"And his brethren said to him, Shalt thou indeed reign over us? or shalt thou indeed have dominion over us? And they hated him yet the more for his dreams, and for his words."Genesis 37:8 ; "But his citizens hated him, and sent a message after him, saying, We will not have this man to reign over us."Luke 19:14

When Joseph told his family of his dreams, they were outraged at the suggestion that their younger brother would reign over them. They simply had no idea that God would make Joseph exactly the kind of ruler they needed. Likewise the world is outraged with Jesus' claim to be ruler of this world. Never mind that His astounding humility completely qualifies Him to be loved, worshiped and respected. Joseph won the hearts of his brothers by the grace, forgiveness and love that he showed them after they had rejected and sought to kill him. Jesus wins our hearts the same way, and yet we still find resistance to His authority in some areas of our lives. The longer I walk as a believer, the more I find myself between two realities. As my life becomes more consecrated and I realize how Holy He truly is, I become increasingly aware of my own true condition,"Woe is me, for I’m a man of unclean lips!" My life may seem to be holier to the world, while inside my spirit is crying out, "Lord, Help me!" It's because I can see and feel more clearly the areas in my soul that are still not submitted to Him. Yet His Spirit is constantly nudging me, "I want this part of your life too!" Brothers & Sisters, if the Spirit of God is nudging you to surrender something, somehow, somewhere... it’s time to give it over to Him. Don’t wait another day. Take a moment and say once again, "Lord I want you to reign over all my life!" WILL YOU LET HIM REIGN?

“Blessed are those who have been persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven. Blessed are you when people insult you and persecute you, and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of Me. Rejoice and be glad, for your reward in heaven is great.”Matthew 5:10-12

Jesus warned His disciples that they should expect to be hated. Why? “If the world hates you, you know that it has hated Me before it hated you” (John 15:18). These early disciples all would face various forms of hatred and persecution. Persecution of Believers has continued throughout history. Countless have died for their faith. More than 15 million Christians are estimated to have died in prison camps in the Soviet Union between 1921–50. And there have been many other organized campaigns of persecution and death against Believers. Today, persecution still is very real. Every day, Christians are being persecuted somewhere in the world. Churches are being burned. Pastors imprisoned. Men and women beaten. In fact, millions are risking their lives for their faith. For many, it takes courage just to attend church or confess to being a Christian. Millions of people in places like China must worship underground. Many in Muslim nations face death if it becomes known that they’re embracing Christianity. Brothers & Sisters in your life, remember these men and women who risk everything because of their faith. Pray for them. Give of your time, talent, and treasure that the Gospel might be spread throughout these spiritually dark areas of the world through satellite technology, the Internet, and other means. And also make sure you are standing strong in your own faith. Remember that God promises special blessings for those who endure persecution for the name of Jesus. Make sure Jesus is the Lord of your life and you are seeking first His Kingdom. Don’t give in to compromise, but remain faithful.

"Jesus answered and said unto them, Verily I say unto you, If ye have faith, and doubt not, ye shall not only do this which is done to the fig tree, but also if ye shall say unto this mountain, Be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; it shall be done."Matthew 21:21

An elderly teacher, with a pupil by his side, took a walk through a forest. Suddenly he stopped and pointed to four plants close at hand. The first was just beginning to peep above the ground, the second had rooted itself pretty well into the earth, the third was a small shrub, while the fourth was a full-sized tree. The tutor said to his young companion, 'Pull up the first plant.' The boy did so eagerly, using only his fingers. 'Now pull up the second.' The youth obeyed but found the task more difficult. 'Do the same with the third,' he urged. The boy had to use all his strength to uproot it. 'Now,' said the instructor, 'try your hand with the fourth.' The pupil put his arms around the trunk of the tall tree and couldn't even shake its leaves. 'This, my son, is just what happens with our bad habits. When they are young, we can remove them readily; but when they are old, it's hard to uproot them, though we try and struggle ever so sincerely.'" We all have weeds and even enormous Redwoods that need uprooting in our lives. It takes a LOT of effort to get strong enough to move those big ones on our own. Instead, let's take that same effort and start practicing faith in the Lord! Brothers & Sisters, Perhaps you're weary of pulling. God doesn't expect us to pull these bad habits ourselves. Let's ask the Lord to do the uprooting today and watch Him gain the victory! STOP YOUR PULLING!

“Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God.”Matthew 5:9

The memory of the Maccabees was vivid in the minds of the Jewish people throughout the time of Jesus’ earthly ministry. The very sight of Roman soldiers was a painful reminder that, under the Maccabees, the Jews had ruled their own kingdom. Many, like the zealots, hoped for a military uprising to end Roman rule. This included men like Simon the Zealot, one of Jesus’ disciples. But from the beginning of His ministry, Jesus demonstrated that He had a different mission. He had come to fulfill the ancient prophecy that He would be called the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). Peace was central to Jesus’ life and ministry. Announcing His birth, the angelic choir declared, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among men with whom He is pleased” (Luke 2:14). Jesus would tell His disciples, “Peace I leave with you; My peace I give to you” (John 14:27). And He gave them His Word “so that in Me you may have peace” (John 16:33). Jesus declared that God’s richest blessings were given to those who were “peacemakers.” The message of peace was central to the Gospel. Paul taught that peace was a fruit of the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Believers also could experience God’s peace as they prayed about everything and let their requests be made known to God. As they practiced the truths of the Gospel, they were promised that “the God of peace” would be with them (Philippians 4:6-9). Brothers & Sisters today, God still promises blessings to those who are passionate about seeking Him and serving Him. He gives favor to those who want to be instruments of His peace. This means a quest to bring reconciliation to families…heal sick bodies…restore those who are worried…and offer peace with God to all who are troubled.

"Wisdom and knowledge will be the stability of your times, And the strength of salvation; The fear of the Lord is His treasure."Isaiah 33:6

It was 1986, in the midst of a three year drought, when two brothers who lived in a kibbutz near the Sea of Galilee made an incredible discovery. As these two fisherman monitored their equipment on the lake, they noticed something glistening in the sun covered in mud. It was a fishing boat. Upon deeper examination, archaeologists determined that these two brothers had discovered an ancient boat from the time of Jesus. It's was called the "Jesus boat" and is now located in a museum next to the Sea of Galilee. Hidden under water for centuries, the only reason it was discovered was that the severe drought had lowered the lake surface so drastically; so that even when no one was looking for it -- this treasure was discovered totally unexpectedly. Brothers & Sisters, you may have noticed -- it's becoming more and more spiritually dry in this world and sometimes I wonder, will anything good ever come out of this mess? Yet I think the same thing can happen for us as happened to those two fisherman. When things get low, and dry, and sparse, suddenly when we least expect it, God can reveal treasure that we couldn't see or know about because everything was abundantly okay. Maybe it's a friendship that blossoms because of the pressure or need .. or, maybe just a new and deeper insight into the Lord's own sufferings; or maybe a new spiritual gift of encouragement.....there are many possibilities, and I think we ought to be looking for them, though they might appear when we least expect it. IN TIMES OF INTENSE DROUGHT -- FIND YOUR TREASURE!

“They are blessed whose thoughts are pure…for they will see God.”Matthew 5:8

To the common people of their time, the Pharisees appeared to see everything. On the surface, they seemed to have laser-like insights. But Jesus had another perspective. In reality, He said, they were “blind.” Why? Because they did not have spiritual discernment. Instead, they focused on outward appearances. Although Jesus knew that outward behavior was important, He taught that the inner person was more important. He urged the Pharisees to focus more on their inner lives. As the “inside” was cleaned, the outside also would become “clean” (Matthew 23:26). Jesus used the same Greek word that He used in His Sermon on the Mount, where He taught that God would bless those whose thoughts were “pure.” Being clean and pure is important to God. He directed Noah only to take “clean” animals into the ark (Genesis 7:2). The Israelites were to make a distinction between the unclean and the clean, and God provided detailed regulations regarding cleanness in their lives (Leviticus 10-15). Only those with “clean hands and a pure heart” can ascend His hill and “stand in His holy place” (Psalm 24:3-4). And, if we have sinned, we are to pray for God to create in us “a clean heart” (Psalm 51:10). Jesus promised a new dimension of living for those whose thoughts are pure: “They will see God.” Such people will be more in tune with God, enabling His Spirit to flow freely in their lives. They will so desire His presence that they seek to eliminate anything that displeases Him. God will transform the hearts of those who seek this purity. They will look at life in new ways. They will be freed from distractions, and they won’t be dominated by corruption in the world. They will seek first God’s Kingdom. Brothers & Sisters, do you want to experience God’s blessings? Seek purity of heart. Ask the Lord to make your heart right before Him.

"Now when Daniel knew that the writing was signed, he went into his house; and his windows being open in his chamber toward Jerusalem, he kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God, as he did aforetime."Daniel 6:10

Let's consider Daniel for a moment. Here is one of the great rulers of the Persian empire, in charge of the King's affairs and of the affairs of the entire government. Now if anyone is really busy -- it's Daniel! But in spite of all this, he makes it a point to set himself apart from the world and pray three times a day. This really got me. I mean, how busy are we -- really? And what are we really doing? Brothers & Sisters, it's like this. If we are neglecting the important things of God, we're simply doing more than God intended! Let's keep our priorities in order! Let's be a people of prayer! BUSY, BUSY, BUSY!

"Why do the heathen rage, and the people imagine a vain thing? The kings of the earth set themselves, and the rulers take counsel together, against the LORD, and against his anointed , saying, Let us break their bands asunder, and cast away their cords from us."Psalms 2:1-3 ; "Who by the mouth of thy servant David hast said, Why did the heathen rage, and the people imagine vain things? The kings of the earth stood up, and the rulers were gathered together against the Lord, and against his Christ. For of a truth against thy holy child Jesus, whom thou hast anointed, both Herod, and Pontius Pilate, with the Gentiles, and the people of Israel, were gathered together, For to do whatsoever thy hand and thy counsel determined before to be done."Acts 4:25-28

When Peter and John had gone up to the Temple for prayer [Acts 3], they saw a man who was lame from birth, and were moved to heal him in the name of Jesus. Immediately the religious leaders laid hands on them [Acts 4:3] and kept them imprisoned for a day. The following day, with boldness, they declared this miracle was done in the name of Jesus. I love what the "religious" leaders said next --- "they perceived that they were unlearned men and they marveled at their boldness!" Why were they bold? They had been with Jesus, and the leaders took note of that! It is no surprise that the world rages against the Messiah. Psalm 2 declares it clearly. Every year there are tens of thousands of believers suffering and dying for their faith, in large part because the kings and the rulers of the earth RAGE against the Lord and His Anointed. As followers of the King we should expect this and be prepared for it when it comes. Brothers & Sisters, but, the examples of Peter and John, and every other true Christian martyr, are there to inspire and encourage us that if and when the time of persecution comes for us, we too can be bold as a lion. And this boldness is no merely human bravery, but an unction from the Holy Spirit Himself. So, though the kings of the earth will rage, our simple faith and Holy Spirit boldness will testify that we too have been with Jesus! REACT WITH BOLDNESS!

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy.”Matthew 5:7

Rome reigned primarily because of its military prowess. That was clear to people throughout Judea. They could see the Roman legions and know their reputation. Theirs was an empire built by ruthless conquest, by violence and war. Rome had many rivals, and it was both feared and hated. From their own history, the Jews could see how Rome simply was the most recent nation to exercise this kind of control. They could recall how the Assyrians dominated the region through terror for almost 300 years. They also had seen how Persia, Babylon, and others had enforced their will through military power. Nations then and now have believed that ruthlessness was the path to dominance. Indeed, this approach often does result in short-term gains. Yet history shows that nations that rule by ruthlessness should not expect to receive mercy in return. In fact, they often became victims of the same kind of ruthlessness they employed. How should the people of Judea have reacted to the presence of Rome? Many expected them to answer Roman ruthlessness with a comparable and even more intense commitment to violence. But Jesus taught a completely different principle: He stressed the importance of mercy. If we want to be blessed by God, we are to “show mercy to others.” We are to realize that God shows mercy to those who are merciful. Even though nations that practice ruthlessness may appear to dominate, they often forget that God is the righteous Judge and ultimate Ruler. They ignore the fact that we always Reap what we Sow (Galatians 6:7). That means we need to forgive others if we want to receive God’s forgiveness (Matthew 6:14-15). Brothers & Sisters, do you want God’s mercy? Then seek to be merciful and compassionate. This even means loving your enemies (Luke 6:35). If you want to be blessed by God, this must be your attitude and lifestyle.

"He saw that there was no man, And wondered that there was no intercessor; Therefore His own arm brought salvation for Him; And His own righteousness, it sustained Him. For He put on righteousness as a breastplate, And a helmet of salvation on His head; He put on the garments of vengeance for clothing, And was clad with zeal as a cloak. According to their deeds, accordingly He will repay, Fury to His adversaries, Recompense to His enemies; The coastlands He will fully repay. So shall they fear The name of the Lord from the west, And His glory from the rising of the sun; When the enemy comes in, like a flood The Spirit of the Lord will lift up a standard against him."Isaiah 59:16-19

The Hebrew expression in this verse from Isaiah is rich with meaning. The root "nus" (from the expression "raise up a standard") is related to or sounds like numerous words which mean "sign", "miracle", "to drive away", "to flee", "cause to disappear", "a waving flag". This abundance of meanings in Isaiah's poetic style reveals the multiple dimensions of God's revelation; in this case, the way he deals with evil. The assertion in this word is that the Spirit of God will be powerfully activated when evil comes. Whether the enemy comes in like a flood, and then the LORD raises a standard against him...or, the enemy comes in, and like a flood, the LORD works miraculously and drives him away, the clear meaning and promise is that the presence of evil will not go unnoticed. God will respond powerfully, in His own way, and in His own time. We've often spoken of the increase of wickedness in these last days; virtually every day some new scandal appears. Evil is on the rise; its power being consolidated in many areas of social, political, and personal life. Our identification with the one true God who raises His standard in response to this wickedness, calls us to be His "standard bearers" in the midst of the flood of evil around us. This is not easy, but is a high calling for faith-filled and disciplined saints. Brothers & Sisters, our challenge now, more than ever before, is, do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. We cannot bear Jesus' standard if we yield to become like the world around us. Only by abiding, praying, staying close to Him, can we represent our Lord. Let's continue to encourage one another...daily. BE A STANDARD BEARER!

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.”Matthew 5:6

“Money Can’t Buy Happiness.” Money leads to autonomy but it does not add to well-being or happiness.” Once basic needs are met, “more money leads to marginal gains at best or even less well-being.” Instead, as people increase their earnings, they tend to become more competitive. They no longer focus on their needs. We see these kinds of patterns every day, for the culture around us encourages us to feel dissatisfied and incomplete. Advertising compels us to crave more and seek to possess what we don’t have. In practical terms, there often are justifiable reasons to buy new things. But the problem is not with things but with our hearts—our misguided attitudes and expectations. The Bible urges us to remember what happens so easily to our money: “What good is wealth—except perhaps to watch it slip through your fingers!” (Ecclesiastes 5:11 NLT) Jesus taught that the only people who truly are satisfied are those who aren’t obsessed with things but rather those who “hunger and thirst for righteousness.” Such people place a higher emphasis on doing what is right than on expanding what they own. They are focused on the quality of life rather than their quantity of possessions. How simple! How profound! In your life, seek to keep your eyes on God. Spend time daily in prayer, committing your needs to Him (Philippians 4:6-7). Trust Him to supply every need. Instead of being controlled by the world, seek first His Kingdom. Brothers & Sisters ask the Lord to help you do what is right in every situation. Practice contentment. And develop a spirit of thankfulness for all that God has provided for you. As you seek His Kingdom and focus on doing what is right, He promises that you will experience more of His blessings.

"This is how we know what love is: Jesus Christ laid down his life for us. And we ought to lay down our lives for our brothers."1 John 3:16

"On Sunday, believers arrived at a house church in the Soviet Union in small groups throughout the day so not to arouse the suspicion of KGB informers. They began by singing a hymn quietly. Suddenly, in walked two soldiers with loaded weapons at the ready. One shouted, "If you wish to renounce your commitment to Jesus Christ, leave now!" Two or three quickly left, then another. After a few more seconds, two more. "This is your last chance. Either turn against your faith in Christ," he ordered, "or stay and suffer the consequences." Two more slipped out into the night. No one else moved. Parents with children trembling beside them looked down reassuringly, fully expecting to be gunned down or imprisoned. The other soldier closed the door, looked back at those who stood against the wall and said, "Keep your hands up--but this time in praise to our Lord Jesus Christ. We, too, are Christians. We were sent to another house church several weeks ago to arrest a group of believers." The other soldier interrupted, "But, instead, we were converted! We have learned by experience, however, that unless people are willing to die for their faith, they cannot be fully trusted." (From "Living Above the Level of Mediocrity," by Chuck Swindoll). Wow. Can you imagine being faced with a decision to run or die for our faith? We are living in a day where this could very well become reality! But how many of us would be willing to stand? Brothers & Sisters, let's start deepening our relationship with the Lord today so that our minds may be focused on heavenly things and not consumed with the weight of all the worldly ones. That it would be easy for us to make a stand for Him should that day ever come. CAN WE BE TRUSTED?

HAKUNA MUNHU AKAONA MWARI

EKISODHO. 33:20 Akatiwo, Haungaoni chiso changu, nokuti hakuna munhu angandiona, akazorarama. JOHANI. 1:18 Hakunamunhu wakatongovona Mwari; chero nguva ipi; mwanakomana wakaberekwa mumwe woga, ari pachifuva chaBaba, nduye wakamuzivisa isu. JOHANI. 6:46 Handirevi kuti kuno munhu wakavona Baba; asi uyo uri waMwari, ndiye wakavona Baba. VAROMA. 1:20 Nokuti kubvira pakusikwa kwenyika, izvo zvake zvisingavonekwi, iro simba rake risingaperi novuMwari bwake, zvinovonekwa kwazvo, zvichizikanwa pazvinhu zvakaitwa, kuti varege kuva nepembedzo. VAKOROSE. 1:15 Ndiye mufananidzo waMwari usingavonekwi, dangwe rezvisikwa zvose. 1 TIMOTI. 1:17 Zvino iye Ishe usingaperi, usingafi, usingavonekwi, Mwari woga, wakachenjera ngaave nokukudzwa nokubwinya nokusingaperi-peri. Ameni. 1 TIMOTI. 6:15-16 Kwaachazoratidza panguva dzake, iye oga wakaropafadzwa noWamasimbaose, Mambo wamadzimambo, Ishe wamadzishe; 16 iye oga usingafi, ugere pachiedza chisingagoni kuti munhu aswedere kwachiri; usina kumbovonekwa nomunhu, vuye usingagoni kuvonekwa; kukudzwa nesimba risingaperi ngazvive kwaari. Ameni. 1 JOHANI. 4:12 Hakuna munhu wakambovona Mwari; kana tichidana, Mwari unogara matiri, norudo rwake runokwaniswa matiri.

SHOKO RAZVOKWADI

MATEO. 10:34-39 Musafunga kuti ndakavuya kuisa Rugare panyika, handina kuvuya kuisa Rugare asi munondo. 35 Nokuti ndakavuya kupesanisa munhu nababa vake, nomwanasikana namai vake nomukadzi womwana navamwene vake, 36 navavengi vomunhu vachava vemba yake. 37 Unoda baba kana mai kupfuvureni, haana kufanireni nounoda mwanakomana nomwanasikana kupfuvureni haanakufanireni. 38 Usingatori muchinjikwa wake akanditevera haana kufanireni. 39 Unowana vupenyu bwake ucharashikirwa nahwo asi unorashikirwa novupenyu hwake nokuda kwangu uchahwuwana. 2 VAKORINDE. 10:3-5 Nokuti, kunyangwe tichifamba nenzira yenyama, hatirwi nemitovo yenyama; 4 nokuti nhumbi dzedu dzokurwa nadzo hadzizi dzenyama, asi dzine simba pamberi paMwari rokuputsa nhare; 5 isu tinowisira pasi mifungo yose isina mature, nezvose zvino zvikwiridza zvichipesana neruzivo rwaMwari. VAEFESO. 4:15 Asi tireve zvokwadi murudo, tigokura maari pazvose, iye Kristu, Musoro. VAEFESO. 5:11 Regai kuyanana namabasa erima asine zvibereko, asi zvirinani kuti muraire. VAEFESO. 6:10-13 Pakupedzisira hama dzangu, ivai nesimba munaShe, nomusimba rake guru. 11 Shongai nhumbi dzose dzokurwa nadzo dzaMwari, mugone kumira muchirwa namano aDhiabhorosi. 12 Nokuti hatirwi nenyama neropa asi navabati, navanesimba, namadzishe enyika erima rino, nemweya yakaipa yedenga. 13 Saka torai nhumbi dzose dzokurwa nadzo dzaMwari, kuti mugone kudzivisa pazuva rakaipa, nokuramba mumire mapedza zvose. VAFIRIPI. 1:27-28 Asi fambai bedzi zvakafanira Evhangeri yaKristu; kuti kunyange ndikavuya ndikakuvonai, kunyange ndisipo, ndinzwe pamusoro penyu kuti mumire nesimba nomweya mumwe, nomoyo mumwe, muchirwa kutenda kweEvhangeri; 28 musingatyiswi pachinhu chimwe navanorwa nemi. Ndizvo zvichava chiratidzo chokuparadzwa kwavari, asi kwamuri chokuponeswa; chinhu ichi chinobva kunaMwari. 2 TIMOTI. 2:15 Shingaira kuti uzviratidze pamberi paMwari uri munhu wakatendeka, mubati usingafaniri hake kunyadziswa, unonatsa kururamisa shoko razvokwadi. 2 TIMOTI. 2:24-26 Zvino muranda waShe haafaniri kukakavara, asi ave Munyoro kuvanhu vose, unoziva kudzidzisa, unotsungirira pakuitirwa zvakaipa, 25 unodzidzisa novunyoro avo vanomudzivisa, kuti zvimwe Mwari avape kutendevuka vagoziva zvokwadi, 26 vapengenuke zve, vabve pamusungo waDhiabhorosi, wavakanga vakabatwa naye kuti vaite kuda kwake. 2 TIMOTI. 3:16-17 Rugwaro rwose rwakafuridzirwa naMwari, runobatsira pakudzidzisa, nokuraira, nokururamisa, nokuranga kuri mukururama, 17 kuti munhu waMwari akwane, agadzirire kwazvo mabasa ose akanaka. 2 TIMOTI. 4:2 Paridza shoko; ramba uchidaro nenguva yakafanira, kunyange isakafanira; raira, tuka, ranga nomoyo murefu zvukuru nokudzidzisa. TITO. 1:9 Unobatisisa shoko razvokwadi, sezvarinodzidziswa, kuti agone kuraira nedzidziso yakarurama, nokukunda vanokakavara. VAHEBHERU. 4:12-14 Nokuti shoko raMwari ibenyu, rinesimba, rinopinza kukunda munondo unocheka kumativi maviri, rinobaya kusvikira panoparadzana moyo nomweya, namafundo nomongo; rinotonga mifungo nendangariro dzomoyo. 13 Hakuna chisikwa chisingavonekwi naye, asi zvinhu zvose zvakafukurwa nokuzarurwa pameso iye watinofanira kuzvidavirira kwaari. 14 Naizvozvo, zvatinomuPrista mukuru kwazvo, wakapinda napakati pokudenga, iye Jesu, Mwanakomana waMwari, ngatibatisise kupupura kwedu. 1 PETRO. 3:15-16 Asi itai Ishe Mwari mutsvene mumoyo menyu ave Ishe; mugare makazvigadzira kupindura mumwe nomumwe unokubvunzai pamusoro petariro iri mukati menyu, asi muchiita novunyoro nokutya; 16 ivai nehana yakanaka, kuti pavanokucherai, ivo vanomhura mufambire wenyu wakanaka munaKristu, vanyadziswe. JUDHA. 1:3 Ngoni, norugare, norudo ngazviwanzwe kwamuri. JUDHA. 1:22-23 Ivai nengoni navamwe vanenyunyuto, 23 muvaponese muchivabvuta pamoto; vamwe muvaponese nokutya, muchivenga kunyange nenguvo yakasvibiswa nenyama.

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.”Matthew 5:3

Throughout history, ambitious men have looked for the moment to take action. They sought to recognize when circumstances were right for them to seize the moment. We might consider that Jesus Himself had one of those moments soon after He began His earthly ministry. He had taught in the synagogues and proclaimed “the gospel of the kingdom,” healing “every kind” of disease and sickness. Word spread, and multitudes flocked to hear Him. Here was a critical moment. Was this a time to galvanize His popular support and create a mass movement? Should He give a fiery address or organize an army to rise in revolt? No. But, for Jesus, this was the time to teach revolutionary concepts. The world Jesus lived in seemed to be dominated by the rich and powerful. Probably surprising to many, Jesus began by declaring that God had different standards. He was not moved by impressive résumés or accomplishments. Nor by political power, intellect, or human talents and abilities. Jesus said His Kingdom belonged to those who were “poor in spirit.” He sought those who depended on Him and realized that all the riches were His—those who worshiped and served Him. Jesus was confirming an Old Testament principle, where God said He was looking for people who were “humble and contrite of spirit, and who trembles at My word” (Isaiah 66:2). Brothers & Sisters, these same principles remain true today. Do you want to inherit God’s Kingdom and receive His blessings? Seek to stay humble before Him. Poor in spirit, but rich in faith.

"For if thou altogether holdest thy peace at this time, then shall there enlargement and deliverance arise to the Jews from another place; but thou and thy father's house shall be destroyed: and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?"Esther 4:14

Mordechai gave Esther a great challenge then, "and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?" This is a challenge for all of us! As each generation is raised up, God appoints men and women to rise up to the challenge of that age. We are alive in this day and in this hour (an amazing day and hour, at that) and God is saying, "Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?" He is awaiting those who will come forward and say here am I! And if we fall short of this challenge, "deliverance may arise from another place!" Brothers & Sisters, let's not let that happen -- God wants to use us! Let's rise to the occasion! God has great things ahead! TIME TO STEP UP!

NYASHA DZA ISHE JESU KRISTU

JOHANI. 1:17 Nokuti murairo wakapiwa naMoses, asi nyasha nezvokwadi zvakavuya naJesu Kristu. MABASA AVAPOSTORI. 15:11 Asi tinotenda kuti isu tichaponeswa nenyasha dzaShe Jesu Kristu nomutovo mumwe navo. MABASA AVAPOSTORI. 20:24 Asi hakuna chimwe chezvinhu izvi chinondidzosera shure uye handiverengi kuti upenyu hwangu hunokosha kwandiri kuti ndipedze rwendo rwangu nomufaro nebasa randakagamuchira kuna Ishe Jesu rokupupura kwazvo Evhangeri yenyasha dzaMwari. VAROMA. 3:23-25 Nokuti vose vakatadza vakasasvika pakubwinya kwaMwari. 24 Vanongoruramiswa nenyasha dzake nokudzikinurwa kuri munaKristu Jesu. 25 Iye wakagadzwa naMwari, kuti ave muyananiso nokutenda muropa rake, kuti kururama kwake kuratidzwe, nokuti zvivi zvakaitwa kare zvakaregerwa, Mwari achivaita moyo murefu. VAROMA. 4:4-5 Zvino kunounobate-basa, mubairo hainzi ndowenyasha, asi ndowengava. 5 Kunousingabati, asi unotenda kunaiye unoruramisa munhu usingadi Mwari, kutenda kwake kunonzi kwaari ndiko kururama. VAROMA. 5:2 Watakawana naye mapindire nokutenda munyasha idzi, dzatinomira madziri; ngatifare netariro yokuvona kubwinya kwaMwari. VAROMA. 5:15-21 Asi chipo chokungopiwa hachifanani nokudarika. Nokuti kana vazhinji vakafa nokudarika kwomumwe, zvikuru nyasha dzaMwari nechipo chakavuya nenyasha dzomunhu mumwe, Jesus Kristu, zvakawandira vazhinji. 16 Vuye chipo hachifanani nezvivi zvomunhu mumwe wakatadza; nokuti kutonga kwakavuya nomunhu mumwe kuti vapiwe mhosva; asi chipo chokungopiwa chakavuya nokudarika kuzhinji, kuti varuramisirwe. 17 Nokuti kana nokudarika kwomunhu rufu rwakabata vushe nomunhu uyu mumwe; zvikuru avo, vakapiwa kuwanda kwenyasha nokwechipo chokururama, vachabata vushe pavupenyu nomumwe, iye Jesu Kristu. 18 Naizvozvo, kutonga sezvakwakavuya kuvanhu vose nokudarika kumwe, kuti vapiwe mhosva; saizvozvo nokururama kumwe chipo chokungopiwa chavuya kuvanhu vose, kururamisirwa kwovupenyu kukavapo. 19 Nokuti vazhinji sezvavakaitwa vatadzi nokusateerera kwomumwe, saizvozvo vazhinji vachaitwa vakarurama nokuterera kwomumwe. 20 Murairo wakapinda vo kuti kudarika kuwande; zvino zvivi pazvakawanda, nyasha dzakawanda nokupfuvurisa; 21 kuti zvivi sezvazvakabata vushe parufu, saizvozvo nyasha dzibate vushe nokururama, zviise kuvupenyu bwusingaperi naJesu Krisu Ishe wedu. VAROMA. 6:14 Nokuti zvivi hazvingavi nesimba pamusoro penyu; nokuti hamuzi pasi pomurairo asi pasi penyasha. VAROMA. 6:23 Nokuti mubairo wezvivi ndirwo rufu; asi chipo chokungopiwa chaMwari ndibwo vupenyu bwusingaperi munaKristu Jesu, Ishe wedu. VAROMA. 11:6 Zvino kana kusanangura kuri kwenyasha, hakuzati kuchiri kwamabasa; kana zvisakadaro, nyasha hadzichiri nyasha. Asi kana kuri kwamabasa hakuzati kuchiri kwenyasha. Kana zvisakadaro basa harizati richiribasa. 2 VAKORINDE. 12:9-10 Iye akati kwandiri; Nyasha dzangu dzinokuringana; nokuti simba rangu rinozadziswa pavutera bwako. Naizvozvo zvirinani kuti ndizvirumbidze nomufaro mukuru novutera bwangu, kuti simba raKristu rigare pamusoro pangu. 10 Naizvozvo ndinofara novutera, nokuzvidzwa, nokushaiwa, nokutambudzika, nenhamo nokuda kwaKristu; nokuti kana ndivutera, ipapo ndinesimba. VAGARATIA. 2:21 Handikonesi nyasha dzaMwari nokuti kana kururamiswa kuchibva kumurairo, Kristu wakafa pasina. VAGATIA. 5:4 Makaparadzaniswa naKristu, iyemi munoda kururamiswa nomurairo; mabudiswa panyasha. VAEFESO. 1:7 Uyo watine dzikinuro maari neropa rake, iko kukanganwirwa kwokudarika kwedu, nokuwanda kwenyasha dzake. VAEFESO. 2:1-9 Wakakuraramisai imi, makanga makafa mukudarika kwenyu nomuzvivi zvenyu, 2 izvo zvamaifamba mukati mazvo kare, netsika dzenyika ino, nenzira dzomuchinda wesimba redenga, dzomweya unobata zvino muvana vokusaterera; 3 vataifamba tose pakati pavo kare, muckuchiva kwenyama yedu, tichiita kuda kwenyama nokwokufunga kwedu, napakuzvarwa kwedu isu navamwe vose taiva vana vokutsamwirwa. 4 Zvino Mwari unenyasha zhnji, nokuda kworudo rwake rukuru, rwaakatida narwo. 5 kunyange takanga takafa mukudarika kwedu, wakatiraramisa pamwe chete naKristu (makaponeswa nenyasha; 6 akatimutsa pamwe naye, akatigarisa kudenga pamwe chete naye, munaKristu Jesu; 7 kuti nenguva dzinovuya aratidze fuma huru huru yenyasha dzake pavunyoro bwake kwatiri munaKristu Jesu; 8 nokuti makaponeswa nenyasha, nokutenda; izvo zvisingabvi kwamuri, asi chipo chaMwari; 9 hazvibvi pamabasa, kuti kurege kuva nomunhu unozvikudza. VAEFESO. 4:7 Asi mumwe nomumwe wedu wakapiwa nyasha nechiyero chechipo chaKristu. 2 TIMOTI. 1:8-10 Naizvozvo usanyadziswa nokupupura Ishe wedu, kana ini, musungwa wake, asi utambudzike pamwe chete neni nokuda kweEvhangeri nesimba raMwari, 9 wakatiponesa, akatidana nokudana kutsvene, zvisingabvi pamabasa edu, asi nokufunga kwake, nenyasha dzaakatiitira munaKristu Jesu nguva dzisati dzavapo, 10 asi kwakaratidzwa zvino nokuvonekwa kwoMuponesi wedu, Kristu Jesu, iye wakaparadza rufu, akabudisa pachena vupenyu nokusavora nenzira yeEvhangeri. TITO. 3:4-7 Asi vunyoro bwaMwari, Muponesi wedu, norudo rwake kuvanhu, zvakati zvavonekwa, 5 wakatiponesa, asingazviiti nokuda kwamabasa akarurama, atakanga taita isu, asi nokuda kwenyasha dzake, nenzira yokushambidzwa kwokuberekwa kutsva nokuvandudzwa noMweya Mutsvene, 6 waakadurura achiwanza pamusoro pedu, naJesu Kristu Muponesi wedu, 7 kuti isu, taruramiswa nenyasha dzake, tiitwe vadyi venhaka nokuda kwetariro yovupenyu bwusingaperi. VAHEBHERU. 4:16 Naizvozvo, ngatiswederei tisingatyi kuchigaro chovushe chenyasha, kuti tinzwe ngoni, tiwane nyasha, tibatsirwe nenguva yakafanira.

“When Jesus saw the crowds, He went up on the mountain; and after He sat down, His disciples came to Him. He opened His mouth and began to teach them.”Matthew 5:1-2

Here, in His first major teaching recorded in Scripture, Jesus made it clear that the Gospel was for everyone. As we examine His “Sermon on the Mount,” we see constant references to attitudes and conditions of the heart. God’s blessings, He taught, were available to anyone who was poor in spirit and pure in heart. God wasn’t impressed by those who were honored and recognized in the world, but He sought those who “hunger and thirst for righteousness.” His blessings were not for those who were strong and powerful, but those who were gentle and merciful. He favored not those who were successful and popular, but those who were insulted, persecuted, and falsely accused. Jesus was describing something revolutionary and new—a faith and a way of life that was for people of all races, classes, and tribes. It included both men and women, Jews and Gentiles. On the Day of Pentecost, Peter confirmed this principle by telling the crowds “that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved” (Acts 2:28). And Paul later wrote: “There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, there is neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus” (Galatians 3:28). In the Gospel, “there is no distinction between Greek and Jew, circumcised and uncircumcised, barbarian, Scythian, slave and freeman, but Christ is all, and in all” (Colossians 3:11). And Paul stressed that “there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, abounding in riches for all who call on Him” (Romans 10:12). Brothers & Sisters, the Gospel still is for everyone—for your family and friends, and even for your enemies. Truly, anyone can be saved. Dedicate yourself to being an instrument of salvation. Let God use you!

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

A king was seated in a garden, and one of his counselors was speaking of the wonderful works of God. "Show me a sign," said the king, "and I will believe." "Here are four acorns," said the counselor, "will you, Majesty, plant them in the ground, and then stoop down for a moment and look into this clear pool of water?" The king did so, "Now," said the other, "look up." The king looked up and saw four oak-trees where he had planted the acorns. "Wonderful!" he exclaimed, "This is indeed the work of God." "How long were you looking into the water?" asked the counselor. "Only a second," said the king. "Eighty years have passed as a second," said the other. The king looked at his garments; they were threadbare. He looked at his reflection in the water; he had become an old man. "There is no miracle here, then," he said angrily. "Yes," said the other, "it is God's work, whether he did it in one second or in eighty years. Some of us are in need of answers today. We've been crying out for the Lord and feel like He's not listening. But He is! And He has a plan far greater than any of us could ask or think! Brothers & Sisters, be encouraged! Let's choose to trust that God has great plans for us in the making, regardless of whether we can see them right now. His timing is PERFECT! SHOW ME A SIGN!

MWARI AAZI MUNHU

NUMERI. 23:19 Mwari haazi munhu. Haangarevi nhema; Kunyange Mwanakomana womunhu Haangashanduki; Chaakataura, haangachiiti kanhi? Chaakataura haangachisimbisi kanhi? JOBHO. 42:2 Ndinoziva kuti imi munogona kuita zvose, Uye kuti hakuna chamunovavarira chingadziviswa. MAPISAREMA. 102:26-27 Zvichaparara izvo, asi imi muchagara muripo; Zvirokwazvo, izvozvo zvose zvichasakara senguvo; Muchazvishandura sechisimiro, zvikashanduka; 27 Asi imi hamushanduki, Makore enyu haangavi nomugumo. MAPISAREMA. 139:1-6 Jehovha, imi makandinzvera, nokundiziva. 2 Munoziva kugara kwangu pasi nokusimuka kwangu, Munonzwisisa kufunga kwangu muri kure. 3 Munocherekedza kufamba kwangu nokuvata kwangu pasi, Munoziva nzira dzangu dzose. 4 Nokuti shoko risati ravapo parurimi rwangu, Tarirai, imi Jehovha, matoriziva rose. 5 Makandikomberedza shure kwangu nemberi, Nokuisa ruoko rwenyu pamusoro pangu. 6 Kuziva kwakadai kunondishamisa kwazvo; Zviri kumusoro, handigoni kusvikira kwazviri. ISAYA. 43:10 Zvanzi naJehovha, zvapupu zvangu, nomuranda wangu, wandakasanangura, kuti muzive, mugonditenda, munzwisise kuti ndini iye; hakuna mumwe mwari wakanditangira pakuumbwa, shure kwangu hakungazovipo mumwe. ISAYA. 44:6-8 Zvanzi naJehovha, Mwari wavaIsraeri, noMudzikinuri wavo, Jehovha wehondo, ndini wokutanga nowokupedzisira; kunze kwangu hakuna Mwari. 7 Ndianiko angadana seni nokuzviparidza, nokuzvigadzirira izvo, kubva panguva yandakagadza vanhu vakarekare? Zvinhu zvinouya, nezvinozoitika, ngavazviparidze izvo. 8 Musatya henyu, musavhunduka; handina kukuparidzirai izvozvo kare, nokukuratidzai here? Imi muri zvapupu zvangu. Kunomumwe Mwari kunze kwangu here? Zvirokwazvo, hakuna rimwe dombo, ini handirizivi. ISAYA. 45:21-22 Paridzai, muzvibudise; zvirokwazvo, ngavarangane pamwechete, vachiti, ‘Ndiani akazviratidza izvi kubvira panguva yekare-kare? Ndiani akazviparidza pakutanga? Handizini Jehozha here? Hakuna mumwe Mwari kunze kwangu, Mwari akarurama noMuponesi, hakuna mumwe kunze kwangu. 22 Tarirai kwandiri muponeswe imwi mativi ose enyika nokuti ndini Mwari hakuna mumwe. JEREMIA. 23:24 Ko munhu uripo ungavanda panzvimbo dzisingazikanwi, ini ndikasamuona here? Ndizvo zvinotaura Jehovha. Ko ini handizadzi denga nenyika here? Ndizvo zvinotaura Jehovha. MARAKI. 3:6 Nokuti ini Jehovha handishanduki, saka imi, vanakomana vaJakobho, mugere kuparadzwa. MATEO. 19:26 Jesu ndokuvatarira, akati kwavari: kuvanhu izvi hazvibviri, asi kuna Mwari zvose zvinobvira. RUKA. 24:39 Tarirai zvanza zvangu netsoka dzangu, kuti ndini ndimene. Ndibatei, muvone, nokuti mweya haunenyama namapfupa, sezvamunondivona ndinazvo ini. JAOHANI. 1:3 Zvinhu zvose zvakaitwa naye; kunze kwake hakuna kuitwa kunyange chinhu chimwe chakaitwa. JOHANI. 4:24. Mwari ndiMweya; vanomunamata, vanofanira kumunamata mumweya nezvokwadi. VAROMA. 1:22-23 Vachiti, takachenjera, vakava mapenzi; 23 vakashandura kubwinya kwaMwari usingafi, vakakuita mufananidzo wakafanana nomunhu unofa, neshiri, nemhuka dzinamakumbo mana, nezvinokambaira. 1 VAKORINDE. 8:6 Asi isu tinongova naMwari mumwe bedzi, ndivo Baba; zvinhu zvose zvinobva kwaari, nesu tiripo nokuda kwake; vuye Ishe mumwe, Jesu Kristu; zvinhu zvose zviripo naye, nesu tiripo naye. VAFIRIPI. 2:6-7 Iye, kunyange akanga akafanana naMwari, haana kuti kuenzana naMwari ndechinhu chinofanira kubatisiswa; 7 asi wakazviita usina mature, akazvitorera chimiro chomuranda, akaitwa nomufananidzo womunhu. VAKOROSE. 1:15 Ndiye mufananidzo waMwari usingavonekwi, dangwe rezvisikwa zvose. VAKOROSE. 1:16 Nokuti maari zvinhu zvose zvakasikwa, zviri kudenga napanyika, zvinovonekwa nezvisingavonekwi, kana zviri zvigaro zvovushe kana vushe, kana vabati, kana masimba; zvinhu zvose zvakasikwa naye, zviripo nokuda kwake. VAHEBHERU. 1:2-3 Zvino pakupedzisira kwamazuva ano wakataura kwatiri muMwanakomana wake, waakaita mudyi wenhaka yezvinhu zvose, waakaita vo naye nyika; 3 iye chadzera chokubwinya kwake, nomufananidzo wake chaiye, unotakura zvinhu zvose neshoko resimba rake, wakati anatsa zvivi zvedu iye pachake, akagara kurudyi rwoVumambo kudenga. VAHEBHERU. 1:10-12 Vuye, imi, Ishe, makateya nheyo dzenyika pakutanga, Nedenga ndiro basa ramavoko enyu. 11 Iro richipera, asi imi mucharamba muripo, Richasakara rose senguvo; 12 Mucharipeta sechinofukwa, Senguvo, rikashandurwa; Asi imi makangodaro, namakore enyu haangagumi. VAHEBHERU. 13:8 Jesu Kristu unogara akadaro zuro, nanhasi, nokusingaperi. JAKOBHO. 1:17 Zvipo zvose zvakanaka nezvipiwa zvose zvakanaka zvinobva kumusoro, zvichiburuka kunaBaba vezviedza, uyo usina kupinduka kana mumvuri wokushanduka.

“Good understanding produces favor, but the way of the treacherous is hard.”Proverbs 13:15

The Bible describes how our actions and attitude can result in favor. But what are the keys? What do we need to do? One key is having “good understanding.” This is more than just accumulating information. It means having spiritual insight and discernment. It implies we must have good sense and know how to succeed. This explains why it is important to seek wisdom and understanding—to realize the importance of seeking God, knowing His Word, and putting it into practice. We always must remember that “the fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom” (Psalm 111:10). As we revere and honor God, and put His commandments into practice, we embrace a lifestyle that leads to a “good understanding.” We receive insight from Him and gain His favor. This “understanding is a fountain of life to one who has it” (Proverbs 16:22). But the Bible provides a strong contrast in describing the “treacherous.” These people are unfaithful and betray others. Instead of being honest, they are willing to cover up their true motives and disguise their desires. They are willing to obtain their objectives by being sneaky, devious, and underhanded. They employ these tactics and strategies because they think this is the way to succeed. And, for a season, they may enjoy success, at least in the eyes of the world. Yet the Bible warns that their way is “hard.” These attitudes become ingrained. They become habits that are employed throughout their lives, in every area. This becomes “their ruin”. Do you want favor from God? Seek His wisdom and understanding. Study His Word, and put it into practice. Fear God, and submit your life to Him. And seek to please Him. Brothers & Sisters, these are steps that lead to real and lasting favor. This favor from God will become a “fountain of life” for you.

"The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God."Isaiah 40:3

Many believers have a special place, a quiet place where they go to spend time with the Lord. This is a very important thing. But how many believers have actually 'prepared a way' for the Lord? As sacred as that special quiet place is to us, it is limited. It has definite boundaries. But a way never ends--it goes on and on. The key of a life of blessing is not preparing God places to fill, but preparing a way for Him. The Hebrew word for way is 'derech'. Derech means a path, or a way of life. Brothers & Sisters, if we want to be blessed, we need to prepare a derech in our lives. We need to develop Godly ways, Godly habits, Godly consistency and practices. We need to turn all our holy places into holy ways that carry on throughout our daily lives. The blessings of God need to flow through us to others around us-- let's give Him a derech through which to do so. PREPARE THE WAY!

ZVIBEREKO ZVAKANAKA

MATEO. 5:16 Saizvozvo chiedza chenyu ngachivhenekere pamberi pavanhu kuti vavone mabasa enyu akanaka, vakudze Baba venyu vari kudenga. MATEO. 6:1-6 Chenjerai kuti murege kuita kururama kwenyu pamberi pavanhu, kuti muvonekwe navo. Kana madaro hamuna mubairo kuna Baba venyu vari kudenga. 2 Zvino kana uchipa varombo zvipo, rega kuridza hwamanda pamberi pako sezvinoita vanyengeri mumasinagoge nomunzira dzomumusha kuti vakudzwe navanhu. Zvirokwazvo ndinoti kwamuri vapiwa mubairo wavo. 3 Asi iwe kana uchipa zvipo, ruvoko rwako rworuboshwe ngarurege kuziva chinoitwa norudyi rwako. 4 Kuti kupa kwakwo kuve pakavanda. Ipapo Baba vako vanovona pakavanda vachakupa mubairo, panovonekwa navose. 5 Kana muchinyengetera, musava savanyengeri nokuti vanofarira kunyengetera vamire mumasinagoge napamharadzano dzenzira dzomumusha kuti vavonekwe navanhu. Zvirokwazvo ndinoti kwamuri vapiwa mubairo wavo. 6 Asi iwe kana uchinyengetera, pinda muimba yako yomukati. Kana wazarira mukova wako, unyengetere kuna Baba vako vari pakavanda. Zvino Baba vako vanovona pakavanda vachakupa mubairo panovonekwa navose. MATEO. 7:15-20 Chenjerai vaporofita venhema. Vanovuya kwamuri vanenguvo dzamakwai asi mukati ari mapere anoparadza. 16 Muchavaziva nezvibereko zvavo. Mazambiringa anombotanhwa paminzwa here, kana mavonde parukato? 17 Saizvozvo muti mumwe nomumwe wakanaka unobereka zvibereko zvakanaka asi muti wakaipa unobereka zvibereko zvakaipa. 18 Muti wkanaka haungabereki zvibereko zvakaipa nomuti wakaipa haungabereki zvibereko zvakanaka. 19 Muti mumwe nomumwe usingabereki zvibereko zvakanaka, unotemwa ukakandirwa mumoto. 20 Saka muuchavaziva nezvibereko zvavo. MATEO. 21:43 Naizvozvo ndinoti kwamuri: Muchatorerwa imi vushe bwaMwari, bwukapiwa vanhu vanobereka zvibereko zvabwo. MATEO. 28:19-20 Enai naizvozvo mudzidzise marudzi ose, muvabhabhatidze muzita raBaba nero Mwanakomana neroMweya Mutsvene. 20 Muvadzidzise kuchengeta zvose zvandakakurairai imi. Tariarai ndenemi mazuva ose, kusvikira pakuguma kwenyika. RUKA. 3:8 Dzimwe dzakawira muvhu rakanaka, dzikamera, dzikabereka zvibereko zvinezana. Akati ataura izvozvo, akadanidzira, achiti: Unenzeve dzokunzwa, ngaanzwe. VAROMA. 7:4 Saka hama dzangu nemi vo makaitwa vakafa kumurairo nomuviri waKristu; kuti muve womumwe, iye wakamutswa pavakafa, kuti tiberekere Mwari zvibereko. VAROMA. 12:1 Naizvozvo ndinokumbira zvikuru kwamuri, hama dzangu, netsitsi dzaMwari, kuti muise miviri yenyu, chive chibayiro chipenyu, chitsvene, chinofadza Mwari, ndiko kunamata kwenyu kwomoyo. VAGARATIA. 2:20 Ndakaroverwa pamuchinjikwa pamwe chete naKristu; handichiri ini ndinorarama, asi Kristu unorarama mandiri; kurarama uku, kwandinorarama nako munyama zvino, ndinorarama nokutenda kuri muMwanakomana waMwari; wakandida akazvipa nokuda kwangu. VAGARATIA. 5:16-25 Zvino ndinoti: Fambai noMweya, ipapo hamungati kuchiva kwenyama. 17 Nokuti nyama inochiva ichirwa noMweya, noMweya uchirwa nenyama; nokuti izvi zvinorwisana; kuti murege kuita zvamunoda. 18 Asi kana muchitungamirirwa noMweya, hamuzi pasi pomurairo. 19 Zvino mabasa enyama anovonekwa anoti: Vupombwe, netsvina, novutere. 20 nokunamata zvifananidzo, novuroyi, nokuvengana, negakava, negodo, nokutsamwa, nokupesana, nokuparadzana, nedzidziso dzakatsauka, 21 nokugodorana, nokuvuraya, nokubatiwa, nokutamba kwakaipa, nezvinhu zvakadai; izvo zvandinokuvudzai zvino, sezvandakambokuvudzai kare, kuti vanoita zvakadai havangadyi nhaka yovushe bwaMwari. 22 Zvino chibereko choMweya ndirwo rudo, nomufaro, norugare, nomoyo murefu, nomoyo Munyoro, nokunaka, nokutendeka. 23 novunyoro, nokuzvidzora; hakuna murairo unodzivisa zvinhu zvakadai. 24 Asi avo vari vaKristu Jesu vakaroverwa pamuchinjikwa nyama, pamwe chete nokuda kwayo, nokuchiva kwayo. 25 Kana tichirarama noMweya, ngatifambe vo noMweya. VAEFESO. 2:10 Nokuti tiri basa rake, takasikwa kuti munaKristu Jesu tiite mabasa akanaka, akagadzirwa kare naMwari kuti tifambe maari. VAFIRIPI. 2:13 Nokuti ndiMwari unobata mukati menyu, kuti mude vuye muite kuda kwake kwakanaka. VAKOROSE. 1:10 Kuti mufambe sezvinofanira Ishe, muchimufadza pazvose, muchibereka zvibereko pamabasa ose akanaka, muchikura pakuziva Mwari kwazvo. 1 TIMOTI. 6:18 Kuti vaite zvakanaka, vave vafumi pamabasa akanaka, vafarire kupa vamwe, nokugovana. TITO. 2:14 Wakazvipa nokuda kwedu, kuti atidzikinure pazvisakarurama zvose, kuti azvinatsire vanhu vave vake chaivo, vanhu vanoshingairira mabasa akanaka. TITO. 3:8, 14 Ishoko razvokwadi, vuye ndinoda kuti usimbise kwazvo zvinhu izvi, zvokuti avo vakatenda Mwari vachenjere kuti varambe vachiita mabasa akanaka. Ndizvo zvakanaka, zvinobatsira vanhu. 14 Vanhu vedu ngavadzidze vo kuramba vachiita mabasa akanaka, kuti vabatsire panoshaikwa zvinofanira kuvapo, kuti varege kuva vanhu vasinezvibereko. VAHEBHERU. 10:24 Ngatirangarirane, timutsane moyo kuti tive murudo namabasa akanaka. JAKOBHO. 2:14 Zvinobatsirei hama dzangu, kana munhu achiti; ndinokutenda, asi asinamabasa? Ko kutenda uku kungamuponesa here? JAKOBHO. 3:17 Asi kuchenjera, kunobva kumusoro, zvikuru kwakachena, vuye kunorugare, kunyoro, kunoterera, kuzere nengoni nezvibereko zvakanaka, kusingatsauri kusinganyengeri.

SHOKO RAMWARI

MAPISAREMA. 119:105 Shoko renyu ndiwo mwenje wetsoka dzangu, nechiedza panzira yangu. ISAYA. 55:10-11 Nokuti mvura nechando sezvazvinoburuka zvichibva kudenga, zvisingazodzokeriko, asi zvinodiridza nyika, zvichiiberekesa nokutungisa maruva, ichipa mudzvari mbewu, nomudyi zvokudya, 11 ndizvo zvichaita shoko rangu rinobuda mumuromo mangu; haringadzokeri kwandiri risina, asi richaita zvandinoda, richiendaka pane zvandakaritumira. MATEO. 24:35 Denga nenyika zvichapfuvura asi mashoko angu haangatongopfuvuri. MAKO. 13:31 Denga nenyika zvichapfuvura, asi mashoko angu haangatongopfuvuri. RUKA. 21:33 Denga nenyika zvichapfuvura, asi mashoko angu haangatongopfuvuri. JOHANI. 8:31-32 Zvino Jesu wakati kuvaJudha avo, vakanga vamutenda: Kana imi muchigara mushoko rangu, muri vadzidzi vangu zvirokwazvo, 32 Muchaziva zvokwadi, nezvokwadi ichakusunungurai. MABASA AVAPOSTORI. 17:11 Ava vakanga vachinzwisisa kukunda veTesaronika, vakagamuchira shoko nomwoyo wose, vachinzvera Mangwaro zuva rimwe nerimwe, kana zvinhu izvozvo zviri izvo. VAROMA. 10:17 Naizvozvo kutenda kunovuya nokunzwa, nokunzwa kunovuya neshoko raMwari. 2 TIMOTI. 3:14-17 Asi iwe, rambira panezvawakadzidza zvikasimbiswa kwauri, uzive kuti wakazvidzidza kunani, 15 kuti kubvira pavucheche bwako wakaziva Manyoro Matsvene anogona kukupa vuchenjeri bwunoisa kuponeswa nokutenda kuri munaKristu Jesu. 16 Rugwaro rwose rwakafuridzirwa naMwari, runobatsira pakudzidzisa, nokuraira, nokururamisa, nokuranga kuri mukururama, 17 kuti munhu waMwari akwane, agadzirirwe kwazvo mabasa ose akanaka. VAHEBHERU. 4:12-14 Nokuti shoko raMwari ibenyu, rinesimba, rinopinza kukunda munondo unocheka kumativi maviri, rinobaya kusvikira panoparadzana moyo nomweya, namafundo nomongo; rinotonga mifungo nendangariro dzomoyo. 13 Hakuna chisikwa chisingavonekwi naye, asi zvinhu zvose zvakafukurwa nokuzarurwa pameso iye watinofanira kuzvidavirira kwaari. 14 Naizvozvo, zvatinomuPrista mukuru kwazvo, wakapinda napakati pokudenga, iye Jesu, Mwanakomana waMwari, ngatibatisise kupupura kwedu. 2 PETRO. 1:19 Vuye tineshoko rovuporofita rakasimba kwazvo, ramunoita zvakanaka kana muchiriterera, rakaita somwenje unovhenekera munerima, kusvikira vutonga bwuchitsuka, nenyamasase ichibudira moyo yenyu. 2 PETRO. 3:15-16 Muchiti, moyo murefu waShe wedu ruponeso; saPauro, hama yedu inodikanwa, akakunyorerai vo nokuchenjera kwaakapiwa; 16 sezvaanotaura mumwadhi dzake dzose pamusoro pezvinhu izvi; madziri munezvimwe zvikukutu kunzwisiswa; zvino munamiswa, samamwe magwaro vo, navasingazivi navasinesimba, kusvikira vaparadzwa.

VANAKRISTU VENHEMA

MATEO. 24:23 Zvino kana munhu akati kwamuri, tarirai Kristu uri pano kana apo, regai kutenda. MATEO. 24:24 Nokuti vachamuka vanaKristu venhema navaprofita venhema vachiratidza zviratidzo zvikuru nezvinoshamisa kuti kana zvichibvira vatsause navasanangurwavo. MATEO. 24:25-26 Tarira ndagara ndakuvudzai. 26 Zvino kana vakati kwamuri, tarirai uri kurenje, regai kubuda. Tarirai uri mudzimba dzomukati, regai kutenda. MATEO. 24:27 Nokuti semheni inobva kumabvazuva ichipenyera kumavirira ndizvo zvichaita kuvuya kwoMwanakomana womunhu. MAKO. 13:21-22 Zvino kana munhu achiti kwamuri; Tarirai Kristu uri pano, tarirai uri papo, regai kutenda. 22 Nokuti vana Kristu venhema vachamuka, navaprofita venhema vachaita zviratidzo nezvinoshamisa, kuti vatsause vakasanangurwa, kana zvichibvira. 2 VAKORINDE. 11:4 Nokuti kana mumwe achivuya unoparidza mumwe Jesu, watisina kumboparidza isu, kana zvimwe muchigamuchira mumwe mweya, wamusina kumbogamuchira kana imwe Evhangeri, yamusinakumbogamuchira, kana imwe Evhangeri, yamusina kumbotenda, zvino nomuitira moyo murefu kwazvo.

SHOKO RENHEMA

2 VAKORINDE. 11:4 Nokuti kana mumwe achivuya unoparidza mumwe Jesu, watisina kumboparidza isu, kana zvimwe muchigamuchira mumwe mweya, wamusina kumbogamuchira kana imwe Evhangeri, yamusinakumbogamuchira, kana imwe Evhangeri, yamusina kumbotenda, zvino momuitira moyo murefu kwazvo. 2 VAKORINDE. 11: 14 Naizvozvo hazvishamisi; nokuti kunyange naSatani vo unozvishandura, achizviita somutumwa wechiedza. VAGARATIA. 1:6-9 Ndinoshamiswa kuti munokurumidza mukadai kushandukira uyo wakakudanai munyasha dzaKristu, kuti mutaukire kune imwe evhangeri; 7 isati, iri imwe hayo; asi kuti vamwe varipo vanokukanganisai, vachida kushandura Evhangeri yaKristu. 8 Asi kunyange isu, kana mutumwa unobva kudenga, akakuparidzirai imwe Evhangeri, inopesana neyatinokuparidzirai isu, ngaave wakatukwa. 9 Sezvatakamboreva, zvino ndinoreva zve saizvozvo; Kana kunomunhu unokuparidzirai imwe Evhangeri, inopesana naiyo yamakagamuchira, ngaave wakatukwa. VAEFESO. 5:11-12 Regai kuyanana nerima asine zviberako, asi zvirinani kuti muraire; 12 nokuti izvo, zvinoita navo pakavanda zvinonyadza kana zvichirebwa. 2 VATESORONIKA, 2:9-12 Kuvuya kwake iye kwakaita sebasa raSatani nesimba rose rezviratidzo, nezvinoshamisa zvenhema, 10 nokunyengera kwose kwokusarurama kuna vanoparara; nokuti Havana kugamuchira rudo rwezvokwadi, kuti vaponeswe. 11 Saka Mwari unovatumira simba rokukanganisa, kuti vatende nhema, 12 kuti vose vasina kutenda zvokwadi, asi vakafanira zvisakarurama, vatongwe. 2 PETRO. 1:16-17 Nokuti hatina kutevera ngano dzokufungwa nenjere, nguva yatakakuzivisai simba nokuvuya kwaShe wedu Jesu Kristu, asi takanga tiri vanhu vakavona vumambo bwake. 17 Nokuti iye wakapiwa kukudzwa nokubwinya naMwari, Baba, panguva iya, yakavuya inzwi rakadai kwaari, richiti: Uyu ndiye Mwanakomana wangu unodikanwa, wandinofarira.

"And when they came to Marah, they could not drink of the waters of Marah, for they were bitter: therefore the name of it was called Marah. And the people murmured against Moses, saying, What shall we drink? And he cried unto the LORD; and the LORD shewed him a tree, which when he had cast into the waters, the waters were made sweet: there he made for them a statute and an ordinance, and there he proved them, And said, If thou wilt diligently hearken to the voice of the LORD thy God, and wilt do that which is right in his sight, and wilt give ear to his commandments, and keep all his statutes, I will put none of these diseases upon thee, which I have brought upon the Egyptians: for I am the LORD that healeth thee."Exodus 15:23-26

Murmuring or complaining is one of those sins that are overlooked. Sometimes we get so focused on the "big sins" such as murder and adultery that we overlook this sin -- but the Lord doesn't give this sin a free pass -- quite the opposite. It's a hidden killer! This sin unleashed a plague that killed thousands of Israelites! [Numbers 16] In this passage, we read how the Israelites, who were desperately thirsty, looked only at the fact that the water they had come to was bitter and undrinkable. How quickly they forgot their God who had led them out of Egypt with signs and wonders. They had just witnessed His dividing of the Red Sea and destruction of those who had enslaved them. And yet, so quickly they returned to looking only with their natural eyes at the problem in front of them, completely forgetting the miracle working power of their God! And so they murmured against Moses. But honestly, weren't they really murmuring against God? Once again, Moses interceded for them, revealing the faithfulness of His God to answer every impossible dilemma and provide for every need; and again, setting them the example: they simply needed to go the Lord! So often, just like the Israelites, we focus on our desperate situation with our physical eyes, and not with eyes of faith, and then fall into the trap of complaining. And if you're like me, once I start, it can be really hard to stop...until the Lord stops me, right in my tracks, and He reminds me –- aren't you really complaining against me? I have to remember to see that I actually hinder the Lord's answers to my problems by unbelief...which leads to the sin of murmuring! Brothers & Sisters, let's not allow this sin to gain a foothold -- because it can easily become a stronghold! The same wonder working God that led the children of Israel out of Egypt, is still at work today -- but are we hindering Him? If we are grumbling and complaining, the answer is, "YES"! And in so doing, until we stop, we are missing out on His answers and blessings which are waiting in the wings to meet our faith in Him! BEWARE OF THE SILENT KILLER!

VAPROFITA VENHEMA

DHUTERONOMI. 13:1-5 Zvino kana muprofita kana muroti akamuka pakati pako, akakuratidza chiratidzo kana chinoshamisa, 2 icho chiratidzo kana chinoshamisa chikaitika, chaakataura kwauri, achiti, ‘Ngatitevere vamwe vamwari, vawakanga usingazivi, tivashumire,’ 3 usateerera mashoko omuporofita uyo kana muroti uyo, nokuti Jehovha Mwari wenyu unokuidzai, kuti azive kana muchida Jehovha Mwari wenyu nomoyo wenyu wose uye nomweya wenyu wose. 4 Munofanira kutevera Johovha Mwari wenyu nokumutya, nokuchengeta mirairo yake, nokuteerera inzwi rake, nokumushumira, nokumunamatira. 5 Asi muporofita uyo kana muroti uyo vanofanira kuurawa; nokuti wakataura mashoko anomukira Jehovha Mwari wenyu, iye wakakubudisai panyika yeIjipiti, nokukudzikunurai muimba youranda, akakutsausa panzira yawakarairwa naJohovha Mwari wako, kuti ufambemo. Naizvozvo unofanira kubvisa zvakaipa pakati pako. DHUTORONOMI. 18:20-22 Asi muporofita unotaura shoko muzita rangu achizvikudza, riri shoko randisina kumuraira kuti aritaure, kana zvimwe unotaura muzita ravamwe vamwari, muporofita uyo anofanira kufa. 21 Zvino kana iwe ukati mumoyo mako, ‘Ko tichaziva Seiko shoko risina kutaurwa naJehovha?’ 22 Kana muporofita aching ataura muzita raJehovha, chinhu icho chikasaitika, chikasavapo, ndicho chinhu chisina kutaurwa naJehovha; muporofita wakaritaura achizvikudza, haufaniri kumutya. MATEO. 7:15-20 Chenjerai vaporofita venhema. Vachavuya kwamuri vanenguvo dzamakwai asi mukati mapere anoparadza. 16 Muchavaziva nezvibereko zvavo. Mazambiringa anombotanhwa paminzwa here, kana mavonde parukato? 17 Saizvozvo muti mumwe nomumwe wakanaka unobereka zvibereko zvakanaka asi muti wakaipa unobereka zvibereko zvakaipa. 18 Muti wkanaka haungabereki zvibereko zvakaipa nomuti wakaipa haangabereki zvibereko zvakanaka. 19 Muti mumwe nomumwe usingabereki zvibereko zvakanaka, unotemwa ukakandirwa mumoto. 20 Saka muuchavaziva nezvibereko zvavo. METEO. 24:11 Vaporofita vazhinji venhema vachamuka vachitsausa vazhinhi. MATEO. 24:24 Nokuti vachamuka vanaKristu venhema navaporofita venhema vachiratidza zviratidzo zvikuru nezvinoshamisa kuti kana zvichibvira vatsause navasanagurwavo. RUKA. 6:26 Munenhamo imwi kana vanhu vose vachitaura zvakanaka pamusoro penyu, nokuti madzibaba avo akaitira vaporofita venhema zvakadaro. RUKA. 21:8-9 Akati: Chenjerai, kuti murge kutsauswa; nokuti vazhinji vachavuya nezita rangu, vachiti: Ndini Kristu; nguva yaswedra Musavatevera. 9 Kana muchinzwa zvokurwa, nenyonganiso, musavhunduka henyu, nokuti izvozvi zvinofanira kumboitwa; asi kuguma hakusviki pakarepo. MABASA AVAPOSTORI. 13:6-12 Vakati vagura chiwi chose kusvikira paPafosi, vakawana imwe n’anga, waiva muporofita wenhema, muJudha, zita rake rainzi Bari-Jesu. 7 Waigara pamubati wenyika, wainzi Sergio Pauro, munhu wakachenjera. Iye ndokudana Bhanabhasi naSauro, achitsvaka kunzwa shoko raMwari. 8 Asi n’anga iyo Erimasi (nokuti ndiro zita rake, kana richishandurwa), akavadzivisa, achitsausa mubati pakutenda. 9 Asi Sauro (ndiye Pauri vo), azere noMweya Mutsvene, akamutarisisa, akati: 10 Iwe, uzere nokunyengera kwose namano akaipa ose, mwanakomana waDhiabhorosi, muvengi wokururama kwose, hauregi here kutsausa nzira dzakarurama dzaShe? 11 Zvino, tarira, ruvoko rwaShe ruri pamusoro pako; uchava bofu, uchaita nguva usingavoni zuva. Pakarepo mhute nerima zvikamuwira; akapota-pota, achitsvaka vangamusesedza noruvoko. 12 Zvino mubati wakati achivona zvaitika, akatenda akashamiswa nedzidziso yaShe. VAKOROSE. 2:16-23 Naizvozvo munhu ngaarege kuvapo unokutongai pazvokudya, kana zvokunwa, kana nokuda kwomusi womutambo, kana pakugara kwomwedzi, kana pasabata; 17 izvi mumvuri wezvichavuya; asi muviri ndowaKristu. 18 Munhu ngaarege kuvapo unokutorerai mubairo wenyu namavune, nokuzvininipisa nokunamata vatumwa, achivimba nezvaakavona, achizvikudza pasina nokufunga kwenyama. 19 asingabatisisi Musoro, uyo maari muviri wose unosanganiswa nokusunganidzwa nezvisungo namarunda, ndokukura nokukurisa kwaMwari. 20 Zino kana makafa pamwe chete naKristu kunezvokuvamba zvenyika, munozviisireiko pasi pemirairo, somugere munyika, 21 mirairo inoti: Usabata, usaravira, usagunzva, 22 (izvi zvose zvinofanira kuparadzwa kana zvobatwa nazvo); muchitevera mirairo nedzidziso dzavanhu? 23 Zvinhu zvakadai zvakaita sezvinovuchenjeri, pakunamata Mwari nokuda kwavo, nokuzvininipisa, nokutambudzika muviri; asi hazvinesimba rokukunda kuchiva kwenyama. 2 PETRO. 2:1-3 Asi kwakanga kunavaporofita venhema pakati pavanhu, sezvavachavapo pakati penyu vo vadzidzisi venhema, vachapinza pakavanda dzidziso dzakatsauka dzinoparadza, vachiramba naiye Tenzi wakavatenda, vachizviwisira kuparadzwa kunokurumidza. 2 Vazhinji vachatevera vutere bwavo; nokuda kwavo nzira yezvokwadi ichazvidzwa. 3 Pakukarira kwavo mari vachakunyengerai namashoko amano-mano; kutongwa kwavo, kwakatarwa kare, hakunonoki, nokuparadzwa kwavo kakukotsiri. 1 JOHANI. 4:1 Vadikanwa, musatenda mweya yose, asi muidze mweya, kuti muvone kana yakabva kunaMwari, nokuti vaporofita vazhinji venhema vakabudira munyika. JUDHA. 1:4 Nokuti kuna vamwe varume vakapinda pakavanda, vakagara vaisirwa kare kutongwa uku, vanhu vasingadi Mwari vanoshandura nyasha dzaMwari wedu vachidziita vitere, vachiramba tenzi uyu mumwe chete, Ishe wedu Jesu Kristu.

“You shall say to them: ‘The LORD bless you, and keep you; the LORD make His face shine on you, and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up His countenance on you, and give you peace.’ So they shall invoke My name on the sons of Israel, and I then will bless them.”Numbers 6:23-27

As the first high priest of Israel, Aaron had special responsibility: To pray for God’s people. In fact, this prayer was so important to God that He gave Aaron the specific words He wanted him to speak. First, Aaron was to pray that God would bless and keep them in every situation. No matter what problems they faced, God wanted them to know He was with them and that He wanted to bless them. They did not need to be discouraged, for His face would shine upon them, and He would turn His face toward them. This was a promise of direction and guidance—assuring them that He knew every situation and understood the road ahead. And if they had needs, He wanted them to know He would be “gracious” to them. The Hebrew word here demonstrates how much God wanted to bless them and be merciful to them. This was as if He was pleading with them to believe Him and realize how much He wanted to help them. God wanted Aaron and his sons to pray this prayer so they would “invoke” His name on Israel. By speaking this prayer, the Lord’s name would be placed on His people. Then He would “bless them.” This prayer expresses God’s desire for you today. No matter what you face, you do not have to be discouraged or afraid, worried or anxious. Brothers & Sisters may these words help you realize just how much God wants to bless and keep you…that His face is shining on you…and that He wants to give you His peace.

"Confirming the souls of the disciples, and exhorting them to continue in the faith, and that we must through much tribulation enter into the kingdom of God."Acts 14:22

I am impressed by the Lord to address the anxieties many are feeling about the future-- how to be strong in the face of the intense opposition we’ll be facing as believers. One of the founders of the modern state of Israel, David Ben-Gurion once said, “Courage is a special kind of knowledge, the knowledge of how to fear what ought to be feared and how not to fear what ought not to be feared. From this knowledge comes an inner strength that inspires us to push on in the face of great difficulty. What can seem impossible is often possible with courage.” While Ben Gurion's words carry a certain worldly wisdom to inspire courage, we also can have courage which comes from a special kind of knowledge...the knowledge that we have a God who loves and supports and protects us and carries us through, even the most trying times and circumstances. So let’s not become fearful in these days – but instead become bold as a lion, to accomplish the good works He prepared for us from the foundation of the world! Brothers & Sisters, let's walk with courage in these days in the knowledge that our God is with us, and with Him we will accomplish great things that seem impossible, because we know that He turns impossibilities into realities! FIND COURAGE IN THE FACE OF OPPOSITION!

“A wide door for effective service has opened to me, and there are many adversaries.”1 Corinthians 16:9

For many Believers in Africa, one of the biggest challenges is confronting the influence of Islam. This religion has deep roots among many Africans, enforced with a life-and-death intensity. It can be risky for Muslims just to talk with Christians. A Christian Believer , on the southeast coast of Africa, found that God opened doors for ministry when he moved into a home where all the neighbors were Muslims. As he walked around the neighborhood, God slowly started opening doors, giving him opportunities to share his faith. Risking his life, one Muslim began asking about Christianity. After investigating the differences between the Quran and the Bible, the man decided to become a Christian. When they heard this news, his family was furious and tried to change his mind. When this failed, they beat him until he nearly died. As he lay unconscious on the ground, neighbors urged the family to take him to the hospital. But the man’s brother would not permit any interference, saying, “If he dies, it is his own fault.” Yet eventually he was taken to a hospital and recovered. Others have not been so fortunate. Many Christians live in relative comfort, never facing these kinds of dangers. But the story of this Muslim convert reminds us that the goal of our enemy is total destruction. To ruin our lives. To prevent people from experiencing freedom in Christ and the blessings of God. He can appear harmless, even as an “angel of light” (2 Corinthians 11:14). But he is like a “roaring lion,” constantly looking for victims to “devour” (1 Peter 5:8). Brothers & Sisters in your life, make sure you are spiritually strong, equipped to fight this spiritual battle (Ephesians 6:10-13). Don’t be afraid, but make sure that you are “sober” and “on the alert.” And pray for open doors to share the Gospel.

"Then the scribes and Pharisees brought to Him a woman caught in adultery. And when they had set her in the midst, they said to Him, "Teacher, this woman was caught in adultery, in the very act. Now Moses, in the law, commanded us that such should be stoned. But what do You say?" 10 When Jesus had raised Himself up and saw no one but the woman, He said to her, "Woman, where are those accusers of yours? Has no one condemned you?" She said, "No one, Lord." And Jesus said to her, "Neither do I condemn you; go and sin no more."John 8:3-5, 10-11

Jesus knew the heart of every man and woman. As a totally pure and righteous human being, His experience of every other sin-filled person is really impossible for us to imagine. He knew that every repulsive thought, attitude and action of every person in the world would soon fall on Him, and that He would carry them...away. And so Jesus did not come with a spirit of condemnation -- but with a spirit of grace and truth. Caught in the very act of adultery, and brought into His presence, the woman's sin was immediately exposed and her conviction was absolute. The sin was condemned.... but not the sinner. Her accusers wanted to stone her, to sacrifice her life, and use the law of Moses to condemn Jesus, out of their jealous hatred of Him. But the Lord, in His beautiful, understated way, quietly wrote in the sand, and then turned their hatred into deep conviction. The whole world is convicted in Jesus' presence. But only the ones who really appreciate His grace are filled with amazement and gratitude. Can you imagine how this woman must have felt? Her mind had been filled with voices of accusation, rejection, and condemnation. Jesus didn't feed the frenzy, but calmly observed, "He that is without sin, let him cast the first stone." When no one did, the Lord freed the convicted sinner and restored her life, saying, "Go and sin no more." Brothers & Sisters, voices of accusation, rejection and condemnation will rise against you in the presence of your sins -- but Jesus will write in the sand and expose the hearts of your accusers. Confess your sin, and stand amazed and grateful, for His grace. WHERE ARE YOUR ACCUSERS?

MUCHINJIKWA

MATEO. 10:38 Usingatori muchinjikwa wake akanditevera haana kufanireni. MATEO. 16:24 Zvino Jesu akati kuvadzidzi vake, kana munhu achida kuvuya shure kwangu ngaazvirambe asimudze muchinjikwa wake anditevere. MAKO. 8:34 Zvino wakadanira kwaari vanhu vazhinji navadzidzi vake, akati kwavari; kana munhu achida kuvuya shure kwangu, ngaazvirambe, asimudze muchinjikwa wake, anditevere. RUKA. 9:23 Zvino wakati kuna vose; Kana munhu achida kutevera shure kwangu, ngaazvirambe, asimudze muchinjikwa wake zuva rimwe nerimwe, anditevere. RUKA. 14:27 Aninani usingatakuri muchinjikwa wake, akavuya shure kwangu, haangavi mudzidzi wangu. 1 VAKORINDE 1:17-18 Nokuti Kristu haana kundituma kubhabhatidza, asi kuti ndiparidze Evahangeri; ndisingaiti nenjere dzamashoko, kuti muchinjikwa waKristu urege kukoneswa. 18 Nokuti shoko romuchinjikwa vupenzi kunavanoparadzwa; asi kwatiri, isu tinoponeswa, isimba raMwari. 1 VAKORINDE. 1:21-25 Nokuti pashure muvuchenjeri bwaMwari, nyika novuchenjeri bwayo haina kuziva Mwari, nokuti zvakafadza Mwari novupenzi bwokuparidza kuponesa vanotenda. 22 Nokuti vaJudha vanokumbira chiratidzo, navaGirikki vanotsvaka vuchenjeri; 23 asi isu tinoparidza Kristu, wakaroverwa pamuchinjikwa, chigumbuso kuvaJudha, novupenzi kuvahedheni; 24 asi kunavakadanwa, vaJudha navaGiriki Kristu isimba raMwari novuchenjeri hwaMwari. 25 Nokuti vupenzi bwaMwari bwakachenjera kupfuvura vanhu; novutera bwaMwari bwakasimba kupfuvura vanhu. VAGARATIA. 2:20 Ndakaroverwa pamuchinjikwa pamwe chete naKristu; handichiri ini ndinorarama, asi Kristu unorarama mandiri; kurarama uku, kwandinorarama nako munyama zvino, ndinorarama nokutenda kuri muMwanakomana waMwari; wakandida akazvipa nokuda kwangu. VAGARATIA. 6:14 Asi kana ndirini, ngandirege kutongozvirumbidza napaduku asi badzi mumuchinjikwa waShe wedu, Jesu Kristu, naye nyika yakaroverwa pamuchinjikwa kwandiri, neni ndakaroverwa kunyika. VAEFESO. 2:14-16 Nokuti ndiye Rugare rwedu, iye wakaita zvinhu zviviri kuti chive chinhu chimwe, akaputsa rusvingo rwapakati rwokuparadzanisa; 15 zvaakaparadza munyama yake kuvengana, iwo murairo wezvakarairwa pazvirevo; kuti asike ava vaviri vave munhu mutsva maari, aite Rugare saizvozvo; 16 kuti mumuchinjikwa ayananise zve vose vaviri, vave muviri mumwe kunaMwari, zvaakavuraya kuvengana naiwo muchinjikwa. VAFIRIPI. 2:8 Akati awanikwa anomufananidzo womunhu, akazvininipisa, akaterera kusvikira parufu, irwo rufu rwomuchinjikwa. VAFIRIPI. 3:18 Nokuti vazhinji, vandakakuvudzai kazhinji, nazvino ndinokuvudzai vo nokuchema, vanofamba vari vavengi vomuchinjikwa waKristu. VAKOROSE. 1:20 Kuti naye ayananise zvinhu zvose kwaari, ambita Rugare neropa romuchinjikwa wake; niye kunyange zviri panyika, kunyange zviri kudenga. VAKOROSE. 2:14 Akadzima rungwaro rwkanga ruchirwa nesu pazvirevo zvarwo, ruchipesana nesu; akarubvisa irwo pakati pedu, akarurovera pamuchinjikwa. VAHEBHERU. 19:10-14 Nokuda ikoku takaitwa vatsvene nechibayiro chomuviri waJesu Kristu, chakabayirwa kamwe. 11 MuPrisita mumwe nomumwe unomira zuva rimwe nerimwe achishumira, nokubayira kazhinji zvibayiro izvozvo zvisingagoni kubvisa zvivi; 12 asi murume uyu wakati abayira chibayiro kamwe chete pamusoro pezvivi, akagara nokusingaperi kurudyi rwaMwari; 13 kubva zvino achimirira kusvikira vavengi vake vaitwa chitsiko chetsoka dzake. 14 Nokuti nechibayiro chimwe chete wakakwanisa nokusingaperi avo vanoitwa vatsvene. VAHEBHERU. 12:2 Tichitarira kunaJesu, muvambi nomukwanisi wokutenda kwedu, iye wakatsunga pamuchinjikwa nokuda kwomufaro wakaiswa pamberi pake, akaiswa pamberi pake, akashovora kunyadziswa kwawo, akandogara kurudyi rwechigaro chovushe chaMwari.

“How blessed is everyone who fears the LORD, who walks in His ways.”Psalm 128:1

Some may think that “fearing” the Lord is an archaic concept, not appropriate for sophisticated, modern men and women. But this is a timeless truth. In fact, fearing the Lord is central to a life of blessing. In practical terms, what does it mean to “fear the Lord”? It means that we revere Him and worship Him as God Almighty. We realize that He is our Creator: “For all the gods of the peoples are idols, but the Lord made the heavens” (Psalm 96:5). Fearing the Lord also means realizing that He is perfect and holy—the “righteous Judge” (2 Timothy 4:8). It means not taking Him for granted but being serious about our relationship with Him. When we truly fear the Lord, we will focus our attention on Him. We will dedicate ourselves to knowing and obeying His Word. We will submit everything to Him, seeking first His Kingdom and making it our highest aim to please Him. However, this fear should be more than a command. It should be our desire. For the fear of the Lord leads directly to His blessing. When we commit our lives to God, He promises to pour out blessings and provide everything we need. As we seek His wisdom, He will guide and protect us. This is foundational for a Believer: “Fear of the LORD is the foundation of true wisdom. All who obey his commandments will grow in wisdom” (Psalm 111:10). God also promises to make us fruitful and give us productivity in everything we do. He will reward us with joy and happiness, enabling us to be content and satisfied instead of restless or troubled. We also will see blessings flow out from us, into the work we do and into the lives of those around us. Brothers & Sisters do you want God’s blessings? Then make sure that you fear Him. Don’t take Him for granted, but make Him the center of your life. Be serious about His Word, and seek first His Kingdom.

VANA VAMWARI

MATEO. 5:9 Vakaropafadzwa vanoyananisa nokuti vachanzi vana vaMwari. JOHANI. 1:12 Asi vose vakamugamuchira, wakavapa simba kuti vave vana vaMwari, ivavo vanotenda kuzita rake. VAROMA. 8:14 Nokuti vose vanotungamirirwa noMweya waMwari, ndivo vana vaMwari. VAROMA. 8:15-17 Nokuti hamuna kupiwa mweya wovuranda kuti mutye zve, asi makapiwa mweya wokuitwa vana, watinodana nawo, tichiti: Aba, baba; 16 Mweya amene unopupurirana nomweya wedu, kuti tiri vana vaMwari; 17 zvino kana tiri vana, tiri adyi venhaka; vadyi venhaka yaMwari, vadyi venhaka pamwe chete naKristu; kana tichitambudzika pamwe chete naye, tichakudzwa vo pamwe chete naye. VAGARATIA. 3:26 Nokuti imi mose muri vana vaMwari nokutenda munaKristu Jesu. VAGARATIA. 4:5-6 Kuti adzikinure vari pasi pomurairo, kuti tipiwe vumwana bwedu. 6 Zvino zvamuri vanakomana, Mwari wakatuma Mweya woMwanakomana wake mumoyo menyu, unodana achiti; Aba, Baba! VAEFESO. 1:5-6 Akatitemera kare, kuti naJesu Kristu tiitwe vanakomana vake, sezvaakafadzwa pakuda kwake, 6 kuti kunaka kukuru kwenyasha dzake dzaakangotipa hake muMudikanwa wake, kurumbidzwe. 1 JOHANI. 3:1 Tarirai kukura kworudo rwatakaitirwa naBaba, kuti tinzi vanakomana vaMwari; ndizvo zvatiri vo; saka nyika haitizivi, nokuti haina kumuziva iye. 1 JOHANI. 3:2-3 Vakadikanwa, zvino tiri vana vaMwari, vuye zvichigere kuratidzwa kuti tichazovei. Tinonzwa kuti kana achizovoneswa, isu tichafanana naye; nokuti tichamuvona sezvaakaita. 3 Mumwe nomumwe unetariro iyi kwaari, unozvichenesa sezvaakachena iye. 1 JOHANI. 3:10 Vana vaMwari vanovoneswa naizvozvi, navana vaDhiabhorosi; mumwe nomumwe usingaiti zvakarurama, haazi waMwari, naiye vo usingadi hama yake.

MUVIRI WAKRISTU

MATEO. 16:18 Neni ndinoti kwauri ndiwe Petro, pamusoro poruware urwu ndichavaka kereke yangu, masiwo eHadhesi haandaikundi. MATEO 18. 19-20 Ndinoti kwamuri zve: Kana vaviri venyu vakatenderana panyika pamusoro pechimwe chinhu chavanokumbira, vachachiitirwa naBaba vangu vari kudenga. 20 Nokuti apo pakavungana vaviri kana vatatu muzita rangu, ndiripo pakati pavo. MAKO. 3:24-25 Kana vushe bwuchipesanisa, vushe uhwo habwungagoni kumira. 25 Kana imba ichizvipesanisa, imba iyo haingagoni kumira. VAROMA. 12:4-8 Nokuti sezvatinemitezo mizhinji pamuviri mumwe, asi mitezo yose hainebasa rimwe chete; 5 saizvozvo isu, tiri vazhinji, tiri muviri mumwe chete munaKristu, mumwe nomumwe ari mutezo wavamwe. 6 Tinezvipo zvakasiyana, patakapiwa nyasha napo; kana kuri kupororfita, ngatiprofite zvakaenzana nokutenda kwedu; 7 kana kuri kushumira ngazvivonekwe pakushumira kwedu; kana kuri kudzidzisa, pakudzidzisa kwedu; 8 kana kuri kuraira, pakuraira kwedu; unopa, ngaape nomoyo wose; uri mukuru, ngaabate nokushingaira; unoitira ngoni, ngaaite nomufaro. 1 VAKORINDE. 1:10 Zvino ndinokumbira zvikuru kwamuri, hama dzangu, nezita raShe wedu; Jesu Kristu, kuti imi mose mutaure chinhu chimwe, kuti pakati penyu kurege kuva nokupesana; asi kuti musonganiswe zvakanaka nokufunga kumwe. 1 VAKORINDE. 12:11-31 Asi izvi zvose zvinoitwa noMweya iwoyu mumwe chete, unogovera mumwe nomumwe sezvaanoda. 12 Nokuti somuviri uri mumwe, unemitezo mizhinji, nemitezo yose yomuviri, kunyange iri mizhinji, muviri ndomumwe chete; wakadaro vo Kristu. 13 Nokuti muMweya mumwe isu tose takabhabhatidzwa mumuviri mumwe; kana tiri vaJudha, kana vaGiriki, kana varanda, kana vakasununguka; isu tose takanwiswa paMweya mumwe. 14 Nokuti muviri hauzi mutezo mumwe, asi mizhinji. 15 Kana rutsoka rukati; zvandisati ndiri ruvoko, handizi womuviri; ko haruzi rwomuviri, zvarwakadaro here? 16 Nenzeve kana ikati: Zvandisati ndiri ziso; handizi womuviri; ko haizi yomuviri here? 17 Kana muviri wose raiva ziso, kunzwa kwaivepiko? Kana wose kwaiva kunzwa, kunhuwidza kwaivepiko? 18 Asi zvino Mwari wakaisa mutezo mumwe nomumwe pamuviri sezvaakada. 19 Kana yose waiva mutezo mumwe, muviri waive piko? 20 Asi zvino kune mitezo mizhinji asi muviri mumwe. 21 Ziso haringati kuruvoko; Handikudi; kana musoro vo kutsoka; handikudiyi imi. 22 Kwete, zvikuru mitezo iyo yomuviri inenge isinesimba ndiyo inodikanwa; 23 nemitezo iyo yomuviri yatinoti haikudzwi, ndiyo yatinokudza kwazvo: nemitezo iyo yedu isina kunaka, ndiyo yova nokunaka kunopfuvurisa; 24 asi mitezo yedu yakanaka, haishaiwi kukudzwa. Asi Mwari wakabatanidza muviri wose, akakudza anokupfuvurisa mitezo inoshaiwa kunaka: 25 kuti pamuviri parege kuva nokupesana; asi mutezo ichengetane zvakaenzana. 26 Kana mutezo mumwe uchitambudzika, mitezo yose inotambudzika pamwe chete nawo; kana mutezo mumwe chikudzwa, mitezo yose inofara pamwe chete nawo. 27 Zvino imi muviri waKristu, nomumwe, nomumwe mitezo yaiwo. Mwari wakaisa vamwe pakereke, pakutanga vaapostora rwechipiri vaporofita, rwechitatu vadzidzisi, tevere vaiti vamabasa esimba, tevere zvipo zvokuporesa, navabatsiri navabati, namarudzi mazhinji endimi. 29 Vose vaapostora here? Vose vaprofita here? Vose vadzidzisi here? Vose vaiti vamabasa esimba here? 30 Vose vanezvipo zvokuporesa here? Vose vanotaura nendimi here? Vose vanodudzira here? VAEFESO. 1:22-23 Akaisa zvose pasi petsoka dzake, akapa kereke iye, kuti ave musoro wazvose. 23 ndiwo muviri wake kuzara kwaiye unozadzisa zvose munavose. VAEFESO. 4:1-7 Naizvozvo ini musungwa munaShe, ndinokumbira zvikuru kuti mufambe zvakafanira kudanwa kwamakadanwa nako. 2 nokuzvininipisa kwose novunyoro, nomoyo murefu, muchiitirana moyo murefu murudo; 3 muchishingaira kuchengeta vumwe bwoMweya muchisungo chorugare. 4 Kuno muviri mumwe, noMweya mumwe, sezvamakadanwa vo mutariro imwe yokudanwa kwenyu; 5 Ishe mumwe, nokutenda kumwe, nerubhabhatidzo rumwe, 6 naMwari mumwe, naBaba vavose, uri pamusoro pavose, unobata navose, uri mukati menyu mose. 7 Asi mumwe nomumwe wedu wakapiwa nyasha nechiyero chechipo chaKristu. VAEFESO. 5:25-27 Imi varume, idai vakadzi venyu, Kristu sezvaakadavo kereke, akazvipa nokuda ayo; 26 kuti aiite tsvene achiinatsa nokushambidza kwemvura pashoko, 27 kuti azviisire pamberi pake kereke, inobwinya, isinengwapa. VAKOROSI. 1:24 Zvino ndinofara pakutambudzika kwangu nokuda kwenyu, ndichizadzisa panyama yangu zvakasara pamadambudziko aKristu, nokuda kwomuviri wake, iyo kereke.

“Blessed is the man who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting at the posts of my doors. For whoever finds me finds life, and obtains favor from the LORD; but he who sins against me wrongs his own soul; all those who hate me love death.”Proverbs 8:34-36

Watching. Seeking. Listening. These active words characterize people who aren’t content with the ordinary or “good enough.” Instead, they have a serious desire to receive God’s best. Instead of just knowing about God’s blessings, they want to receive them in their lives, and receive them abundantly. They know that the world is full of options. There are many paths and choices. But these people know that God offers a different level of blessings. He alone is able to provide rewards that cannot be imitated. And these blessings are the direct reward of seeking and obtaining His wisdom. God’s wisdom is different from what the world considers “wise.” The Bible promises that there is a lifestyle that leads to blessing—a lifestyle founded on God’s wisdom. Although this wisdom is available to everyone, it requires initiative rather than passivity. We must actively seek this wisdom. Yet, although this may require persistent effort, great rewards await those who pursue God’s wisdom. Today, remember that the Lord’s blessings are available to you! If you have any doubts, just read His Word. And remember all of His promises are true, right now, for you! The Bible pictures wisdom as waiting for you—ready to open up a lifestyle of incredible blessings. But don’t forget: You need to listen for wisdom and seek it. If you do, God promises stability and blessing. You will find an abundant life, full of His supernatural favor. Make a commitment to know His Word. This is not just good advice but a vital key to receiving His blessings. Brothers & Sisters put His Word into practice. Stay close to Him. Be eager for greater intimacy with Him. A wonderful life awaits you as you seek His wisdom and trust Him to open the door to greater blessings for you.

“Oh, the joys of those who do not follow the advice of the wicked, or stand around with sinners, or join in with mockers. But they delight in the law of the Lord, meditating on it day and night. They are like trees planted along the riverbank, bearing fruit each season. Their leaves never wither, and they prosper in all they do.”Psalm 1:1-3

Think about this truth: God has prepared unimaginable joys for us! In fact, He wants to bless us in every part of our lives. He wants us to “prosper and be in health” (3 John 1:2), to be victorious, and “more than conquerors” (Romans 8:37). The Bible is filled with descriptions of God’s blessings and with His instructions for how we can receive them. And there is no clearer path to blessings than putting into practice the insights found in the first Psalm. The key here is being filled with God’s Word. This includes both knowing His Word and putting it into practice. This pattern leads to a life that is fruitful and productive. The psalmist describes how blessings will flow into our lives, with every need supplied in abundance. A life based on God’s Word enables us to be stable and strong. The Bible pictures us as being “like trees planted along the riverbank.” We don’t need to rush or worry, for His nourishment by this constant stream provides everything we need. We can rest, be confident, and experience God’s peace, knowing that we will “prosper” in everything we do. But this passage also warns that these blessings can be blocked. How? If we join with mockers, listen to sinners, or “follow the advice of the wicked.” The ungodly are not stable but are like “the chaff which the wind drives away.” They aren’t able to “stand in the judgment.” Brothers & Sisters today, prepare yourself for God’s blessings. Make sure you are rooted and grounded in the Lord, trusting in Him and delighting in His Word. This will help you steer clear of the path of sinners, enabling you to receive God’s amazing blessings.

KUTARIDZIKA KUVA MUTSVENE

MAPISAREMA. 51:16-17 Nokuti imi hamufariri zvibyiro; ndingadai ndaikupai izvo; hamufadzwi nechipiriso chinopiswa. 17 Zvibayiro zvaMwari mweya wakaputsika; moyo wakaputsika nowakapwanyika, imi Mwari hamungashorwi. ISAYA. 64:6 Nokuti isu tose soune tsvina, kururama kwedu kwose kwafanana nenguvo ine tsvina, isu tose tinooma seshizha, zvakaipa zvedu zvinotibvisa semhepo. MATEO. 5:20 Nokuti ndinoti kwamuri, kana kururama kwenyu kusingapfuvuri kururuma kwavanyori nokwavaFarise, hamungatongopindi muvushe hwokudenga. MATEO. 7:22-23 Vazhizji vachati kwandiri nezuva iro, Ishe, Ishe hatina kuporofita muzita renyu here? Nokudzinga mweya yakaipa muzita renyu here? Nokuita mabasa esimba mazhinji muzita renyu here? 23 Zvino ndichavavudza pachena handina kutongokuzivai, ibvai kwandiri imi vaiti vokusarurama. MATEO. 9:12-13 Jesu achizvinzwa akati, vasingarwari havatsvaki murapi asi vanorwara. 13 Asi endai mudzidze kuti, zvinorevei kuti ndinoda ngoni handidi chibayiro, nokuti handina kuvuya kuzodana vakarurama asi vatadzi kuti vatendevuke. MATEO. 23:25-28 Munenhamo, imi vanyori navaFarise, vanyengeri! Nokuti munonatsa kunze kwomukombe nendiro, asi mukati muzere nokukara nokusazvidzora. 25 Iwe muFarise wakapofumara, tanga kunatsa mukati momukombe, nendiro, kuti kunze kwazvo kugochenavo. 27 Munenhamo, imi vanyori navaFarise, vanyengeri! Nokuti makafanana namarinda akacheneswa, anovonekwa saakanaka kunze kwawo, asi mukati muzere namapfupa avakafa netsvina yose. 28 Saizvozvo nemi vo munovonekwa navanhu kunze kwenyu makaita semakarurama, asi mukati muzere nokunyengera nokuipa. MAKO. 10:18 Jesu akati: Unondiidzireiko wakanaka? Hakuna wakanaka, asi mumwe chete, iye Mwari. RUKA. 18:10-14 Vanhu vaviri vakakwira kutembere kundonyengetera, mumwe ari muFarise, mumwe ari muteresi. 11 MuFarise akandomira, akanyengetera kudai, achizvireva, akati: Ndinokutendai Mwari, kuti handina kufanana navamwe vanhu, makororo, vasakarurama, mhombwe, kana nomuteresi uyo. 12 Ndinozvinyima zvokudya kaviri nevhiki, ndinopachegumi chezvose zvandinowana. 13 Asi muteresi wakamira kure, asingadi kunyange nokutarira kudenga, akazvirova chifuva, akati: Mwari, ndinzwirei tsitsi, ini mutadzi! 14 Ndinoti kwamuri: Uyu wakaburukira kumba kwake aruramiswa kupfuvura uya. Nokuti mumwe nomumwe unozvikudza, uchaninipiswa vuye mumwe nemumwe unozvininipisa uchakudzwa. VAROMA. 3:10-18 Sezvakanyorwa, zvichinzi: Hakuna wakarurama kunyange nomumwe. 11 Hakuna unonzwisisa. Hakuna unotsvaka Mwari; 12Vakatsauka vose, vakava vanhu vasinamaturo, Hakuna unoita zvakanaka, kunyange nomumwe chete; 13 Huro dzavo bwiro bwakashama; Vakanyengera nendimi dzavo; Vuturu bwenyoka bwuri mumiromo yavo. 14 Muromo wavo uzere nokutuka nokuvava. 15 Tsoka dzavo dzinokurumidza kutevura ropa. 16 Kuparadza nenhamo zviri munzira dzavo, 17 Nenzira yorugare Havana kuiziva. 18 Kutya Mwari hakupo pamberi pavo. VAROMA. 7:15-25 Nokuti zvandinoita handizvizivi; nokuti zvandinoita hazvizi izvo zvandinoda; zvandinoda; handizvo zvandinoita; asi zvandinoverenga ndizvo zvandinoita. 16 Zvino kana ndichiita izvo zvandisingadi, ndinobvumira kuti murairo wakanaka. 17 Zvino handizati ndichiri ini ndinozviita, asi zvivi zvinogara mandiri. 18 Nokuti ndinoziva kuti mukati mangu, imo munyama yangu, hamugari chinhu chakanaka, nokuti kuda kuripo kwandiri, asi kuita zvakanaka hakupo. 19 Nokuti zvakanaka, zvandinoda, handizviiti, asi zvakaipa, zvandisingadi, ndizvo zvandinoita. 20 Zvino kana ndichiita zvandisingadi, handisini ndinozviita, asi zvivi zvinogara mandiri. 21 Naizvozvo ndinowana murairo uyu kana ndichida kuita zvakanaka, zvakaipa zviripo kwandiri. 22 Nokuti ndinotarira murairo waMwari nomunhu womukati, 23 asi ndinovona mumwe murairo pamitezo yangu, 24 Ndiri munhu uri pakutambudzika! Ndianiko uchandisunungura pamuviri worufu urwu? 25 Mwari ngaavongwe, naJesu Kristu, Ishe wedu. Naizvozvo nomurangariro ndinobatira Mwari, asi nenyama murairo wezvivi. VAROMA 10:1-4 Hama dzangu, kuda kwomoyo wangu nokukumbira kwangu kunaMwari pamusoro paIsraeri ndiko, kuti vaponeswe. 2 Nokuti ndinovapupurira kuti vanoshingairira Mwari, asi havaiti nokuziva. 3 Nokuti, zvavakanga vasingazivi kururama kwaMwari vakatsvaka kumisa kururama kwavo vamene, vakasazviisa pasi pokururama kwaMwari. 4 Nokuti Kristu ndimugumo womurairo pakutsvaka kururama, kuno mumwe nomumwe unotenda. 2 VAKORINDE 3:4-6 Kutenda kwakadai tinako naKristu, kunaMwari; 5 hatiti takakwana isu timene kuti titeme chinhu timene; asi kukwana kwedu kunobva kunaMwari; 6 iye wakati kwanisa kuti tive vashumiri vesungano itsva, isati iri yezvakanyorwa asi yoMweya; nokuti zvakanyorwa zvinovuraya, asi Mweya unopa upenyu.

“Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been proved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.”James 1:12

“Temptation is the devil looking through the keyhole.” For many Believers, though, the temptation itself can be a deflating experience. We can feel defeated, puzzled, or discouraged. Yet the Bible tells us that being tempted doesn’t mean we have failed. In fact, it may indicate that we’re on the path to God’s blessings. We all will face temptations. The question is how we’ll respond. Will we “open the door” and let the devil in? The Bible promises that if we overcome the temptations we face, we will receive the “crown of life.” This is a symbol of the victory we can experience. Those who endure are overcomers, crowned with peace, fulfillment, and joy. But to receive these blessings, we must be overcomers. This means recognizing when we are being tempted and then enduring the temptation. We must go through the temptation. We are to remain steadfast and firm. We must hold fast to our faith, staying calm and brave. This means resisting, enduring, and remaining faithful to God. Those who don’t endure temptation will never know the victory available to them. Brothers & Sisters today, remember that God wants to bless you. But you still will face many challenges, crossroads, temptations, and attacks from the enemy. Through it all, remember that God has prepared victory and a crown of life for you. As you persevere and stay faithful, you will receive His blessings. If you feel tempted, don’t give up. Remember God’s promises. Stand on His Word. Seek to endure, always trusting in Him.

“I will make you a great nation, and I will bless you, and make your name great; and so you shall be a blessing.”Genesis 12:2

What questions must have raced through Abraham’s mind! Interrupting his life, God had directed him to “go forth from your country, and from your relatives…to the land which I will show you” (v. 1). He would be moving in a new direction, not knowing what was ahead or what the future would hold. But God would describe the blessings that awaited him. He would become a great nation, and his name would be great. And his descendants would be more numerous than the stars (Genesis 15:5). Yet Abraham didn’t realize these promises wouldn’t be fulfilled for many years. It would be a journey of faith, filled with many unknowns. But God was faithful, and He fulfilled every promise to Abraham. At the end of his life, it could be said, “the Lord had blessed Abraham in all things” (Genesis 24:1). God also explained to Abraham why he was being blessed. It wasn’t to achieve fame or gain rewards, nor to become popular or powerful. Instead, Abraham was blessed so he could be a blessing. He was given wisdom so that he might share his wisdom with others. He learned how to walk with God so he could be our example as the “father of faith.” He was given material riches so he could share those riches with others. These same principles can be true in your life. Brothers & Sisters take a moment to think about the many ways God has blessed you. He has promised to meet your needs and reward your faithfulness. But He also wants you to remember that He has blessed you so that you can bless others. He wants you to share His wisdom and the resources He has given you. You’re called to encourage others, pray for the sick, and spread the Good News!