Rev. O. K. Nkrahene | March 6 2025 | Acts 5:26-32 KEY VERSE: God exalted Him at His own right hand as Prince and Saviour that He might give repentance and forgiveness of sins to Israel. Acts 5:31 (ESV)   MESSAGE: The Almighty God has exalted Jesus Christ to His right hand—a position of highest honour, authority, and power—to bring repentance and forgiveness to humanity. This exaltation is not just a title; it comes with divine purpose. Sin entered the world through the first Adam, bringing separation from God. But Jesus, the second Adam, came to reverse this reality (Romans 5:12-19). His exalted position has significant implications for us: The Outpouring of the Holy Spirit  – Acts 2:33 confirms that Christ’s exaltation fulfilled the Father’s promise, empowering believers through the Holy Spirit. Our Eternal High Priest  – As the exalted One, Christ intercedes for us, ensuring complete salvation (Hebrews 7:25). Lord and Christ  – His exaltation affirms His divine authority as both Lord and Messiah (Acts 2:36). The response to this truth was evident: In Acts 2:37-39, people repented; in Acts 3:19-20, they were urged to turn to God and receive refreshing; and in Acts 4:12, the Council was confronted with the truth that salvation is found in Christ alone. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Christ’s exaltation wasn’t just about glory—it came with the responsibility of offering salvation. As followers of Christ, we must reflect this in our own lives. Elevation in any form—spiritual, professional, or social—should never be just about personal benefits but about fulfilling the purpose for which we have been lifted. PRAYER: Lord Jesus, as You have been exalted to the highest place, help me embrace both the privileges and responsibilities of my calling. May my life reflect Your purpose. Amen.   THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 65: Leviticus 18-20 — Moral Laws and Holiness Code DAILY word study: EXALTED The Greek word for exalted is "ὑψόω" (hypsóō), meaning "to lift up, raise high, or elevate." It conveys not just physical elevation but also a position of authority and honour. In biblical usage, exaltation refers to Jesus being lifted up to the right hand of God. His exaltation signifies: Divine approval (Philippians 2:9-11)—God honoured Him for His obedience. Authority and power (Ephesians 1:20-21)—He rules over all creation. The fulfilment of salvation (Acts 5:31)—He grants repentance and forgiveness. Reflection : Christ’s exaltation calls us to reflect on our lives. Are we seeking elevation for personal gain, or are we embracing the responsibilities that come with it? Just as Jesus’ exaltation brought salvation, our positions in life should serve God's purpose.

Rev. O. K. Nkrahene | March 5 2025 | Acts 5:26-32 KEY VERSE: The God of our fathers raised Jesus, whom you killed by hanging Him on a tree. Acts 5:30 (ESV)   MESSAGE: The preaching of the immediate disciples and Apostles of the Lord Jesus Christ always emphasised the resurrection of the Lord from the dead as a necessary part of the Gospel. The Jesus of Nazareth, who was crucified by the Jews in connivance with the Roman authorities, did not remain conquered by the forces of death. Still, according to His own words and consistent with the Old Testament prophecies concerning the Messiah, He arose again on the third day. Why is this fact so important in the first century and for all time to come?   The resurrection is the first stage of Christ's elevation after the humiliation of His death and burial. The humiliated Christ became the resurrected Christ!   The resurrection gives meaning and basis for the Christian faith. Without the resurrection, our Christian faith and ministry become issues of futility (1 Corinthians 15:12ff). In that case Christianity becomes one of the many expressions of human religious sentiment.   The resurrection of the Lord Jesus from the dead gives hope to the believer. Not only will we ourselves be raised from the dead to live with God forever, but in our daily experiences, we can be assured that the God we serve is able to turn around our challenges because He is “the God who gives life to the dead and calls things that are not as though they were” Rom 4:17 (NIV). FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Pray for the grace to live the resurrected life and to have the power of the resurrection live in and through you.   PRAYER:                         Lord Jesus Christ, thank you that you arose from the dead and give me hope for now and after death. May resurrection power be at work in me, and may I share this wondrous story with people I meet along the way. For your dear Name’s sake, Amen.   THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 64:   Leviticus 15-17 — Cleansing Regulations and the Day of Atonement DAILY word study: HANGING The Greek word used for "hanging" in Acts 5:30 is κρεμάννυμι (kremannymi) , which means to suspend, to put on display, or to be executed by hanging. In Jewish tradition, a person hung on a tree was considered cursed (Deuteronomy 21:22-23). The use of "hanging on a tree" in Acts 5:30 is significant because it aligns with Deuteronomy 21:23, which states that anyone who is hung on a tree is under God's curse. This reference emphasizes that Jesus bore the curse of sin on our behalf. Paul expands on this in Galatians 3:13, explaining that "Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law by becoming a curse for us." The apostles, therefore, were boldly declaring that Jesus’ death was not accidental but an atoning sacrifice for sin. Reflection: Jesus willingly endured the shame of hanging on a tree so that we might receive eternal life. How does this truth shape your faith and gratitude? His suffering was our redemption!

Rev. O. K. Nkrahene | March 4 2025 | Acts 5:26-32 KEY VERSE: ²⁷ And when they had brought them, they set them before the Council. And the high priest questioned them, ²⁸saying "We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man's blood upon us." Acts 5:27-28 (ESV)   MESSAGE: In Acts 4:5-6, we see that the Jewish Council was made up of prominent leaders. Their first confrontation with the apostles did not go well. The undeniable healing of a man who had been crippled for over forty years stood as evidence, and the Council was left in awe at the apostles’ boldness. They even acknowledged that these men had been with Jesus. Despite witnessing this miracle, the Council still refused to accept the truth. Why didn’t they concede? Was it pride? Fear of losing power and influence? History has shown that people often resist the truth until they meet an unfortunate end. Saul relentlessly pursued David out of jealousy, ultimately leading to his downfall. Now, in this second meeting, their refusal is even more glaring. The apostles had been miraculously freed from prison and were once again boldly preaching. Instead of admitting defeat, the Council tried to suppress the message. Their statement in verse 28 reveals their struggle: "You have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man's blood upon us."  They avoided mentioning Jesus' name, referring to Him only as "this man." This echoes Matthew 27:62-68, where they called Jesus an impostor, refusing to acknowledge the truth. Pride prevented them from seeing what was right before them. When pride takes the lead, truth is often ignored—but surrendering to God brings clarity and freedom. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: King David’s downfall with Bathsheba is a classic example of how sin entangles us—the lust of the flesh, greed, and pride of life. Yet, when confronted by Prophet Nathan, David quickly repented, and God forgave him. His humility sets a powerful example of keeping short accounts with God. PRAYER: Lord Jesus, pride leads to destruction. Teach me to humble myself, to acknowledge my sins and failures quickly, and to seek Your forgiveness. Redirect me with Your wisdom and lead me in righteousness. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 63: Leviticus 13-14 — Laws on Skin Diseases and Purification DAILY word study: QUESTIONED The Greek word for "questioned" in Acts 5:27 is ἐπηρώτησεν (eperōtēsen) , meaning to interrogate, inquire deeply, or demand an answer. It is often used in legal or judicial settings where an authority figure seeks clarification. The high priest’s questioning of the apostles was not a mere request for information—it was an attempt to intimidate them into submission. This was a continuation of the resistance seen in Acts 4:17-18, where the leaders sought to silence the message of Christ. Their refusal to acknowledge the miracles and transformation happening before them highlights how hardened hearts resist divine truth. Reflections: How do we respond when confronted with God's truth? Do we seek to genuinely understand, or do we question with skepticism? The high priest’s interrogation was rooted in fear and self-preservation, but the apostles' responses were rooted in faith and obedience.

Rev. O. K. Nkrahene | March 3 2025 | Acts 5:26-32 KEY VERSE: But Peter and the apostles answered, "We must obey God rather than men. Acts 5:29 (ESV)   MESSAGE: In Acts 4:17-18, the Jewish leaders strictly warned Peter and John “not to speak or teach at all in the Name of Jesus.”  Their response, though bold, was not as explicit as what we find in Acts 5:29, where the apostles declared without hesitation: “We must obey God rather than men.”  Their unwavering stance shows that obedience to God is not an option but a necessity for those called by His name. If we have indeed encountered Christ, we cannot remain silent about what He has done in our lives. The apostles' defiance was evident in two key ways: They prayed for boldness (Acts 4:29-30).  Instead of retreating in fear, they and the entire Church sought divine courage. God answered by filling them afresh with the Holy Spirit, affirming His presence with signs and wonders. Today’s Church must prioritise prayer for boldness and impact. Even their enemies acknowledged their unwavering stand (Acts 5:27-28).  The high priest himself admitted that the apostles had “filled Jerusalem with their teaching.”  Their witness could not be ignored! Acts 5:29 presents a principle of obedience that transcends human authority. The Church respects governing bodies, but when those authorities attempt to silence the message of Christ, our allegiance must remain with God. Obeying Him always takes precedence over complying with earthly opposition. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: The early Church understood its mission and was willing to endure threats, beatings, and imprisonment for the Gospel. God stood with them—answering their prayers, delivering them, and empowering them to keep preaching. The modern Church must rediscover this same sense of urgency and commitment.   PRAYER: Lord Jesus, strengthen my resolve to obey You above all else. Help me stand firm in my faith, even when challenged. Let my obedience bring glory to Your Name. Amen.   THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 62:   Leviticus 10-12 — Nadab and Abihu’s Sin; Clean and Unclean Laws DAILY word study: OBEY The Greek word used in Acts 5:29 for obey  is "πειθαρχεῖν" (peitharchein) , derived from peitho  (to persuade) and archo  (to rule). It conveys the idea of yielding to a higher authority out of trust and conviction. In the New Testament, obedience is not merely about following rules but aligning oneself with divine will. The apostles understood that their allegiance was first to God, even when it meant defying religious leaders. Their obedience was tied to faith, courage, and divine calling. Reflection True obedience to God often comes at a cost. Are we willing to remain faithful when faced with opposition? What areas in your life require bold, unwavering obedience?

Rev. O. K. Nkrahene | March 2 2025 | Acts 5:26-32 KEY VERSE: Then the captain with the officers went and brought them, but not by force, for they were afraid of being stoned by the people. Acts 5:26 (ESV)   MESSAGE: The influence of the people played a significant role in the events surrounding the early Church. In Acts 3, a lame beggar was miraculously healed in the name of Jesus Christ. By Acts 4, the religious leaders had summoned Peter and John for questioning, yet they were careful in their response because, as Acts 4:21 states, "the people were all praising God for what had happened."   This same scenario unfolds in Acts 5:26. When the temple guards went to arrest the apostles, they avoided using force -  “for they were afraid of being stoned by the people.”  Instead of acknowledging the undeniable signs of God’s power at work, the Jewish leaders, blinded by their own agendas, resisted the truth. Despite their education and religious status, they deliberately ignored the evidence before them. From both Acts 4:21 and 5:26, we see how the people served as a check against leadership driven by self-interest. This pattern is not new. In Luke 22:1-2, 6 , the religious leaders sought to kill Jesus but feared the reaction of the people. However, public influence can also be manipulated, as seen in Acts 17:1-7 , where a mob was incited against Paul and Silas, and in Acts 19:32 , where many rioted without even knowing why. Yet, in Acts 4:21 and 5:26, the people acted with clarity. They questioned why their leaders chose to suppress the undeniable truth. As 2 Peter 2:16  reminds us, even a speechless donkey once confronted the madness of a prophet. These passages remind us that when leadership strays due to selfish ambition, it is the responsibility of the people to stand for truth and justice. When silence enables deception, speaking up becomes an act of obedience to God. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Leadership can get it wrong because of selfish reasons. We do not have to allow them to continue. God calls His people to stand for righteousness, ensuring that justice and integrity prevail in every sphere of leadership.   PRAYER: Lord, grant us the wisdom and courage to uphold righteousness and hold leadership accountable when they stray. May we always stand for truth, even when it is unpopular. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 61 :   Leviticus 7-9 — The Priestly Ordination and Offerings DAILY word study: THE PEOPLE The Greek word used for "people" in Acts 5:26 is laos  (λαός), which refers to a collective group, often used in the New Testament to describe God’s people or the general public. Throughout Scripture, laos  is used to signify both divine intervention and human responsibility. The people rejoiced in Jesus’ miracles (Luke 19:37), but they could also be swayed by misinformation (Acts 19:32). In Acts 5:26, laos  serves as a check on the unjust actions of the religious leaders, preventing them from using force against the apostles. Reflection: The role of the people in shaping society cannot be overlooked. Whether in biblical times or today, standing for truth and justice matters. Are we using our collective voice to uphold righteousness, or are we allowing injustice to thrive?

Rev. O. K. Nkrahene | March 1 2025 | Acts 5:17-25 KEY VERSE: ²² But when the officers came, they did not find them in the prison, so they returned and reported, ²³ "We found the prison securely locked and the guards standing at the doors, but when we opened them, we found no one inside." Acts 5:22-23 (ESV)   MESSAGE:                                                                      Life often presents challenges that seem insurmountable—barriers that block our path and situations that appear impossible. But God is the master of making a way where there seems to be none, turning obstacles into opportunities for His glory. In Acts 5, despite being imprisoned for preaching the gospel, the apostles experienced divine intervention. Human efforts to silence them failed because God’s power cannot be restrained. The event recorded in this passage highlights several key truths: First, no difficult situation escapes God’s notice. The apostles were confined, but heaven saw their plight. Second, human limitations do not limit God. No prison, guard, or obstacle can stand in His way when He moves. Finally, divine intervention calls for obedience. After their miraculous release, the apostles immediately returned to proclaiming the gospel. Their deliverance was not for their comfort alone but to advance God’s kingdom. God's miraculous interventions are never without purpose. When He opens doors, it is a call to action. Just as the apostles were freed to continue their mission, we, too, are released from obstacles to fulfil His will. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Like the apostles, we may see locked doors and obstacles in every direction. But the same God who intervened for them is still at work, releasing people from bondage, opening doors of opportunity, and proving that no situation is beyond His reach. PRAYER: Heavenly Father, thank You for Your miraculous intervention. When things seem impossible, help me trust in Your power. Strengthen my faith and give me the boldness to walk in obedience. No door is too closed for You to open, and no situation beyond Your power to change. In Jesus’ name, Amen.   THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 60:   Leviticus 4-6 — Sin Offerings and Guilt Offerings DAILY word study: FOUND The Greek word for found  used in Acts 5:23 is εὑρίσκω (heuriskó) , which means to discover, come upon, or detect something that was unknown or unexpected . It implies an effort to locate something, often leading to surprise. In Acts 5:23, the temple officers expected to find the apostles locked up securely. However, God’s intervention left them astounded—despite a sealed prison and stationed guards, the apostles were missing. This reinforces the biblical truth that no human force can restrain God’s purposes (Isaiah 43:16, 19). The use of heuriskó conveys disbelief and astonishment as the authorities realise they have lost control over the situation. Reflection: What areas in our lives seem “locked” and impossible? Just as the authorities were bewildered by God’s supernatural intervention, we, too, can expect the unexpected when we walk in faith. God has the power to disrupt human limitations and bring about divine outcomes.

Rev. O. K. Nkrahene | February 28 2025 | Acts 5:17-25 KEY VERSE: ²² But when the officers came, they did not find them in the prison, so they returned and reported, ²³ "We found the prison securely locked and the guards standing at the doors, but when we opened them, we found no one inside." Acts 5:22-23 (ESV)   MESSAGE:                                                                       Acts 5:23 illustrates the futility of human opposition to God’s work. The high priest and his associates had taken every precaution—locking up the apostles and stationing guards—yet their efforts proved powerless against God’s intervention. A single angel effortlessly rendered their so-called security meaningless. Their reaction in verse 24—perplexity and confusion—highlights the folly of resisting God’s purpose. As Job 42:2 reminds us, "I know that you can do all things and that no purpose of yours can be thwarted."  No human force can stand against the unstoppable mission of the Church. But why were the apostles imprisoned in the first place? Acts 5:12-16 reveals that the Church was thriving—miracles were happening, lives were being transformed, and needs were met. Yet, in verse 17, we see the stark contrast: the high priest and the Sadducees, filled with jealousy, had the apostles arrested. Their opposition wasn’t about doctrine or truth but envy and fear of losing influence. This pattern repeats in Acts 16:1-7, where another evangelistic breakthrough met resistance, again fueled by jealousy. The condition of our hearts matters. When filled with the Holy Spirit, we walk in truth, faithfulness, and obedience to God. But when jealousy, resentment, or bitterness take root, they drive us away from His will. In contrast, though imprisoned, the apostles were miraculously freed for a reason. In verse 20, the angel instructed them, “Go and stand in the temple and speak to the people all the words of this Life.”  This commission underscores the urgency of proclaiming the full message of salvation—eternal life, forgiveness, peace, and restoration. The temple was not just any location; it was a strategic place for reaching the people. Their unwavering obedience serves as a powerful example for us today. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What fills your heart? It may not be Satan himself, but emotions like jealousy, bitterness, and resentment can be just as destructive. God moves heaven and earth to ensure His Word reaches the world. Will you obey His call? PRAYER: Lord Jesus, strengthen those facing challenges as they proclaim Your Word. May we stand firm and walk in obedience, trusting in Your unstoppable power. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 59:   Leviticus 1-3 — Laws for offerings DAILY word study: LOCKED The Greek word for "locked" in Acts 5:23 is katekleistai  (κατεκλείσται), meaning to be enclosed, shut, or restrained. It implies total confinement, a situation meant to be inescapable. The religious leaders believed they had contained the apostles by imprisoning them. However, human barriers cannot hinder God’s work. Just as in Acts 16:26 when Paul and Silas were freed, divine intervention proves that no earthly authority can restrain God’s mission. Reflection: What areas in your life feel “locked” by circumstances? Have you placed your faith in human barriers or in God’s power? Trust that when God calls, no prison can hold you back.

Rev. O. K. Nkrahene | February 27 2025 | Acts 5:12-16 KEY VERSE: Now, many signs and wonders were regularly done among the people by the hands of the Apostles. Acts 5:12a (ESV)   MESSAGE:                                                                      Before ascending to heaven, Jesus charged His followers with a mission: to go into all the world, make disciples, and teach them to obey His commands (Matthew 28:18-20). He assured them of His presence, and part of that presence would be revealed through signs and wonders. The author of the book of Acts succinctly stated that the Acts of the Apostles is a continuation of all that Jesus began to do and teach (Acts 1:1), including healing the sick, casting out demons, and performing miracles—evidence of God's power working through His Church. The early believers understood this. In Acts 4:30, they specifically prayed for God to stretch out His hand to heal and perform signs and wonders as they boldly proclaimed the Gospel. The passage in Acts 5:12-16 affirms that their prayers were answered. The apostolic ministry bore powerful results: the Church experienced remarkable growth, the apostles gained great respect, and tremendous needs were met as people from surrounding towns brought their sick to be healed. The same God who worked through the apostles is the unchanging God we serve today. The needs around us are as great as ever, and His power has not diminished. We must pray with faith and expectation, believing that signs and wonders can still accompany the proclamation of the Gospel. May we open our hearts for God to move through us once again! FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Healing, signs, and wonders were a regular part of the Church’s ministry, not just for spectacle but to meet real needs. Those needs still exist today, and we serve the same miracle-working God. PRAYER: Lord Jesus, revive Your Church with a fresh outpouring of signs and wonders. Use our hands to bring healing, provision, and restoration to those in need. Let Your power be seen again in our time. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 58 :   Exodus 39-40 — The Tabernacle Completed DAILY word study : SIGNS AND WONDERS The Greek words sēmeion (σημεῖον) and teras (τέρας ) translate as "signs" and "wonders." Sēmeion refers to a mark or divine proof, while teras denotes an extraordinary event that inspires awe. Throughout the book of Acts, signs and wonders were not mere displays of supernatural ability; they served a deeper purpose—confirming the message of the Gospel and bearing witness to Christ’s ongoing work through His disciples (Mark 16:20). Beyond their role in confirming divine truth, signs and wonders also drew people to faith (Acts 5:14). The church did not grow by persuasion alone—it expanded through undeniable evidence of God’s presence. Reflection: God still moves in powerful ways. Are we willing vessels for His work? Signs and wonders point to Christ—let us seek His power, not for display, but for His glory.

Rev. O. K. Nkrahene | February 26 2025 | Acts 5:1-11 KEY VERSE: And great fear came upon the whole Church and upon all who heard of these things. Acts 5:11 (ESV)   MESSAGE:                                                                      The ESV footnotes regarding the term 'fear' (Greek phobos) in our key verse indicate that "Fear in response to a manifestation of God's presence encompasses both reverent awe and a healthy fear of God's displeasure and discipline." This dual aspect of fear is essential for maintaining the integrity and reverence within the Church. Romans 11:22 reminds us of both the kindness and severity of God.  Acts 5:1-11 is a clear demonstration of this severity as God deals decisively with deception, hypocrisy, and satanic infiltration in His Church. Ananias' sudden death initially shook the believers (v.5), but by verse 11, the fear of the Lord extended beyond the Church to all who heard what had happened. This moment of divine judgment served as both a warning and a witness, as seen in Acts 13:1-12, where God’s intervention against an agent of Satan led people to faith. The modern Church often faces the accusation—rightly or wrongly—of being filled with hypocrisy. But what does this passage teach us? It reveals that God is deeply concerned about the purity of His Church. Sin within must not be ignored or tolerated. Instead, the church must deal with internal pollution swiftly and decisively by following biblical principles of discipline, accountability, and restoration, ensuring it remains a holy witness to the world. A church that loses the fear of God loses its witness to the world. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Too often, the Church overlooks internal compromise while focusing on external opposition. Yet, Satan’s subtle infiltrations can be just as dangerous. Are we paying attention to spiritual pollution within? PRAYER: Lord, open our eyes to see and confront every hidden work of the enemy in our midst. Give us wisdom to uphold truth, purity, and accountability in Your Church. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 57:   Exodus 37-38 — Making the Tabernacle DAILY word study: FEAR The Greek word phobos (φόβος) , from which we get "fear," conveys both reverence and terror. Acts 5:11 describes the deep awe that fell upon the Church and the surrounding community after witnessing God’s swift judgment. This fear is not just dread but includes a holy reverence—a recognition that God is both loving and just. Throughout Scripture, godly fear leads to wisdom (Proverbs 9:10) and obedience (Ecclesiastes 12:13). The event in Acts 5 is a stark reminder that the Church must uphold truth, integrity, and reverence for God. Without this, we risk becoming complacent and losing our spiritual impact.

Rev. O. K. Nkrahene | February 25 2025 | Acts 5:1-11 KEY VERSE: The young men rose and wrapped him up and carried him out and buried him. ... When the young men came in they found her (Saphira) dead, and they carried her out and buried her beside her husband. Acts 5:6 & 10b (ESV)   MESSAGE:  The young men in the narrative of Ananias and Sapphira played a significant role that we would like to reflect on.   One distinct difference between young people and the older generation is their physical strength. Proverbs 20:29 (ESV) says, “The glory of young men is their strength, but the splendour of old men is their gray hair.”  When God took the swift action of slaying Ananias and Saphira, the young men were available to offer their strength for the important task of burying the deceased couple. They had to wrap the bodies, carry them, dig the burial site, and they did so willingly.   They acted promptly; if they lacked expertise in applying perfumes and wrapping the dead, they served by following the instructions of the elders in the Church or by allowing those experienced individuals to fulfil their roles.   Some things require men or women, older people or younger people, to play certain roles. We must rise up and serve where the duty falls closer to us. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Are there things that call for your action in the home, the Church or the community? Rise up and serve your generation. PRAYER: Lord Jesus, please help the home, the Church, and others in equipping your people to fulfil our responsibilities wherever you send us. For your dear Name’s sake. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 56:   Exodus 35-36 — Israel Brings Offerings for the Tabernacle DAILY word study: ROSE The Greek word used for "rose" in Acts 5:6 is "ἀνίστημι" (anistēmi) , which means "to rise up," "to stand," or "to awaken." It carries a sense of movement, readiness, and action, often implying a significant shift or change in position. The same verb anistēmi is used in the New Testament when referring to Christ’s resurrection, indicating not just physical rising but stepping into divine purpose. The young men in this passage did not just rise physically but also spiritually, taking responsibility in a moment of urgency. Reflection God calls each of us to rise in service when opportunities for ministry present themselves. Are you standing ready for His call? Are you prepared to respond when a task requires your effort?

Rev. O. K. Nkrahene | February 24 2025 | Acts 5:1-11 KEY VERSE: But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back for yourself part of the proceeds of the land? While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal? Why is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to man but to God." Acts 5:3-4 (ESV)   MESSAGE:   The Holy Spirit had come upon the Church, and the impact was undeniable. Thousands embraced the faith, believers were devoted to the foundational principles of growth, and the gospel advanced with power. In Acts 4:31, we see another outpouring of the Spirit, strengthening the Church for bold witness. But then, in Acts 5:3, we encounter a disturbing contrast—Satan filling the hearts of Ananias and Sapphira.   This is a sobering reality: while the Holy Spirit fills believers for the kingdom expansion, the enemy is also at work, seeking to infiltrate hearts. Ananias and Sapphira’s deception was not just about money—it was about yielding to the influence of darkness. Their hearts, which ought to have been fully surrendered to God, became a dwelling place for dishonesty. Their sin was not only against the apostles but against God Himself.   Peter, filled with and acting under the unction of the Holy Spirit, discerned the true source behind their actions—lies, hypocrisy, and deceit do not simply emerge from nowhere. The Bible warns us about the condition of the human heart: “The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked; who can know it?” (Jeremiah 17:9). That is why Proverbs 4:23 urges us to guard our hearts with all diligence.   The question is: What fills our hearts? Are we yielding to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, or are we allowing the enemy to sow seeds of deception within us? FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: Be alert and discerning—do not become an instrument of the enemy. May the Church walk in wisdom and truth, empowered by the Holy Spirit.   PRAYER: Lord Jesus, search my heart and purify my thoughts. Keep me from deceit, and let my life be an instrument of Your truth. Fill me with Your Spirit, that I may walk in integrity before You. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 55:   Exodus 33-34 — Moses Intercedes for Israel DAILY word study: FILLED The Greek word used for filled in Acts 5:3 is "plēroō" (πληρόω) , which means "to make full, to complete, to be controlled by." It is the same word used to describe the filling of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:4), but here, it is applied negatively—Satan had "filled" Ananias' heart, influencing his actions. This word highlights that our hearts are always filled with something. Just as the Holy Spirit fills believers to empower them, yielding to sin and deception allows the enemy to take control. Ananias and Sapphira were not just tempted; their hearts were influenced entirely by deception. Reflection: Are we giving room for the Holy Spirit to fill us daily? What influences our decisions—God’s truth or worldly desires?

Rev. O. K. Nkrahene | February 23 2025 | Acts 5:1-11 KEY VERSE: But Peter said, "Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back for yourself part of the proceeds of the land? While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal? Why is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to man but to God." Acts 5:3-4 (ESV)   MESSAGE: Ananias and Saphira paid with their lives for their sin; we are not dealing with murder, fornication, adultery, or any of the so-called "high profile" sins. Why, then, should this couple suffer the ultimate punishment? We shall reflect on a few reasons why every sin should be cautiously approached.   First, whatever the arch-enemy initiates and executes is intended to strike God's people and to strike very hard. Sin is an affront to the majesty and lordship of God over His Church and our personal lives. Secondly, the ungodly acts of Ananias and Sapphira can be viewed in the same vein as that of Achan (Joshua 7). The disregard for God and order in His congregation at the initial stage of a work of God in the case of Achan in the possession of the Promised Land, as well as in the case of Ananias and Sapphira in the Early Church, would have laid a poor foundation for what God was doing.   Next, sin among God’s people puts the brakes on their victorious journey, as seen in the case of Israel in Joshua 7. Furthermore, any sin left unchecked will lead to the internal pollution of the Church and the emergence of hypocrites. We must acknowledge that we bar God's presence and support when our camp is unholy (Deuteronomy 23:12-14).   Finally, misappropriation of what is meant for the community of faith, the Church, deprives the Church of the needed resources, which are supposed to be supplied by those whom God has blessed to support the work of ministry. FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE: What is your position regarding the resources God has entrusted to you? Do you hold on to them tightly, or do you release the appropriate portions for ministry? Are we retaining what rightfully belongs to God for ourselves, including our bodies, finances, and other assets? Are we pretending to have laid everything on the altar of God? God is never deceived nor mocked.   PRAYER: Lord, please help my family and me be to scrupulously true to your Church. Amen. THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING. SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!! The 365 DAILY BIBLE READING Day 54:   Exodus 32 — The Golden Calf DAILY word study: LIED The word “lied” in Acts 5:3-4 is translated from the Greek "pseudomai" (ψεύδομαι ), meaning to deceive, falsify, or intentionally mislead. It is a strong term that implies purposeful dishonesty. In Scripture, lying is not just a social offence but a direct sin against God (Leviticus 19:11, Proverbs 12:22). Peter’s rebuke highlights that Ananias and Sapphira’s deception was not merely against the apostles but against the Holy Spirit Himself—an affront to God’s sovereignty. Reflection: Deception undermines trust in the body of Christ. Are we fully honest in our dealings, especially concerning what we offer to God? True worship is built on integrity.