DAILY MANNA
FRIDAY, MAY 21, 2021
SCAMMING WITH GOD’S NAME
TEXT: Jeremiah 23:23-32
KEY VERSE:
“I have heard what the prophets said, that prophesy lies in my name, saying, I have dreamed, I have dreamed.” - (Jeremiah 23:25)
Scammers and fraudsters employ different methods in their business. One of the very common ways is by impersonating the personality of a public figure. This is why it is important to be very sure of whoever one is dealing with.
It is sad to know that scamming is not only associated with the world and in business places, but also in the house of God. God, through Prophet Jeremiah, condemns the activities of deceivers who go about in the name of God. God declares clearly and strongly that He does not know these crafty schemers as He has not sent them. They proclaim dreams and prophecies falsely in God’s name. Their main objective is to deceive and defraud their victims. God declares that they do not in any way profit the people.
Today, scamming and other forms of fraud have risen to a very alarming dimension. Unfortunately, the Church has not been left out. So many prophets have risen up giving out false prophecies in the name of God. They take advantage of the desperate condition of our time and the gullible nature of most people to deceive and swindle them. They do not have any interest in the good of the people or the glory of God.
As God condemned the false prophets in Jeremiah’s day, He is equally against today’s prophets and preachers who are scamming people in His name. The Christian therefore must beware of these scammers and take responsibility for his personal safety and security. Jumping from one prayer house to the other gets you exposed to deception. This is why a regular personal study of the Bible and consistent presence in the Bible Study sessions become necessary to help us unmask false prophets all around.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY:
The word of God shields from religious scammers.
THE BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:
1 Samuel 1-2
HIGHER EVERYDAY
FRIDAY MAY 21, 2021
SICK BUT NOT SINFUL
TEXT: JOB 2:1-10
MEMORY VERSE: "Though he slay me, yet will I trust in him: but I will maintain mine own ways before him" (JOB 13:15).
Once upon a time, the Devil challenged God after God's testimony concerning Job's righteousness, that Job was righteous only because all was well with him and that he would forget righteousness if he was afflicted. Satan's old tricks and methods have not changed. Sometimes, believers go through challenging situations like sickness. However, they do not come from God but from the Devil, although, with God's knowledge and permission as trials of faith.
Like Job, when believers are faced with sickness, we should not lose hope and turn our back on God or go into sin, but have faith in God and His promises concerning our health, and put them to effect through prayers. We should avoid complaining, murmuring and bad attitudes towards God, His service and fellow men when sick or afflicted. Rather, praise God, pray and trust Him for healing.
God eventually healed Job and prospered him. When you are afflicted, trust in God. Do not give up; it will soon be over. Remember, we are healed by His stripes.
QUOTE: When you are afflicted, trust in God.
CHALLENGE: God or the Devil: who will win in your trying time?
PRAYER: Oh Lord, give me the grace to be faithful in challenges.