Wednesday 20th August, 2025
Bible Reading: Acts 13:36
Memory Verse: For David, after serving his own generation in God’s plan, fell asleep, was buried with his fathers, and decayed. Acts 13:36 (HCSB)
Lester Sumrall (February 15, 1913 – April 28, 1996) was an American Pentecostal pastor, evangelist, teacher, and missionary. He was born in New Orleans, Louisiana, to George and Betty Sumrall. His mother was a strong Christian who prayed for him to be a preacher. At 16, he dropped out of school and shortly after was diagnosed with tuberculosis. He began preaching at 17 after recovering from tuberculosis. He founded a church in Arkansas at 19.
He was ordained by the Assemblies of God. He traveled abroad extensively, preaching in numerous countries. He founded World Harvest Bible College (now Indiana Christian University) and World Harvest Magazine. His vision from God in 1985 emphasized a three-pronged ministry: feeding the hungry, teaching pastors, and open evangelistic meetings. He acquired television stations, forming World Harvest Television (LeSEA Broadcasting); ministered in 110 countries and wrote over 130 books.
Wikipedia reports that in 1968, Sumrall began what would become World Harvest Missionary Evangelism (WHME-FM). Sumrall has been called the “father of Christian television”. From 1972 to 1997, he acquired television stations throughout the United States as part of World Harvest Television (also known as LeSEA Broadcasting). In 1987, Sumrall established a humanitarian aid organization, LeSEA Global Feed the Hungry. Sumrall wrote many works during his lifetime ranging from topics such as evangelism, miraculous healing, demons and exorcism, angels, and more.
One significant account of a miracle in Lester Sumrall’s ministry is the deliverance of Clarita Villanueva from demonic entities in the Philippines in 1953. This event garnered national attention and was reported in newspapers. It was said that the 17-year-old girl was delivered from tormenting attacks, including bite marks, by “invisible forces.” This deliverance was followed by a significant spiritual awakening in Manila, with reports of 150,000 people accepting Christ. Sumrall himself documented this event in his book “Bitten by Devils.”
Challenge: Wait a minute! When you die, what shall be said of you? Think posterity!
Quote: No one is remembered for what he had, but for what he added. Let your living count.
Prophetic Decree: May your life count, in the name of Jesus.
Prayer Focus
1. Thank you Father because You’re the author of life.
2. Today, I ask for grace to walk in the fulfilment of my divine destiny, in Jesus name.
3. O Lord, please give me grace to make impact, all to your glory, in Jesus name.
4. Wisdom from above, overshadow my life, in Jesus name.
5. Power of the Cross, cross out my selfish ambitions and re-align me to my destiny fulfilment and purpose, in Jesus name.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Habakkuk 1-3
