#6 Holy Wit – Bible Study
God Is Faithful to Exhausted People
(God Is Faithful to Flawed People – Elijah)
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Scripture Reading (NKJV):
- 1 Kings 18:36 And it came to pass, at the time of the offering of the evening sacrifice, that Elijah the prophet came near and said, “LORD God of Abraham, Isaac, and Israel, let it be known this day that You are God in Israel and I am Your servant, and that I have done all these things at Your word.
- 37 Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that You are the LORD God, and that You have turned their hearts back to You again.”
- 38 Then the fire of the LORD fell and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood and the stones and the dust, and it licked up the water that was in the trench.
- 39 Now when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces; and they said, “The LORD, He is God! The LORD, He is God!”
- 40 And Elijah said to them, “Seize the prophets of Baal! Do not let one of them escape!” So they seized them; and Elijah brought them down to the Brook Kishon and executed them there.
- 41 Then Elijah said to Ahab, “Go up, eat and drink; for there is the sound of abundance of rain.”
- 45 Now it happened in the meantime that the sky became black with clouds and wind, and there was a heavy rain. So Ahab rode away and went to Jezreel.
- 46 Then the hand of the LORD came upon Elijah; and he girded up his loins and ran ahead of Ahab to the entrance of Jezreel.
- 1 Kings 19:1 And Ahab told Jezebel all that Elijah had done, also how he had executed all the prophets with the sword.
- 2 Then Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, “So let the gods do to me, and more also, if I do not make your life as the life of one of them by tomorrow about this time.”
- 3 And when he saw that, he arose and ran for his life, and went to Beersheba, which belongs to Judah, and left his servant there.
- 4 But he himself went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a broom tree. And he prayed that he might die, and said, “It is enough! Now, LORD, take my life, for I am no better than my fathers!”
- 5 Then as he lay and slept under a broom tree, suddenly an angel touched him, and said to him, “Arise and eat.”
- 6 Then he looked, and there by his head was a cake baked on coals, and a jar of water. So he ate and drank, and lay down again.
- 7 And the angel of the LORD came back the second time, and touched him, and said, “Arise and eat, because the journey is too great for you.”
- 8 So he arose, and ate and drank; and he went in the strength of that food forty days and forty nights as far as Horeb, the mountain of God.
- 9 And there he went into a cave, and spent the night in that place; and behold, the word of the LORD came to him, and He said to him, “What are you doing here, Elijah?”
- 10 So he said, “I have been very zealous for the LORD God of hosts; for the children of Israel have forsaken Your covenant, torn down Your altars, and killed Your prophets with the sword. I alone am left; and they seek to take my life.”
- 11 Then He said, “Go out, and stand on the mountain before the LORD.” And behold, the LORD passed by, and a great and strong wind tore into the mountains and broke the rocks in pieces before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind; and after the wind an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake;
- 12 and after the earthquake a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire; and after the fire a still small voice.
- 13 So it was, when Elijah heard it, that he wrapped his face in his mantle and went out and stood in the entrance of the cave.
- 15 Then the LORD said to him: “Go, return on your way to the Wilderness of Damascus…
- 18 Yet I have reserved seven thousand in Israel, all whose knees have not bowed to Baal, and every mouth that has not kissed him.”

1 Kings 18:36–39 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+18%3A36-39&version=NKJV
1 Kings 19:1–18 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+19%3A1-18&version=NKJV
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1. Fire from Heaven Does Not Prevent Collapse
Elijah stands on Mount Carmel in chapter 18 as a towering figure of faith. He prays, and fire falls. Not symbolic fire. Not poetic fire. Fire that consumes stone, water, sacrifice—everything. The people fall on their faces. Revival breaks out in a moment.
And then chapter 19 happens.
One threat. One message from Jezebel. And Elijah runs.
This is one of Scripture’s most honest moments. Great victory does not guarantee emotional stability. Spiritual triumph does not eliminate physical exhaustion. Elijah is not faithless—he is depleted.
God does not rebuke him for collapsing. He records it.

1 Kings 18:38–39 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+18%3A38-39&version=NKJV
1 Kings 19:3 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+19%3A3&version=NKJV
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2. God’s First Response Is Not Correction, but Care
Elijah sits under a broom tree and asks to die. This is not polished theology. This is not composed prayer. This is a man at the end.
God’s response is striking.
He lets him sleep.
He feeds him.
He lets him sleep again.
He feeds him again.
No lecture. No rebuke. No “Elijah, after all I’ve done…” speech.
Just food and rest.
Sometimes the most spiritual thing God gives a man is a nap and a meal.
God deals with Elijah as a whole person, not just a theological problem.

1 Kings 19:4–6 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+19%3A4-6&version=NKJV
1 Kings 19:7–8 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+19%3A7-8&version=NKJV
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3. God Listens to Distorted Perspective Without Panic
When God finally speaks, He asks a question:
“What are you doing here, Elijah?”
Elijah answers with a mixture of truth and distortion. He has been zealous—that part is true. But then: “I alone am left.” That part is not.
God lets him speak it out.
This is important. God is not threatened by your discouraged version of reality. He hears it fully before correcting it gently.
Exhaustion often rewrites the story in our heads. God does not shame us for that—He meets us in it.

1 Kings 19:9–10 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+19%3A9-10&version=NKJV
Psalm 62:8 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+62%3A8&version=NKJV
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4. God Is Not Always in the Spectacular
Elijah had just seen fire fall from heaven. If anyone expected God to show up dramatically again, it would be him.
Instead—wind, earthquake, fire… and God is in none of them.
Then comes a still small voice.
God is not abandoning power—He is revealing something deeper. Elijah does not need another spectacle. He needs restoration.
The God of Mount Carmel is also the God of quiet caves.
And often, the exhausted soul is healed not by noise, but by gentleness.

1 Kings 19:11–12 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+19%3A11-12&version=NKJV
Isaiah 30:15 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Isaiah+30%3A15&version=NKJV
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5. God Corrects Without Crushing
After Elijah speaks again, God does correct him.
“You are not alone.”
Seven thousand remain.
Notice how God does this. He does not mock Elijah’s perspective. He replaces it.
Exhaustion narrows vision. God widens it.
This is divine faithfulness—not agreeing with our despair, but not abandoning us to it either.

1 Kings 19:14 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+19%3A14&version=NKJV
1 Kings 19:18 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+19%3A18&version=NKJV
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6. God Sends Him Back—Not Because He Failed, but Because He Is Not Finished
God’s final act is not to retire Elijah.
He recommissions him.
“Go, return…”
Elijah is still part of the plan. His exhaustion did not disqualify him. His collapse did not cancel his calling.
God restores him and sends him back into meaningful work.
Faithfulness is not proven by never collapsing. It is proven by being restored and continuing on.

1 Kings 19:15 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=1+Kings+19%3A15&version=NKJV
Galatians 6:9 (NKJV):
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Galatians+6%3A9&version=NKJV

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Reflection Questions
1. Why do you think Elijah collapsed so quickly after such a great victory (1 Kings 18–19)?
2. What does God’s response to Elijah teach you about how He deals with exhaustion?
3. In what ways might your current perspective be shaped by fatigue rather than truth?
4. How does it encourage you that God recommissioned Elijah instead of replacing him?

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Prayer Points
1. Thank God that He deals gently with you in seasons of exhaustion.
2. Ask for the humility to receive rest, not just push through.
3. Pray for clarity where fatigue has distorted your thinking.
4. Ask God for renewed strength to continue in what He has called you to do.

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For Further Study (NKJV):
Psalm 23:1–3
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Psalm+23%3A1-3&version=NKJV
Matthew 11:28–30
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Matthew+11%3A28-30&version=NKJV
2 Corinthians 12:9–10
https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=2+Corinthians+12%3A9-10&version=NKJV
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#HolyWitBibleStudy #GodIsFaithful #Elijah #GordonMcGinnis

STORACALS OF PROPHECY # 21
Hello friends, family, and my brothers, and sisters in Christ.

This is Brother Johnny Gass.

Welcome to Bible study.

Study to show thyself to approved unto God, a Workman unashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth. 2 Timothy 2:15

Please share these lessons with everyone you know for the expansion of the kingdom of God.

Voice in the Wilderness.

Jesus said, "Among them that are born of women there hath not risen a greater than John the Baptist." Matthew 11:11. What do we know about this solitary man whom Jesus called the greatest of the prophets? When John began preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, people came from miles around to hear this powerful, fearless, and humble messenger. In glaring contrast to the religious leaders of the day, his life was marked with holiness and simplicity. While the priests wore luxurious clothing, John wore a modest garment of camel hair with a leather belt. While they were feasting, John was fasting or eating locusts (carob pods) and wild honey. He refused to drink any wine or strong drink, that he might be filled with the Spirit of God (Luke 1:15). Rather than ornate synagogues, John chose the rivers and rocky valleys as his cathedral for preaching. Soon people were asking, "Could this man be Elijah?" John did dress like the Old Testament prophet, but he was not Elijah reincarnated. The angel Gabriel had explained to John's parents before his birth that he would go "in the spirit and power of Elias [the Greek word for "Elijah"] ... to make ready a people prepared for the Lord." Luke 1:17. The key to John's ministry was that he would have the same power of the Holy Spirit as did Elijah to cause a revival among God's people. His special work was to preach repentance for sin and prepare people for Jesus' first coming. The Bible says there will be an entire army of Elijahs and John the Baptists in the last days to do a similar work in preparing the world for Jesus' second coming. "Behold, I will send you Elijah the prophet before the coming of the great and dreadful day of the Lord." Malachi 4:5. (See also Joel 2:28-31.)

1. What was one secret of John's Spirit-filled life?

Luke 3:16. John answered, ... I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latchet of whose shoes I am not ______ to unloose.

John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The Spirit-filled life of John the Baptist was marked by unusual humility. There was a direct connection between John's powerful ministry and the complete surrender he had made to the Lord. It was John's highest joy to point others to Jesus rather than to himself. All he did was designed to bring glory to God's name.

2. Did John the Baptist read the Scriptures?

John 1:23. He said, I am the _______ of one crying in the wilderness, Make straight the way of the Lord, as said the prophet Esaias [the Greek word for "Isaiah"].

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Yes! John quoted from the Old Testament as evidence that he had a solid grasp of the Scriptures. The Bible also tells us that John taught his disciples to fast and to pray often (Matthew 9:14). This is another testimony of his deep love for the Lord. In the same way, through our personal devotions and Bible study, we can come to know and love God and to receive of His Spirit.

3. Was John the Baptist willing to witness for Jesus?

__________ 1:29. The next day ______ seeth Jesus coming unto him, and saith, Behold the Lamb of God, which taketh away the sin of the world.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: : By nature, John was a solitary soul (Luke 1:80). Yet he was willing to risk ridicule and even to lay his life on the line in order to point people to Jesus as Saviour of the world. In the same way, those who truly love the Lord today will be willing to set aside fear and convenience to witness for Jesus.

4. Was the straight preaching of John popular among the political and religious leaders?

Luke 7:30. The Pharisees and lawyers _________ the counsel of God against themselves, being not baptized of him.

Luke 3:19, 20 But Herod the tetrarch, being reproved by him ... for all the evils which Herod had done, ... shut up John in prison.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: John boldly spoke out against the popular sins of the day that were indulged even by the religious leaders. God's last-day message of repentance and holiness will also be unpopular among most of the respected political and church leaders, but it will be biblical.

5. Does the Bible discourage the wearing of jewelry and fancy clothing?

1 Timothy 2:9. In like manner also, that women [and, of course, men] adorn themselves in ______ apparel, ... not with broided hair, or gold, or pearls or costly array.

1 Peter 3:3 Whose adorning let it not be that outward adorning of plaiting the hair, and of wearing of gold, or of putting on of apparel; But let it be the hidden man of the heart, ... even the ornament of a meek and quiet spirit, which is in the sight of God of great price.

Isaiah 3:18-21 In that day the Lord will take away the bravery of their tinkling ornaments about their feet, ... The chains, and the bracelets, and the mufflers [veils], The bonnets, and the ornaments of the legs, and the headbands, and the tablets [perfume boxes], and the earrings, The rings, and nose jewels.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Yes! John the Baptist wore simple, modest clothing--a good pattern for Christians to follow. The popular, sexually suggestive fads and fashions of today encourage a great deal of temptation and debt. God does not intend for us to dress in burlap; however, unduly expensive, flamboyant, or ostentatious clothing should not be part of a Christian's wardrobe. Although the wearing of jewelry is widely accepted in the world, it has a negative image in the Scriptures. You may not recognize all of the items mentioned in Isaiah 3:18-23, but people in other parts of the world do. Many of these pagan ornaments are now appearing in Western culture, as well.

6. Was there a connection between John's Spirit-filled life and his simple diet?

Luke 1:15. For he ... shall drink neither _____ nor strong drink; and he shall be filled with the Holy Ghost.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Christians should completely abstain from all fermented beverages in order to keep their minds clear and to hear God's Spirit (Proverbs 23:31, 32; Habakkuk 2:15; 1 Peter 5:8).

7. Why is God concerned about what we eat and drink?

Judges 13:7. Behold, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and now drink no wine nor strong drink, neither eat any ______ thing: for the child shall be a Nazarite to God from the womb to the day of his death.

1 Corinthians 6:19 Know ye not that your body is the temple of the Holy Ghost which is in you, which ye have of God?

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: There is a direct connection between what we eat or drink and our mental clarity, ability to resist temptation, and capacity to distinguish between right and wrong. Everything a Christian does--including what he eats and drinks--should be done to God's glory (1 Corinthians 10:31).

8. What does the Bible say about worldly behavior?

James 4:4. Whosoever therefore will be a friend of the world is the ______ of God.

2 Corinthians 6:17 Come out from among them, and be ye seperate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you.

1 John 2:15 If any man love the world, the love of the Father is not in him.

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

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: The Lord has called His people today to live exemplary lives as they help others prepare for Jesus' second coming.

9. What should a Christian choose to think about?

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

Psalm 101:3 I will set no wicked thing before mine eyes.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: John the Baptist commanded the people to abstain from all violence (Luke 3:14). For us, this would include watching violence as a form of entertainment. Jesus taught that sins of sex and violence originate in the thoughts and attitudes (Matthew 5:22, 28). Therefore, a Christian should avoid any TV programs, videos, or reading material that would encourage impure thoughts.

10. What type of music will a true Christian enjoy?

Psalms 40:3. He hath put a new _____ in my mouth, even praise unto our God.

1 Samuel 16:23 And it came to pass, when the evil spirit from God was upon Saul, that David took an harp, and played with his hand: so Saul was refreshed, and was well, and the evil spirit departed from him.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: It is obvious that a great majority of the popular music in the world does not help us spiritually. Instead, it destroys our desire for heavenly things and often strengthens the lower nature. However, music can be a tremendous power for good. When King Saul was tormented by an evil spirit, the soothing music from David's harp refreshed him and drove away the evil influence.

11. Is dancing good recreation for a Christian?

1 John 2:6. He that saith he abideth in him ought himself also so to _____, even as he __________ed.

Titus 2:12 Teaching us that, denying ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live soberly, righteously, and godly, in this present world.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Most of the popular contemporary dancing is associated with worldly music and has a very strong sexual emphasis. In almost any situation we should ask, "What would Jesus do?" I think we all agree that our Saviour would not abandon His reason to swing body and limb to the beat of some syncopated rhythm.

12. Will a Christian play the lottery or gamble?

1 Timothy 6:10. For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many _________.

2 Thessalonians 3:10 This we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat.

Proverbs 28:20 He that maketh haste to be rich shall not be innocent.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: Gambling can be just as addictive as many drugs. Some have squandered entire family savings at casinos or on state lottery tickets. Most "get rich quick" schemes are associated with undue risk, unfair prices, and questionable ethics.

13. What should be the aim of God's people today?

1 John 3:22. We _____ his commandments, and do those things that are pleasing in his sight.

Ecclesiastes 12:13 Fear God, and __________ his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: A person cannot live any way he wishes and finally be saved in God's kingdom. This is one reason Jesus came to earth--to give us an example of holy living (1 Peter 2:21).

14. What makes it easy to obey God in the matters of lifestyle discussed in this lesson?

John 14:15. If ye ________ me, keep my commandments.

1 John 5:3 For this is the __________ of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.

Psalm 40:8 I delight to do thy will, O my God: yea, thy law is within my heart.

Answer : ____________________

15. Why is the Christian life such a high calling?

1 Peter 2:9. But ye are a ______ generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praises of him who hath called you out of darkness into his marvelous light.

Answer : ____________________

NOTE: As ambassadors for Jesus, Christians do indeed have a high calling! John the Baptist helped prepare people for Jesus' first coming, and God has called His people today to live holy lives as they help others prepare for Jesus' second coming.

16. Are you willing to be a unique "voice in the wilderness" and witness through a godly lifestyle to prepare others for Jesus' second coming?

Answer : ____________________

Supplemental Study

Ambassadors for Christ
When a person becomes a Christian, he or she is enlisted as an ambassador from a better kingdom. The Bible says, "Now then we are ambassadors for Christ." 2 Corinthians 5:20.

The dictionary defines an ambassador as "a diplomatic official of the highest rank appointed and accredited as representative in residence by one government or sovereign to another, usually for a limited length of time."

Ambassadors are just as important in the spiritual realm as they are in the political realm. Citizens of the kingdom of heaven are not like the citizens of this world. We have been sent into the world to demonstrate who Jesus is and what He is like. Through the Holy Spirit, we become His representatives to reflect His image in everything from the way we talk and work to the way we eat and dress. In other words, when we become part of God's spiritual kingdom, we should be living demonstrations of the government we represent. In 2 Corinthians 3:18, the Scriptures say that "we all ... are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord."

We, the Church, are the hands and feet, the eyes and mouth, and yes, even the ears of Jesus in the world today. We are the body of Christ (Ephesians 1:22, 23 5:29, 30 Colossians 1:18). Before He ascended to heaven, Jesus told us, "As my Father hath sent me, even so send I you." John 20:21.

Every facet of our lives should be a reflection of the life and person of Jesus. "Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father which is in heaven." Matthew 5:16.

To learn more about our Lord Jesus Christ, the Word of God, and the Sabbath, please visit your local Seventh-day Adventist Church.

Or please visit us at Rossville Seventh-day Adventist Church, located at 1737 Mission Ridge Road, Rossville Georgia 30741

Pastor; Greg Hudson

Services start at 11am on Saturday (Sabbath) morning.

April 20th, 2026 - Evening

Topic: National and Generational Impact

Key Scripture: Acts 17:6 – “These men who have caused trouble all over the world have now come here.”

The early church turned their world upside down through the power of the resurrection message, and God is raising you to do the same in this generation. In this post-resurrection season, let revival fire spread across Nigeria and beyond as you step into your place of influence.

Your life can impact generations yet unborn when surrendered to the risen King. Embrace this call with boldness, knowing that the same power that launched the early believers is now at work in you to bring lasting change and glory to the name of Jesus.

Prayer Points:
Let revival fire spread across Nigeria and beyond.

Use my life to impact generations yet unborn.

Elijah stood in a generation that had grown cold, compromised, and distracted. Yet he dared to stand alone, to pray boldly, and to call on God with unwavering faith. And when he prayed, fire fell. Not because he was extraordinary, but because he was available, surrendered, and aligned with God’s will. Today, God is still seeking intercessors, people who will stand in the gap, who will refuse to be silent, who will carry the burden of prayer when others are too distracted to notice. The fire of God has never stopped falling, it simply looks for an altar. And that altar is not made of stone, it is made of willing hearts. The question is no longer, “God, where is another Elijah?”
The question is, “Who will respond when God calls?”
Intercession is not just prayer; it is partnership with heaven. It is choosing to feel what God feels, to speak what He desires, and to persist until something shifts. One voice, yielded to God, can ignite revival. One life set apart can become a channel for divine fire.
#prayer #Elijah #intercessor #consistency #christian

PRAYER & FASTING INVITATION

You are specially invited to a powerful time of Prayer & Fasting that will transform your life forever.

Date: 20th – 26th April
Time: 4:30 PM Daily
Venue: Kisoro Community Church, Nyagashinge Hill

Theme: Covenant Renewal

This is not just another gathering—it is a divine appointment for:
- Spiritual renewal
- Breakthrough and restoration
- Deeper intimacy with God

Come expecting a life-changing encounter. Your moment of transformation is here.

Join us in prayer and experience God like never before!
#PrayerAndFasting
#FireOnTheAltar
#RevivalFire
#IntercessionNation
#SeekGodFirst

Good morning, brethren.

Morning devotion for today.

i. MORNING TEA
THE WORD FOR TODAY. SUNDAY APRIL 19, 2026.
"INSTRUMENT RATED (11)"

‘The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich…’  Proverbs 10:22 KJV

INSTRUMENT RATED for finances. Just when you get ahead a little bit, your car breaks down, your house needs a new roof, and your boiler gives up the ghost. We all experience it. But the instrument-rated believer can fly through financial storms because he has absolute confidence in his gauges and radio. If he looks at them and doubts their accuracy, he’s in serious difficulty. This must all be settled on the ground while he is going through the checklist. He must not take off into the storm if all is not in good order. When it comes to money matters, check your craft. Do you know what the Bible really says about your finances? To fly through or above a financial storm, you must practise biblical stewardship, know what God has promised to you, and stand on it in faith. ‘Give, and it shall be given unto you’ (Luke 6:38). Giving is an act of obedience. It honours God. But there are some things God will not do. He will not be generous with you if you have been stingy with Him or others. The Bible says, ‘The blessing of the Lord, it maketh rich.’ You ask, ‘How rich does God want me to be?’ That depends on four things: your spiritual maturity, your God-given assignment in life, your willingness to put God in first place when it comes to finances, and exercising your faith. Giving is like sowing (2 Corinthians 9:6). When a seed is sown it produces a harvest. But the farmer has to go and get that harvest. Similarly, faith, plus obedience, draws the harvest of God’s blessing into your life.

Bible In A Year: Jam 1-2, Ps 7:1-9, Pro 10:16. Courtesy: Grace So Amazing Foundation

*To partner with us, kindly refer to page 9 of the hard copy edition or simply send us a WhatsApp message/call on +2348128000068.* .

ii. HOW DOES TRUE REVIVAL START?

"And afterward, I will pour out My Spirit on all people." - Joel 2:28

Peter said on the day of Pentecost: 'What is happening here was spoken by the prophet Joel long ago.' This outpouring of the Holy Spirit occurred about 2000 years ago and God's children around the world continue to be filled with the Holy Spirit when they ask God for it.

Deuteronomy 11:14 speaks of the early and late rains. It is very important to know that the early and the late rains were given to Israel by God for a reason. Verse 14 tells us very clearly: 'He will send the rains in their proper seasons — the early and late rains — so you can bring in your harvests.' They were needed to bring in the harvest.

The harvest

The work of the Holy Spirit therefore has to do with bringing in the harvest of precious souls.

Jesus said to His disciples in Acts 1:8: 'You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.'

Two thousand years later we clearly see the work of God's Spirit all over the earth. It is the late rain. James 5:7-8 says: 'Be patient, then, brothers and sisters, until the Lord's coming. See how the farmer waits for the land to yield its valuable crop, patiently waiting for the autumn and spring rains. You too, be patient and stand firm, because the Lord's coming is near.'

On the day of Pentecost one hundred and twenty men and women were gathered in prayer. When the early rain came, three thousand people were saved after Peter's speech. After this, people came to faith in Jesus daily.

Zechariah 12:10 says that God will pour out the Spirit of prayer and grace. A prayer in the Holy Spirit will always focus on the prayer of Jesus, so that God will send workers into His vineyard. Revival comes through fervent, persistent prayer!


https://www.theblessingdevotional.com

2. Morning, prayer for today.

i. Morning Prayer

But they that wait upon the LORD shall renew [their] strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; [and] they shall walk, and not faint. ⏤ Isaiah 40:31

Sunday clears away the rust of the whole week. ⏤ Joseph Addison

As we begin this holy Sunday, our Father, we ask for Your Sunday blessing. On this day, which reminds us of our Savior’s resurrection, may we rise to a holier, truer, and more heavenly life. May we walk in the light of Your love. As we wait on You, renew our strength so that we can run without growing weary and walk without fainting in the week ahead.

We ask that You bless us in our private and public worship on this holy day. May Your blessing rest on all worshiping assemblies of Your people. May this be a day of spiritual renewal in all the churches. Bless all Sunday schools. May Your grace fill the heart of every teacher, and may every child who receives instruction be blessed through Your word. Bless all missionaries and fill them with Your Holy Spirit, preparing them for worthy service.

We pray that You will bless us in our worship today. Help us leave behind every worldly thought and care as we enter Your sanctuary. As we wait before You, may we receive instruction from Your word and inspiration from Your Spirit, so that we may be strong for the battles and duties ahead. Help us today as we minister to others. May we bring love and peace to each other in our home. Help us bring comfort to those who are grieving, encouragement to those who are discouraged, and compassion to those who are in distress.

We give ourselves to You for a Sunday filled with blessing, love, and peace. May our home receive new divine influences from above. May this be a shining day in the story of our lives. And we will give You the praise and the honor forever. Amen.

https://www.youdevotion.com/daily-prayer/miller/14/morning

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This Week's Prayer Guide


April 19 - This week, pray for the needs of churches in Xiangtan. Pray for churches in Xiangtan to be transformed by the gospel of Christ.

April 20 - Many house church leaders in Xiangtan shared that two rounds of persecution in recent years have driven their churches to gather in smaller groups, or even meet in private homes. The uncertainty of what the future may look like makes it difficult to plan ahead. Pray that God will give church leaders clarity and flexibility in times of uncertainty, and give the brothers and sisters patience and understanding as they endure changes.

April 21 - Due to the division into small groups, many brothers and sisters have left the church, which led to some financial challenges for these congregations. The old model of ministering to a full congregation does not work in this new environment, and churches lack sufficient preachers to build up the body of Christ. Pray that God will provide sufficient resources to Xiangtan churches to continue their ministry, give brothers and sisters unity in their mission, and prepare new preachers to carry the work onward.

April 22 - Persecution has forced some churches to fall into the government’s regulations. One pastor shared, "One very regrettable thing is that most of the larger churches in Xiangtan have been brought under state control and have registered with the Three-Self church…They were not even clear about what the Three-Self church was. Even some of our house church pastors were not very clear about why we should not join it, nor did they really understand the root issues involved." Please pray that church leaders in Xiangtan can persevere in the truth and remain faithful to the Lordship of Christ, and that this conviction will grow as Christians deepen their understanding in the gospel.

April 23 - Breaking into smaller gatherings has its upsides. One pastor shared, "The number of people serving has increased. Under the home church structure, many people have been called out by God to serve in their own small household settings. Scripture says that the saints are to be equipped and each is to do his part. That is God’s will. Also, because the scale is smaller, family relationships have improved and intimacy has increased. Sharing among brothers and sisters and among small groups has become much deeper." Praise God that he continues to grow his church, even as the sizes of the gatherings become smaller. Pray that this deepening of faith will one day be the foundation of new revivals in the city.

April 24 - Church leaders generally agree that Xiangtan is a hard soil for the gospel, "On the one hand, the church has not been built on the right foundation. At the same time, Xiangtan people tend to be stubborn and blunt by temperament, and it is hard to manifest the life of the Lord. Added to that, there are conflicts inside the church, and outside the church there is only limited room to live out the faith." Pray that the Spirit of Christ will bear fruits of love and gentleness among the churches in Xiangtan, that the world would know that they are followers of Jesus by their love for each other.

April 25 - Historically, Xiangtan churches have operated independently from each other, "scattered like loose sand." But under persecution, "Relationships among the house churches have begun to ease. Because we are so weak, some older preachers have begun to unite, gathering everyone to build relationships and pray together. There has begun to be some softening, some mutual acceptance, and some progress in that direction." Pray that this unity among churches will give church leaders new courage and synergy. May the Spirit of Christ stir the hearts of these church leaders to collaborate more effectively for the sake of his Kingdom.

4月19日——本周，请为湘潭各教会的需要祷告。求主让湘潭的教会因基督的福音而得到更新。

4月20日——湘潭许多家庭教会领袖分享说，近年来经历的两轮逼迫迫使他们的教会改以更小的群体聚会，甚至在私人住宅中聚会。未来的不确定性让他们难以制定长远计划。 求神在这充满不确定性的时期，赐给教会领袖清晰的洞见和灵活的应对能力，并赐给弟兄姊妹在经历变迁时的耐心与体谅。

4月21日——由于分组聚会，许多弟兄姊妹离开了教会，这给这些教会带来了经济上的挑战。 传统的教会事工模式在新环境下已行不通，且教会缺乏足够的传道人来建造基督的身体。 求神为湘潭的教会提供充足的资源以延续事工，赐给弟兄姊妹在使命中合一，并预备新的传道人来承接这项工作。

4月22日 - 迫害迫使一些教会屈从于政府的管制。一位牧师分享道："非常遗憾的是，湘潭大多数较大的教会已被纳入国家控制之下，并在三自教会注册……他们甚至不清楚三自教会是什么。我们的一些家庭教会牧师也不太清楚为什么不该加入三自，也不真正理解其中涉及的根本问题。"请祷告，愿湘潭的教会领袖能持守真理，忠于基督的主权。随着基督徒对福音理解的加深，他们的忠信也能日益增长。

4月23日——分组进行小型聚会也有其好处。一位牧师分享道："服侍的人数增加了。在家庭教会模式下，许多人被神呼召，在自己的小家庭中服侍。圣经说，圣徒要被装备，各人都要尽自己的本分。这就是神的旨意。此外，由于规模缩小，家庭关系得到了改善，彼此间的亲密感也增强了。弟兄姐妹之间以及小组内的分享变得更加深入。" 赞美神，即使聚会规模变小，祂仍在持续扩展祂的教会。祈求这种日益加深的信心终将成为这座城市新一轮复兴的根基。

4月24日——教会领袖普遍认为湘潭是福音的硬土："一方面，教会并未建立在正确的根基上。同时，湘潭人天性倔强直率，难以彰显主的生命。加之教会内部存在冲突，而教会外部践行信仰的空间也十分有限。" 求主让基督的灵在湘潭各教会中结出仁爱与温柔的果子，使世人因他们彼此相爱，知道他们是耶稣的门徒。

4月25日——历史上，湘潭各教会一直各自为政，"如散沙般分散"。但在逼迫之下，家庭教会之间的关系开始缓和。"正因我们如此软弱，一些年长的传道人开始联合起来，召集众人建立关系并一同祷告。彼此间已开始出现一些缓和、相互接纳，并朝着这个方向有所进展。" 求主让教会间的这种合一赋予教会领袖新的勇气与协同力量。愿基督的灵感动这些教会领袖的心，为祂的国度更有效地同工。

THIS IS TRUE!
After a generated image depicting a political leader as Jesus was removed, the political leader stated that he believed the picture showed him as a doctor next to a Red Cross worker and that is because he “makes people better.”

Even with this fumbled explanation, many people are missing a much deeper spiritual point.
Scripture already tells us who the true Physician is.

“Those who are well have no need of a physician, but those who are sick… For I did not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance.” (Luke 5:31–32)

Jesus is the Great Physician — the healer of hearts, souls, and humanity itself.

“I am the Lord who heals you.” (Exodus 15:26)

No human leader, no political party, no government has ever been given that role or will be. Yet in recent years we have repeatedly seen imagery portraying political power in royal, priestly, or even sacred roles — a pope, a king on a throne, a national savior, a healer of the people. Whether meant as humor, exaggeration, instigation or symbolism, the pattern itself should make believers pause.

Because Scripture repeatedly warns us about the elevation of human leaders beyond their proper place.

“Cursed is the man who trusts in man and makes flesh his strength.” (Jeremiah 17:5)

“Do not put your trust in princes, nor in a son of man, in whom there is no help.” (Psalm 146:3)

The issue is not politics alone.
It is the human tendency to exalt leaders in ways that belong only to Christ.
Throughout history, God’s people have struggled with this. Israel once asked for a king so they could be like other nations. God’s response was sobering.

“They have not rejected you, but they have rejected Me, that I should not reign over them.” (1 Samuel 8:7)

Whenever believers begin to look to human power as a source of national healing, moral revival, or spiritual restoration, we repeat this same mistake. Because the Bible is clear, the healing of the world will not come through political power.

“My kingdom is not of this world.” (John 18:36)

The deeper danger is spiritual blindness. When loyalty to political identity becomes stronger than loyalty to Christ, hypocrisy and confusion follow. Paul warned that deception in the last days would be powerful and persuasive.

“Let no one deceive you by any means.” (2 Thessalonians 2:3)

This is why Scripture constantly redirects our focus away from human saviors and back to Jesus.

“Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” (Hebrews 12:2)

There is so much happening in the world today. Emotions are high, loyalties are strong, echo chambers are being set and opinions are loud. But followers of Christ must be careful not to let political identity replace spiritual discernment.

Only one King heals the world.
Only one Savior redeems humanity.
Only one Physician can cure the sickness of sin.

And His kingdom is not built by human power.

REMBER; Jeremiah 17:5-8 says;

5. Thus says the Lord:

“Cursed is the man who trusts in man
And makes flesh his strength,
Whose heart departs from the Lord.

6. For he shall be like a shrub in the desert,
And shall not see when good comes,
But shall inhabit the parched places in the wilderness,
In a salt land which is not inhabited.

7. “Blessed is the man who trusts in the Lord,
And whose hope is the Lord.

8. For he shall be like a tree planted by the waters,
Which spreads out its roots by the river,
And will not [b]fear when heat comes;
But its leaf will be green,
And will not be anxious in the year of drought,
Nor will cease from yielding fruit.

Do you feel dead, dry? As if nothing good can come out of you… as if you’re too far gone to return or be restored?

God’s Word shows us something different — that the Lord can bring us back to life.

“…can they revive the stones from the heaps of rubbish—stones that are burned?” (Nehemiah 4:2)

Often the enemy whispers:
“Why do you keep going? Why do you try to stand when you keep falling? Give up…”

But God says something else.

He does not give up on you.
He wants you to rise once again.
Once again to wash yourself.
Once again to go to the altar.
Once again to bring a sacrifice.

David fell greatly… but he did not stay on the ground.

“Then David arose from the ground, washed and anointed himself… and went into the house of the Lord and worshiped.” (2 Samuel 12)

This is the power of revival.

It’s not perfection that brings you back to God — it’s the decision to rise again.

After pain came comfort.
After the fall — restoration.
After sin — grace.

And Solomon was the evidence:
God’s mercy does not work according to our expectations, but according to His will.

You are not finished.
You are not lost.
God is still working in you.

Rise again.