MEMORISE And Jesus knew their thoughts, and said unto them, Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation; and every city or house divided against itself shall not stand: Matthew 12:25
READ: Psalm 133:1-3
Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity! 2 It is like the precious ointment upon the head, that ran down upon the beard, even Aaron’s beard: that went down to the skirts of his garments; 3 As the dew of Hermon, and as the dew that descended upon the mountains of Zion: for there the Lord commanded the blessing, even life for evermore.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 30 APRIL 2025 TODAY MESSAGE
Several scriptures clearly tell us that God hates disunity, and He loves it when His children are united. He said in John 13:35 that it is by showing love to one another that people will recognise us as His disciples. God is so particular about unity that He said that if you come to Him with an offering and remember that your brother has something against you, you must go and reconcile with him before returning to give your offering (Matthew 5:23-24).
God wants His children to be united because He knows that there is little we can achieve individually. He knows that the moment we begin to operate as separate entities, it will be easy for the devil to gain entry into our territories, and we will not be able to do much to stop him.
Ecclesiastes 4:12 says: And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken.
There are many Christians and Christian organisations around the world. In fact, Christianity is considered to be the most popular religion in the world. Why, then, are the governments of some nations establishing anti-Christian policies and persecuting Christians? The major reason is that many of us Christians are living in isolation. If we come together and decree a thing, it will surely come to pass. If we can come together and decide to turn the whole world around for Christ, we will be unstoppable.
When you look at all the times that there have been revivals in the past, one major thing you will discover is that a significant part of the body of Christ was united. At the upper room, when the disciples were all in one accord, the Holy Ghost came down, and three thousand souls were saved on that day. The Bible further says in Acts 2:46-47 that the disciples were united and more and more people were added to the church daily.
Look within your local assembly; is there unity among you? Look at the environment where your church is located; is your local assembly working in unity with the other churches in the community? If we can only put aside our differences and come together to form a united front against the devil, we will discover that nothing will be impossible to us.
ACTION POINT:
Pray for the unity of all the churches in your community and the body of Christ as a whole.
And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. Matthew 19:29
READ: 1 Kings 19:19-21
19 So he departed thence, and found Elisha the son of Shaphat, who was plowing with twelve yoke of oxen before him, and he with the twelfth: and Elijah passed by him, and cast his mantle upon him. 20 And he left the oxen, and ran after Elijah, and said, Let me, I pray thee, kiss my father and my mother, and then I will follow thee. And he said unto him, Go back again: for what have I done to thee? 21 And he returned back from him, and took a yoke of oxen, and slew them, and boiled their flesh with the instruments of the oxen, and gave unto the people, and they did eat. Then he arose, and went after Elijah, and ministered unto him.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 31 MAY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE
When Elijah went to Elisha’s farm and threw his mantle on him, Elisha didn’t waste time before he surrendered all to answer God’s call. Elisha seemed to be a rich fellow because Elijah met him plowing with twelve yokes of oxen when he passed by him. However, Elisha didn’t count this as anything because he returned home, killed a yoke of oxen, gave it to his people, and followed Elijah to become his servant. Within a day, the manager of an apparently thriving agricultural business became a prophet’s servant.
Elisha ministered to Elijah and was known as the one who poured water on the hands of Elijah (2 Kings 3:11). The blessings Elisha got for surrendering all in service to God are unquantifiable. He received a double portion of Elijah’s anointing (2 Kings 2:9-15), became a father to kings (2 Kings 6:21), and even after his death, his dry bones raised a dead man back to life (2 Kings 13:21). When a man surrenders all to the One who made him, he will live an impactful life.
From Elisha’s story, we see that lasting greatness begins with absolute surrender. Any seed that will count for anything, must first enter into the soil and die. It must surrender its beauty and strength so as to rot in the earth before new life can sprout from it. Jesus said:
Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except a corn of wheat fall into the ground and die, it abideth alone: but if it die, it bringeth forth much fruit. He that loveth his life shall lose it; and he that hateth his life in this world shall keep it unto life eternal. John 12:24-25
Beloved, surrender all to the One who made you, and He will guide you aright. When you surrender your life to God, you are asking Him to help you because you don’t know the best way to live your life. In John 15:5, Jesus said,
“Without me, you can do nothing.” Paul also knew the secret to absolute surrender, and that is why he said, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me” (Philippians 4:13).
Those who surrender all to Jesus will gain more in the end. However, those who keep a part of their lives, like Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5:1-2 end up losing even more than the things they are trying to keep.
PRAYER POINT
Father, please help me to surrender all to You wholeheartedly.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Job 17-20
RCCG HYMN 7: I AM THINE O LORD.
OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 31 MAY 2025 COMMENTARY
Memorise: Matthew 19:29 (KJV)
This verse encapsulates the divine principle that total surrender to God’s call brings multiplied blessings both now and eternally.
Bible Reading: 1 Kings 19:19-21 (KJV)
Elisha’s radical response to Elijah’s mantle symbolizes the complete consecration required for supernatural destiny fulfillment.
Key Insights from Today’s Open Heaven Devotional
1. The Anatomy of Elisha’s Surrender
Immediate Obedience
No hesitation when called (v.20: “he left the oxen”)
Contrasted with Luke 9:61’s “let me first…” excuses
Total Break from Past
Destroyed farming equipment (v.21)
Burned bridges to former life
Humble Service
Became Elijah’s water-pourer (2 Kings 3:11)
Served before reigning
2. The Divine Exchange Principle
What Elisha Surrendered
What He Gained
12 yoke of oxen (wealth)
Double portion anointing
Family inheritance
Father to kings
Agricultural business
Resurrection power in bones
Independent life
Eternal legacy
3. Jesus’ Teaching on Surrender (John 12:24-25)
Paradox of Kingdom Economics:
Death precedes multiplication (v.24)
Release guarantees preservation (v.25)
Service leads to greatness (Mark 10:43-44)
4. Modern Examples of Radical Surrender
The Author’s Testimony
Left academia for ministry
Endured early hardships in Redemption City
Biblical Warnings
Ananias/Sapphira: Partial surrender (Acts 5:1-11)
Rich Young Ruler: Clung to wealth (Matthew 19:22)
5. The Blessings of Total Consecration
Supernatural Empowerment
Elisha’s double portion (2 Kings 2:9)
Eternal Perspective
“Hundredfold… everlasting life” (Matthew 19:29)
Divine Guidance
“He will guide you aright” (Proverbs 3:6)
Life Applications
For the Hesitant:
Action: Identify one area you’re withholding from God – release it today
Prayer: “Lord, give me Elisha’s courage to burn my plows”
For the Wealthy:
Challenge: Audit your possessions – what controls you?
Promise: “Hundredfold return” (Mark 10:29-30)
For Leaders:
Model: Share your surrender story to inspire others
Warning: Partial obedience = disobedience (1 Samuel 15:22-23)
Warning vs. Promise
Warning:“Whoever seeks to save his life will lose it” (Luke 17:33)
Promise:“All things are possible through Christ” (Philippians 4:13)
Seeds must die → Harvests multiply (pain precedes gain)
Temporal losses → Eternal rewards (Matthew 6:20)
Prayer Response
“Father, I surrender all: my plans, possessions, and privileges. Give me grace to follow like Elisha, serve like Paul, and die to self like Christ. Let my total obedience release Your hundredfold blessing, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Final Charge “Will you be remembered like Elisha who burned his plows or the rich ruler who kept his wealth?” Your greatest gain begins with your complete surrender!
And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. Luke 11:9
READ: Luke 11:5-10
5 And he said unto them, Which of you shall have a friend, and shall go unto him at midnight, and say unto him, Friend, lend me three loaves; 6 For a friend of mine in his journey is come to me, and I have nothing to set before him? 7 And he from within shall answer and say, Trouble me not: the door is now shut, and my children are with me in bed; I cannot rise and give thee. 8 I say unto you, Though he will not rise and give him, because he is his friend, yet because of his importunity he will rise and give him as many as he needeth. 9 And I say unto you, Ask, and it shall be given you; seek, and ye shall find; knock, and it shall be opened unto you. 10 For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 30 MAY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE
In Mark 10:46-52, Bartimaeus cried continually until Jesus attended to him. If Bartimaeus had not been persistent, he may not have gotten his miracle. In Genesis 32:24-28, when the angel said to Jacob, “Let me go,” he replied, “I won’t let you go until you bless me.”
Beloved, hold on to God until you get your miracle. He said in Isaiah 62:6-7 that you should not let Him rest until He establishes you and makes you a praise in the earth.
Many people don’t get their miracles because they give up too soon. However, people who know how to continually knock on heaven’s doors always receive answers. Jesus told the parable of the widow who didn’t stop demanding justice in Luke 18:2-5. She wouldn’t let the judge rest until he attended to her matter. Although he didn’t fear God or regard men, the widow’s persistence pushed him to help her. In today’s Bible reading, Jesus told another parable of a fellow who went to his friend’s house at midnight to ask for bread to entertain a visitor. Jesus said that even though his friend might not want to respond to him because it was late, he would rise and give him as many loaves as he wanted because of his persistence.
Every problem you might experience in your life has an expiry date if you don’t give up on God. If you continually knock, the door will eventually open. People who are fainthearted or give up easily cannot get anything significant from life. Such people let go, even when they are so close to their blessing.
People who don’t let go are people of great determination. Some of them wrestle all night in prayer and continue knocking on heaven’s door until they receive answers. Be determined; don’t give up on your prayers until you receive answers like Daniel (Daniel 10:2-14), Jacob (Genesis 32:24-28), Elijah (1 Kings 18:42-45), and the widow in Jesus’ parable (Luke 18:2-5).
Beloved, you can grow your strength by consuming God’s word and waiting on Him in the place of prayer. Do not let the enemy cheat you by wearing you down at the edge of your breakthrough; hold on firmly to God’s promises. Don’t take ‘no’ for an answer, you will eventually receive your miracle if you persist in your prayers like the woman in Matthew 15:21-28.
Do you want a blessing like Jacob or justice like the widow in Luke 18:2-5? Don’t let go. Keep knocking and pushing until your answer comes.
KEY POINT
Those who keep knocking and asking will eventually receive their miracles.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Job 13-16
RCCG HYMN 35: ‘TIS SO SWEET TO TRUST IN JESUS
OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 30 MAY 2025 COMMENTARY
Memorise: Luke 11:9 (KJV)
This verse establishes the threefold action plan for receiving miracles: asking (petition), seeking (pursuit), and knocking (persistence).
Bible Reading: Luke 11:5-10 (KJV)
Jesus’ parable of the midnight visitor illustrates how bold persistence overcomes relational and temporal barriers to secure divine provision.
Key Insights from Today’s Open Heaven Devotional
1. Biblical Models of Persistent Faith
Bartimaeus (Mark 10:46-52)
Obstacle: Crowd’s opposition
Strategy: Louder cries
Result: Instant healing
Jacob (Genesis 32:26)
Obstacle: Divine resistance
Strategy: “I will not let go”
Result: Covenant blessing
Daniel (Daniel 10:12-13)
Obstacle: 21-day spiritual warfare
Strategy: Continued fasting
Result: Angelic breakthrough
2. The Parabolic Blueprint for Breakthrough
Midnight Visitor (Luke 11:5-8)
Audacity: Asking at inconvenient time
Specificity: Requesting “three loaves”
Persistence: Refusing to take “no”
Widow’s Justice (Luke 18:1-8)
Relentlessness: “She keeps coming” (v.5)
Boldness: Demanding from unjust judge
Result: “Get her justice” (v.5)
3. Why Persistence Triumphs
Tests Sincerity
Casual seekers receive casual answers
“You will seek Me and find Me when you search with all your heart” (Jeremiah 29:13)
Develops Spiritual Muscle
Prayer endurance produces character (Romans 5:3-4)
Overcomes Spiritual Resistance
Daniel’s 21-day battle (Daniel 10:13)
Jesus’ 40-day wilderness victory (Matthew 4)
4. The Danger of Premature Surrender
Biblical Warnings:
Elijah’s servant: Stopped looking for rain too soon (1 Kings 18:43)
Israel at Kadesh: Turned back when promised land was near (Numbers 14)
Example: Nehemiah prayed while working (Nehemiah 4:9)
Warning vs. Promise
Warning:“The lazy man will not plow… therefore he shall beg” (Proverbs 20:4)
Promise:“The effective prayer of a righteous man avails much” (James 5:16)
Conclusion: From Knocking to Overflow
Every “no” is a test of your “how much”
Breakthroughs come to those who outlast resistance
Your persistence today writes tomorrow’s testimony
Prayer Response
“Father, make me a spiritual wrestler like Jacob, a relentless seeker like Bartimaeus, and a bold asker like the midnight visitor. Break every spirit of prayer fatigue in me. Let my persistence dismantle every obstacle to my miracle, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Final Charge “Will your prayer life be remembered for its quitting points or its breakthrough moments?” The door opens for those who knock until their knuckles bleed!
Wait on the LORD: be of good courage, and he shall strengthen thine neart: wait, I say, on the LORD. Psalm 27:14
READ: Psalm 37:4-7
4 Delight thyself also in the Lord: and he shall give thee the desires of thine heart. 5 Commit thy way unto the Lord; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. 6 And he shall bring forth thy righteousness as the light, and thy judgment as the noonday. 7 Rest in the Lord, and wait patiently for him: fret not thyself because of him who prospereth in his way, because of the man who bringeth wicked devices to pass.
RCCG OPEN HEAVEN 29 MAY 2025 TODAY MESSAGE
In Genesis 18:2-8, after Abraham set a meal before his divine visitors, he stood by them probably sensed that there was something divine and powerful about them, he did not begin to burden them with tales of his problems, such as his childlessness. Instead he attended to their needs and waited on them in case they needed anything else.
This is the kind of fellow that God goes all the way to provide for – someone who can truly wait on Him and is willing to attend to His needs first. God is looking for genuine worshippers who can patiently stay in mis presence and fellowship with Him without being in a hurry to make demands (John 4:23-24). Are you that kind of worshipper?
In life, people wait for different things at different times, such as waiting in a doctor’s office for consultations and waiting in traffic for hours. However, despite the fact that many christians do not mind waiting for nours for these things, they are quick to hurry out of God’s presence after spending just a few minutes
In Psalm 100:4, the bible says thet you must come into God’s presence with thanksgiving and praises. In other words, no matter how pressing your needs are, you must not come to God complaining about them; instead, you should give Him thanks and praise first.
You must realise that the One in whose presence you are is the King of all kings; you are at His mercy and not the other way around. You must find out the things He wants and attend to them first. What does God want? He loves praises (Psalm 22:3) and thanksgiving (Psalm 100:4). Also, He is looking for people who will intercede for others (Ezekiel 22:30), and He wants souls (John 15:16). When You give Him these things, He will bring laughter to your face.
Waiting on the Lord is the secret to getting instant answers and miracles. When you go to a restaurant, a good waiter doesn’t give you his favourite food; rather, he waits on you to know what you want, then, he delivers it courteously as fast as he can.
Beloved, have you tried to find out what God wants? When you go to Him in prayer, are you serving Him His delicacies or just dumping your requests on Him? God seeks waiters who will do what He wants, and when He finds them, He goes all the way to satisfy them.
KEY POINT
God goes the extra mile for those who wait on Him.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Job 9-12
RCCG HYMN 18: PRAISE TO THE LORD THE ALMIGHTY
OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL 29 MAY 2025 COMMENTARY
Memorise: Psalm 27:14 (KJV)
This verse captures the essence of today’s message—patient, expectant fellowship with God precedes supernatural intervention.
Bible Reading: Psalm 37:4-7 (KJV)
David’s psalm reveals the blessings of God-centered waiting: divine desires fulfilled (v.4), guidance (v.5), and vindication (v.6) for those who rest in Him.
Key Insights from Today’s Open Heaven Devotional
1. Abraham’s Model of Divine Hospitality (Genesis 18:2-8)
Four Principles of Waiting on God:
Priority of Presence: Noticed divine visitors before speaking (v.2)
Service Before Petitions: Prepared a meal without mentioning barrenness
Attentive Availability: “Stood by them” (v.8) for further instructions
Patient Expectancy: Received covenant confirmation after serving (v.10)
Modern Application:
Spend the first 10 minutes of prayer in worship
Journal God’s attributes before listing requests
2. The Heart of True Worship (John 4:23-24)
God Seeks:
Thanksgiving over complaints (Psalm 100:4)
Praise as spiritual warfare (Psalm 22:3)
Intercession for others (Ezekiel 22:30)
Soul-winning obedience (John 15:16)
Warning Signs of Self-Centered Prayer:
Rushing into demands
Neglecting Scripture meditation
Ignoring others’ needs
3. The Restaurant Waiter Paradigm
Spiritual Parallels:
Natural Waiter
Spiritual Waiter
Studies the menu
Knows God’s Word
Listens for orders
Disciples through prayer
Serves promptly
Obeys divine promptings
Anticipates needs
Intercedes proactively
Jesus’ Example: “I do always those things that please Him” (John 8:29)
4. The Rewards of Waiting
Divine Strength (Isaiah 40:31)
Strategic Guidance (Psalm 32:8)
Supernatural Provision (Matthew 6:33)
Emotional Peace (Isaiah 26:3)
5. Practical Steps to Cultivate God-Centered Waiting
Scheduled Stillness
15-minute “listening prayer” daily (Habakkuk 2:1)
Scripture-Based Worship
Pray through Psalms 145-150 before requests
Intercessory Firstfruits
Lift 5 others’ needs before personal petitions
Obedient Action
Like Abraham, serve while waiting (Genesis 18:6-7)
Encouragement: God records your tears (Psalm 56:8) even when silent
Action: Replace complaint lists with thanksgiving journals
For Leaders:
Model: Host “Waiting Rooms”—corporate worship without preaching
Warning: Martha’s distraction vs. Mary’s focus (Luke 10:38-42)
Warning vs. Promise
Warning:“They soon forgot His works; they waited not for His counsel” (Psalm 106:13)
Promise:“They that wait upon the LORD shall renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31)
Conclusion: The Divine Exchange
Your worship prepares the throne room for your petitions
Waiting isn’t passive—it’s active spiritual service
God satisfies those who prioritize His pleasure
Prayer Response
“Father, train me to wait as Abraham did—serving before speaking, worshipping before worrying. Make me a true spiritual waiter who delights Your heart. As I seek first Your kingdom, fulfill every promise in Your timing, in Jesus’ name. Amen.”
Final Charge “Will you be remembered as a demander of blessings or a waiter on the King?” The deepest miracles bloom in the soil of patient worship!
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!
INTRODUCTION: Based on the assurance of answers to all our prayers in the Word of God (John 14:13-14), let us give quality thanks, praises and appreciation to God in all our churches during the service today being the last day of the 100 days of fasting and prayers, for bringing us to the end of the fasting and for answering all our prayers
PRAYER POINTS:
Bless the Lord, Oh my soul, and all that is within me, Bless His Holy name. Psalm 103:1. Let us worship the Lord in the beauty of His holiness
Father, thank You for the grace of triumphant entry into the New Year 2025
Father, we thank You for being our help in ages past; all the mercies and blessings and our hope for this new year 2025. Lam 3:22-23
Father, thank You for answering all my prayers in Jesus name.
Father thank You for releasing abundant resources for me that will enable me to serve You wholeheartedly this year and beyond in Jesus’ name.
RCCG Fasting and Prayer DAY 99 – April 19, 2025
FAILURE AT THE EDGE OF SUCCESS
BIBLE TEXT(S)Deu. 32:51-52. Joh.5:7
INTRODUCTION:
Failure at the edge of success is a bad spirit that is assigned to truncate the destinies of the children of God at the final edge of breakthrough.
PRAYER POINTS:
Bless the Lord, Oh my soul, and all that is within me, Bless His Holy name. Psalm 103:1. Let us worship the Lord in the beauty of His holiness
Father, thank You for the grace of triumphant entry into the New Year 2025
Father, I thank You for being my help in ages past; for all the mercies and blessings and my hope for this new year 2025. Lam 3:22-23
Father, I thank you for the gift of life through the death of our Lord Jesus Christ.
Father, I repent of the sins of disobedience and anger, in Jesus’ name.
Father, I plead the blood of Jesus over my life and family, in Jesus’ name.
Father, please deliver me from the spirit of anger, in Jesus’ name.
Father, remove from our lives every provocation that will cause me to fail at the edge of my success in the name of Jesus.
Father, frustrate and disappoint every enemy of my success in Jesus’ name
Father give me the grace to be at the right place at the right time in the name of Jesus.
Father, let my enemies be caught by their own net that they have set for me and fall in Jesus name. Eccl 10:8
Father, I receive the anointing to finish well and finish strong in Jesus name
Father, break every curse of failure at the edge of success in my life, in Jesus name.
Father, as you helped Peter to overcome failure at the edge of success, help me to overcome in Jesus name. Luke.5:3-7.
Father, give me all that I need to serve You wholeheartedly this year, in Jesus’ name Psalm 63:7-8
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!
