Title: Invisible CCTV Camera
Memorize: Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, Hebrews 12:1-3 (Nkjv)
Bible Reading: Hebrews 12:1-3 (Nkjv)
[1] Therefore we also, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which so easily ensnares us, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us,
[2] looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith, who for the joy that was set before Him endured the cross, despising the shame, and has sat down at the right hand of the throne of God.
[3] For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls.
Message:
Today’s memory verse tells us that all believers are under surveillance by a great group of witnesses.
The first group is in heaven, comprising believers who did great exploits for God while they were on earth.
They are watching to see if you will run your Christian race and finish well as they did.
One of the things I always look forward to is getting to heaven and being welcomed by Father Abraham, David, Joseph, Peter, Paul, et cetera, and my Lord Jesus Christ Himself.
The second group of witnesses are people around you who are watching you closely.
They may be your age mates or younger ones who are being mentored by you consciously or unconsciously.
They compare your actions with the word of God to see if you are really the child of God you claim to be.
My dear child, when you overcome any temptation the devil hauls at you, the cloud of witnesses in heaven rejoice.
Hence, do not concede to temptations or secret sins, thinking that no one is watching you. There are many people on earth and in heaven who are watching you.
Key Point:
You are surrounded by a group of witnesses.
HYMN 13: CHRISTIAN, SEEK NOT YET REPOSE
1 ‘Christian! seek not yet repose,’
hear thy guardian angel say;
thou art in the midst of foes;
‘watch and pray.’
2 Principalities and powers,
mustering their unseen array,
wait for thy unguarded hours;
‘watch and pray.’
3 Gird thy heavenly armour on,
wear it ever night and day;
ambushed lies the evil one;
‘watch and pray.’
4 Hear the victors who o’ercame;
still they mark each warrior’s way;
all with one sweet voice exclaim,
‘watch and pray.’
5 Hear, above all, hear thy Lord,
him thou lovest to obey;
hide within thy heart his word,
‘watch and pray.’
6 Watch, as if on that alone
hung the issue of the day;
pray, that help may be sent down;
‘watch and pray.’
Bible In One Year: Luke 7:31-50, Judges 3-5
Authors: Pastor E. A. Adeboye and Pastor Folu Adeboye