Saturday, March 16, 2024.YOUR REDEMPTION IS NEARScripture for Today: Luke 21:28 (NET) But when these things begin to happen, stand up and raise your heads, because your redemption is drawing near.Word for TodaySometimes, it seems as if people pass through a long and rough journey before arriving at their destination. Some people face inexplicable challenges, fight strange and long lasting wars before settling down or entering into their rest. It is possible that you have been praying and expecting results without seeing any in sight. Consequently, you have started living in despair or become discouraged because of the challenges and the delays. Don’t be discouraged. It is true that hope deferred makes the heart sick; but when desires are fulfilled, it is a tree of life (Provs. 13:12). Anyone who lacks true understanding of God’s programmes, times and seasons will naturally be discouraged. That is why today’s Scripture tells you to stand up and look up because challenges or difficulties precede change or blessing. Last week’s topic exhorts believers to be bold and excited in the face of the trials and troubles that will befall the world. His counsel reveals the fact that celestial, terrestrial and marine signs and commotions shall precede His next appearance and the redemption (deliverance) of God’s faithful. The Word of God offers believers a proper perspective and understanding of the signs and judgment that shall take place in the world before the anticipated deliverance. It is important for you to understand this message because it will change your attitude, as well as strengthen your faith and confidence in the Lord’s counsel. The third statement of interest by the Lord in that passage is that your redemption is near. That word is the core of our message today; Your deliverance is near. Beloved, God told Abraham that He will deliver his descendants from Egypt after four hundred years. When the Israelites started praying and expecting it, it was as if the deliverance would never happen; but it did happen at God’s appointed time. Abraham almost gave up hope, but waited long for the promised son; he was not disappointed. David, the great Psalmist of Israel and the man after God’s heart, is another practical example of someone who patiently stood on God’s Word in order to see the fulfillment of God’s promise. David’s experience shortly before he returned to rule Israel looked hopeless. He lost his entire family and wealth to invaders. It was as if the call of God exposed him to unfortunate events. But at the end, God redeemed him from all the challenges and delays and fulfilled His promise to him. Is there something you have been believing God for or something you are expecting that appears elusive? Are the things happening on earth troubling your heart? Is your desired goal or breakthrough suffering inexplicable delay? Are you fighting an endless battle no one understands? Don’t worry. Be encouraged. Your victory and deliverance will soon manifest and your glory revealed. Just stand up as the Lord said and look up because your redemption, deliverance, manifestation and blessings are about to become a reality. Hallelujah! Decision: Nothing shall make me lose confidence in the Lord. I shall boldly and patiently wait for God’s deliverance and my manifestation. Prayer: Dear Lord Jesus, give me the grace to persevere in faith until your word is fulfilled in my life and this world. Declaration: You shall never be disappointed. Receive your deliverance God bless you.Pastor Alex Obioha.