Connecting with the God of Power. Faith seminar 1.
THE POWER OF FAITH IN AN UNSTABLE ECONOMY
Jeremiah 17:7, 8; Matthew 6:25-33; Habakkuk 3:17-19.
God's promises of prosperity to His faithful children are real and wonderful. (Job 5:19-27; Psalm 33:18-21; 37:3,18,19,25; 3 John 2; Job 8:8; 36:11). These promises hold true, if the conditions are fulfilled. They are as self-existent as God Himself. They are neither dependent on the robustness of the national economy nor constrained by the austerity of a failing economy. Very often, believers permit their faith to undulate with the financial uncertainties around them. Forgetting the exceeding great and precious promises of God in times of economic downturn, they begin to worry, complain, and even resort to cutting corners, just like the unbelievers. This is sad but true. When faith crumbles, fear takes over, leaving a trail of compromise, dishonesty, bribery, unscrupulous business practices in its wake. Christians who fail to live by faith during difficult economic periods soon surrender their long-held scriptural convictions, become unfaithful in their lives, unavailable for God's service, and might even forsake God altogether. But it does not have to be this way. Absolute faith in God's power and faithfulness provides the stability that any believer needs to survive hard times. And, thank God, obtaining that victorious faith is possible to all.
1. THE CHALLENGES AND TESTS OF FAITH IN TIMES OF ECONOMIC DOWNTURN
1 Kings 17:8-12; Genesis 12:10-13; 26:1-3; Proverbs 3:5-7; 2 Corinthians 8:1-5.
Times of economic downturn bring out the best in people of faith and the worst in people ruled by unbelief and fear. In the midst of a severe famine, God directed Elijah to a most unlikely source of daily provision, and he obeyed. That was a test and he passed the test through the obedience of faith. Your faith, obedience, holiness, steadfastness and passion for God, uncompromising conviction, commitment and consecration will be tested in times of sudden economic reverses. Will you still pray then? Will you worship God? Will you stick to holiness principles in your business and professional pursuits? Will you continue to serve God in soulwinning and touching other lives? Or will you go back to Egypt, to the world and worldly principles?
The widow, for her part, was faced with the most seemingly unkind and unreasonable request in the world, "Fear not; go and do as thou hast said: but make me thereof a little cake first, and bring it unto me, and after make for thee and for thy son." And what a test that was! Again, faith triumphed and obedience brought her blessings beyond her imagination. When the economy slows down, many cut down on their giving to God. Some quit giving altogether, forgetting that it could be a test of their faithfulness. As Lynda Randle rightly observes in her song, "We talk of faith way up on the mountain; Talk comes so easy when life's at its best; Now down in the valleys, of trials and temptations; That's when faith is really put to the test.
2. THE CHRISTIAN'S TRIUMPHANT FAITH IN TIMES OF ECONOMIC DEPRESSION.
1 Kings 17:13-16; Genesis 26:1,-3,12-14; Job 22:21-30; Proverbs 10:3-5; Hebrews 6:12.
Financial difficulties bring worry and anxiety, depression, sinful self-management, and even total loss of faith to the unwary. But faith can triumph over every problem. Hard times are when we should particularly draw near to God in prayer, fellowship and the word. We should look for divine directives and the increase of faith. Famine came to Isaac's city; that was not new, so it was with his father, Abraham. Isaac did what most natural men would do, he responded just like his father by preparing to go down to Egypt. Our failures in life are often due to our looking away from God's word, rather looking at the wrong examples in times of life's challenges. God stopped Isaac, "Go not down into Egypt...sojourn in this land..." Faith and obedience triumphed. "Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received IN THE SAME YEAR a hundredfold: and the LORD blessed him."
But wait! The Bible does not teach an idle faith, one that folds its hands in passive expectation, praying without working, claiming the promises of God without going out to "dig for gold". This is not faith, but sheer presumption. The kind of faith that triumphs, "when (other) men are cast down", is faith that holds holiness in one hand and hard work in the other. It is faith with H-O-L-I-N-E-S-S. That is, faith with:
Honesty and Hay-making (seizing opportunities when they arise)
Obedience to God and Openness to change
Love for God and a Lion-heart in business/professional pursuits
Integrity and Industriousness
Non-conformity to the world and Networking with others
Exemplary life and Excellent labour
Scriptural convictions and Success principles
Submission to God and Spiritual warfare against Satanic hindrances
3. THE CHAMPIONS’ TESTIMONY OF FAITHFULNESS THROUGH TIMES OF ECONOMIC DIFFICULTY.
Romans 8:35-39; Psalm 66:10-12; Habakkuk 3:17-19; Job 13:15; 27:4-6; Proverbs 24:10; Psalm 23:1-6.
True faith retains faithfulness to God in the midst of the fiercest storms. Only real faith can sing, For the God on the mountain, is the God in the valley. When things go wrong, He'll make them right. And the God of the good times is still God in the bad times. The God of the day is still God in the night.
Habakkuk and Job lived in the Old Testament but the strength and steadfastness of their faith shames many a New Testament believer. "If thou faint in the day of adversity, thy strength is small." Faith shines the brightest in the night of adversity. Whatever the ding-dong of our economic situation we must keep eyes focused on heaven. But that demands purpose of heart. Businessmen and professionals whose hearts are not fixated on doing the will of God at all times and in all circumstances cannot survive the challenges of a chaotic economy. God wants us to stand, however. We can, we must and by His grace, we will.
Connecting with the God of Power. Faith seminar 2.
THE POWER OF FAITH THAT BREAKS ALL YOKES
Isaiah 10:27; 9:4; Matthew 17:15-20.
A yoke, naturally, is a bar or frame of wood by which two oxen are joined at the heads or necks for working together. When this happens they are bound to move together and one cannot outrun the other even in the face of danger. A yoke ties, binds, chains and imprisons. Figuratively or spiritually speaking, a yoke is a burden, a heavy load that represses or restrains freedom, movement or progress both here and even in eternity. A yoke can be spiritual or physical bondage that ties or entangles an individual, restricting him from onward movement, joy, peace, freedom and progress. There are different kinds of yokes- sin, defeat, bad habits, occultism, infirmity, sicknesses, diseases, oppressions, poverty, indebtedness, etc. You need the power of faith to appropriate the provision of Calvary, using the name of Jesus Christ, to break all your yokes.
1. PAINTING THE PICTURE OF DIFFERENT KINDS OF BONDAGE AND YOKES.
Lam.1:14; Deut. 28:48; 2 Cor. 6:14-16;Gen 27:40; Lev 26:13; Isa. 9:4 ;Gal 5:1 ;Luke 13:16 ;Rom 7:15-25.
The scripture is clear and specific in describing and painting the picture of yokes and bondage. From these scriptural references we can see yokes of transgressions and iniquities (Lam 1:14); yokes of bondage and perpetual servant hood to your enemies (Deu 28:48); unequal yoke with unbelievers (2 Cor 6:14); painful yokes that restrict and hinder dominion(Gen 27:40); yokes that bend you and stop you from going upright(Lev 26:13); burdensome yoke of the oppressor (Isa 9:4); yoke of sicknesses and long standing infirmities (Luke 13:16) etc. The different kinds of yokes can be summed up as follows:
Yoke of transgressions and sin.
Yoke of traumatic servant hood to Satan.
Yoke of torment and suffering.
Yoke of turbulence, pestilence and sicknesses.
Yoke of territorial spirit.
Yoke of truncating success.
Yoke of terrestrial (worldly) slavery.
Yoke of troubles and torture by satanic agents.
Yoke of tactical occultism and syncretism.
Some are under the yoke of fear, unbelief, worry, anxiety, alcohol, drugs, homosexuality, masturbation, pornography, strange voices etc. Whatsoever yoke you find yourself in, the power of genuine repentance and faith in Christ can set you free today.
2. PREVAILING POWER OF FAITH THAT BREAKS EVERY YOKE. Isa 9:4; 10:27; Matthew 17:15-20; Mark 11:21-24; Heb. 11:1; 32-34; Eph. 6:10-18; 2 Cor. 10:3-5; 1 John 5:4, 5 Matthew 18:18.
The power of God's unchanging word can break every yoke and remove every mountain. There is nothing faith can not do. Faith has opened prison doors, divided the red sea, conquered Goliath, shut up the mouth of lions, put to flight the armies of the aliens, raised the dead, cleansed the lepers, opened the blind eyes, made short legs to grow out, delivered the insane and the lunatic, turned curses to blessings, opened barren wombs, reversed abject poverty to great prosperity, restored backsliders to real saints and a lot more. What can faith not do for you today!
All that is required from you by God is:
Seek the God of faith.
Search the word of faith.
Speak the language of faith.
Separate from men of fear.
Stay with the people of faith.
Study books and listen to messages on faith.
Supplicate in faith.
3. PARTNERSHIP WITH THE GOD OF ALL POSSIBILITIES FOR BREAKING ALL YOKES.
Jere 32:27, 17; Mark 10:27; Luke 1:37; Isa 42:15,16; 44:8; John 15:1-7.
The source and origin of faith is God Himself. Jesus says “without me ye can do nothing” Real faith can not be detached from God. It is God that imparts, inspires and increase true faith. The heroes of faith in Hebrews 11 were all in partnership with God – Enoch walked with God and pleased Him, Noah was righteous in his own generation, Abraham was a friend of God, Isaac was surrendered and submissive to the will of God, Moses was an obedient man of God and all the rest were yielded to God and attached to Him. Any faith that is not in partnership with God is a dead and isolated faith. Such faith can not break any yoke because it is powerless and ineffective. Genuine faith begins at salvation and total freedom from sin and keeps growing through fellowship with God, prayer, study of the scriptures and positive confession. So there must be:
Conversion to faith.
Confession of faith.
Consecration by faith.
Consistency of faith.
Communication through faith.
Commitment of faith and
Continuation in faith.
Connecting with the God of Power. Faith seminar 3.
THE WORD OF FAITH THAT RELEASES GOD’S BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS
2 Kings 6: 25-33; 7: 1-8, 16-20; Luke 5:1-9; 2 Chronicles 20:20; Proverb 12:14, 18.
Faith in God is indispensable in our walk with God and our provision in life. Faith is wonderful but unless it is released through words of God’s unfailing promises. Faith in the heart is powerless unless released through the spoken word of God. ʺBut what saith it? The word is nigh thee, even in thy mouth, and in thy heart: that is, the word of faith, which we preach; That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation.ʺ(Romans 10: 8-10). Faith is of the heart, it only when faith is spoken that the power of God will accomplish what is declared. The word of faith spoken by Elisha in the face of hopelessness in Samaria brought bountiful blessings to the people. The word of faith spoken by our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ changed the situation of Peter after toiling throughout the night without any catch. Faith speaks, release your faith in the promises of God, say what God said about your case and experience supernatural blessings in your life today.
1. THE PLACE OF THE WORD OF FAITH IN OUR WALK WITH GOD.
Hebrew 11: 6; Mark 11: 22-24; 9: 17-23; Matthew 17: 20; Luke 17: 6; John 11:40.
Our God is a God of faith, He created the universe by faith and anyone that will walk with here on earth must walk by faith. For we(children of God) by faith and not by sight, to please Him. Our entry and acceptance into the kingdom of God is through faith. For by grace are ye saved through faith (Ephesians 2:8); we are sanctified through faith, ʺAnd God, which knoweth the hearts bare them witness, giving them the Holy Ghost, even as he did unto us; And put no difference between us and them, purifying their hearts by faithʺ(Acts 15:8,9). Abraham, Noah, Enoch, Moses, Joshua, Caleb, David,Peter, Paul and everyone that made impact in the kingdom of God walked by faith. The heart-cry of God today is the need for believers that will walk by faith with Him. You can ffulfil His heart-cry today and experience bountiful blessings.
2. THE NEGATIVE EFFECTS OF WALKING AND SPEAKING THE WORD OF DOUBT AND UNBELIEF.
2 Kings 7: 1-2,16-20; Numbers 13: 26-29, 31-33; 14:1-4; Proverb 18: 21.
Just as faith speaks the word of faith, unbelief and doubt also speak. The man on whose hand the king leaned saw the bountiful blessing but could not eat out of it because of unbelief and doubt. It is not the magnitude of the challenges, problems, enemies, sickness, disease, etc facing a child of God that matter but what is in your heart- the word of the unfailing God or of man. Unbief and doubt are great enemies preventing God’s own people from enjoying the bountiful blessings that belong to them. Therefore to rout out unbelief and doubt from the heart, (i) read the word of God to find out what He had said about you(Luke 4:16-21), (ii) meditate on the word of God daily (Joshua 1:8; Psalm 1:1-3), (iii) renew your mind with the word of God to come into agreement with the will of God(Roman 12: 2), (iv) believe the word of God in spite of the situations(2 Chronicles 20:20), (v) resist every doubt and unbelief because they are of the devil (1 Peter 5:8,9), (vi)walk with those who believe God(Hebrews 6:12-15), (vii) holdfast to the proclamation of your faith(Hebrews 10: 23)and (viii)exercise your faith in every little challenge(Luke 1: 45).
3. BOUNTIFUL BLESSINGS THROUGH RELEASING THE WORD OF FAITH WITH YOUR MOUTH.
Mark 11: 22-24; Job 22: 28, Proverb 18:20; Acts 3: 1-10; 2 Kings 7: 1; 1 Samuel 17:32-37, 45-50; 1 Kings 17:13-16; Mark 5:25-34.
We living in a period people crying because of biting economic recession but a child of God holding on the promises of God and speaking the word of faith despite the challenging conditions will have every need supplied by God. To have bountiful blessings today, you must speak out the word of faith with your mouth. Jesus declared ʺFor verily l say unto you, that whosoever shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea, and shall not doubt in his heart , but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass, he shall have whatsoever he saithʺ (Mark11:23). You must say it, believe it and then you will have whatsoever you are asking from God. David applied the principle and conquered Goliath, Elijah did the same and received sufficient food to sustain him and family of the widow, Elisha brought from heaven bountiful blessing to Samaria through the same method. Now is your own turn to possess bountiful blessings through the release of the word of faith.
Connecting with the God of Power. Faith seminar 4.
THE FAITH THAT WILL NOT TAKE NO FOR AN ANSWER
Hebrews 11:33-35; Matthew 15:21-28; 9:20-22.
There comes a time in life when nothing else will rescue or bring deliverance from a dangerous and desperate situation except the faith that will not take no for an answer. There are different levels of faith, but the faith that will not take no for an answer stands high in a class by itself. The Woman of Canaan manifested this kind of faith when for three times she refused to give in both to the Lord's silence and His two statements of denial until The Lord saw and said "O woman, great is thy faith: be it unto thee even as thou wilt." (Matthew 16:28). That is the faith that has an unbendable 'will' for answer and solution from The Lord by all means and at all cost. "as thou wilt". It is the kind of faith founded on a resolute decision from within like the Woman with the 12 years issue of blood who "...said within herself, If I may but touch his garment, I shall be whole." (Matthew 9:22). This was why all the pressures and setbacks from the crowd could not stop her till she had secured the touch that made her whole. This faith speaks in prayer like Jacob "... I will not let thee go, except thou bless me." (Genesis 32:26).
The faith that will not be denied does not only pray till The Lord responds, it resolves to pay any price it will take while willingly surrendering to any divine condition as long as the answer is guaranteed. But on the long run, the rewards and blessings secured by the faith that will not take no for an answer is far greater than whatever price and sacrifice paid. The possessors of this kind of faith are notable and recognized before the Throne of heaven. These are those who are capable of changing their own destiny for good, turn things around in the Kingdom of God, destroy the purposes and plans of Satan and his cohorts, altar the course of events in life, bring joy and blessings to others and cause the glory of the Almighty God to shine far and wide. You must decide to develop and operate in this kind of faith to overcome your present predicaments and be ready to face whatever problem may rear up its ugly head in the future.
1. PROBLEMS AND MOUNTAINS FOR THE FAITH THAT CANNOT BE DENIED.
Mark 11:23; Jonah 3:4-10; Isaiah 6:5-7; 2 Kings 20:1-3; Matthew 15:24-28; Genesis 32:6-8, 24-26; Mark 10:46-52; 1 Samuel 1:5-10; 1Kings 18:41-43; 1 Chronicles 4:9,10.
There are problems and mountains that come in life that the use of both medical, monetary, managerial and any other means for solution will appear useless and futile. When Esau, an age-long enemy of Jacob stood on his way with four-hundred men against him, all else could have failed him except the faith that will not take no for answer. What else could have delivered Hezekiah from the divine sentence of death than to face God and God alone without thinking of any other way of intervention? What are the situations calling for the exercise of the faith that will not take no for answer?
These includes: i. Divine sentence of judgement because of sin and wickedness. ii. Depravity of the sinful nature in the heart. iii. Death revealed or pronounced from above or by the devil. iv. Diseases that has defied all medications and medical help v. Deadly enemies on your way of progress. vi. Demonic cases of oppression, obsession and attacks. vii. Delayed rain of blessings and productivity. viii. Defect or infection in the womb or in the man causing barrenness in the family. ix. Dilemma or confusion in knowing the will of God in marriage. x. Destroyed business fortune; which causes cannot be understood.
When such problems and mountains are steering at you on the face, you have no other choice than to exercise the faith that will not take no for an answer. It is only by this you can be delivered.
2. PRINCIPLES OF MANIFESTING THE FAITH THAT MUST GET ITS DEMANDS.
Jeremiah 29:13, 14; Isaiah 38:1-3; Matthew 15:21-28; Genesis 32:24-29; Mark 10:46-52; 1 Kings 18:41-45; Romans 4:18-21; Mark 11:23; Acts 27:25; Mark 2:3-12; 5:25-34; 2 Chronicles 20:20-25.
A number of people manifested the faith that will not take no for an answer in the Bible, some of who are ordinary common men including women. The Woman of Canaan brought her daughter grievously vexed with a devil to The Lord Jesus. At first He gave her no answer. Then the disciples talked of sending her away, and yet she will not be deterred. The Lord made it clear she was not of the household of Isreal to whom He was sent. Hearing this, she worshipped; to show The Lord that she was ready to become part of Isreal. Then the Lord said you are not qualified as a dog to get the children's bread of healing. To this she replied, as a dog I can partake of the crumbs under the table. She was so humble to accept being a dog and willing even to repent if that is what it will take to get her daughter healed. The Lord saw this great faith which will not be denied in her and said; "...be it unto thee as thou wilt."
What are the principles of operating in this faith? i. Sanctified Person. (2 Kings 20:3). You must be able to say I have walked with you in truth and with a perfect heart like Hezekiah. If you are in sin you must repent first, clean up and clear your life as a foundation of this faith. ii. Scriptures promises. (Isaiah 43:26). Take hold of the promises of God that match the situation at hand and put God in remembrance of them. iii, Steadfast Prayers that prevails. (Mark 10:46-52). You persevere in prayer until the assurance is obtained like Jacob in Jabbok, Elijah at Camel, Hannah in Shiloh and Bartimaeus the son of Timaeus. iv. Strong persuasion. (Romans 4:18-21). Like Abraham you are fully persuaded in your mind not looking at the negative physical signs around you. v. Speaking positively. (Mark 11:23). The words of your mouth are positive matching your conviction and the confessions you uttered during prayers. vi. Stepping out practically. (Make 2:3-12; acts 27:25). Take steps of faith not minding negative signs you may see. vii. Singing praises. (2 Chronicles 20:20-25). Giving glory to God before you see the miracles show you are not taking no for answer having counted it done. With these, your answer is sure you cannot be denied.
3. PRODUCTS AND MIRACLES OF THE FAITH THAT GOT ITS DESIRES.
Hebrews 11:32-36; Mark 2:5,11,12; Isaiah 6:7; Isaiah 38:5; Matthew 15:28; 1 Samuel 1:20, 26; 1 Kings 18:45; Genesis 32:28; 33:3,4; Mark 5:34; 10:52.
With the faith that cannot be denied which will not take no for an answer, all things are possible. By this faith, pronounced judgement can be reversed and pardon obtained. The heart can be purified instantly. Imminent death can be averted, chronic and terminal disease can be healed. The demon possessed can receive deliverance, and all satanic manifestation and manipulation cleared away. All close doors to progress will be opened and all sorrows turned to joy. The barren will become a joyful mother of children while the unmarried will be given in marriage. Enemies indignation will melt away and favour like the latter rain will fall unhindered. Light will shine once again in the dark and obscurity will fade away. Breakthroughs and turning point in life becomes easy and achievable.
This is why you need to seek The Lord to turn your situation around by the faith that will not take no for answer. "For thus saith the LORD unto the house of Israel, Seek ye me, and ye shall live: Seek him that maketh the seven stars and Orion, and turneth the shadow of death into the morning, and maketh the day dark with night: that calleth for the waters of the sea, and poureth them out upon the face of the earth: The LORD is his name: That strengtheneth the spoiled against the strong, so that the spoiled shall come against the fortress." (Amos 5:4,8,9). Arise and cause a change by the faith that will not accept no for an answer.
Connecting with the God of Power. Faith seminar 5.
THE TONGUE OF FAITH THAT PRODUCES POSITIVE RESULT
2 Kings 4:16-17, 23, 26, 36-37; Matthew 8:8; Mark 5:25-34; 10:46-52.
Our needed miracles are nearer to us than we expect. Most of the time they elude us due to the condition of our heart, and the confession of our tongue. What one thinks on is what he confesses, and what he confesses is what he possesses. The Bible says, … as he thinketh in his heart, so is he… (Proverbs 23:7). The Bible further discloses that... out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh (Matthew 12:33-35). The tongue of faith produces positive result, as we saw in the life of Elisha who told the Shunammite woman that her barrenness and childlessness had come to an end (2 Kings 4:16-17). God always honours the words of faith spoken by His children.
For a tongue to be filled with faith, it must be purged (Isaiah 6:6-7). An unclean and defiled tongue cannot produce faith (Isaiah 6:5). Furthermore, the tongue most be put under control (psalm 34:13; Proverbs 13:3; 21:23; James 1: 26; I Peter 3:10).
1. DEFINATION OF FAITH
Hebrews 11:1; 2 Kings 4:23, 26; Matthew 8:8; Mark 5:25-28; 10:46-48.
Dictionary defines faith as believe in or trust in somebody or something, specially without logical proof. While the Bible defines it as... the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen (Hebrews 11:1). Faith is absolute trust and confidence in God. It further means firm, strong persuasion and expectation that God will perform all that He has promised. It is respecting the word and promises of God more than feelings, facts, symptoms and situations (Romans 4:20-21). Faith can also be defined as:
Forsaking
All
I
Trust
Him
2. DEVELOPMENT OF FAITH.
Luke 17:5; Mark 9:23-24; Romans 10:17; Mark 5:27; 10:47.
There are two types of faith: (a) the weak faith, and (b) strong faith. Weak faith regards and respects problems more than the promises of God (Matthew 14:30). It makes negative confessions and it is not stable (James 1:6-8). While strong faith looks beyond the natural; holds to the supernatural, irrespective of feelings, verdicts and facts (Romans 4:20,21).
Strong faith can be developed through hearing the word of God (Romans 10:17). Also, hearing of the testimonies of others will stir ones faith to grow (Mark 5:25-27; 10:46-48). If one hears negative stories always, his faith will never grow.
Furthermore, strong faith can be developed through prayers (Mark 9:23-24). Developed faith will enable one enjoy God’s promises, blessings and miracles (Luke 7:50;8:48; 17:19; 18:42). Developed faith will make it possible for one to do all things (Philippians 4:13). Among other things, it will enable one to receive (a) Justification (Romans 5:1); (b) Sanctification and other experiences (Galatians 3:6; Philippians 3:9); (c) it gives victory (I John 5:4); (d) it quenches the fiery darts of the enemy (Eph. 6:16).
3. DEMONSTRATION OF FAITH.
1 Samuel 17:37, 45-50; Matthew 17:20; 21:21; Mark 5:25-34; 10:46-52; 11:22-24; Luke 17:6.
Our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ, is worried that faith is lacking in the tongue, life and ministry of believers today (Mark 4:40). Demonstration of faith means saying what the word of God says without doubt or unbelief. It is believing the promises of God and appropriating or proclaiming them without alteration or modification. However a sinner, hypocrite or backslider cannot demonstrate faith or speak the word of faith. Even if he speaks, it will not produce any positive result (Acts 19:13-16).
Demonstrated word of faith can deliver the oppressed, defeat the enemy and destroy all the works of Satan.
Connecting with the God of Power. Christian Living Seminar 1.
POWER WITH GOD THROUGH HOLY LIVING.
Isaiah 52:11; 2 Timothy 2:19-21.
Power means the ability, strength and capacity to do something or control and influence other people and their actions. The exercise of all true power rests in the hand of God alone for ever. (Psalm 62:11; Matthew 28:18). He has the power to Redeem the soul of men (Romans 1:4); Rescue the perishing (Acts 10:35); Revive the spiritual dead (Ephesians 2:1); Regulate the life of all men (Acts 9:1-9); and elevate and Reward His children (Ephesians 1:19). He gives it to whomsoever He will. However, He will not entrust it into the hands of evil men, because power in their hands is a curse. He gives the power to His Children who have surrendered their heart, life and will to Him. (John 1:12); He gives the power to those whose names are written in the book of life (Luke 10:20). Sinners' names cannot be in the book of life (Exodus 32:33; Psalm 69:27-28). Those whose names are written in the book of life, are those whose sins have been washed and cleansed with the blood of Jesus Christ (Philippians 4:3). They are referred to as disciples of Jesus Christ and they are the ones He gives the power (Matthew 10:1; Luke 9:1).
1. THE DEFINITE POSSIBILITIES OF A HOLY LIFE.
Genesis 32:28; 33:1-4; Micah 3:8; Acts 1:8; 4:33; 19:11-12; Mark 1:23-27; John 8:46; Prov. 29:1.
The importance of a holy life cannot be over- emphasized. A holy life is awesome, powerful and unbeatable. It is a life that attracts the presence and power of God. It is a life that Satan cannot fault or condemn. Satan and his cohorts fear those living a holy life (Mark 1:23,24; 6:20).
Holy life has great possibilities. It enables one to prevail over whatever comes his way as a challenge. Among other things, it gives the believer:
1.The power of illumination (John 8:12)
2.The power of inspiration (Acts 4:13)
3.The power of intelligence (Acts 6:10)
4.The power of impartation (John 14:12)
5.The power of illustration (Acts 4:33)
6.The power of Intuition (Acts 5:3,4)
7.The power of instruction (Micah 3:8; Acts 1:8; 4:31)
2. THE DANGER OF POWER WITHOUT HOLY LIVING.
Judges 16:20; Acts 19:13-16; Matthew 7:22,23; Psalm 36:2; Isaiah 44:20; Galatians 6:3; James 1:26; Revelation 3:17.
The intention and desire to manifest God's Power without a corresponding holy life is very dangerous. Also manifestation of the gifts of the Spirit without the grace and fruit of the Spirit is damnable. God is no respecter of persons. He hates sin with a perfect hatred. He judges sins and punished sinners adequately. Whosoever lives in sin and claims to be doing exploits for the Lord shall have no part in the Kingdom of God.
All of them will end their journey like Samson and Balaam who were disappointed, disgraced, denied, debased and died an untimely and shameful death (Numbers 23:10; 31:8).
3. THE DEMONSTRATION OF POWER THROUGH HOLY LIVING.
Luke 10:17; Psalm 91:13; Mark 16:17,18; 1 John 3:8; Colossians 2:15; Matthew 10:1; Luke 9:1; 10:19; Romans 16:20.
The power of God cannot be obtained through rituals or fasting and praying with a defiled heart. Also it cannot be secured with money (Acts 8:18-23). It is only true genuine conversion and holy living that God will release the power (Act 2:38-39).
The disciples of Jesus Christ who received the Power, demonstrated and had this testimony to give (Luke 10:17). This is a confirmation of the promise of God to His empowered Saints (Mark 16:17-18).
Jesus Christ came to bruise Satan's head as was promised in Genesis 3:15; 1 John 3:8. He successfully achieved this in Colossians 2:15. He has empowered us His disciples to go and destroy all the activities of Satan and his agents (Matthew 10:1; Luke 9:1; 10:19). He assured us of total victory (Romans 16:20). If you are a recipient of the power of God, why are you still sitting down, rise up and demonstrate the power of God upon your life.
Connecting with the God of Power. Christian Living Seminar 2.
BINDING THE STRONG MAN TO CONNECT THE GOD OF POWER
Mathew 12:28, 29; 16:19; 18:18; Mark 3:27.
Jesus made reference to a wicked, stubborn, Satanic and diabolical personality in Mathew 12:29 as a strong man. This strong being has determined to hold humanity captive and hinder every good blessing of God that is meant for them. He binds men and women; he blinds them and blocks their ways to the throne of grace for the Supernatural. This ancient dragon, called Satan or the devil has refused to release his captives since the fall of man in the Garden of Eden. He has vowed to stop Christian pilgrims from connecting the God of power in order to possess their possessions. But thanks be to God, the stronger than the strong man came and triumphantly disgraced the strong man, bound him and openly conquered him on the cross where He declared that "It is finished!" Now, through his victory on the cross, we can authoritatively bind the strong man, the devil, that old serpent and all his agents in order to connect the God of power for the Supernatural and the extra-ordinary.
Today, whatsoever you bind on earth shall be bound in heaven and whatsoever you loose on earth shall be loosed in heaven (Mathew 18:18).
1. CHARACTER OF THE STRONG MAN AS PORTRAYED IN THE SCRIPTURES.
Mathew 12:29; Mark 3:27; 1Chron. 21:1; Job 2:7; Isa 14:12,17; John 10:10; Mathew 4:24; Luke 13:16.
The strong man referred to by Jesus in our text is the devil, Satan, that wicked one. He is totally evil, completely wicked and wholly anti-God. He hates every human being with absolute hatred. He has no good intention for anyone. He is the thief that comes to steal, kill and destroy (John 10:10). He deceives people by presenting attractive toys which serve as a trap to drag them into long term captivity, perversion, pollution, sinfulness, oppression, affliction, bondage, imprisonment, slavery, suffering, sicknesses, torment and pains in this present evil world and into eternal and everlasting doom in the hereafter. This strongman is characterized and described in the scriptures as follows:-
i. Cunning serpent. Gen 3:1-2.
ii. Opposer. 1 Chr 21:1.
iii. Enemy. Mathew 13:25, 28,39; Luke 10:19.
iv. Adversary. 1Peter 5:8.
v. Thief. John 10:10.
vi. Killer. John 10:10.
vii. Destroyer. John 10:10; 1Cor. 5:5.
viii. Tempter. Mathew 4:3; 1Thess 3:5.
ix. Deceiver. Rev. 12:9; 2Cor. 11:14.
x. Murderer. John 8:44.
x. Accuser. Rev. 12:9-12.
x. Liar. John 8:44; 2Thess 2:9.
x. Wicked one. Mathew 13:19.
x. god of this world. 2 Cor. 4:4.
x. Usurper. Isaiah 14:12-17.
x. Jailer. Luke 13:16; Rev. 2:10; Isa 14:12,17.
x. Tormentor. Mathew 8:6; Luke 9:42.
x. Sifter. Luke 22:31.
x. Hinderer. 1Thess 2:18.
x. Oppressor. Acts 10:38; Mathew 4:24. Etc.
But we thank God that if you are a born again child of God, you have the power to conquer, capture, defeat and bind the strongman in order to connect the God of power. Through the name of Jesus, the blood of Jesus, the Word of God and the power of the Spirit, the adversary and the strong man can be removed out of the way.
2. CONQUERING THE STRONG MAN THROUGH THE POWER OF THE SPIRIT
Mathew 12:29; Mark 3:27; Mathew 16:19; Luke 4:18; Acts 10:38; Acts 13:6-12; Luke 9:38,39,42,43; 13:11-13; Mark 5:1-9,13-15; Isa 10:27; Zechariah 4:6,7; 2Cor 10:3-5
Children of God who understand spiritual warfare must realize that there are battles raging in the spirit world. The devil is behind all the mysterious sicknesses, afflictions, oppressions, spiritual defeat, backsliding, Lukewarmness, iniquities, hardness of sinners' heart, closed doors, and evil happenings around the world. We must know our authority to take charge, bind and loose, conquer and demolish every plant that our heavenly Father has not planted so that we can freely connect the God of power for all His provisions for us (Mathew 15:13). We must employ all our spiritual weapons to fight against the principalities and powers, rulers of darkness of this world and the spiritual wickedness in high places (Eph 6:10-18).
This can only be done through the power of the Spirit, not our natural courage, wisdom or intelligence. You must operate under the power and anointing of the Spirit that breaks the yoke and remove mountains, (Isa 10:27; Zech. 4:6,7) before you can bind the strong man. This comes after genuine scriptural salvation, entire sanctification, holiness of life and heart as well as enduement of power from on high (baptism or immersion in the Holy Spirit). Stand for your right, conquer the strong man and take your possession today.
3. CONNECTING THE GOD OF POWER FOR THE SUPERNATURAL.
Jeremiah 32:27,27; Isa 44:24-27; Mathew 28:18; Mark 10:27; Luke 1:37.
To connect the God of power, you must come into true relationship with the Almighty, All-powerful and the never failing God. The man that is into real partnership and fellowship with the Creator of the universe can never lack the power of God that breaks every yoke and opens every door. He says "I am the Lord, the God of all flesh; is there anything too hard for me?" (Jeremiah 32:27). Obviously, there is nothing too hard for Him (vs 17). He can save, He can sanctify, prosper, provide, open your closed door, give children to the barren, make impossibility possible, turn your darkness to light. He can do all things. He can show you His supernatural. You only need to connect Him through:
i) Salvation and pardon from all your Sins. Isa 55:6-7; 1John 3:7-10.
ii) Sanctification and Righteousness. 1Thess 5:22-24; 1Peter 1:14-16.
iii) Spirit baptism and enduement with power. Luke 24:49; Acts 13:9-12.
iv) Supplication and prayers. Jeremiah 33: 3; Ephesians 6:18.
v) Systematic study of His Word. 2 Tim 2:15; John 5:39.
vi) Steadfast fellowship with Him and His Church. Rev 1:10; Acts 2:42.
vii) Scriptural faith in the God of power who can do all things. Acts 27:23-25.
Connecting with the God of Power. Christian Living Seminar 3.
MAINTAINING THE FAITH OF OUR FATHERS FOR ALL-ROUND SUCCESS
Hebrews 11:1,2,6; Jude 3; Jeremiah 35:1-10,18,19.
It is possible to talk much about faith and yet fail to come any close to the faith of the Bible. That is the tragedy of the universal church today. Today’s “faith preachers” only present a boisterous, immature, limited, and fair-weather faith that is not rooted in total reliance on the God that cannot fail. Their brand of faith is so far from the faith of our fathers that was grounded in personal faithfulness to God even in tough situations. Saints of old believed God for great miracles but also pursued obedience and conformity to God’s will with equal passion. What is the faith of our fathers? It is faith that strengthens us to maintain the faith, the full body of God’s revealed truth in the face of life challenges.
The impatient, flippant and unstable faith so common today is not the faith of our fathers. It is not the real faith of Abraham that promptly, unquestioningly obeyed God's seemingly impossible commands (Hebrews 11:8,17). Nor is it the purifying faith of Enoch that walked with God without falling out of step even once in all of 300 years (Hebrews 11:5). Today’s faith is not the uncompromising faith of Moses that refused to surrender his convictions and godly heritage in Egypt (Hebrews 11:24-27). Moses sacrificed worldly position, prestige, power, everything, to retain his fellowship with God and his brethren. Like others before him, he attained real success on the strength of a vibrant, practically living faith. This is the real faith, the type demonstrated by the Rechabites (Jeremiah 35). This is faith that moves God into action for His people and secures success that cannot be denied.
1. THE TEST OF FAITH AND CONVICTION IN THE RECHABITES.
Jeremiah 35:1-10; Proverbs 22:28; Deuteronomy 19:14; Jude 3.
In the Rechabites, God throws a challenge to every group of believers that profess faith. Jonadab their father had lived and died 300 years before Jeremiah came. Before he died, Jonadab had prescribed and established a code of lifestyle for his descendants. It was he, not necessarily God, that commanded his children not to drink any kind of wine, whether fresh or fermented. And yet, three hundred years later, the sons of Jonadab were still living in absolute obedience to their fathers' commandment. They had an:
Illustrious faith: a shining example of real faith that remains steadfast through the years for by it they "obtained a good report" (Hebrews 11:2). Jonadab had died hundreds of years before this generation of his children; they had no first-hand contact with him. Yet, the faith he had passed down to them controlled their lives and practices still. It is very hard, almost impossible, to find a greater challenge than this (2 Timothy 1:13,14; 3:10,13,14). By God’s grace, we too can remain true to the message and lifestyle of holiness and sanctification until Jesus comes.
Incorruptible faith: their faith triumphed over the temptation to compromise. They remained steadfastly incorruptible even when offered a wrong alternative by two men of God (Jeremiah and Hanan) and, in the very house of God. The real faith is that which remains pure when all the conditions are favourable to becoming impure (Genesis 39:7-10; Proverbs 1:10; 4:14,15).
Infectious faith: "Thus have we obeyed the voice of Jonadab the son of Rechab our father…we, our wives, our sons, nor our daughters". Wonderful! The sons of Rechab married only women that were willing to accept their conviction and lifestyle. Later, as sons and daughters came into their marriages they were brought up with the same set of convictions. Theirs was not an impotent faith lacking impact and influence (Genesis 18:19 cp. 19:14,26)
Unguarded and unscriptural cross-marriages have always been one of the sources of corruption of values and convictions in the Church. God vehemently warns against it (Deuteronomy 7:1-4; Judges 3:5-8; 2 Corinthians 6:14-17).
2. TESTIMONIES OF FAITH AND COURAGE IN THE REDEEMED.
Jeremiah 35:8; Daniel 1:5,8; 3:16-18; 6:10,11; Genesis 39:7-9; Acts 5:27-29; Hebrews 11:32-35.
Real faith goes beyond mere good-times expectations of happy occurrences. It is not the soft, delicate, pacifist faith that borders on compromise. It is proved in the fires of opposition and confrontation. It subdues the kingdoms of darkness and error around us, establishes righteousness in the home and work place, obtains incredible promises in times of need, and stops the mouths of Satan and his agents in our lives. The faith that wins with God is dominion faith, dynamic faith, delivering faith, defensive faith, dependable faith, developing faith and daily faith.
Men of faith and courage like Daniel and his three companions, Joseph and Paul are celebrated but their success was hard-won. To join their ranks we need:
* Conversion to the faith. (Galatians 1:23).
* Commitment to the faith. (1 Corinthians 16:13).
* Continuation in the faith. (Acts 14:22).
* Connection with the faithful. (Ephesians 4:13).
* Contention for the faith. (Jude 3; 1 Timothy 6:12).
* Confidence of faith. (Ephesians 3:11,12).
* Confession of faith. (2 Corinthians 4:13.
3. THE TRIUMPH OF FAITH AND COMMITMENT OF THE REMNANT.
Jeremiah 35:18,19; Genesis 22:15-18; 25:11; 26:3-5,24; Isaiah 41:8,10-13; Galatians 3:9,14.
The Rechabites were a mere remnant, an uncommon breed in their days. Yet, their father's faith, replicated in them, could not fail to get God's attention and approval. For maintaining the faith of Jonadab their father, God pronounced an eternal blessing on the children. Likewise, all Abraham's descendants by blood and by faith continue to enjoy innumerable promises of grace "because that Abraham obeyed my voice, and kept my charge". Like them, we have "a goodly heritage" in the Bible Church. We may be a remnant, a minority, but so were the Rechabites, and they were blessed nonetheless. If we remain steadfast and true to the unchanging truths of God's word, in holiness of heart and righteousness of life, in obedience to divine directives and commitment to the doctrine which is according to godliness, in following the pattern of life and teaching of a godly leadership, that connects us to the unlimited promises of success, victory, provision, promotion, deliverance, dominion and answered prayers. “Then”, says God, “I will be an enemy unto thine enemies, and an adversary unto thine adversaries.”
Connecting with the God of Power. Christian Living Seminar 4.
OVERCOMING LIFE’S CHALLENGES THROUGH THE POWER OF GOD
Daniel 3:13-30; Job 14:1; Psalm 34:19; 2 Kings 20:1-7.
The Christian life is a race which must be run with determination. The journey is often punctuated with challenges. During these challenges, the believer needs to exercise faith in the power of God to triumph. It is peculiar to all human beings to go through times of trials and troubles in life. (Job 14:1). As long as one is living, challenges are bound to come, but your reaction to the challenges facing you will show if you will overcome them or you will fall a victim.
All the saints that have gone before us had their own share of life-time challenges. Jacob was confronted and withstood by his brother Esau over an enmity of about 20 years. The three Hebrews children faced fiery persecution from Nebuchadnezzar and by their faith in God were not burnt. Hezekiah was faced with the challenge of imminent death and his life got prolonged by fifteen more years when he sought God. The woman with the issue of blood got healed by the touch of faith. How about many who were barren and God eventually blessed them with children later? These and more are examples of life's battles with testimonies of triumph through them all. God's power that gave them the victory has not changed and will work for you as you connect with Him.
1. CERTAINTY OF CONFRONTATIONS WITH LIFE’S CHALLENGES.
Job 14:1, Hebrews 11:32-37; John 16:33; Psalm 34:19; 2 Timothy 3:12-14; Ephesians 6:12; Rom 8:35-39.
According to the scriptures, challenges are common experiences of true believers. The fall of man into sin brought man face to face with troubles and battles in life. Because of sin, the curse came upon all men. How then can man be freed from challenges? With the presence of Satan, the arch enemy of man, challenges must come. Jesus said, in the world we will have tribulations, but we should be of good cheers because He has overcome the world for us. The host of demonic forces is also bringing untold afflictions, oppressions and attacks on men and can instigate sinners to persecute believers too.
Wicked men and women are sometimes the causes of life's challenges and battles for the innocent. There are unreasonable and wicked men who have not faith and are sometimes unsparing in bringing fellow men under troubles and attacks. (2 Thessalonians 3:2). Apart from all these factors and causes of life's challenges, natural catastrophes, accidents, calamities and distresses can bring challenges to people's lives. Moreover, personal negligence and carelessness can also be the causes of some life's challenges.
Life's challenges has no end. They may range from persecutions and temptation to poverty, diseases, barrenness, demonic attacks, joblessness, sudden loss of job, failures, perpetual state of debts, marital and family troubles, threats of death, loss of loved ones, court cases, to mention just a few. The question is, are you free from life's challenges? What is your reaction to the challenges? Some people pass blames instead of facing life’s challenges wisely. Some face the challenges with carnal weapons. But true children of God should put their trust in the Lord in times of life's challenges. All the challenges you are facing will soon come under your feet as you connect with God's power here.
2. CATALOGUE OF CONTENDERS WITH LIFE’S CHALLENGES.
Genesis 32:6-32; 25:29-33; 39:7-12; 1 Samuel 1:5-18; 17:41-51; 2 Kings 20:1-11; Daniel 3:11-30; 6:4-10, Esther 3:13-15; 4:7-16; Mark 4:35:41; 5:25-34; Matthew 4:1-3; 2 Kings 4:1-7.
The Bible provides us with names of those faced with life’s challenges at various times. Jacob was faced with an age-long enmity with Esau his brother. He took the victory by force in prayer, coupled with virtues of humility and restitution to melt Esau down. Joseph fled and loss his coat of many colors in order to keep his holiness when faced with the challenge of an adulterous temptation from Portiphar's wife. Hannah by prayers and supplication got the victory over her adversary to conceive Samuel and wiped away her reproach. By the confession and action of faith, David brought down the challenging Goliath who has held the nation to ransom for 40 days on the battle field. Hezekiah turned his reality of death into joy of prolonged life and good heath when he prayed earnestly.
The three Hebrews children by faith and confidence in God defied the threats of King Nebuchadnezzar and got an astounding deliverance that brought glory to their God in Babylon. Daniel escaped the lions because he believed his God at the hour of a deadly challenge of his faith. Esther and Mordecai became the heroes of the day in Ahasuerus's kingdom by the weapon of fasting and prayers and they "loved not their life unto the death". When the woman with the issue of blood touched Jesus by faith she overcame 12 years of a nauseating challenge. The widow woman of Elisha's day outlived her poverty because she knew how to connect God through the man of God.
All these people and others like them in Bible days contended with their challenges because they connected with the God of power by faith. They remained steadfast as they passed through these challenges which eventually turned to testimonies. You too can today. All you need to overcome life’s challenges is the power of God.
3. CONQUERING BY CONNECTING WITH THE GOD OF POWER.
Psalm 62:11; 2 Corinthians 1:20; Jeremiah 1:19; 2 Corinthians 2:14; Revelations 12:11; Colossians 213-15; Philippians 2:8-11; 2 Corinthians 10:3-5; Ephesians 6:12-18; Luke 10:19; Psalm 27:13-14, 118:5-14.
"And they shall fight against thee but they shall not prevail against thee for I am with thee saith the Lord" (Jeremiah1:19). Certainly, power belongs to God. Jesus declared unto us that all power is given unto him. With the victory of the cross and His resurrection, we can connect with God's power and overcome all life's challenges. Moreover, we have the word of His promises coupled with the assistance of the Holy Ghost.
How can you connect God's power into your present challenges?
1. Acquit yourself and be sure you have right standing with God (Job 22:21-30).
2. Appropriate the promises of God to your situation of challenges whatever they are.
3. Ask in prayers and seek God's face to intervene in your situation. Pray definitely and pray through. (Luke 18:1-7).
4. Apply the finished work of Calvary to your case. Jesus has finished all things on the cross. Satan and his host were defeated at Calvary.
5. Affirm your victory and confess positively like David and you will surely overcome.
6. Act and walk by faith before you see the manifestations
7. Adore and praise The Lord for your victory.
By this, God's power will work in your challenges and turn them around.
Connecting with the God of Power. Christian Living Seminar 5.
QUALIFICATIONS AND RESULT OF CONNECTING WITH THE GOD OF POWER
Job 22:21-30; 1 Samuel 7:3:12; 2 Chronicles 7:14; Matthew 15:21-28.
There is no way any man can live and enjoy all the victories needed in life, including spiritual rest, perfect and good health, breakthroughs, overall success in life and dominion over all the powers of Satan except he has right standing with the God of heaven. There is need to acquit with God before all the good we want in life can become realities in our lives. Man is separated from God by sin, sin therefore becomes a wall of barrier between God as a benefactor and man as a dependent. Satan on the other hand, held man to himself by the chains of sin. By this he has the power to afflict and torment until man is able to break away from him by salvation in Christ. Therefore, to connect with God, to enjoy his power and for all the redemptive benefits in Christ to be at your disposal for defeating and overcoming all life's problems, you must come to terms with God and be in unbroken fellowship with Him.
God is a God of power. His creation, past and present dealings show that God is all powerful. Records abound in scriptures that attest to this; (Matthew 28:18, Psalm 62:11, Mark 2:10-11, John 17:2; Acts 4:33.)
1. THE PERILS OF NOT CONNECTING WITH THE GOD OF POWER.
Numbers 14:40-45; 1 Samuel 4:1-11; Joshua 7:1-5; 2 Kings 1:1-6; Matthew 15:22-26; Acts 19:13-16; Isaiah 1:15; 59:1-2; Psalm 66;18.
The Israelites tried to go into battle after they have transgressed the commandments of The Lord despite Moses warning to them. They met with defeat. Though they brought in the Ark of the Covenant when they fought the Philistines, they were still defeated because they were not in right standing with their God at such a time. Trying to fight life's battles without having reconciled with God and not living right will always result in defeat. The Lord refused to give the children's bread to dogs. How can a person enjoy divine healing and health without being in covenant relationship with the God who said " I am the LORD that healeth thee."? The vagabond Jews who tried to call the name of Jesus on those who had evil spirits got their share of beating from the possessed man. Why all these? Because they were not rightly related with the God of power. What are the perils of not connecting with the God of power?
Defeat in the battles of life, denial of answer to prayers, diseases without cures, demonic attacks with no solutions, darkness in all areas of life without light of directions, debts and poverty, doors of opportunity being closed, distress and discouragement and finally death without remedy.
This is why you must seek to be personally connected with the God of power quickly.
2. PREREQUISITES FOR CONNECTING WITH THE GOD OF POWER.
Job 22:21-30; 1 Samuel 7:3-12; Matthew 15:21-28; Acts 2:38; Genesis 20:7; Deuteronomy 7:2:-5; 24,25; Isaiah 1:16-20; 52:11; John15:3-7.
We are living in a world of standards today. All significant institutions, organizations and professional bodies have required standard for their executive, officers and members. Our universities and other tertiary institutions have standards that those who wish to enter into them must meet. Industries and ministries have specific requirement demanded of those who will serve different capacities. The Banking, building industries, the medical profession and the judiciary and other professionals have high standards of selections, appointment and promotion and they keep to these standards.
In the same vane connecting with the God of power is not done without prerequisites. What are conditions for connecting with God to enjoy His power in our lives?
1. Repentance from all sins and faith in The Lord Jesus Christ for salvation. (Acts: 37-38).
2. Renunciation of all evil practices of the world, occultism and satanic associations
3. Restitution of all past wrongs (Luke 19:8)
4. Righteousness in all areas of living.
5. Right relationship with all men. Reconcile and forgive all people.
6. Reading the word of God and meditation in it and living by it.
6. Remaining in fellowship with God.
7. Ready to obey God (Luke 15:19; Acts 9:6).
8. Rejecting sinful offers and tendencies (Acts 19:18,19) This is the life connected with the God of power and that can seek Him for all needs and help in life's battles.
To such God says '...before they call. I will answer; and while they are yet speaking I will hear." (Isaiah 6;:24).
"He shall call upon me, and I will answer him: I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him, and honour him.
With long life will I satisfy him, and shew him my salvation." (Psalm 91:15,16).
3. THE PROFITS OF CONNECTING WITH THE GOD OF POWER.
Genesis 18:17-19; 39:1-4, 21-23; Joshua 10:12-14; 1 Samuel 18:10-12; Daniel 1:8, 17-21; 6:21-23; Matthew 15:21-28; Luke 10:17-20; 1 Samuel 1:9-18; 7:9-12.
When a believer get connected with the God of power by salvation in Christ and righteous living, the result is marvelous. There is no impossibility in the life of the connected believer. Joseph as a well connected man of God enjoyed God's presence in his life and all he did prospered in his hands. When the woman of Canaan got connected by accepting her condition and humbled herself in repentance, her daughter was healed by The Lord immediately. How wonderful to watch God himself thundering against the Philistines, the enemies of Israel who had earlier defeated them just because now they have repented of their sins and cast away their idols.
What are the wonderful results of meeting the prerequisites and become connected with the God of power?
1. The secrets of God are easily revealed to you like God did to Abraham.
2. Success attends all that you do like Joseph.
3. Supernatural power follows you and manifest in your life easily.
4. Sicknesses and diseases are healed when you pray.
5. Signs and wonders follow your ministrations and prayers.
6. The Spirit of God directs and guides you leading into right decisions (Romans 8:16)
7. Satan's plans, purposes and power is defeated in your life.
8. Solution to all your problems are given from heaven easily to you.
9. Spiritual blessings can easily flow into your life and there will be assurance of heaven.
10. Storms are calmed for you because Jesus is in the boat of your life.
You must therefore pay whatever price is required to get yourself connected and remained connected to the God of power.
