Happy New Month 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 3 April 2022

Powerful Declarations: Powerful Declarations For Today 3 April 2022

Today’s Powerful Confession: I confess today I have an attitude of praise. I am devoted to prayer and study of the word. I seek to know God and make him known. I will be blessed to be a blessing. My paths will be ordered by the Lord in Jesus name. Amen. Hallelujah!.

PRAYER POINTS

Lord, I worship you today for there is none like unto you. Be exalted in my life forever more in Jesus name.

Father, I ask for your forgiveness and mercy. Forgive my trespasses and show me mercy in Jesus name.

Father, help me to always apply your word to my life. As I daily read the open heavens devotional, let me not be a hearer alone but a doer of your word in Jesus name.

Father, as I say these prayers and declarations daily, let my life receive a performance in the name of Jesus.

Father, bless my family and help them to submit to you alone in the name of Jesus.

Father, preserve my family and I from evil. Exempt and immune us from the chaos going on in the world in Jesus mighty name.

Father, deliver us from wicked and unreasonable men in the name of Jesus.

Oh Lord let my enemies see your glory in me, and let shame cover them that said unto me, Where is the LORD your God? in Jesus mighty name.

Father, as they may be thinking of writing you off, arise as the Almighty and change my situation for the better in Jesus name!

Father I ask for the blessing of a (mention), I do not have it yet. But I believe that you will do it for me and you will do it speedily in the mighty name of Jesus.

Father, let me increase greatly on every side in Jesus name.

Oh Lord, help me not to write anybody off, including myself 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.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 2 APRIL 2022 MEMORIZE: Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour: 1 Peter 5:8

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 2 APRIL 2022 BIBLE READING EPHESIANS 6:10-14

10. Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.

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

12. For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places.

13. Wherefore take unto you the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to withstand in the evil day, and having done all, to stand.

14. Stand therefore, having your loins girt about with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;

Adults Version: Open Heaven 2 April 2022

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 2 APRIL 2022 MESSAGE

One attribute Satan possesses and uses to knock out children of God from the Heavenly race is patience. He doesn’t do anything in a hurry, he always plans ahead to get his victim by introducing sin to him/her little by little, in order to separate him/her from the Vine.

Just as little drops of water make a mighty ocean, little acts of sin become a mighty stumbling block to ones eternity. This is why you must be intentional and deliberate about your walk with God.

Have you started giving excuses for your spiritual decline? Do you now find it comfortable to watch TV shows that promote immorality? Are you now saying it doesn’t matter when confronted with the reality of sin? Is a little anger permitted in you now?.

Has your Bible study time decreased and social media time increased? If your answer to these questions is yes, you are drifting away little by little and you have to go back to your first love.

Never allow little sins to separate you from God. The results could be disastrous. My dear, keep making efforts to grow in faith.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 2 APRIL 2022 PRAYER POINT

Father, please give me the grace to do away with any sin hindering my spiritual growth.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 2 APRIL 2022 HYMN

ALL THINGS BRIGHT AND BEAUTIFUL

1. All things bright and beautiful,
All creatures great and small,
All things wise and wonderful,
The Lord God made them all.

2. Each little flower that opens,
Each little bird that sings,
He made their glowing colours,
He made their tiny wings.

3. The purple-headed mountain,
The river running by,
The sunset, and the morning
That brightens up the sky.

4. The cold wind in the winter,
The pleasant summer sun,
The ripe fruits in the garden,
He made them every one.

5. He gave us eyes to see them,
And lips that we might tell
How great is God Almighty,
Who has made all things well.

OPEN HEAVEN FOR TEENS 2 APRIL 2022 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: LUKE 8:23-56, JUDGES 8:1-35, JUDGES 9:1-57

Happy New Month 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 2 April 2022

Today’s Prayer Points: Prayers points for Open Heavens 2 April 2022

Today’s Powerful Confession: I confess today that My faith is active and prevails now! In the Name of Jesus, I walk in the light of my inheritance in Christ. I walk in power and grace, living in divine health and supernatural prosperity. I’m victorious evermore, because I live in and by the Word. in Jesus name. Amen. Hallelujah!.

DAILY DECLARATION

Everlasting king of Glory, I worship you today for you are God and there is none like you.

I decree and declare as a child of God that today is a blessed day in the name of Jesus.

I decree and declare that in this new month mercy speaks for me today and always in Jesus name.

I decree and declare that there is hope for me. There is hope for my marriage. There is hope for my family. There is hope for my business in Jesus name.

I decree and declare that it doesn’t matter how poor I am now, God is prospering me, in Jesus name.

Let every sickness disappear. No matter how hopeless the case, father turn 0% chance of survival to 100% healing in Jesus name. I decree that I am healed in Jesus name.

I decree and declare that in this month my life shall contribute to God’s kingdom and agenda in the name of Jesus.

I decree and declare it is by the Grace of God that I am what I am today.

I decree and declare I will not boast in the flesh. I will boast only in God in Jesus name.

I decree and declare I confidently laugh without fear of the future because my future is secure in Christ Jesus in Jesus name.

I decree and declare I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me in Jesus name.

I decree and declare I trust in the Lord with all my heart, I do not lean on my own understanding. In all my ways, I acknowledge God and He makes my path straight in Jesus name.

I decree and declare this month, I make exploits by the grace of God in Jesus name.

I decree and declare I will be supernaturally propelled by God’s grace to walk in personal victory, prosper in my relationships, and impact the world mightily for Him in Jesus name.

I decree and declare I will not lose heart today because I believe I will see the goodness of the Lord in the land of the living in Jesus name.

I decree and declare I receive an abundance of grace and the gift of righteousness. I reign in life through Jesus Christ in Jesus name.

Our father in heaven, bless your son and his entire household, Pastor E.A. Adeboye; renew his strength, power and anointing, in Jesus’ name.

Holy Spirit thank You for the intercessory team, thank You for Your power and presence in their midst. Help them to continue to communicate Your heart even through these prayers.

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

Somebody shout Hallelujah!

LESSON THIRTY-ONE (31)
TOPIC: THE CHRISTIAN ENTREPRENEUR

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
01. 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: Acts 16:14-15

[14] And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.

[15] And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.

MEMORY VERSE:
“Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men.”Proverbs 22:29 (NKJV).

INTRODUCTION: Entrepreneurship has been described as the capacity and willingness to develop, organise and manage a business venture along with any of its risks in order to make a profit.

Christian entrepreneurs are needed to live out a Christ-like ethic in the business world. The Bible has many examples of entrepreneurs who in their time exhibited godly characters. It is important to know what should characterise an ideal entrepreneur.

TEXT REVIEW:
Acts 16:14-15.
A. The Apostle Paul did recognise the acts of a generous business woman – Lydia.
i. She was an outstanding cloth merchant from Thyatira. V14a.
ii. She was ………………………………………..V14b.
iii. Her heart was ……………………………….V14c.
B. After the baptism of Lydia, she:
i. ………………………………………………………..V15a.
ii. …….…………………………………………………….V15b.

OUTLINES:
1. BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF ENTREPRENEURS
2. CHARACTERISTICS OF AN IDEAL ENTREPRENEUR

1. BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF ENTREPRENEURS

A. There are many biblical entrepreneurs within Scripture. For instance:
1. Abraham was a prosperous business man trading in livestock, silver and gold (Gen. 13:1-3).

2. Isaac was an outstanding farmer that grew mightier than a whole nation (Gen. 26:12-16).

3. Jacob was a creative livestock manager (Gen.30:31-43).

4. Elisha was a successful farmer before he was called into full time ministry (1Kgs. 19:19).

5. The Apostle Peter was a commercial fisherman. He was in partnership with his brother Andrew building a fishing business (Matt.4:18).

6. The Apostle Paul had a tent making business (Acts 18:3).

7. Lydia, the first convert to Christianity in Europe, was a self-employed merchant, selling purple – expensive clothing materials (Acts 16:14-15).

8. Job was a very industrious farmer. The livestock Job had in his enterprise would have allowed him to launch many business ventures (Job 1:2-3).

B. The epitome of biblical entrepreneurship is the Saviour of humanity, Jesus the Christ.
i. Jesus used his entrepreneurial passion in the social area of life (Acts 10:38). Today we call this area the “not-for-profit industry”.
ii. Jesus employed his purpose to transform humanity.
iii. Jesus was a change catalyst in the life-transformation industry.

CLASS ACTIVITY 1:
Students should mention some businesses they would like to start in order to create value for their communities.

2. CHARACTERISTICS OF AN IDEAL ENTREPRENEUR
1. Ability to recognise opportunity:

i. Entrepreneurs try their hands on opportunities that are by-passed to others. These opportunities may include:
a. Meeting the demand that is not currently met,
b. Pushing up a product that is much better than what is currently in the market,
c. Solving a problem or annoyance that consumers have.

ii. Entrepreneurs recognise opportunities where they are and they utilise them by producing products or rendering services that will fill the vacuum identified.

2. Desire for independence: One of the consistent characteristics of an entrepreneur is his desire for independence. What it means is that an entrepreneur would want to:
a. Work for himself/herself rather than work for others.
b. Take decisions on their own (Prov.18:1).

3. Self-confidence: There are two characteristics of an entrepreneur that lead him into having self-confidence (1Sam.17:32-37).

a. Self Motivation: Entrepreneurs set their own goals rather than having them set by their bosses. Since these goals are set by entrepreneurs, it means that they will be motivated to achieve those goals.

b. Self Discipline: Every entrepreneur should have self-discipline, if not, the business will fail. These are confident people who believe in what they are doing and believe that the job is worth doing.

4. Willingness to take risk: Any entrepreneur is a risk taker,
a. They take calculated risks whether formally or informally.

b. Mostly they take risk informally because they make calculation within their brain on what to buy, keep and sell later.

c. They equally try to figure out the probability of success of their business.

d. Once they are convinced that the probability of success is high, they will go into such business.

e. Entrepreneurs are not tired of trying. If they invest in a business and they fail, they can try again or venture into another business so that they can succeed (Prov.24:16; Eccl. 11:1).

5. Constantly learning: There is always something you do not know and something else that has just been discovered. Both are essential for entrepreneurs.
a. You cannot build a business around something you do not know about.

b. You cannot improve products and services using outdated methods.

c. Entrepreneurs are always on the prowl to learn more about what they do and what the competitors are working on.

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Students should mention some skills they have acquired or would like to acquire that could help them start up a business venture.

SUMMARY: Entrepreneurship is running your own business. There are biblical examples of entrepreneurs that Christians can emulate. It is equally important for Christian entrepreneurs to learn and imbibe the characteristics of an ideal entrepreneur

CONCLUSION: God wants His children to have dominion in the business world. Make up your mind to be a godly young entrepreneur.

EVALUATION:: Students should mention why some people are scared of becoming an entrepreneur.

CLOSING PRAYER: Father, please prosper the work of my hands.

ASSIGNMENT: Students should mention five (5) benefits of having one’s personal business.

Happy New Month 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 2 April 2022

Powerful Declarations: Powerful Declarations For Today 2 April 2022

Today’s Powerful Confession: I confess today that My faith is active and prevails now! In the Name of Jesus, I walk in the light of my inheritance in Christ. I walk in power and grace, living in divine health and supernatural prosperity. I’m victorious evermore, because I live in and by the Word. in Jesus name. Amen. Hallelujah!.

PRAYER POINTS

Thank you Jesus for your grace over my life. For the air I breathe. For waking me up this morning, and for everything you have given me power to do.

Jesus, forgive me for every time and instance that I have taken your grace for granted. Have mercy upon me in the name of Jesus.

Father, help me to always acknowledge your grace. May I always remember that it is by you that I am who I am in Jesus name.

Oh Lord, keep me away from pride. Help me to always understanding that you are the doer of all good things in Jesus name.

Oh Lord, as I go about this month, do not withdraw your grace from me in Jesus name.

Father, as I plant and water, let your grace come upon my efforts to cause great yield in the name of Jesus.

Oh Lord, I submit my life to your will and I agree with your plan for my life. Let your will be done in Jesus name.

Oh Lord let your counsel stand and let my life go according to your pleasure in Jesus name.

Father, help me to be a true believer in your Word and your precepts. Let me never antagonize your ways in Jesus name.

Father, as your Word is settled in heaven, let it be settled in my life in Jesus name.

Father, you are the ultimate controller of everything in heaven, on earth, and under the earth, cause everything on earth to align in my favor in Jesus name!

Father, please have Your way in my life and the world in general, 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-ONE (31)
TOPIC: THE CHRISTIAN ENTREPRENEUR

SUNDAY SCHOOL HYMN
01. 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?

MEMORY VERSE:
“Do you see a man who excels in his work? He will stand before kings; He will not stand before unknown men.”Proverbs 22:29 (NKJV).

BIBLE PASSAGE: ACTS 16:14-15

[14] And a certain woman named Lydia, a seller of purple, of the city of Thyatira, which worshipped God, heard us: whose heart the Lord opened, that she attended unto the things which were spoken of Paul.

[15] And when she was baptized, and her household, she besought us, saying, If ye have judged me to be faithful to the Lord, come into my house, and abide there. And she constrained us.

INTRODUCTION: Entrepreneurship has been described as the capacity and willingness to develop, organise and manage a business venture along with any of its risks in order to make a profit.

Christian entrepreneurs are needed to live out a Christ-like ethic in the business world. The Bible has many examples of entrepreneurs who in their time exhibited godly characters. It is important to know what should characterise an ideal entrepreneur.

OUTLINES:
1. BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF ENTREPRENEURS
2. CHARACTERISTICS OF AN IDEAL ENTREPRENEUR

1. BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF ENTREPRENEURS
There are many biblical entrepreneurs within scripture. For instance, Abraham was a prosperous business man trading in livestock, silver and gold (Gen.13:1-3).

Isaac was an outstanding farmer that grew mightier than a whole nation (Gen.26:12-16). Jacob was a creative livestock manager (Gen.30:31-43). Elisha was a successful farmer before he was called into full time ministry (1Kgs.19:19). The Apostle Peter was a commercial fisherman.

He was in partnership with his brother Andrew building a fishing business (Matt.4:18). The Apostle Paul had a tent making business (Acts 18:3.) Lydia, the first convert to Christianity in Europe, was a self-employed merchant, selling purple – expensive clothing materials (Acts 16:14-15).

Job was a very industrious farmer. The livestock Job had in his enterprise would have allowed him to launch many business ventures (Job 1:2-3).

The epitome of biblical entrepreneurship is the Saviour of humanity, Jesus the Christ. Jesus used his entrepreneurial passion in the social area of life (Acts 10:38).

Today, we call this area the “not-for-profit industries”. Jesus employed his purpose to transform humanity. Jesus was a change catalyst in the life-transformation industry.

2. CHARACTERISTICS OF AN IDEAL ENTREPRENEUR

1. Ability to recognise opportunity. Entrepreneurs try their hands on opportunities that are by-passed to others. These opportunities may include meeting the demand that is not currently met, pushing up a product that is much better than what is currently in the market and solving a problem or annoyance that consumers have. Entrepreneurs recognise opportunities where they are and they utilise them by producing products or rendering services that will fill the vacuum identified.

2. Desire for independence. One of the consistent characteristics of an entrepreneur is his desire for independence. What it means is that an entrepreneur would want to work for himself/herself rather than work for others. They want to take decisions on their own (Prov.18:1).

3. Self-confidence. There are two characteristics of an entrepreneur that lead him into having self-confidence (1Sam.17:32-37).

a. Self-motivation. Entrepreneurs set their own goals rather than having them set by their bosses. Since these goals are set by entrepreneurs, it means that they will be motivated to achieve those goals.

b. Self-discipline: Every entrepreneur should have self-discipline, if not, the business will fail. These are confident people who believe in what they are doing and believe that the job is worth doing.

4. Willingness to take risks. Any entrepreneur is a risk taker; they take calculated risks whether formally or informally. Mostly they take risk informally because they make calculation within their brain on what to buy, keep and sell later. They equally try to figure out the probability of success of their business. Once they are convinced that it is high, they will go into such business. Entrepreneurs are not tired of trying. If they invest in a business and they fail, they can try again or venture into another business so that they can succeed (Prov.24:16; Eccl.11:1).

5. Constantly learning. There is always something you do not know and something else that has just been discovered. Both are essential for entrepreneurs. You cannot build a business around something you do not know about, and you cannot improve products and services using outdated methods. Entrepreneurs are always on the prowl to learn more about what they do and what the competitors are working on.

CONCLUSION: God wants His children to have dominion in the business world. Make up your mind to be a godly young entrepreneur.

QUESTION:
1. Mention four (4) biblical examples of entrepreneurs and their respective occupation.
2. Mention four (4) characteristics of an ideal entrepreneur.

FURTHER READING: MON: Prov.22:29. TUE: Mark 1:16. WED: Luke 4:18. THURS: Prov.15:14. FRI: Eccl.8:1. SAT: Prov.18:1. SUN: 2Thess.3:6-10.

ASSIGNMENT: Students should mention five (5) benefits of having one’s personal business.

LESSON THIRTY-ONE (31)
TOPIC: HOLY “MATRI-MONEY” (PART 1)

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: Deuteronomy 28:1-13.

[1] And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth:

[2] And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God.

[3] Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field.

[4] Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep.

[5] Blessed shall be thy basket and thy store.

[6] Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out.

[7] The LORD shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face: they shall come out against thee one way, and flee before thee seven ways.

[8] The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

[9] The LORD shall establish thee an holy people unto himself, as he hath sworn unto thee, if thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, and walk in his ways.

[10] And all people of the earth shall see that thou art called by the name of the LORD; and they shall be afraid of thee.

[11] And the LORD shall make thee plenteous in goods, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy ground, in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers to give thee.

[12]The LORD shall open unto thee his good treasure, the heaven to give the rain unto thy land in his season, and to bless all the work of thine hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow.

[13] And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the LORD thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them:

MEMORY VERSE:
“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 sorrows.” 1 Timothy 6:10.

INTRODUCTION: Money is the major means of catering for our everyday needs and it is capable of meeting virtually all physical needs. One major reason couples get divorce is financial disagreement. This is very difficult to believe until one begins to feel the pool of financial tension in the home.

Usually, the conflict may not appear to be directly about money but a closer look would reveal that the fight is about priorities, values, dreams, and trusts which are all linked with finances. The Bible cautions us about our attitude towards money. 1 Tim.6:10

TEXT REVIEW: Deuteronomy 28:1-13.
The Almighty God places high premium on absolute obedience and observance to His commandments as one of the pre-conditions to attract several blessings. (Deut. 28:1-2).
ACTIVITY: Teacher should list any five (5) blessings which God promises those who fulfil the conditions.
i. ————————————————————
ii. ————————————————————
iii. ————————————————————
iv. ————————————————————
v. ————————————————————
NOTE: Teacher should apply the points to their teaching.

OUTLINES:
1. OURS VERSUS YOURS AND MINE
2. HONESTY AND TRUST

1. OURS VERSUS YOURS AND MINE
Question 1: Who owns the spouse money (husband or wife)? Teacher should allow students to respond.
Teacher should give and explain the following answers:
i. God own all riches. (Haggai 2:8).
ii. God wants his children to prosper. (3John 2; Ps.1:3).
iii. God gives his children power to get wealth. (Deut.8:18; Isa.45:3).

Question 2: Teacher should ask students this question. “Should husband or wife be the sole owner of money in marriage”?
Answer: No.

Question 3: Why and how?
Answer: The spouse’s money belongs to the spouses (i.e. husband and wife) and the children.
Question 4: Why?
Answers: i. Because the husband and wife now becomes one flesh and nothing including money should separate them. (Matt.19:4-6; Eph.5:29-32; Gen.2:4).
ii. Married people have expanded responsibilities.
iii. Financial policy should therefore change from “mine” to “ours”.

CLASS ACTIVITY 1: Why do you think some men or women take the ownership of money in their families?

2. HONESTY AND TRUST
Teacher should explain the following points:
i. Trust and honesty are essential in family finances. (1Cor.13:7).
ii. There should be absolute truth on the spouse’s income and expenditure. (Col. 3:9).
iii. Whichever choice of account chosen (whether joint or separate) openness and sincerity are essential. (Matt.19:5-6).

CLASS ACTIVITY 2: Why do you think spouse withholds spending information from the partner?

SUMMARY: What God has joined together, money should not put asunder.

CONCLUSION: Money, if rightly handled and managed in marriage, will act as a lubricant to the overall success of the marriage. However, the mishandling or mismanagement of money -which is a principal evil (1Tim.6:10), will wreck the home and could be the root of a broken marriage.

EVALUATION:
i. Who should own the family money?
ii. Mention two essential ingredients of financial success in marriage.

CLOSING PRAYER: Almighty Father, please let spouses embrace honesty and trust in managing their financial resources in Jesus’ name.

ASSIGNMENT: Mention five (5) reasons some couples fight because of money.

LESSON THIRTY ONE (31)
TOPIC: THE ROLE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT IN A LOCKDOWN.

HOUSE FELLOWSHIP ANTHEM
1. I love this family of God,
So closely knitted into one,
They have taken me into their a rms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family

2. I bless this family of God,
So greatly prospered by the Lord,
They have taken me into their arms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family

3. I know this family of God,
So deeply rooted in the word,
They have taken me into their arms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family

4. I see this family of God,
So highly lifted above all,
They have taken me into their arms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family

5. Come, join this family of God,
So highly favoured by the Lord,
They have taken me into their arms
And am so glad to be
A part of this great family.

OPENING PRAYER: Father, let your Holy Spirit dwell in me.

MEMORY VERSE: “The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.” 2 Samuel 23:2

BIBLE TEXT: 2 Samuel 23:1-14

1. Now these be the last words of David. David the son of Jesse said, and the man who was raised up on high, the anointed of the God of Jacob, and the sweet psalmist of Israel, said,

2. The Spirit of the LORD spake by me, and his word was in my tongue.

3. The God of Israel said, the Rock of Israel spake to me, He that ruleth over men must be just, ruling in the fear of God.

4. And he shall be as the light of the morning, when the sun riseth, even a morning without clouds; as the tender grass springing out of the earth by clear shining after rain.

5. Although my house be not so with God; yet he hath made with me an everlasting covenant, ordered in all things, and sure: for this is all my salvation, and all my desire, although he make it not to grow.

6. But the sons of Belial shall be all of them as thorns thrust away, because they cannot be taken with hands:

7. But the man that shall touch them must be fenced with iron and the staff of a spear; and they shall be utterly burned with fire in the same place.

8. These be the names of the mighty men whom David had: The Tachmonite that sat in the seat, chief among the captains; the same was Adino the Eznite: he lift up his spear against eight hundred, whom he slew at one time.

9. And after him was Eleazar the son of Dodo the Ahohite, one of the three mighty men with David, when they defied the Philistines that were there gathered together to battle, and the men of Israel were gone away:

10. He arose, and smote the Philistines until his hand was weary, and his hand clave unto the sword: and the LORD wrought a great victory that day; and the people returned after him only to spoil.

11. And after him was Shammah the son of Agee the Hararite. And the Philistines were gathered together into a troop, where was a piece of ground full of lentiles: and the people fled from the Philistines.

12. But he stood in the midst of the ground, and defended it, and slew the Philistines: and the LORD wrought a great victory.

13. And three of the thirty chief went down, and came to David in the harvest time unto the cave of Adullam: and the troop of the Philistines pitched in the valley of Rephaim.

14. And David was then in an hold, and the garrison of the Philistines was then in Beth-lehem.

LESSON INTRODUCTION: The Holy Spirit is the third person in the Trinity. God the father being the first, God the Son – Jesus Christ the second, In the old testament days the Holy Spirit empowered specific individuals/persons only for specific purpose.

But after Jesus physically ascended into heavens he sent his spiritual presence, The Holy Spirit to all believers so that He will be among men on earth including during lockdown situations. The Holy Spirit first became officially available to his disciples and other believers at Pentecost, Act 2:1-4,14-21.

TEXT REVIEW: 2 SAMUEL 23:1-14

i. As a believer we need to have a close relationship with the Holy Spirit in this lockdown season.

ii. The Holy Spirit helps when we are in terms of situation in this lockdown season.

LESSON OUTLINES:
The Holy Spirit is the sure anchor for lockdown situations, this is why the last moment with His Disciples, the Lord Jesus mentioned the Inevitable roles of the Holy Spirit, when He must Have left.

John 16:1-16, certain things would happen
a. He warned them about further Persecution
b. He told them where He was going.
c. He assured them, they would not be left alone but that the Holy Spirit would come;

HENCE THE HOLY SPIRIT

1. Knows what lies ahead in a lockdown

2. He will also use the Holy Spirit to encourage our faith in a lockdown and not to be shaken or destroyed.

3. Holy Spirit will also give us guardiance and ability to understand the situation.

4. Holy Spirit is also the only Comforter in times of lockdown.

5. The Holy Spirit gives grace to overcome lockdown situations.

ACTIVITY: Discuss the Role of Holy Spirit to you during the Lockdown?

SUMMARY: Holy Spirit build over faith in a lockdown.

CONCLUSION: The role of the Holy Spirit in a lockdown situation cannot be over emphasised, this is why every Christian must learn and apply the ways of the Holy Spirit. The Spirit filled life will always overcome any lockdown situation because Christ has overcome the word and he is greater than all lockdown powers put together.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Father thank you for the gift of the Holy Spirit without which we are empty.

2. Lord in heaven please release the Holy Spirit to give us understanding of every lockdown.

3. Father, help your church to always glorify Christ in their lockdown

4. Father, take away the Spirit of grumbling and murmuring from me in this Lockdown situation.

5. Father, please help me to always enquire from the Holy Spirit on how to overcome every Lockdown.

GOLDEN DIET FOR THE WEEK
MONDAY: Find ways to be cheerful and laugh away that lockdown. Proverb 15:13,17-22.

TUESDAY: Trust in the Holy Spirit to help you beat the lockdown today. Judges 3:10

WEDNESDAY:Make sure lockdown does not make you sin against the Holy Spirit. Matt.21:31-32.

THURSDAY: Wait on the Holy Spirit to open your mind on the lockdown. Luke 24:4

FRIDAY: The Holy Spirit has the answer to your New life. John 3:5-8

SATURDAY: Don’t let a lockdown make you lose your vision and focus, it is a transition.

SUNDAY: You can navigate the lockdown through the Holy Spirit, you are coming out stronger in Jesus Name.

LESSON THIRTY-ONE (31)
TOPIC: HOLY “MATRI-MONEY” (PART 1)

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?

MEMORY VERSE:
“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 sorrows.” 1 Timothy 6:10.

BIBLE PASSAGE: Deuteronomy 28:1-13.

[1] And it shall come to pass, if thou shalt hearken diligently unto the voice of the LORD thy God, to observe and to do all his commandments which I command thee this day, that the LORD thy God will set thee on high above all nations of the earth:

[2] And all these blessings shall come on thee, and overtake thee, if thou shalt hearken unto the voice of the LORD thy God.

[3] Blessed shalt thou be in the city, and blessed shalt thou be in the field.

[4] Blessed shall be the fruit of thy body, and the fruit of thy ground, and the fruit of thy cattle, the increase of thy kine, and the flocks of thy sheep.

[5] Blessed shall be thy basket and thy store.

[6] Blessed shalt thou be when thou comest in, and blessed shalt thou be when thou goest out.

[7] The LORD shall cause thine enemies that rise up against thee to be smitten before thy face: they shall come out against thee one way, and flee before thee seven ways.

[8] The LORD shall command the blessing upon thee in thy storehouses, and in all that thou settest thine hand unto; and he shall bless thee in the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee.

[9] The LORD shall establish thee an holy people unto himself, as he hath sworn unto thee, if thou shalt keep the commandments of the LORD thy God, and walk in his ways.

[10] And all people of the earth shall see that thou art called by the name of the LORD; and they shall be afraid of thee.

[11] And the LORD shall make thee plenteous in goods, in the fruit of thy body, and in the fruit of thy cattle, and in the fruit of thy ground, in the land which the LORD sware unto thy fathers to give thee.

[12] The LORD shall open unto thee his good treasure, the heaven to give the rain unto thy land in his season, and to bless all the work of thine hand: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, and thou shalt not borrow.

[13] And the LORD shall make thee the head, and not the tail; and thou shalt be above only, and thou shalt not be beneath; if that thou hearken unto the commandments of the LORD thy God, which I command thee this day, to observe and to do them:

INTRODUCTION: Money is the major means of catering for our everyday needs and it is capable of meeting virtually all physical needs. One major reason couples get divorce is financial disagreement. This is very difficult to believe until one begins to feel the pool of financial tension in the home.

Usually, the conflict may not appear to be directly about money but a closer look would reveal that the fight is about priorities, values, dreams, and trusts which are all linked with finances. The Bible cautions us about our attitude towards money. 1 Tim.6:10.

OUTLINES:
1. OURS VERSUS YOURS AND MINE
2. HONESTY AND TRUST

1. OURS VERSUS YOURS AND MINE
God owns all riches (Hag.2:8). It is His desire that His children prosper (3Jn.2; Ps.1:3). He gives us the power to get wealth (Deut.8:18; Isa.45:3). Money in marriage should not be individually owned.

Whatever God has joined together, money should not separate (Matt.19:4-6; Eph.5:29-32). Whatever the husband earns belongs to the wife. Likewise, what the wife has belongs to the husband. This is because both husband and wife are one flesh (Eph.5:31; Gen.2:24).

In marriage, the financial policy or principle should be entirely different from when one is single. There are new financial demands apart from providing for two instead of one. One’s order of priority in terms of needs would change. Therefore, in Christian marriage, money should no longer be YOURS AND MINE BUT OURS.

2. HONESTY AND TRUST
Financial success in marriage demands honesty and total trust between the two spouses (1Cor.13:7). There should be no lies about income and expenses (Col.3:9) or withholding of spending information.

For some, shared bank account and pay cheque remove doubt and encourages mutual trust. For others, separate accounts with openness and sincerity, works (Matt.19:5-6). What is important, irrespective of the class of account couples decide to adopt, is to relate with one another in honesty, trust and understanding.

CONCLUSION

Money, if rightly handled and managed in marriage, will act as a lubricant to the overall success of the marriage. However, the mishandling or mismanagement of money which is a principal evil (1Tim.6:10), will wreck the home and could be the root of a broken marriage.

QUESTION
1. Who is the key to financial prosperity in marriage?
2. Who is the key to financial prosperity in marriage?

FURTHER READING:
MON: Matt.19:6. TUE: 1 Tim.4:1. WED: Rom.13:9. THUR: 1 John 1:6. FRI: Rev.21:8. SAT: James 5:12. SUN: Ex.23:2.

ASSIGNMENT:
Mention five (5) reasons some couples fight because of money.

OPEN HEAVEN 3 APRIL 2022 SUNDAY: DON’T WRITE YOURSELF OFF

OPEN HEAVEN 3 APRIL 2022 MEMORIZE: Though thy beginning was small, yet thy latter end should greatly increase. Job 8:7

OPEN HEAVEN 3 APRIL 2022 BIBLE READING MICAH 7:7-10

7. Therefore I will look unto the LORD; I will wait for the God of my salvation: my God will hear me.

8. Rejoice not against me, O mine enemy: when I fall, I shall arise; when I sit in darkness, the LORD shall be a light unto me.

9. I will bear the indignation of the LORD, because I have sinned against him, until he plead my cause, and execute judgment for me: he will bring me forth to the light, and I shall behold his righteousness.

10. Then she that is mine enemy shall see it, and shame shall cover her which said unto me, Where is the LORD thy God? mine eyes shall behold her: now shall she be trodden down as the mire of the streets.

OPEN HEAVEN 3 APRIL 2022 MESSAGE

In Genesis 16:4, after Sarah’s maid had become pregnant for Abraham, she began to mock Sarah. She mocked Sarah because she left God out of the calculation.

Though Sarah’s case looked impossible at the time, before long, she was carrying her own baby too. No matter how desperate your situation may be, nobody has the right to write you off yet.

Just as they may be thinking of writing you off, the Almighty God will arise and change your situation for the better.

Someone once preached a message about the power of yet. He encouraged his congregation that whenever they want to answer a question that seems embarrassing, they should remember to add the word yet.

For example, if you are marriageable but not yet married, whenever you are asked, Are you married? your answer should be, I am not married YET. If you are asked, Do you have a car? when you don’t have one, simply respond I don’t have a car YET.

This preacher went on to say that when you add the word yet to your answer, you are asserting that the way things are now is not the same way they would be in the future. You are saying, in essence, Don’t write me off; you just wait and see, my miracle will soon arrive.

Beyond adding the word yet when answering seemingly embarrassing questions, you must believe it yourself. You must ensure that you are not writing yourself off. You must ensure that you are seeing yourself going higher and not remaining in that situation.

Ecclesiastes 9:4 tells us that as long as you are alive, there is hope. If God has kept you alive up to this moment, then He must have a great plan for you.

Revelation 3:7 says that He has the key of David, so whatever He opens is opened and whatever He shuts is shut. He has not written you off, so no matter what anybody thinks, you will be great.

I remember when things were very tough for my family. My wife and I used to share just one small piece of ponmo (cow hide) to go with our meals, as it was the cheapest kind of meat. I would tell her back then, Darling, things will not always be like this, you know? Our tomorrow will be alright.

Today, by the special grace of God, if we want to eat one cow per day, my God will provide it. Say to yourself, Things will get better. My tomorrow will be alright, in the mighty name of Jesus.

OPEN HEAVEN 3 APRIL 2022 KEY POINT

Your tomorrow will be alright.

Thank you for reading today’s devotional Beloved.

Make the decision to be a contributor to the advancement of God’s Kingdom in one way or another. Live your life daily mindful of the purposes and plan of God.

Kindly purchase your own hard copy version of the Open Heavens devotional. You can buy it for your friends too as a potent evangelism tool.

God bless you, as you sow, into the book ministry of Pastor E.A. Adeboye in Jesus’ name.

FROM THE TEAM: Thank you for reading today’s OPEN HEAVEN 3 APRIL 2022, written by Pastor E. A. Adeboye. Kindly share with someone on Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and other social media platforms using the social buttons at the beginning or scroll to the end of this post. Have a good day! #RemainRapturable

OPEN HEAVEN 3 APRIL 2022 HYMN

NEARER MY GOD TO THEE

1. Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer to Thee;
E’ en though it be a cross
That raiseth me,
Still all my song shall be
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer to Thee.

2. Though, like a wanderer
The sun gone down,
Darkness comes over me,
My rest a stone;
Yet in my dreams I’d be
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer to Thee.

3. There let me see the sight,
An open heaven;
All that thou sendest me,
In mercy given;
Angles to beckon me
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer, my God, to Thee
Nearer to Thee

4. Then, with my walking thoughts
Bright with Thy praise,
Out of my stony griefs
Bethel I’ll raise,
So by my woes to be
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer, my God, to Thee,
Nearer to Thee

5. Or if on joyful wing
Cleaving the sky
Sun, moon, and stars forgot,
Upwards I fly,
Still all my song shall be,
Nearer my God to Thee,
Nearer my God to Thee,
Nearer to Thee!

OPEN HEAVEN 3 APRIL 2022 BIBLE READING IN ONE YEAR: 2 SAMUEL 7:1-29, 2 SAMUEL 8:1-18, 2 SAMUEL 9:1-13, 2 SAMUEL 10:1-19