Tuesday, 21st October, 2025
Bible Reading: Luke 18:1, 1 Thessalonians 5:16
Memory Verse: …the earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]. James 5:16b (AMPC)
Shall we round off today on lessons from the duo of Wilberforce and John Newton as God-ordained relationship:
Spiritual Lesson 8: Your Story Can Be Someone Else’s Breakthrough. Newton’s testimony – his dark past and radical transformation – gave Wilberforce a compelling moral voice to reference in Parliament. Newton didn’t hide his past, he used it to awaken others to truth. “They triumphed over him by the blood of the Lamb and by the word of their testimony…” (Revelation 12:11). Don’t bury your testimony. What God brought you through can become the message that brings someone else out.
Spiritual Lesson 9: Humility Makes You a Conduit for God’s Work. Though Newton had every reason to boast about his influence and transformation, he remained humble. His epitaph read: “Once an infidel and libertine, a servant of slaves in Africa, was by the rich mercy of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ preserved, restored, pardoned, and appointed to preach the faith he had long laboured to destroy.” “God opposes the proud but shows favour to the humble.” (James 4:6).
Spiritual Lesson 10: Intercession Sustains Purpose. Behind Wilberforce’s long political battle was constant prayer – his own and that of others like Newton. Newton didn’t just advise him once and disappear. He continued to pray, write, and encourage Wilberforce through every trial. “The prayer of a righteous person is powerful and effective.” (James 5:16b). Every calling needs intercessors. Do you have people praying for your purpose?
Spiritual Lesson 11: Spiritual Foundations Produce Public Strength. Wilberforce had a deep private relationship with God -daily Bible reading, prayer, worship, and spiritual accountability. It was this inner life that gave him strength to face public challenges. “But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen…” (Matthew 6:6). Public battles are won in private devotion. Build your altar before you take the platform.
Spiritual Lesson 12: Light Shines Brightest in Darkness. The political system of Wilberforce’s day was deeply corrupt, and the slave trade was supported by both economics and culture. Yet, he didn’t shrink back. His persistence proved that God’s light can pierce any darkness no matter how thick. “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (John 1:5). Be bold. When God calls you to speak truth, do it – even when it’s unpopular.
Quote: Pray for yourself and have people praying for you if you must fulfil destiny.
Prophetic Decree: May old ashes be blown off for fresh fire of God to come upon your altar, in Jesus name.
Prayer Focus
1. I receive grace to know when and how to share my testimony of the wonders of God in my life for many to be blessed, in Jesus name.
2. I receive grace to persevere on the altar of prayers, in Jesus name.
3. O Lord, please raise up intercessors for my destiny, in Jesus name.
4. Declare: My life shall not lack help, in the name of Jesus.
5. Holy Spirit, please help me to live a rich full life of your goodness and faithfulness, in Jesus name.
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR: Matthew 17, Mark 9
