MEMORISE: And Samuel said unto him, The LORD hath rent the kingdom of Israel from thee this day, and hath given it to a neighbour of thine, that is better than thou. – 1 Samuel 15:28
BIBLE READING: Acts 1:16-26
16 Men and brethren, this scripture must needs have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost by the mouth of David spake before concerning Judas, which was guide to them that took Jesus.
17 For he was numbered with us, and had obtained part of this ministry.
18 Now this man purchased a field with the reward of iniquity; and falling headlong, he burst asunder in the midst, and all his bowels gushed out.
19 And it was known unto all the dwellers at Jerusalem; insomuch as that field is called in their proper tongue, Aceldama, that is to say, The field of blood.
20 For it is written in the book of Psalms, Let his habitation be desolate, and let no man dwell therein: and his bishoprick let another take.
21 Wherefore of these men which have companied with us all the time that the Lord Jesus went in and out among us,
22 Beginning from the baptism of John, unto that same day that he was taken up from us, must one be ordained to be a witness with us of his resurrection.
23 And they appointed two, Joseph called Barsabas, who was surnamed Justus, and Matthias.
24 And they prayed, and said, Thou, Lord, which knowest the hearts of all men, shew whether of these two thou hast chosen,
25 That he may take part of this ministry and apostleship, from which Judas by transgression fell, that he might go to his own place.
26 And they gave forth their lots; and the lot fell upon Matthias; and he was numbered with the eleven apostles.
MESSAGE:
God cannot be held to ransom on any issue or event, which is why He always provides alternatives. When a child of God becomes proud and begins to disobey God in matters like soul-winning, tithing, offering, giving of first fruits, et cetera, such a fellow is on his or her way to being replaced. I pray that God will not replace you in His agenda, in Jesus’ name.
The act of Judas Iscariot’s betrayal of Jesus had already been predicted in Psalm 41:9, even though no name was mentioned. Today’s Bible reading tells us that Matthias was chosen to replace Judas. My dear child, learn from this experience so that you will be very careful about the way you lead your life.
There are many examples of people who lost their enviable positions and relevance in society due to careless mistakes or disobedience to God. Do not be deceived; God has alternatives for any of His children who choose not to obey Him completely.
PRAYER POINT:
Father, please help me to remain humble so I will not lose my place in You, in Jesus’ name.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR:
Esther l:1-3:15 1 Corinthians 11:17-34