Open Heavens, March 14th, 2008

BIBLE IN A YEAR: Hosea 8-10

AHEAD OF CHALLENGES

MEMORIZE: "Let us therefore come boldly unto the throne of grace that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need" (Hebrews 4:16)

READ: Exodus 17:1-6

"Make a joyful noise unto the LORD, all ye lands" (Psalm 100:1).

One lesson learnt from the marriage at Cana in Galilee is that God loves celebrations, and He wants all His children to celebrate. Our God is a God of joy, not sorrow. Some people asked why we shout so much in RCCG, and I told them because our God is a God of joy. Although once in a while, believers may meet with circumstances that compel them to be sad, Philippians 4:4 commands them to rejoice in the Lord in spite of prevailing negative circumstances.

Another lesson is that just as Jesus and His mother were there before the problem arose, God has equally provided a solution ever before your problem started. Before the Israelites arrived at Marah, the tree that would turn their bitter water into wine was already growing. Similarly, before Israel thirsted, the rock that should supply water was already there (Exodus 17:1-6). In Judges 15:14-16 when Samson was bound and taken to the camp of his enemies, what he would use in destroying them was already there. Before the widow cried to God for help, the bottle of oil and empty containers through which God would perform the miracle were already there. God is always steps ahead of your challenge or problem. In your present difficulty, God has already provided the solution before hand. It is my prayer that the Lord will open your eyes to locate it now.

After I took over as the General Overseer, I moved from a mansion in the city of Ilorin into a one bedroom apartment in Mushin, Lagos. I was satisfied. When I visited home, a man saw me and suggested that I build a house in my village so that when the need arises, I will have a place to accommodate my friends. He promised to supply the blocks for which I would pay when I am able. It sounded a good idea to me so I got the blocks and started building. While roofing the house, the man sent someone to ask me for the money. Meanwhile, I had nothing left so I looked up to the Lord and told Him I had never gone beyond my ability before and that He should help out. I told the messenger to give me some time. I slept in my office that night. On waking up, a man came asking for the leader of the church. Later he told me he came from the North and that the Lord described the location of the camp to him, and asked him to give me an envelope. After praying for him and releasing him, I opened it and found exactly the N3, 000.00 that I needed. The Lord will make a way for you this season.

ACTIONPOINT
Many people are so close to solutions, yet they die with problems. Ask God to reveal solution to your pressing challenges now.