Heirs of the Kingdom

LIFE IS LIKE THAT

Mohammed Ali and Larry Holmes were associates for many years. Unknowingly, Holmes was silently jealous of Ali's giant-stides, he kept this to himself but openly continue as Ali's friend. When Ali was getting weaker and the invincible Ali was gradually fadding, Holmes saw the opportunity to unseat the legend of boxing. It was a good time to fulfill his plan.

There's nothing wrong in one boxer challenging another, however, during that fight, Holmes overwhelmed Ali in all rounds and would have won the fight naturally but in the last round, Holmes descended on vulnerable Ali massively in a manner that many professionals saw as heinous. He gave everlasting injury to Ali and won! That is life! Many people may surround you today, hailing you, showing love to you just because your star is shining but whenever they have opportunity to strike you, they won't do it neatly, they will do it with massive h8te!

Tyson watched his hero being ridiculed by Holmes, he couldn't do anything because he was too young then but when he turned 19, he challenged Holmes. He wanted to fight for Ali, he wanted to revenge for Mohammed.

Before the fight commenced, Ali walked to Tyson and whispered to him "Mike, do this for me". And Tyson did it. He tore Holmes to bits, his punches were described as iron, Tyson is now Iron Mike Tyson! The Holmes defeat was worse, he was shredded and that was it.

Life is like that!

WHEN YOU THOUGHT I WASN'T LOOKING

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you hang my first painting on the refrigerator, and I immediately wanted to paint another one.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you feed a stray cat, and I learned that it was good to be kind to animals.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make my favorite cake for me, and I learned that the little things can be the special things in life.

When you thought I wasn't looking I heard you say a prayer, and I knew that there is a God I could always talk to, and I learned to trust in Him.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you make a meal and take it to a friend who was sick, and I learned that we all have to help take care of each other.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw you take care of our house and everyone in it, and I learned we have to take care of what we are given.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw how you handled your responsibilities, even when you didn't feel good, and I learned that I would have to be responsible when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw tears come from your eyes, and I learned that sometimes things hurt, but it's all right to cry.

When you thought I wasn't looking I saw that you cared, and I wanted to be everything that I could be..

When you thought I wasn't looking I learned most of life's lessons that I need to know to be a good and productive person when I grow up.

When you thought I wasn't looking I looked at you and wanted to say,’ Thanks for all the things I saw when you thought I wasn't looking.'

I AM SENDING THIS TO ALL OF THE PEOPLE I KNOW WHO DO SO MUCH FOR OTHERS, BUT THINK THAT NO ONE EVER SEES. LITTLE EYES SEE A LOT...

Don't ever think no one is observing you!

OPEN HEAVEN DEVOTIONAL


THEME: MIND YOUR FOOTPRINTS

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

READ: Matthew 5:14-15
14 Ye are the light of the world. A city that is set on an hill cannot be hid.

15 Neither do men light a candle, and put it under a bushel, but on a candlestick; and it giveth light unto all that are in the house.

MESSAGE
Today, technology is advancing at an incredibly rapid rate. Technological innovations spring up every day, and people are scrambling to keep up. While it is essential for us as Christians to be at the cutting edge of what God is doing in our various industries and fields, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us as we navigate this digital age is much more crucial.

Beloved, no matter how fascinating a technological innovation might be, you must always remember that you are first a child of God and an ambassador of God's kingdom. Sadly, some Christians have lost their way in today's digital age. They have completely forgotten their identity, so they follow all kinds of trends, regardless of whether they align with God's values or not. For instance, many Christians post and share all sorts of content on social media just to get likes, shares, and followers. Such Christians leave unrighteous digital footprints and misrepresent the Lord. They allow unbelievers to blaspheme God's name because of their conduct and actions.

If you are a Christian, you are the light of the world, and you are a city set on a hill which cannot be hidden. This means that whatever you do will be seen by many people.Therefore, your digital footprint, including everything you post on the internet, will reach the devices of millions of people across the world. Social media, for example, is one technological innovation that can be used to shine your light to many people around the world. With social media, you have an easy opportunity to be a global evangelist for God's kingdom; therefore, you must maximize it and not misuse the opportunity it presents by posting ungodly content on your social media platforms. Do not put your candle under a bushel of worldliness and carelessness.Despite the speed of technological advancement today, you have been called to represent Christ wherever you are and with everything you have.

Another advantage of maximizing your digital footprint to shine the light of God's kingdom is that digital footprints outlive people. For example, the late Bishop Benson Idahosa has been dead for many years, but we can still find many of his teachings online. Beloved, what will your digital footprint look like when you have finished your assignment here on earth? I pray that you will always glorify God with your use of technology and in everything you do, in Jesus' name.

KEY POINT
Let your digital footprint reflect the light of God.

BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: 2 Chronicles 29-31

AUTHOR: PASTOR E. A ADEBOYE


GUIDE ME, O THOU GREAT JEHOVAH!

1. Guide me, O Thou great Jehovah!
Pilgrim through this barren land;
I am weak, but Thou art mighty,
Hold me with Thy powerful hand:
Bread of heaven! Bread of heaven!
Feed me now and evermore (2ce)

2. Open Thou the crystal fountain,
Whence the healing stream doth flow:
Let the fiery, cloudy pillar
Lead me all my journey through:
Strong deliverer! strong deliverer!
Be Thou still my strength and shield (2ce)

3. If I tread the verge of Jordan,
Bid my anxious fears subside:
Bear me through the swelling torrent,
Land me safe on Canaan's side:
Songs of praises! songs of praises!
I will ever give to Thee (2ce)

4. Saviour, come! We long to see Thee,
Long to dwell with Thee above;
And to know in full communion,
All the sweetness of Thy love.
Come, Lord Jesus! Come, Lord Jesus!
Take Thy waiting people home (2ce)

From Rags to Riches:
Inspiring stories of life

1. JAN KOUM
The founder and CEO of WhatsApp emigrated to America from Ukraine when he was 16 years old, initially living on food stamps. In February 2014, Facebook announced its acquisition of WhatsApp for $19billion. He is already $19 billion richer.

2. URSULA BURNS
Ursula Burns, the chairman and CEO of Xerox, was raised by her mother in a New York social housing project. Now she is the first African-American woman to head a Fortune 500 company and Forbes recently labelled her the 22nd most powerful woman in the world.

3. SEAN CONNERY
Sean Connery joined the Royal Navy aged 16 and worked as a bricklayer, coffin polisher and lifeguard before becoming a famous actor.

4. OPRAH WINFREY
Oprah Winfrey was born into poverty and was r***d by a relative when she was just nine years old. By 2003, she had become the first female African-American billionaire.

5. JK ROWLING
JK Rowling was a single mother living on benefits before she found success with the Harry Potter series. She has said she was "as poor as it's possible to be in this country". She is now estimated to be worth at least $1billion.

6. SHANIA TWAIN
According to a biography, Shania Twain grew up in poverty and started singing in bars when she was just eight to try to help support her family. She is thought to have earned more than $350million since.

7. HOWARD SCHULTZ
Billionaire Howard Schultz was raised in a social housing project in Brooklyn, New York, before discovering and becoming CEO and chairman of Starbucks.

8. DHIRUBHAI AMBANI
The popular story about one of India's most successful businessmen is that he started with a single rupee in his hand and ended up as patriarch of the world's second-richest family. The company he founded in 1966, Reliance Industries, now employs 85,000 people and is estimated to contribute around five per cent of the Indian government's total tax revenues.

9. DO WON CHANG
In the early 1980s South Korean-born Chang moved to California, where he and his wife opened a clothes shop named Fashion 21. As the business grew they changed the name to Forever 21. There are currently more than 450 stores worldwide and Chang's personal wealth is estimated at $5.4billion.

10. RALPH LAUREN
Born to Jewish immigrants from Belarus, Ralph Lauren grew up in the Bronx, New York. After discovering his passion was designing clothes he found work at a tie company but found his designs continually rejected. "The world is not ready for Ralph Lauren," the owner of the company once told him. Ralph Lauren responded by founding his own company, one that now employs 19,000 people and has given him a personal fortune of $7billion.
....................................................................................................................
If these ones could make it, you too can. Never allow your not-so-good background hide your abilities and greatness. With hardwork, perseverance, focus and faith in God, you can rise above your limitations and make your mark on the sands of time. The world is waiting to hear your own story, be inspired!

God doesn’t give you a blueprint for your whole life. If you had all the details of what He wants you to do and how it will work out, you wouldn’t need any faith. He’s going to send you out, not knowing everything. To step into the unknown takes boldness. It’s not always going to make sense. Other people may try to talk you out of it. Your own thoughts will ask you, “What if it doesn’t work out?” The psalmist said, “The steps of a good person are ordered by the Lord.” If you take that step, not knowing all the details but trusting that God knows what He’s doing, then each step of the way, there will be provision, favor, and protection. Yes, it’s uncomfortable not knowing the details; you have to stretch, pray, and trust. But with every step, you’ll not only have God’s blessing; you’ll also be growing and getting stronger.

Written By:
VICTORIA OSTEEN

DISCIPLINE IS NOT A GIFT -
IT IS CULTIVATED!

Ladies and gentlemen, let me tell you about the key ingredient for success - discipline! Discipline is not a one-time effort, it is a habit that you need to cultivate and maintain throughout your life. It is the cornerstone of all achievements, both big and small.

Discipline is what sets the winners apart from the losers, the leaders from the followers, and the successful from the mediocre. It's the ability to stay focused on your goals and priorities, even in the face of distractions and obstacles. It's the grit and determination that drives you forward, even when the going gets tough.

Discipline is not something that comes naturally to most people. It's a skill that needs to be honed and practiced every day. It requires sacrifice, hard work, and dedication. But the rewards are worth it. When you have discipline, you are in control of your life. You have the power to create your own destiny, and nothing can stop you from achieving your dreams.

Discipline is not just about sticking to a routine or schedule. It's also about being mindful of your actions and decisions. It's about having the self-awareness to recognize your weaknesses and limitations, and the humility to seek help and guidance when needed. It's about making choices that align with your values and principles, even if they are not popular or convenient.

So, my friends, I urge you to embrace discipline in your life. Make it a habit, a part of your identity. Start small, with simple daily practices like waking up early, exercising, or reading. Build up your discipline muscles gradually, and soon you will find that it permeates every aspect of your life.

Remember, discipline is not a punishment, it's a gift. It's a gift that you give yourself, to achieve the life you want, to be the best version of yourself, and to leave a lasting impact on the world. So, let us all commit to being disciplined, and see how it transforms our lives and the world around us.

Thank you!

IT TAKES A STRONGER POWER ...
The enemy does not submit to you because of your cry, neither does he submit because you can murmur or complain. In fact, your political or social status/ connections are not enough to keep the devil away from you.
The only thing that intimidates satan is the (greater) size of power you carry. Satan weighs our power level almost all the time. He only submits to a higher power. Hear this:-
"... Through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee..."
PS.66:3.
Satan tried Jesus, Matt.4:1-11. He realized a higher power and so he departed but for a while, Lk.4:13.
For you to rule (reign) in the midst of your enemies, you must have a higher power base.
Therefore, to have dominion on the earth, you need to constantly maintain a greater power.
If satan does not test your power, you are insignificant.
Paul said, "that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection ..." Phil.3:10.
The power that raised Jesus from death is that higher (greater) power. It intimidates the devil; it renders his efforts, craftiness, plans, etc, useless. This is the power that satan submits to. See Lk.10:17.

In Lk.10:19, Jesus says:
"Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall by any means hurt you."
Jesus saw the need for us to carry this kind of power. The power that is "over all the power of the enemy."
In Ex.7:12-, Aaron's rod swallowed up the rods of the magicians in Egypt.
In Ex.14:27-30, Moses raised his hand and the sea returned so that the chariots,the horsemen and the host of Pharaoh who pursued hard after the Israelites were drowned in the Red Sea.

Jesus Himself displayed this power maximally on the earth:
- He calmed the storm - Mk4:35-41.
- He healed the sick - Lk.8:43-48, Mk.5:25-34 and several others.
- He raised the dead - Jn.11:38-44.
Just to mention a few.

In Acts 19:11-12, God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul so that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons and the diseases departed from the people and evil spirits went out of them.

The Bible says Elijah was a man subject to like passions as we are but he prayed earnestly that it rained not and so there was no rain for three years and six months - James 5:17.
In 1Kings18:20-40, Elijah destroyed the prophets of Baal.

Whatever is trying to destroy your life and destiny will submit to the power and authority of God in Jesus' name.
It takes a stronger man to bind the strong man and divide his spoils - Mk.3:27 (Matt.12:29).

God bless you!

IT TAKES A STRONGER POWER ...

The enemy does not submit to you because of your cry, neither does he submit because you can murmur or complain. In fact, your political or social status/ connections are not enough to keep the devil away from you.
The only thing that intimidates satan is the (greater) size of power you carry. Satan weighs our power level almost all the time. He only submits to a higher power. Hear this:-
"... Through the greatness of thy power shall thine enemies submit themselves unto thee..."
PS.66:3.
Satan tried Jesus, Matt.4:1-11. He realized a higher power and so he departed but for a while, Lk.4:13.
For you to rule (reign) in the midst of your enemies, you must have a higher power base.
Therefore, to have dominion on the earth, you need to constantly maintain a greater power.
If satan does not test your power, you are insignificant.
Paul said, "that I may know Him and the power of His resurrection ..." Phil.3:10.
The power that raised Jesus from death is that higher (greater) power. It intimidates the devil; it renders his efforts, craftiness, plans, etc, useless. This is the power that satan submits to. See Lk.10:17.

In Lk.10:19, Jesus says:
"Behold, I give unto you power to tread on serpents and scorpions, and over all the power of the enemy; and nothing shall by any means hurt you."
Jesus saw the need for us to carry this kind of power. The power that is "over all the power of the enemy."
In Ex.7:12-, Aaron's rod swallowed up the rods of the magicians in Egypt.
In Ex.14:27-30, Moses raised his hand and the sea returned so that the chariots,the horsemen and the host of Pharaoh who pursued hard after the Israelites were drowned in the Red Sea.

Jesus Himself displayed this power maximally on the earth:
- He calmed the storm - Mk4:35-41.
- He healed the sick - Lk.8:43-48, Mk.5:25-34 and several others.
- He raised the dead - Jn.11:38-44.
Just to mention a few.

In Acts 19:11-12, God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul so that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons and the diseases departed from the people and evil spirits went out of them.

The Bible says Elijah was a man subject to like passions as we are but he prayed earnestly that it rained not and so there was no rain for three years and six months - James 5:17.
In 1Kings18:20-40, Elijah destroyed the prophets of Baal.

Whatever is trying to destroy your life and destiny will submit to the power and authority of God in Jesus' name.
It takes a stronger man to bind the strong man and divide his spoils - Mk.3:27 (Matt.12:29).

God bless you!

*DON'T PULL OVER*

A lady was driving along with her father. They came upon a storm, and the young lady asked her father, What should I do?"
He said "keep driving"..
Cars began to pull over to the side, the storm was getting worse.
"What should I do."
The young lady asked?
"Keep driving," her father replied.
On up a few feet, she noticed that eighteen wheelers were also pulling over.
She told her dad, "I must pull over, I can barely see ahead. It is terrible, and everyone is pulling over!"
Her father told her, "Don't give up, just keep driving!"
Now the storm was terrible, but she never stopped driving, and soon she could see a little more clearly. After a couple of miles she was again on dry land, and the sun came out.
Her father said, "Now you can pull over and get out."
She said "But why now?"
He said "When you get out, look back at all the people that gave up and are still in the storm, because you never gave up, your storm is now over.
This is a testimony for anyone who is going through "hard times".
Just because everyone else, even the strongest, gives up.
You don't have to...if you keep going, soon your storm will be over and the sun will shine upon your face again.
This story touched me!
I hope it touched you!
Feel free to pass it on to some people you know.
Tell them:"Never give up, because GOD will never give up on you.
◆There are times when God will not get you out of the fire furnace, but like *Shadrack, Meshack and Abednego* He will keep the fire from burning you. *Daniel 3.16:27*

◆There are times when He will not keep you out of the lion's den, but, like *Daniel*, He will shut the mouths of the lions for your sake.
*Daniel 6:16-23*

◆Still there are times when He will not keep you out of prison, but, like *Joseph*, He will shower you with immeasurable favour in the prison walls.
*Genesis 39:20-23.*

◆And there are times when He will not take the cup away but, like *Jesus*, will give you the strength to drink from the cup.

But in all these situations, there's a *calm assurance* : " l am with you always, even to the very end" *Matt 28:20.*
Be Blessed and be favoured!

Amen!!! - This is specially for you and your house hold.

Stay Safe

Own It~
"Own the fact that you are different
Own that you are a deep feeler and thinker
Own that you're tuned into a different frequency
Own the fact that you sense things others don't
Own the fact that you want to talk about angels,
energy, miracles and spirituality
Own that you're done having meaningless conversations
Own that you're done holding yourself back
Own that you crave freedom to feel the now
It's ok if your family don't get you.
It's ok if your friends don't join you
It's ok if the world judges you
It's ok that you want to dance barefoot upon the earth
and endlessly gaze at the stars
It's ok that you cry over sunsets and chase moonbeams
It's wonderful in fact. It's beautiful
You have come a long way to be who you are
So own it. Own all of it. Love all of you
The world needs you to be exactly as you are
You hold the balance in this crazy world"

- Eryka Stanton