THE MESSAGE NOW
Vol. 5, No. 3 – Sunday, 19th January, 2020
(2 Kings.2:1-18)
THE ARMOUR OF DETERMINATION
Most times in the journey of life, the singular difference between those who succeed and those who quit just before success is attained is the absence of extra minutes that determination gives.
The truth is this: determination makes one see the finish line where success is well-seated, awaiting the more determined conqueror. Determination is never concerned about the hurdles on the path to the finish line. And if at all it does, its considerations are never about the horrors of those hurdles but principally its concern is about the eventual hurrays at the finish line.
This was undoubtedly the mind-set of Elisha. Being aware of his master’s departure on that notable day, neither his business, family or other interests were of more serious concern to him.
Rather the rules of priority informed him that where the ultimate was in the equation every other thing were either mere options or distractions. So, Elisha followed this rule strictly until the ultimate: the double anointing spirit of Elijah was obtained.
Bible scholars informed us that whilst Elijah recorded eight miracles during his earthly ministry, Elisha recorded sixteen. Truly, it was a case of double anointing. Notice also that there were distractions in Elisha’s journey to the finish line. The constant test being set by his master, the sons of the prophet and possibly the inner voices speaking otherwise to him.
But a fixed minded and determined fellow will always attain the desired crown. Yes, you saw it correctly, the desired crown. Not all crowns are desired. Some crowns are merely a case of ‘it is better than nothing’. Do you know that there are ladies who marry on the basis of ‘it is better than nothing?’ Such was not the case of Elisha.
The fire of determination in him saved the day for him along the journey path, and kept his eyes fixed on his master near the finish line so that as the whirlwind and the fiery chariots parted them, faith sponsored and fueled by determination opened his eyes to see his master being taken up into heaven and of course, the sight of his master gained him the desired crown. Fear in him would simply have blinded him from seeing that eventual success of the finish line.
Determination always keeps faith in action and in focus. In these 21 days of waiting on the Lord, please do not tire out. Keep your eagle eyes fixed on the Master, Christ Jesus. Not a single but a double portion of all requests you shall gain as definite testimonies in the end.
IN THE END, THE START OF ANY JOURNEY NEVER COUNTS BUT THE KEY OF DETERMINATION AND TENACITY AND INDEED THE ATTAINMENT OF THE FINAL SUCCESS. AS SUCH, DO EVERYTHING TO FIND TIME TO PRAY DESPITE ALL ODDS AGAINST YOU.
Question and Answer Section
Question: What is that one thing for fuelling the fire of determination?
Answer: Constantly encouraging oneself.
ANNOUNCEMENTS
Counseling, Prayers and Appointments: Please contact contactus@expressimageglory.com Alternatively, meet us every Sunday at the address below:
Suit 26, 2nd Floor, Nikky Africana Plaza, 70C Allen Avenue, Opposite UBA/MTN Office, Ikeja, Lagos.
Donations and Financial Supports – Please support the Kingdom of God through Christ Jesus in this Ministry by paying your hard-earned money to only this one account and no other: Express Image Glory Ministry, Stanbic IBTC Bank, Account number – 0020881228.
Further information: Be informed that this Ministry has only one Facebook page and no other. Any other Facebook page or bank account is counterfeit. Any Concerns or questions about this facebook page or bank account should be directed to: contactus@expressimageglory.com The General Superintendent Minister of this Ministry therefore pleads and urges you to desist from all such fake and ungodly Facebook pages or accounts. Be informed also that there is only one medium for soliciting donations and that medium is via our weekly magazine – The Message Now through our Facebook page or website: www.expressimageglory.com
ALTAR CALL:
Backslidden – living in sin – needing fresh recommitment (say):
Christ Jesus, You are the Anointed One of the Most High. I come to you today as I am. In your mercy, help me out of my situation. Heal my soul, my spirit, my body, my life and my destiny. I acknowledge you as the only true lover of my soul. Please, deliver me on every side and save me through and through. I promise from the depth of my soul to be yours from henceforth, in Jesus name. Help me now O God. Be my Lord, my Saviour and my all in all from this day. Thank you Lord (read Ps.54 in closing and pray more).
HYMN: Stand Up, Stand Up For Jesus
PRAY NOW:
1. I speak against all distractions.
2. O Spirit of determination, possess me now.
3. O God, turn all my requests during these 21 days of fasting into testimonies.
4. O you forces responsible for profitless hardwork, I terminate your assignment and power.
5. O God, expose to me that which makes me pray more but gain less.
6. Great God, let the glory of Express Image Glory Ministries blossom so greatly this year.
Present your personal petitions.