Brighter Life Ministry

John  6:37 All that the Father giveth me shall come to me; and him that cometh to me I will in no wise cast out.  6:38 For I came down from heaven, not to do mine own will, but the will of him that sent me. Jesus reveals the essence of his mission on earth – to fulfill the will of his Father in heaven. But beyond this, he presents a  principle for all humanity: the importance of aligning our lives with a higher purpose, of living not for ourselves, but for something greater. Many are times  we find ourselves consumed by the desires of the flesh, the pursuit of worldly success, or the fleeting pleasures of this life. We become ensnared in the pursuit of personal ambitions and temporary gratifications, losing sight of the greater calling that beckons us. Yet, Jesus offers us a different path – a path of selflessness, of surrendering our will to the divine will. He shows us that true fulfillment is found not in the accumulation of wealth or status, but in serving others...

Hebrews  9:27 And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:  9:28 So Christ was once offered to bear the sins of many; and unto them that look for him shall he appear the second time without sin unto salvation. There is life after this life. 1 Corinthians 15:19 tells us that if in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable. We should have a faith that takes us beyond the grave. life after death is the cornerstone of our Christian belief. It's the assurance that our existence doesn't end with the final breath, but extends into an everlasting communion with our Creator. As followers of Christ, we don't live for this temporal world alone, but for the eternal kingdom awaiting us. The hope of life after death gives us a confidence that is greater than the trials and tribulations of our earthly journey. Our faith in Christ grants us the certainty that death is not the end but a gateway to a glorious reunion with God. B...

John  15:13 Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.  Jesus summarise the essence of the greatest love known to humanity. Love is often spoken of, written about, and sought after, yet in its purest form, it is found in self-sacrifice. Jesus himself demonstrated this ultimate act of love through his sacrifice on the cross for the salvation of humanity. But what does it mean to lay down one's life for another? It goes beyond mere physical death. It encompasses a willingness to sacrifice, to serve, and to put the needs of others above our own. It is a love that is unconditional, sacrificial, and transformative. The greatest love is not found in grand gestures or extravagant displays, but in the everyday moments of selflessness and compassion. It is found in the parent who sacrifices their own comfort for the well-being of their child, in the friend who stands by your side in times of trouble, and in the stranger who extends a helping hand ...

Acts  10:38 How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him. The Holy Spirit, the spirit of God is an active agent of empowerment. Jesus, the Son of God, was anointed with the Holy Spirit and with power. This anointing empowered Him to fulfill His divine mission on earth. Similarly, the Holy Spirit empowers us to live out our calling, equipping us with spiritual gifts and strength to carry out God's will in our lives. Also, the Holy Spirit gives the power of healing. The ministry of Jesus was characterized by compassion and healing. He went about doing good, bringing healing to the brokenhearted, freedom to the captives, and sight to the blind.  Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Jesus performed miracles of physical and spiritual restoration, demonstrating God's love and mercy. Today, the Holy Spirit continues to be the source of healing in our lives, bri...

Genesis  3:8 And they heard the voice of the LORD God walking in the garden in the cool of the day: and Adam and his wife hid themselves from the presence of the LORD God amongst the trees of the garden. This verses above was where Adam and Eve, after sinning against the Lord’s command, hear the voice of the Lord walking in the garden and hide themselves because they are afraid.  This is not the first time they would be hearing the voice of God, but this time, it was different, not because there is a change in tone of the voice of God, but because there is a change in the nature of man.  The nature of God has never changed since the begining, He is consistent in His relationship with man, only that, man often relinquish from the nature God has purposed for us.  Despite  the changed nature of man, the intimacy of relationship God desired for us never change. The Lord, in His infinite love and mercy, sought communion with His creation, desiring to walk alongside t...

Hebrews  11:4 By faith Abel offered unto God a more excellent sacrifice than Cain, by which he obtained witness that he was righteous, God testifying of his gifts: and by it he being dead yet speaketh. Sacrifices are our devotion of service to God, it is giving to the Lord whatever He requires of our time, our earthly possessions.  God demanded a sacrifice from both Cain and Abel, the outcome of their individual sacrifices represent the state of their heart. Go's rejected cain's sacrifice but was pleased with that of Abel   because he offered an excellent sacrifice.    Let us consider some things to more about thr sacrifice of Abel.  1. Faithful Obedience: Abel's sacrifice was not merely an act of ritualistic obedience but stemmed from a heart filled with faith. He offered the best of his flock, demonstrating his trust and obedience to God's command. In our lives, an excellent sacrifice begins with faith-filled obedience to God's will, even when it req...

Psalms  40:2 He brought me up also out of an horrible pit, out of the miry clay, and set my feet upon a rock, and established my goings. Sometimes in life we all encounter our own "horrible pits" in life—times of struggle, doubt, and despair. These pits may take different forms: financial hardship, broken relationships, health crises, or spiritual turmoil. Yet, in the midst of our deepest struggles, we are reminded that God is our rock, our firm foundation. Horrible pit mentioned in the verse above represents the challenges and trials that we face in life. It symbolizes the moments when we feel stuck, overwhelmed, and unable to find our way out. It's in these moments of darkness that we may question our faith, our purpose, and even God's presence in our lives. But the beauty of this verse lies in the next part: "He lifted me out of the horrible pit." Despite our struggles, God does not abandon us. He reaches down into the depths of our despair and lifts us u...

Luke  22:45 And when he rose up from prayer, and was come to his disciples, he found them sleeping for sorrow,  22:46 And said unto them, Why sleep ye? rise and pray, lest ye enter into temptation. Prayer is a communication with God, and in the verses above, Jesus demonstrates the urgency and significance of prayer, especially in times of trial and temptation. He seeks solace and strength from his Father through fervent prayer. Jesus knew that prayer wasn't just a ritual or a duty but a lifeline connecting him to the source of all power and wisdom. Prayer is not just a wish list we present to God but a sacred communion with the Divine. It is our direct line of communication with the Almighty, where we pour out our hearts, seek guidance, and find comfort in His presence. The power of prayer lies not in our words alone but in the faith and trust we place in God. It is a surrender of our will to His divine purpose, acknowledging that His plans far surpass our own. Through prayer,...

Matthew  6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.   Yesterday, we delve into the  teaching serving God first in our life, we studied the life of Abraham and Joseph. Today we will look at the life of two great women who chose to serve God first in their life.  In the book of Ruth, we encounter a remarkable woman whose strength and devotion to God serve as a beacon of inspiration for us all. Despite facing numerous challenges and hardships, Ruth remained steadfast in her commitment to follow God's path, even when it meant leaving behind her homeland and embracing uncertainty. Her unwavering faith and willingness to serve God first, above all else, ultimately led to blessings beyond measure. Likewise, the story of Esther offers a testament to the strength that comes from putting God first. Esther, an orphan raised by her cousin Mordecai, found herself thrust into the heart of political danger. Yet, i...

Matthew  6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Serving God first is prioritising God, His will, His decisions, His guiding and His instructions above ourselves. It is placing Jon ahead of us while we follow from behind.  Abraham, known as the father of faith, displayed unwavering devotion to God even in the face of daunting challenges. When God called him to leave his homeland and journey to a new land,  Abraham obeyed without hesitation, trusting in the Lord's promises. Despite the uncertainties and trials along the way, Abraham remained steadfast in his commitment to God, demonstrating that true strength lies in surrendering to divine will. Joseph, too, exemplified the strength to serve God first. Sold into slavery by his own brothers and unjustly imprisoned, Joseph could have succumbed to bitterness and despair. Yet, he remained faithful to God, using his gifts of interpretation and administratio...

Ecclesiastes  11:10 Therefore remove sorrow from thy heart, and put away evil from thy flesh: for childhood and youth are vanity. Sorrow is an inevitable part of the human experience. We will face hardships, disappointments, and losses that can weigh heavily on our hearts. However, we are not called to dwell in sorrow indefinitely. Instead, we are called to confront it with courage and faith. One way to remove sorrow from our hearts is by cultivating gratitude. Even in the midst of our darkest moments, there is always something to be thankful for. By shifting our focus from what we lack to what we have been blessed with, we can begin to find solace and joy in the simplest of things. Furthermore, we must learn to surrender our burdens to a higher power. As it is written in Psalm 55:22, "Cast your cares on the Lord and he will sustain you; he will never let the righteous be shaken." Through prayer and surrender, we can find peace in knowing that we are not alone in our struggle...

Psalms  50:5 Gather my saints together unto me; those that have made a covenant with me by sacrifice. In the verse above, we are reminded of the covenantal relationship between humanity and God. A covenant is not just a contract but a sacred bond, sealed in sacrifice. Throughout history, God has called upon His people to offer sacrifices as tangible expressions of their devotion and commitment to Him. Sacrifice requires giving up something valuable, whether it be time, resources, or even our own desires. It demands selflessness and obedience. In the Old Testament, we see the offering of animal sacrifices as a symbolic gesture of repentance and worship. However, in the New Testament, we learn of the ultimate sacrifice—the offering of Jesus Christ upon the cross for the redemption of our sins. Through His sacrifice, Jesus fulfilled the covenant between God and humanity, bridging the gap caused by sin and restoring our relationship with the Father. His blood, shed for us, is the very ...

Matthew  8:8 The centurion answered and said, Lord, I am not worthy that thou shouldest come under my roof: but speak the word only, and my servant shall be healed. The story of the Centurion is one of humility, compassion, and extraordinary faith. He was a man of authority, a Roman officer, yet he approached Jesus with a humility that astounded even the Son of God himself.  He recognized his own unworthiness, acknowledging that he was not worthy to have Jesus come under his roof. This humility is the cornerstone of true faith – recognizing our own inadequacy and surrendering to the power and mercy of God. But it is the Centurion's faith that truly sets him apart. He understood the authority of Jesus, not just as a healer, but as one who held power over sickness and death. He believed that a mere word from Jesus would be enough to heal his servant. Such unwavering faith moved Jesus to marvel, declaring, "I tell you the truth, I have not found anyone in Israel with such great f...

Isaiah  66:18 For I know their works and their thoughts: it shall come, that I will gather all nations and tongues; and they shall come, and see my glory. The glory of God as stated the verse above magnificent works and move of God among the people. His glory  is not confined to a single nation or people but transcends all boundaries, encompassing every nation and tongue. It is a glory that cannot be contained or diminished by the limitations of humanity. The glory of the Lord is revealed in His knowledge of our works and our thoughts. Unlike earthly rulers who may only see outward actions, the Lord sees into the depths of our hearts. He knows us intimately, and yet, His love and mercy extend to us unconditionally. Furthermore, the prophecy speaks of a time when all nations and tongues will come and see the glory of the Lord. This is a powerful reminder that the Lord's glory is not hidden or reserved for a select few but is made manifest to all who seek Him. It is a glory that...

Psalms  18:6 In my distress I called upon the LORD, and cried unto my God: he heard my voice out of his temple, and my cry came before him, even into his ears.  As believers and Christian pilgrims on earth, there is a question we need to keep asking ourselves consistently, In times of trouble, in moments of anguish, who do we turn to?  When the storms of life rage around us, who do we call upon for refuge and strength? Do we seek solace in worldly comforts, or do we lift our voices to the Almighty, our Creator, our Sustainer? The Psalmist understood the power of calling upon the Lord in distress. He knew that in God alone could he find true deliverance and salvation. And so, he cried out with all his heart, knowing that his cry would reach the ears of the Most High. Some trusted in chariots, some in money, some in friends, some their self acclaimed power or status. But let us not be quick to turn to the fleeting pleasures of this world. Instead, let us turn our gaze heave...

Proverbs  3:5 Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.  3:6 In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.   We are called to "trust in the Lord with all our hearts." This requires us to surrender our anxieties and fears, placing our complete reliance on the wisdom and providence of God. Trusting in the Lord means acknowledging His sovereignty over our lives, believing that He holds the ultimate plan and purpose for each of us.  we are instructed to "lean not on our own understanding." As human beings, we often pride ourselves on our intellect and reasoning abilities. However, the wisdom of this world pales in comparison to the divine wisdom of God.  Our understanding is limited and finite, whereas God's understanding is infinite and all-encompassing. Therefore, leaning on our own understanding can lead us astray, clouding our judgment and steering us away from the path of righteousness. Instead, we are ...

Matthew  24:14 And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations; and then shall the end come. This passage reveals the essence of our mission as followers of Christ. We are called not only to believe in the gospel but to actively spread its message to all corners of the earth. The gospel of the kingdom is not confined to a select few; it is meant for everyone, regardless of nationality, ethnicity, or background. But what is the gospel of the kingdom? It is the proclamation of God's reign and rule in our lives and in the world. It is the good news that through Jesus Christ, salvation is available to all who believe. It is the message of hope, redemption, and transformation. The gospel of the kingdom, as taught by Jesus Christ, encompasses several key elements that reveal the nature of God's reign and rule in the world: 1. God's Sovereignty: At its core, the gospel of the kingdom proclaims the sovereignty of God. It emphasizes t...

2 Corinthians  6:16 And what agreement hath the temple of God with idols? for ye are the temple of the living God; as God hath said, I will dwell in them, and walk in them; and I will be their God, and they shall be my people.  6:17 Wherefore come out from among them, and be ye separate, saith the Lord, and touch not the unclean thing; and I will receive you,  6:18 And will be a Father unto you, and ye shall be my sons and daughters, saith the Lord Almighty. God always desire intimacy with us, His children. Just as a father cherishes his offspring, God longs to nurture and guide us, to be intimately involved in our lives. Firstly, let us acknowledge the immense privilege we have as children of God. We are not just a fragment of God's creation in the vastness of the universe; rather, we are intimately connected to the Creator of all things. This relationship is not to be taken lightly, but cherished and nurtured with reverence and gratitude. Secondly, as children of God, w...

Psalms  37:8 Cease from anger, and forsake wrath: fret not thyself in any wise to do evil. Anger, like a raging fire, consumes not only the one who harbours it but also those who are within its reach. It blinds us to reason, clouds our judgment, and leads us down a path of destruction. Yet, the psalmist reminds us that we have the power to cease from anger. To cease from anger is not to deny its existence or suppress its flames. Rather, it is a conscious choice to rise above it, to transcend its grip on our hearts and minds. It is to acknowledge our emotions but not to let them rule over us. Furthermore, we are called to forsake wrath. Wrath is the manifestation of unchecked anger, the outward expression of inner turmoil. It lashes out indiscriminately, causing harm to ourselves and those around us. But we are not slaves to wrath; we have the power to forsake it. In forsaking wrath, we choose a different path—a path of compassion, understanding, and forgiveness. We recognize that e...

1 Peter  1:7 That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honour and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ: The journey of faith is not always smooth; it is often marked by trials, tribulations, and challenges. But in these moments of testing, our faith shines brightest, for it is through trials that the authenticity of our faith is revealed. Imagine gold being refined in the fire; similarly, our faith is refined and purified through the fires of trials. Just as gold becomes more precious and valuable after undergoing the refining process, so does our faith become stronger and more resilient when tested. In the midst of trials, it is natural to feel doubt, fear, and uncertainty. However, it is precisely during these times that we must cling to our faith with unwavering trust in God's promises. For it is through our steadfastness in faith that we demonstrate our reliance on God's...

John  16:13 Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. In a world often clouded by uncertainties, falsehoods, and deceptive paths, the Spirit of Truth stands as our unwavering guide. This Spirit, promised by our Lord, is not a force but a divine presence that illuminates the darkness around us.  It is through this spirit that we gain access to eternal truths that transcend the temporal illusions of our earthly existence. Firstly, the Spirit of Truth is our constant companion, revealing God's unchanging Word to us. In moments of confusion or doubt, turn to the Scriptures, for the Spirit whispers the timeless truths that provide solace and direction.  As we meditate on the Word, let us open our hearts to the Spirit's guidance, allowing it to illuminate the path of righteousness. Secondly, the Spirit of Truth unveils...

John  16:23 And in that day ye shall ask me nothing. Verily, verily, I say unto you, Whatsoever ye shall ask the Father in my name, he will give it you.  16:24 Hitherto have ye asked nothing in my name: ask, and ye shall receive, that your joy may be full. God is faithful and true in everything that He says and does. Like God Himself, God's promises are true . And the Scriptures show undeniably that God is true to His promises. The words of Christ from the verses are a testament to the incredible promise of prayer. Our heavenly Father eagerly awaits our petitions, ready to pour out His blessings upon us when we ask in the name of Jesus. What a privilege it is to have direct access to the Creator of the universe, to bring our needs, hopes, and dreams before Him with confidence and expectation! God's promises are not empty words; they are steadfast and true. When we align our desires with His will and approach Him in faith, we can trust that He will answer according to His ...

2 Timothy  2:3 Thou therefore endure hardness, as a good soldier of Jesus Christ. Apostle Paul uses the metaphor of a soldier to illustrate the Christian life. Just as a soldier must be disciplined, courageous, and steadfast in the face of adversity, so too must we, as followers of Christ, exhibit these qualities in our spiritual journey. Firstly, let us understand the discipline required of a soldier. A soldier undergoes rigorous training to prepare for battle, honing their skills and strengthening their resolve.  Similarly, as believers, we are called to discipline ourselves through prayer, study of the Word, and obedience to God's commands. It is through this discipline that we are equipped to face the challenges that lie ahead. Secondly, Paul speaks of enduring hardship. The Christian walk is not always easy; it often entails trials, persecution, and tribulations. Yet, like a good soldier, we are called to persevere through these hardships, knowing that our faith is being ...

Isaiah  46:4 And even to your old age I am he; and even to hoar hairs will I carry you: I have made, and I will bear; even I will carry, and will deliver you. In the verse above, we witness the unwavering promise of God to sustain us throughout our entire journey of life. As we navigate through the seasons of youth, adulthood, and old age, God remains steadfast in His commitment to uphold us. What a comforting assurance this is! Let us reflect for a moment on the concept of sustainability. In our modern world, sustainability often pertains to environmental conservation and resource management. Yet, God's sustainability encompasses far more than mere earthly provisions. It encompasses the sustenance of our souls, the nourishment of our spirits, and the preservation of our faith. God's sustainability go beyond the limitations of time and space. From the moment of our creation to the twilight years of our lives, He is with us, guiding us, and sustaining us. His sustaining power kn...

Psalms  46:1 God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. It is  easy to feel overwhelmed by the challenges we face. Whether it be personal struggles, societal unrest, or global crises, we may find ourselves searching for solace and strength. Yet, amidst the storms of life, we find assurance in the unchanging character of our God. He is a present help in our time of need. When troubles assail us from every side, we can take refuge in His unfailing love and find strength in His mighty power. God is our refuge, a place of shelter and safety amidst the chaos of life. When the storms rage and the waves threaten to overwhelm us, He is our solid rock, an anchor for our souls. In Him, we find peace that surpasses understanding, a peace that guards our hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. Furthermore, God is our strength, the source of our courage and resilience. When we feel weak and powerless, He infuses us with His divine strength. He empowers us to endure trials wi...

Ephesians  5:8 For ye were sometimes darkness, but now are ye light in the Lord: walk as children of light: As believers, we are called to walk as children of light, to embody the virtues of righteousness, truth, and love in all aspects of our lives.  Light illuminates darkness, revealing truth and dispelling shadows. In a world often shrouded in moral ambiguity and spiritual confusion, we are called to be beacons of light, shining brightly with the truth of God's word and the love of Christ. Jesus Christ is the one who has come to enlightened the world concerning salvation so we do not walk in the darkness of death. He is the one through whom the abundant life can be attained, and through whom one can find his way back to God. John  8:12 Then spake Jesus again unto them, saying, I am the light of the world: he that followeth me shall not walk in darkness, but shall have the light of life.  By obedience to the teachings of Christ, one can thus walk in the light and b...

Ezekiel  37:14 And shall put my spirit in you, and ye shall live, and I shall place you in your own land: then shall ye know that I the LORD have spoken it, and performed it, saith the LORD. Every word that comes from God’s mouth has power and authority. In the verse above, we witness the transformative power of God's words. They are not just empty utterances, but rather declarations of His divine authority and promises of restoration and renewal. Firstly, let us recognize that the Lord's spoken words are accompanied by His Spirit. It is through the indwelling of His Spirit that we are given new life, both spiritually and physically. In a world plagued by spiritual dryness and despair, the Lord's words breathe life into our souls, revitalizing us and empowering us to live according to His will. Moreover, the Lord's spoken words bring about fulfillment. Just as He promised to settle the Israelites in their own land, He fulfills His promises to us today. His words are not...

Galatians  6:15 For in Christ Jesus neither circumcision availeth any thing, nor uncircumcision, but a new creature. In ancient times before the coming of the Lord Jesus Christ, there has been a legalism that only the circumcised are recognised by God and are privileged to enjoy God's blessings. But the coming of the LORD Jesus Christ put an end to this indifference and makes everyone either circumcised or not to be partaker of God's eternal glory. In the verse above, Apostle Paul addresses the core indifference. He emphasizes that adherence to religious rituals or traditions does not hold significance in the eyes of God. Instead, what truly matters is the inner transformation that occurs when one becomes a new creation in Christ. We can have an in depth knowledge about this when we consider these three essential aspects: 1. Renewed Identity: Through faith in Jesus Christ, we are not merely reformed or improved versions of our former selves; we are fundamentally transformed...

1 Corinthians  9:26 I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air:  9:27 But I keep under my body, and bring it into subjection: lest that by any means, when I have preached to others, I myself should be a castaway. The christian journey is like a race, the moment we accepted Christ as Lord and personal saviour is the day we commence our race. It is not in competing with anyone in other to get a price but competing with ourselves in other to finish the race in Christ and not in the flesh. Whereby at the end, we get a price.  As many run a race with uncertainty, or with a doubtful mind,  the Christian race must be the one with a purpose.  In the verses above,  Apostle Paul uses the analogy of a runner and a boxer to convey a profound spiritual truth: the importance of running life's race with certainty and purpose. He contrasts running aimlessly with running with a clear goal in mind. Just as a runner in a race needs a c...

Romans  8:1 There is therefore now no condemnation to them which are in Christ Jesus, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit. When we come to Christ, we are not met with condemnation but with compassion. We are not met with punishment but with grace. In Christ, we find forgiveness for our sins and acceptance as beloved children of God. The chains of condemnation are broken, and we are set free to live in the fullness of God's love and mercy. Yet, despite this incredible gift of grace, many of us continue to carry the heavy burden of condemnation. We allow our past mistakes to define us.  We listen to the whispers of shame that tell us we are unworthy of love and forgiveness. But let me remind you today, my dear brothers and sisters, that those whispers are lies from the enemy, seeking to rob us of the abundant life that Christ offers. The truth is that there is nothing we can do to earn God's love, and there is nothing we can do to lose it. His love for us is uncon...