Category: Akubueze Bible Devotions

This is what happens when a man’s ways please the Lord

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“When a man’s ways please the Lord, He makes even his enemies be at peace with him.” – Prov. 16:7

It is definitely true. Here’s why:
The statement above was made by someone special. He was a king and by far, someone who should have had throngs of foes and enemies. Yet, he was audacious to say this. Why?
We see that prior to Solomon’s exceptional reign of wisdom, wealth, and fame, we are told in God’s Word that he had a pep talk with God. In his pep talk, the Bible records that what Solomon asked for “pleased” God. In return, God assured him of the wisdom, wealth, and fame he began to enjoy from then. Not only that, but God strikingly gave him “rest on every side from all his enemies” (1 Kgs. 3:3-15).
No wonder he could say this. And surveying through the chronicles of his life, you cannot dare to think otherwise.
But one would ask, what about his father, David? Did his ways not please the Lord? Why was his own life and reign characterized by the sting of enemies roundabout?
Well, it would interest you to know that even though it seemed that he had enemies, if you would look closely, all his enemies later came to a realization that he was true and just. In the end, he also enjoyed peace and rest (1 Chron. 23:25).
Also, here is what God told David after some time:
1Chr.22.9 – But you will have a son who will be a man of peace and rest, and I will give him rest from all his enemies on every side. His name will be Solomon, and I will grant Israel peace and quiet during his reign.
So, although in context, this statement was made to David on account of his desire to build a temple for the God He truly loved, I would like you to also see it this way. It could be a reward for the great pleasure that David brought to God that God in His mercies and favour decided to extend His blessings to David’s son, and beyond that, his entire generation (Exod. 20:6).
By accepting His Son, Jesus Christ (who was also David’s descendant), and living to please Him, we as children of God also enjoy this great promise of rest (Heb. 4:1-12).
We see Jehoshaphat also enjoying peace and rest on every side because He “pleased” the Lord (2 Chron. 20:1-30).
In foreign lands where some children of God would have surely had a lot of haters, we see the children of God enjoying great benefits. This is true of Joseph, Esther and even Daniel and his friends (Gen. 39:1-5; 20-23, Esther 2:15, Dan. 1:8-21; 2:47-49).
To enter into God’s rest from all the attacks of the enemy, we need to accept Him and please Him with our entire being.

Sincere dating allows us to be original and confident

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Sincere dating allows us to be original and confident in the person we are.

 

First of all, let us look at the word DATING. Dating is a form of romantic courtship typically between two individuals with the aim of assessing the other’s suitability as a partner in an intimate relationship or as a spouse. 

  To be sincere means to be original, truthful, genuine, to be pure, to mean what one says or does, not lying. 

  In a relationship, dating is a very crucial period when partners try to know each other better. In some partners, the dating period determines the success or failure of their relationship. In the dating period, some partners claim who they are not, and that is why some spouses after their marriage will say ‘ I didn’t know that he/she is like this ‘. They have been pretending to be who they are not. Prov 12:22  says that the Lord detests lying lips but delights in people who are trustworthy.

 

Here are some reasons why sincere dating allows us to be original and confident in the person we are.

 

1) Sincere dating helps partners to build trust in each other. When you are sincere, your partner believes in whatever you say or do without any doubt or fear.

 

2) It helps us to be who we are. In some dating where sincerity is lacking, some partners will tell themselves many lies, and after their marriage, they will be surprised to see a different personality apart from whom they claim to be. It is better to be proud of whom we are. In Psalm 139:14, the Psalmist says ‘ I praise you Lord for I am fearfully and wonderfully made’.

 

3) It makes us to be confident anytime anywhere without being afraid of being exposed.

 

4) It inculcates self-esteem and self-respect.

When you lied about your real identity and your partner came to know, you have sold your self-esteem and self-respect. You will be ashamed of the outcome of your lies.

 

5) Sincere dating helps your partner to defend you anytime knowing fully that you are who you said you are. If someone comes to gossip about you,  your partner will defend you at all costs.

 

6) Sincere dating helps you to face any challenges in marriage.

If you are sincere during the dating period, if gives you the confidence to face any challenge that occurs in marriage knowing fully that the problem is not coming as a result of insincerity during dating.

In Ruth 1:1-end, the bible tells a story of Naomi and her daughters-in-law. Because sincerity had existed in their relationship, when challenges came upon them, Ruth didn’t abandon her mother-in-law and the bible told us how God rewarded her at last.

 

In conclusion,

Sincerity is the bedrock of any relationship. It builds love, confidence, and originality among partners.  It makes spouses to be happy and proud of each other.

May God help us to be sincere in life and in our relationship. Amen.

To pray for others is to pray for yourself.

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To pray for others is to pray for yourself.

 

To pray for others is to pray for yourself.There is a game my teacher in Sunday School introduced me to when I was younger. The game is called “angel and mortar.” In this game, the names of everyone in the room will be written on different pieces of paper and wrapped in such a way as to conceal the names. Each one of us would then pick up a name of a person already wrapped in a paper. 

 

After this, we would spend a particular period of time praying for the person we picked in our personal time with God. The game was conducted in such a way that the people we were praying for would not even be aware that we picked their names. At the end of the stipulated period, we would each then give our prayer partners special gifts they would appreciate. It was always a surreal experience and it was so much fun.

 

But beyond that, it was always fulfilling because it was a privilege to see someone you had prayed for doing better. The basis for this game as taught by our Sunday school teacher was the story of Job. The Bible says that God instructed Job to “pray for his friends,” after which his fortunes were restored. Now, it’s interesting to know that God did not tell Job to pray for himself before he would be restored. God rather told him to pray for his friends for his (Job’s) restoration (Job 42:7-10).

 

This teaches us that there is power when we pray for others and not just ourselves. Firstly, praying for others rids us of our natural selfishness. You know, there was a time I got so insecure around my younger sister. I was literally jealous of her. However, I was shocked to the bone when the Holy Spirit instructed me to pray for her. In my mind, I was like, “What in the world, God! That’s someone who is literally better than me in everything. How do I pray for someone to increase higher when I am so low?” But then, the Holy Spirit helped me and I did begin to pray for her. And God has come and is still coming through for me in various ways.

 

Intercession is a great thing. The Holy Spirit intercedes for us (Rom. 8:26-27). So does Jesus (Heb. 7:25), and He desires us to imitate and imbibe His nature. Truly, when you pray for others unselfishly and from your heart, God hears and He comes through for them – but not without coming through for you in an even greater way! God is pleased when we pray for each other. 

 

It shows that we are truly walking in love and we are truly concerned about one another’s well-being. It shows God that though we have our own problems, we are setting them aside, so we can bring to Him the problems of others. It shows that we are carrying one another’s burdens (hence fulfilling God’s law of love) (Gal. 6:2). What can make God happier than that? 

 

When God sees a heart that truly loves unselfishly and comes to Him – as a Father that cares – with the burdens of others, He will bless such a heart. 

 

Pray for someone today!

4 things to know about the nature of God

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God’s nature as neither an author of confusion nor order is rooted in His character of holiness, wisdom, and sovereignty. In 1 Corinthians 14:33, it’s stated that God is not a God of confusion but of peace, emphasizing His desire for order and harmony in all things. Additionally, James 3:17 highlights the wisdom that comes from God, characterized by purity, peace, gentleness, and openness to reason, demonstrating His commitment to clarity and understanding. Therefore, God’s nature is inherently consistent with principles of orderliness and coherence, reflecting His divine wisdom and the perfection of His plans for creation.

 

  1. God’s Word affirms His nature as a God of order. In 1 Corinthians 14:33, it’s stated: “For God is not a God of disorder but of peace—as in all the congregations of the Lord’s people.” This verse underscores God’s inherent nature of bringing order and harmony rather than confusion. It reflects His desire for coherence and tranquility in all aspects of life, including within the community of believers. This assurance provides a foundation for trust and confidence in God’s sovereignty, knowing that His plans and purposes are characterized by clarity and direction.

 

  1. God’s sovereignty ensures His plans unfold with purpose and coherence. Proverbs 19:21 states: “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the LORD’s purpose that prevails.” This verse emphasizes God’s ultimate authority and control over all things, including the fulfillment of His plans. While humans may have various intentions and aspirations, it is ultimately God’s will that prevails. This truth brings assurance that even amidst uncertainty or apparent disorder, God’s sovereign hand is at work, guiding events according to His divine purpose. Therefore, believers can trust in His wisdom and providence, knowing that His plans are established in perfect order and will ultimately come to fruition.

 

  1. Disorder and confusion often arise from human sin and rebellion against God’s design. Romans 1:28 states: “Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind so that they do what ought not to be done.” This verse highlights the consequences of human disobedience and rejection of God’s truth. When people turn away from God and His ways, they descend into spiritual darkness and moral confusion. As a result, disorder and chaos become prevalent in their lives and societies. This passage underscores the correlation between sin and disorder, emphasizing that the rejection of God’s order leads to confusion and chaos. Therefore, it reaffirms that God is not the author of confusion but stands for order and righteousness.

 

  1. God’s acts and commandments consistently promote order and righteousness. Psalm 119:133 says, “Direct my footsteps according to your word; let no sin rule over me.” This verse reflects the psalmist’s desire for God to guide him in walking according to His commandments. Throughout the Bible, God’s commandments are portrayed as the pathway to righteousness and order. By following God’s precepts, individuals align themselves with His divine order and experience the blessings of obedience. Conversely, when people stray from God’s commandments, they invite disorder and chaos into their lives. Therefore, this verse underscores the importance of adhering to God’s Word as the foundation of a life characterized by righteousness and order. It reaffirms that God’s acts and commandments are inherently aligned with the principles of order and righteousness, further supporting the assertion that He is not the author of confusion.

 

What prayer does to the praying soul

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  1. Prayer fosters intimacy with God: Through prayer, we communicate with God and develop a personal relationship with Him. This intimacy helps us grow in faith and trust in Him.

 

“And when you pray, do not keep on babbling like pagans, for they think they will be heard because of their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.” (Matthew 6:7-8)

 

  1. Prayer increases our reliance on God: By bringing our concerns, worries, and thanksgiving to God in prayer, we acknowledge our dependence on Him and strengthen our faith in His provision and guidance.

 

“Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God.” (Philippians 4:6)

 

  1. Prayer aligns our hearts with God’s will: When we pray consistently, we seek to align our desires and intentions with God’s plans for us. This alignment deepens our faith as we trust in His perfect will for our lives.

 

“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: that if we ask anything according to his will, he hears us.” (1 John 5:14)

 

  1. Prayer brings about spiritual growth: Praying regularly helps us remain connected to God and His Word, leading to spiritual growth and maturity in our faith.

 

“But grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.” (2 Peter 3:18)

 

In conclusion, prayer is a powerful tool that strengthens our faith by fostering intimacy with God, increasing our reliance on Him, aligning our hearts with His will, and promoting our spiritual growth in Him.

Praying for others impacts our spiritual life

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YES, this statement is true because praying for others has a way of also impacting our own spiritual journey in ways we can never imagine. When we lift up the needs, struggles, and joys of others in prayer, we are exercising empathy, compassion, and selflessness. This act of putting others before ourselves is a reflection of the love of Christ and His teachings, which places emphasis on the importance of caring for and praying for one another.

 

One biblical example I would like to point out is the story of Job. Despite facing immense suffering and loss, Job prayed fervently for his friends, even though they had not been supportive or understanding of his own trials. In Job 42:10, we read, “And the Lord restored the fortunes of Job when he had prayed for his friends. And the Lord gave Job twice as much as he had before.” By praying for others, Job not only demonstrated his faith and obedience to God but also experienced restoration and blessings in his own life.

 

Another example is found in the book of James, where we are instructed to pray for one another so that we may be healed. James 5:16 states, “Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working.” This scripture emphasizes the interconnectedness of praying for others and receiving healing and restoration in our own lives.

 

Furthermore, the act of praying for others can also cultivate a spirit of gratitude and humility within us. As we reflect on the needs of those around us and bring them before God in prayer, we are reminded of the abundant blessings and grace that we have received. This sense of gratitude can deepen our relationship with God and increase our awareness of His presence and provision in our lives. Philippians 4:6 encourages us to present our requests to God with thanksgiving, acknowledging His faithfulness and goodness.

 

Also, praying for others can lead to a greater sense of unity and community within the body of Christ. When we pray for our brothers and sisters in Christ, we are strengthening the bonds of fellowship and mutual support that characterize the Church. Galatians 6:2 urges us to “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.” Through our prayers for others, we are sharing in their burdens and joys, demonstrating our love and commitment to the family of God.

 

Praying for others is not a waste of time. It is a beautiful way to love your neighbor and be a full partaker of the blessings that come with obedience.

God is neither an author of confusion nor disorder

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 God is not the author of confusion but He is the God of order. Here is what the verse says:

 

1Cor.14.33 For He [Who is the source of their prophesying] is not a God of confusion and disorder but of peace and order. As [is the practice] in all the churches of the saints (God’s people), (AMP)

 

From the way God works, we can see that indeed, He is a God of order. Take a peek at the story of creation. It shows us that God did not just create the universe in a second. Of course, He is God and would have just commanded everything to appear at once without anyone barking at Him or restraining Him. But still, He chose to create each element of the universe one at a time (See Genesis 1). Why did He do this? I believe it is because He intends to teach us something. He intends to let us in on His nature. He intends to tell us something – He is a God of ORDER!

 

Consider the human body too. In my field of study, I have learned that humans are made up of billions of tiny atoms which are organized into cells. These cells are further organized into tissues; which are organized into organs; which are still organized into systems that make up the human body. Now this is the same for every normal human on Earth. One of the striking characteristics of living things that continues to amaze scientists is their organization – their order. Now, Someone created humans. And He created them in His image and likeness (Gen. 1:27). Who does the award go to? GOD! And if the product is a magnificent embodiment of order, what would you expect of a perfect Manufacturer?

 

Look at how the stars are aligned; how the sun shines every morning; how flowers open up and close as they behold the sun; the metamorphosis of a butterfly. Boy, you can’t help but marvel at the God of order. He is not just a God or order but He establishes His nature in Heaven and on earth (Job 25:2)

 

Now, as humans, we have been created in God’s image and after His likeness. Not only that, but, we are born of Him (1 Jn. 5:1). Since this is so, He expects us to be people of order (Prov. 28:2).

 

God does not expect us to be people who rebel against authorities, constantly stir up conflicts, are disorderly at work, or cannot even keep a room neat and tidy. God expects us as His children to do things well and orderly as His representatives and ambassadors here on earth (2 Cor. 5:20). 

 

Also, God is not a God of confusion. A confused mind is not in tandem with a true Christian’s mind because we have the mind of Christ – and that is not a playground for confusion (1 Cor. 2:16). If you’re confused today, why don’t you ask God to make your mind more like His? Then, also renew your mind with His Word. Cease overthinking and trying to reason everything out (that is not to say, do not reason at all), but just cast your worries on God (1 Pet. 5:7). You know why? Because He cares for you. Yes, you!

 

So, today, why don’t you imitate God’s nature of order in your activities? Ask yourself, how can I show God’s nature of order by the way I behave? And then go do God’s thing through you. You’ve got this!

Walking in love builds a sense of community and unity

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Faith in God grows when you walk in love because love is at the core of a relationship with Him. In Matthew 22:37-39, Jesus says, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.” When we prioritize love in our daily interactions with others, we are embodying the essence of God’s commandments and showing our faith in action. By actively seeking to love and serve those around us, we demonstrate our trust in God’s plan and His ability to work through us.

 

Furthermore, walking in love helps us to see God’s hand in our lives and in the world around us. 1 John 4:12 states, “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and his love is made complete in us.” When we choose to love others unconditionally, we open ourselves up to experiencing the presence of God in our hearts and in our relationships. This deepens our faith and strengthens our connection to Him as we witness His love flowing through us and touching the lives of those we encounter.

 

In addition, walking in love cultivates a spirit of humility and surrender, which are essential components of faith. Philippians 2:3-4 encourages us to, “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.” By putting the needs and well-being of others before our own desires, we demonstrate our trust in God’s plan and acknowledge His sovereignty over our lives. This act of selflessness and submission strengthens our faith as we surrender our will to His and trust in His perfect love and wisdom.

 

Moreover, walking in love builds a sense of community and unity among believers, creating a supportive environment for spiritual growth. Galatians 5:6 affirms that “The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” As we come together in love and fellowship, we are able to encourage one another in our faith journeys and bear each other’s burdens. Showing love and compassion to our brothers and sisters in Christ helps us to build a strong foundation of faith that is rooted in mutual support and accountability. This collective expression of faith through love strengthens our individual beliefs and helps us to grow together as a unified body of believers.

Walking in love is a demonstration of faith

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Certainly! Walking in love is often seen as a demonstration of one’s faith in God because it reflects the teachings of Jesus Christ and the essence of Christianity. Walking in love can foster the growth of faith in God as it aligns with His nature and teachings.

1 John 4:12 (NIV): “No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us, and his love is made complete in us.” This verse suggests that when we love others, we manifest God’s presence in our lives, which deepens our awareness of Him and strengthens our faith.

Ephesians 5:1-2 (NIV): Follow God’s example, therefore, as dearly loved children and walk in the way of love, just as Christ loved us and gave himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to God.” By imitating God’s love, as demonstrated through Jesus Christ, we draw closer to Him and grow in our understanding of His character, leading to increased faith.

1 Corinthians 13:2 (NIV): “If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing.” This verse emphasizes that love is foundational to all other spiritual gifts and virtues, suggesting that walking in love is essential for genuine faith.

Galatians 5:6 (NIV): “For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision nor uncircumcision has any value. The only thing that counts is faith expressing itself through love.” This passage implies that true faith is demonstrated and validated by acts of love, suggesting that as we walk in love, our faith becomes more authentic and robust.

Colossians 3:14 (NIV):”And over all these virtues put on love, which binds them all together in perfect unity.” Love is portrayed as the unifying force that holds together all other virtues, indicating that as we cultivate love in our lives, our faith and other spiritual qualities are strengthened and integrated.

By actively practicing love towards others, in accordance with biblical teachings, individuals not only reflect God’s character but also deepen their relationship with Him, resulting in the growth and maturation of their faith.

The Unique Power Of Patience

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According to Prov 14:29, A patient man has understanding, but a quick-tempered man displays folly. 

The above passage exposes patience as an attribute of a man with great understanding. A patient man is considered to have great understanding which is in contrast to a quick-tempered man who displays foolishness at a slight anger.

 

Patience is a virtue that justifies one as a man of great understanding. It helps one to display maturity instead of folly which is the quality of a bad-tempered man.

 

Patience enables one to think or reason before acting, not taking actions that are destructive or unreasonable.

 

 Col 3:12 “… clothe yourselves with … and patience”. encourages us to be patient especially when dealing with others who might be difficult to handle. Knowing fully well that patience is Christ’s quality. He is described as being lowly and so meek. This virtue makes one Christlike and shows one as being understanding.

 

In conclusion, I consider a patient man as a man of understanding. Whosoever possesses this gift of the holy spirit is a man of understanding.

According to Proverbs 14 vs 29 “Whoever is patient has great understanding, but one who is quick-tempered displays folly.” Patience is a virtue from the Holy Spirit. Patience enables us not to make mistakes, as a high temper one will always commit blunder. Patience grants us the understanding to count the cost and evaluate the consequences before embarking on the task.

 

 Romans 12 vs 12 says we should be patient in tribulations and continue in instant prayer because God is always there for us to make us go through and come out victorious.

 

Galatians 6 vs 9 encouraged us not to be tired in well doing, in due season (being patient), we will reap good result. 

1 Corinthians 13 vs 4 showed us that Love is patient. It is love that fosters patience.

 

As I grow older, I seek patience and a better understanding of how the world works.

A patient man will always get away with many things.

 

A foolish man will destroy himself just like Nabal. Abigail a woman of patience acquired great understanding and saved herself from destruction (1 Samuel 25).

 

In conclusion, a man of patience will always continue to get more understanding in handling matters and situations. We can keep our hopes high by being patient. Foolishness can be seen in a lack of patience which is usually costly. Mistakes made out of a lack of patience may not be easy to correct. A patience man will get more knowledge and understanding (Proverbs 4 vs 7).