ODM Daily Inspirational Devotional Messages Bible Verse and Prayers ODM
DCLM Daily Manna – It Is Their Time
Monday, July 27, 2026
KEY VERSE
“When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness” (Luke 22:53).
Bible Reading:
Luke 22:52-54 (KJV)
52 Then Jesus said unto the chief priests, and captains of the temple, and the elders, which were come to him, Be ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and staves?
53 When I was daily with you in the temple, ye stretched forth no hands against me: but this is your hour, and the power of darkness.
54 Then took they him, and led him, and brought him into the high priest’s house. And Peter followed afar off.
MESSAGE
The story was told of a university town, where a feared cult leader ran a gang. The gang terrorised students, extorting, bullying, and even injuring others. He was regarded as “untouchable,” and his group gained influence – notoriety. He lived large, dressed in designer clothes, and drove expensive cars. However, following a violent incident on campus that involved his group, a major investigation was launched by the authorities. The cult leader was arrested and expelled. His supporters disbanded and fled. Years later, while the students he terrorised built careers, he remained jobless, shunned, and miserable.
The cult leader had his time. So did the chief priests, captains of the temple, and elders who came to arrest and humiliate Jesus Christ. He told them, “…this is your hour, and the power of darkness.” As these malicious zealots exuded the euphoria of their “exploit” of capturing Jesus, as if He were a robber, He queried them, “Be ye come out, as against a thief, with swords and staves?” Their rude attitude was unnecessary and a mismatch with Christ’s peaceful disposition. They lacked the authority and courage to accost Christ all the time He ministered in the temple and everywhere; but why now? Christ could only rationalise their behaviour and reconcile Himself to it, considering it was their time. It was a time when the power of darkness was permitted to do its worst, which would eventually redound to God’s purpose – and to humanity’s redemption.
We often witness the “triumphing of the wicked,” where dubious individuals exploit the political space, misuse power, and afflict the righteous. We find people “prospering” in business by cutting corners and through corruption. People gain fame and fortune by adopting perverted lifestyles and performances. We live in a time when evil is called good, and good evil – all to the frustration of the righteous. There is even a rise in the active persecution of Christians around the world. But we should be comforted by the submission of our Lord: it is their time. Consider also that “the triumphing of the wicked is short…” (Job 20:5).
If you are a true follower of Christ, keep walking with Him. Do not be dismayed by the attitudes and actions of the worldly. The temporary humiliation of Christ resulted in eternal honour and our redemption. Our present frustrations will soon result in permanent favour.
THOUGHT FOR THE DAY
Believer, benchmark not with unbelievers – they’re in a different race
BIBLE IN ONE YEAR
Exodus 37-38
DCLM Daily Manna July 27th 2026
COMMENTARY
1. The Temporary Triumph of the Wicked – The devotional reminds us that the wicked have their “hour” when they appear to triumph. The religious leaders who arrested Jesus thought they had won, but their victory was temporary. Likewise, when we see evil prospering, we must remember that their time is limited. As Job said, “The triumphing of the wicked is short” (Job 20:5).
2. The Power of Darkness Is Permitted – Jesus acknowledged that this was “your hour, and the power of darkness.” God permits darkness to have its season, but it is always within His sovereign control. Even when evil seems to prevail, God is working out His greater purpose. The crucifixion was the ultimate act of evil, yet it became the means of our redemption.
3. Do Not Be Dismayed – The devotional encourages believers not to be discouraged by the success of the ungodly. We live in a time when evil is called good and good evil (Isaiah 5:20). Yet we are called to keep walking with Christ, trusting that our present frustrations will result in permanent favour.
4. Different Race, Different Destiny – The Thought for the Day declares: “Believer, benchmark not with unbelievers – they’re in a different race.” This is a powerful reminder. We are not competing with the world. Their rewards are temporary; ours are eternal. Measuring our lives by worldly standards leads to confusion and discouragement.
5. The DCLM Ministry’s Call to Perseverance – The Deeper Christian Life Ministry teaches that believers must endure trials and not lose heart. Pastor Kumuyi encourages the church to remain faithful even when the world seems to prosper in wickedness. The Daily Manna devotional calls readers to keep their eyes on Jesus and the eternal reward, not on the temporary successes of the ungodly. DCLM Daily Manna July 27th 2026
About DCLM and Daily Manna
The Deeper Christian Life Ministry (DCLM) was founded in 1973 by Pastor Dr. W.F. Kumuyi. From a small Bible study of 15 students in Lagos, it has grown into a global ministry with churches across Nigeria, Africa, and beyond. The ministry emphasizes holiness, prayer, Bible study, and steadfast faith in times of trial.
DCLM Daily Manna is a daily devotional written by Pastor Kumuyi. Each edition provides Scripture reading, exposition, and practical application to guide believers in their daily walk with God. The devotional consistently calls readers to remain faithful and not be discouraged by the temporary triumph of evil.
Prayer Reflection
Lord, help me not to be discouraged when I see the wicked prosper. Remind me that their triumph is temporary and that You are still in control. Keep my eyes fixed on Jesus and the eternal reward. Give me the strength to persevere and not be swayed by the world’s standards. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
