Category: Open Heaven Devotional

The Open Heaven 19 July 2025 devotional for today is BE KIND ALWAYS.

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

• Read: RCCG Open Heaven 18 July 2025 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVEN 19 JULY 2025 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: BE KIND ALWAYS

MEMORISE:
And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.
Ephesians 4:32

READ: Joshua 2:1-24

1 And Joshua the son of Nun sent out of Shittim two men to spy secretly, saying, Go view the land, even Jericho. And they went, and came into an harlot’s house, named Rahab, and lodged there.
2 And it was told the king of Jericho, saying, Behold, there came men in hither to night of the children of Israel to search out the country.
3 And the king of Jericho sent unto Rahab, saying, Bring forth the men that are come to thee, which are entered into thine house: for they be come to search out all the country.
4 And the woman took the two men, and hid them, and said thus, There came men unto me, but I wist not whence they were:
5 And it came to pass about the time of shutting of the gate, when it was dark, that the men went out: whither the men went I wot not: pursue after them quickly; for ye shall overtake them.

6 But she had brought them up to the roof of the house, and hid them with the stalks of flax, which she had laid in order upon the roof.
7 And the men pursued after them the way to Jordan unto the fords: and as soon as they which pursued after them were gone out, they shut the gate.
8 And before they were laid down, she came up unto them upon the roof;
9 And she said unto the men, I know that the Lord hath given you the land, and that your terror is fallen upon us, and that all the inhabitants of the land faint because of you.
10 For we have heard how the Lord dried up the water of the Red sea for you, when ye came out of Egypt; and what ye did unto the two kings of the Amorites, that were on the other side Jordan, Sihon and Og, whom ye utterly destroyed.

11 And as soon as we had heard these things, our hearts did melt, neither did there remain any more courage in any man, because of you: for the Lord your God, he is God in heaven above, and in earth beneath.
12 Now therefore, I pray you, swear unto me by the Lord, since I have shewed you kindness, that ye will also shew kindness unto my father’s house, and give me a true token:
13 And that ye will save alive my father, and my mother, and my brethren, and my sisters, and all that they have, and deliver our lives from death.
14 And the men answered her, Our life for yours, if ye utter not this our business. And it shall be, when the Lord hath given us the land, that we will deal kindly and truly with thee.
15 Then she let them down by a cord through the window: for her house was upon the town wall, and she dwelt upon the wall.

16 And she said unto them, Get you to the mountain, lest the pursuers meet you; and hide yourselves there three days, until the pursuers be returned: and afterward may ye go your way.
17 And the men said unto her, We will be blameless of this thine oath which thou hast made us swear.
18 Behold, when we come into the land, thou shalt bind this line of scarlet thread in the window which thou didst let us down by: and thou shalt bring thy father, and thy mother, and thy brethren, and all thy father’s household, home unto thee.
19 And it shall be, that whosoever shall go out of the doors of thy house into the street, his blood shall be upon his head, and we will be guiltless: and whosoever shall be with thee in the house, his blood shall be on our head, if any hand be upon him.
20 And if thou utter this our business, then we will be quit of thine oath which thou hast made us to swear.

21 And she said, According unto your words, so be it. And she sent them away, and they departed: and she bound the scarlet line in the window.
22 And they went, and came unto the mountain, and abode there three days, until the pursuers were returned: and the pursuers sought them throughout all the way, but found them not.
23 So the two men returned, and descended from the mountain, and passed over, and came to Joshua the son of Nun, and told him all things that befell them:
24 And they said unto Joshua, Truly the Lord hath delivered into our hands all the land; for even all the inhabitants of the country do faint because of us.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 19 JULY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE

Some people speak to strangers rudely, especially those who seem to be of a lower social status than them. Some other people answer phone calls from phone numbers that are not on their contact list as if the fellow on the line is being a nuisance. They don’t wait to know who is on the line; they just pick up and ask harshly, “Who’s this?!” 

Hebrews 13:2 says that you should be kind to all men because you don’t know when you will meet an angel. Do you know that God can send your helper to you through a phone call?

I shared a story in this devotional two days ago about how I was in need of £50 during a trip to the UK several years ago. I asked God for £50, and some minutes later, my phone rang. The fellow at the other end said, “Biyi?” I replied, “There’s no Biyi here.” He asked, “Is that not so and so number?” I said, “Yes, but there’s no Biyi here.” So, he said, “I’m sorry.” I replied, “That’s okay, God bless you.”

Then he said, “What do you mean God bless me? How do you know God?” I replied, “He’s my saviour.” Then he asked, “Who am I talking to?” I told him my name, and that was how God used him to answer my request for £50.

Imagine if I had spoken harshly to him because I didn’t know him and we were only speaking because he had dialled the wrong number, I would have missed God’s blessing.

In today’s Bible reading, Rahab the harlot showed kindness to the spies. She took a big risk by keeping them in her house. Her kindness later saved her family when the walls of Jericho crumbled (Joshua 6:22-25). It also positioned her as one of the great-great-grandmothers of Jesus (Matthew 1:5) and ensured she was included in the hall of faith (Hebrews 11:31). 

Proverbs 31:26 tells us about the virtuous woman who opens her mouth with wisdom and has the law of kindness in her tongue. Be kind with your words and in your actions towards others. Let your words make people hopeful, not depressed and dejected. You will reap whatever seed you sow.

Beloved, God could decide to answer your prayer through a ‘wrong number’ call or a random conversation with a complete stranger. This is why you should always be kind and courteous. I pray you won’t miss God’s blessings for you, in Jesus’ name.

OPEN HEAVEN 19 JULY 2025 KEY POINT

Be kind and courteous at all times.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Isaiah 15-19

HYMN 59: I WANT TO BE LIKE JESUS

OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 19 JULY 2025 COMMENTARY

MEMORISE: Ephesians 4:32

“And be ye kind one to another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God for Christ’s sake hath forgiven you.”

This verse establishes kindness as a non-negotiable Christian virtue—not just a social nicety. It reminds us that our kindness should mirror God’s unconditional forgiveness toward us.

BIBLE READING: Joshua 2:1-24

The story of Rahab and the spies demonstrates how one act of kindness:

• Saved her family from destruction (Joshua 6:25)
• Secured her place in Christ’s lineage (Matthew 1:5)
• Earned her eternal recognition (Hebrews 11:31)

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Divine Appointments in Disguise

The devotional combines Pastor Adeboye’s £50 phone call miracle with Rahab’s story to reveal a profound truth: God often sends blessings through unexpected channels—if we don’t reject them with rudeness.

1. Why Kindness Matters Eternally

• Angels Unaware (Hebrews 13:2):
  • Every stranger could be a divine messenger (Genesis 18:1-5).
  • Pastor Adeboye’s polite response to a “wrong number” unlocked his miracle.
• The Rahab Principle:
  • Her kindness to spies (enemies!) rewrote her bloodline and legacy.

2. Modern-Day Rudeness That Blocks Blessings

• Harsh Phone Responses:
  • “Who’s this?!” vs. “Hello, how may I help you?”
• Class Discrimination:
  • Snubbing “lower status” people (James 2:1-4).
• Service Industry Disrespect:
  • Mistreating waiters, cleaners, etc., unaware they might be God’s agents.

3. The Law of Kindness (Proverbs 31:26)

• Speech That Heals:
  • “Pleasant words are as a honeycomb, sweet to the soul” (Proverbs 16:24).
• Actions That Speak:
  • Giving a meal (Matthew 10:42), offering rides, or simply smiling.

4. Consequences of Unkindness

• Missed Divine Encounters:
  • Like Nabal insulting David’s men (1 Samuel 25:10-13), rudeness invites judgment.
• Generational Impact:
  • Rahab’s kindness blessed her descendants; unkindness can curse them (Exodus 20:5).

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How to Cultiate Habitual Kindness

1. See Christ in Everyone (Matthew 25:40):
   • Treat strangers as you would Jesus.
2. Pause Before Responding (James 1:19):
   • Ask: “Is this how I’d want my angelic helper treated?”
3. Practice “Reverse Rudeness”:
   • When others are harsh, respond with gentleness (Proverbs 15:1).
4. Pray for a Tender Heart:
   • “Lord, make me sensitive to divine appointments in disguise.”

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Conclusion: Your Next Kindness Could Be Your Breakthrough

Ask yourself:

• “Have I been rude to ‘nobodies’ who might be God’s ‘somebodies’?”
• “What blessings might I have missed through impatience or pride?”

Prayer:
“Father, uproot every seed of rudeness in me. Help me to sow kindness relentlessly, knowing I may entertain angels unawares. Let my words and actions open doors for Your miracles, in Jesus’ name!”

Remember: Heaven records your kindnesses—even a cup of water given in love (Mark 9:41). Your “Rahab moment” or “wrong number miracle” is coming—will you be kind enough to recognize it?

“As we have therefore opportunity, let us do good unto all men, especially unto them who are of the household of faith.” (Galatians 6:10).

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The Open Heaven 18 July 2025 devotional for today is DON’T THINK FOR GOD.

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

• Read: RCCG Open Heaven 17 July 2025 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVEN 18 JULY 2025 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: DON’T THINK FOR GOD

MEMORISE:
Lo, these are parts of his ways: but how little a portion is heard of him? but the thunder of his power who can understand?
Job 26:14

READ: Romans 11:33-36

33 O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are his judgments, and his ways past finding out!
34 For who hath known the mind of the Lord? or who hath been his counsellor?
35 Or who hath first given to him, and it shall be recompensed unto him again?
36 For of him, and through him, and to him, are all things: to whom be glory for ever. Amen.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 18 JULY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE

Many times, believers ask God for things and then begin to think about how He will achieve them. In reality, however, our brains cannot understand how God will do the things He wishes to do. 

For instance, when a man says he has a PhD in Mathematics, it may sound like a big deal, but in truth, he can only be a specialist in an aspect of the subject. If he finds himself among fellow mathematicians, they will begin to ask him questions like, “What is your area of specialisation?” If he says, “Applied Maths”, they might further ask, “What section of Applied Maths?” He might respond, “Fluid Dynamics”. They can still ask, “What section of Fluid Dynamics?” The questioning can go on until it becomes evident that his PhD degree is just a little pin-head in Mathematics.

It will take you over 1,000 years to know all there is to know about Mathematics. However, God knows all Mathematics, Physics, Chemistry, Geography, and all other subjects, including those that are yet to be discovered. You simply can’t compare your wisdom and knowledge to His. Why, then, do believers try to calculate how He will choose to do something?

When I became the General Overseer of The Redeemed Christian Church of God in 1981, quite a few people in the church thought that my appointment was rigged. They thought that l used my position as a Mathematics lecturer to manipulate the General Superintendent because he was uneducated.

I looked up to God to show the people that I did not manoeuvre my way into becoming the General Overseer and that He chose me Himself. God then began to do something extraordinary.

We used to hold monthly seminars for some days, and on the first day of each seminar, a woman would deliver a baby boy in our maternity centre. After several months of this happening, it became clear that it was not coincidental, and those with spiritual understanding among us discerned that it was a sign from God confirming that He had chosen me Himself. I could never have imagined that God would use this as one of the ways to confirm that He had chosen me.

Beloved, when you ask God for something, please don’t ever think of how He will do it because it is beyond you. Just ask, obey whatever instructions He gives you, and leave the rest to Him.

OPEN HEAVEN 18 JULY 2025 KEY POINT

When you ask God for something, don’t think about how He will do it; only trust and obey Him.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Isaiah 12-14

HYMN 1: ALL HAIL THE POWER OF JESUS’ NAME

OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 18 JULY 2025 COMMENTARY

MEMORISE: Job 26:14

“Lo, these are parts of His ways: but how little a portion is heard of Him? but the thunder of His power who can understand?”

This verse humbles human intellect before God’s infinite wisdom. What we perceive of His ways is merely a fragment—His methods are beyond full comprehension, yet always perfect.

BIBLE READING: Romans 11:33-36

“O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God! how unsearchable are His judgments, and His ways past finding out!”

Paul’s doxology declares that God’s plans and processes transcend human logic. Our role is trust, not analysis.

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The Futility of “Figuring Out” God’s Methods

Pastor E.A. Adeboye’s testimony about his divine appointment as G.O. illustrates a critical truth: God confirms His will in ways we’d never engineer.

1. Why Human Logic Fails to Decipher Divine Plans

• Limited Knowledge (Job 38:4-5):
  • Even a PhD (like Adeboye’s in Mathematics) is a “pin-head” of understanding compared to God’s omniscience.
• Unpredictable Methods (Isaiah 55:8-9):
  • The monthly baby boys at RCCG seminars were an unimaginable confirmation of Adeboye’s calling.

2. Biblical Examples of God’s Unconventional Confirmations

• Gideon’s Fleece (Judges 6:36-40):
  • God answered specific, odd requests to build Gideon’s faith.
• Elijah’s Fire vs. Baal’s Prophets (1 Kings 18:38):
  • God used dramatic, undeniable power to silence doubters.

3. The Danger of “How” Thinking

• It Distracts from Faith (2 Corinthians 5:7):
  • Like Peter walking on water (Matthew 14:30), overanalyzing “how” leads to sinking.
• It Limits God (Mark 6:5-6):
  • Jesus couldn’t do miracles in Nazareth due to their skeptical calculations.

4. How to Respond to God’s Mysterious Ways

1. Ask Boldly Without Stipulating Methods (John 16:24).
2. Obey Promptly When He Speaks (1 Samuel 15:22).
   • Naaman almost missed healing by arguing about river dips (2 Kings 5:10-14).
3. Watch for Unexpected Confirmations (Psalm 37:23).
   • Adeboye didn’t plan the baby boy signs—God orchestrated them.

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Practical Steps to Trust God’s Wisdom

1. Pray the “Whatever” Prayer:
   • “Lord, I ask for [request]. Whatever way You choose to answer, I trust You.”
2. Study God’s Track Record:
   • Meditate on Scriptures where God worked unexpectedly (e.g., Red Sea parting, virgin birth).
3. Silence Doubt with Worship:
   • When confused, declare like Paul: “To God be glory forever!” (Romans 11:36).

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Conclusion: Rest in His Unsearchable Wisdom

Ask yourself:

• “Have I been limiting God by demanding He work my way?”
• “Am I missing His confirmations because they don’t fit my expectations?”

Prayer:
“Father, forgive me for trying to box Your power into my understanding. Help me to ask, obey, and marvel at Your wonder-working ways, in Jesus’ name!”

Remember: God’s “how” is none of your business—your job is to believe. When you release the need to understand, you position yourself for miracles that silence every critic.

“It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honour of kings is to search out a matter.” (Proverbs 25:2).

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The Open Heaven 17 July 2025 devotional for today is BECAUSE YOU ASK NOT.

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

• Read: RCCG Open Heaven 16 July 2025 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVEN 17 JULY 2025 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: BECAUSE YOU ASK NOT

MEMORISE:
Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.
John 16:24

READ: John 6:5-13

5 When Jesus then lifted up his eyes, and saw a great company come unto him, he saith unto Philip, Whence shall we buy bread, that these may eat?
6 And this he said to prove him: for he himself knew what he would do.
7 Philip answered him, Two hundred pennyworth of bread is not sufficient for them, that every one of them may take a little.
8 One of his disciples, Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother, saith unto him,
9 There is a lad here, which hath five barley loaves, and two small fishes: but what are they among so many?
10 And Jesus said, Make the men sit down. Now there was much grass in the place. So the men sat down, in number about five thousand.

11 And Jesus took the loaves; and when he had given thanks, he distributed to the disciples, and the disciples to them that were set down; and likewise of the fishes as much as they would.
12 When they were filled, he said unto his disciples, Gather up the fragments that remain, that nothing be lost.
13 Therefore they gathered them together, and filled twelve baskets with the fragments of the five barley loaves, which remained over and above unto them that had eaten.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 17 JULY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE

James 4:2 reveals why some Christians still suffer from lack. Do you know that if you ask God to end lack in your life, He will grant your request? In today’s Bible reading, Jesus fed thousands of people with five loaves of bread and two fishes. By the time everybody had been fed, they still had 12 baskets extra. When God provides for your needs, He gives you more than enough to satisfy you. Your big request is a little thing for Him to fulfil.

Years ago, I travelled to London on an official assignment, and three days before my return, I had run out of money and needed £50 to buy some books and tapes. I turned to God, “Daddy, it would be good if I could get £50.” 

Shortly after, my phone rang. The fellow on the line said, “Biyi?” I told him there was nobody with that name where I was, and as we talked, he got to know who I was. Excitedly, he called out to his brother, telling him that he was speaking with me. Apparently, they had been discussing how they could see me, and now, I was on the phone with them. 

Eventually, they came over, we talked, and as they were leaving, they gave me £50. Immediately they left, I said, “Daddy, if I knew it would be this easy, I would’ve asked for £100.” 

As I rejoiced over the £50, the doorbell rang, but before l got to the door, an envelope had been slipped under the door. I opened it and realised it came from a wealthy man who had never given me a dime before. Inside was £50 and a note saying, “I just felt like giving you some money.” Then, I told God that if I had known that another £50 would come, I would have asked for an extra £50.

That night, before I slept, someone gave me another £50! I became afraid and told God that I was only joking and didn’t want to offend Him. God reminded me of this incident recently and told me l had been foolish. “If you asked Me for £50 and I provided it, why didn’t you ask for £5,000?”

Beloved, find out God’s will concerning your needs and ensure your requests are in alignment with it. Stop complaining about lack in your life; rather, ask God to meet your exact needs. Do not waver in faith, and He will surely answer you.

OPEN HEAVEN 17 JULY 2025 ACTION POINT

Ask God to provide your needs according to His will, and believe that He is able to fulfil them.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Isaiah 9-11

HYMN 27: WHAT A FRIEND WE HAVE IN JESUS

OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 17 JULY 2025 COMMENTARY

MEMORISE: John 16:24

“Hitherto have ye asked nothing in My name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full.”

This powerful promise from Jesus establishes a divine principle: God wants us to ask boldly in faith, aligning our requests with His will so He can fill our lives with overflowing provision and joy.

BIBLE READING: John 6:5-13

The miracle of the five loaves and two fish demonstrates God’s supernatural multiplication when we surrender what we have to Him. Key lessons:

• v. 9: The boy’s small offering became the catalyst for a miracle.
• v. 13: God’s provision exceeded the need (12 baskets leftover).

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Breaking the Spirit of Lack Through Bold Asking

Pastor E.A. Adeboye’s testimony of receiving triple £50 miracles in London reveals profound truths about God’s willingness to provide abundantly.

1. Why Believers Still Experience Lack (James 4:2-3)

• You Have Not, Because You Ask Not
  • Many suffer needlessly due to unasked prayers (Matthew 7:7-8).
  • Like Adeboye’s initial £50 request, we often under-ask out of small thinking.
• Asking Amiss
  • Some pray outside God’s will (e.g., greedy motives—Proverbs 10:22).

2. God’s Provision Principle: “More Than Enough”

• The 12-Basket Overflow (John 6:13):
  • God doesn’t just meet needs—He exceeds them (Ephesians 3:20).
• The £50 Triplication:
  • Adeboye’s story shows God releases multiple streams when we ask in faith.

3. How to Activate Divine Supply

1. Ask Specifically (Mark 10:51)
   • Jesus asked Bartimaeus, “What do you want Me to do?” Name your need.
2. Ask in Alignment with God’s Will (1 John 5:14-15)
   • Study Scripture to know what God promises (e.g., Philippians 4:19).
3. Ask Without Doubt (James 1:6-7)
   • Adeboye’s hesitation to ask for £5,000 revealed unnecessary self-limitation.
4. Surrender What You Have (John 6:9)
   • Like the boy’s loaves, give God your “little” to multiply.

4. The Danger of Complaining vs. Asking

• Israel in the Wilderness (Numbers 11:1-6):
  • Complaining delayed provision; faith activates it.
• Modern Application:
  • Replace “God, why am I broke?” with “Father, supply £X for [specific need].”

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Why We Under-Ask

1. False Humility – Thinking big requests are “greedy.”
2. Small Faith – Underestimating God’s power (Matthew 17:20).
3. Ignorance of Promises – Not knowing Psalm 84:11, 2 Corinthians 9:8, etc.

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Steps to Break Free from Lack

1. Audit Your Prayers
   • Are they specific and bold or vague and timid?
2. Study God’s Provision Promises
   • Meditate on Jeremiah 29:11, Malachi 3:10, Luke 6:38.
3. Activate Faith with Action
   • Like the widow gathering vessels (2 Kings 4:3), prepare for overflow.

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Conclusion: Your Father Wants to Give

Ask yourself:

• “What have I been afraid to ask God for?”
• “Do I truly believe no request is too big for Him?”

Prayer:
“Father, forgive me for thinking small. Today, I ask boldly for [specific need], trusting Your promise to supply all my needs according to Your riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). In Jesus’ name, Amen!”

Remember: God is not offended by big requests—He’s offended by faithless silence. Ask, believe, and watch Him exceed your expectations!

“Give, and it shall be given unto you… pressed down, shaken together, and running over.” (Luke 6:38).

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The Open Heaven 16 July 2025 devotional for today is OBEY GOD’S INSTRUCTIONS.

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

• Read: RCCG Open Heaven 15 July 2025 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVEN 16 JULY 2025 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: OBEY GOD’S INSTRUCTIONS

MEMORISE:
Receive my instruction, and not silver; a n d knowledge rather than choice gold.
Proverbs 8:10

READ: 2 Kings 5:1-14

1 Now Naaman, captain of the host of the king of Syria, was a great man with his master, and honourable, because by him the Lord had given deliverance unto Syria: he was also a mighty man in valour, but he was a leper.
2 And the Syrians had gone out by companies, and had brought away captive out of the land of Israel a little maid; and she waited on Naaman’s wife.
3 And she said unto her mistress, Would God my lord were with the prophet that is in Samaria! for he would recover him of his leprosy.
4 And one went in, and told his lord, saying, Thus and thus said the maid that is of the land of Israel.
5 And the king of Syria said, Go to, go, and I will send a letter unto the king of Israel. And he departed, and took with him ten talents of silver, and six thousand pieces of gold, and ten changes of raiment.

6 And he brought the letter to the king of Israel, saying, Now when this letter is come unto thee, behold, I have therewith sent Naaman my servant to thee, that thou mayest recover him of his leprosy.
7 And it came to pass, when the king of Israel had read the letter, that he rent his clothes, and said, Am I God, to kill and to make alive, that this man doth send unto me to recover a man of his leprosy? wherefore consider, I pray you, and see how he seeketh a quarrel against me.
8 And it was so, when Elisha the man of God had heard that the king of Israel had rent his clothes, that he sent to the king, saying, Wherefore hast thou rent thy clothes? let him come now to me, and he shall know that there is a prophet in Israel.
9 So Naaman came with his horses and with his chariot, and stood at the door of the house of Elisha.
10 And Elisha sent a messenger unto him, saying, Go and wash in Jordan seven times, and thy flesh shall come again to thee, and thou shalt be clean.

11 But Naaman was wroth, and went away, and said, Behold, I thought, He will surely come out to me, and stand, and call on the name of the Lord his God, and strike his hand over the place, and recover the leper.
12 Are not Abana and Pharpar, rivers of Damascus, better than all the waters of Israel? may I not wash in them, and be clean? So he turned and went away in a rage.
13 And his servants came near, and spake unto him, and said, My father, if the prophet had bid thee do some great thing, wouldest thou not have done it? how much rather then, when he saith to thee, Wash, and be clean?
14 Then went he down, and dipped himself seven times in Jordan, according to the saying of the man of God: and his flesh came again like unto the flesh of a little child, and he was clean.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 16 JULY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE

In 2 Kings 4:1-7, the widow of one of the sons of the prophets was in debt, and the creditors told her that they would take her children as slaves if she failed to pay the debt. She ran to Elisha for help, and the man of God gave her instructions that seemed foolish. 

He told her to borrow many empty vessels from her neighbours and pour from the little bottle of oil she had into them. Miraculously, all the empty vessels were filled with oil. A lot of times, God’s instructions might seem not to make sense, but if you can just obey Him, you will experience a miracle.

Many years ago, the General Superintendent of the RCCG, my Father in the Lord, Pa Josiah Akindayomi, told all the church workers at a meeting that the church had a great need that must be met by the following week. He added that all the workers should close their accounts and bring the money in them to church the next Sunday. My wife and I obeyed; we closed our savings accounts and took the money to church. 

The following Sunday, Papa said that the need had been met and asked how many people had closed their accounts. I and my wife raised our hands, but when I looked around, no other hands were raised. 

I began to think to myself, “It seems I have run mad in the name of religion,” then I heard God say, “Son, you are not mad; I am setting you up so that when I take you to the height I plan to take you, nobody will be able to accuse me of being partial.” It is usually not convenient to obey God’s instructions. However, if you dare to obey, you will enjoy unusual results.

In today’s Bible reading, Naaman, the Syrian, went to Elisha expecting a miracle. He expected the prophet to come outside and lay hands on him, but Elisha sent a messenger to him with a simple instruction: go to River Jordan and bathe seven times. 

As long as he kept arguing with that instruction, he remained a leper. However, the moment he obeyed the instruction, he was healed, and his flesh became like that of a little child.

Beloved, God is always willing to give you a miracle, but you must obey His instructions even when they seem foolish.

OPEN HEAVEN 16 JULY 2025 KEY POINT

Obedience to God’s instructions births tremendous miracles and breakthroughs.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Isaiah 4-8

HYMN 30: WHEN WE WALK WITH THE LORD

OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 16 JULY 2025 COMMENTARY

MEMORISE: Proverbs 8:10

“Receive my instruction, and not silver; and knowledge rather than choice gold.”

This verse elevates divine wisdom above material wealth. It reminds us that obedience to God’s instructions—no matter how unconventional—yields greater rewards than human reasoning or resources ever could.

BIBLE READING: 2 Kings 5:1-14

The story of Naaman’s healing reveals a profound truth: miracles follow obedience, not expectations. Though Naaman expected a dramatic prophetic gesture (v. 11), his breakthrough came through humbling himself to dip seven times in the Jordan River (v. 14).

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The Power of Obedience to Divine Instructions

The devotional presents two key stories (the widow’s oil and Pastor Adeboye’s financial surrender) to teach that God’s methods often defy human logic but always produce supernatural results.

1. When God’s Instructions Seem Foolish

• The Widow’s Oil (2 Kings 4:1-7):
  • Human Perspective: “How can one bottle fill many vessels?”
  • Divine Reality: Her obedience activated multiplication (Luke 6:38).
• Naaman’s Healing (2 Kings 5:10-14):
  • Human Perspective: “Why Jordan River? Why seven dips?”
  • Divine Reality: His submission broke pride and released healing.

2. Obedience Requires Sacrifice

• Pastor Adeboye’s Testimony:
  • Closing his savings account seemed irrational, but it:
    1. Proved his trust in God over money (Matthew 6:24).
    2. Positioned him for future favor (Luke 16:10-12).
  • Key Lesson: God often tests our willingness to surrender what we cherish (Genesis 22:12).

3. Why God Uses Unconventional Methods

• To Humble Human Pride (1 Corinthians 1:27-29):
  • Naaman’s healing required him to abandon his status (v. 11-13).
• To Test Faith (Hebrews 11:6):
  • The widow had to borrow vessels before seeing oil flow (2 Kings 4:3).
• To Remove Dependence on People:
  • Elisha didn’t even meet Naaman face-to-face—God alone got the glory.

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How to Respond to God’s “Foolish” Instructions

1. Suspend Human Logic (Isaiah 55:8-9):
   • Ask: “Is this instruction aligned with Scripture?” If yes, obey without debate.
2. Act Immediately (James 1:22):
   • Delayed obedience = disobedience (Jonah 1:1-3).
3. Expect Resistance (John 15:18-20):
   • Like Pastor Adeboye, you may be the only one obeying—stand firm.
4. Focus on the Promise (Hebrews 10:36):
   • Naaman’s seventh dip brought healing—persist to completion.

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Warning: The Cost of Disobedience

• Naaman Almost Missed His Miracle (2 Kings 5:11-12):
  • His initial refusal kept him in leprosy.
• Many Workers Kept Their Accounts (Pastor Adeboye’s Story):
  • Their partial obedience cost them divine positioning.

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Conclusion: Dare to Obey

Ask yourself:

• “What ‘foolish’ instruction has God given me that I’ve delayed obeying?”
• “Am I trying to edit God’s commands to fit my comfort?”

Prayer:
“Lord, give me the courage to obey You completely, even when it doesn’t make sense. Let my surrender become the gateway for Your miracles, in Jesus’ name!”

Remember: Unusual obedience triggers unusual breakthroughs. Your Jordan River moment is waiting—will you dip seven times?

“Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice…” (1 Samuel 15:22).

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The Open Heaven 15 July 2025 devotional for today is THE FRAGRANCE OF FAVOUR.

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

• Read: RCCG Open Heaven 14 July 2025 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVEN 15 JULY 2025 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: THE FRAGRANCE OF FAVOUR

MEMORISE:
In the light of the king’s countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain.
Proverbs 16:15

READ: Psalms 44:1-3

1 We have heard with our ears, O God, our fathers have told us, what work thou didst in their days, in the times of old.
2 How thou didst drive out the heathen with thy hand, and plantedst them; how thou didst afflict the people, and cast them out.
3 For they got not the land in possession by their own sword, neither did their own arm save them: but thy right hand, and thine arm, and the light of thy countenance, because thou hadst a favour unto them.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 15 JULY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE

In Numbers 6:22-27, God commanded the priests to bless the Israelites and declare that His face will shine upon them. When God’s face shines on you, you will receive a fragrance of His favour that will ensure that everywhere you go, people will find themselves showing you favour without knowing why.

In 1976, while I was a young lecturer, I attended a global conference of Applied

Mathematicians in Canada as one of two delegates from Nigeria. At that time, I had only written 12 academic papers. In contrast, the man who gave the opening speech at the conference had published 150 papers! He spoke about the mathematics of the rain – I had never heard anything like that before. 

I looked around and asked, “God, what am I doing here?” I was supposed to present my paper the next day, so I prayed to God all night that He should glorify His name in my life during my presentation. I also prayed that the man wouldn’t attend my presentation because he was probably going to think to himself, “Who brought this idiot here?”

The time for my presentation came, and behold, the man was sitting right in front of me! However, when I finished presenting my paper, he stood up and began to clap. When everybody saw him clapping, they got up and began to clap too.

My paper was not as special as the other papers that had been presented, but God had put His fragrance of favour on me.

When God puts His favour upon you, things will work effortlessly in your favour. When He put His favour on the Israelites, the Egyptians, who had tormented and tortured them for four hundred and thirty years, gave them everything they asked for.

And the LORD gave the people favour in the sight of the Egyptians, so that they lent unto them such things as they required. And they spoiled the Egyptians. Exodus 12:36

God’s favour on a man will make even those who hate him to do everything to bless him. They will not understand why they are going the extra mile to give him all he needs. God’s favour on Esther made everyone who looked at her to accept her immediately. It also made the king choose her out of the many other damsels (Esther 2:15-17). When God lifts His countenance upon a fellow, that person becomes attractive to everyone who looks at him or her. I pray that God will lift His countenance upon you, in Jesus’ name.

OPEN HEAVEN 15 JULY 2025 KEY POINT

Father, please let the fragrance of Your favour rest on me and my family always, in Jesus’ name.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Isaiah 1-3

HYMN 8: I Need Thee Every Hour

OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 15 JULY 2025 COMMENTARY

MEMORISE: Proverbs 16:15

“In the light of the king’s countenance is life; and his favour is as a cloud of the latter rain.”

This verse poetically captures the transformative power of divine favor—it brings life, refreshment, and supernatural opportunities, just as the latter rain revives parched land.

BIBLE READING: Psalms 44:1-3

“O God… Thou didst drive out the heathen with Thy hand… for they got not the land in possession by their own sword… but Thy right hand, and Thine arm, and the light of Thy countenance.”

The psalmist acknowledges: Israel’s victories came through God’s favor, not human effort.

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The Supernatural Nature of Divine Favor

Pastor E.A. Adeboye’s testimony in Canada illustrates how God’s favor operates beyond human qualifications. Here’s a detailed breakdown:

1. What Divine Favor Looks Like

• Undeserved Acceptance (Exodus 12:36):
  • Egyptians hated Israelites yet gave them wealth at their departure.
• Uncommon Recognition (Esther 2:15-17):
  • Esther stood out without manipulation—just God’s favor.
• Irrational Favor (Proverbs 16:7):
  • Like Adeboye’s academic paper, ordinary efforts yield extraordinary results when God shines on them.

2. How to Attract Divine Favor

• Seek God’s Face, Not Just His Hand (Numbers 6:25-26):
  • The priestly blessing shows favor flows from relationship, not rituals.
• Pray for God’s Glory, Not Self-Promotion:
  • Adeboye prayed, “Glorify Your name in my life”—not “Make me look smart.”
• Walk in Obedience (Deuteronomy 28:1-2):
  • Favor follows those who align with God’s Word.

3. Favor vs. Human Effort

• Natural Limitations:
  • Adeboye’s 12 papers vs. the expert’s 150 papers—yet God leveled the field.
• Divine Acceleration:
  • Like Joseph (Genesis 39:21), favor can fast-track you past competitors.

4. The “Fragrance” of Favor

• Invisible but Impactful:
  • Just as perfume draws attention, divine favor makes you magnetic to blessings (Esther 2:9).
• Manifestations:
  1. Favor with enemies (Proverbs 16:7).
  2. Favor in crises (Daniel 1:9).
  3. Favor with authorities (Nehemiah 2:5-6).

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Caution: Misconceptions About Favor

• Not a Replacement for Diligence (Proverbs 22:29):
  • Adeboye prepared his paper before favor amplified it.
• Not a License for Pride (James 4:6):
  • Favor humbles us to say, “God did this” (1 Corinthians 15:10).

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Activating Favor in Your Life

1. Daily Surrender (Psalm 90:17):
   • Pray: “Let the beauty of the Lord my God be upon me.”
2. Serve Others (Luke 2:52):
   • Jesus grew in favor with God and man through servanthood.
3. Expect God’s Intervention:
   • Like Adeboye, approach challenges with faith in God’s reputation.

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Conclusion: Live Under God’s Smile

Ask yourself:

• “Do I rely more on my credentials or Christ’s favor?”
• “How can I seek God’s face rather than just His blessings?”

Prayer:
“Father, lift Your countenance upon me. Let Your favor open doors no man can shut, in Jesus’ name!”

Divine favor is God’s signature on your life—it turns ordinary steps into supernatural breakthroughs. Walk in it today!

“For Thou, LORD, wilt bless the righteous; with favour wilt Thou compass him as with a shield.” (Psalm 5:12).

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The Open Heaven 14 July 2025 devotional for today is HELPMEET INDEED 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 Heaven 13 July 2025 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVEN 14 JULY 2025 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: HELPMEET INDEED II

MEMORISE
And the LORD God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.
Genesis 2:18

READ: Proverbs 19:13-14

13 A foolish son is the calamity of his father: and the contentions of a wife are a continual dropping.
14 House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife is from the Lord.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 14 JULY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE

A true helpmeet stays with her husband through thick and thin; she doesn’t shy away when things are tough. I have been married for 57 years, and sometimes, it feels like my wife and I are still on honeymoon. I was the poorest among those wooing her before we got married, but I told her that if she married me, everything I would ever have and become would be hers. When we first got married, during our meals, we would playfully struggle over one piece of ponmo, but today, even if we want to eat a whole cow, we can do so because God has truly blessed us.

When things are tough, a true helpmeet encourages her husband; she supports him without making him feel less about himself.

She does not help him and then turn around to say, “You see what I did for you? Now you owe me so and so.” It is a thing of joy for a true helpmeet to see opportunities to help her husband and then go ahead to help.

A helpmeet indeed is known during times when her husband is going through challenges. Years ago, I decided to fast because I was facing some serious challenges. I fasted for 40 days and nights, and because my wife knew that it wouldn’t be easy for me to concentrate on my fast if she didn’t join me, she fasted as well.

After fasting and praying for 40 days and nights, the challenges remained, so l decided to go on another fast for 40 days and nights.

Again, she joined in the fast. After the second round of fasting, the challenges remained, so l decided to go again. This time, I planned to fast until God answered me. I didn’t want my wife to go all the way with me, so we agreed that if after 40 days, the challenge remained, I would continue fasting, and she would stop.

After 40 days and nights elapsed, she refused to stop. When I saw that she wasn’t going to stop, I told God, “I cannot bear to lose my wife.

Whenever You want, You can solve this problem, but I have to stop fasting now.” She only stopped fasting when I stopped, and of course, God proved Himself faithful.

If you are a married woman, try as much as God helps you to help your husband resolve his challenges. A true helpmeet is her husband’s greatest ally, not his greatest headache in the midst of life’s challenges.

OPEN HEAVEN 14 JULY 2025 KEY POINT

A true helpmeet is her husband’s greatest ally. She stands by him through thick and thin.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Song of Solomon 5-8

HYMN 29: WHEN PEACE LIKE A RIVER ATTENDETH MY WAY

OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 14 JULY 2025 COMMENTARY

MEMORISE: Genesis 2:18

“And the Lord God said, It is not good that the man should be alone; I will make him an help meet for him.”

This foundational scripture reveals God’s intentional design for marriage—a wife is created as a strategic ally, not just a companion. The term “help meet” (Hebrew: ezer kenegdo) means a strong helper who complements her husband’s purpose.

BIBLE READING: Proverbs 19:13-14

“A foolish son is the calamity of his father: and the contentions of a wife are a continual dropping. House and riches are the inheritance of fathers: and a prudent wife is from the Lord.”

This passage contrasts two types of wives:

• The contentious wife (v.13) wears down her husband like a leaky roof.
• The prudent wife (v.14) is a divine gift who builds her home.

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The Marks of a True Helpmeet

Pastor E.A. Adeboye’s personal testimony illustrates God’s blueprint for marital partnership through seasons of lack and abundance. Here’s a breakdown of the key principles:

1. Unwavering Loyalty in Adversity

• The “Ponmo to Cow” Journey:
  • From struggling over scraps to abundance, his wife’s loyalty never wavered.
  • Like Ruth, she declared, “Where you go, I will go” (Ruth 1:16), embracing his destiny as hers.
• Modern Application:
  • A helpmeet doesn’t threaten to leave during financial crises or shame her husband for setbacks.

2. Sacrificial Support Without Strings Attached

• The 120-Day Fast:
  • She joined his spiritual battles without resentment, even when answers were delayed.
  • Unlike Job’s wife (Job 2:9), she didn’t say, “Curse God and quit” but fasted until breakthrough came.
• Key Lesson:
  • True helpmeets give without keeping score (1 Corinthians 13:5).

3. Encouragement, Not Condemnation

• Proverbs 31:26 – “She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.”
  • A prudent wife speaks life to her husband’s dreams (e.g., “We can do this” vs. “You’ll never succeed”).
• Caution:
  • The contentious wife in Proverbs 19:13 erodes her husband’s confidence with constant criticism.

4. Partnership in Spiritual Warfare

• Matthew 18:19 – “If two of you shall agree… it shall be done.”
  • The Adeboyes’ united fasting exemplifies spiritual synergy.
  • A helpmeet who prays with/for her husband invites God’s intervention into their marriage.

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How to Become/Identify a True Helpmeet

For Wives:

1. Pray for your husband daily—cover his weaknesses, health, and vision.
2. Refuse to compare him to others (2 Corinthians 10:12).
3. Celebrate small wins—be his “cheerleader in chief.”

For Husbands:

1. Cherish her sacrifice (1 Peter 3:7)—honor her as “heirs together of the grace of life.”
2. Lead spiritually—initiate prayer, fasting, and Bible study together.
3. Protect her heart—never exploit her loyalty.

For Singles:

• Wait for a partner who embodies Proverbs 31/19:14 traits, not just physical attraction.

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Conclusion: Marriage as a Divine Covenant

Ask yourself:

• “Am I building my spouse up or tearing them down?”
• “Do I see my role in marriage as a sacred assignment from God?”

Action Step:

• This week, write your spouse a note thanking them for one way they’ve been a “help meet” to you.

A godly marriage isn’t about perfect people but selfless partnership. When both spouses submit to God’s design, their union becomes a taste of heaven on earth.

“Two are better than one… for if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow.” (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10).

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Download Open Heaven 14 July 2025 Devotional PDF

The Open Heaven 13 July 2025 devotional for today is HELPMEET INDEED 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 Heaven 12 July 2025 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVEN 13 JULY 2025 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: HELPMEET INDEED I

MEMORISE

The hear t of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
Proverbs 31:11

READ: Proverbs 31:10-31

10 Who can find a virtuous woman? for her price is far above rubies.
11 The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.
12 She will do him good and not evil all the days of her life.
13 She seeketh wool, and flax, and worketh willingly with her hands.
14 She is like the merchants’ ships; she bringeth her food from afar.
15 She riseth also while it is yet night, and giveth meat to her household, and a portion to her maidens.

16 She considereth a field, and buyeth it: with the fruit of her hands she planteth a vineyard.
17 She girdeth her loins with strength, and strengtheneth her arms.
18 She perceiveth that her merchandise is good: her candle goeth not out by night.
19 She layeth her hands to the spindle, and her hands hold the distaff.
20 She stretcheth out her hand to the poor; yea, she reacheth forth her hands to the needy.

21 She is not afraid of the snow for her household: for all her household are clothed with scarlet.
22 She maketh herself coverings of tapestry; her clothing is silk and purple.
23 Her husband is known in the gates, when he sitteth among the elders of the land.
24 She maketh fine linen, and selleth it; and delivereth girdles unto the merchant.
25 Strength and honour are her clothing; and she shall rejoice in time to come.

26 She openeth her mouth with wisdom; and in her tongue is the law of kindness.
27 She looketh well to the ways of her household, and eateth not the bread of idleness.
28 Her children arise up, and call her blessed; her husband also, and he praiseth her.
29 Many daughters have done virtuously, but thou excellest them all.
30 Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the Lord, she shall be praised.
31 Give her of the fruit of her hands; and let her own works praise her in the gates.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 13 JULY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE

A helpmeet is a wife who complements and supports her husband to fulfil God’s purpose for their lives even when it is not convenient.

God ordained marriage as an institution where a wife helps her husband instead of competing with him, as the world paints it today. Just as the individuals in a team cannot compete against their teammates and expect to win, couples who compete against each other should not expect a successful marriage. A house divided against itself cannot stand (Mark 3:25). A husband and his wife are one and should work together as a team to achieve success in their marriage and in life (Mark 10:7-8).

Some highly successful women have allowed pride into their hearts such that they stop submitting to their husbands. Up until today, my wife cooks my meals. When the situation permits, she irons my clothes, and I iron hers too. When I was a teacher, and we were living in a remote location, she used to cut my hair.

Just like the virtuous woman’s husband in today’s Bible reading, my heart safely trusts in her. She is never too busy to help me, and she upholds anything I uphold.

I remember when we were building the Mount Carmel Prayer Village. It was a massive project, but I went there only thrice – the day the foundation laying ceremony was done, the day I decided to take my grandchildren there, and the day the completed project was dedicated. Throughout the duration of the construction, my wife supervised the project diligently – that is a helpmeet indeed!

She is always willing to go through the necessary rigours to see that l achieve my goal. She has stood by me through thick and thin, which is why she has full access to everything God blesses me with. When a responsible man has a true helpmeet as a wife, he’ll go the extra mile to protect her and make her comfortable and happy. I often say that a fellow can slap me, and I’ll turn the other cheek, but if anyone touches my wife, such a fellow will have my God, the Consuming Fire, to contend with.

As a wife, can your husband rely on you? You must be able to make up for his weaknesses, celebrate his successes, and be his number one cheerleader. If you are a man that has a helpmeet indeed by his side, you must nourish and cherish her. She is a priceless gem and must be treated as one.

OPEN HEAVEN 13 JULY 2025 PRAYER POINT

Today is my wife’s birthday, please join me to pray that the Lord will continue to strengthen and uphold her.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Song of Solomon 1-4

HYMN 59: I WANT TO BE LIKE JESUS

OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 13 JULY 2025 COMMENTARY

MEMORISE: Proverbs 31:11

“The heart of her husband doth safely trust in her, so that he shall have no need of spoil.”

This verse encapsulates the essence of a godly wife—a woman whose character and commitment make her husband’s life secure, prosperous, and peaceful. Her support is so complete that he lacks nothing of value.

BIBLE READING: Proverbs 31:10-31

This passage paints a portrait of the “virtuous woman”—not a perfect woman, but one whose fear of God (v. 30) fuels her strength, wisdom, and sacrificial love for her family.

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The Biblical Blueprint for Marriage: Partnership, Not Competition

The devotional, using Pastor E.A. Adeboye’s personal testimony, highlights God’s design for marriage as a sacred alliance. Here’s a breakdown of its key lessons:

1. A Helpmeet’s Role: Strength in Submission

• Genesis 2:18 – God created the wife as an “help meet” (Hebrew: ezer kenegdo—a “strong helper corresponding to him”).
  • This is not inferiority but strategic partnership (like a left hand working with the right).
• Modern Distortion vs. God’s Design:
  • The world frames marriage as a power struggle, but Scripture calls it a divine team (Mark 10:7-8).
  • Example:
    • Pastor Adeboye’s wife didn’t see cooking or ironing as “beneath her”—she served as Christ served (John 13:14-15).

2. The Power of Trust (Proverbs 31:11)

• A husband’s “safe trust” in his wife means:
  1. Reliability – She follows through (like supervising the Mount Carmel project).
  2. Loyalty – She stands “through thick and thin.”
  3. Discretion – She guards his heart and reputation.
• Result: The home becomes a haven, not a battleground.

3. Mutual Responsibilities

• For Wives:
  • Complement, don’t compete (Ephesians 5:22-24).
  • Strengthen his weaknesses (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12).
• For Husbands:
  • Cherish and nourish your wife (Ephesians 5:28-29).
  • Protect her fiercely (as Pastor Adeboye noted—God defends those who harm her).

4. Pride vs. Partnership

• The devotional warns against pride in successful women that breeds disrespect.
  • 1 Peter 3:1-6 – A wife’s gentle and quiet spirit wins influence.
  • Example:
    • Sarah called Abraham “lord” (1 Peter 3:6), yet her legacy shaped nations.

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Practical Steps to Build a Proverbs 31 Marriage

1. Wives:
   • Ask: “How can I ease my husband’s burdens today?”
   • Study his love language and speak it daily.
2. Husbands:
   • Verbally affirm your wife’s value (Proverbs 31:28).
   • Share domestic responsibilities (e.g., Pastor Adeboye ironing clothes).
3. Both:
   • Pray together—a couple that prays together stays united against storms.
   • Reject worldly models of marriage; cling to God’s design.

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Conclusion: Marriage as a Ministry

Ask yourself:

• “Does my spouse safely trust me? Why or why not?”
• “Am I building up or tearing down our God-given partnership?”

Action Step:

• This week, perform one act of service for your spouse without expecting acknowledgment.

A Christ-centered marriage isn’t about roles but love in action. When both partners serve as Jesus did, their union becomes a testimony of God’s wisdom to the world.

“Whoso findeth a wife findeth a good thing, and obtaineth favour of the Lord.” (Proverbs 18:22).

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Download Open Heaven 13 July 2025 Devotional PDF

The Open Heaven 12 July 2025 devotional for today is A SIMPLE PRAYER.

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

• Read: RCCG Open Heaven 11 July 2025 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVEN 12 JULY 2025 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: A SIMPLE PRAYER

MEMORISE:
And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.
Mark 1:35

READ: James 5:16-18

16 Confess your faults one to another, and pray one for another, that ye may be healed. The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.
17 Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly that it might not rain: and it rained not on the earth by the space of three years and six months.
18 And he prayed again, and the heaven gave rain, and the earth brought forth her fruit.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 12 JULY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE

Some years ago, a man’s wife ran mad, and she was taken to a herbalist for treatment.

After being with the herbalist for so long, she didn’t get any better; rather, she only grew worse.

Somebody told me about the situation, and I decided to go and pray for the woman. When I got there, I said a simple prayer and left. 

After I left, some people contacted her husband and said, “This man came and prayed for only two minutes. Two minutes of prayer for this kind of problem?!” Since they didn’t believe that the prayer worked, they decided to take her to a psychiatric hospital. When they got there, the specialist said, “Let us observe this woman for a while so we can know the type of medication to administer to her.”

After two weeks, the specialist sent for her husband and told him, “If you say there is something wrong with this woman, then there must be something wrong with you.” With no medication and just a simple prayer, she was healed completely.

In 1 Kings 18:36-38, Elijah’s prayer that brought down fire must have just been for a few minutes. When ministers of God say simple prayers and great miracles happen, it is because they have spent hours with God in secret. 

When Jesus walked on the earth, He only had to speak once for every miracle He performed to happen. However, the Bible records in many instances that He would retreat from His disciples and other people to go to a solitary place to pray, just as we see in today’s memory verse. This is the secret to simple prayers that carry so much power.

Every time Elijah prayed in the Bible, his prayers were short and very effective. In 2

Kings 1:9-12, when he decreed that fire should fall from heaven and consume the two captains and the soldiers they were in charge of, it was with a few words, “If I be a man of God, let fire come down from heaven and consume thee and thy fifty.”

Today’s Bible reading tells us the secret behind those simple but powerful decrees – Elijah was a man like us who prayed earnestly and fervently, and God answered him (James 5:17). If you want to pray simple but powerful prayers in public, you must labour fervently and earnestly in prayers in the secret place. Profound public results are only birthed by intense secret sacrifices.

OPEN HEAVEN 12 JULY 2025 KEY POINT

The simple but powerful prayers that birth great miracles result from intense fellowship with God in secret.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Ecclesiastes 9-12

HYMN 22: SWEET HOUR OF PRAYER

OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 12 JULY 2025 COMMENTARY

MEMORISE: Mark 1:35

“And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, He went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.”

This verse reveals Jesus’ secret to powerful ministry—private prayer precedes public miracles. The devotional builds on this truth: Short, powerful public prayers are born from long, fervent private communion with God.

BIBLE READING: James 5:16-18

“The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much. Elias was a man subject to like passions as we are, and he prayed earnestly…”

James highlights Elijah’s example to prove that ordinary people can pray extraordinary prayers when they seek God diligently.

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The Secret Behind Powerful Short Prayers

The devotional uses two key stories to teach that brief public miracles flow from extended private prayer:

1. The Mad Woman’s Instant Healing

• The Scenario:
  • A woman’s mental illness resisted herbalists and psychiatrists.
  • A two-minute prayer from a man of God brought total healing.
• The Lesson:
  • The miracle wasn’t in the length of the public prayer but in the depth of the minister’s private prayer life.
  • Like Jesus in Mark 1:35, this minister had already “paid the price” in secret.

2. Elijah’s Fire from Heaven (1 Kings 18:36-38)

• The Prayer: Just one sentence (v. 36-37), yet fire fell.
• The Preparation:
  • Elijah’s public power came from years of obedience (1 Kings 17) and solitary faith (1 Kings 19).
  • James 5:17 confirms: He “prayed earnestly” (Greek: proseuchomai + proseuche—a prayer poured out with intensity).

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Why Short Prayers Sometimes Work Best

1. They Reflect Already-Settled Faith
   • Jesus taught, “When you pray, believe you receive” (Mark 11:24). Long public prayers can sometimes mask unbelief.
2. They Showcase God’s Power, Not Human Eloquence
   • 1 Corinthians 2:4-5 – Paul relied on God’s power, not “enticing words.”
3. They Follow Jesus’ Model
   • Most of Jesus’ miracle prayers were brief commands (e.g., “Lazarus, come forth!”—John 11:43).

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How to Develop a Prayer Life That Releases Power

1. Prioritize Secret Prayer (Matthew 6:6)
   • Start with 30 minutes daily of undistracted communion.
2. Pray Scripture Back to God
   • Elijah’s prayer in 1 Kings 18:36 quoted God’s covenant promises.
3. Fast Regularly
   • Jesus linked certain breakthroughs to fasting (Matthew 17:21).
4. Obey Promptly
   • Elijah’s power flowed from implicit obedience (1 Kings 17:5).

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Warning: Don’t Misuse This Principle

• Not an Excuse for Lazy Prayer:
  • The “short prayer” works only if backed by a disciplined private life.
• Not a Formula:
  • God answers faith, not brevity (Matthew 15:22-28—the Syrophoenician woman’s persistent prayer was honored).

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Conclusion: Your Private Prayer Determines Your Public Power

Ask yourself:

• “Do I spend more time praying in public than in secret?”
• “Is my prayer life deep enough to sustain sudden miracles?”

Action Step:

• This week, add 15 minutes to your private prayer time before expecting public results.

Remember: Short prayers work when long prayers have already worked in you.

“But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet… and thy Father which seeth in secret shall reward thee openly.” (Matthew 6:6).

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The Open Heaven 10 July 2025 devotional for today is AVOID GLUTTONY.

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

• Read: RCCG Open Heaven 9 July 2025 Devotional

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OPEN HEAVEN 10 JULY 2025 TODAY DEVOTIONAL

TOPIC: AVOID GLUTTONY

MEMORISE:
For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.
Proverbs 23:21

READ: Romans 6: 12-14

12 Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof.
13 Neither yield ye your members as instruments of unrighteousness unto sin: but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead, and your members as instruments of righteousness unto God.
14 For sin shall not have dominion over you: for ye are not under the law, but under grace.

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RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 10 JULY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE

Gluttons are people who love food and are enslaved to overeating such that they become the devil’s prey. In Christianity, a fellow is either a soldier for Christ or prey to the devil.

The flesh and the spirit are constantly at war (Galatians 5:17), and only soldiers – those who live a life of discipline – can win.

Therefore, as a Christian, you should always be spiritually alert; if you’re a glutton, you’ll likely be spiritually dead because you’ll find it difficult to discipline yourself to fast. In Matthew 6:16, Jesus said, ” …when ye fast..” He said ‘when’, not ‘if’, implying that every Christian is expected to fast. Also, there is a level of spiritual authority that can only be attained when fasting is added to prayer (Matthew 17:14-21).

Apart from the spiritual dangers of gluttony, gluttons also endanger their physical health.

Proverbs 23:2 says that those who are controlled by their appetites should put a knife to their throats because they are trying to kill themselves.

God didn’t design your body to eat too much food. You shouldn’t eat until your stomach is overly filled. Overeating makes you weak and gives your body extra work in digesting the excess food.

Years ago, some scientists performed an experiment with two groups of rats. They fed the first group excessively, and before long, they became very fat. They fed the second group with just the right amount of food they required. After a while, they injected both groups of rats with a disease. All the overfed rats died, while the rats in the second group survived. Your body is stronger and can fight diseases better when you eat moderately and correctly.

Christians who are really serious about their destiny don’t eat every day. Despite my age, I still fast because I want to finish strong. In 1984, I was on a 40-day fast, lying weak on my prayer mat, when someone came in, saw me, and asked, “What else are you looking for in life that is making you fast this much?” That was many decades ago; look how far I have come since then.

Beloved, if you have surrendered your life to Christ, rest assured that God wants you to live an impactful and fulfilling life. You are a soldier for Christ, so you must exercise self-control with all things (1 Corinthians 9:25). To enjoy this life, you cannot be a glutton. Soldiers have a regulated diet and hence, must exercise self-control with food for their own good.

OPEN HEAVEN 10 JULY 2025 PRAYER POINT

Control your appetite so you can fulfil your destiny.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR

Ecclesiastes 1-4

HYMN 34: YIELD NOT TO TEMPTATION

OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 10 JULY 2025 COMMENTARY

MEMORISE: Proverbs 23:21

“For the drunkard and the glutton shall come to poverty: and drowsiness shall clothe a man with rags.”

This verse starkly warns against the dangers of lack of self-control, particularly with food and drink. Gluttony, like drunkenness, leads to spiritual, physical, and even financial decline.

BIBLE READING: Romans 6:12-14

“Let not sin therefore reign in your mortal body, that ye should obey it in the lusts thereof… but yield yourselves unto God, as those that are alive from the dead.”

Paul’s message is clear: Christians must not let bodily appetites dominate them. We are called to submit our flesh to God’s Spirit, not vice versa.

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The Spiritual and Physical Dangers of Gluttony

The devotional presents gluttony as a form of slavery to the flesh that weakens both spiritual and physical health.

1. Gluttony = Spiritual Weakness

• Fasting is Non-Negotiable for Christians
  • Jesus said “when you fast” (Matthew 6:16), not “if”—meaning self-denial is expected of believers.
  • Matthew 17:21 – Some spiritual battles require fasting for victory.
• A Glutton Cannot Fast Effectively
  • Overeating dulls spiritual sensitivity (1 Peter 5:8).
  • Example:
    • Esau traded his birthright for food (Genesis 25:32), showing how appetite can override destiny.

2. Gluttony = Physical Destruction

• Proverbs 23:2 – “Put a knife to thy throat, if thou be a man given to appetite.”
  • Overeating is slow suicide—it strains the heart, weakens immunity, and shortens lifespan.
• Scientific Proof
  • The rat experiment in the devotional mirrors modern research: obesity increases disease risk.
  • 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 – Our bodies are God’s temples; we must care for them.

3. Gluttony = Wasted Destiny

• Proverbs 23:21 links gluttony to poverty (not just financial but also spiritual barrenness).
• 1 Corinthians 9:27 – Paul disciplined his body lest he become disqualified.

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How to Overcome Gluttony

1. Start Fasting Regularly
   • Begin with short fasts (e.g., skipping one meal) and increase gradually.
2. Eat Mindfully
   • Stop eating before feeling stuffed (Ecclesiastes 10:17).
3. Replace Food with Spiritual Disciplines
   • When cravings hit, pray or read Scripture instead.
4. Accountability
   • Share your struggle with a mature believer (James 5:16).

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Conclusion: You Are a Soldier, Not a Slave

Ask yourself:

• “Does food control me, or do I control my appetite?”
• “When was the last time I fasted for spiritual breakthrough?”

Action Step:

• Commit to a weekly fast (even if just one meal) to strengthen your spirit.

Gluttony is not a minor sin—it’s a gateway to spiritual defeat. But through self-control and fasting, you can live as Christ’s disciplined soldier, ready for battle and destiny!

“For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost.” (Romans 14:17).

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