Good day Templar family
It is my pleasure to announce our newest member of the OMSDT Knights Templars, CAA Edward Pieterse from South Africa
I am so excited that CAA Edward will be a part of the OMSDT and Priory of St.Miltiades. We are growing one person at the time
Please help me in welcoming our newest Brother to the Order!
MC Louis Steyn
Priory of St.Miltiades
Freedom in Christ
Biography, PETER EDWARD PIETERSE, Born on the 2nd of May 1968 in Kimberly Northern Cape South Africa I am th... moreGood day Templar family
It is my pleasure to announce our newest member of the OMSDT Knights Templars, CAA Edward Pieterse from South Africa
I am so excited that CAA Edward will be a part of the OMSDT and Priory of St.Miltiades. We are growing one person at the time
Please help me in welcoming our newest Brother to the Order!
MC Louis Steyn
Priory of St.Miltiades
Freedom in Christ
Biography, PETER EDWARD PIETERSE, Born on the 2nd of May 1968 in Kimberly Northern Cape South Africa I am the second oldest in my family
I've got an older sister and younger brother i was born on my parents wedding anniversary and grew up on a farm in the Northern Cape it was my grandparents farm we later moved to Kroonstad in the freestate were i spend most of my life.
We moved to Gauteng in mid 80 ts were i finished my schooling and went to the SADF for 2years of military training then we moved back to Kroonstad after my parents got devorced i worked several jobs at that time in 1986 I started working for then SARS as a fireman on the steam engines and later Diesel electric and Electric locomotives.
I got married to my wife we are now married for 36 years with 2 boys now big men oldest is married with 2 daughters youngest is still a bachelor we've moved around quite a bit now i have settled in Bethal Mpumalnga were my intrest in the knights templer was triggered we are a Christian family
I studied as a local preacher at the Methodist church of South Africa but had to unfortunately give it up because of raisisom with in the church but that was that iam still a Christian and attend the local church VEK LIGHT HOUSE CHURCH in our small town
The templers has triggered my intrest from watching THE CURSE OF OAK ISLAND, so this is my life story my grandfather on my father's side was a GRAND MASTER IN THE FREEMASONS but i had no interest in joining them even when tried their very best to convince me to join
Good day Templar family
Be Still in the Silence: Humility Before God
Scripture — Lamentations 3:28–29 (KJV)
“He sitteth alone and keepeth silence, because he hath borne it upon him. He putteth his mouth in the dust; if so be there may be hope.”
Devotion
Sometimes God teaches us the deepest lessons in silence.
There are seasons in life when the weight of our circumstances becomes difficult to bear. We may experience disappointment, rejection, grief, uncertainty, or battles that nobody else... moreGood day Templar family
Be Still in the Silence: Humility Before God
Scripture — Lamentations 3:28–29 (KJV)
“He sitteth alone and keepeth silence, because he hath borne it upon him. He putteth his mouth in the dust; if so be there may be hope.”
Devotion
Sometimes God teaches us the deepest lessons in silence.
There are seasons in life when the weight of our circumstances becomes difficult to bear. We may experience disappointment, rejection, grief, uncertainty, or battles that nobody else understands. During these moments, our natural response is often to speak, defend ourselves, demand answers, or try to regain control.
Yet Lamentations 3:28–29 presents us with a different response: to sit quietly, humble ourselves before God, and wait with hope.
Sitting alone does not necessarily mean that we have been abandoned. Silence does not mean that God has forgotten us. Sometimes, stepping away from the noise allows us to examine our hearts and recognise how desperately we need His wisdom, strength, and direction.
The words “he putteth his mouth in the dust” describe a posture of deep humility. It is a picture of someone who has stopped relying on personal strength and surrendered before the sovereignty of God. This is not about believing that we have no value; it is about recognising that God is greater than our understanding and wiser than our plans.
As Christians, and especially as men who desire to stand firm in faith, we must learn that strength is not always demonstrated through speaking loudly or fighting every battle. Sometimes, true strength is demonstrated by remaining silent when anger demands a response, waiting when impatience demands action, and trusting God when circumstances offer no explanation.
Jeremiah wrote Lamentations in the context of deep suffering and Jerusalem's devastation. Yet, in the surrounding passage, he remembers the Lord's steadfast love and mercies (Lamentations 3:22–23). Even in sorrow, hope remains possible because God's character has not changed.
Do not mistake a quiet season for a hopeless season.
When life brings you to your knees, let that position become a place of prayer rather than despair. Be still long enough to listen. Be humble enough to learn. Be patient enough to wait.
God may not answer every question immediately, but you can still place your confidence in Him. Your circumstances may be painful, but they do not have the final word. The Lord remains faithful.
Reflection
Take a few moments today to ask yourself:
Am I allowing my emotions to control my words and actions?
Can I remain silent when speaking would only create more conflict?
Am I willing to humble myself before God, even when I do not understand His ways?
Can I continue to hope in the Lord while I wait for His direction?
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Teach me to be still in Your presence when life becomes overwhelming. Help me to guard my tongue, humble my heart, and surrender my need to understand everything.
When I am hurt, keep bitterness from taking root in me. When I am angry, give me self-control. When I feel forgotten, remind me of Your unfailing love. When I cannot see the way forward, give me the patience to wait upon You.
Lord, remove my pride and teach me to trust Your wisdom above my own. Let my silence be filled with prayer, my humility be rooted in faith, and my waiting be strengthened by hope.
May I never confuse a difficult season with Your absence. Help me to stand firm, even when I must stand quietly.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour.
Amen.
Quote of the Day
“A humble heart can find hope in the silence where human strength has reached its limit.”
Guard your mouth: Before responding to a difficult person or situation, pause and pray.
Humble your heart: Admit one area where you need God's guidance instead of insisting on your own way.
Hold on to hope: Write down Lamentations 3:22–23 and read it whenever discouragement begins to overwhelm you.
Further Reading
Psalm 46:10 — Be still and know that He is God.
Psalm 62:5–8 — Wait quietly for God, your hope and refuge.
Proverbs 17:27–28 — The wisdom of restraining one's words.
Isaiah 30:15 — Strength found in quietness and trust.
James 1:19–20 — Be quick to hear and slow to speak.
Lamentations 3:21–26 — Hope in the Lord's unfailing mercies.
Have a blessed day
MC Louis Steyn
OMSDT • Priory of St. Miltiades
Freedom in Christ
Serving Christ with humility, faith, and perseverance.
Good day Templar family
THE WATCHMAN MUST GUARD HIS MOUTH
A warrior must guard more than the gates of a city; he must guard the words that leave his lips.
Scripture
Psalm 141:3 (KJV)
“Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.”
Devotion
A watchman carries a serious responsibility. He stands alert, watches for danger, and warns others when a threat approaches. He cannot afford to sleep while danger is near, nor can he neglect the gates entrusted to his care.
But ther... moreGood day Templar family
THE WATCHMAN MUST GUARD HIS MOUTH
A warrior must guard more than the gates of a city; he must guard the words that leave his lips.
Scripture
Psalm 141:3 (KJV)
“Set a watch, O LORD, before my mouth; keep the door of my lips.”
Devotion
A watchman carries a serious responsibility. He stands alert, watches for danger, and warns others when a threat approaches. He cannot afford to sleep while danger is near, nor can he neglect the gates entrusted to his care.
But there is another gate that every Christian watchman must guard: the gate of his mouth.
It is possible to stand firm in faith, wear the armour of a warrior, speak boldly about righteousness, and yet cause harm through careless words. A sharp tongue can wound a brother, destroy trust, spread division, and turn a small disagreement into a great conflict.
The Bible reminds us that our words are not insignificant. Proverbs 18:21 teaches that death and life are in the power of the tongue. Our words can encourage the weary, strengthen the weak, defend the truth, and bring hope. They can also humiliate, discourage, accuse, and destroy.
A spiritual watchman must therefore learn when to speak and when to remain silent.
Not every thought deserves a voice. Not every accusation deserves a response. Not every provocation requires an answer. Sometimes, the greatest demonstration of strength is the ability to remain silent when pride demands that we speak.
Guarding your mouth does not mean hiding the truth or remaining silent in the face of injustice. It means speaking truth with wisdom, courage, love, and self-control. A watchman must warn when God calls him to warn, correct when correction is necessary, and encourage when others are losing heart.
Before speaking, ask yourself:
Is it true?
Is it necessary?
Is it loving?
Will it build up or tear down?
Am I speaking under the guidance of the Holy Spirit, or am I reacting out of anger, pride, or wounded feelings?
A watchman who cannot control his tongue may expose the very people he was called to protect.
James 1:19 calls believers to be quick to hear, slow to speak, and slow to anger. This is not weakness; it is spiritual discipline. It takes courage to speak the truth, but it also takes maturity to know how and when to speak it.
Remember, Christian warrior, your first battle is not always against the enemy outside the walls. Sometimes your greatest battle is within your own heart, where anger, pride, resentment, and impatience seek to command your tongue.
Before you guard the gates of others, allow God to guard the gate of your own mouth.
Reflection
Take a moment today to examine your words.
Have I spoken about someone when I should have prayed for them?
Have I allowed anger to speak through me?
Have my words brought peace or increased conflict?
Do I use my voice to defend the truth and strengthen my brethren?
Ask God to make your mouth an instrument of righteousness. Let your words be firm when truth demands firmness, gentle when a wounded heart needs healing, and silent when speaking would only feed conflict.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Set a watch before my mouth and keep the door of my lips. Teach me to control my tongue, discipline my thoughts, and examine my heart before I speak.
Deliver me from gossip, slander, pride, anger, and careless words. Give me the courage to speak the truth, the wisdom to speak with love, and the humility to remain silent when silence is the better choice.
Holy Spirit, guide my words so that they bring encouragement instead of discouragement, unity instead of division, and healing instead of hurt.
As a watchman called to stand alert, help me guard not only the gates around me but also the gate within me. May my speech honour Jesus Christ, my King, in every conversation.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, Amen.
Quote to Share
“A watchman who fails to guard his mouth may destroy with his tongue what he was called to protect with his prayers.”
Further Reading
Ephesians 4:29 — Speak words that build others up.
James 3:1–12 — Understand the power and danger of the tongue.
Colossians 4:6 — Let your conversation be gracious and wise.
Today's Action Step
Before your next difficult conversation, pause for ten seconds and pray Psalm 141:3. If you are angry, wait until you can speak with self-control. Speak no gossip, spread no unverified accusation, and deliberately use your words to encourage at least one person today.
Remember: The watchman must remain alert, the warrior must remain disciplined, and the Christian must keep his tongue under the authority of Christ.
May the Lord guard your heart, your lips, and your testimony.
Have a blessed day
MC Louis Steyn
OMSDT. Priory of St. Miltiades
Freedom in Christ
Good day Templar family
Build Up the Ancient Ruins and Repair the Ruined Cities
Isaiah 61:4 (KJV)
“And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall
repair the waste cities, the desolations of many generations.”
Devotion — God Is in the Business of Restoration
There are seasons in life when everything seems to lie in ruins. Dreams are shattered, relationships are
broken, faith grows weak, and the foundations upon which we once stood appear to... moreGood day Templar family
Build Up the Ancient Ruins and Repair the Ruined Cities
Isaiah 61:4 (KJV)
“And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations, and they shall
repair the waste cities, the desolations of many generations.”
Devotion — God Is in the Business of Restoration
There are seasons in life when everything seems to lie in ruins. Dreams are shattered, relationships are
broken, faith grows weak, and the foundations upon which we once stood appear to have crumbled.
Sometimes the ruins are visible to everyone; at other times, they are hidden deep within the heart.
Yet God is not intimidated by ruins.
In Isaiah 61:4, we find a powerful promise of restoration. The ancient ruins represent places devastated by
hardship, sin, disobedience, suffering, and the passing of generations. But God declares that these places
will be rebuilt and restored.
This is not merely a message about rebuilding physical cities. It reminds us that God can restore lives,
renew faith, heal broken relationships, and raise up people who once believed their usefulness had come to
an end.
As Christians, we are called to become builders in the hands of God. We must be willing to repair what has
been damaged, strengthen what has become weak, and encourage those who have lost hope. We cannot
rebuild everything through our own strength, but we can surrender our hands, hearts, and lives to the Master
Builder.
A Knight Templar understands the importance of standing firm when the battle is difficult. Likewise, a
servant of Christ must remain faithful when the work of restoration becomes exhausting.
Rebuilding takes
patience, sacrifice, humility, and perseverance.
Perhaps God is calling you today to rebuild the ruins in your own life. Perhaps He is calling you to help
restore someone else through prayer, forgiveness, encouragement, or the truth of His Word.
Do not despise the ruins. In the hands of God, they can become the foundations of a new beginning.
Where the world sees destruction, God can begin a work of restoration.
Reflection
• What ancient ruins in your life need God's restoration?
• Have you allowed past failures to convince you that rebuilding is impossible?
• Is God calling you to help repair a broken relationship or encourage someone who has lost hope?
• Are you willing to do the patient, faithful work required to rebuild what has fallen?
Remember, restoration often begins with one stone, one prayer, one act of obedience, and one decision to
trust God again.
Practical Action for Today
• Pray: Ask God to reveal what needs to be restored.
Daily Christian Devotion • MC Louis Steyn • Page 3
• Repair: Take one practical step toward healing, reconciliation, or spiritual growth.
• Rebuild: Spend time in God's Word and establish a daily habit of prayer.
• Restore others: Encourage someone who is struggling or help someone take a step toward a new
beginning.
Do not wait until you feel strong enough to rebuild. Begin with God, and allow Him to strengthen you along
the way.
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
I come before You acknowledging that there are ruins in my life that I cannot rebuild by my own strength.
There are broken places in my heart, lessons from my past, and areas where I need Your healing and
restoration.
Lord, become the Master Builder of my life. Restore what has been damaged, strengthen what has grown
weak, and remove everything that prevents me from walking faithfully in Your will.
Give me the courage to face the ruins without fear, the humility to acknowledge my failures, and the
perseverance to continue when the rebuilding becomes difficult.
Teach me also to become a builder in the lives of others. Let my words bring encouragement, my actions
demonstrate love, and my life point people towards Jesus Christ.
May the ruins of yesterday become a testimony of Your faithfulness tomorrow. Rebuild me according to
Your purpose, and use me for Your glory.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour.
Amen.
Quotes for Reflection
“God does not waste the ruins of your past; He can use them to build a testimony of His grace.”
“Restoration begins when we stop believing that what is broken must remain broken.”
“A faithful servant does not merely stand among the ruins; he places his hands in God's service
and begins to rebuild.”
Further Reading
• Nehemiah 2:17–18 — Rise up and rebuild.
• Isaiah 58:12 — Become a repairer of the breach.
• Jeremiah 30:17 — God promises healing and restoration.
• Joel 2:25–26 — God can restore what has been lost.
• Psalm 147:3 — He heals the brokenhearted.
• 2 Corinthians 5:17 — In Christ, we become a new creation.
Today's Declaration
I will not surrender to the ruins of my past. Through the grace of God, I will rebuild, restore,
and stand firm in Christ. I will become a faithful servant and a repairer of broken places,
trusting the Master Builder to complete His work in me.
Remember: The ruins do not have the final word. God does.
Have a blessed day
MC Louis Steyn
OMSDT — Priory of St. Miltiades
Freedom in Christ
Good day Templar family
CLEAN THE INSIDE FIRST
SCRIPTURE — MATTHEW 23:26 (KJV)
“Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them
may be clean also.”
DEVOTION
Jesus teaches us a powerful lesson about the difference between outward appearances and inward holiness.
We can look respectable before others, speak the right words, attend church, and perform acts of service,
yet still carry pride, bitterness, jealousy, dishonesty, or unforgiven... moreGood day Templar family
CLEAN THE INSIDE FIRST
SCRIPTURE — MATTHEW 23:26 (KJV)
“Thou blind Pharisee, cleanse first that which is within the cup and platter, that the outside of them
may be clean also.”
DEVOTION
Jesus teaches us a powerful lesson about the difference between outward appearances and inward holiness.
We can look respectable before others, speak the right words, attend church, and perform acts of service,
yet still carry pride, bitterness, jealousy, dishonesty, or unforgiveness within our hearts.
In Matthew 23:26, Jesus confronts the Pharisees because they were more concerned with appearing righteous than with allowing God to transform their hearts. Their outward conduct looked clean, but their
inner lives did not reflect the righteousness God desired.
God is not merely interested in what people see; He cares deeply about who we are when nobody is
watching
This message challenges every believer, including those who serve as leaders, soldiers of faith, and servants
of Christ. Before we try to correct others, we must allow God to examine us. Before we speak about
holiness, we must pursue holiness ourselves. Before we judge another person's failures, we must honestly
confront our own.
Cleansing the inside begins with repentance, humility, prayer, and obedience to God's Word. It means
surrendering our hidden sins to Christ and asking the Holy Spirit to renew our thoughts, motives, and
desires.
A Knight Templar may polish his armour for battle, but no amount of polishing can replace the need for a
clean heart before God. Likewise, our Christian character must be more than a uniform we wear before the
world. Our faith must be genuine, visible in our private choices as well as our public actions.
God does not call us to pretend to be perfect. He calls us to come to Him honestly, repent of our sins, and
allow Him to change us from within.
Today, do not ask only, “How do others see me?” Ask, “Lord, what do You see in my heart?”
REFLECTION
• Is my heart as clean as the image I present to others?
• Am I holding on to resentment, pride, envy, or unforgiveness?
• Do my private actions reflect the faith I profess publicly?
• Am I willing to let God correct me before I correct others?
Daily Christian Devotion • Matthew 23:26 • 2
Action for today: Spend ten minutes in prayerful self-examination. Identify one attitude or habit that needs
to change. Confess it to God, ask for His help, and take one practical step towards change.
QUOTES FOR MEDITATION
“Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.” — Psalm 51:10 (KJV)
“True holiness begins in the heart and becomes visible through our actions.”
“Do not polish the armour while neglecting the soul. Let Christ prepare your heart before you enter
the battle of the day.”
PRAYER
Heavenly Father,
I come before You today asking You to search my heart and reveal anything within me that does not honour
You. Forgive me for the times I have cared more about appearances than about genuine obedience.
Cleanse me from pride, bitterness, jealousy, dishonesty, and every hidden sin. Give me the courage to
acknowledge my weaknesses and the humility to receive Your correction.
Lord Jesus, transform me from the inside out. Let my words, thoughts, decisions, and actions reflect Your
character. Help me to lead with integrity, serve with humility, forgive freely, and walk in truth even when
nobody is watching.
May my life be pleasing to You, not merely impressive to people. Make my heart a place where Your Spirit
is welcome.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ,
Amen.
FURTHER READING
Psalm 51:10–12 — Ask God for a clean heart and a renewed spirit.
Proverbs 4:23 — Guard your heart, because your life flows from it.
James 4:8–10 — Draw near to God with a humble and sincere heart.
Ezekiel 36:25–27 — God's promise to cleanse and renew His people.
Luke 6:43–45 — The heart reveals itself through words and actions.
2 Corinthians 7:1 — Pursue holiness in reverence for God.
1 Samuel 16:7 — God looks beyond outward appearance and sees the heart.
A FINAL THOUGHT
“Lord, cleanse my heart before I seek to change the world around me. Let my life reflect the truth I
profess and the Saviour I serve.”
Have a blessed day
MC Louis Steyn
OMSDT · Priory of St. Miltiades
Good day Templar family
Do Not Judge
Scripture: “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned.” — Luke 6:37
It is easy to look at another person’s life and quickly form an opinion. We see their mistakes, their failures, their words, or their actions, and we may think we know the whole story. But God sees what we cannot see—the heart, the struggles, the wounds, and the circumstances behind the person.
Jesus calls us to be careful when we judge other... moreGood day Templar family
Do Not Judge
Scripture: “Do not judge, and you will not be judged. Do not condemn, and you will not be condemned.” — Luke 6:37
It is easy to look at another person’s life and quickly form an opinion. We see their mistakes, their failures, their words, or their actions, and we may think we know the whole story. But God sees what we cannot see—the heart, the struggles, the wounds, and the circumstances behind the person.
Jesus calls us to be careful when we judge others. This does not mean that we should ignore sin or abandon biblical discernment. It means we should examine our own hearts before pointing fingers at someone else.
Jesus said in Matthew 7:3, “Why do you see the speck that is in your brother’s eye, but do not notice the log that is in your own eye?”
Before correcting someone else, let God correct you. Before condemning someone, remember the mercy God has shown you. We are all dependent upon His grace.
When we choose compassion instead of condemnation, we become instruments of God's love. We can speak truth without hatred, correct without pride, and encourage without making ourselves superior.
Today, ask God to give you a heart that sees people through His eyes. Instead of asking, “What is wrong with this person?”, ask, “How can I show this person the love and truth of Christ?”
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Help me not to judge others according to appearances or my own understanding. Search my heart and reveal the areas where I need to change. Give me wisdom to recognize sin without becoming proud or condemning.
Teach me to extend the same mercy, patience, and grace that You have shown me. Let my words build people up rather than tear them down. Help me to be a light for Christ and to lead others toward You through love and truth.
In Jesus' name, Amen.
Reflection:
Am I looking at others through the eyes of judgment, or through the eyes of Christ?
Have a blessed day
MC Louis Steyn
OMSDT. Priory of St.Miltiades
Freedom in Christ
Good day Templar family
Held Secure in the Hands of Christ
1. Scripture — John 10:28 (KJV)
“And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any
man pluck them out of my hand.”
2. Devotion
No power is greater than the hand that holds you.
Jesus gives us a powerful promise in John 10:28. He declares that those who belong to Him receive
eternal life and that no one can snatch them out of His hand. These words are a source of comfort,
courage, and assurance fo... moreGood day Templar family
Held Secure in the Hands of Christ
1. Scripture — John 10:28 (KJV)
“And I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, neither shall any
man pluck them out of my hand.”
2. Devotion
No power is greater than the hand that holds you.
Jesus gives us a powerful promise in John 10:28. He declares that those who belong to Him receive
eternal life and that no one can snatch them out of His hand. These words are a source of comfort,
courage, and assurance for every believer who has placed their faith in Him.
Life is filled with uncertainty. We face trials, disappointments, loss, temptation, and moments when
our faith feels weak. Sometimes we may even wonder whether we are strong enough to continue
walking with the Lord. But our salvation does not rest upon our own strength. Our confidence rests in
the faithfulness and power of Jesus Christ.
A soldier understands the importance of standing firm when the battle becomes difficult. In the same
way, a Christian must learn to stand firm in faith, not because the battlefield is easy, but because the
Lord is faithful. We may stumble, we may grow weary, and we may face seasons of doubt, but Christ
remains our Shepherd.
Notice that Jesus does not promise a life without hardship. He promises something greater: eternal
life and the security of belonging to Him.
The hands that hold us are the hands of our Saviour—the One who laid down His life for His sheep
and rose victorious over death. The world may threaten us, circumstances may shake us, and people
may disappoint us, but no created power is greater than our Lord.
This promise is not an invitation to live carelessly. It is a call to live faithfully. Because we belong to
Christ, we should follow His voice, obey His Word, resist sin, and serve Him with humility and
courage.
Templar or soldier, servant or leader, every Christian must remember this truth: our greatest security
is not found in rank, reputation, possessions, or human approval. It is found in Jesus Christ.
You do not have to fight every battle in your own strength. Walk faithfully with the Shepherd
who holds you securely in His hands.
3. Reflection
Take a quiet moment today and consider these questions:
• Do I trust Jesus when my circumstances are uncertain?
• Am I relying on my own strength, or am I resting in His promises?
• Does the assurance of belonging to Christ influence the way I live and serve others?
• What fear do I need to surrender to the Lord today?
Remember: your feelings may change, your circumstances may change, and people may change, but
Christ remains faithful.
Practical action for today: When fear or uncertainty arises, read John 10:28 aloud. Pray over the
situation troubling you, then take one faithful step in obedience to Christ instead of allowing fear to
direct your decisions.
4. Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for the precious promise of eternal life through Your Son, Jesus Christ. Thank You that I
am not required to face every battle in my own strength, but can trust in the power, love, and
faithfulness of my Shepherd.
Lord Jesus, help me to hear Your voice and follow You faithfully. When fear rises within me, remind
me of Your promises. When I grow weary, renew my strength. When I face opposition, give me
courage to stand for the truth without pride, hatred, or bitterness.
Guard my heart against temptation and keep me steadfast in Your Word. Teach me to serve You with
humility, discipline, and unwavering faith. May my life reflect the character of Christ, even when the
road is difficult.
Thank You that my hope is in You, the One who conquered death and gives eternal life. Help me to
walk each day with confidence in Your grace and to remain faithful until the end.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour.
Amen.
5. Quote of the Day
“The world may shake beneath your feet, but the soul that trusts in Christ
rests in the hands of the eternal King.”
6. Further Reading
• John 10:27–30 — The Good Shepherd and His sheep.
• Romans 8:38–39 — Nothing can separate us from the love of God in Christ.
• 1 Peter 1:3–5 — An inheritance kept in heaven.
• Psalm 23:1–6 — The Lord is our Shepherd.
• Jude 1:24–25 — God is able to keep us from falling.
• 2 Timothy 1:12 — Confidence in the One to whom we have entrusted ourselves.
STAND FIRM IN FAITH
Faithful to Christ. Steadfast in His Word. Secure in His hands.
Have a blessed day
MC Louis Steyn
OMSDT Priory of St.Miltiades
Freedom in Christ
Good day Templar family
1. Scripture
“They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.” — Psalm 126:5 (KJV)
2. Devotion
God Can Turn Your Tears Into a Harvest of Joy
There are seasons in life when we sow with tears in our eyes. We pray, but the answers seem delayed. We remain faithful, yet our circumstances do not change. We encourage others while quietly carrying burdens of our own. Sometimes, the hardest battles are the ones nobody else can see.
Psalm 126:5 reminds us that tears do not mean ou... moreGood day Templar family
1. Scripture
“They that sow in tears shall reap in joy.” — Psalm 126:5 (KJV)
2. Devotion
God Can Turn Your Tears Into a Harvest of Joy
There are seasons in life when we sow with tears in our eyes. We pray, but the answers seem delayed. We remain faithful, yet our circumstances do not change. We encourage others while quietly carrying burdens of our own. Sometimes, the hardest battles are the ones nobody else can see.
Psalm 126:5 reminds us that tears do not mean our faith has failed. Sometimes, tears are part of the journey of faith. The farmer plants seeds without immediately seeing the harvest. He works the soil, trusts the process, and waits for the right season. In the same way, we are called to keep trusting God even when we cannot yet see what He is doing.
Your prayers are not wasted. Your obedience is not meaningless. Your acts of kindness, your sacrifices, your perseverance, and your commitment to God's Word are seeds sown in faith.
As a Christian, and as a servant of the King of Kings, you must learn to remain faithful in both the valley and on the mountain. A Knight Templar's outward strength may be seen in discipline and courage, but true spiritual strength is also revealed in humility, patience, prayer, and unwavering trust in Christ.
3. Reflection
Take a moment to examine your heart before God.
What situation in your life is causing you to sow in tears?
Have you become discouraged because you cannot yet see the results of your faithfulness?
Are you continuing to serve God even when nobody notices your sacrifices?
What seed of faith, kindness, forgiveness, or obedience can you sow today?
Practical action for today: Identify one area where you have become discouraged. Pray specifically about it, read God's Word, and take one faithful step forward. Encourage someone who is suffering, offer forgiveness where needed, or continue a good work you were tempted to abandon.
Do not measure God's faithfulness only by what you see today. Walk by faith, trusting Him through every season.
4. Prayer
Heavenly Father,
I come before You today with an open heart. You know every tear I have shed, every burden I carry, and every silent prayer I have whispered when words were difficult to find.
Lord Jesus, strengthen my faith when the road becomes difficult. Teach me not to give up when I cannot see the harvest. Help me to sow seeds of righteousness, love, patience, forgiveness, and truth, even when my circumstances bring sorrow.
Give me the courage to stand firm in Your Word, the humility to trust Your timing, and the wisdom to recognise the work You are doing within me. When I feel weak, remind me that my hope is not in my own strength but in You.
Father, turn my sorrow into an opportunity to grow closer to You. Let my trials produce perseverance, my struggles deepen my faith, and my life become a testimony of Your grace.
May I remain faithful to You in every season, serving the King of Kings with a steadfast heart.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour.
Amen.
5. Quote of the Day
“Do not abandon the seeds of faith because your eyes are filled with tears. Remain faithful in the planting, trust God through the waiting, and leave the harvest in His hands.”
6. Further Reading
Read and meditate on these passages to strengthen your faith during difficult seasons:
Galatians 6:9 — Do not grow weary in doing good.
Romans 8:28 — God works in all things for the good of those who love Him and are called according to His purpose.
James 1:2–4 — Trials develop perseverance and maturity.
Psalm 30:5 — Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning.
Isaiah 40:31 — Those who hope in the Lord renew their strength.
2 Corinthians 4:17–18 — Fix your eyes on what is eternal rather than what is temporary.
A Final Word of Encouragement
Stand firm in Christ. Let your tears become prayers, your trials become lessons, and your faith remain rooted in God's promises.
Today's reminder: Keep sowing in faith, even through tears. God sees your perseverance, and your sorrow does not have the final word.
Have a blessed day
MC Louis Steyn
OMSDT Priory of St.Miltiades
Freedom in Christ
Good day Templar family
It is my pleasure to announce our newest member of the OMSDT Knights Templars, CAA Patrick Joseph Sundufu
I am so excited that CAA Patrick will be a part of the OMSDT and Priory of St.Miltiades. We are growing one person at the time
Please help me in welcoming our newest Brother to the Order!
MC Louis Steyn
Priory of St.Miltiades
Freedom in Christ
Here below is the biography of CCA Patrick
BIOGRAPHY OF PATRICK JOSEPH SUNDUFU
Personal Information:
FullNameatr... moreGood day Templar family
It is my pleasure to announce our newest member of the OMSDT Knights Templars, CAA Patrick Joseph Sundufu
I am so excited that CAA Patrick will be a part of the OMSDT and Priory of St.Miltiades. We are growing one person at the time
Please help me in welcoming our newest Brother to the Order!
MC Louis Steyn
Priory of St.Miltiades
Freedom in Christ
Here below is the biography of CCA Patrick
BIOGRAPHY OF PATRICK JOSEPH SUNDUFU
Personal Information:
FullNameatrick Joseph Sundufu
Nationality:Sierra Leonean
KnownAs:Founder of the Freetown Lakers Basketball Academy
Early Life and Background
Patrick Joseph Sundufu was born in Freetown, Sierra Leone.
His father's name is Joseph Brima Sundufu and his mother's name is Josephine Musu Sundufu.
He belongs to the Mende tribe and is a practicing Catholic, having been baptized and confirmed at St.Martin's Pore Parishand Holy Cross Parish.
He served as a mission boy for ten (10) years, joined the Catholic Youth Organization for fifteen (15) years, and served as Youth Chairperson for ten (10) years.
EducationalBackground
He attended the Wesleyan Primary School and Methodist Boys' High School (Junior and Senior School)between the academic years1999 to 2003.Helater pursued higher education at IAMTECH University and other institutions:
Period
Qualification/Institution
2009–2010
Business and Finance(IAMTECH
University)
2010–2013
Accounting and Finance(IAMTECH University)
2019–2020
Atlantic University,U.S.A.
2026–Present
Freetown Polytechnic Education
Good day Templar family
When Sin Becomes a Byword: The Danger of Dishonouring God
1. Scripture
Jeremiah 29:22 (KJV)
“And of them shall be taken up a curse by all the captivity of Judah which are in Babylon, saying, The LORD make thee like Zedekiah and like Ahab, whom the king of Babylon roasted in the fire.”
2. Devotion — The Consequences of a Life Without Godly Fear
Jeremiah 29:22 speaks of a sobering moment in Israel's history. Zedekiah and Ahab were false prophets who spoke lies in God... moreGood day Templar family
When Sin Becomes a Byword: The Danger of Dishonouring God
1. Scripture
Jeremiah 29:22 (KJV)
“And of them shall be taken up a curse by all the captivity of Judah which are in Babylon, saying, The LORD make thee like Zedekiah and like Ahab, whom the king of Babylon roasted in the fire.”
2. Devotion — The Consequences of a Life Without Godly Fear
Jeremiah 29:22 speaks of a sobering moment in Israel's history. Zedekiah and Ahab were false prophets who spoke lies in God's name and led people away from His truth. Their wickedness was exposed, and their judgment became a warning to others.
Their names became associated with disgrace rather than honour. What they did was remembered, not as an example to follow, but as a warning of what happens when people reject God's truth and misuse His name.
This passage reminds us that our actions carry consequences, and our lives leave a testimony behind.
As Christians, and especially as men who desire to serve the Lord faithfully, we must remember that wearing the name of Christ is not enough. We are called to live according to His Word. We cannot speak of holiness while practising deception, claim to represent truth while spreading lies, or profess loyalty to God while deliberately walking in disobedience.
God sees beyond the image we present to the world. He knows our motives, our private decisions, and the condition of our hearts.
The lesson of Jeremiah 29:22 is not that we should rejoice when others face judgment. Rather, it should awaken a holy fear within us—a desire to examine our own lives before we point fingers at anyone else.
Are our words trustworthy? Do our actions honour Christ? Are we leading others closer to God or becoming a stumbling block in their walk of faith?
A Christian's legacy is built one decision at a time. We may not control what others say about us, but we can choose to live with integrity, humility, repentance, and obedience.
As servants of the King of Kings, let us never use our position, our titles, or our knowledge of Scripture to elevate ourselves. Let us use them to serve others and glorify God.
Do not allow your name to become a warning of hypocrisy. Let your life become a testimony of God's transforming grace.
3. Reflection — Examine Your Walk
Take a quiet moment before the Lord and consider these questions:
Integrity: Do my private actions agree with the faith I profess publicly?
Truth: Do I speak God's truth faithfully, or do I sometimes twist it to suit my own desires?
Influence: Does my conduct encourage others to follow Christ, or could it cause them to stumble?
Repentance: When God reveals sin in my life, do I humble myself and change, or do I defend my wrongdoing?
Remember, the purpose of self-examination is not to drive us into hopeless condemnation. It is to lead us back to God with a repentant heart.
When we recognise our failures, we must not hide from Him. We must confess our sins, seek His mercy, and allow His Word to correct our path.
Personal challenge for today: Identify one area in which your conduct needs to become more consistent with your Christian faith. Take one practical step to correct it, whether that means apologising, speaking the truth, making restitution, or turning away from a sinful habit.
4. Prayer
Heavenly Father,
I come before You in humility, acknowledging that You are holy, righteous, and true. Search my heart and reveal anything within me that dishonours Your name.
Forgive me for every occasion when my words have failed to reflect Your truth, when pride has influenced my decisions, or when my actions have contradicted the faith I profess.
Lord, teach me to walk in godly fear—not a fear that drives me away from You, but a reverence that draws me closer to Your presence. Give me the courage to accept correction, the humility to repent, and the strength to turn away from sin.
Help me to remember that my life is a testimony. May I never use Your name for personal glory, nor lead others astray through hypocrisy or deception.
Make me a man of integrity, faithful in private and public, steadfast in truth, and willing to serve without seeking recognition. Let my conduct reflect the character of Jesus Christ.
May my legacy be one of faithfulness, mercy, courage, and obedience to Your Word. Where I have fallen short, restore me. Where I have become proud, humble me. Where I have wandered, guide me back to Your ways.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour.
Amen.
5. Quote of the Day
“Let your life be remembered not for the disgrace of your failures, but for the sincerity of your repentance and the faithfulness of your walk with God.”
6. Further Reading
Study these passages alongside Jeremiah 29:22 to deepen your understanding:
Proverbs 10:9 — The blessing of walking in integrity.
Galatians 6:7–8 — The principle of sowing and reaping.
Romans 2:6–8 — God's righteous judgment according to deeds.
Psalm 139:23–24 — Asking God to search the heart and lead us in His way.
1 John 1:9 — God's faithfulness to forgive and cleanse those who confess their sins.
James 3:1 — The serious responsibility of those who teach others.
Micah 6:8 — Walking humbly with God, practising justice, and loving mercy.
Final Thought
A title may earn recognition, and words may earn applause, but only a life surrendered to God can consistently bear witness to His truth.
Let us live so that our conduct honours the name of Christ, our repentance demonstrates humility, and our service reflects the heart of our King.
Have a blessed day
MC Louis Steyn
OMSDT Priory of St.Miltiades
Freedom in Christ
Good day Templar family
Chastise Yourself: Correct Your Heart Before God Corrects Your Steps
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:31 (KJV)
“For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.”
The Devotion
A true servant of God must learn to examine himself honestly. It is easy to recognise the faults of others, to criticise their actions, and to point out where they have gone wrong. Yet the harder task is to stand before God, look into our own hearts, and acknowledge where we have fa... moreGood day Templar family
Chastise Yourself: Correct Your Heart Before God Corrects Your Steps
Scripture Reading: 1 Corinthians 11:31 (KJV)
“For if we would judge ourselves, we should not be judged.”
The Devotion
A true servant of God must learn to examine himself honestly. It is easy to recognise the faults of others, to criticise their actions, and to point out where they have gone wrong. Yet the harder task is to stand before God, look into our own hearts, and acknowledge where we have failed Him.
To chastise yourself in a spiritual sense is to practise honest self-examination, discipline your conduct, and correct your ways when they do not reflect the character of Christ. It is not about hating yourself, condemning yourself, or punishing yourself physically. It is about having the humility to admit when you are wrong and the courage to change.
A Knight who neglects his training becomes unprepared for battle. In the same way, a Christian who neglects spiritual discipline can become careless in speech, weak in character, and vulnerable to temptation. We must continually examine our thoughts, our words, our actions, and our motives.
Ask yourself difficult questions:
Have I spoken words that wounded another person?
Have pride and stubbornness prevented me from admitting my mistakes?
Have I allowed anger, bitterness, or jealousy to rule my heart?
Have I obeyed God's Word only when it suited me?
Have I corrected others for the very things I tolerate in myself?
These questions are not intended to destroy you with guilt. They are meant to lead you towards repentance and restoration.
Godly correction begins when we stop making excuses.
King David demonstrated this when confronted with his sin. Rather than remain in denial, he cried out to God for a clean heart. In Psalm 51:10, he prayed, “Create in me a clean heart, O God; and renew a right spirit within me.”
That must become our prayer too.
Do not wait for a painful consequence before you correct a destructive habit. Do not wait for a broken relationship before you humble yourself. Do not wait until your spiritual life grows cold before you return to prayer and the Word of God
Examine yourself daily. Where you have sinned, repent. Where you have hurt someone, seek forgiveness and make things right where possible. Where you have become undisciplined, return to obedience. Where pride has taken hold, humble yourself before the Lord.
Remember, God's conviction calls you to change, but condemnation tells you that you are beyond hope. Through Jesus Christ, repentance opens the way to forgiveness, renewal, and a transformed life.
A faithful Christian is not someone who never makes a mistake. A faithful Christian is someone who refuses to make peace with sin and continually allows God to shape his character.
Before you judge another person's conduct, examine your own. Before you demand discipline from others, practise it yourself. Before you speak of righteousness, make certain that you are willing to be corrected by the Word of God.
The strongest warrior is not the one who refuses correction. It is the one who has the humility to learn, the courage to repent, and the discipline to change.
Reflection
Today, stand before God without excuses or pretence. Ask Him to reveal the areas of your life that need correction. Do not hide from the truth, but do not lose hope when the truth exposes your weaknesses.
God does not call you to remain imprisoned by your failures. He calls you to repent, receive His grace, and walk in obedience.
Correct your ways. Discipline your heart. Humble your spirit. Let God make you into the person He has called you to be.
Practical Action for Today
Set aside ten quiet minutes with God.
Examine your words, actions, and attitudes from the past twenty-four hours.
Identify one specific area where you have fallen short of God's Word.
Confess it honestly to God and ask for His help to change.
If you have wronged someone, take a practical step towards making things right.
Choose one Scripture to guide your conduct tomorrow, and put it into practice.
Do not merely feel sorry for your mistakes. Take the next faithful step towards correcting them.
Closing prayer
Heavenly Father
Give me the humility to examine my own heart before I judge the hearts of others. Expose my pride, my hidden sins, my careless words, and every attitude that does not honour You.
Lord, teach me to accept correction without becoming defensive. Give me the courage to confess my failures, the wisdom to learn from them, and the discipline to turn away from sin.
Create in me a clean heart and renew a right spirit within me. Help me never to confuse Your correction with rejection, but to receive Your instruction with humility and faith.
May my conduct reflect the character of Jesus Christ. Let my words be truthful, my actions righteous, my heart humble, and my service faithful.
I surrender my weaknesses to You. Correct my path, strengthen my character, and teach me to walk in obedience to Your Word.
In the mighty name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and Saviour.
Amen.
Today's Declaration
“I will examine my own heart before judging others. I will accept correction, repent where I have sinned, and discipline my life according to God's Word. I will not be ruled by pride or excuses, but will walk in humility, repentance, and the grace of Jesus Christ.”
Memory Verse: Psalm 139:23–24 (KJV)
“Search me, O God, and know my heart: try me, and know my thoughts: And see if there be any wicked way in me, and lead me in the way everlasting.”
Have a blessed day
MC Louis Steyn
OMSDT — Priory of St. Miltiades
Freedom in Christ
