CAC Oke-Iyanu

16/08/2026

15/08/2026

CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH
[Nigeria and Overseas]

THE LIVING WATER [January-December, 2026]

DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE:
Saturday, 15th August, 2026

TOPIC:
CROSS WITHOUT SHAME (I)

MEMORISE

And he who does not take his cross and follow after Me is not worthy of Me (Matthew 10:38).

READ:
Luke 9:23-27

[23]. Then He said to them all, “If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow Me.

[24]. For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake will save it.

[25]. For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and is himself destroyed or lost?

[26]. For whoever is ashamed of Me and My words, of him the Son of Man will be ashamed when He comes in His own glory, and in His Father’s, and of the holy angels.

[27]. But I tell you truly, there are some standing here who shall not taste death till they see the kingdom of God.”

EXPOSITION

In life, people enjoy work when it gives them joy and rewards. But carrying the cross as a follower of Christ is different -- it is often tough and uncomfortable. In Roman times, the cross was used as a punishment for slaves and criminals. It symbolised shame and suffering. Jesus, even though He was innocent, endured this punishment. He carried His cross through the streets of Jerusalem, hearing insults and being mocked. He suffered and died the shameful death of a criminal. Why? Because He loved us and came to save us. He gave His life so that we could have eternal life.

Jesus calls everyone who wants to follow Him to deny themselves and take up their cross daily. This means we must put aside our own desires and be ready to face challenges and sacrifices for Him. Carrying the cross may bring rejection or hardship, but it also shows our true commitment to Christ.

True discipleship is about accepting the cost of following Jesus. If we refuse to carry our cross, we are not truly His followers. The cross teaches us to trust Him and remain loyal, no matter the circumstances.

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord, help me to take up my cross daily and follow You.

2. Give me the boldness to spread Your gospel without fear, O Lord.

3. Lord Jesus, help believers to find confidence and safety in Your Cross as they follow You unreservedly.

SUGGESTED HYMN FOR TODAY:
CACGHB: 776

L M

1. Take up thy cross, the Saviour said,
If thou wouldst my disciples be;
Deny thyself, the world forsake,
And humble follow after me.

2. Take up thy cross: let not its weight
Fill thy weak spirit with alarm;
His str'nght shall bear thy spirit up,
And brace thy heart, and nerve thine arm.

3. Take up thy cross: nor heed the shame,
Nor let thy foolish pride rebel;
Thy Lord for thee the Cross endured
To save thy soul from death and hell.

4. Take up thy cross then in His strength,
And calmly every danger brave;
Twill guide thee to a better home,
And lead to victory o'er the grave.

5. Take up thy cross, and follow Christ,
Nor think till death to lay it down;
For only he who bears the cross
May hope to wear the glorious crown.

6. To Thee, Great Lord, the One in Three,
All praise for evermore ascend;
O grant us in our Hope to see
The heav'nly life that knows no end.

Amen.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY:
Isaiah 46-49

AUTHOR
CAC, Christian Education Department.

Stay blessed and fruitful for the glory of God.

14/08/2026

CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH
[Nigeria and Overseas]

THE LIVING WATER [January-December, 2026]

DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE:
Friday, 14th August, 2026
[National Financial Awareness Day]

TOPIC:
THE WISDOM OF FINANCIAL PLANNING

MEMORISE

The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, but those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty (Proverbs 21:5).

READ:
Proverbs 21:5

[5]. The plans of the diligent lead surely to plenty, but those of everyone who is hasty, surely to poverty.

EXPOSITION

On this National Financial Awareness Day, we need a reminder that financial planning is essential for wise living. The Bible teaches that diligent planning leads to prosperity, while careless decisions lead to poverty. Many rush into financial decisions without proper thought, resulting in waste and struggles. However, careful planning allows us to make smarter, informed choices that honour God.

Diligent planning involves budgeting, saving and prioritising needs over wants. It helps us avoid profligacy or making impulsive purchases that can lead to debt. Financial prudence enables us to use resources wisely, ensuring we meet our needs and are generous to others.

Our text reminds us that success comes from intentional, thoughtful decisions. Planning with care helps us to be good stewards of the resources God has given us.

As we plan, we must remember that God is the Source of all provision. We should trust Him with our finances and seek His guidance in every decision. Diligent planning is an act of faith, trusting that God will provide as we honour Him with our resources.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, grant me wisdom to plan my finances diligently.

2. Help me, Father, to avoid hastiness and wastefulness in financial matters.

3. Teach me, Oh Lord, to trust You for provision as 1 steward resources wisely.

SUGGESTED HYMN FOR TODAY:
CACGHB: Var 1

12 12 10 11 10 4

1. O Bless our homes and family, and our brethren/ 2ce
The blessing of heaven and Thy divine help
Thy blessing of heaven, O give unto us all
Now give unto us, in this world and heav'n Father of heav'n.

2. Now refresh us, powerful Lord and care for us /2ce
With Thy comfort Lord, and
Thy perfect peace
With Thy presev'd care, O Lord take care of us.
We beseech Thee Lord, to answer our pray'rs Glorious King.

3. Father give us Holy Spirit and Thy power/ 2ce
Thou Servant of heav'n, and the gift from heav'n
The comfort of Father come into our hearts
Let Him dwell in us, and give us
Thy joy King of heaven.

4. We give praises and thanks unto heav'nly Father /2ce
Praise for present help. And for Thy mercies
And the joy for sparing our lives day by day
We give thanks to Thee, and we honour Thee
Thou our Father.

Amen.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY:
Isaiah 43-45

AUTHOR
CAC, Christian Education Department.

Stay blessed and fruitful for the glory of God.

13/08/2026

CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH
[Nigeria and Overseas]

THE LIVING WATER [January-December, 2026]

DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE:
Thursday, 13th August, 2026

TOPIC:
YOU ARE AN INFLUENCER (II)

MEMORISE

Imitate me, just as I also imitate Christ (1 Corinthians 11:1).

READ:
John 21:1-3

[1]. After these things Jesus showed Himself again to the disciples at the Sea of Tiberias, and in this way He showed Himself:

[2]. Simon Peter, Thomas called the Twin, Nathanael of Cana in Galilee, the sons of Zebedee, and two others of His disciples were together.

[3]. Simon Peter said to them, “I am going fishing.” They said to him, “We are going with you also.” They went out and immediately got into the boat, and that night they caught nothing.

EXPOSITION

In John 21, Peter, a leading disciple, decided to go fishing, and other disciples followed him, even though he had not instructed them to do so. His influence as a leader caused others to follow him. This illustrates the power of influence, whether intentional or not.

Jehu chose to follow the ungodly king Jeroboam's sinful ways. By doing so, Jehu not only led himself astray but also caused Israel to suffer under God's judgement. Both the bad influencer and their followers paid the price. This reveals the grave penalties of negative influence. It is even more critical in our present age of rapid communication and online platforms. Social media influencers shape opinions, values and behaviours. Examine the content you consume, share and support. What is your influence on others?

The influence of a leader can affect an entire nation. Jehu's failure brought calamity to Israel, but leaders who follow Christ bring blessings and transformation to their generation and beyond. Whether in your church, workplace, or family, use your influence to guide others towards God's truth. Influence is not just about power; it is about responsibility.

May God help us to reflect His love and truth in all our actions. Let your words and deeds point others to Christ, ensuring that your life brings glory to Him.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, empower me to use my influence to glorify You and lead others in Your ways.

2. Father, protect our youth from the grip of harmful and immoral influencers.

3. Pray for the CAC Ministers Wives Fellowship, our mother, the leader, other officers and members as led by the Holy Spirit.

SUGGESTED HYMN FOR TODAY:
CACGHB: 816

10 10 10 7 & Ref

1. Though the world allure with its gilded charm,
I'm a child of God, whom it cannot harm;
He will me uphold by His mighty arm,
Every moment of my day.

Chorus:
I've a friend who will ev'ry need supply,
I've a home far beyond the starry sky,
And you know, that is just the reason why,
I am singing Hallelujah!

2. I can ne'er forget how upon the tree
Laid the son of God, there to die for me;
Yet to save my soul, thus it had to be,
There could be no other way.

3. I would e'er be true to my Lord and King,
Every waking hour praise to Him sing,
Knowing that at last He my soul shall bring,
Ever more with Him to stay.

Amen.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY:
Isaiah 40-42

AUTHOR
CAC, Christian Education Department.

Stay blessed and fruitful for the glory of God.

12/08/2026

CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH
[Nigeria and Overseas]

THE LIVING WATER [January-December, 2026]

DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE:
Wednesday, 12th August, 2026
[International Youth Day]

TOPIC:
YOU ARE AN INFLUENCER (I)

MEMORISE

But Jehu took no heed to walk in the law of the Lord God of Israel with all his heart; for he did not depart from the sins of Jeroboam, who made Israel to sin (2 Kings 10:31).

READ:
2 Kings 10:28-36

[28]. Thus Jehu destroyed Baal from Israel.

[29]. However Jehu did not turn away from the sins of Jeroboam the son of Nebat, who had made Israel sin, that is, from the golden calves that were at Bethel and Dan.

[30]. And the Lord said to Jehu, “Because you have done well in doing what is right in My sight, and have done to the house of Ahab all that was in My heart, your sons shall sit on the throne of Israel to the fourth generation.”

[31]. But Jehu took no heed to walk in the law of the Lord God of Israel with all his heart; for he did not depart from the sins of Jeroboam, who had made Israel sin.

[32]. In those days the Lord began to cut off parts of Israel; and Hazael conquered them in all the territory of Israel

[33]. from the Jordan eastward: all the land of Gilead—Gad, Reuben, and Manasseh—from Aroer, which is by the River Arnon, including Gilead and Bashan.

[34]. Now the rest of the acts of Jehu, all that he did, and all his might, are they not written in the book of the chronicles of the kings of Israel?

[35]. So Jehu rested with his fathers, and they buried him in Samaria. Then Jehoahaz his son reigned in his place.

[36]. And the period that Jehu reigned over Israel in Samaria was twenty-eight years.

EXPOSITION

On this International Youth Day, think about how your life influences others. Whether we realise it or not, our actions leave an impact. Some use their influence for good, while others cause harm. Jeroboam king of Israel, was remembered not for achievements but for leading the people into sin through idol worship (1 Kgs. 12:28). His choices created a legacy of disobedience.

Jehu, another king, began his reign well but failed to fully follow God's law. He allowed the sins of Jeroboam to continue leading others astray instead of encouraging them to serve God. These stories show us the great power of influence.

Today, influence spreads faster than ever especially on social media. What you share, follow, or like can inspire others -- or mislead them. Paul reminds us to follow only those who live by Christ's example (1 Cor. 11:1). This teaches us to be mindful of who we allow to influence us and how we influence others.

Your choices matter. Are you guiding others closer to God or leading them away? Influence is both a gift and a responsibility. Use it to uplift others and build their faith.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, help me to be a positive influence on everyone who looks up to me.

2. Father, guide me to follow only those who live faithfully for Christ

3. Pray for more of God's power and presence in CAC Akiling Region, in the life of our father, the Regional Superintendent, other officers and members at various levels, in Jesus' name.

SUGGESTED HYMN FOR TODAY:
CACGHB: 633

11 11 11 11 & Ref

1. Yield not to temptation, for yielding is sin
Each victory will help you some other to Win
Fight manfully onward, dark passions subdue.
Look ever to Jesus, He'll carry you through,

Chorus:
Ask the Saviour to help you
Comfort, strengthen and keep you.
He is willing to aid you
He will carry you through.

2. Shun evil companions, bad language disdain
God's name hold in reverence, not take it in vain,
Be thoughtful and earnest, kind hearted and true,
Look ever to Jesus, He'll carry you through.

3. To him that o'er cometh, God giveth a crown.
Through faith we shall conquer,
though often cast down,
He who is our Saviour, our strength will renew
Look ever to Jesus, He'll carry you through.

Amen.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY:
Isaiah 37-39

AUTHOR
CAC, Christian Education Department.

Stay blessed and fruitful for the glory of God.

11/08/2026

CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH
[Nigeria and Overseas]

THE LIVING WATER [January-December, 2026]

DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE:
Tuesday, 11th August, 2026

TOPIC:
LIFE IS NOT A GAMBLE

MEMORISE

What will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? (Mark 8:36).

READ:
Mark 8:36-37

[36]. For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?

[37]. Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?

EXPOSITION

Life is truly a precious gift from God, meant to be cherished and lived in accordance with His purpose. It is not a game to play or a gamble to risk. Yet, many people gamble with their lives by chasing after earthly riches, fleeting pleasures, or fame, while neglecting their relationship with God. Jesus warns us of the tragedy of such choices when He says, _What good will it be for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?_ (Matt. 16:26). Losing one's soul is a loss too great to bear, no matter the worldly gains.

To gamble with your life means to live in ways that displease God -- through lies, deceit, theft, or procrastination in seeking salvation. It is choosing temporary pleasures over eternal joy. Life is given to us only once, and there are no second chances. We must use this opportunity to secure our eternity by accepting Christ.

Jesus has already paid the full price for our salvation. When we receive Him as Saviour, we enjoy God's blessings in this life (Matt. 6:33) and gain the assurance of eternal life with Him (Jn. 14:2). There is no need to stake your soul -- salvation is a free gift. Choose Jesus today, follow Him faithfully, and let Him lead you to eternal life.

PRAYER POINTS

1. Lord, help me avoid the temptations that risk my eternal soul.

2. Teach me to live faithfully and focus on Your promises.

3. Pray for the CAC Christia Christian Education Department, the GCEC, the Director and other workers at the various units and levels, as led by the Holy Spirit.

SUGGESTED HYMN FOR TODAY:
CACGHB: 398

7 7 7 7 & Ref

1. Sinners Jesus will receive;
Sound this word of grace to all
Who the heavenly pathway leave,
All who linger, all who fall!

Chorus:
Sing it o'er and o'er again;
Christ receiveth sinful men;
Make the message clear and plain;
Christ receiveth sinful men.

2. Come and He will give you rest;
Trust him for His word is plain;
He will take the sinfulest:
Christ receiveth sinful men.

3. Now my heart condemns me not,
Pure before the law I stand;
He who cleansed me from all spot,
Satisfied its last demand.

4. Christ receiveth sinful men,
Even me with all my sin;
Purged from every spot and stain,
Heaven with Him I enter in.

Amen.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY:
Isaiah 34-36

AUTHOR
CAC, Christian Education Department.

Stay blessed and fruitful for the glory of God.

10/08/2026

CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH
[Nigeria and Overseas]

THE LIVING WATER [January-December, 2026]

DAILY DEVOTIONAL GUIDE

DATE:
Monday, 10th August, 2026

TOPIC:
TYPES OF BOOKS (II)

MEMORISE

That night the king could not sleep. So one was commanded to bring the book of the records of the chronicles, and they were read before the king (Esther 6:1).

READ:
Esther 2:21-23

[21]. In those days, while Mordecai sat within the king’s gate, two of the king’s eunuchs, Bigthan and Teresh, doorkeepers, became furious and sought to lay hands on King Ahasuerus.

[22]. So the matter became known to Mordecai, who told Queen Esther, and Esther informed the king in Mordecai’s name.

[23]. And when an inquiry was made into the matter, it was confirmed, and both were hanged on a gallows; and it was written in the book of the chronicles in the presence of the king.

EXPOSITION

Yesterday, we considered the Bible as one of the ancient books. Though it may appear old, it holds timeless answers to life's many situations. Another significant type of book is the _book of the records of chronicles,_ used for documenting daily events, history and as a reference for official matters.

In the story of Mordecai, he uncovered a plot to overthrow the king while stationed at the gate (v 21). Acting through Queen Esther, he reported the coup. Upon investigation, the traitors were found guilty and executed (v 23). This entire incident was recorded in the king's journals, with a note emphasising that Mordecai was the one who exposed the treason. However, his recognition and reward were delayed; instead, a book of remembrance was written for him. Later, during a sleepless night, the king ordered the chronicles of his kingdom to be read (6:1). Two important discoveries emerged: the names of the traitors and Mordecai's role in thwarting their plan.

This illustrates a powerful truth -- on the day of reckoning, when the book of life and other records are opened, judgement will be passed based on deeds inscribed in these books. Nothing escapes being documented, for every action has a place in the records! Beware!

PRAYER POINTS:

1. Lord Jesus, by the power of records, let men who have been forgotten be rewarded for their good deeds.

2. Pray for godly civil servants to be remembered and their efforts rewarded.

3. On the day of reckoning, let my name be found worthy in the Book of Life, O Lord Jesus.

SUGGESTED HYMN FOR TODAY:
CACGHB: 475

8 8 9 8 8

1. Open my eyes, that I may see
Glimpses of truth Thou hast for me;
Place in my hands the wonderful key
That shall unclasp and set me free.
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, Thy will to see;
Open my eyes, illumine me,
Spirit Divine!

2. Open my ears, that I may hear
Voices of truth Thou sendest clear;
And while the wave-notes fall on my ear
Everything false will disappear.
Silently now I wait for Thee
Ready, my God, Thy will to see
Open my ears, illumine me,
Spirit Divine!

3. Open my mouth, and let me hear
Gladly the warm truth everywhere,
Open my heart and let me prepare.
Love with Thy children thus to share
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, Thy will to see;
Open my heart, illumine me,
Spirit Divine!

4. Open my mind, that I may read
More of Thy love in word and deed;
What shall I fear while yet Thou dost lead?
Only for light from Thee I plead.
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, Thy will to see;
Open my mind, illumine me,
Spirit Divine!

5. Open my way, that I may bring
Trophies of grace to thee, my King:
Echoed in love Thy word shall out-ring
Sweet as the note that angels sing.
Silently now I wait for Thee,
Ready, my God, Thy will to see;
Open my way, illumine me.
Spirit Divine!

Amen.

EXTRA READING FOR TODAY
Isaiah 30-33

AUTHOR
CAC, Christian Education Department.

Stay blessed and fruitful for the glory of God.