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Home > Spiritual Growth
How To Grow In Grace

The second book of Peter ended with the Apostle firmly admonishing the Church to grow in Grace and in the knowledge of our LORD Jesus Christ.

    2 Peter 3:18 KJV
    But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

    This admonishment didn't just apply to the Early Church alone but also to the end time Church. What does growing in Grace entail and why is it so important in a Christian's life? Let's trust the LORD to reveal to us in this article. Read on!

    Meaning of Growth


    Growth according to Biology, refers to a permanent increase in the size and complexity of a living organism. Biology deals with living things, so does God. As long as a living organism is alive, it is expected to grow. If a living organism is not growing, there is a cause; either it's affected by nutrient deficiency or a disease. But in the presence of all favourable conditions, no living organism is permitted to refuse growing and bearing expected fruits. Same applies to believers.

    Evidence of true Spiritual Growth


    The major evidence of true spiritual growth is productivity (not perfection according to worldly speculations). Maturity in Christ is not perfection. You'll agree with me that we're not yet totally like Christ, and that makes spiritual growth a continuous process.

    Apostle Paul understood this. We could see that at the level he was, he was still hungry for more of the LORD. God is vast and inexhaustible, even mature Christians must continue growing in Grace.

    Every Christian who is consistently growing in Grace is productive in the Kingdom. They have many fruits of the Holy Spirit manifest in their very lives; their gifts continually get fine-tuned to their best on daily basis for the LORD's use.

    Meaning of Grace and Growing in Grace


    Jesus Christ is Grace personified. He is the same person who works in His sons and daughters through the Holy Spirit to transform them into His image. Grace transforms, equips and enables us for service in the Kingdom. To grow in Grace is to grow in Christ. And the end product of spiritual growth is conforming to the very image of Christ.

    2 Corinthians 3:18 KJV
    But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.

    Those who see Grace as a license to sin have gotten it twisted. Let's assume they don't know what Grace is, because true Grace enables us to live above the low life of sin.

    Why We Must Grow In Grace


    God expects everything He made to grow and keep growing until they complete their life span. He expects us to grow spiritually, it is very important to Him!

    1). The Rapture and the Second coming of the LORD hasn't yet taken place, with many reasons behind it. One of them being that the Body of Christ (which is the Church) hasn't yet grown unto maturity in Christ, the Head.

    Ephesians 4:15 KJV
    But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, which is the head, even Christ. 

    The Church is the major factor which is delaying the closure of this present age. She isn't yet ready. Many Christians are still 'playing church' and living a double life. The LORD will return when the Church is ready according to His own specifications. But let's pray He meets us ready.

    2. We must grow so that we don't get cut off from Him: God elevates His Word above His Name and His Word is true. He made it clear to us in John 15 that every branch of Him that refuses to grow and bear fruits risks getting cut off from Him. We don't want that to happen to us.

    John 15:1-2 KJV
    I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. [2] Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.

    A quick reminder for us is what Jesus did to the unproductive fig tree in Matthew 21:19. Let's not think He can't likewise do that to unproductive Christians.

    Matthew 21:19 KJV
    And when he saw a fig tree in the way, he came to it, and found nothing thereon, but leaves only, and said unto it, Let no fruit grow on thee henceforward for ever. And presently the fig tree withered away.

    The evidence of true spiritual growth will always be productivity and fruitfulness. We can't tell God we're growing when we have nothing to show for it.

    3. Growing in Grace brings us to a place of deeper knowledge of God and walk with Him: Knowing God beyond who we think He is should be the desire of every true Christian. Growing in Grace will increase our level of intimacy with Him; it will give us access to the secrets of God and personal knowledge of Him beyond what we've heard and read! That is the same thing Paul desired; and the very same thing Peter told us to seek after:

    Philippians 3:10 KJV
    That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death. 

    2 Peter 3:18 KJV
    But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. To him be glory both now and for ever. Amen.

    4. We must grow in Grace so that we become fully useful to the LORD: The LORD never made us Christians so that we'll remain that way, doing nothing and expecting Him to come take us to Heaven.

    Every genuine Christian has a ministry. There is a general calling on us to make Disciples of all Nations. It is the LORD's desire to see us allow Him work on us and transform us from ordinary believers to Disciples who are able to do same to others.

    Final Words


    Growing in Grace is not an option, it's a command. We have no excuse not to grow and become more productive everyday. The LORD has placed the resources that will enable us do just that within our reach. A good place to start from is to get saved and get the Word of God in us:

    1 Peter 2:2 KJV
    As newborn babes, desire the sincere milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby. 

    The LORD wants to transform us into His own image and better our lives. He wants to use us in jaw-dropping ways, but the ball is in our court. We must intentionally allow Him to work on and grow us so that we will walk in the fullness of all that He has for us.

    How To Grow In Grace


    It's not uncommon for people to dream about houses. Seeing a house in dreams has meanings that are not far from the dreamer's personal life.

      Dreams about houses can be understood and interpreted in various ways based on the structure, state or appearance of the house.

      Christian Dream Meaning Of A House


      A house in dreams represents your life. Recall these words from our LORD Jesus Christ:

      Matthew 12:43-45 KJV
      When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.
      [44] Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.
      [45] Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation.

      To understand the meaning of dreams about houses, one must take into consideration many factors including:

      ⚫Structure of the house
      ⚫Appearance of the house
      ⚫Location of the House
      ⚫Things found within the house
      ⚫Placement of furniture within the house, etc.

      The nature of a house in dreams often represent the current state of a person's life. In most cases, it reflects the person's current spiritual state. House dreams should never be taken lightly.

      Dream Meaning of A New House


      To see a newly completed or almost completed and furnished house (which the dreamer has an inner knowing that it belongs to them) is a good omen. God is doing something new in your life that will bring you great joy and overall promotion in life. You responsibility is to pray, thank Him and affirm it.

      Isaiah 43:19 KJV
      Behold, I will do a new thing; now it shall spring forth; shall ye not know it? I will even make a way in the wilderness, and rivers in the desert.

      Building A House In Dreams


      If you see yourself building a new house in your dream, it is a good omen. It's an indication that you are presently in line with God's will for your life and working towards achieving your goals, bettering your life and future.

      It can also imply that you are building up your spiritual life and relationship with God and you're doing it the right way. Notice the level at which the construction of the building is at (that can have a lot to tell you) and press on!

      After seeing such dreams, it's wise to not stop doing what you're doing that has given you this pass mark. Continue obeying God and working towards actualizing your goals and fulfilling destiny.

      It's only in rare cases that building a house in dreams means that you're actually going to immediately start building one in waking life.

      Cleaning Your House In Dreams


      To see yourself cleaning your house often means that a spiritual cleansing is happening in your life, mostly due to the fact that the person has chosen to let go of certain sins that easily beset them to embrace holiness and purity.

      It is a sign of spiritual purging currently happening in your life. You shouldn't stop doing what you're doing. Don't stop studying God's Word and Praying. This will hasten the cleansing process.

      Ephesians 5:26 KJV
      That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word. 

      Unkept House


      To dream and see that the furniture in certain rooms or a room in your apartment are not in their right places is a very important revelation granted you. It may seem like someone moved them around, turned them over here and there and scattered the whole room. This tells of demonic presence in that apartment. No true Christian should be afraid to command demons to go back to where they were sent and leave their house alone!

      Such dreams may also speak of a possible demonic plan to bring disorder to your life. Come against it in prayer.

      If you've ever dreamt and saw that your house is very dirty and untidy, but in waking life it's very neat, this speaks of spiritual impurity (often due to sin) in one's personal life. To wallow in sin is never the best choice in life. The dreamer has to let go of sinful deeds and behaviours and submit themselves to God for cleansing.

      SEE ALSO: Christian Dream Meaning of Returning Back To Former Residence

      If your apartment needs to be cleaned up in waking life but you're procrastinating doing it, God may as well bring it to your notice through a dream that you need to clean up your apartment! (don't laugh). God hates dirt, a Christian should be clean (both physically and spiritually). Cleanliness is next to godliness.

      House with Doors and Windows open


      To dream and see yourself sleeping in your room but all of a sudden you notice that the doors and windows are open is not something to take lightly!

      This tells that the dreamer has in one way or the other let down their spiritual guard (maybe through sin or lack of prayer) and will be vulnerable to the attacks of the enemy. Such dreams are a warning for one to get back under God's protection as soon as possible, before the enemy strikes!

      Ephesians 6:11 KJV
      Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil.

      House With Leaking Roof


      To see in a dream that the room you're living in leaks while rain falls is an indication of a serious spiritual and physical slackness that needs urgent attention!

      Concerning the person's waking life, he/she may not be working hard enough to make ends meet and may soon be struck by serious financial crises.

      Ecclesiastes 10:18 KJV
      By much slothfulness the building decayeth; and through idleness of the hands the house droppeth through.

      Concerning the person's spiritual life, these kind of dreams tell that one has neglected their spiritual life; they have ceased to do things that will help them grow spiritually and closer to God. They have opted for sin and the ways of the world.

      Such dreams are a wakeup call for one to take responsibility for your physical and spiritual well-being.

      Mud and Thatched House


      In Africa, mud and thatched houses are for the very less-privileged. To see oneself living in a mud and thatched house means poverty and sometimes, a very pathetic spiritual life that urgently and seriously needs to be worked on.

      Conclusion


      This dream interpretation concerning houses is not exhaustive! The Holy Spirit is able to give an inner knowing concerning the meaning of house dreams we have based on their context.

      It's always advisable to always seek Him for interpretation before consulting online Christian dreams dictionaries (as most of them aren't as accurate).

      For every dream about a house one has, which are in connection with some interpretations that are presented above, one should pray accordingly, to either affirm or destroy them.

      Be blessed!

      Feel free to share your dreams and contributions as comments below.

      Copyright © 2019 iBlogGospel | No Article on Christian Dream Meanings from our website should be copied and pasted on any blog/website, printed and sold or reproduced in any form without prior permission of this site Admin. 

      HOUSE Christian Dream Meaning


      Here is a compilation of the Word which the Lord spoke through this vessel in the just concluded November 2018 Conference in Our Telegram Group. I believe you'll be blessed reading.

      TOPIC: THE NIGHT IS FAR SPENT (ROM 13:12) 

      Much has already been said by other ministers pertaining to the theme of the conference. If you followed up carefully, you should already get the message. So I may not say too much but just sum it up.

        Romans 13:11 KJV
        And that, knowing the time, that now it is high time to awake out of sleep: for now is our salvation nearer than when we believed.

        The night is far spent, do not take it lightly, because it's a warning. This conference was made mainly for those who have slacked in their callings and duties as Christians.

        By His Grace, I'll try as much as possible to sound it the way the Lord communicated to me.

        1 Corinthians 9:24-26 KJV
        Know ye not that they which run in a race run all, but one receiveth the prize? So run, that ye may obtain. [25] And every man that striveth for the mastery is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a corruptible crown; but we an incorruptible. [26] I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air. 

        True Christianity is a race. Once we get saved we're automatically enlisted to partake in this race alongside others. Those who brace the tape on the Last Day will make Heaven. Actually, many will make Heaven, but not everyone who makes it will receive rewards.

        Many will fall away; many will be carried away by the cares of this world & won't make it to the finish line, talk less of receiving rewards.

        This message comes as a wakeup call to Believers who for one reason or the other have lost their sharp-cutting edge; have toned down on how they used to preach before; have watered down their messages so as to please men; those Believers who are no longer praying and studying the Word like they used to do.

        Some of us here were once very vibrant, Spirit-filled Believers. We were on fire, burning fiercely for God until a stubborn and persistent sin came and swept us off our feet. Tribulations and  trials came and stole our focus. In this way, many lost it and saw themselves going backwards spiritually instead of forward.

        Some of us here have been Christians for many years but haven't been on fire for God even for once and can not testify on much impact on others. There's this inner knowing that we haven't measured up to the level the Lord wants us to attain spiritually.
        In both cases, both categories of Christians are actually asleep. And the Lord says the night is far spent, it is time to wake up! There's no much time left to continue sleeping.

        Am I speaking to someone here?

        As you're hearing this message right now, may that inner knowing that "there's more to Christianity than this current spiritual state I am" light a fire in your heart; a zeal to swiftly work towards & ascend to the level God wants you to be!

        May that fiery zeal propel you unto fulfilling your divine purpose exactly the way it was written of you!

        Much has also been said about Evangelism. We're all called to the ministry of soul-winning. The Great Commission is a work all true Christians must do. It is a MUST that we Evangelise!

        Jude 1:23 KJV
        And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.

        But how can we help others out of the pit, out of darkness and fire of Hell if we ourselves need urgent help? The Lord wants to begin with pulling us out of the fire of damnation and cleansing us. His hand is out-stretched to help us.

        Titus 2:14 KJV
        Who gave himself for us, that he might redeem us from all iniquity, and purify unto himself a peculiar people, zealous of good works.

        He wants to cleanse and purify us for service; even our garments spotted by the flesh. He wants to do it swiftly & equip us to also pull others out of the fire, because the night is far spent and time is short! The Lord is raising the End Time Army.

        I understand why it is easy for Christians who have had a glimpse of Heaven, the rewards and the glory awaiting us to be so zealous about their divine purpose, callings & ministry. I understand that once you have such revelations it's hard to remain a lukewarm Christian. But we must not wait until we have such experiences before we become serious with Kingdom business.

        For some of us who are not opportuned to have such, you're opportuned to be in this conference!

        You're not permitted to remain the same after this conference!
        Yes, it may not be a physical crown that we will receive from God on the Last Day. It may not be physical mansions like we've been told. Our mortal minds are too limited to grasp the complete essence of what God has in store for those who will finish strong & lead many to Christ.

        1 Corinthians 2:9 KJV
        But as it is written, Eye hath not seen, nor ear heard, neither have entered into the heart of man, the things which God hath prepared for them that love him.

        Daniel 12:3 KJV
        And they that be wise shall shine as the brightness of the firmament; and they that turn many to righteousness as the stars for ever and ever.

        Who are they that are wise? They are those who fear the Lord, depart from evil & live to please Him.

        Psalm 111:10 KJV
        The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: a good understanding have all they that do his commandments : his praise endureth for ever.

        Proverbs 1:7 KJV
        The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge: but fools despise wisdom and instruction.

        Proverbs 9:10 KJV
        The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.

        Proverbs 15:33 KJV
        The fear of the Lord is the instruction of wisdom; and before honour is humility.

        Anyone who lives in rebellion against God is unwise. Anyone who is occupied with doing what they're passionate about, not God sent them on Earth to do is unwise.

        Every Christian has a calling upon their life which is connected to building the Church of Yeshua, Jesus. So say not, "I'm not called". Your Ambition is not your calling. Any Christian who is occupied with chasing after their ambition more than their calling is chasing after vanity, and has their focus misplaced.
        They that are wise are those who have learnt to number their days, knowing they were sent on a mission on Earth that has a time limit for its completion. They are those who understand that they have a lifespan & must use it to accomplish the assignment which the Father committed to their trust.

        Psalm 90:12 KJV
        So teach us to number our days, that we may apply our hearts unto wisdom.

        The parable of the 10 virgins, in which 5 were foolish and for that reason missed the mark is way deeper than we think.

        May we apply our hearts to wisdom; so that after running this race for so many years on Earth we do not miss the mark.

        What would be my gain if I make Heaven but have no reward? It's actually the reward that makes the race worth running! God would not be happy with me if I failed to do the work He sent me to do and as a result, failed to inherit the promises. What a shame that would be?

        I might not be able to grasp the entire essence on how valuable my crown is, but I sure know that if it wasn't priceless the enemy wouldn't be fighting this hard!

        Nothing that is holding you back is worth losing your crown for!

        You have been dwelling in that place of slumber for too long. Your time in there is far spent and it's time to come forth!

        The Lord gives you the strength to permanently overcome that besetting sin!

        He gives you the power to break those shackles holding you back and break forth to become who He destined you to be!

        Tell that Pharaoh, "I am quitting Egypt and shall never return!"

        No, the enemy can not hold back and sift me like wheat!

        I am a soldier in the End Time Army and must do the will of the One who enlisted me!

        No tribulation nor trial shall prevent me from doing what God wants me to do!

        The mountains barricading me from my destiny are removed by the Power of God Almighty!

        Spiritual growth shall no longer be a struggle in Jesus Name!

        Why Are You Not Doing Evangelism? 


        The way we constantly talk about our own inabilities and inadequacies is an insult to God.

        1 Corinthians 15:10 KJV
        But by the grace of God I am what I am: and his grace which was bestowed upon me was not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.

        God never said that we will do it by our own strength. It is Him who works through us to will and to do for His own pleasure.

        It is actually for the sake of our weaknesses that His Power will rest upon us to enable us effectively carryout and bring the assignment to completion!

        2 Corinthians 12:9 KJV
        And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.

        Therefore rejoice that you have flaws because the Grace of God will be there to complete you and help you complete the assignment. At the end of the day, all glory will return to Him, not to our abilities.

        Some of us may neither be well-educated nor eloquent speakers. Moses wasn't an eloquent speaker, Peter wasn't educated; but if we look closely, we could see how mightily God used them. God never calls the qualified but qualifies the called and uses them beyond human expectation. We can rest on this truth.

        Major Tools For Evangelism


        1. The Word of Power

        Peter clearly was an illiterate, but he had what many teachers of the Law didn't have; he had the Word of Power.

        Acts 2:37-38 KJV
        Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? [38] Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost.

        Peter had that Hebrews 4:12 kind of Word that could pierce through hearts and drive many to their knees in repentance. It wasn't his eloquence and literacy that did that, but his relationship with the Lord.

        Acts 4:13 KJV
        Now when they saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marvelled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus.

        The message of the Cross is the Word of Power, and our quality relationship with the Lord activates that power. What we need is the Word of God coming forth with Power! Not grammar or eloquence!

        The impact of our ministry can only flow out of the nature of the relationship we Jesus!

        2). Signs and Wonders

        The sinners of today are very stubborn and rebellious. As a matter of fact, they're tired of seeing people go about preaching and conduct crusades but at the end of the day, nothing truly happens. They know what to always expect, so they increasing turn deaf ears to our message because in most cases, those messages neither carry the power of God nor signs and wonders confirming them.

        Mark 16:20 KJV
        And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen.

        Acts 5:12 KJV
        And by the hands of the apostles were many signs and wonders wrought among the people; (and they were all with one accord in Solomon's porch.

        Signs and wonders affirm to unbelievers that we're truly sent by a living God and He is truly with us. When these are present, it will be difficult for our message to be rejected.

        The same Holy Spirit which came upon the Apostles and wrought mighty signs and wonders through them, is the same who is in us today. We must pray for and long to see God confirm the Word that comes forth from our mouth with signs and wonders.

        3). Boldness

        We need true boldness that only comes from being filled with the Holy Spirit, to go forth and deliver the Word even in places people deem dangerous!

        If Jehovah's Witnesses cult are bold enough to go about disseminating error, then we can do better.

        It's enough said, Saints. We must rise from slumber, get back to God and get serious with Him more than we had ever been, so that He'll work on us and send us forth to save the lost. That is the assignment that is upon the Church in the Now.

        The harvest is indeed great but the labourers are few, simply because most of the labourers that were sent to the field (Earth) for the harvest fell in deep sleep instead!

        The night is far spent. We must wake up now, because the coming of the Lord is nigh! He is coming with His reward and shall give everyone according to their works!

        2 Timothy 2:21 KJV
        If a man therefore purge himself from these, he shall be a vessel unto honour, sanctified, and meet for the master's use, and prepared unto every good work.

        May we be found worthy of His honour on that day, in Jesus Mighty Name, Amen!

        How To Start Evangelism in 2019


        Kingdom Greetings, Brethren. I am excited for another privilege the LORD has given me to share the Word with you. Thank you so much for being a committed reader of this blog. God bless you!
          Let's go straight to the business of the day!

          1 Peter 1:7 KJV
          That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ:

          Trials of Faith is what every genuine Christian must experience. It's part and parcel of our walk with the LORD. If we're not tested and proven, we won't grow and more will not be entrusted to us. Under this topic we'll treat Trials of Faith separately as Tests of Faith and Tribulations. Don't forget to revisit for Part Two.

          Test of Faith


          One of the tests every true child of God must go through is the test of faith. But one may ask, "Why do the LORD have to test my faith?" The reason goes way beyond determining its quality, suitability and performance. We have a good Father. We must know that whatever He allows us go through, He does so out of His good will. He desires to bring our faith to its very best because it is a necessity!

          Right after we get saved, we can not say that we always have much faith. For me it was a struggle. Even though we assume we have faith, situations will come to prove us wrong.

          Why God Tests our Faith


          In God's sight, our faith often requires urgent upgrade after our salvation. Mine as at then would not be able to move a grain of sand off the Earth, talk less of moving a mountain. I needed an urgent upgrade!

          We can recall that the LORD said that we only need to have faith that is as small as a mustard seed and we will be able to command mountains to move. But let's not get too excited yet, because the average Christian's faith isn't even close to that amount.

          The LORD always rebuked His Disciples for having little faith, which tells us that their faith wasn't up to the size of a mustard seed. The 70 Disciples had once gone out and returned with a beautiful report; that even demons were subject to them in His Name. That required very tiny amount of faith. Another fellow they could not recognize was also casting out devils using the name of Jesus, whom they wanted to resist but got rebuked by Jesus.

          In another instance, a lunatic with a stronger demon was brought to the Disciples and they couldn't cast out the devil. When the report came to the LORD, His response was that their faith was insufficient... and yes, He mentioned a mustard seed. That's reaffirms that the mustard seed size of faith is only small in God's sight.

          Matthew 17:14-20 KJV
          And when they were come to the multitude, there came to him a certain man, kneeling down to him, and saying, [15] Lord, have mercy on my son: for he is lunatick, and sore vexed: for ofttimes he falleth into the fire, and oft into the water. [16] And I brought him to thy disciples, and they could not cure him. [17] Then Jesus answered and said, O faithless and perverse generation, how long shall I be with you? how long shall I suffer you? bring him hither to me. [18] And Jesus rebuked the devil; and he departed out of him: and the child was cured from that very hour. [19] Then came the disciples to Jesus apart, and said, Why could not we cast him out? [20] And Jesus said unto them, Because of your unbelief: for verily I say unto you, If ye have faith as a grain of mustard seed, ye shall say unto this mountain, Remove hence to yonder place; and it shall remove; and nothing shall be impossible unto you.

          Little faith in God's eyes isn't as little as we think. The little faith we know can not make the impossible possible, therefore we need great faith!

          Our faith must get tested, and whether we pass the test or not, when it's tested, it will get strengthened and increased. I'm reminded of Abraham; how the LORD asked him to sacrifice his only son, Isaac. It's great news that he passed the test. And his faith never remained at the same level after that encounter with the LORD.

          The test of our faith is geared towards dismantling every bit of confidence we have in ourselves or our abilities.

          Proverbs 3:5 KJV
          Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.

          Let's assume that the disciples already gained so much self-confidence after their initial evangelism because demons were subject to them in His Name. With that same self-confidence they approached the lunatic hoping to see the same result, but the reverse was the case.

          Maybe some of us have grown spiritually, have witnessed mighty miracles and have gained self-confidence without our knowledge. The LORD will put us through tests that will dismantle our self-confidence, even in the amount of faith we presently have. We're only required to have faith in the LORD, not confidence in the amount of faith we have to make things happen. Our sufficiency is in Him alone, not in our abilities!

          For some who are fearful, the LORD is good at putting them in the mist of what they fear so that their faith will get activated, put to use and increased. Fear and Doubt are two sides of the same coin. The test of our faith is also geared towards getting rid of both.

          The disciples being in the boat at night and seeing Jesus walk on water were already filled with fear thinking He was a ghost. Peter's fear, coupled with doubt pushed him to prove if that was truly Jesus. The LORD on the other hand seized the opportunity to test and increase his faith.

          Matthew 14:26-31 KJV
          And when the disciples saw him walking on the sea, they were troubled, saying, It is a spirit; and they cried out for fear. [27] But straightway Jesus spake unto them, saying, Be of good cheer; it is I; be not afraid. [28] And Peter answered him and said, Lord, if it be thou, bid me come unto thee on the water. [29] And he said, Come. And when Peter was come down out of the ship, he walked on the water, to go to Jesus. [30] But when he saw the wind boisterous, he was afraid; and beginning to sink, he cried, saying, Lord, save me. [31] And immediately Jesus stretched forth his hand, and caught him, and said unto him, O thou of little faith, wherefore didst thou doubt?

          The LORD will sometimes let us go through storms, fearful storms. It's all meant to build our faith. It's better if we can see and keep our focus on Him in the midst of those storms because He is always there watching our reaction and will always come to our rescue.

          I was once as fearful as Peter. I think the LORD had to get rid of that fear in me in a strange way and taught me to put faith to use. That was through this particular dream that repeated itself three times on three different nights:
          In each of the dreams I saw myself trying to pass through this dark long corridor which was filled with demonic presence and strange voices. The demons were stretching out their hands from every place on the wall towards me, trying to get hold of me. The only thing that scared them away a bit while I walked through was the torchlight I held. On almost getting to the middle of the corridor they would make the torchlight go off, I don't know how. Efforts to put the torch back On proved abortive. The switch would stopped working. That's when I came face to face with fear... haha! Then a voice would tell me, "Use Faith". I'd have to summon the courage right there to put fear aside, then command the torchlight to be put On in the Name of Jesus and it always happened instantly!

          This dream came thrice. At the end of the day, fear was nowhere to be found in me anymore and my faith was increased.

          There are many other things the LORD has put me through to increase my faith.

          Even after we think we've had much faith, the LORD will keep putting us through more tests to increase of faith. He will let us go through situations that are difficult to believe He'll intervene only for Him to intervene when all hope is almost lost. Remember the Disciples in the mist of the storm with the LORD sleeping in the lower chamber of the ship. He is always there, we must not fear but call on Him with faith and He'll answer.

          Final Words


          From my little experiences with the LORD, what I see is that the major goal of the test of our faith is to enable us grow to be more dependent and confident on God Almighty alone, not on man or our abilities!

          It is faith that makes us overcomers!

          1 John 5:4-5 KJV
          For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. [5] Who is he that overcometh the world, but he that believeth that Jesus is the Son of God?

          We need faith to trample on the works of darkness. We need it to be effective in our ministry. We need faith to receive answers to our prayers(Matthew 21:22). We need faith to scale through the daily challenges of life. We need faith to please God, because without faith it is impossible to please Him! (Hebrews 11:6).

          God is Spirit, being a Christian is spiritual. Every ministry service, be it prayer, worship, preaching etc that does not proceed out of faith is sin! (Romans 14:23).

          Ever since I realised the importance of having great faith, like the Apostles, one of my daily prayer points has been that the LORD increases my faith. That should also become one of your prayer points. Amen!

          Now your turn:

          If you were blessed reading this piece, kindly use the share buttons to share with as many friends as possible. Don't forget to leave me a comment below. Thanks, remain blessed.

          Trials Of Faith


          Do you some times feel like you're stuck in a particular level of spiritual growth? Ever felt like whenever you're doing your best to grow spiritually you see yourself going three steps backwards instead? What about constantly struggling with a particular sin you had vowed to let go of so many times but to no avail? That is the spirit of rising and falling at work!

          I believe one of the desires of every genuinely saved person on this planet is to grow without any barrier on their path of spiritual growth. But that isn't always the case.

          The imperfection and weakness of the flesh itself is a barrier. The enemy of our souls also doesn't want us to grow unto maturity in Christ. Every mature Christian is a serious threat to him and his kingdom, so he fights relentlessly to prevent a believer from getting to such level.

          At times it gets to a point some believers would conclude that they can never grow past the level they are and can never stop doing things that displease God. That is the voice of the enemy and it isn't true. Satan is always a liar... he'll tell you, "you can't do it. You're so sinful, do you think you can just wake up one day to stop living in this sin?"

          You may had disappointed the LORD so many times, but that doesn't mean you can not start making Him proud of you. It may be true that your spiritual life has really suffered many blows both from you and the enemy to the extent you've concluded you'll never do right. Just don't give up!

          One of the desires of the LORD is to see us move past every string and shackle drawing us backwards whenever we desire to go forward. We can not do it by our own strength. If we could help ourselves there would had been no need for our LORD Jesus Christ to come and die for us.

          We need Him to be righteous. We need Him to enable us live right, and we need Him to help us get past every hindrance to our spiritual growth. It is very hard when we try to do it on our own, but with Him it is easy. Never forget that with God all things are possible!

          Matthew 11:28-30 KJV
          Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. [29] Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. [30] For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.

          RISING AND FALLING: WHY A BELIEVER MUST OVERCOME IT


          ● To Make Heaven: The first thing the spirit of rising and falling strives to achieve is to prevent a Believer from making Heaven at last. Rising and falling produces lukewarm Christians and the LORD said in the book of Revelation 3:16 that He will spew such out of His mouth!

          But so long one is alive, there is hope! Every new day is another chance to get it right. Don't joke with it because tomorrow is not guaranteed and there is no repentance in the grave.

          The enemy wants no Christian to make Heaven; not even one! We must constantly resist him and hold fast our ticket to Heaven till the day we breathe our last!

          1 Peter 5:8-9 KJV
          Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: [9] Whom resist stedfast in the faith, knowing that the same afflictions are accomplished in your brethren that are in the world.

          ● To Walk In The Fullness of God's Blessings For Us: The fullness of God's Blessings are for the obedient and totally consecrated believers. Overcoming a rising and falling Christian life is a great step towards walking in the fullness of all that the LORD has in store for us.

          ● To Be Used Of The LORD To The Fullest: It is the will of the LORD that we rise by the power of the Holy Spirit to become who He destined us to be.

          No Christian is ready to be fully used of the LORD while their relationship with Him is still suffering and pathetic. How can we be used to deliver others from what we've not been delivered from?

          When we're delivered from everything that is holding us back, we'll be ready to be used of the LORD to the fullest. That is what we should desire, we shouldn't settle for the less.

          WHAT WE MUST DO


          1. Stay Filled With The Holy Spirit: The need for every Believer to stay filled with the Holy Spirit can not be overemphasized. God's Grace is carried by the Holy Spirit who lives in us. More Infilling of the Holy Spirit equals to more Grace to stand, live right and walk in the supernatural!

          Guard the Anointing upon your life. The devil can not attack that directly but he sets the traps that will make believers run low on infilling of the Spirit so that he can easily crash them!

          2. Stay In The Word: The transforming power of the Word will keep us from falling if we study, meditate on and apply it to our lives on daily basis.

          We can't neglect the Word and expect to stand!

          3. Focus: Whatever strives to steal our focus from the LORD and from our spiritual life is fighting to fall us. Distractions of all sorts, including attacks from the enemy are not worth our attention! Keep your gaze on God!

          4. Jealously Guard Your Prayer Life: Whatever attacks our prayer life wants to fall us. A prayerless Christian is truly a powerless Christian! They can't resist even the least temptation. The enemy attacks a Believer's prayer life because he knows it's easy to fall them when they don't pray!

          5. Hate And Resist That Besetting Sin: Every genuine Christian is constantly tempted to sin. It doesn't just happen to one Christian. And there is no difference between us and other genuine Christians. The same Holy Spirit dwells and works in us all to keep us out of sin.

          But we determine whether we want to be kept out of it or not. No Christian can overcome a particular sin he or she loves. The first step to overcoming that sin it to hate it and fix the mind on the things of the spirit. Never give sin a second thought. Let the Holy Spirit determine the flow of your thoughts!

          Galatians 5:16 KJV
          This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh.

          We can not say that we have done our very best to resist the sin that persistently sweeps us off our feet. We have been enabled to resist more and keep resisting by the power of the Holy Spirit until it can no longer control us!

          Hebrews 12:4 KJV
          Ye have not yet resisted unto blood, striving against sin.

          FINAL WORDS


          The devil will always speak discouragement and failure but I assure that if you refuse to listen to his voice, you can rise and make a tripple-power impact that will shake the foundations of Hell!

          It is easy to overcome rising and falling as a Christian. The main thing is to end our striving to live right by our own strength and let God take control and be the platform that sustains and empowers our spiritual life. Staying prayed up and filled with the Holy Spirit is a must, because it is the Holy Spirit that enables us to live holy and do things that please the LORD. Just let go and let God, and rising and falling will become a walk-over!

          Jude 1:24-25 KJV
          Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, [25] To the only wise God our Saviour, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen.

          ___________

          Now your turn:

          If you were blessed reading this article, kindly use the share buttons to share with as many people as possible.

          Stay Pure, by His Grace. Remain Blessed.

          How To Overcome A Rising And Falling Christian Life


          Grace and Peace to you. In this article we're going to discuss about late-night prayers and why it's so important for every genuine Christian living in these Last Days! I know most of you reading this are firebrand prayer warriors and this doesn't sound new to you at all. Feel free to chip in your personal knowledge and experience pertaining to the topic as comments at the end of the article. With that being said, we can now go straight to the business of the day...
          TEXT:
          Matthew 26:40-41 KJV
          And he cometh unto the disciples, and findeth them asleep, and saith unto Peter, What, could ye not watch with me one hour? [41] Watch and pray, that ye enter not into temptation: the spirit indeed is willing, but the flesh is weak.

          Prayer from a Christian's point of view is a means through which we talk to God our Father through His Son, Jesus Christ our LORD. It is also a mighty weapon which the LORD has given us to enable us get rid of unpleasant situations (which are not of Him) and squash the works of darkness!

          Prayer is powerful! Every Christian who is still standing stands by Grace and by prayer! It's totally indispensable to the growth, breakthrough, success and progress of every true believer and ministry.

          Any genuine believer who goes a day without prayer knows how spiritually unpleasant it feels. Prayer should be treated like our daily bread. It should form part and parcel of us. We should be happy to pray because that's one of the reasons why we are Christians. Christians are wired for prayer!

          While a good number of believers are used to praying during the day, only a little percentage do consistently wake up to pray at night. But what could be the possible cause? Let's assume it's possibly many reasons and excuses!

          I know that some of us have genuine reasons why we don't do the late-night prayer thing. And such reasons include not living in a personal apartment, sharing the same apartment with people who don't want to be disturbed while they're sleeping, staying in an uncomfortable apartment, etc. To an extent, it's understandable. But it's to our best interest if we make adjustments as much as possible to accommodate a midnight prayer life.

          As for the other group of believers, they just have many flimsy excuses. The fact is that excuses won't help us when problems and spiritual attacks arise due to inadequate prayer!

          It's funny and at the same time saddening when a Christian would wake up out of a bad dream at night only to pick their phone and call their Pastors and Prophets to pray for them. They don't have excuses concerning that but they have excuses not to use that time in prayer. I can conclude that God looks down from Heaven at them with disappointment on His face.

          I am one of those who ask for prayers from other Christians, but I can't depend on their prayers because I know that "the best person to pray for you is you." Prayers from other brethren are only supportive prayers. So, pray your way through the huddles of this Christian journey into your destiny!

          Why You Should Do Late Night Prayer


          The reasons why Christians must cultivate the habit of waking up late at night to pray are innumerable. I'll list as many as the Holy Spirit enables me to. They are as follows:

          ● The LORD Always Did: Since we are the followers of Christ we must emulate Him. Those who use the Old Testament phrase "God gives His beloveds sleep at night" as a reason to discourage midnight prayers have to ask the same God whether praying at night is a sin or it's against His Word. I don't get why some choose to twist Scriptures to suit a point of view that doesn't help Christians become who the LORD wants them to be.

          It's to our best interest if we don't listen to such people because they won't be the solution to problems that may arise when we don't pray.

          The Bible shows us clearly that while the LORD walked the Earth, He had an uncommon schedule: He went about ministering throughout the day, then at night He prayed and was refreshed and empowered for the next day's ministry.

          Luke 21:37 KJV
          And in the day time he was teaching in the temple; and at night he went out, and abode in the mount that is called the mount of Olives.

          Looking at the above Scripture, it's clear that Jesus did not go out at night to abode at mount Olives for nothing. Why would He choose to leave a shelter to spend the night at the mountain just for nothing? He was actually going there to pray!

          Mark 1:35 KJV
          And in the morning, rising up a great while before day, he went out, and departed into a solitary place, and there prayed.

          Jesus Christ is our best role model, we must emulate Him. I love the schedule He had and that's also my schedule. God never said we shouldn't sleep at night but it's spiritually unhealthy to sleep all through the night as a Christian. No serious Christian does that!

          ● It Builds You Up Spiritually: Having a midnight prayer life is one of the secrets to having power with God. There's always intense battle that occurs between light and darkness during the night. That is why there is a huge difference between praying during the day and praying at night!

          Those who are used to praying late at night understand what am talking about. Since Christians are part of God's end time army, He won't hesitate to empower us more for this battle, if we're willing to pray at night!

          There is also a huge difference between a Christian who prays only during the day and those who do both during the day and late at night. They can never operate at the same level! There's more to the reason why the LORD reproved the disciples in Matthew 26:40 for sleeping all through the night instead of keeping watch with Him and praying.

          ● The Late-Night Hour Is The Right Time Frame To Destroy The Works Of Darkness: Because their works are evil, they do it less during the day and reserve the greater part of it for the night.

          Micah 2:1 KJV
          Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon their beds! when the morning is light, they practise it, because it is in the power of their hand.

          The night is a period of intense spiritual activity. It's the time frame within which the enemy and his cohorts go about sowing tares and executing their evil agenda. As the children of light we should be wiser and rise up to take the kingdom of darkness by surprise while they're in the process of working out their evil. Of a truth, the enemy hates Christians who pray late at night! The LORD will always enable us to destroy their works if we rise up to pray!

          I noticed that whenever I wake up to war against the works of darkness at night, there is always an extraordinary Anointing that comes on me and the Holy Spirit always gives every word I utter. The result is that when am done the kingdom of darkness always regrets it!

          ● From My Experience, It's The Best Time To Pray: Answers to prayers that are offered late at night come swiftly. I've personally prayed at night and received answers first thing during the day. You can't stay up to pray while others are sleeping and go unrewarded. God is extra-serious with Christians who are serious with Him. He'll sure reward your effort.

          The night is also the right time God will give the works of darkness into your hands for easy destruction! When the Medianites and Amalekites rose against Israel, God gave them into the hands of Gideon and his army of few men for destruction with ease. That happened at night.

          Judges 7:9 KJV
          And it came to pass the same night, that the Lord said unto him, Arise, get thee down unto the host; for I have delivered it into thine hand.

          They didn't do much more for the army of the Medianites and Amalekites to turn against each other and destroy themselves. It's unwise to take late-night prayers for granted!

          ● The LORD Will Open Your Spiritual Eyes: Since late-night prayers is no joke, the LORD knows that we'll need spiritual sight to see what the enemy is doing so as to pray effectively to destroy them. He'll open your spiritual eyes.

          Look at what the LORD showed Ezekiel concerning what people do inside God's house at night:

          Ezekiel 11:1-13 KJV
          Moreover the spirit lifted me up, and brought me unto the east gate of the Lord's house, which looketh eastward: and behold at the door of the gate five and twenty men; among whom I saw Jaazaniah the son of Azur, and Pelatiah the son of Benaiah, princes of the people. [2] Then said he unto me, Son of man, these are the men that devise mischief, and give wicked counsel in this city: [3] Which say, It is not near; let us build houses: this city is the caldron, and we be the flesh. [4] Therefore prophesy against them, prophesy, O son of man. [5] And the Spirit of the Lord fell upon me, and said unto me, Speak; Thus saith the Lord; Thus have ye said, O house of Israel: for I know the things that come into your mind, every one of them. [6] Ye have multiplied your slain in this city, and ye have filled the streets thereof with the slain. [7] Therefore thus saith the Lord God ; Your slain whom ye have laid in the midst of it, they are the flesh, and this city is the caldron: but I will bring you forth out of the midst of it. [8] Ye have feared the sword; and I will bring a sword upon you, saith the Lord God . [9] And I will bring you out of the midst thereof, and deliver you into the hands of strangers, and will execute judgments among you. [10] Ye shall fall by the sword; I will judge you in the border of Israel; and ye shall know that I am the Lord . [11] This city shall not be your caldron, neither shall ye be the flesh in the midst thereof; but I will judge you in the border of Israel: [12] And ye shall know that I am the Lord : for ye have not walked in my statutes, neither executed my judgments, but have done after the manners of the heathen that are round about you. [13] And it came to pass, when I prophesied, that Pelatiah the son of Benaiah died...
          A lot is happening in secret. If you cultivate the habit of praying late at night, God will open your eyes to see things that will leave you in awe!

          If Christians learn to pray at night, they won't be clueless concerning what the enemy and wicked people are planning to do. It'll at the same time help them know where to target their prayers and get swift results!

          WRAPPING IT UP

          Just as the LORD said, the Spirit is willing but the flesh is weak. We must allow the Spirit to subdue the flesh so that we do what we're expected to do unhindered.

          If you haven't been doing late-night prayers, I'll advise you to start right away. For the first week it may seem a bit difficult since the flesh has been conditioned to sleep throughout the night. So the best thing is to set an alarm. It will also help when you go to bed tired.

          My alarm clock is set to 2am so if am tired when going to bed, by 2am the body would had rested for some time and I'll have the energy to rise up and pray. I'm also fond of asking the Holy Spirit to wake me up in case I don't hear when the alarm rings and He always does, at times before 2am!

          You don't have to pray all through the night. An hour or two is enough then you can go back to bed and enjoy your sound sleep, expecting your breakthrough and victory!

          Most of the breakthroughs that I've had are as a result of praying at night. Start today and you'll sure reap the benefits. Don't forget to thank God later.

          My Prayer is that the LORD empowers someone reading this for late-night prayers from now henceforth in Jesus Name, Amen!

          If you were blessed reading this piece, don't forget to share with as many people as you can. Also leave me a comment in the comment section. Tell more people about this blog. Your word of mouth is valuable.

          Stay spotless, by His Grace. Remain Blessed!

          Why You Must Build A Late Night Prayer Life


          Kingdom Greetings. The LORD laid in my heart to expand on one of the spiritual warfare topics I treated in a short YouTube video earlier this year. 

          The manner of spiritual attacks Christians are currently experiencing are out of this world! We are living in the Last Days and the enemy knows this quite well; he knows that his time his short. That is why he is presently making use of every weapon he could possibly lay hands on against Christians. 

          No genuine Christian would say that they've never come under spiritual attacks. None of us have outgrown spiritual attacks. Any believer who says they don't experience attacks from the kingdom of darkness is either trying to look super-spiritual or it's likely they're living in sin (the enemy doesn't need to attack those who are already in his loop). 

          I can write a big book on the kind of spiritual attacks I have personally experienced since I became a Christian. Everyone who is born of God and making substantial impact in the Kingdom of God is kept under the radar by the kingdom of darkness and attacked like there's no tomorrow! 

          Spiritual attacks come in diverse forms but I see no reason going into detail on that. There's no need giving credits to what the enemy does. What actually matters is that our LORD Jesus Christ longs to see us to live victoriously above every strategy, trick and device of darkness. The battle is His; He has already won it and has the victory in His hands. We only need to key into that victory then the enemy, his cohorts and attacks will become a walk-over! 


          In Hosea 4:6 that LORD said, "my people perish for lack of knowledge". One thing the enemy doesn't want the people of God to lay hands on is the right spiritual and scriptural knowledge, since it lays him and his strategies bare before us and shows us how to put him right back to where he belongs (under our feet)! 

          Proverbs 23:23 KJV
          Buy the truth, and sell it not; also wisdom, and instruction, and understanding.

          As I earlier said, I have experienced various styles and categories of attacks from the kingdom of darkness. One thing I've noticed is that when they're attacking they are very serious about it. They're not joking because their assignment is always to crash and push a Christian out of their way. So they also need to be handled likewise! 

          Ephesians 2:5-6 KJV
          Even when we were dead in sins, hath quickened us together with Christ, (by grace ye are saved;) [6] And hath raised us up together, and made us sit together in heavenly places in Christ Jesus:

          This place where we are seated with Christ is powerful. No agent of darkness has reached up to that level. The LORD has enabled us for victory, if we follow basic biblical principles we'll always have the enemy under our feet! 

          Luke 10:19 KJV
          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.

           10 Things You Must Do To Keep The Enemy Under Your Feet


          1). Have A Right Standing With God: Righteousness means having a right standing with God. And that comes through salvation (Ephesians 2:8-9). It's not self-righteousness which is as a filthy rag before God (Isaiah 64:6). Be sure you're genuinely saved. A right standing with God is the permit we need in order to successfully confront and subdue the kingdom of darkness using God's delegated authority! 

          The seven sons of Sceva lacked a right standing with God. That is why when they attempted driving out demons, the demons were like, "who are these ones? on whose authority are you trying to do that? Jesus I know, Paul I know but who are you?" (Acts 19:14-17). What happened to them later was recorded for us to learn from. 

          You'll notice that Elijah always used the phrase, "before God whom I stand" (1 Kings 17:1, 1 Kings 18:15, 2 Kings 3:14, 2 Kings 5:16) and whatever he said next always happened because he knew without a shadow of doubt that he has a right standing with God and for that reason the kingdom of darkness will always bow! 

          So first of all, get right with God and have His backing. When the enemy comes against you, he'll see God (not you) and God will be the one fighting for and through you. 

          2). Avoid Being A Fair-Weather Christian: Fair-weather Christianity doesn't help when it comes to confronting the kingdom of darkness and bringing them under subjection. Fair-weather Christians think they shouldn't experience attacks because they are Christians. They are happy when things go smooth but get grumpy and lose their zeal and when challenges arise. They lose motivation to pray when the battle is fierce. 

          The best thing is to always expect attacks and live ready for it. 

          3). Get A Good Dose of the Word: The Word of God is your sword in the spirit realm; the most dangerous weapon within the whole armour of God that every Christian must put on (Ephesians 6:11). We need it to strike deep in prayer. Spiritual warfare doesn't require shallow prayers. Prayers that do not miss target are those that carry God's Word within them! 

          Jeremiah 23:29 KJV
          Is not my word like as a fire? saith the Lord ; and like a hammer that breaketh the rock in pieces?

          The Word of God is God Himself. The enemy is afraid of the amount of God's Word you carry in you. 

          4). Be A Prayer Warrior: The life of every productive and victorious end time Christian is that of effectual, fervent and consistent prayer. The enemy preys on those who don't pray.


          Luke 18:1 KJV
          And he spake a parable unto them to this end, that men ought always to pray, and not to faint;

          Don't depend on the prayer of other Christians, they're only supportive prayers. The will of God is that every end time Christian becomes a prayer warrior! 

          5). Get Great Faith & Get Rid of Fear: For a Christian to confront the enemy and his cohorts and bring them under his or her feet, great faith in God is needed. We must know without a shadow of doubt the authority we have in Christ and that it works whenever we put it to use, even in prayer. And that's always the case, it always works! 

          Fear cripples. Live and move fearlessly. Greater is He that is in you. No matter what the enemy brings against you, you'll always overcome and send him back to where he belongs so long you choose to focus on God's ability and fear no evil! 

          Isaiah 8:12-13 KJV
          Say ye not, A confederacy, to all them to whom this people shall say, A confederacy; neither fear ye their fear, nor be afraid. [13] Sanctify the Lord of hosts himself; and let him be your fear, and let him be your dread.

          6). Keep Off From Sin: Sin is meal for the Kingdom of darkness. We can't eat from the devil's table and expect to overcome and keep him under our feet. When the enemy can't easily get us, he resorts to tempting us with sin. That's an invitation to dine with him so that he can get us with ease. We must know this truth and keep off from sin at all cost if we truly want to keep the enemy under our feet. Don't give the devil a foothold and don't give him a reason to bring a charge against you before God! 

          1 Corinthians 10:21 KJV
          Ye cannot drink the cup of the Lord, and the cup of devils: ye cannot be partakers of the Lord's table, and of the table of devils.

          7). Be Totally Submitted to God: The enemy dreads people who are totally submitted to God because he can't easily stretch forth his hands and catch them. Victory over the kingdom of darkness comes by being fully submitted to God. The enemy will always flee from the presence of those who are totally submitted to God, not those who are rebellious against Him! 

          James 4:7 KJV
          Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

          8). Stay Constantly Filled With The Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is a must have for every true believer. We're incomplete without Him. He's the power of God; the power working in us and the power with which we can cripple the enemy! 

          Isaiah 59:19 KJV
          So shall they fear the name of the Lord from the west, and his glory from the rising of the sun. When the enemy shall come in like a flood, the Spirit of the Lord shall lift up a standard against him.

          Spirit-filled Christians are a serious threat to the kingdom of darkness. That is why one of the tactics of the enemy is to bring sin and other things that will drain us of the Anointing of the Holy Spirit. 

          9). Depend On God: Satan is God's creation. He alone knows the right way to handle him. Victorious Christians are those who know how to depend on God for victory. David was one of such people and he never lost a battle! 

          1 Samuel 17:47 KJV
          And all this assembly shall know that the Lord saveth not with sword and spear: for the battle is the Lord's , and he will give you into our hands.

          10). Learn To Give God His Glory: Never assume it's because you're so anointed and powerful that is why you're always victorious. Learn to give God the glory. With that being done, victory can't be denied you. 

          THE BOTTOM LINE

          The list is not exhaustive. We can go on and on concerning what we must do to keep the enemy under our feet, but I was led to write us just these ten. Feel free to add more as comments. 

          It is the will of the LORD that we keep the enemy under our feet and keep him permanently in that place. If we allow attacks from the enemy to continue without equal opposition rising from our side against them, it can delay destiny, make us go through unnecessary huddles in life and at the same time limit the impact of the entire Church. 

          The enemy came to steal, to kill, to destroy (John 10:10). I believe someone will agree with me that every good thing that happens to a genuine Christian in this generation is birthed by serious prayer and spiritual warfare! The kingdom of God suffers violence. Only the violent takes what rightfully belongs to them by force! 

          We are not the victims. We're victorious and will always be through Christ. Be that spiritually violent Christian who sends shockwaves down the veins of agents of darkness! And let them be the ones who flee from your presence! 

          Ephesians 6:10-18 KJV
          Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might. [11] Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. [12] For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places . [13] Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand. [14] Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness; [15] And your feet shod with the preparation of the gospel of peace; [16] Above all, taking the shield of faith, wherewith ye shall be able to quench all the fiery darts of the wicked. [17] And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: [18] Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints. 

          Amen. 

          If you’re blessed, simply share with as many as you can. Help us recommend this blog to other Christians, we appreciate your word of mouth. Thank you! 

          Stay spotless by His Grace. Remain Blessed!

          10 Things You Must Do To Keep The Enemy Under Your Feet

          How To Break Free From Pornography


          Psalm 119:37 KJV
          Turn away mine eyes from beholding vanity; and quicken thou me in thy way.
          Amen. 
          How To Break Addiction To Pornography: By estimation, nine out of every ten persons (both male and female) will admit to have once heard about the word "pornography" or viewed a graphic image or video (whether intentionally or unintentionally).

            We grow up in a society filled with moral decadence; a place where we're bombarded which sinful sights on daily basis. The rate at which pornography is being circulated and consumed by the world today is quite alarming. It has turned the porn industry into a lucrative business venture with uninterrupted cash-flow.

            When I tried checking on my blog's ranking this morning at SEMrush, I was surprised to see that up to 3 porn sites were listed among the first 15 websites with the highest traffic, alongside Google and Facebook.

            Viewers and customers of porn are not only limited to the heathen. Christians are among the various groups of people who view porn on daily basis. Many get introduced to it at a very tender age through peer influence, family or other sources. It was never their intention. And they never knew it can get as bad. Like drugs, they gradually got addicted to it, only to realise that it becomes a problem in life; a problem to one's spiritual growth and relationship with the LORD.


            Why You Don't Need Pornography


            Spiritually, pornography is a tool in the hands of the enemy which he uses to sow more evil seeds in people. One of his overall goals is to do his best to ensure people become more sinful and evil everyday, in reverse to what God is doing. We are not ignorant of the devices of the enemy and we can't afford to bring down ourselves to his level, to be ruled and ruined by him through porn. Any Christian who hasn't overcome the addiction to porn or isn't making serious efforts to overcome it isn't ready to grow spiritually, have they best relationship they can have with the LORD, walk in His promises and blessings and be used of Him to the fullest.

            It's medically proven that porn has negative effects on the human brain. According to researchers, when people view pornography, a hormone called dopamine is released in the brain which is responsible for emotions and learning. The more pornography that gets consumed, the more dopamine that is needed to produce the 'high' feeling, just like in drug addicts. This causes people to go for more and more porn. We can now see that the addiction to porn isn't different from addiction to drugs. More porn simply means more demand for dopamine by the brain. And it gets to a point where the brain gets exhausted and stops producing dopamine. This causes the individual to go unsatisfied no matter how much porn they watch and seek out different means to satisfy their desire. This is where self-pleasure comes in.

            If dopamine is also responsible for learning, then that directly tells us that pornography (and fornication in general) affects retentive memory! Uh... Did I just say that? The brain is the control room of the human body. Anything which affects the brain affects the entire person and makes them less-productive, academically and otherwise! No wonder the bible says that fornication means sinning against the body(1 Corinthians 6:18). I believe there are many reasons (some of which man doesn't know yet) why God demands that we stay away from sin. Not just so that we make Heaven, but also that we have good health and long life.

            Pornography is a killer. It kills dreams, plans, relationships, marriages and destinies if allowed to rule one's life. There are presently many Christians who are faced with the challenge of successfully breaking away from the addiction to porn. If you’re one of them, know that you're not in the struggle alone. The LORD desires the best for us. He is willing to set you free if you’re ready. Keenly follow the words on this blog post because it will help you in one way or the other, I believe!

            How To Break Free From Porn


            1 Corinthians 6:12 “All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything.

            It is the will of the LORD that we break free from whatever is holding us back from being our best on Earth, pleasing Him and making Heaven. That should also be the desire of every genuine Christian. God is always steps ahead of everything the enemy does to keep His Church from staying unspotted. No addiction is too hard for God to set us free from! Jesus Christ is the deliverer and He has made provision for all that we need to get free and stay free. We just have to harness them!

            1). GET SAVED: Let me use this opportunity to say that if you are not saved, you may not gain much from the teachings on this blog. Your deliverance starts from your salvation. You have to accept Jesus Christ into your life as your personal LORD and Saviour and be born again (John 3:4-7).

            2). RENEW THE MIND: The mind is the place from where thoughts emanate. Every action we take and decision we make on daily basis emanate from the mind. God speaks to the mind that has been renewed and trained to know His voice. Voices of the flesh and of the enemy also suggests sin to the mind.

            If anyone desires to break their addiction to pornography, renewing their mind is one great step towards achieving that. The mind is renewed by studying the Word of God on daily basis and watching over our thoughts so that we center our thinking only on godly and holy thoughts.

            Romans 12:2 KJV
            And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

            Philippians 4:8 KJV
            Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.

            Having a mind that has been modified by the world and sin to think only unholy thoughts will also lead us to unholy actions. When the flesh or the enemy suggests a thought to sin, if the individual dwells on that thought, it births a desire that further compels a sin action. And there is 90% possibility that the individual will put that thought into action.
            James 1:14 KJV
            But every man is tempted, when he is drawn away of his own lust, and enticed.. 

            The human mind seems completx but it isn't. We can understand and make it work the way God designed it to, not to our own destruction.

            3). GET BAPTISED IN AND FILLED WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT: Breaking free from the addiction to pornography is not by our strength. It's a matter of following scriptural principles through the strength and Grace supplied by the Holy Spirit. Mountains are removed only by Grace from the Holy Spirit (Zechariah 4:6-7). Staying filled with the Holy Spirit is directly proportional to having the ability to live holy.

            4). STAY PRAYED UP: We need much prayer to stay pure in today's world. Every genuine Christian who desires to stay pure, please God and become all that He destined them to be must become a prayer warrior. That's not debatable.

            5). STAY AWAY FROM UNGODLY MOVIES AND PLACES: This is basic. Prayer isn't enough. One must make deliberate decisions and take actions that will guarantee their total freedom. We can't pray and continue viewing porn and hope to be free from it. The point is to hate the sin that you want to be free from. What we want from the internet is what we get. Use your gadgets for productive things.
            1 Thessalonians 5:22 KJV
            Abstain from all appearance of evil.

            6). SEEK MORE COUNSELLING AND DELIVERANCE: Yes, the last but not the least. Though I believe if we follow what the Word says, we will have no need for deliverance from another man. The Holy Spirit is the best counsellor; Jesus Christ is the deliverer.

            If we get serious with God, we'll see chains begin to fall off our life one after the other till we become totally free from every shackle of darkness. My Prayer is that the LORD uses this piece to deliver, restore and bless someone reading it. Amen!

            Please Share! God bless you.

            How To Break Addiction To Pornography

            How The Mind Influence Sexual Purity


            We were all created as sexual beings. Every sane and healthy human being on Earth has that component as part of their being. Our sexuality is not what we should be shy of, scared of or explore outside Biblical principles!
              We live in a sex-crazed society, where sex is in high demand and sells like food. Not denying the fact that sex in marriage is holy and right, but it is true that some can not live pure even in their marriage, including Christians. They still have unholy fantasies, lust or call it 'a crush' on the handsome neighbour or beautiful sister in church.

              I can tell from experience, that the challenges Christians encounter in trying to stay pure in this present world are terrifying. But that's not an excuse either, the LORD still expects His own to be set apart and different from the rest.

              The LORD is calling His End Time Church to total consecration and holiness unto Him. This is necessary for the mighty works He intends to do through us before the end of this age! It is needful that we don't forget that He is also coming for a Church without spot or blemish (Ephesians 5:27).

              The plan of the enemy is to keep as many Christians as possible, tied to sexual sins so that they can not become productive in the Kingdom. The truth is that until Christians stop frowning at sexual purity messages, they're not ready to be mightily used of the LORD to impact the world around them. Our impact on Earth is directly proportional to how much consecrated we are to the LORD.

              What Is Sexual Purity?


              Sexual Purity is a deliberate, daily decision to live for the LORD and not for the Flesh; by empowerment of the Holy Spirit. It is part of taking up our cross and following our LORD JESUS CHRIST on daily basis (Mark 10:21). It goes far beyond what we do with our body. It's involves our thoughts, intents, behaviours and actions.

              The Holy Scriptures is clear on God's call on His Church to abstain from lust, fornication, adultery and all forms of sexual immortality. In the Old Testament, adultery was punishable by death.

              Leviticus 20:10 KJV
              And the man that committeth adultery with another man's wife, even he that committeth adultery with his neighbour's wife, the adulterer and the adulteress shall surely be put to death.

              That fact that we are not punished instantly for sin today because we live in the era of Grace should get us more concerned. Grace should neither be despised nor taken for granted. Grace is JESUS CHRIST and we crucify the Him afresh if we deliberately continue in sin (Hebrews 6:6). Temporary punishment is better than eternal separation from God. We risk getting separated from God is we abuse Grace.

              Romans 12:1 KJV
              I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service.

              The Mind And Sexual Purity


              Every genuine Christian desires to live a life which is pleasing to the LORD. Many have made decisions, vows and resolutions but only end up frustrated when they see themselves failing to live up to them time and again. The reality is that if we refuse to take the bull by the horns when it comes to living pure for Christ, we'll always see ourselves back to our vomit.

              Some of us don't care what comes in and goes out of our minds, then we wonder why it's hard to live a holy and consecrated life even after making decisions to. A passive mind is the devil's play ground!

              The mind is the battle-field. If it is fed holy inputs, our entire being will respond accordingly and live holy. But if the mind is fed unholy inputs, living a life of purity will be hard. I believe if Christians can grasp the power of their mind, they can harness it to do more productive things than letting the enemy have a field day in it and make them live in sin.

              Gates To The Mind


              The gates to the mind are through the ears and eyes. What we feed our ears and eyes determines the content of our mind, and thereby determine the manner of life we will live! In these last days, the enemy has devised a mind-control strategy which is targeted at the general public. The intention behind this is to carefully execute sinful materials through the media; the movie and music industries and even social media. We must not be caught in his trap!

              1. THE EARS: Evey Christian must be careful about what they feed their ears. Some Christians assume there is nothing wrong with listening to any sort of music but there definitely is! Songs are actually messages sent to the mind. With secular music, the enemy has devised the strategy of feeding man's mind with immorality! Why is it very easy for some Christians to recall and sing secular music lyrics from the beginning to the end without making a mistake but can't recall up to 10 bible verses with the same mind? That shows something isn't right with such mind! We must intentionally feed our ears the right inputs! There is nothing wrong with listening to good Christians music which glorifies the Lord (not the singers) and listening to audio gospel messages throughout the whole day!

              We must also avoid being in the wrong company and wrong places. Bad company corrupts good morals (1 Corinthians 15:33).

              Psalm 1:1 KJV
              Blessed is the man that walketh not in the counsel of the ungodly, nor standeth in the way of sinners, nor sitteth in the seat of the scornful.

              2. THE EYES: We must be intentional concerning what we feed our eyes with. We can't spend time on TV, YouTube or Netflix channels that don't glorify God and expect to live a life of purity. If they are not edifying but sinful, they're not worth seeing! There are many YouTube channels that offer great messages that can edify and help us grow spiritually.

              It's also needful to avoid places with immoral sights like unholy dressing. I must confess, the trend of sexually appealing dressing that we have in the Church today is not helping saints to maintain a life of purity!

              The most important thing we should feed our eyes with is the Word of God. Transformation comes by exposing oneself to the Word, not unholy videos and images.
              Psalm 119:9 KJV
              Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word.

              Watch Over The Mind Gates!


              We're not just expected to let our minds wander. A mature Christian is one who watches over his or her mind to ensure it's set on God, not vanity! Random unholy thoughts that do not glorify God which occasionally pop up in the mind shouldn't be given second thought but discarded. There are demons which specialize with feeding the mind unholy thoughts from the outside so that they can cause people to sin. By taking captive of thoughts, by the Grace of the Almighty we can have this in control.
              2 Corinthians 10:5 KJV
              Casting down imaginations, and every high thing that exalteth itself against the knowledge of God, and bringing into captivity every thought to the obedience of Christ;

              The Mind And Sexual Purity


              Romans 12:2 KJV
              And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God.

              We were all born into sin. As we grow, the society we grow up in adds to the accumulation of sin in our minds. Bad peer influence, ungodly home and many other factors add to it. When we get saved, we happen to notice there is a lot we must unlearn. We'll have to let God reprogramme our mind from thinking like the world and sinners to thinking like Christ! We must have the Christ-like kind of mind! That is where renewing the mind comes in.

              Ephesians 4:23 KJV
              And be renewed in the spirit of your mind;

              The fact that the holy Bible lays much emphasis on the need to get our minds renewed tells us of how much importance it is to our spiritual growth! It is difficult to grow and become all that the LORD wants us to be with a mind that is not renewed!

              The Word of God is a spiritual cleanser for the mind. Every Christian who is successfully living a life of purity is a student of the Word.
              Ephesians 5:26 KJV
              That he might sanctify and cleanse it with the washing of water by the word,

              Get the Word and stay in the Word. Ask the Holy Spirit to purge your mind from every thought accumulation that does not glorify Him and He will.

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              How The Mind Influence Sexual Purity

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