The joy derived from the pleasures of sin is transient, yet many are being deceived to go for it instead of the eternal joy that comes with righteousness. Moses made an unpopular choice, although he knew it would cost him the throne of Egypt. He counted the cost of accepting to be called the son of Pharaoh's daughter: although it would guarantee temporal enjoyment, the door of heaven would be shut against him. What is persecution (suffering for Christ on earth) compared to eternal suffering in hell fire?

The rich young ruler was a good man who observed the ten commandments from his youth, but it is sad to discover that he was not good enough for heaven. He was disqualified, because according to Jesus, he lacked one thing: he had no power over his material possessions. He failed the test to deny himself, take up his cross and follow the Lord. Although he was a good man, he was not saved.

The Lord is a shelter in the time of storm for His people who trust in Him. Talking about the believer, The Lord said in Psalm 91:15b - "I will be with him in trouble; I will deliver him and honour him". There is no need to worry since God has promised to be with you in your situation. The Lord is your defence and no weapon that is fashioned against you shall prosper.

It is your responsibility to keep the fire burning continuously upon the altar of your heart by adding the wood of praise and prayer as you fellowship with God every day. The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out. However, if the fire has gone out, you can repair the broken altar today as Elijah did at mount Carmel. Where no wood is, the fire goeth out - Proverbs 26:20a.

David could not go to battle with the armour of Saul because he had not proved them. He recalled how he killed a lion and a bear in the past with the armour of faith. He believed that the same God that delivered him from the lion and the bear could do it again. Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, and today and forever.