Monday, 20th October, 2025
Bible Reading: Matthew 5: 13-16
Memory Verse: You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” Matthew 5: 13–16
Other lessons from the relationship between John Newton and Wilberforce include:
Spiritual Lesson 4: God’s Timing is Perfect for Every Calling: Wilberforce came to Christ in a time of political prominence, while Newton was already in ministry after years of personal failure. Despite the gap in age and experience, God synchronized their paths for a greater Kingdom assignment. Wilberforce, a parliamentarian used his influence to abolish the transatlantic slave trade. “There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens.” (Ecclesiastes 3:1). God never wastes time. He aligns people and seasons for His glory. Be patient with the process.
Spiritual Lesson 5: Faith Must Influence Every Sphere—Even Politics. Wilberforce struggled with the idea that faith and politics should mix. But Newton helped him see that the Kingdom of God must permeate every area, even government and social reform. “You are the salt of the earth… You are the light of the world… let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.” (Matthew 5:13–16). Don’t compartmentalise your faith. Whether you’re in politics, business, education, or art, your light must shine everywhere.
Spiritual Lesson 6: Legacy Begins with One Yes: Both Newton and Wilberforce said “yes” to God’s call – Newton to repentance and ministry, Wilberforce to justice and advocacy. Their obedience sparked a movement that changed history. “If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land.” (Isaiah 1:19). God doesn’t need many. He just needs one willing heart. Your yes can shift generations.
Spiritual Lesson 7: Perseverance Is Fuelled by Purpose and Support. Wilberforce fought for decades in the Parliament before the Slave Trade Act was passed in 1807. He faced ridicule, threats, and depression. But with spiritual mentors like Newton and a solid faith, he kept going. “Let us not grow weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (Galatians 6:9). Surround yourself with people who keep you focused when you’re fatigued.
Quote: As long as you are born again, you have an assignment. Anywhere God places you is your ministry.
Prophetic Decree: May your answer to the call of God shift many generations, in Jesus name.
Prayer Focus
1. My Father, the owner of times and seasons, align people and seasons for the revelation of your glory in my life, in Jesus name.
2. I receive grace to be a man of faith and influence either in politics, business, education, or art, in Jesus name.
3. Holy Spirit, surround me with people who will keep me focused when I’m fatigued, in Jesus name.
4. I receive grace not to hide my past, but to use it to awaken others to truth, in Jesus name.
5. Holy Spirit, please make me a conduit of God’s work in my generation, in Jesus name.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Matthew 16, Mark 8
