Beloved, we are glad you could join in today again, we look forward to your engagement everyday as always. Please, say these prayers in faith and believe God for a performance.

Note: These prayers are spiritual, this can only be understood and fully accessed by God’s children. If you want to be blessed from these prayers, you must first, surrender your life to the Lord Jesus Christ, by saying this prayer:

“Lord Jesus, I come before You today with a broken and contrite heart full of repentance. Please, forgive me all my sins. Today, I surrender my life to You, I believe that Jesus is Lord and I confess it with my mouth. Jesus, come into my life and save my soul from eternal destruction in hellfire. In Jesus’ name, I pray.”

If you joined in that life-changing prayer, congratulations! Welcome to the family of God. Kindly reach us today via this email: [email protected]

Today’s Devotional: Open Heavens 20 May 2022

Powerful Declarations: Powerful Declarations For Today 20 May 2022

Today’s Powerful Confession: I confess today I don’t speak negative things. My mouth shall not transgress. I will speak forth the righteousness of God all the day long. I never bind a sister or brother with the words of my mouth. I am always a positive encouragement. I edify and build up; I never tear down or destroy in Jesus name. Amen Hallelujah!

PRAYER POINTS

O give thanks to the Lord of lords for his mercies endureth forever in Jesus name.

Lord I pray that you forgive all of my iniquities and wash all my sin in the name of Jesus.

Father, help me to continually live for you and walk in holiness in Jesus name. 
 
Lord, may I not derail and fall short. Help me to remain rooted in you always in Jesus name. 
 
Father, today I pray for my family and I, may we not miss the rapture in Jesus name.

Oh Lord, keep your church and help us to be faithful to you. May we not be here when the evil after rapture begins in Jesus name.

Father I pray my hands will prosper and prevail over all of my enemy in the name of Jesus.

Lord I pray as I obey and serve you, I shall spend my days in, prosperity and my years in pleasures in Jesus name.

God I pray for your mercies this day. I pray that you bless me and be my guide in the name of Jesus.

Father grant me grace and endurance to run the race set before me. And help me to continue to look unto Jesus, in Jesus name.

Oh Lord, bless your servant Pastor Enoch Adejare Adeboye for all his years of continual service, remember him guide him on the path and help him remain focused and bless his entire household, fulfill all Your promises for their liberation, ministry and family, in Jesus’ name.

Thank You Father for the intercessory team and the online platform (rccgonline.org) and that which You have put in their hearts, I pray that You make them as flaming swords to bring men to Your kingdom and shut down the works of darkness in the name of Jesus.

Father, bless everyone dedicating their time to pray through these prayers & declarations at the point of their needs. Give them the grace to share/rebroadcast, in Jesus’ name.

Father, please uphold Your children working everyday on this platform (rccgonline.org) to prepare these prayers and declarations with Your right hand of righteousness and all those who have been rebroadcasting them, give them the grace to keep up with this good work of Faith, in the name of Jesus.

Father, let every challenge, hindrance and obstacle of getting these prayer points across to Your children, timely, and on daily basis be removed, in Jesus’ name.

Submit yourself and your personal petitions to God. Cast all your cares on Him, for He cares for you

( Philippians 4:6)

In Jesus’ name I pray.

(John 14:13-14; 15:16)

Thank you Father for answered prayers.

(1 Thessalonians 5:18).

#GodBlessOurNation

These prayers have no expiry date! Please, pray them, irrespective of the time they get to you. Remain blessed, in Jesus’ name.

LESSON THIRTY-EIGHT (38)
TOPIC: THE MIGHTY SAMSON

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1.  O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friend friendship suits me well,
Both young and will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

BIBLE PASSAGE: JUDGES 13:1-5

1 And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD; and the LORD delivered them into the hand of the Philistines forty years.

2 And there was a certain man of Zorah, of the family of the Danites, whose name was Manoah; and his wife was barren, and bare not.

3 And the angel of the LORD appeared unto the woman, and said unto her, Behold now, thou art barren, and bearest not: but thou shalt conceive, and bear a son.

4 Now therefore beware, I pray thee, and drink not wine nor strong drink, and eat not any unclean thing:

5 For, lo, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and no razor shall come on his head: for the child shall be a Nazarite unto God from the womb: and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines.

MEMORY VERSE: “For behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. And no razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be in Nazirite to God from the womb; and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines”. — Judges 13:5

INTRODUCTION : Samson is one of the few in the scripture whose birth was divinely pre-announced to his parents (Judges 13:3). He shares this honour with Isaac, John the Baptist, and Jesus. Samson, whose name means “sunshine,” was born sometimes between 1045 BC and 1000 BC, during a dark period of Israel’s history. His father was Manoah of the family of Danites (Judges 13:2).

Samson was born a Nazirite, meaning he was “separated”  or “set aside” for God. This meant that he was not to drink wine or fruit of the vine. He could not go near or touch a dead body, human or animal, nor could he cut his hair (Numbers 6:2-6). After his death, he was buried between Zorah and Eshtaol in the tomb of Manoah his father.

LESSON OUTLINES:
1. ACHIEVEMENTS AND FLAWS
2. LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE

1. ACHIEVEMENTS AND FLAWS
Samson was a judge in Israel. He Judged Israel for twenty years with landmark achievements though with flaw worthy of note. God’s purpose for Samson’s life was to begin the Deliverance of Israel from the Philistines (Judges 13:5). Samson was a powerful man with supernatural strength.

With the Spirit of God upon him, he killed a lion with his bare hands (Judges 14:5-6); he killed thirty men (Philistines) and took their belongings (Judges 14:19); he killed a thousand men (Philistines) with the jaw bone of an ass (Judges 15:14-16); he lifted the gates of the city and took them up a mountain (Judges 16:3).

He was also very intelligent with an unusual sense of humour (Judges 14:12-14). Samson enjoyed answers to prayers in fulfillment of God’s purpose (Judges 15:18; 16:28). He repented towards the end of his life and called upon the Lord and his strength returned, he slew more philistines at his death than he slew during his life (Judges 16:30).

Though he was set apart for special service to God (Judges 13:5), Samson ignored and violated his Nazirite vow of godly devotion and relied upon his own strength and abilities rather than God’s. He was courageous before men but weak when it comes to women (Proverbs 5:3; Proverbs 6:32; Matthew 5:28).

His weakness for the Philistine women culminated in his fall (Judges 14:1-3; Judges 16:1-22). His passion for women was more important to him than God’s expressed will (Deuteronomy 7:3). While he had almost unlimited potential to deliver his people from the Philistines, his story ends in needless tragedy. He died with the enemies  (Judges 16:30).

Samson was swallow shallow and vengeful like the Philistines (Judges 15:10) which is the world’s mindset today and contrary to the teachings of Christ (Matthew 5:38). Summarily, Samson’s disobedience and love for strange women led to his defeat, disgrace and destruction.

2. LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE
There are several lessons to learn from Samson’s life.
1. Though we may not be given great physical strength like Samson, God will give us great spiritual strength when we need it (Philippians 4:13).

2. Believers should watch out for things and people that can entice them to sin. We must not allow the yearnings of the flesh to control our lives (1John 2:15-17 2Corinthians 6:17)

3. The seemingly harmless sins some believers are committing and getting away with are simply baits from the devil to encourage them to go deeper. The devil is not stupid; he has planned a big downfall along the line (2Samuel 11:2-15).

4. When you sin no matter how grievous, repent and call upon God. He will always hear your cry of repentance and forgive you (Isaiah 1:18; Acts 2:21; Acts 3:19)

5. Spiritual gifts and not pointers to spiritual maturity. Believers should strive to bear the fruit of the Spirit to remain in tune with God (Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians 5:9).

6. Perhaps the greatest lesson we learn is that God would rather forgive than Judge. In the final analysis, God saw Samson as a man of faith. This is evidenced by the fact that he is listed among those in the hall of faith (Hebrews 11:32).

CONCLUSION: Samson’s story is a strong warning to every Christian never to toy with sin.

QUESTIONS:
1. What are the achievements seen in Samson’s life?
2. Mention four (4) lessons you learnt from the life of Samson.

FURTHER READING: MON: Phil.4:13. TUE: Gal.5:22-23. WED: Eph.5:9. THUR: Acts 2:21. FRI: Matt.5:28. SAT: Eph.5:9-10. SUN: 1Thess.5:21.

ASSIGNMENT : Mention five (5) life achievements of Samson.

LESSON THIRTY EIGHT (38)
TOPIC: KING SOLOMON

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friend friendship suits me well,
Both young and old will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,l
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

OPENING PRAYER: Almighty Father, please grant Your children wisdom, exceeding understanding and largeness of heart to do what is pleasing to You at all places and times in the name of Jesus.

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 CHRONICLES 9:22-28

[22]And king Solomon passed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom.

[23]And all the kings of the earth sought the presence of Solomon, to hear his wisdom, that God had put in his heart.

[24]And they brought every man his present, vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and raiment, harness, and spices, horses, and mules, a rate year by year.

[25]And Solomon had four thousand stalls for horses and chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen; whom he bestowed in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem.

[26]And he reigned over all the kings from the river even unto the land of the Philistines, and to the border of Egypt.

[27]And the king made silver in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar trees made he as the sycomore trees that are in the low plains in abundance.

[28]And they brought unto Solomon horses out of Egypt, and out of all lands.

MEMORY VERSE: “And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore.” 1 Kings 4:29.

INTRODUCTION: Solomon was born in Jerusalem 1000 BC to King David and Bathsheba. He was David sixteenth son. Solomon was a fabulously wealthy and wise king of a united kingdom of Israel who succeeded his father king David. He was one of the most powerful kings of the eastern lands. He is the author of 3000 proverbs and he composed 1005 songs (1 Kings 4:32).

TEXT REVIEW: 2 Chronicles 9:22-28.
In addition to the fact that the Almighty God granted exceeding understanding to King Solomon. Teacher should find out five (5) other things which God granted King Solomon.
i. ———————————————————————
ii. ——————————————————————-
iii. ——————————————————————-
iv. ——————————————————————-
v. ——————————————————————-

LESSON OUTLINES:
1. CHARACTER AND HIS ACHIEVEMENTS
2. LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE

LESSON OUTLINE 1. CHARACTER AND HIS ACHIEVEMENTS
Question 1: What are those things which characterized the reign of King Solomon between 970BC to 930BC?
Answers: i. There was peace (No war). (1Kgs.4:24).
i. There were riches and honour in his kingdom. (1Kgs. 3:13).

ii. His administration was guided with divine wisdom. (2Chron. 9:22).

iii. There was justice. (1Kgs.3:16-28).
iv. Sacrifices were offered to God abundantly. (1Kgs.3:4).

Question 2: What were the achievements of King Solomon?
Answers: i. He built the house of the Lord, the temple of the Lord on mount Moriah. (2Chron.3:1).

ii. He married 700 wives and 300 concubines. (1Kgs.11:3) (which later became a big problem to him).

iii. He had exceeding understanding and wisdom above any other persons. (1Kgs.3:12).

iv. He had riches and honour beyond any king in his days. (1Kgs.3:13).

v. He sacrificed one thousand burnt offerings to the Lord at one time in Gibeon. (1Kgs.3:4).

vi. He asked for a wise and understanding heart, where as other king in his position might have asked for riches and the lives of his enemies. (1Kgs.3:11-12).

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Compare and contrast the societies in the days of Solomon and in our days.

LESSON OUTLINE 2. LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE
Teacher should allow each student to mention:
A. Lesson(s) they learn from the person and reign of King Solomon

B. Teacher should explain the four lessons listed below to the students.
i. If you need wisdom, ask God for it and He will give it to you. If you believe and do not waver. (James 1:5-8).

ii. Do not take things of the world unto yourself, or they may become a snare to you. Keep yourself separate from them. (1Jn.2:15-17).

iii. Riches and wisdom will not keep you spiritually safe if you insist on disobeying God. (Col. 3:5-6).

iv. We should not just know what is right, but do what is right. (James 4:17).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Discuss the challenges of King Solomon according in the light of achievement, character and lesson from his life.

SUMMARY: Divine wisdom and fear of God are important keys to prosperity. (Eccl. 12:13).

CONCLUSION: Solomon was human just like all of us and everyone makes mistakes. Thankfully, if we genuinely repent, we serve a redeeming God whose grace and love are unmatched.

EVALUATION: What are the achievements, characters and lesson from King Solomon.

CLOSING PRAYER: Almighty Father, please fill all Your children with pure wisdom from above.

ASSIGNMENT; Identify any five (5) possible problems of wealth.

LESSON THIRTY-EIGHT (38)
TOPIC: THE MIGHTY SAMSON

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1.  O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friend friendship suits me well,
Both young and will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

OPENING PRAYER: Father, help me to discover Your plan and purpose for my life.

MEMORY VERSE: “For behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. And no razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be in Nazirite to God from the womb; and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines”. — Judges 13:5

BIBLE PASSAGE: JUDGES 13:1-5

1 And the children of Israel did evil again in the sight of the LORD; and the LORD delivered them into the hand of the Philistines forty years.

2 And there was a certain man of Zorah, of the family of the Danites, whose name was Manoah; and his wife was barren, and bare not.

3 And the angel of the LORD appeared unto the woman, and said unto her, Behold now, thou art barren, and bearest not: but thou shalt conceive, and bear a son.

4 Now therefore beware, I pray thee, and drink not wine nor strong drink, and eat not any unclean thing:

5 For, lo, thou shalt conceive, and bear a son; and no razor shall come on his head: for the child shall be a Nazarite unto God from the womb: and he shall begin to deliver Israel out of the hand of the Philistines.

INTRODUCTION : Samson is one of the few in the scripture whose birth was divinely pre-announced to his parents (Judges 13:3). He shares this honour with Isaac, John the Baptist, and Jesus. Samson, whose name means “sunshine,” was born sometimes between 1045 BC and 1000 BC, during a dark period of Israel’s history. His father was Manoah of the family of Danites (Judges 13:2).

Samson was born a Nazirite, meaning he was “separated”  or “set aside” for God. This meant that he was not to drink wine or fruit of the vine. He could not go near or touch a dead body, human or animal, nor could he cut his hair (Numbers 6:2-6). After his death, he was buried between Zorah and Eshtaol in the tomb of Manoah his father.

TEXT REVIEW: Judges 13:1-5.
In this passage,
A. The children of Israel did evil in the sight of the Lord. God allowed the philistine to rule them for forty years. V1.
B. The name of Samson’s father is Manoah from the family of Dan. V2a.
C. Samson’s mother was unable to………..V2b.
D. The angel of the Lord appeared to Samson’s mother and told her the following things:
i. ………………………………. V3a.
ii. ……………………………… V3b.
iii. ………………………………V4a.
iv. ………………………………V4b.
v. ……………………………….V5a.
vi. ………………………………V5b.
vii. ……………………………..V5c.
viii. …………………………….V5d.

LESSON OUTLINES
1. ACHIEVEMENTS AND FLAWS
2. LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE

1. ACHIEVEMENTS AND FLAWS
Teacher should allow the class discuss the achievements and flaws of Samson and guide the class through the following points.
A. Samson’s Achievements
i. Samson was a judge in Israel. He Judged Israel for twenty years with landmark achievements though with flaw worthy of note.
ii. God’s purpose for Samson’s life was to begin the Deliverance of Israel from the Philistines (Judges 13:5) and this he achieved.

iii. Samson was a powerful man with supernatural strength. With the Spirit of God upon him:
a. He killed a lion with his bare hands (Judges 14:5-6).

b. He killed thirty men (Philistines) and took their belongings (Judges 14:19).

c. He killed a thousand men (Philistines) with the jaw bone of an ass (Judges 15:14-16).

d. He lifted the gates of the city and took them up a mountain (Judges 16:3).

e. He was also very intelligent with an unusual sense of humour (Judges 14:12-14).

iv. Samson enjoyed answers to prayers in fulfillment of God’s purpose (Judges 15:18; 16:28).

v. He repented towards the end of his life and
called upon the Lord and his strength returned, he slew more philistines at his death than he slew during his life (Judges 16:30).

B. SAMSON’S FLAWS:
Though he was set apart for special service to God (Judges 13:5) Samson
i. Ignored and violated his Nazirite vow of godly devotion

ii. Relied upon his own strength and abilities rather than God’s. (Proverbs 5:3)

iii. He was courageous before men but weak when it comes to women (Proverbs 6:32; Matthew 5:28).

iv. His weakness for the Philistine women culminated in his fall (Judges 14:1-3; Judges 16:1-22).

v. His passion for women was more important to him than God’s expressed will (Deuteronomy 7:3).

vi. While he had almost unlimited potential to deliver his people from the Philistines, his story ends in needless tragedy.

vii. He died with the enemies  (Judges 16:30).
viii. Samson was swallow and vengeful like the Philistines (Judges 15:10) which is the world’s mindset today and contrary to the teachings of Christ (Matthew 5:38).

ix. Samson’s disobedience and love for strange women led to his defeat, disgrace and destruction.

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Students should discuss practical ways youth can avoid the flaws of Samson

2. LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE
Teacher should ask the class to discuss the remarkable lessons youths should learn from the life of Samson.
There are several lessons to learn from Samson’s life:
1. Though we may not be given great physical strength like Samson, God will give us great spiritual strength when we need it (Philippians 4:13).

2. Believers should watch out for things and people that can entice them to sin. We must not allow the yearnings of the flesh to control our lives (1John 2:15-17 2Corinthians 6:17)

3. The seemingly harmless sins some believers are committing and getting away with are simply baits from the devil to encourage them to go deeper. The devil is not stupid; he has planned a big downfall along the line (2Samuel 11:2-15).

4. When you sin no matter how grievous, repent and call upon God. He will always hear your cry of repentance and forgive you (Isaiah 1:18; Acts 2:21; Acts 3:19)

5. Spiritual gifts and not pointers to spiritual maturity. Believers should strive to bear the fruit of the Spirit to remain in tune with God (Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians 5:9).

6. Perhaps the greatest lesson we learn is that God would rather forgive than Judge. In the final analysis, God saw Samson as a man of faith. This is evidenced by the fact that he is listed among those in the hall of faith (Hebrews 11:32).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should discuss how the lesson learnt from Samson’s life can help a youth.

SUMMARY: Samson was a man destined by God for greatness but due to his many flaws, his life was cut short. Youth should learn great lessons from Samson’s life.

CONCLUSION: Samson’s story is a strong warning to every Christian never to toy with sin.

EVALUATION: Teacher should ask students to mention some of the flaws of Samson.

CLOSING PRAYER: Father, help me to fulfill your plans and purpose for my life.

ASSIGNMENT : Mention five (5) life achievements of Samson.

RCCG SUNDAY SCHOOL STUDENTS’ MANUAL 22 MAY 2022

LESSON THIRTY EIGHT (38)
TOPIC: KING SOLOMON

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
1. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
O how I love Thee well,
I am happy, it makes me glad
To rejoice at Thy birth.

2. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Thy friend friendship suits me well,
Both young and old will sing Thy song,
We long for Sunday School.

3. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Christ was Thy first teacher,
The Holy Spirit, great teacher,l
Does manifest in thee.

4. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
This testimony is sure,
That God, the Father Almighty,
Poured His blessing on Thee

5. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day,
Though the sun be so bright,
Or if the clouds be black with rain,
I’ll be in Sunday School.

6. O Sunday School, on the Lord’s day
I rejoice to see Thee,
Will thou pass over me today?
Without my being blest?

MEMORY VERSE: “And God gave Solomon wisdom and understanding exceeding much, and largeness of heart, even as the sand that is on the sea shore.” 1 Kings 4:29.

OPENING PRAYER: Almighty Father, please grant Your children wisdom, exceeding understanding and largeness of heart to do what is pleasing to You at all places and times in the name of Jesus.

BIBLE PASSAGE: 2 CHRONICLES 9:22-28
[22]And king Solomon passed all the kings of the earth in riches and wisdom.

[23]And all the kings of the earth sought the presence of Solomon, to hear his wisdom, that God had put in his heart.

[24]And they brought every man his present, vessels of silver, and vessels of gold, and raiment, harness, and spices, horses, and mules, a rate year by year.

[25]And Solomon had four thousand stalls for horses and chariots, and twelve thousand horsemen; whom he bestowed in the chariot cities, and with the king at Jerusalem.

[26]And he reigned over all the kings from the river even unto the land of the Philistines, and to the border of Egypt.

[27]And the king made silver in Jerusalem as stones, and cedar trees made he as the sycomore trees that are in the low plains in abundance.

[28]And they brought unto Solomon horses out of Egypt, and out of all lands.

INTRODUCTION: Solomon was born in Jerusalem 1000 BC to King David and Bathsheba. He was David sixteenth son. Solomon was a fabulously wealthy and wise king of a united kingdom of Israel who succeeded his father king David. He was one of the most powerful kings of the eastern lands. He is the author of 3000 proverbs and he composed 1005 songs (1 Kings 4:32).

OUTLINES:
1. CHARACTER AND HIS ACHIEVEMENTS
2. LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE

1. CHARACTER AND HIS ACHIEVEMENTS
King Solomon ruled Israel between 970 BC and 930 BC. He wrote Song of Solomon (also called Song of Songs), Proverbs and Ecclesiastes. He asked the Lord for an understanding heart to judge His people that he might discern between good and evil (1Kgs.3:9).

Because he did not ask for long life, riches and or the life of his enemies, the Lord gave him “a wise and an understanding heart” (1Kgs. 3:11-12). He built the house of the Lord, the temple, on Mount Moriah (2Chron.3:1). King Solomon was famously known for his wisdom (2Chron.9:22).

He surpassed all of the kings of the earth in riches and honour in his days (1Kgs.3:13). His reign was the most peaceful as he did not fight any war (1Kgs.4:24). Towards the end of his life, he had 700 wives (Princesses) 300 concubines (1Kgs.11:3).

He summed up all life had taught him in the last chapter of Ecclesiastes: “…Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man” (Eccl.12:13b).

2. LESSONS FROM HIS LIFE
The wisest and the richest man that ever lived was Solomon. God revealed Himself to him physically and talked with him twice. King Solomon took many foreign wives for himself, which God had forbidden him to do, and they turned his heart to other gods, as God had warned Him. So, God tore the kingdom out of the hand of his son (1Kgs. 11:1-12). Here are some crucial lessons to learn from the life of Solomon:
1. If you need wisdom, ask God for it and He will give it to you – If you believe and do not waver (James 1:5-8).

2. Do not take things of the world unto yourself, or they may become a snare to you – keep yourself separate from them (1Jn.2:15-17).

3. Riches and wisdom will not keep you spiritually safe if you insist on disobeying God (Col.3:5-6).

4. We should not just know what is right, but do what is right (James 4:17).

King Solomon had it all and failed in so many ways but he found restoration in the arms of God. He then shared his own journey and tried to encourage others to avoid such traps in the books that he authored. His sin led to the kingdom being divided in the hands of his son.

CONCLUSION: Solomon was human just like all of us and everyone makes mistakes. Thankfully, if we genuinely repent, we serve a redeeming God whose grace and love are unmatched.

QUESTIONS:
1. What are the achievements of King Solomon?
2. Mention five (5) lessons from the life of King Solomon.

FURTHER READING: MON: 1Chron.22:9. TUE: 1Chron.22:10. WED: 1Kgs.4:32-33. THUR: Isa.54:5. FRI: Ps.16:7. SAT: Ps.32:8. SUN: Eccl.2:26.

ASSIGNMENT: Identify any five (5) possible problems of wealth.

OPEN HEAVEN 21 MAY 2022 MEMORIZE: And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine. Revelation 6:6

OPEN HEAVEN 21 MAY 2022 BIBLE READING REVELATION 6:5-6

5. And when he had opened the third seal, I heard the third beast say, Come and see. And I beheld, and lo a black horse; and he that sat on him had a pair of balances in his hand.

6. And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny; and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine.

OPEN HEAVEN 21 MAY 2022 MESSAGE

In the Bible reading for today, we see the third seal opened and a man on a black horse coming forth with a pair of balance in his hand.

Revelation 6:6 says: “And I heard a voice in the midst of the four beasts say, A measure of wheat for a penny, and three measures of barley for a penny”

At this time, as a result of the war we discussed yesterday, the economy of the whole world will be affected. Agriculture in particular will suffer because most of the men who would have cultivated crops and reared animals would have been drafted into the army.

Even where there is food, transporting it will be a problem so there will be famine all over the world. Bread will be weighed before it is sold. Food will be extremely expensive.

Revelation 6:6 further says: “and see thou hurt not the oil and the wine.” Scarce as food will be, luxury goods will not be touched; they will be very much available.

Alcoholic drinks that are consumed by the rich will remain but how will a poor and hungry person get money to buy whisky? Those who think that they are suffering now, yet are still living in sin have not seen anything yet.

Those who miss the rapture will experience extreme hunger. Even those that have the money will not find enough food to buy.

While we in heaven will be enjoying unlimited pleasures, singing and dancing, those on earth will be starving and wailing.

Any fellow who thinks that sin is sweet now should go on sinning; a time is coming when he will realise that sin is bitter. Choosing a life of holiness is the best decision you can ever make because it secures your future in heaven.

If you say something is too big for you to drop now in order to make heaven, wait until that time and see if that thing will even be relevant at all.

OPEN HEAVEN 21 MAY 2022 PRAYER POINT

Nothing will ever be big enough to make me miss heaven, in Jesus name.

OPEN HEAVEN 21 MAY 2022 HYMN

OPEN HEAVEN 21 MAY 2022 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: ESTHER 1:1-22, ESTHER 2:1-23, ESTHER 3:1-15, ESTHER 4:1-17

OPEN HEAVEN 22 MAY 2022 MEMORIZE: And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth. Revelation 6:8

OPEN HEAVEN 22 MAY 2022 BIBLE READING REVELATION 6:7-8

7. And when he had opened the fourth seal, I heard the voice of the fourth beast say, Come and see.

8. And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.

OPEN HEAVEN 22 MAY 2022 MESSAGE

If you think the three seals we have discussed in this series so far have been terrifying, you haven’t seen anything yet. There are still four more seals to be opened and studied.

According to the Bible, at the opening of the fourth seal, a pale horse would appear with Death sitting on it, hell following close behind. Death will have a field day after the rapture.

In fact, God Himself will allow it take one quarter of the whole earth. Hell will be following right behind it so that as the people are dying, he can be collecting them and putting them through an eternity of torment.

After they have suffered so much on earth, they will then go on to continue the suffering in hell. That is what people call from frying pan to fire.

I’m so glad I will not be here when all this is happening. I and my children-in-the-Lord will be having a beautiful fellowship with God and other saints in heaven.

Some of the people that death will take will be killed by the sword. Remember, a war will be going on at that time. Another set of people will be killed with hunger. That will be as a result of the scarcity of food in the whole world.

Yet another set will be killed by the beasts of the earth. This could either mean that the wild animals will start killing people or that diseases from animals will kill many people.

Of course, when there is hunger, people will eat all kinds of animals and these animals will have diseases in them that will be passed on to the human population.

The Corona virus pandemic that hit two years ago only killed a relatively tiny population of the world and the whole world trembled. Imagine what will happen when a quarter of the whole world is dying.

That is why, if you are sure of your own salvation, you should preach to others to be saved.

Why are you not preaching the gospel to them? Why are you not inviting them to Church meetings where you know that they will hear the word of God? Why are you staying silent, watching them head towards danger? I know the danger that is coming, so I have determined that I will not stop preaching the gospel.

I will go to the nooks and crannies of the world to warn everyone about this imminent danger. I will keep preaching the gospel and I will take as many people as I can along with me to heaven. What about you?

OPEN HEAVEN 22 MAY 2022 PRAYER POINT

Father, please don’t let me or anyone I know miss the rapture in Jesus name.

OPEN HEAVEN 22 MAY 2022 HYMN

OPEN HEAVEN 22 MAY 2022 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: Esther 5:1-14, ESTHER 6:1-14, ESTHER 7:1-10, ESTHER 8:1-17, ESTHER 9:1-32, ESTHER 10:1-3

OPEN HEAVEN 20 MAY 2022 MEMORIZE: And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword. Revelation 6:4

OPEN HEAVEN 20 MAY 2022 BIBLE READING REVELATION 6:3-4

3. And when he had opened the second seal, I heard the second beast say, Come and see.

4. And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword.

OPEN HEAVEN 20 MAY 2022 MESSAGE

After the Anti-Christ has arrived and has been crowned, the second seal will be opened. Now, remember that from yesterdays study, we saw that the whole world was happy with their new leader who seemed to be a promoter of peace.

However, when the second seal is opened, they will see the true colour of their leader. He will provoke war. At that time, all his diplomacy will be gone.

“When ye therefore shall see the abomination of desolation, spoken of by Daniel the prophet, stand in the holy place, (whoso readeth, let him understand:) Matthew 24:15”

The words of Daniel referred to by Jesus in the above passage are in Daniel 11:31: “And arms shall stand on his part, and they shall pollute the sanctuary of strength, and shall take away the daily sacrifice, and they shall place the abomination that maketh desolate.”

The arms that will be on his part are represented by the man on the red horse that will be released when the second seal is opened. Now the Anti-Christ will have the military at his fingertips.

Though he would have allowed the Israelites to rebuild their temple, he will sacrifice pigs on the altar of that temple. Anyone that knows Jewish law will know that Jews can never tolerate that.

War will break out! This will be the war of all wars. Some countries will support the Anti-Christ and some will be against him. I pity those who will be on earth at this time.

The war will be terrible, so terrible that Jesus warned thus: “Then let them which be in Judaea flee into the mountains: Let him which is on the housetop not come down to take any thing out of his house: Neither let him which is in the field return back to take his clothes. And woe unto them that are with child, and to them that give suck in those days! But pray ye that your flight be not in the winter, neither on the sabbath day: For then shall be great tribulation, such as was not since the beginning of the world to this time, no, nor ever shall be. Matthew 24:16-21” I pray you will not miss the rapture, in Jesus name.

OPEN HEAVEN 20 MAY 2022 KEY POINT

Let he who is wise stay away from sin.

OPEN HEAVEN 20 MAY 2022 HYMN

OPEN HEAVEN 20 MAY 2022 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: NEHEMIAH 12:1-47, NEHEMIAH 13:1-31

In our prayer series for this month, today, we’re sharing 3 simple but very effective ways to grow your prayer life. These tips seem too simple but when applied, they make a lot of difference.

1. STUDY YOUR BIBLE MORE

Prayer and Bible study work hand in hand. Doing one and leaving the other is robbing yourself of a wholesome Christian experience. A dedicated and diligent study of the Bible ushers you into a consistent prayer life. The more you read your Bible, the more you see reasons to pray.

Do you want to grow your prayer life? Study your Bible more.

Acts 6:4 KJV
But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word.

2. ATTEND YOUR CHURCH’S PRAYER MEETINGS

The prayer group in church is not for only a few set of people – the “prayer warriors”
Many Christians deceive themselves by thinking persistent prayer is only for some people in church. When in actual sense, it is for everyone.

In the Open Heavens Devotional for 18th May, our father, Pastor Adeboye shared about the God of Jacob who is a God that answers persistent prayers just like he did for Jacob.

When the prayer groups in church are scanty, people are robbed of the power and grace of God. If your prayer life is weak, leverage on the gathering of the saints who dedicate their time to pray by attending prayer meetings.

You should also catch up with our daily Prayers and Declarations posted on this site (RCCGONLINE.ORG)and be determined not to miss any day.

Proverbs 27:17 KJV
Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend.

3. WRITE DOWN PRAYERS AS THEY CROSS YOUR MIND

If you find yourself lacking what to pray about, keep a note pad where you write down the different prayers that cross your mind during the day. Prayers for your life, friends, colleagues, acquaintances, the church, your leaders, and more. When you go in to pray, go with this note and bring them before God. This way, you will always be eager to go to the place of prayer.

1 John 5:14&15

14 And this is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us:

15 And if we know that he hear us, whatsoever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we desired of him.

For more Articles like this and other impactful messages visit: RCCGONLINE.ORG

Beloved, we are glad you could join in today again, we look forward to your engagement everyday as always. Please, say these declarations in faith and believe God for a performance.

Note: These prayers are spiritual and can only be understood and fully enjoyed by God’s children. If you want to be blessed from these prayers, you must first, surrender your life to the Lord Jesus Christ, by saying this prayer:

“Lord Jesus, I come before You today with a broken and contrite heart full of repentance. Please, forgive me all my sins. Today, I surrender my life to You, I believe that Jesus is Lord and I confess it with my mouth. Jesus, come into my life and save my soul from eternal destruction in hellfire. In Jesus’ name, I pray.”

If you joined in that life-changing prayer! Kindly reach us today: [email protected] for guidance on how to grow in Christ.

Join today’s Devotion here: Open Heavens 19 May 2022

Today’s Prayer Points: Prayers points for Open Heavens 19 May 2022

Today’s Powerful Confession: I confess today No weapon that is formed against me shall prosper, but every tongue that rises against me in judgment is condemned instantly. I take every thought captive unto the obedience of Jesus Christ, casting down every imagination, and every high and lofty thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God in Jesus name. Amen Hallelujah! 

DAILY DECLARATION

Mighty one in battle, thank You for Your ever faithful hand at work in me, thank You for the blessings of this new day.

I decree and declare surely I shall give thanks to the name of the Lord always in Jesus name.

I decree and declare the Lord will stand by me and give me strength today in the name of Jesus.

I decree and declare, this new day is blessed for me and my household, in the mighty name of Jesus

I declare that my family and I continually live a life that is holy and surrendered to God and none of us will be left behind when the Lord comes in Jesus name.

I decree and declare I do not chase after shadows and temporary earthly things that will fade like grass. I hold on to Jesus and things that are of eternal value in Jesus name.

I decree and declare my family and I will not be in the company of the wicked and workers of iniquity in the name of Jesus.

I declare and declare I am empowered to endure the mockery and sarcasm that comes with living for God on earth now. So that I will enjoy the bliss and unexplainable joy that comes to everyone that will go with God on the last day in Jesus name.

I sanctify my eyes with the blood of Jesus and I decree and declare that I only behold good and godly things in Jesus name.

I decree and declare that I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection in Jesus name.

I decree and declare that I focus and set my mind on things above in Jesus Name.

I decree and declare that my life contributes to God’s kingdom and agenda in the name of Jesus.

Thank you Lord for everyone working on this platform (RCCGONLINE.ORG). Please Lord, perfect everything that concerns them and make them great in Jesus name.

Thank You Holy Spirit for all the testimonies and miracles coming through these prayers. May they be permanent in Jesus name.

Father, let everybody joining in to say the declarations all over the world experience great miracles as this month finally wraps up. May we have numerous testimonies in Jesus name.

Somebody shout Hallelujah!

See you tomorrow.