Brighter Life Ministry

Luke  12:15 And he said unto them, Take heed, and beware of covetousness: for a man's life consisteth not in the abundance of the things which he possesseth. Covetousness, often referred to as 'the root of sin,' originates in the heart's desire to sin before manifesting in actions. While it might not appear as severe as outward sins, it's incredibly harmful, as it gives rise to various other sins. It emerges when we desire something belonging to someone else and wish to possess it instead. Today, covetousness poses a significant issue in society, even prophesied as a sin of the last days. It's prevalent in churches and among Christians, revealing the selfish motivation behind it. Self-centeredness drives this sin, stemming from a selfish heart. Covetousness also results from misunderstanding the spiritual importance of life, as seen in Luke 12:15. The parable following this verse demonstrates the folly of materialism and the loss of sight of eternal life. The da...

John  17:17 Sanctify them through thy truth: thy word is truth. Jesus emphasizes the significance of God's Word as the ultimate source of truth. In a world filled with shifting opinions, conflicting ideologies, and changing circumstances, the Word of God remains an unchanging foundation.  It provides us with timeless principles and insights that guide us on the path of righteousness and wisdom. "Thy word is truth" reminds us that God's Word is not only a collection of historical records and moral teachings, but it is a living and powerful force that has the ability to transform our lives.  As we immerse ourselves in the Scriptures, we encounter the very heart and mind of God. Through its pages, we learn about His character, His plan for humanity, and His deep love for us. The phrase also speaks to the authenticity and reliability of God's Word. In a world where truth is often subjective and elusive, we can find unwavering certainty in the Scriptures. The Bible is ...

Proverbs  4:20 My son, attend to my words; incline thine ear unto my sayings. Knowledge is not mere accumulation of facts, but rather the understanding and application of those facts. Just as a tree is known by its fruit, knowledge is known by its outcomes.  In the book of Proverbs, it is written, "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge" (Proverbs 1:7). This fear is not one of trembling, but rather a profound reverence that leads to wisdom. As we navigate the vast sea of information, it is crucial that we exercise discernment. True knowledge guides us to discern between right and wrong, just and unjust. It empowers us to make informed decisions that align with our values and beliefs. Yet, knowledge alone is not enough. The Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Corinthians 8:1, "Knowledge puffs up, but love builds up." Our knowledge should not be a source of pride, but a wellspring of humility. When we couple knowledge with compassion, empathy, and kindness, we demonst...

1 John  5:4 For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world: and this is the victory that overcometh the world, even our faith. To be "born of God" is to experience a spiritual rebirth, a regeneration of our hearts and souls. This is not a mere physical birth, but a spiritual transformation that occurs when we accept Jesus Christ as our Saviour and allow the Holy Spirit to work within us.  It is through this rebirth that we become part of God's family, His children, and heirs to His promises. John tells us that when we are born of God, we gain the ability to overcome the world. This doesn't mean that we will be exempt from difficulties, trials, or tribulations. Instead, it means that our perspective changes.  Our priorities shift from worldly pursuits to eternal truths. Our desires align with God's will, and our faith becomes the anchor that sustains us through life's storms. The victory that overcomes the world is our faith. This faith is not mere intellec...

Matthew  12:43 When the unclean spirit is gone out of a man, he walketh through dry places, seeking rest, and findeth none.  12:44 Then he saith, I will return into my house from whence I came out; and when he is come, he findeth it empty, swept, and garnished.  12:45 Then goeth he, and taketh with himself seven other spirits more wicked than himself, and they enter in and dwell there: and the last state of that man is worse than the first. Even so shall it be also unto this wicked generation. Jesus uses a parable to illustrate the reality of spiritual warfare. He describes an unclean spirit that is cast out of a person. However, this spirit does not disappear; it seeks to return to the place it was once evicted from. This highlights the fact that when we make efforts to rid ourselves of negative influences or sinful behaviours, the enemy doesn't give up easily. We must remain watchful and prayerful, recognizing that the battle continues. The Empty House: Consider th...

1 Corinthians  15:33 Be not deceived: evil communications corrupt good manners. In a world saturated with various forms of communication, it's easy to underestimate the impact it can have on our lives. Just as a small spark can ignite a massive fire, so can the wrong communication ignite destructive influences within us. We are called to discern and evaluate the relationships we cultivate and the conversations we participate in. The apostle Paul's admonition to "run from evil communication" challenges us to prioritize what we allow into our hearts and minds. We must recognize that our associations shape our attitudes, beliefs, and actions.  While it's essential to be a light in the world and show compassion to all, we must also remember that we are susceptible to being influenced by negative ideas and attitudes. When we surround ourselves with those who speak negatively, spread gossip, or engage in unwholesome discussions, we risk compromising our own integrity an...

Ephesians  6:10 Finally, my brethren, be strong in the Lord, and in the power of his might.  6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. Through the spirit of God, Apostle Paul implores us to find our strength in the Lord and to equip ourselves with the spiritual armor that God provides.  He reminds us that our battles are not merely physical, but rather spiritual in nature. The enemies we face are not of this world, but are forces of darkness and evil that seek to undermine our faith and draw us away from God's presence. To "be strong in the Lord" means relying on His strength, guidance, and power. It's a call to lean on His wisdom, love, and grace as we navigate the challenges of life. It's an invitation to tap into His might, knowing that in our own strength, we are vulnerable, but in His strength, we are invincible. Paul's imagery of the "full armour of God" underscores the importance of spiri...

Proverbs  4:23 Keep thy heart with all diligence; for out of it are the issues of life. King Solomon imparts a profound lesson that resonates across time and generations. He urges us to guard our hearts with utmost care, to be diligent in protecting the inner core of our being.  Our hearts are not merely the physical organ that pumps blood, but the seat of our emotions, thoughts, and desires. They shape our decisions, actions, and ultimately, the path our lives take. The word "keep" signifies an active and intentional effort. It's not enough to simply let life happen to us; we are called to actively guard against negative influences that may infiltrate our hearts.  The world around us bombards us with distractions, temptations, and negative influences. It's our responsibility to filter what enters our hearts, allowing only that which uplifts, inspires, and aligns with our values. Why is this important? Because "out of [the heart] are the issues of life." Our...

Proverbs  12:15 The way of a fool is right in his own eyes: but he that hearkeneth unto counsel is wise.  12:16 A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame.  12:17 He that speaketh truth sheweth forth righteousness: but a false witness deceit. Being foolish mean having or showing a lack of good sense, judgment, or discretion.  The proverb  above  reminds us of the importance of humility, discernment, and gracious speech in our lives. v15. Many are times we  have encountered individuals who, consumed by their pride, refuse to acknowledge the counsel of others.  A foolish person relies solely on their own understanding, disregarding the valuable insights that those around them may offer. This verse challenges us to adopt the humility necessary to accept advice and acknowledge our limitations. Verse 16 continues, "A fool's wrath is presently known: but a prudent man covereth shame." Here we are reminded that a fool's anger is ...

Isaiah  49:24 Shall the prey be taken from the mighty, or the lawful captive delivered?  49:25 But thus saith the LORD, Even the captives of the mighty shall be taken away, and the prey of the terrible shall be delivered: for I will contend with him that contendeth with thee, and I will save thy children. Isaiah, often referred to as the prophet of hope, paints a vivid picture of a people who find themselves ensnared by the grip of the mighty.  Just as captives languish in darkness and despair, we too face challenges, doubts, and struggles that seem insurmountable. Yet, in the midst of our trials, we are reassured that the God we serve is mightier still. God  pledges to contend with those who contend against us, to save our children, and to make our oppressors taste the bitterness of their own devices. This promise is not simply a declaration of victory, but a testament to the lengths to which God will go to protect and rescue His beloved.  It is a powerful remi...

Proverbs  27:17 Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend. This proverb is  profound, and we are reminded of the power of relationships and the significance of mutual growth. Just as iron sharpens iron, our interactions with others can refine and elevate us.  Just as blades become sharper when they rub against each other, so do our lives become more purposeful and impactful when we engage in meaningful connections. In our journey of faith, we often find ourselves surrounded by people who challenge us, who inspire us, and who encourage us to become better versions of ourselves. These people are the "iron" in our lives. They might be friends, family members, mentors, or fellow believers who walk alongside us. The verse also emphasizes the role we play in sharpening one another. Just as a person hones the edge of their friend's blade, we have the responsibility to uplift and support those around us.  Our words, actions, and attitudes should...

Hosea  4:6 My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge: because thou hast rejected knowledge, I will also reject thee, that thou shalt be no priest to me: seeing thou hast forgotten the law of thy God, I will also forget thy children. In the days of Hosea the prophet, there was no truth in the land, there was no faithfulness to the will of God. There was no mercy, and thus the society of Israel had digressed unit an unloving society in which there was no compassion for one another.  Each one was concerned only for himself. There was no knowledge, or communion with God. The people were ignorant of the law of God, and thus created social morals after their own desires.     The opening words of the verse, "My people are destroyed," beckon us to recognize the potential consequences of living without the necessary knowledge.  This call serves as a reminder that God desires His people to be equipped with wisdom, understanding, and discernment. Knowledge is a di...

Leviticus  26:4 Then I will give you rain in due season, and the land shall yield her increase, and the trees of the field shall yield their fruit. Sometimes, we often find ourselves seeking instant gratification and quick results. But this passage teaches us the importance of patience and trust in the Lord's timing. Just as rain comes at its appointed time, so do the blessings that God has in store for us. Throughout the Bible, we see instances where waiting on God's timing led to miraculous outcomes. Abraham and Sarah waited for the birth of Isaac, and their faithfulness was rewarded.  Joseph endured years of trials, only to become a ruler in Egypt. And in the New Testament, we see the story of the prodigal son, who had to wait for the moment of restoration. The lesson is clear: our lives are subject to seasons, both spiritually and temporally. Just as spring follows winter, and day follows night, our lives have moments of growth and times of challenges.  It's during th...

Proverbs  13:20 He that walketh with wise men shall be wise: but a companion of fools shall be destroyed. Imagine for a moment that our lives are a journey, and the people we surround ourselves with are our fellow travelers. Just as a traveler must choose their companions wisely to reach their destination safely and successfully, we too must select our companions thoughtfully on the journey of life.  The verse tells us that walking with the wise leads to wisdom. When we surround ourselves with individuals who are wise, knowledgeable, and prudent, their influence seeps into our lives.  We learn from their experiences, gain insights from their perspectives, and adopt their values. As a result, we become wiser, more discerning, and better equipped to navigate the challenges life throws at us. On the other hand, the verse warns us against being companions of fools. Fools are not necessarily people lacking intelligence, but those who lack moral and ethical understanding. ...

Luke  15:11 And he said, A certain man had two sons:  15:12 And the younger of them said to his father, Father, give me the portion of goods that falleth to me. And he divided unto them his living.  15:13 And not many days after the younger son gathered all together, and took his journey into a far country, and there wasted his substance with riotous living.  The parable of the Prodigal Son is a timeless story of forgiveness, redemption, and the boundless love of our Heavenly Father.     We read a young man who, driven by his impulsive desires, asked his father for his share of the inheritance prematurely. In doing so, he effectively rejected the loving guidance of his father and sought his own way.  This echoes the choices we sometimes make in life, turning away from God's wisdom and pursuing fleeting pleasures. Just as the prodigal son squandered his inheritance, we often squander the blessings that God has bestowed upon us.    The jou...

Genesis  1:26 And God said, Let us make man in our image, after our likeness: and let them have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over the cattle, and over all the earth, and over every creeping thing that creepeth upon the earth. The word "dominion" in this context does not signify reckless exploitation or tyrannical control. Rather, it calls for stewardship, care, and respect for the created world. As bearers of the divine image, we are entrusted with the task of wisely managing the earth and all its inhabitants. This dominion is a partnership with God, a calling to mirror His character in how we treat the natural world. Just as God's dominion is marked by love, justice, and providence, so should ours be.  We are called to nurture and protect the delicate balance of ecosystems, to be mindful of the impact our choices have on the environment, and to act as responsible caretakers of all that God has made. In our dominion, we also find pu...

Exodus  2:23 And it came to pass in process of time, that the king of Egypt died: and the children of Israel sighed by reason of the bondage, and they cried, and their cry came up unto God by reason of the bondage.  2:24 And God heard their groaning, and God remembered his covenant with Abraham, with Isaac, and with Jacob.  2:25 And God looked upon the children of Israel, and God had respect unto them. The Israelites were oppressed, burdened by slavery, and their cries for help reached the ears of the Almighty. God's response was not delayed, for He is a God who hears the cries of His people.  He remembered His covenant—a sacred promise He made to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. This shows us that our God is a God who keeps His promises, who remains steadfast even in the darkest of times. In our lives, we often face challenges, difficulties, and trials that might make us feel abandoned or forgotten. But just as God heard the Israelites in their distress, He hears us too. ...

Luke  15:21 And the son said unto him, Father, I have sinned against heaven, and in thy sight, and am no more worthy to be called thy son.  15:22 But the father said to his servants, Bring forth the best robe, and put it on him; and put a ring on his hand, and shoes on his feet: In this scripture, we witness the parable of the prodigal son, a story of a young man who had squandered his inheritance in reckless living. Realising the consequences of his actions, he returns to his father's house, humbled and broken.  As he approaches, his father runs to him, embraces him, and orders a robe, a ring, and sandals to be placed on him. This act of forgiveness and restoration symbolises  the boundless grace of our Heavenly Father. Like the prodigal son, we too often find ourselves straying away from the path of righteousness. Our actions and choices lead us astray, causing pain to ourselves and others.  But the beauty of this story lies in the realization that our Heavenl...

1 Timothy  4:1  Now the Spirit speaketh expressly, that in the latter times some shall depart from the faith, giving heed to seducing spirits, and doctrines of devils;  4:2 Speaking lies in hypocrisy; having their conscience seared with a hot iron;  4:3 Forbidding to marry, and commanding to abstain from meats, which God hath created to be received with thanksgiving of them which believe and know the truth. Apostle Paul reminded us that as time progresses, there will be a temptation for some to turn away from the faith. Deceiving spirits and false doctrines will attempt to sway believers, leading them astray from the path of truth and righteousness. This is a stark reminder that our faith is not immune to challenges, even as we live in the latter days. The passage also warns about individuals who will speak lies in hypocrisy, those who mask their intentions and twist the truth to serve their own purposes.  This should urge us to be vigilant, discerning, and root...

Jeremiah  51:20 Thou art my battle axe and weapons of war: for with thee will I break in pieces the nations, and with thee will I destroy kingdoms; In the verse above, we are reminded of our identity and purpose as followers of God. We are likened to a battle axe and weapons of war, instruments of divine power that God uses to bring about His purpose and will.  Just as a battle axe is designed to break through barriers and cut down obstacles, we too are called to stand against the forces of darkness and break through the challenges that stand in the way of righteousness. In a world filled with spiritual battles, moral decay, and confusion, we are called to be the instruments that God uses to bring about change.  The battle axe is not meant to sit idly by, but to be wielded by a skilled hand to strike down injustice, hatred, and sin. Similarly, we are called to actively engage in the spiritual battles of our time, confronting the injustices that plague our world and standi...

Hebrews  13:16 But to do good and to communicate forget not: for with such sacrifices God is well pleased. The scripture text calls us to reflect upon the nature of sacrifice that pleases God. It speaks to a core aspect of our spiritual journey: the willingness to give, to share, and to do good.  Sacrifice is not just about offering material possessions; it encompasses the sacrifice of our time, talents, and even our comfort for the betterment of others and the glory of God. In a world that often promotes self-centeredness and instant gratification, this scripture reminds us of the importance of selflessness. The sacrifices that please God are not merely ritualistic or obligatory; they stem from a heart transformed by love and compassion. As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate His sacrificial love for humanity. Throughout the Bible, we encounter stories of individuals who offered sacrifices that pleased God. From Abel's sincere offering to Abraham's willingness to sa...

Titus  1:10 For there are many unruly and vain talkers and deceivers, specially they of the circumcision:  1:11 Whose mouths must be stopped, who subvert whole houses, teaching things which they ought not, for filthy lucre's sake. ( Titus 1: 10- 16 ) Vain talkers are those who spread empty and false teachings, fake prophesies, disrupting the unity and growth of the church. Apostle Paul, in his letter to Titus, warns against the presence of vain talkers. These individuals are characterized by their unruly behaviour, deceptive speech, and self-serving motives. They not only deceive others but also deceive themselves, thinking they have something to offer when in reality, they undermine the gospel message. Apostle Paul emphasizes the harm that vain talkers can cause. Their influence spreads like cancer, infecting the spiritual health of the community. Their teachings can lead believers astray, causing doubt and confusion. As a church, we must be vigilant and discerning, pro...

Nehemiah  4:1 But it came to pass, that when Sanballat heard that we builded the wall, he was wroth, and took great indignation, and mocked the Jews. In Nehemiah's time, Sanballat and Tobiah opposed the rebuilding of Jerusalem's walls. They mocked, plotted, and sowed seeds of doubt to discourage Nehemiah and his companions.  However, Nehemiah remained steadfast, turning to prayer and determination to overcome these obstacles. He and his fellow workers trusted God's strength and guidance, resisting the opposition that threatened to derail their mission. Just as Nehemiah faced opposition, we too encounter challenges while living for Christ. In our present day, opposition may come in various forms: cultural pressures that challenge our values, temptations that entice us away from our faith, or even ridicule for our beliefs. In a world that often prioritizes self-interest over selflessness, staying faithful to Christ's teachings can be a daunting task. The pressure to confo...

1 Timothy  2:5 For there is one God, and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus; Amidst a multitude of gods and varying beliefs prevalent in the world, it becomes imperative to affirm our unwavering faith in the one true God.   The God of the Bible is unique, transcendent, and all-powerful, the creator of the heavens and the earth. He stands above all other so-called gods and demands our exclusive devotion.  As believers, we must hold firmly to this belief and strive to proclaim the uniqueness of the one true God in all our interactions. The Role of Jesus Christ as Mediator: As Paul emphasizes in 1 Timothy 2:5, there is one mediator between God and humanity, and that is Jesus Christ. He is the bridge that connects us to the Father, reconciling us to God through His sacrifice on the cross.  Jesus, the Son of God, took on human form to experience our struggles, pain, and temptations, making Him the perfect mediator who understands our weaknesses an...

1 Samuel  17:45 Then said David to the Philistine, Thou comest to me with a sword, and with a spear, and with a shield: but I come to thee in the name of the LORD of hosts, the God of the armies of Israel, whom thou hast defied.  17:46 This day will the LORD deliver thee into mine hand; and I will smite thee, and take thine head from thee; and I will give the carcases of the host of the Philistines this day unto the fowls of the air, and to the wild beasts of the earth; that all the earth may know that there is a God in Israel.  ( 1samuel 17 v 41-46 , 49) When faced with daunting challenges, we often feel inadequate, just like David did when he stood before Goliath. But let us remember that our weaknesses are an opportunity for God's strength to shine through. Our reliance on God's power begins with acknowledging our limitations and placing our trust in His sovereignty. David refused to wear Saul's armor, realizing that it wouldn't help him defeat Goliath. In the same...

Galatians  5:17 For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. Lust is an excessive and selfish craving for something that satisfies our physical or emotional desires, often at the expense of others. It can manifest in various forms, such as lust for power, wealth, or even sexual desires. While some desires are natural, when they take precedence over our love for God and others, they become destructive. The passage reminds us that the Spirit opposes the flesh, and this conflict is a daily struggle. To overcome lust, we must nurture our relationship with God, seeking His guidance and strength to resist temptation.  Practicing self-control and filling our hearts with love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control – the fruits of the Spirit, can help us combat lust's allure. Moreover, we should be cautious about the c...

Isaiah  43:3 For I am the LORD thy God, the Holy One of Israel, thy Saviour: I gave Egypt for thy ransom, Ethiopia and Seba for thee. The words of God from the above verse offer us comfort and hope, reminding us that we are not alone in our journey through life. Our God, the Holy One of Israel, is not a distant and indifferent deity; instead, He is intimately involved in our lives, guiding and protecting us like a loving Savior. As we delve deeper into this verse, we find that "Thy Saviour" signifies several key aspects of God's nature: 1. *Redemption*: God, as our Savior, is the one who redeems us from the bondage of sin and restores our broken relationship with Him. He sent His only Son, Jesus Christ, as the ultimate sacrifice, providing us with the opportunity to experience eternal life through faith in Him. 2. *Deliverance*: The term "Saviour" reminds us that God has the power to deliver us from the trials and tribulations we face. Even in the darkest moment...

Leviticus  17:11 For the life of the flesh is in the blood: and I have given it to you upon the altar to make an atonement for your souls: for it is the blood that maketh an atonement for the soul. From the verse above, we understand that life itself resides in the blood. God, in His divine wisdom, has ordained the blood as the means of atonement, a means of restoring the relationship between humanity and the divine.  The shedding of blood on the altar symbolizes the offering of life as a means to seek forgiveness for sins, a plea for reconciliation with the Almighty. The idea of atonement is deeply connected to the notion of reconciliation and redemption. Sin separates us from God, and the atoning sacrifice provides a way for us to be reconciled with Him. It signifies the seriousness of sin and the costliness of forgiveness.  In the Old Testament, the shedding of animal blood was a temporary representation of the atonement that pointed towards the ultimate and perfect sa...

James  1:2 My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations;  1:3 Knowing this, that the trying of your faith worketh patience.  1:4 But let patience have her perfect work, that ye may be perfect and entire, wanting nothing. Apostle James gave a charge in Verse 2  with a seemingly absurd command  "Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds." How can joy be found amidst difficulties?  It's important to understand that joy, in this context, is not derived from the trial itself but from the growth and transformation that come from enduring it with faith. Then in Verse 3, "Because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance." Trials are like refining fires that test the authenticity of our faith. When we embrace these challenges with trust in God's providence, our faith is strengthened, and we develop resilience and perseverance. Verse 4 unveils the ultimate purpose of enduring trial...

John  9:4 I must work the works of him that sent me, while it is day: the night cometh, when no man can work.  9:5 As long as I am in the world, I am the light of the world. Jesus Christ reveals Himself as the Light of the world, a beacon of truth, love, and hope amidst the darkness that surrounds us. He reminds us that while we have the opportunity of life, we must engage in acts of compassion, righteousness, and kindness—works that reflect the essence of His teachings and the will of our Heavenly Father. In the metaphorical sense, "night" refers to the inevitable challenges and trials that life may bring. It symbolises the times when spiritual blindness and moral decay seem to engulf humanity, making it challenging to discern the path of righteousness.  But even in the darkest of times, Jesus remains the Light that shines through, guiding us towards the truth and offering a way out of despair. As followers of Christ, we are called to emulate His example and become carri...

Joshua  1:8 This book of the law shall not depart out of thy mouth; but thou shalt meditate therein day and night, that thou mayest observe to do according to all that is written therein: for then thou shalt make thy way prosperous, and then thou shalt have good success. Joshua in one of this charge to the children of Israel emphasizes the significance of immersing oneself  in the Scriptures daily. By reading and studying the Word of God regularly, we become equipped to face life's trials with a renewed understanding and strengthened faith, just as it saw ion through countless victories, even the ones that look impossible to man.   The power of the Book of the Law lies not only in reading but also in applying its teachings to our lives. The Word transforms us from within, guiding our thoughts, actions, and decisions, aligning us with God's purpose.  When we faithfully follow the divine principles outlined in the Book of the Law, God promises us prosperity and su...