:48)
The Bleeding Woman: Pressing through crowds (Luke 8:44)
Paul: “I have finished my course” (2 Timothy 4:7)
2. The Parable’s Modern Application
Servant
Talent Received
Action
Outcome
Spiritual Principle
First
5 talents
Traded diligently
Gained 5 more
Faithfulness multiplies grace
Second
2 talents
Worked faithfully
Gained 2 more
God rewards proportional effort
Third
1 talent
Buried resources
Lost everything
Unused gifts are reclaimed
3. Consequences of Slothfulness
Missed Opportunities
The undelivered project in the devotional
Esau’s lost birthright (Hebrews 12:16-17)
Divine Withdrawal
“From him shall be taken away” (Matthew 25:28)
The fig tree’s cursed unfruitfulness (Mark 11:14)
Eternal Regret
“Outer darkness” (Matthew 25:30)
The rich fool’s unpreparedness (Luke 12:20)
4. Rewards of Diligence
Promotion Principle
“Ruler over many things” (Matthew 25:21)
Joseph’s rise from prisoner to prime minister
Divine Multiplication
Five loaves fed 5000 (John 6:11-13)
The widow’s oil miracle (2 Kings 4:1-7)
Joyful Celebration
“Enter into the joy of thy lord” (Matthew 25:21)
The prodigal’s homecoming feast (Luke 15:23)
5. Cultivating Diligence
Start Immediately
“Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do” (Ecclesiastes 9:10)
Overcome Obstacles
Nehemiah’s wall-builders worked with tools in one hand, weapons in the other (Nehemiah 4:17)
Maintain Consistency
Daniel’s thrice-daily prayer habit (Daniel 6:10)
Expect Divine Help
“The hand of the diligent maketh rich” (Proverbs 10:4)
Life Applications
For the Procrastinator:
Action: Choose one delayed task—complete it within 24 hours
Prayer: “Lord, break the spirit of slothfulness in my life”
For the Weary Worker:
Encouragement: “Your labor is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58)
Strategy: Implement the Pomodoro Technique (25-minute focused work sessions)
For Leaders:
Evaluation: Are you developing talents or burying them?
Warning:“Slothfulness casts into a deep sleep” (Proverbs 19:15)
Promise:“The soul of the diligent shall be made fat” (Proverbs 13:4)
Conclusion: Your Diligence Determines Your Dominion
God’s system rewards faithful labor—your effort matters
Present obedience unlocks future authority—small beginnings lead to great endings
Eternity will reveal the value of your earthly diligence
Prayer Response
“Father, make me a faithful steward of every talent You’ve given me. Break every spirit of laziness and procrastination. Let my hands work diligently unto Your glory, that I may hear ‘Well done’ at Your coming. In Jesus’ name, Amen.”
Final Charge “Will you be the servant who multiplied talents or the one who buried his gift?” Your harvest awaits your faithful sowing!
Jesus said unto him, If thou canst believe, all things are possible to him that believeth. Mark 9:23
READ: Luke 8:43-48
43 And a woman having an issue of blood twelve years, which had spent all her living upon physicians, neither could be healed of any, 44 Came behind him, and touched the border of his garment: and immediately her issue of blood stanched. 45 And Jesus said, Who touched me? When all denied, Peter and they that were with him said, Master, the multitude throng thee and press thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? 46 And Jesus said, Somebody hath touched me: for I perceive that virtue is gone out of me. 47 And when the woman saw that she was not hid, she came trembling, and falling down before him, she declared unto him before all the people for what cause she had touched him, and how she was healed immediately. 48 And he said unto her, Daughter, be of good comfort: thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 25 MAY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE
I don’t believe in impossibilities. This is why, when I ask someone to do something, and that fellow says it is impossible, I move on immediately and get someone else to do it.
When we were building Redemption City, some people said it was impossible to build a house within seven days, but we did it. They also said the house would collapse soon, but it has been standing for over 40 years. Then, they said, “It’s a bungalow. A storey building will take months to build.” However, we built a storey building in 18 days. They moved on to say that it would soon collapse, but it is still standing over 30 years later. In those cases, what we simply did was find a way to double time.
Workers were working on the construction site day and night. That way, what should have taken two days to accomplish only took one. With the help of the Holy Spirit, we were successful – that is what I call divine engineering. No matter how impossible something looks, if you have the Holy Spirit and are determined to get that thing done, there will always be a way.
Several years ago, I was in a faraway country to minister during a Holy Ghost Service. The venue that was used for the service was a rented property, so for me to have a place to stay and pray before the service, they had to bring a motorhome. As I stepped out of the motorhome to go for my ministration, and while the protocol officers were still trying to clear the way for me, a woman who had been barren for many years ran into the motorhome and sat on the seat I had just gotten up from.
The protocol officers ran after her and took her out of the motorhome immediately, but the woman was not bothered because she believed she had gotten her miracle. She had faith that God would give her a miracle child if she could just sit in the motorhome, and she became pregnant that month!
The woman with the issue of blood in today’s Bible reading was determined enough to disregard all the obstacles that could have prevented her from touching the hem of Jesus’ garment. Sometimes, you will face obstacles in life; however, you must know that with God, nothing is impossible. Trust Him, and don’t give up; He will make a way.
KEY POINT
With God, there will always be a way.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Esther 1-5
RCCG HYMN 58: MY HOPE IS BUILT ON NOTHING ELSE
OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 25 MAY 2025 COMMENTARY
Memorise: Mark 9:23 (KJV)
This verse anchors the devotional’s core message—faith in God dissolves impossibilities.
Bible Reading: Luke 8:43-48 (KJV)
The account of the woman with the issue of blood demonstrates determined faith overcoming impossible obstacles (12 years of incurable sickness, societal restrictions, and physical barriers).
Key Insights from Today’s Open Heaven Devotional
1. The Myth of Impossibility
Biblical Foundation:
Divine Perspective: “With God nothing shall be impossible” (Luke 1:37)
Human Responsibility: “If thou canst believe…” (Mark 9:23)
Modern Manifestations:
Redemption City Construction: Defied engineering timelines
Barren Woman’s Miracle: Unconventional faith produced conception
Healing Testimonies: Medical impossibilities overturned
2. Principles for Overcoming Impossibilities
Divine Engineering (Holy Spirit Solutions)
Redemption City Model:
Night-and-day work = Time multiplication
Supernatural durability (40+ years standing)
Biblical Parallel: Nehemiah’s wall completed in 52 days (Nehemiah 6:15)
Determined Faith (Luke 8:44)
The bleeding woman:
Overcame religious stigma (Leviticus 15:25-27)
Pressed through physical crowd
Risked public exposure
Unconventional Obedience
The Motorhome Miracle: Faith acted beyond religious norms
Joshua’s Marching Orders: Unmilitary strategy at Jericho (Joshua 6:3-5)
3. Obstacles to Divine Possibilities
Four Common Barriers:
Human Reasoning: “It can’t be done” mentality (Matthew 19:26)
Traditional Limitations: “We’ve never done it that way” (Mark 2:22)
Fear of Failure: “What if it doesn’t work?” (Hebrews 11:6)
Social Opposition: Crowds tried to block the bleeding woman
4. Biblical Models of Impossible Breakthroughs
Situation
Human Perspective
Divine Intervention
Key Lesson
Red Sea (Exodus 14)
Certain death
Path through waters
God makes ways where none exist
Lazarus’ death (John 11)
4-days decay
Resurrection power
God’s timing transcends natural laws
Feeding 5000 (John 6)
Insufficient food
Supernatural multiplication
Little becomes much in Christ’s hands
5. Activating Your Miracle
Identify Your “Impossible” Situation
Be specific like the bleeding woman (“If I may touch…”)
Reject Doubtful Voices
Like the woman ignoring naysayers to touch Jesus’ garment
Take Faith-Filled Action
The motorhome woman’s bold seating
Peter stepping on water (Matthew 14:29)
Persist Through Obstacles
The Syrophenician woman’s persistence (Mark 7:24-30)
Life Applications
For the Discouraged:
Action: Write down your “impossible” situation – circle Mark 9:23 over it
Prayer: “Holy Spirit, give me divine engineering strategies”
For the Doubting:
Study: Hebrews 11 – faith hall of fame overcoming impossibilities
Declaration: “My God specializes in things thought impossible!”
For Leaders Facing Challenges:
Encouragement: The Redemption City model proves:
Divine + diligent = Supernatural results
Warning: Don’t let “experts” limit God (1 Corinthians 1:27)
Promise:“All things possible to believers” (Mark 9:23)
Conclusion: Your Impossible is God’s Opportunity
God’s resume includes impossible situations – your case won’t be the exception
Faith actions attract divine reactions – step out like the bleeding woman
The Holy Spirit provides supernatural strategies – seek His engineering
Prayer Response
“Father, I reject every ‘impossible’ label over my situation. Give me the bleeding woman’s determination and Redemption City’s divine engineering wisdom. Let my faith-action trigger miracles that glorify You, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Final Charge “Will you be remembered like the woman who dared touch Jesus’ garment, or among the crowd that stood watching?” Your miracle awaits your faith-filled move!
I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.. Ecclesiastes 9:11
READ: Ecclesiastes 9:10-11
10 Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might; for there is no work, nor device, nor knowledge, nor wisdom, in the grave, whither thou goest. 11 I returned, and saw under the sun, that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, neither yet bread to the wise, nor yet riches to men of understanding, nor yet favour to men of skill; but time and chance happeneth to them all.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 24 MAY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE
The author I referred to in yesterday’s teaching also said, “Life is an opportunity; seize it.” I agree with this saying. Indeed, life is an opportunity, and you must grab it with both hands.
I learnt a poem way back in 1957 which says,
“There is a tide in the affairs of men Which, taken at the flood, leads on to fortune; Omitted, all the voyage of their life Is bound in shallows and in miseries.”
The above poem means that when people take an opportunity and make good use of it, they will attain higher heights; however, if they let it go, it might never be regained. Believe me, God is fair to all. He will, at one time or the other, present you with the opportunities you need to fulfil your destiny. The rest of your life will then depend on how you use the opportunities He has given you.
Today’s memory verse says that time and chance happen to ALL. Everyone will have their time and chance, but some will not seize it.
When some people are struggling, especially the elderly, it is likely that they misused their time and chance when they were younger.
Many people don’t even recognise an opportunity when it comes. This is why you must always be spiritually alert. Imagine what would have become of me if I did not use the opportunity of being in The Redeemed Christian Church of God correctly, or if I had left the church at the slightest provocation. At that time, I wouldn’t have known it, but I would have walked away from my destiny.
People who are easily offended often miss their opportunities because opportunities sometimes come in unattractive packages. For Samuel, his opportunity came in the house of Eli and his wayward sons. If Samuel had gotten offended as a child and told his mother that he wanted to return home, he might have missed the opportunity to become the great prophet whose word never fell to the ground (1 Samuel 3:19).
For David, his opportunity came when he obeyed his father’s instruction to take food to the battlefield for his brothers (1 Samuel 17:14-20). I pray that you will discern your opportunities and use them well, in Jesus’ name.
PRAYER POINT
Father, help me see the opportunities You send my way, and please empower me to seize them, in Jesus’ name.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Nehemiah 11-13
RCCG HYMN 15: Pass Me Not O Gentle Saviour
OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 24 MAY 2025 COMMENTARY
Memorise: Ecclesiastes 9:11 (KJV)
This verse reveals that divine opportunities (“time and chance”) come to everyone, but success depends on recognizing and seizing them.
Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 9:10-11 (KJV)
Solomon’s wisdom emphasizes maximizing every opportunity (“whatsoever thy hand findeth to do”), as our earthly window is limited.
Key Insights from Today’s Open Heaven Devotional
1. The Nature of Divine Opportunities
Biblical Characteristics:
Universal: Comes to all (Ecclesiastes 9:11)
Time-bound: “A tide…taken at the flood” (Shakespeare)
Disguised: Often in humble packages (1 Samuel 16:11)
Non-repeatable: Esther’s “for such a time” moment (Esther 4:14)
Modern Examples:
The author’s decision to stay in RCCG despite challenges
David’s obedience to deliver food becoming his anointing moment
2. Why Opportunities Are Missed
Spiritual Dullness (Matthew 13:15)
Failing to discern God’s hand in circumstances
Offended Spirit (Matthew 11:6)
Rejecting opportunities because of imperfect vessels (Samuel with Eli)
Comfort Zone Mentality (Luke 9:62)
Like Lot’s wife looking back (Genesis 19:26)
Procrastination (Proverbs 6:10-11)
The foolish virgins missed the bridegroom (Matthew 25:1-13)
3. Biblical Models of Opportunity Seizers
Character
Opportunity
Action
Result
Ruth
Gleaning rights (Ruth 2:2)
Worked diligently
Became David’s ancestor
Nehemiah
King’s cupbearer role (Nehemiah 1:11)
Requested Jerusalem’s rebuild
Completed the walls in 52 days
Peter
Post-resurrection fishing (John 21:3)
Cast net on Jesus’ word
153-fish miracle
4. How to Position for Your Divine Moment
Maintain Spiritual Alertness (Mark 13:33)
Daily prayer and Scripture study sharpens discernment
Develop Obedience Reflex (1 Samuel 15:22)
David’s food delivery seemed mundane but led to Goliath’s defeat
Reject Offense (Proverbs 19:11)
Samuel served under corrupt Eli without becoming bitter
Embrace Discomfort (Hebrews 11:25)
Moses chose affliction over palace pleasures
5. Consequences of Missed Opportunities
Personal:
Regret (Esau’s lost birthright – Hebrews 12:16-17)
Poverty (Proverbs 20:13)
Generational:
Israelites’ 40-year wilderness delay affected their children
Eternal:
The rich young ruler’s choice cost discipleship (Mark 10:21-22)
Life Applications
For the Hesitant:
Action: List 3 current opportunities you’ve been avoiding
Prayer: “Lord, give me courage to step into my ‘such a time as this’ moment”
For the Offended:
Study: Joseph’s attitude toward his betrayers (Genesis 50:20)
Declaration: “I refuse to let people block my blessings”
For the Comfortable:
Warning: Read Revelation 3:15-16 – the danger of lukewarmness
Challenge: Take one faith-stretching step this week
Divine moments are seasonal – recognize your “flood tide”
Obedience in small things unlocks greater opportunities
Your response today shapes your legacy tomorrow
Prayer Response
“Father, open my eyes to recognize the opportunities You send. Give me Samuel’s discernment, David’s courage, and Ruth’s diligence to seize each divine moment. Let no offense or fear make me miss my destiny, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Final Charge “Will you be like Peter casting nets at Jesus’ word, or the rich young ruler walking away from destiny?” Your greatest opportunity may be disguised as your next obedient step!
The hand of the diligent shall bear rule: but the slothful shall be under tribute. Proverbs 12:24
READ: Ecclesiastes 12:1-7
1 Remember now thy Creator in the days of thy youth, while the evil days come not, nor the years draw nigh, when thou shalt say, I have no pleasure in them; 2 While the sun, or the light, or the moon, or the stars, be not darkened, nor the clouds return after the rain: 3 In the day when the keepers of the house shall tremble, and the strong men shall bow themselves, and the grinders cease because they are few, and those that look out of the windows be darkened, 4 And the doors shall be shut in the streets, when the sound of the grinding is low, and he shall rise up at the voice of the bird, and all the daughters of musick shall be brought low;
5 Also when they shall be afraid of that which is high, and fears shall be in the way, and the almond tree shall flourish, and the grasshopper shall be a burden, and desire shall fail: because man goeth to his long home, and the mourners go about the streets: 6 Or ever the silver cord be loosed, or the golden bowl be broken, or the pitcher be broken at the fountain, or the wheel broken at the cistern. 7 Then shall the dust return to the earth as it was: and the spirit shall return unto God who gave it.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 23 MAY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE
An author once said, “Life is a challenge; meet it.” I would even go further to say, “Rise above it.” Nowadays, however, many young people are seeking a ‘soft life’; there is nothing like a soft life. When I was in secondary school, my teacher taught me that every human being brought a pillow into this world, which must be used before we leave. If some people choose not to use the pillow when they are young, they will definitely use it when they are old. According to my teacher, that pillow represents hardship.
If young people choose to put aside pleasures and go through the hardship of discipline to study, work hard, and nurture the right relationships in their youth, they will enjoy their old age. However, if they choose to party and play around in their youth, when they are old, they will either be lonely or have no choice but to work hard to make ends meet. What my teacher called a pillow is what the Bible calls “the yoke’ in Lamentations 3:27: It is good for a man that he bear the yoke in his youth.
Note that the Scripture above does not say ‘a yoke’, but ‘the yoke’. In other words, every individual has a yoke, and it is good for that person to bear it in his or her youth. People who don’t want to bear the yoke in their youth are lazy people. Some people are born into royal families, but they may never have the opportunity to rule if they are lazy. Who, then, is qualified to rule? Anyone who wants to rule must be ready for hard work. Those who want to rule must be ready to bear the yoke in their youth. If you want to live a soft life in your youth, then you are not ready to rule. Ruling is hard work, and it is only the diligent that will bear rule, as today’s memory verse tells us.
There is no easy road to success; the fact that a fellow was born by a successful person does not mean that the person will succeed in life.
If you are a youth and you want to reign in life, shun laziness. You must also remember your creator in the days of your youth before the difficult days come (Ecclesiastes 12:1). You don’t own your life; take up your cross and follow Jesus so that it can be well with you all the days of your life.
KEY POINT
Those who rule and reign in life are those who are diligent.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Nehemiah 8-10
RCCG HYMN 33: GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH!
OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 23 MAY 2025 COMMENTARY
Memorise: Proverbs 12:24 (KJV)
This verse establishes the divine principle that diligence qualifies for leadership, while laziness leads to servitude.
Bible Reading: Ecclesiastes 12:1-7 (KJV)
Solomon’s wisdom literature emphasizes remembering God in youth before life’s challenges intensify—linking spiritual devotion with lifelong success.
Key Insights from Today’s Open Heaven Devotional
1. The Pillow/Yoke Principle
The Teacher’s Metaphor Explained:
Pillow as Hardship:
Youth: Choosing study over parties → Future reward
“Remember your Creator” precedes “shall bear rule”
Daniel’s excellence rooted in prayer (Daniel 6:10)
4. Consequences of Neglecting the Yoke
Physical Realm:
Poverty (Proverbs 10:4)
Poor health (Proverbs 23:21)
Spiritual Realm:
Unprepared for spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:11)
Disqualified from leadership (1 Timothy 3:6)
5. Jesus’ Model of Youthful Preparation
At Age 12:
Prioritized God’s business (Luke 2:49)
Invested in theological understanding
Hidden Years (12-30):
Mastered carpentry (Mark 6:3)
Developed physical stamina (John 4:6 shows human limits)
Life Applications
For Students:
Action: Create a “Yoke Schedule”—allocate 70% time to study, 30% to recreation
Prayer: “Lord, help me embrace discipline now for future impact”
For Young Professionals:
Strategy: Practice “10% Better Principle”—small daily improvements compound
Warning: Avoid “Golden Handcuffs”—high pay without skill growth is dangerous
For Parents/Leaders:
Teaching Method: Use the “Pillow Object Lesson” from the devotional
Scriptural Reinforcement: Proverbs 13:22—”A good man leaves an inheritance…”
Warning vs. Promise
Warning:“A slack hand causes poverty” (Proverbs 10:4 ESV)
Promise:“The diligent will stand before kings” (Proverbs 22:29)
Conclusion: Your Yoke is Your Ladder
Present discipline determines future dominion
Godly success combines spiritual devotion with practical diligence
The cross comes before the crown (Mark 8:34-35)
Prayer Response
“Father, give me grace to bear my yoke willingly in youth. Help me reject the ‘soft life’ lie and embrace Christlike discipline. Let my daily choices prepare me for eternal impact, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Final Charge “Will you use your pillow of hardship now as a stepping stone, or wait until it becomes your deathbed of regret?” The yoke you resist today is the throne you’ll miss tomorrow!
That which was from the beginning, which we have neard, which we have seen with our eyes, which we have looked upon, and our hands have handled, of the word of life: 1 John 1:1
READ: Mark 5:25-34
25 And a certain woman, which had an issue of blood twelve years, 26 And had suffered many things of many physicians, and had spent all that she had, and was nothing bettered, but rather grew worse, 27 When she had heard of Jesus, came in the press behind, and touched his garment. 28 For she said, If I may touch but his clothes, I shall be whole.
29 And straightway the fountain of her blood was dried up; and she felt in her body that she was healed of that plague. 30 And Jesus, immediately knowing in himself that virtue had gone out of him, turned him about in the press, and said, Who touched my clothes? 31 And his disciples said unto him, Thou seest the multitude thronging thee, and sayest thou, Who touched me? 32 And he looked round about to see her that had done this thing. 33 But the woman fearing and trembling, knowing what was done in her, came and fell down before him, and told him all the truth. 34 And he said unto her, Daughter, thy faith hath made thee whole; go in peace, and be whole of thy plague.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 22 MAY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE
There is nothing like being a testifier and experiencing testimonies personally. When you read of mighty miracles in the Bible or hear testimonies of the great things God has done for His people, you might not fully understand His ‘Almightiness’. However, this will not be the case if you personally experience His supernatural intervention.
Before the spies came to Jericho in Joshua 2:1-23, Rahab had heard of the many mighty miracles of God. She hadn’t seen any of those miracles. but she believed them and her faith eventually made her experience some of God’s miracles. When you hear a testimony or read about something that God did in the Scriptures, let it build faith in you.
The faith built from the testimonies you hear can help you to also experience miracles, like the woman in today’s Bible reading who was reported to have heard about Jesus (Mark 5:27).
I struggled to believe in divine healing and health when I first became born again. In those days, I was always down with malaria and I kept taking medications. One day, I saw an elderly man, whom I had always known to have a bent back, walking perfectly upright in church. I was eager to know what had happened to him, and whlle sharing his testimony, he said that he had gone to evangelise as usual when someone started insulting him in the neighbourhood. The fellow told him that if his God is so powerful, He would have healed him from his condition.
On hearing this, the man said that he got angry and stood straight. He said that even though his back was burning with pain, he stood straight because he couldn’t stand hearing someone talk about his God in that manner.
On getting to his house, the pain disappeared completely. When I heard that testimony, my faith was stirred. and I knew that divine health was possible. I allowed Jesus to become my doctor, and by His grace, I have not had to take malaria medications ever since. I experienced a miracle because my faith increased when I heard someone else’ testimony.
Beloved, if you have heard a testimony from someone about a kind of miracle that you are believing God for, let it build faith in you. God is no respecter of persons (Acts 10:34); if He has given someone a miracle, He is willing and able to do the same for you. I pray that you will experience a mighty miracle from God today, in Jesus’ name.
ACTION POINT
Meditate on testimonies concerning the things you are believing God for until they build faith in you.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Nehemiah 4-7
RCCG HYMN 35: ‘TIS SO SWEET TO TRUST IN JESUS
OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 22 MAY 2025 COMMENTARY
Memorise: 1 John 1:1 (KJV)
This verse emphasizes firsthand spiritual encounters—the kind of experiences that transform abstract faith into tangible reality.
Bible Reading: Mark 5:25-34 (KJV)
The story of the woman with the issue of blood demonstrates how hearing testimonies about Jesus (v.27) birthed faith that secured her miracle.
Key Insights from Today’s Open Heaven Devotional
1. The Transformative Power of Testimonies
Biblical Examples:
Rahab: Heard about Israel’s miracles (Joshua 2:10-11) → Was saved (Joshua 6:25)
The Bleeding Woman: Heard about Jesus (Mark 5:27) → Received healing
The Author: Witnessed a healing testimony → Experienced divine health
Threefold Impact of Testimonies:
Revelation: Reveals God’s nature (Psalm 145:4)
Faith Activation: “Faith comes by hearing” (Romans 10:17)
Hope Sustenance: Encourages during waiting periods (Hebrews 10:23)
2. From Secondhand Faith to Firsthand Experience
The Progression Seen in Mark 5:
Hearing (“She had heard of Jesus”)
Believing (“If I may touch His clothes…”)
Acting (“Came in the press behind…”)
Testifying (“She told Him all the truth”)
Modern Application: Your miracle often follows this same sequence:
Hear/read a testimony
Let it build faith
Take corresponding action
Share your own story
3. Overcoming Doubt Through Witnessed Miracles
Daddy Adeboye’s Journey:
Initial Struggle: Doubted divine healing
Faith Catalyst: Saw a bent back straightened
Personal Application: Free from malaria
Lasting Result: Years of divine health
Biblical Parallels:
Thomas’ doubt overcome by seeing Christ’s wounds (John 20:27-29)
The Samaritans believed first through the woman’s testimony (John 4:39)
4. The Science of Testimony-Based Faith
Neurological Impact
Hearing miracle stories activates faith centers in the brain
Creates new neural pathways for belief
Spiritual Principle
Testimonies are “faith seeds” (Mark 4:14-20)
When planted in good soil (open hearts), they produce harvests
Action: Create a “Testimony Journal” – record miracles you hear/read
Prayer: “Holy Spirit, make these testimonies living faith-seeds in me”
For the Needy:
Study: Identify 3 Bible characters who received what you need
Declaration: “What God did for _____, He’ll do for me!”
For Miracle Recipients:
Challenge: Share your story this week (Revelation 12:11)
Warning: Don’t let pride steal your testimony’s power (2 Corinthians 12:7)
Warning vs. Promise
Warning:“Unbelief makes testimonies ineffective” (Hebrews 3:19)
Promise:“God shows no favoritism” (Acts 10:34) – Your turn is coming!
Conclusion: Your Testimony Awaits
Today’s heard miracles are tomorrow’s experienced wonders
Faith grows fastest in the soil of others’ testimonies
Your coming breakthrough will become someone else’s faith catalyst
Prayer Response
“Father, open my ears to hear testimonies with faith. Let every miracle story I encounter build expectation for my own breakthrough. Make me a living testimony of Your power, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
He sent his word, and healed them, and delivered them from their destructions. Psalm 107:20
READ: John 5:1-9
1 After this there was a feast of the Jews; and Jesus went up to Jerusalem. 2 Now there is at Jerusalem by the sheep market a pool, which is called in the Hebrew tongue Bethesda, having five porches. 3 In these lay a great multitude of impotent folk, of blind, halt, withered, waiting for the moving of the water. 4 For an angel went down at a certain season into the pool, and troubled the water: whosoever then first after the troubling of the water stepped in was made whole of whatsoever disease he had.
5 And a certain man was there, which had an infirmity thirty and eight years. 6 When Jesus saw him lie, and knew that he had been now a long time in that case, he saith unto him, Wilt thou be made whole? 7 The impotent man answered him, Sir, I have no man, when the water is troubled, to put me into the pool: but while I am coming, another steppeth down before me. 8 Jesus saith unto him, Rise, take up thy bed, and walk. 9 And immediately the man was made whole, and took up his bed, and walked: and on the same day was the sabbath.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 21 MAY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE
A lady, who had consistently failed her driving test for 17 years, attended one of our Holy Ghost Services. During the service, the word of God came, “There is somebody here; you will never fail another exam.” The next time she took the driving test, she passed.
When God’s word comes, negative cycles of frustration and pain come to an end. After Joshua and the Israelites crossed Jordan, they were met by another obstacle: Jericho. The city had formidable walls, and the gates were shut.
Now Jericho was straitly shut up because of the children of Israel: none went out, and none came in. Joshua 6:1
When the word of God came, the walls fell down like a pack of cards before the Israelites.
I decree today that the word you need to overcome great and ancient obstacles will come to you, in Jesus’ name. The sick man at the pool of Bethesda in today’s Bible reading had endured a terrible cycle of frustration, pain, and disappointment for 38 years.
However, when the word of God (Jesus) came to him, he got his healing and was delivered from the long cycle of negative circumstances surrounding him. When the word of God came to him, everything turned around for good. In the name that is above every other name, the word that will turn your good dreams into realities and change whatever negative circumstances that exist in your life permanently will come to you. If you have been experiencing any form of bondage, God will destroy everything that has kept you in chains, in Jesus’ name.
In 2 Kings 4:1-7, the story of the widow of one of the sons of the prophets changed for good.
When her husband died, he left his family in so much debt that his sons were going to become slaves. Thankfully, she didn’t keep her problems to herself; she cried out to God’s representative, Elisha, and her cry activated a word from heaven that changed her life. She got a miracle that not only brought her out of debt but also gave her and her children enough to live on for the rest of her life.
Beloved, you can get God to send His word to heal you and break you out of any bondage you might be experiencing if you cry to Him for help. If you stay quiet, nothing will change about the situation. However, if you cry to Him, He will send His word and deliver you.
PRAYER POINT
Father, please send Your word to me today, in Jesus’ name.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Nehemiah 1-3
HYMN 25: THE GREAT PHYSICIANS NOW IS NEAR
OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 21 MAY 2025 COMMENTARY
Memorise: Psalm 107:20 (KJV)
This powerful verse establishes that God’s spoken word carries creative power to heal, deliver, and transform impossible situations.
Bible Reading: John 5:1-9 (KJV)
The account of the invalid at Bethesda demonstrates how 38 years of suffering ended instantlywhen Jesus spoke a word of liberation.
Key Insights from Today’s Open Heaven Devotional
1. The Nature of Negative Cycles
Characteristics of Bondage:
Repetitive failures (like the 17-year driving test struggle)
Seemingly insurmountable obstacles (Jericho’s walls in Joshua 6:1)
Prolonged suffering (38 years at Bethesda)
Hopeless indebtedness (the widow’s crisis in 2 Kings 4:1)
Spiritual Reality: These patterns often indicate demonic strongholds (Ephesians 6:12) that only divine intervention can break.
2. How God’s Word Breaks Chains
Prophetic Declaration
The driving test prophecy created a new reality (Isaiah 55:11)
Jesus’ “Rise, take up thy bed” command overrode 38 years of paralysis
Divine Strategy
Jericho’s walls fell through obedience to unusual instructions (Joshua 6:3-5)
The widow’s oil multiplied when she followed Elisha’s precise directions
Timely Intervention
At the “due time” (Romans 5:6), God interrupts cycles:
17 years → driving license
38 years → healing
Generations → Jericho’s fall
3. Pathways to Receive Your Breakthrough Word
Positioning in God’s Presence
The invalid was at Bethesda (place of healing)
The lady attended Holy Ghost Service
Persistent Crying Out
The widow “cried unto Elisha” (2 Kings 4:1)
Bartimaeus kept shouting despite opposition (Mark 10:48)
Obedience to Divine Instructions
Joshua’s army marched silently for 6 days
The widow gathered empty vessels
4. The Power of Testimonies
Purpose of Shared Breakthroughs:
Builds faith in others (Revelation 19:10)
Confirms God’s faithfulness (Psalm 22:22)
Creates expectation for new miracles
Modern Application: The 17-year driving test testimony encourages those facing:
Academic struggles
Job search frustrations
Recurring health issues
5. Jesus as the Living Word
Christ’s Authority Over Cycles:
Breaks generational curses (Galatians 3:13)
Cancels chronic illnesses (1 Peter 2:24)
Overrides legalistic religion (John 5:10)
Transforms financial lack (2 Corinthians 8:9)
Life Applications
For the Frustrated:
Action: Identify your longest-standing struggle – bring it before God today
Prayer: “Father, send Your word to break this _____ year cycle of _____”
For the Silent Sufferer:
Study: Compare the invalid’s passivity (John 5:7) with Bartimaeus’ boldness (Mark 10:47)
Challenge: Share your need with a spiritual leader (James 5:14)
For the Weary Warrior:
Encouragement: Your “7th day march” (Joshua 6:15) may be tomorrow!
Declaration: “This prolonged battle is my coming testimony!”
Promise:“God’s word never returns void” (Isaiah 55:11)
Conclusion: Your Turnaround Word is Coming!
Divine interruptions often follow prolonged trials – don’t lose hope
One word from God can override decades of failure – stay expectant
Your testimony will empower others – prepare to share it
Prayer Response
“Father, send Your word to break every negative cycle in my life today. Give me courage to cry out like Bartimaeus, obedience to follow like Joshua, and faith to receive like the widow. Let my breakthrough become a testimony of Your power, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Final Charge “The same God who collapsed Jericho’s walls in a day is speaking to your mountain right now—will you believe His word?” Your years of waiting are about to become minutes of miracle!
And God said, Let there be light: and there was light. Genesis 1:3
READ: Psalm 33:6-9
6 By the word of the Lord were the heavens made; and all the host of them by the breath of his mouth. 7 He gathereth the waters of the sea together as an heap: he layeth up the depth in storehouses. 8 Let all the earth fear the Lord: let all the inhabitants of the world stand in awe of him. 9 For he spake, and it was done; he commanded, and it stood fast.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 20 MAY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE
Prophecies can be conditional. For instance, Isaiah 1:19 says that you will eat the good of the land if you are willing and obedient. Also, Isaiah 3:10 says, “Say ye to the righteous, that it shall be well with him…” However, when it comes to decrees, God does not attach conditions. In today’s memory verse, He said,
“Let there be light,” and there was light.
There had been many prophecies concerning Abraham, including prophecies that he would be the father of many nations and that his children would be as many as the stars in the sky. However, in Genesis 18:14, God simply said, “In nine months’ time, Sarah will give birth to a son.” That is a clear example of turning a prophecy into a decree.
As a child of God, there is always something you need to do to turn prophecies into decrees.
When you provoke a blessing from God, He is likely to turn the prophecies He has given you into decrees. To provoke God into doing this, you need to honour Him. Honouring God does not always have to do with material things.
Abraham didn’t give his visitors any gifts; he simply honoured them by hosting them in his home. You can honour God by simply obeying His commands, such as His command to win souls (Matthew 28:19-20). You can also honour Him by serving in your local assembly and honouring him with your firstfruits (Proverbs 3:9).
Another way to honour God is by having faith in His word. In Luke 7:1-10, when the centurion sent the elder of the Jews to plead with Jesus to come and heal his sick servant, Jesus was ready to do so until the man sent his friends to say, “Lord, you don’t have to come to my house because I believe Your word is just as powerful as You are. Just speak a word, and my servant will be healed” (Luke 7:6-8). Jesus was amazed at the man’s faith, and his servant was healed immediately. Giving God thanks is yet another way to honour Him.
In Luke 17:12-19, ten lepers cried out to Jesus for mercy, and He asked them to show themselves to the priests. They received their healing on the way, but only one of them returned to glorify God. Jesus then decreed his wholeness because he returned to give thanks.
Beloved, as you follow these principles, I pray that every good prophecy you have received will become a decree, in Jesus’ name.
KEY POINT
You can provoke God into turning His prophecies concerning you into decrees by honouring Him.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Ezra 8-10
RCCG HYMN 15: Pass Me Not O Gentle Saviour
OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 20 MAY 2025 COMMENTARY
Memorise: Genesis 1:3 (KJV)
This foundational Scripture demonstrates the irrevocable power of divine decrees—unconditional, creative words that manifest instantly.
Bible Reading: Psalm 33:6-9 (KJV)
This passage confirms that God’s decrees carry creative power, unlike conditional prophecies that require human response.
God’s prophecies are checks—your obedience cashes them
Every act of honor is a seed for supernatural decrees
The thankful heart always receives wholeness
Prayer Response
“Father, transform every prophecy over my life into irrevocable decrees. Give me grace to honor You through obedience, giving, and persistent faith. Let my lifestyle provoke Your creative power as in Genesis 1:3, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Final Charge “Your next act of obedience could be the key that turns God’s ‘I will’ into ‘It is done!’” Will you position yourself for divine decrees today?
Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares. Hebrews 13:2
READ: 2 Kings 4:8-17
8 And it fell on a day, that Elisha passed to Shunem, where was a great woman; and she constrained him to eat bread. And so it was, that as oft as he passed by, he turned in thither to eat bread. 9 And she said unto her husband, Behold now, I perceive that this is an holy man of God, which passeth by us continually. 10 Let us make a little chamber, I pray thee, on the wall; and let us set for him there a bed, and a table, and a stool, and a candlestick: and it shall be, when he cometh to us, that he shall turn in thither.
11 And it fell on a day, that he came thither, and he turned into the chamber, and lay there. 12 And he said to Gehazi his servant, Call this Shunammite. And when he had called her, she stood before him. 13 And he said unto him, Say now unto her, Behold, thou hast been careful for us with all this care; what is to be done for thee? wouldest thou be spoken for to the king, or to the captain of the host? And she answered, I dwell among mine own people.
14 And he said, What then is to be done for her? And Gehazi answered, Verily she hath no child, and her husband is old. 15 And he said, Call her. And when he had called her, she stood in the door. 16 And he said, About this season, according to the time of life, thou shalt embrace a son. And she said, Nay, my lord, thou man of God, do not lie unto thine handmaid. 17 And the woman conceived, and bare a son at that season that Elisha had said unto her, according to the time of life.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 19 MAY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE
In today’s Bible reading, a Shunammite woman compelled Elisha to stop by her house for a meal as he passed through her city. She kept on entertaining the prophet at her home every time he passed by, and eventually, she and her husband built him a little room in their house so he could stay and rest during his travels.
After a while, Elisha, moved by her generosity, summoned her and told her that she would soon be carrying a baby. She conceived and gave birth to a son according to the prophet’s decree, all because of her hospitality.
Sometimes, when the appointed time for your miracle comes, you will suddenly have a very strong urge to be really generous and hospitable. You will desire to be a blessing to people even more than before. Today’s memory verse says that you should be mindful to entertain strangers as you may be entertaining angels without knowing it. The reason for this is that God can send an angel to deliver your miracle, and that angel can come in the form of a human being. If you are hospitable to the angel, you will get the miracle.
In Genesis 18:1-14, Abraham saw three men passing in front of his tent, and he invited them to eat, wash their feet, and rest a little. After they had eaten, one of the men asked him about Sarah and told him that she would give birth to a son. Their barrenness of many years ended that day because Abraham suddenly felt the urge to be generous to complete strangers.
When you start feeling an urge to be more generous than you’ve ever been, please don’t resist it. God might be trying to push you to do something that will launch you into your miracle. It must have been difficult for the widow of Zarephath to give Elijah the last meal meant for her and her son. Ordinarily, a generous mother will say something like, “I can do without eating, but I cannot give you my son’s meal.” However, she felt the urge to be unusually generous, and she didn’t resist it.
In return, she had enough food for herself and her son throughout the famine.
Beloved, when you feel a strong urge to give, do not resist it; you might just be launching yourself into your next level. May God reward your kindness and hospitality towards others with abundant testimonies far beyond the imaginations of your heart and all that you are asking Him for, in Jesus’ name.
ACTION POINT
When you feel a strong urge to be generous, take action; do not push it aside.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Ezra 5-7
RCCG HYMN 33: GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH!
OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 19 MAY 2025 COMMENTARY
Memorise: Hebrews 13:2 (KJV)
This verse establishes the principle that hospitality is not merely a social virtue but a potential portal for divine encounters.
Bible Reading: 2 Kings 4:8-17 (KJV)
The account of the Shunammite woman demonstrates how consistent generosity to God’s servants attracts supernatural rewards, transforming barrenness into fruitfulness.
Key Insights from Today’s Open Heaven Devotional
1. The Law of Spiritual Reciprocity
Biblical Patterns:
Shunammite woman → Received a son (2 Kings 4:17)
Abraham → Received covenant confirmation (Genesis 18:10)
Widow of Zarephath → Received endless provision (1 Kings 17:15-16)
Jesus’ Teaching: “Give, and it shall be given unto you…” (Luke 6:38) “He that receiveth a prophet… shall receive a prophet’s reward” (Matthew 10:41)
2. Three Levels of Hospitality That Trigger Miracles
Basic Kindness (Initial Meal Offering)
The Shunammite’s first invitation (2 Kings 4:8)
Comparable to the boy’s five loaves (John 6:9)
Consistent Care (Recurring Ministry Support)
“She constrained him to eat bread… as oft as he passed by” (2 Kings 4:8)
Like the women who ministered to Jesus (Luke 8:1-3)
Sacrificial Provision (Permanent Space Creation)
“Let us make a little chamber” (2 Kings 4:10)
Parallel to Zacchaeus’ hospitality (Luke 19:5-6)
3. The Divine Urge to Give
Recognizing the Prompting:
Abraham ran to meet the visitors (Genesis 18:2)
The widow obeyed despite starvation (1 Kings 17:13)
Modern Applications:
Sudden compassion for a missionary’s need
Unusual burden to support a ministry project
Unexpected desire to host spiritual gatherings
4. Angelic Visitations Through Human Vessels
Biblical Manifestations:
Manoah’s wife: Entertained an angel (Judges 13:3)
Lot: Hosted angelic rescuers (Genesis 19:1-3)
Peter: Received Cornelius’ messengers (Acts 10:3-7)
Contemporary Implications:
Your guest preacher may carry your miracle
That needy stranger might be a divine test
The visiting missionary could be your connection to breakthrough
5. The Danger of Resisting Generosity
Biblical Warnings:
Rich Young Ruler: Rejected giving prompt (Matthew 19:22)
Simon the Sorcerer: Misused giving motive (Acts 8:18-20)
Spiritual Principles:
Delayed obedience is disobedience
Conditional giving receives no reward
Reluctant offerings lack spiritual power (2 Corinthians 9:7)
Practical Applications
For the Hesitant Giver:
Action: Start small but consistent (like the Shunammite’s initial meals)
Prayer: “Lord, give me discernment to recognize divine giving opportunities”
For the Weary Host:
Encouragement: Your “little chamber” (2 Kings 4:10) may be incubating someone’s destiny – and yours!
Study: Compare Phoebe’s hospitality (Romans 16:1-2) with her historic role in delivering Paul’s epistle
For the Financially Strapped:
Promise: The widow’s obedience preceded her miracle (1 Kings 17:15)
Declaration: “My seed is my need” (Genesis 8:22)
Warning vs. Promise
Warning:“Neglecting hospitality may mean rejecting angels” (Hebrews 13:2)
Divine connections often come through open doors – maintain a hospitable spirit
The size of your giving determines the scale of your harvest – sow bountifully
Angels still walk among us – treat every guest as potentially divine
Prayer Response
“Father, make me sensitive to divine giving prompts. Help me to entertain strangers with joy, recognizing each act of hospitality as potential kingdom investment. Let my generosity unlock supernatural breakthroughs, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Final Charge “Your next meal invitation could be your ticket to answered prayers – will you open your door?” The Shunammite’s chamber became her miracle room – what’s your equivalent?
