Liberty Conference 2026

 The time has come once again for the highly anticipated LIBERTY CONFERENCE 2026! it will come up on February 20,21,22.

This year's powerful theme, "CONQUER THE POWER OF DEPTH",promises to take participants into a profound spiritual encounter. This gathering is far more than just an event—it's a transformative experience where lives are touched and changed through intense times of deep worship, anointed teachings, heartfelt prayer, and supernatural encounters with God.

Many have testified to experiencing genuine spiritual awakening, breakthroughs leading to financial freedom, marital restoration, healings, and renewed purpose during past editions. The atmosphere is charged with the presence of the Holy Spirit, creating opportunities for personal revival, deliverance, and lasting freedom in every area of life.

Don't miss this life-changing edition! Join us as we dive deeper into God's presence to conquer every limitation and unlock the abundant life He has destined for us.

To stay connected, receive important updates join the WhatsApp group ( https://chat.whatsapp.com/CyBOp7godje5Un69GRneL1?mode=gi_t ), Pray, plan your participation, and prepare your heart, and kindly follow the Facebook page  right away @  https://www.facebook.com/echogospelmission . This is your invitation to be part of something extraordinary—position yourself now to connect live during the conference on Facebook.

This 2026 edition is set to bless countless souls and usher in a fresh wave of God's glory. Prepare to be transformed!

See you there—let's conquer the depths together in Christ! 🙌🔥

Submit Yourselves to the Lord : TWGN Devotional - 17th February

 

Memory Verse:  

Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you. (James 4:7, ESV)

Meditation:  

Take a quiet moment to reflect on this truth: Submission to God is not a sign of weakness but the pathway to true strength and victory. When we yield our will to the Lord's, we align ourselves with the One who holds all power, wisdom, and love. Ponder how surrendering control brings freedom rather than bondage—freedom from anxiety, self-reliance, and the enemy's schemes. Let this verse echo in your heart today: submission first, then resistance, then flight of the adversary. Ask yourself: In what areas of my life am I still holding on tightly instead of laying it down before Him?

  

Beloved in Christ, in a world that celebrates independence, self-assertion, and personal achievement, the call to submit ourselves to the Lord stands in stark contrast. Yet this is the very essence of the Christian life—a joyful yielding to the perfect will of our Creator and Redeemer. To submit to the Lord means acknowledging His sovereignty over every aspect of our existence: our thoughts, decisions, relationships, ambitions, and even our sufferings. It is an act of worship, trust, and love. The Bible repeatedly invites us into this posture because God knows that true peace, purpose, and power flow from alignment with Him. Today, we explore the profound beauty and necessity of submitting ourselves fully to the Lord, drawing from Scripture to understand why it transforms us and how it leads to abundant life in Christ.

  

Submission to God is rooted in humility and recognition of His supreme authority. The word "submit" in James 4:7 comes from the Greek hypotassō, meaning to place or arrange under, like soldiers lining up under their commander. It implies voluntary alignment under God's lordship, not forced coercion. James writes this in the context of spiritual conflict—pride leads to opposition from God (James 4:6), but humility opens the door to grace.

Consider the sequence in James 4:7-10: Submit to God → Resist the devil → He flees → Draw near to God → He draws near → Cleanse your hands, purify your hearts → Mourn over sin → Humble yourselves → God lifts you up. Submission is the foundational step. Without it, resistance against evil lacks authority because it stems from self rather than surrender to Christ.

This echoes Romans 12:1-2, where Paul urges believers, "by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God, which is your spiritual worship." In the Old Testament, sacrifices were dead offerings, but here we are called to be *living* sacrifices—our entire lives offered continually. This means dedicating our bodies (actions, habits, senses), minds (thoughts, desires), and wills to God. No longer do we conform to the world's patterns of pride, ambition, or rebellion; instead, we are transformed by renewing our minds through God's Word, discerning His good, pleasing, and perfect will.

Jesus Himself modeled perfect submission. In Gethsemane, facing the cross, He prayed, "Not my will, but yours, be done" (Luke 22:42). Philippians 2:5-8 describes Christ humbling Himself, taking the form of a servant, and becoming obedient to death—even death on a cross. If the Son of God submitted to the Father, how much more should we, redeemed by His blood, do the same?

Proverbs 3:5-6 commands, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths." Submission involves trusting God's wisdom over our limited perspective. When we submit our plans, fears, relationships, finances, health, and future to Him, He directs us rightly.

Matthew 16:24 adds depth: "If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me." Self-denial is the practical outworking of submission—refusing to live for self and choosing to live for Christ. Galatians 2:20 declares, "I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me." True submission crucifies the old self so Christ reigns.

In 1 Peter 5:6-7, we read, "Humble yourselves, therefore, under the mighty hand of God so that at the proper time he may exalt you, casting all your anxieties on him, because he cares for you." Submission releases burdens to God, who cares intimately. Job 22:21 promises, "Submit to God and be at peace with him; in this way prosperity will come to you." Peace and blessing follow surrender.

Submission combats pride, the root of sin from Eden onward. When Adam and Eve chose their way over God's, rebellion entered. Submission reverses that—realigning us to God's order. It empowers resistance against the devil because we stand not in our strength but in Christ's victory (Colossians 2:15). Satan flees when we submit because he opposes God, not a surrendered believer filled with divine authority.

Practically, submission looks like daily prayer ("Thy will be done"), obedience to Scripture, yielding in relationships (Ephesians 5:21—submitting out of reverence for Christ), and trusting God in trials. It is ongoing, not a one-time event—daily presenting ourselves anew.

The rewards are immense: freedom (Galatians 5:1), grace (James 4:6), nearness to God (James 4:8), exaltation (1 Peter 5:6), straight paths (Proverbs 3:6), and victory over evil. Submission is not loss; it is gain in the kingdom economy.

  

Beloved, begin today by examining your heart honestly. Where are you resisting God's will—in career choices, relationships, habits, or unforgiveness? Confess it and choose submission. Start small: surrender one area daily through prayer. Read Scripture to know His will better. Surround yourself with accountable believers who encourage surrender. When tempted to take control, remember Jesus' example and pray for grace to yield. Resist the devil by standing firm in submission—speak truth, pray fervently, and watch him flee. Live as a living sacrifice, offering your time, talents, and treasures to the Lord. In marriage, work, parenting, or ministry, submit first to God, then to others as unto Him. Trust that His ways are higher and His timing perfect. Humble yourself continually, and He will lift you up.

If submission feels burdensome, remember: the yoke of Christ is easy and light because He carries the weight (Matthew 11:28-30). What area of your life would flourish most if fully surrendered? Consider how pride has caused strife—how might humility bring peace? Reflect on times God has proven faithful when you yielded—let those memories strengthen your trust today.

At the heart of submission lies the Gospel. We could never submit perfectly on our own—our sinful nature rebels. But Jesus submitted perfectly to the Father, even unto death, to redeem us. On the cross, He bore our rebellion, pride, and self-will, paying the penalty we deserved. Through His resurrection, we receive new life—empowered by the Holy Spirit to submit joyfully. The Gospel invites you: come as you are, repent of self-rule, believe in Christ, and be united to Him. In Him, submission becomes delight, not duty—because we are loved, forgiven, and indwelt by the One who submitted for us. If you've never surrendered your life to Christ, today is the day of salvation. Turn to Him, confess your need, and receive His grace.

Today's Word Quotes: 

- "Not my will, but Yours, be done." (Luke 22:42)  

- "Present your bodies as a living sacrifice... which is your spiritual worship." (Romans 12:1)  

- "Trust in the Lord with all your heart..." (Proverbs 3:5-6)  

- "Humble yourselves... casting all your anxieties on him..." (1 Peter 5:6-7)  

- "Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves..." (Matthew 16:24)

Prayer: 

Heavenly Father, we submit ourselves fully to You today. Forgive our pride and self-will. Help us yield every part of our lives to Your loving authority. Fill us with Your Spirit to resist the enemy and draw near to You. May Christ live through us as living sacrifices. Lift us up in Your time, for Your glory. In Jesus' name, Amen.

Week of Divine Mercy to Every Destiny : 10th Weekly Prophecy Declaration - 16th February

 

Beloved in Christ, grace and peace be multiplied to you in the mighty name of Jesus! As we step into this fresh week, the Lord has declared it a This is not ordinary time; it is a divinely appointed season where the tender compassions of our Heavenly Father rise like the dawn, fresh and unfailing, to touch, heal, restore, and propel every purpose He has planted in your life.

The Scriptures remind us in Lamentations 3:22-23 that "It is of the Lord's mercies that we are not consumed, because his compassions fail not. They are new every morning: great is thy faithfulness." Hallelujah! God's mercy is not recycled or stale; it renews itself daily, tailored specifically for your needs this week. No matter the battles of yesterday, the delays, the disappointments, or the unseen oppositions, the mercy of God steps in as your shield and your accelerator.

I prophesy over you right now: This week, divine mercy locates your destiny! Every area where your purpose has been hindered, stalled, or attacked, the Lord releases fresh waves of His compassion to override every obstacle. What the enemy plotted for your downfall, mercy turns into your testimony. Where doors were shut, mercy flings them wide open. Where helpers were distant or diverted, mercy draws them near with urgency and favor.

Declare with me boldly:

I receive the mercy of God afresh this morning!  

The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases over my life.  

His mercies are new every single day of this week, and great is His faithfulness toward me!  

I am not consumed by past failures, present pressures, or future fears, because mercy prevails!

This is your week of divine mercy to your destiny. Destiny is not just about where you are going; it is the divine blueprint God etched upon your spirit before the foundations of the world. The enemy has tried to obscure it, delay it, or counterfeit it, but mercy intervenes. Psalm 136 repeatedly declares, "His mercy endures forever." That enduring mercy now endures for you, carrying your destiny forward with supernatural speed.

I declare: Every chain of limitation around your purpose is broken by mercy!  

Mercy speaks better things than the accusations of the past.  

Mercy cancels debts of sin, shame, and setbacks that have weighed down your calling.  

In this week, mercy restores what was lost in previous seasons—time, opportunities, relationships, and resources.

Beloved, imagine the prodigal son in Luke 15. He wasted his inheritance, yet when he returned, the father's mercy ran to meet him, embraced him, and restored him fully. That same running mercy runs toward you this week! It doesn't wait for you to clean up; it meets you in your mess and transforms your destiny. Your story shifts from "what if" to "what God has done."

Prophetic word: This week, mercy attracts destiny helpers!  

People you never met, connections you never imagined, resources you never asked for—they locate you because mercy commands it.  

Destiny helpers who once overlooked you now see you with favor.  

Those who were positioned ahead to assist you turn around and help you, in Jesus' name!  

Mercy causes your name to be remembered for good in high places.

Declare:  

I walk in divine mercy this week!  

My destiny helpers arise and appear speedily!  

Favor surrounds me like a shield, and mercy paves the way for my purpose!  

No weapon formed against my destiny prospers, for mercy defends me!

Furthermore, this week of divine mercy brings healing to wounded destinies. Perhaps rejection, betrayal, or loss has scarred your path. But hear this: God's mercy heals the brokenhearted and binds up their wounds (Psalm 147:3). Mercy mends what was torn, revives what was dormant, and ignites what was quenched. Your gifts, talents, and anointings that have been buried under discouragement now resurface with fresh fire.

I prophesy: Mercy releases supernatural acceleration!  

What would have taken years happens in days.  

Divine shortcuts open because mercy goes before you.  

Delays turn into divine appointments.  

Stagnation becomes momentum.  

Your destiny leaps forward!

In the area of family, mercy covers your household. Straying children return under the pull of mercy. Broken marriages find reconciliation through mercy. Barren wombs conceive by mercy. Financial struggles bow to mercy's provision. Sickness flees at the command of mercy.

Declare over your family:  

The mercy of God overshadows my home!  

Every destiny in my lineage experiences divine mercy this week!  

No curse prevails; mercy triumphs!  

We walk in health, wealth, and wholeness!

For your career and business, mercy announces promotion. Where there was demotion or stagnation, mercy elevates. Ideas flow like rivers, clients multiply, contracts sign themselves, and profits overflow because mercy favors the work of your hands.

Prophetic declaration:  

This week, my business experiences mercy-driven increase!  

My career receives divine elevation!  

Mercy turns ordinary efforts into extraordinary results!  

I am positioned for supernatural advancement!

Spiritually, this is a week of deeper intimacy with God. Mercy draws you closer to the throne of grace. Prayers ascend with power; worship breaks yokes; the Word becomes alive and active. You hear God's voice clearer, receive directions sharper, and walk in obedience with joy.

I declare:  

My spirit is awakened by mercy!  

I encounter God afresh this week!  

Revelations, visions, and divine instructions flow freely!  

I am a carrier of His presence and power!

Beloved, mercy also protects your destiny from unseen dangers. Accidents averted, plots exposed, evil intentions nullified—all by mercy. Psalm 103:8 says, "The Lord is merciful and gracious, slow to anger, and plenteous in mercy." He is plenteous toward you this week!

As you go through each day, keep declaring:  

This is my week of divine mercy to my destiny!  

Mercy locates me, lifts me, and launches me!  

I refuse to be consumed; I embrace renewal!  

Great is Your faithfulness, O God!

In conclusion, enter this week with expectation. Lift your hands and receive the fresh mercies raining down. Your destiny is secure in the hands of a merciful God who never fails. What He started in you, He will complete by mercy.

Walk in victory, favor, and purpose. The week of divine mercy to every destiny is here—and it is yours!

In Jesus' mighty name, Amen and Amen!

O God! You Are My Help – Behold, God Is My Helper : TWGN Devotional - 16th February

Memory Verse:  

Psalm 54:4 (NIV)  

Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains my life.

Meditation

Find a quiet space and close your eyes for a moment. Imagine being surrounded by opposition—perhaps criticism, betrayal, or overwhelming circumstances that make you feel vulnerable and alone. In that pressure, the psalmist doesn't look to allies or strategies first; he declares with certainty, "Surely God is my help." The word "surely" carries conviction, like an anchor in the storm. God doesn't just offer assistance—He sustains your very life, upholding your soul when everything else threatens to pull you under. Breathe in His promise: He is your Helper, faithful and near. Let go of striving; rest in the assurance that the Lord Himself sustains you today.

 

Precious saints of God, in seasons of distress, when enemies rise or life's burdens weigh heavily, our hearts naturally seek rescue. The cry "O God! You are my Help" rises from deep dependence, echoing the experiences of David and countless believers across generations. Psalm 54 captures this raw honesty amid persecution—David, hunted and betrayed, turns not to human aid but to the divine Sustainer. This psalm reminds us that God is not a last resort but our primary and ultimate Helper. He upholds our lives, turns back evil, and brings victory through His name. Today, let us immerse ourselves in this truth, allowing it to fortify our faith and remind us that in every trial, the Lord stands ready to sustain and deliver those who call upon Him.

  

Psalm 54 is a short but powerful cry for help written when the Ziphites betrayed David to Saul (see 1 Samuel 23). David begins with a plea: "Save me, O God, by your name; vindicate me by your might" (v. 1). He appeals to God's name—His character and reputation—as the basis for salvation. Then comes the confident declaration: "Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains my life" (v. 4). "Surely" (or "behold" in some translations) draws attention emphatically: Look! God Himself is here as my Helper!

The Hebrew word for "help" (ezer) appears frequently in Scripture for God (e.g., Psalm 121:2, Psalm 146:5). It denotes powerful aid, often from a superior source—God as the mighty Helper who comes alongside to strengthen and rescue. "Sustains" (or "upholder") implies God props up, supports, and preserves life itself. When human strength fails, God holds us steady.

Verses 5-7 show the outcome: "Let evil recoil on those who slander me; in your faithfulness destroy them" (v. 5). David trusts God's faithfulness to turn attacks back. He offers sacrifice willingly and praises God's name because "he has delivered me from all my troubles, and my eyes have looked in triumph on my foes" (v. 7). This isn't presumption but faith in God's proven character.

This echoes broader biblical themes. In Psalm 118:6-7 (quoted in Hebrews 13:6): "The Lord is with me; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me? The Lord is with me; he is my helper." Hebrews 13:6 boldly affirms: "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can mere mortals do to me?" Confidence flows from God's presence.

Isaiah 41:10-13 reinforces: "Fear not, for I am with you... I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand... For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, 'Fear not, I am the one who helps you.'" God personally takes our hand!

In the New Testament, Jesus promises the Holy Spirit as "another Helper" (Parakletos—One called alongside to aid; John 14:16, 26; 15:26; 16:7). The Father sent the Son as our ultimate Helper in salvation; now the Spirit abides as our constant Helper in daily life.

Why does God help? His nature demands it—He is faithful, merciful, and loves His children. Psalm 54 shows help tied to God's name and faithfulness. When we call on Him, He acts to defend His glory and our good. Human helpers may falter, but God never does. His help sustains through trials, often transforming them into testimonies of His power.

This truth combats despair. In betrayal like David's, or modern pressures—financial lack, health crises, relational pain—God sustains. He may deliver swiftly or grant grace to endure, but always, He upholds life itself.

  

Embrace this declaration daily: When challenges arise, speak aloud, "Surely God is my help; the Lord sustains my life." Pray using God's names—Jehovah Ezer, our Helper. Offer praise preemptively, as David did, thanking God for deliverance before it arrives—this builds faith. Avoid bitterness toward "enemies"; trust God to handle justice. Seek His wisdom in decisions, knowing He helps the humble. Surround yourself with Scripture—memorize Psalm 54 or Hebrews 13:6 for quick recall in distress. Share testimonies of God's help to encourage others. In weakness, lean harder on Him; His strength shines brightest there. Live with bold confidence, for if God is your Helper, no force can ultimately prevail.

Today's Food for Thought 

- What "enemies" or troubles make you feel vulnerable right now? How does knowing God sustains your life change your perspective?  

- Why do we sometimes seek human help first instead of declaring God as our Helper?  

- Recall a time God upheld you—how can that memory strengthen you today?  

- If the Lord is your Helper, what fear loses its power?  

- How can praising God in advance, like David, shift your current situation?

  

God's role as Helper reaches its pinnacle in the Gospel. We were helpless against sin's power and judgment—dead in transgressions, unable to save ourselves (Ephesians 2:1-5). But God, rich in mercy, sent His Son Jesus as our Helper and Savior. Christ took our place, bearing sin's penalty on the cross, rising to give us eternal life. Through faith in Him, we are forgiven, reconciled, and indwelt by the Holy Spirit—our abiding Helper. If you feel overwhelmed by guilt or need today, cry out to Jesus: He saves and sustains. For believers, the cross proves God's helping heart—He helped us at our worst; He will help us now and forever.

Today's Word Quotes 

- "Surely God is my help; the Lord is the one who sustains my life." — Psalm 54:4  

- "The Lord is my helper; I will not fear. What can mere mortals do to me?" — Hebrews 13:6  

- "Fear not, for I am with you... I will strengthen you, I will help you." — Isaiah 41:10  

- "My help comes from the Lord, the Maker of heaven and earth." — Psalm 121:2  

- "Behold, God is my helper; the Lord is with those who uphold my life." — Psalm 54:4 (NKJV)  

- "The Lord is on my side as my helper; I shall look in triumph..." — Psalm 118:7  

Prayer  

O God, You are my Help—surely You are! Thank You for sustaining my life when all else fails. In my distress, uphold me with Your mighty hand. Deliver me from troubles, turn back every attack, and let me praise Your name in victory. Fill me with Your Holy Spirit, my constant Helper. May I trust You boldly, fear no evil, and live for Your glory. Through Jesus Christ, my Savior and Helper, Amen.

O' Lord, Let Thy People Rejoice Again : TWGN Devotional - 15th February

Memory Verse:  

Psalm 85:6 (KJV) – "Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?"

Meditation  

Take a quiet moment to reflect: Have seasons of hardship, disappointment, or spiritual dryness stolen your song? The psalmist knew such times after Israel's return from exile, when hope flickered but full restoration seemed distant. Yet he turned not to circumstances but to the Lord, asking for revival that leads to rejoicing in God Himself. Meditate on this: Joy is not merely the absence of sorrow but the presence of God reviving the soul. Let this truth settle—God delights to restore what has been lost, turning mourning into dancing, tears into shouts of gladness.

Beloved in Christ, life often brings seasons where joy feels distant. Trials, losses, sins, or prolonged waiting can leave the heart heavy, the spirit faint. In such moments, we echo the ancient prayer: "O' Lord, let Thy people rejoice again!" This devotion draws from the well of Scripture, particularly Psalm 85, where God's people, having tasted partial restoration, cry out for more—for a revival that ignites rejoicing not in fleeting things but in the Lord alone.

The Bible is filled with promises of restoration. From the captives returning to Zion in Psalm 14:7—"When the LORD bringeth back the captivity of his people, Jacob shall rejoice, and Israel shall be glad"—to the prophetic hope in Isaiah and the New Testament assurance in Christ, God is a restorer of joy. He does not leave His people in perpetual sorrow. Instead, He revives, renews, and causes rejoicing to spring forth like springs in the desert. Today, let us explore this theme deeply, allowing the Holy Spirit to stir our hearts toward fresh joy in our Savior.

 

The phrase "O' Lord, let Thy people rejoice again" resonates with the biblical narrative of cyclical despair and divine deliverance. In Psalm 85, the psalmist begins by thanking God for past favor: "Thou hast been favourable unto thy land: thou hast brought back the captivity of Jacob" (v.1). Yet, despite this, the people face ongoing struggles—perhaps lingering effects of sin, oppression, or spiritual lethargy. The plea in verse 6 is raw: "Wilt thou not revive us again: that thy people may rejoice in thee?"

"Revive us again" (Hebrew: chayah, meaning to make alive, preserve, quicken) implies a repeated action. God had revived them before—bringing them out of Egypt, through the wilderness, from Babylonian exile—but they needed it anew. Revival here is not emotional hype but spiritual quickening, a fresh infilling of God's life that restores vitality to the soul.

The purpose? "That thy people may rejoice in thee." Notice the object: in Thee, not in circumstances, blessings, or relief alone. True rejoicing is Godward. As Psalm 43:4 declares, "Then will I go unto the altar of God, unto God my exceeding joy." When God revives, joy returns because He Himself becomes the source.

This theme echoes throughout Scripture. In Psalm 30:5, "Weeping may endure for a night, but joy cometh in the morning." The night of discipline or trial gives way to morning joy. Joel 2:25 promises restoration after locust devastation: "I will restore to you the years that the locust hath eaten." Jesus Himself assures in John 16:22, "Ye now therefore have sorrow: but I will see you again, and your heart shall rejoice, and your joy no man taketh from you."

In the New Testament, Paul commands, "Rejoice in the Lord alway: and again I say, Rejoice" (Philippians 4:4). Even from prison, Paul rejoiced because his joy was anchored in Christ, not freedom or comfort. When sin dims joy—as with David in Psalm 51:12, "Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation"—repentance opens the door to renewal.

Restoration of joy often follows seasons of sowing in tears (Psalm 126:5-6): "They that sow in tears shall reap in joy. He that goeth forth and weepeth, bearing precious seed, shall doubtless come again with rejoicing, bringing his sheaves with him." God uses trials to deepen roots, producing enduring joy.

Zephaniah 3:17 paints a beautiful picture: "The LORD thy God in the midst of thee is mighty; he will save, he will rejoice over thee with joy; he will rest in his love, he will joy over thee with singing." Not only do we rejoice in God, but He rejoices over us! This mutual joy is the pinnacle of restoration.

In Christ, joy is secured eternally. Romans 15:13 prays, "Now the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that ye may abound in hope, through the power of the Holy Ghost." The Holy Spirit is the agent of revival, producing fruit like joy (Galatians 5:22).

Thus, "O' Lord, let Thy people rejoice again" is a prayer for personal and corporate revival—individual hearts renewed, churches awakened, nations touched by gospel hope. It acknowledges past mercies while hungering for present and future outpourings.

Today's Advice

1. Seek God in honest prayer. Like the psalmist, cry out specifically for revival. Confess anything quenching joy—sin, unbelief, bitterness—and ask God to revive you.

2. Anchor joy in Christ alone. Shift focus from circumstances to the unchanging Savior. Daily meditate on His finished work—forgiveness, adoption, eternal life.

3. Repent and return. If sin has stolen joy, follow David's path: confess, receive cleansing, and plead for restored joy (Psalm 51).

4. Sow in tears if needed. Persist in faithfulness even amid sorrow. God promises harvest of joy.

5. Gather with believers. Corporate worship and fellowship often spark revival. Encourage one another with psalms, hymns, and spiritual songs.

6. Feast on Scripture. Let God's Word dwell richly, renewing the mind and igniting joy.

7. Serve others. Joy multiplies when shared. Minister to the hurting; in giving, you receive.

Today's Food for Thought  

- What has dimmed your joy lately? Is it circumstantial, or deeper spiritual drift?  

- How might God be using current trials to prepare greater rejoicing?  

- If joy is found "in Thee," how can you cultivate deeper intimacy with God today?  

- Imagine your life revived—heart light, praise constant, testimony vibrant. What step will you take toward that vision?

 

At the core of restored joy is the gospel. We were captive to sin, separated from God, our hearts barren of true joy. But God, rich in mercy, sent His Son Jesus Christ. He lived perfectly, died on the cross bearing our sins, and rose victorious, conquering death. Through faith in Him, we are forgiven, reconciled, and filled with the Holy Spirit. This is the ultimate revival—dead sinners made alive in Christ (Ephesians 2:1-5). Joy springs from knowing we are loved, redeemed, and secure forever. No trial can steal this joy because it is rooted in Christ's unchanging victory. If you've never experienced this, turn to Jesus today—repent, believe, and receive the joy no one can take away.

Today's Word Quotes  

- "Rejoice in the Lord always: and again I say, Rejoice." – Philippians 4:4  

- "Restore unto me the joy of thy salvation; and uphold me with thy free spirit." – Psalm 51:12  

- "Thou hast turned for me my mourning into dancing: thou hast put off my sackcloth, and girded me with gladness." – Psalm 30:11  

- "I will greatly rejoice in the LORD, my soul shall be joyful in my God." – Isaiah 61:10  

- "The joy of the LORD is your strength." – Nehemiah 8:10  

Prayer

O' Lord, our merciful Father, we come before Thee humbly. Revive us again, we pray! Breathe fresh life into our weary souls, restore the joy of Thy salvation, and let Thy people rejoice in Thee once more. Turn our mourning into dancing, our tears into shouts of praise. May our hearts overflow with joy in Christ Jesus, our Savior. Forgive where we have wandered, strengthen where we are weak, and fill us anew with Thy Spirit. Let rejoicing rise in our homes, churches, and nation. In Jesus' mighty name, Amen.

Ezra's Restoration Efforts : TWGN Devotional - 24th February

Memory Verse:

Ezra 7:10 (NIV) – For Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the LORD, and to teaching its decrees and laws in Israel.

Meditation:  

Take a moment to ponder God's relentless commitment to restore what sin has broken. In the quiet, reflect on how He moves kings, stirs hearts, and revives His people even after long seasons of exile and compromise. Consider your own life: where has compromise dulled your devotion? Where does God desire to restore purity, obedience, and joyful worship? Let Ezra's example inspire you—his heart prepared by studying, practicing, and teaching God's Word. Breathe in God's grace that renews; release any resistance to His reforming work.

  

After seventy years of Babylonian exile, God's people faced a monumental task: returning to their homeland, rebuilding the temple, and reestablishing holy living amid a changed world. The book of Ezra chronicles this divine restoration, spanning roughly 80 years from 538 BC to around 458 BC. While the first return under Zerubbabel focused on physical rebuilding of the temple (Ezra 1–6), Ezra himself— a skilled scribe, priest, and descendant of Aaron—led the second wave, emphasizing spiritual renewal through the Law of God (Ezra 7–10). Ezra's restoration efforts were not merely administrative; they were deeply spiritual, aimed at purifying the community, renewing covenant faithfulness, and ensuring the returned exiles lived as a holy people set apart for God. His work bridged physical return with heartfelt reformation, showing that true restoration begins and ends with obedience to God's Word. In an age of spiritual drift, Ezra's story calls believers today to pursue similar devotion: studying Scripture diligently, living it faithfully, and teaching it boldly for the renewal of God's people.

 

Ezra's restoration efforts unfold against the backdrop of God's sovereign faithfulness to His promises. The exile had fulfilled prophecies of judgment (Jer. 25:11-12), but God also promised restoration (Jer. 29:10). In 538 BC, Cyrus king of Persia—moved by God—issued a decree allowing the Jews to return and rebuild the temple (Ezra 1:1-4), fulfilling Isaiah's prophecy naming Cyrus centuries earlier (Isa. 44:28–45:1). This first return under Zerubbabel and Jeshua saw about 42,360 exiles journey back (Ezra 2), rebuild the altar, resume sacrifices, and lay the temple foundation amid mixed joy and sorrow (Ezra 3). Opposition from surrounding peoples halted progress for years (Ezra 4), but God intervened through prophecies of Haggai and Zechariah, and confirmation from Darius (Ezra 5–6). The temple was completed and dedicated in 515 BC, followed by Passover celebration (Ezra 6:13-22).

About 60 years later, around 458 BC, Ezra emerged as the key figure in the second return. Described as "a teacher well versed in the Law of Moses" (Ezra 7:6), he received favor from Artaxerxes, who granted him authority, resources, and a letter empowering him to appoint magistrates, enforce the Law, and fund temple worship (Ezra 7:11-26). Ezra gathered priests, Levites, and others, fasting and praying for safe journey without military escort, trusting God's protection (Ezra 8). They arrived safely, offered sacrifices, and delivered offerings (Ezra 8:31-36).

Ezra's deepest work was spiritual reformation. Upon learning that many returned exiles, including leaders, had intermarried with surrounding peoples—violating God's commands and risking idolatry (Ezra 9:1-2; cf. Deut. 7:3-4)—he was devastated. He tore his clothes, pulled his hair, sat in mourning, and prayed a profound confession (Ezra 9:6-15). Identifying with the people's sin ("we have been most unfaithful"), he acknowledged God's mercy in preserving a remnant despite deserved punishment. This prayer moved the people; they gathered, wept, and resolved to separate from foreign wives (Ezra 10:1-4). A commission investigated cases, and the community covenanted to put away these marriages, though painfully (Ezra 10:5-44).

Ezra's efforts restored three vital elements: the temple (physical worship center, completed earlier but sustained), the Torah (God's Word as guide), and the people (holy community). His motto in Ezra 7:10—preparing his heart to study, practice, and teach the Law—defined his ministry. He led public Scripture reading (later in Neh. 8), fostering revival through obedience. Challenges included opposition, internal compromise, and cultural pressures, yet God's hand was evident: stirring kings, protecting travelers, and softening hearts.

Ezra foreshadows greater restoration in Christ. Sin exiled humanity from God's presence, but Jesus—the ultimate Scribe and Priest—restores us through His blood, teaching God's will, purifying His bride (the church), and building a spiritual temple (Eph. 2:19-22; 1 Pet. 2:5). Ezra's work reminds us that restoration is God's initiative, accomplished through leaders devoted to His Word, and requires repentance, separation from sin, and covenant renewal.

 

Pursue Ezra-like restoration in your walk with God. First, devote yourself to God's Word—study it deeply, obey it personally, teach it humbly. Second, grieve over sin in your life and community; don't minimize compromise. Confess boldly, as Ezra did, owning shared brokenness. Third, seek God's favor in prayer and fasting before big steps—trust Him for protection and provision. Fourth, lead or support renewal efforts in your church: encourage Scripture-centered teaching, accountability in holiness, and separation from worldly entanglements. Fifth, persevere through opposition or slow progress; God's sovereignty turns hearts and overcomes barriers. Sixth, celebrate milestones—dedicate efforts to God with worship and joy. Finally, pray regularly for spiritual awakening in your family, church, and nation, asking God to stir hearts as He did Cyrus and Artaxerxes.

Food for Thought: 

- Where in your life has "intermarriage" with the world—compromised values, unequal yoking—hindered holiness?  

- Ezra mourned sin publicly; how comfortable are you grieving over personal or corporate unfaithfulness?  

- If God's Word is the key to restoration, how much time do you invest in studying, practicing, and sharing it?  

- God used foreign kings for His purposes—what unlikely sources might He use for renewal today?  

- True restoration brings joy in obedience; what covenant renewal might God be calling you to make?

Ezra's story of restoration points to the ultimate restoration through Jesus Christ. Sin led to exile from God's presence, breaking fellowship and leaving us in spiritual ruin. But God, in sovereign mercy, sent His Son to fulfill every promise. Jesus, the perfect Priest and Teacher, not only studied and obeyed the Law but fulfilled it completely (Matt. 5:17). On the cross, He bore the punishment of our unfaithfulness, tearing down the barrier of sin. Through His resurrection, He rebuilds us as a holy temple, purifies His people from compromise, and invites all to return to God. The Gospel offers complete restoration: repent of sin, believe in Christ's finished work, and enter renewed life in Him. No exile is permanent; in Jesus, God gathers the scattered, forgives the unfaithful, and establishes an eternal kingdom of joy and obedience.

Today's Word Quotes:  

- "The LORD stirred up the spirit of Cyrus king of Persia..." (Ezra 1:1) — God's sovereignty initiates restoration.  

- "Ezra had devoted himself to the study and observance of the Law of the LORD..." (Ezra 7:10) — The heart of true renewal.  

- "I am too ashamed and disgraced... for our sins are higher than our heads..." (Ezra 9:6) — Honest confession opens the door to mercy.  

- "The hand of our God was on us..." (Ezra 8:31) — Divine protection in the journey of return.  

- "They all... put away their foreign wives..." (Ezra 10:44, summary) — Radical obedience seals covenant renewal.

Prayer:  

Gracious Father, thank You for Your faithful restoration in Ezra's day and in ours through Christ. Stir our hearts as You stirred kings—awaken us to study, obey, and teach Your Word. Forgive our compromises; grant us courage to repent and separate from sin. Protect and empower us in renewal efforts. May Your church shine as a holy people, glorifying You. In Jesus' name, our great Restorer. Amen.

Nehemiah Love Jerusalem : TWGN Devotional - 13th February

Memory Verse:  

Nehemiah 2:17 (NIV) – "Then I said to them, 'You see the trouble we are in: Jerusalem lies in ruins, and its gates have been burned with fire. Come, let us rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, and we will no longer be in disgrace.'"

Meditation:  

Pause and consider the things that stir your spirit with holy unrest. Picture the broken places in God's kingdom—the neglected souls, the weakened church, the dishonor to His name in our world. Allow Nehemiah's tears to mirror your own heart. Ask the Holy Spirit to awaken a deep, covenant love for what God treasures: His people gathered in safety, worshiping in purity, reflecting His glory. Breathe in His compassion; exhale complacency. Let this meditation move you from distant observation to personal investment.

  

The book of Nehemiah unveils a remarkable story of restoration driven by one man's profound love for Jerusalem. In 445 BC, over a century after the Babylonian exile began, the city of God's choosing remained exposed and shamed. Its walls—symbols of protection, identity, and divine honor—lay in rubble, gates charred, people vulnerable. While many had accepted this as the new normal, Nehemiah, a trusted servant in the Persian court far away, could not. News of Jerusalem's distress shattered his composure. His response was not anger or resignation but deep sorrow, fervent prayer, bold request, and tireless labor. This "Nehemiah love Jerusalem" is a passionate, God-centered affection that sees ruin not as final but as a divine invitation to partnership. It reflects the heart of God who never abandons His promises or His people. Through Nehemiah's example, we discover how love for God's city—literal in his day, spiritual in ours—fuels prayer, courage, unity, and enduring work amid fierce resistance. This devotion invites us to embrace such love today, for the church as the new Jerusalem, for lost communities, and for the honor of God's name worldwide.

  

Nehemiah's love for Jerusalem was covenant-rooted, grief-driven, prayer-fueled, action-oriented, and opposition-overcoming. It began in Susa, the Persian winter capital, where Nehemiah served as cupbearer to King Artaxerxes—a position of influence and proximity to power, yet his heart remained tethered to Zion. When his brother Hanani and others arrived with grim tidings—"The survivors there in the province who had returned from exile are in great trouble and disgrace. The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire" (Neh. 1:3)—Nehemiah's world shifted. This was no casual update; it struck at the core of God's covenant with Israel. Jerusalem was chosen as the place where God's name would dwell (Deut. 12:5; 1 Kings 8:29). Broken walls meant vulnerability to enemies, mockery of God's reputation among nations, and hindrance to worship. The reproach was not merely physical but spiritual—the people of God appeared forsaken.

Nehemiah's immediate reaction reveals authentic love: "When I heard these things, I sat down and wept. For some days I mourned and fasted and prayed before the God of heaven" (Neh. 1:4). This was prolonged, intense mourning—days of fasting, tears, and supplication. Unlike superficial sympathy, his grief identified fully with the suffering: he confessed not only national sins but included himself ("We have acted very wickedly toward you," Neh. 1:7). His prayer (Neh. 1:5-11) is a masterpiece: adoration of God's covenant-keeping character ("the great and awesome God, who keeps his covenant of love"), remembrance of promises to Moses, confession of rebellion, and bold plea for favor based on God's mercy. Love here is intercessory—standing in the gap, owning the fault, claiming redemption.

This love propelled risk. Appearing sad before the king could cost his life (Neh. 2:1), yet Nehemiah prayed silently and spoke courageously. God granted favor: leave, safe passage, timber, and letters (Neh. 2:8). Upon arrival, Nehemiah acted discreetly—night inspection of ruins (Neh. 2:11-16)—to assess without alarming. Then, vision-sharing: "You see the trouble we are in... Come, let us rebuild" (Neh. 2:17). The people responded, "Let us start rebuilding" (Neh. 2:18)—unity born of shared burden.

The work faced relentless opposition: ridicule from Sanballat, Tobiah, and Geshem ("What is this you are doing? Are you rebelling?" Neh. 2:19); conspiracy to attack (Neh. 4:7-8); mockery ("Even a fox climbing up on it would break down their wall," Neh. 4:3); internal fatigue ("The strength of the laborers is giving out," Neh. 4:10); economic injustice among Jews (Neh. 5); personal threats and false prophecies (Neh. 6). Nehemiah's love sustained perseverance: half worked, half guarded with weapons (Neh. 4:16-18); he refused personal privileges as governor (Neh. 5:14-18); he countered lies with prayer ("Remember Tobiah and Sanballat... O my God," Neh. 6:14); completion in 52 days (Neh. 6:15) astonished enemies—"they were afraid and lost their self-confidence, because they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God" (Neh. 6:16).

Beyond physical walls, Nehemiah's love extended to spiritual renewal: public Scripture reading (Neh. 8), confession (Neh. 9), covenant renewal (Neh. 10), repopulation (Neh. 11), dedication with joy (Neh. 12), and reforms against compromise (Neh. 13). His love was holistic—physical security enabling spiritual flourishing.

This foreshadows Christ's love. Jesus lamented over Jerusalem: "Jerusalem, Jerusalem... how often I have longed to gather your children... but you were not willing" (Matt. 23:37). He wept (Luke 19:41), cleansed the temple (John 2:13-17), and died to rebuild the true temple—His body, the church (John 2:19-21; Eph. 2:19-22). Today, the "Jerusalem" we love is the body of Christ scattered globally, vulnerable to division, compromise, and cultural assault. Nehemiah teaches that love for God's city grieves sin, prays persistently, mobilizes community, works diligently, and glorifies God through completion.

  

Embrace Nehemiah-style love practically. First, stay informed—ask about the state of God's work in your church, city, and world; don't ignore bad reports. Second, let holy grief move you—fast, weep, confess personally and corporately. Third, pray covenantally—praise God's faithfulness, recall promises, confess sins, plead for mercy and favor. Fourth, act boldly—identify your "ruins" (broken relationships, weak ministries, unreached neighbors), seek God's opening, take calculated steps. Fifth, build with others—rally, delegate, encourage; half build, half defend. Sixth, persevere through opposition—pray against discouragement, refuse compromise, maintain integrity. Seventh, celebrate completion and pursue ongoing renewal—dedicate efforts to God, guard against relapse. Daily, pray for the peace of Jerusalem (Ps. 122:6) and the church's flourishing. Let love drive service, not convenience.

Today's Food for Thought:  

- What "broken walls" in your life or community cause you genuine sorrow, or have you grown numb?  

- If God's glory is mocked by disunity or compromise today, how does that burden your heart?  

- Nehemiah risked comfort for restoration—what comfort are you willing to risk for God's purposes?  

- In 52 days, impossible became reality— what timeline is God challenging you to trust Him for?  

- How can your love for God's people mirror Christ's sacrificial gathering?

  

Nehemiah's story points to the ultimate Rebuilder—Jesus Christ. Humanity's sin shattered the walls between us and God, leaving us in disgrace, exposed to judgment, unable to approach His presence. Jerusalem's ruin pictures our spiritual exile. But God, rich in mercy, sent His Son. Jesus surveyed our brokenness, wept over it, and took the ultimate risk—bearing our reproach on the cross. Through His death and resurrection, He rebuilds the wall: reconciling us to God, forming us into a holy temple where the Spirit dwells (1 Cor. 3:16; Eph. 2:14-22). The Gospel declares: no ruin is beyond repair in Christ. Repent of self-reliance, believe in His finished work, and enter the new Jerusalem—secure, honored, eternal. This is God's passionate love rebuilding what sin destroyed, inviting all to dwell in His presence forever.

Today's Word Quotes:  

- "The wall of Jerusalem is broken down, and its gates have been burned with fire." (Neh. 1:3) — Recognition of ruin stirs love.  

- "O Lord... give your servant success today by granting him favor..." (Neh. 1:11) — Prayer claims God's covenant love.  

- "The God of heaven will give us success; we his servants will start rebuilding..." (Neh. 2:20) — Confidence in divine help.  

- "So the wall was completed... in fifty-two days." (Neh. 6:15) — Testimony of love's victory through God.  

- "They were afraid and lost their self-confidence, because they realized that this work had been done with the help of our God." (Neh. 6:16) — Opposition silenced by God's power.

Prayer: 

Lord of heaven, kindle in us Nehemiah's deep love for Jerusalem—Your dwelling place, Your people, Your glory. Break our hearts over brokenness, drive us to prayer and fasting, grant us favor and courage to rebuild. Protect us in opposition, unite us in labor, complete Your work through us. May Your name be honored in every restored life and community. In the name of Jesus, our great Rebuilder. Amen.