Wednesday, March 27, 2024

GOD HAS GIVEN JESUS CHRIST ALL AUTHORITY

 GOD HAS GIVEN JESUS CHRIST ALL AUTHORITY

March 28 , 2024

"Those who are victorious will sit with me on my throne, just as I was victorious and sat with my Father on his throne." Rev 3:21 NLT


   "After that the end will come, when he will turn the Kingdom over to God the Father, having destroyed every ruler and authority and power. For Christ must reign until he humbles all his enemies beneath his feet. And the last enemy to be destroyed is death. For the Scriptures say, “God has put all things under his authority.” (Of course, when it says “all things are under his authority,” that does not include God himself, who gave Christ his authority.) Then, when all things are under his authority, the Son will put himself under God’s authority, so that God, who gave his Son authority over all things, will be utterly supreme over everything everywhere." 1 Corinthians 15:24‭-‬28 NLT


    One of the challenges Christians face is having to explain the relationship between Jesus Christ and God the father and the Holy Spirit. The question has been that of how three distinct personality acting as one person (1John5:7-8)  But when observed from the perspective of functionality it is easy to understand how a thing can have three distinct  characteristics and yet be one . An example is the hydrological cycle where water turns into vapour and then attains a saturated vapour pressure and then condenses into rain drops then water again , here we see water ,vapour , rain with different characteristics but the same  chemical formula ( two molecules of hydrogen  bonding with one molecule of oxygen) The same can be said about water existing as snow ,steam ,ice . We could say water the ice, water the steam and water the snow , the same way we have God the Father , the son and the Holy Ghost. God is this way because he is interactive . He interacts with his creation and himself like we do . Have you had a discussion with yourself lately? God works by faith and faith comes by you hearing yourself . In Genesis chapters 1 and 2 we see God interacting with himself during the creation process .


   Just as water has preeminence over steam , (meaning steam is  derived from water) God the Father has preeminence in the universe ,the scripture says " Remember what I told you: I am going away, but I will come back to you again. If you really loved me, you would be happy that I am going to the Father, who is greater than I am." John 14:28 NLT and “Don’t cling to me,” Jesus said, “for I haven’t yet ascended to the Father. But go find my brothers and tell them, ‘I am ascending to my Father and your Father, to my God and your God.’”John 20:17 NLT. God is the source of life and Jesus Christ is the Word of God by which the universe was created ( John 1:1-3) 

  Jesus Christ :the Word and Son is in total obedience of the Father , the bible says " I can do nothing on my own. I judge as God tells me. Therefore, my judgment is just, because I carry out the will of the one who sent me, not my own will."John 5:30 NLT Jesus Christ demonstrated total obedience and submission to the Father  (Matt 26:39,42,44) 

God has given all authority to Jesus Christ . "Jesus came and told his disciples, “I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth." Matthew 28:18 NLT

   " Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor and gave him the name above all other names, that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow, in heaven and on earth and under the earth, and every tongue

declare that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

" Philippians 2:9‭-‬11 NLT

 The believer in Jesus Christ shares in this influence that's why demons are afraid of those full of God's Word.

Prayer : Heavenly father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and  receive the Holy Ghost and power to destroy the works of Satan in Jesus name. 

+2348035536911 +2348098536911 email Michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Sunday, March 24, 2024

YOU SHALL NOT BE CONQUERED

 The more the opposition against you, the more shall be your lifting because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good-Life Devotional : 

YOU SHALL NOT BE CONQUERED

March 25 , 2024

 By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi

  "I sat not in the  assembly of the  mockers, nor rejoiced; I  sat alone because of thy  hand: for thou hast filled  me with indignation.  Why is my pain  perpetual, and my  wound incurable, which  refuseth to be healed?  wilt thou be altogether  unto me as a liar, and  as waters  that fail? Therefore thus saith the  Lord, If thou return, then  will I bring thee again,  and thou shalt stand  before me: and if thou  take forth the precious  from the vile, thou shalt  be as my mouth: let  them return unto thee;  but return not thou unto  them.  And I will make  thee unto this people a  fenced brasen wall: and  they shall fight against  thee, but they shall not  prevail against thee: for  I am with thee to save  thee and to deliver thee,  saith the Lord. And I  will deliver thee out of  the hand of the wicked,  and I will redeem thee  out of the hand of the  terrible."


    Jeremiah was a  lone prophetic voice that was bold enough to speak against the corrupt culture that was being practiced by Jews of his time , Jeremiah 1 : 16 says they forsook God and embraced idol worship . The people became very confrontational against Jeremiah for his righteous disposition. 


   The world will fight against you if you promote righteousness , God  wants you to know that being his servant will attract  attacks , However , He promises that the enemy shall not prevail  . 


 God's word is sweet to the soul, it is food to the human spirit. Meditate on God's word daily for strength  . Jeremiah's was able to find strength in depressing times by feeding on God's word " Thy  words were found, and I  did eat them; and thy  word was unto me the  joy and rejoicing of mine  heart: for I am called by  thy name, O Lord God of  hosts." Jeremiah 15:16 Feeding on God's protects and heals the mind from mental illnesses associated with depression in times of oppression. .


    Your situation is not hopeless as it seems, extraordinary help will locate you . God says  " Don’t be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be discouraged, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you, I will hold you up with my victorious right hand. " Isaiah 41:10


   When Moses led the Jews out of Egypt and they found themselves before the sea while being chased by Pharaoh it looked like the Jews were losing the battle but God. instructed that they keep moving forward and he made a way through the sea,. Keep moving forward. Victory is assured in Jesus name.


Prayer: Heavenly  Father forgive me of my sins against you I believe that Jesus Christ died and was raised again for salvation I receive him as lord and saviour land receive the holy Ghost and power for stability in crisis..


+2348035536911, +2348099536911 e-mail michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Saturday, March 23, 2024

JESUS DID WHAT RELIGION COULD. NOT DO

 JESUS DID WHAT RELIGION COULD. NOT DO

March  25, 2024

   




By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

 "But when people keep on sinning, it shows that they belong to the devil, who has been sinning since the beginning. But the Son of God came to destroy the works of the devil."


1 John 3:8 NLT


  "  Because God’s children are human beings—made of flesh and blood—the Son also became flesh and blood. For only as a human being could he die, and only by dying could he break the power of the devil, who had the power of death. Only in this way could he set free all who have lived their lives as slaves to the fear of dying.


" Hebrews 2:14‭-‬15 NLT


   The aforementioned scriptures says Jesus came to destroy the works  of Satan . Sin gives Satan the advantage to oppress humanity . Sin derives its strength from the laws of Moses. For were there is no law , there is no sin. 


   Before Jesus came humanity was under the curse of the law and there was nobody qualified to intercede on our behalf  : after Adam sinned ,humans came into the world with a polluted sinful soul. We do not learn to exaggerate , we are born liars (Romans3:4) and the scriptures says " For I was born a sinner— yes, from the moment my mother conceived me." Psalms 51:5 NLT


   We are born sinners therefore, no priest was qualified to make ablution and atonement for sins. God had to create a priest that was without sin hence the virgin birth of Jesus Christ devoid of the corrupted male sperm. This was in fulfillment of scriptures in   "And I will cause hostility between you and the woman, and between your offspring and her offspring. He will strike your head, and you will strike his heel.” Genesis 3:15 NLT


 Jesus' death paid the price for our sins and gave us the gift of salvation (Rom5:6-11, 1Tim1;15) 


  Jesus showed us the love of God by dying for us ( John15:13; John10:11) God is love and Jesus came to show  us a picture of how God looks like (Col1:13,15; Heb 1:3, 2 Cor. 4:4b) Therefore, with Jesus we can understand God , the scriptures says " If you had really known me, you would know who my Father is. From now on, you do know him and have seen him!” Philip said, “Lord, show us the Father, and we will be satisfied.” Jesus replied, “Have I been with you all this time, Philip, and yet you still don’t know who I am? Anyone who has seen me has seen the Father! So why are you asking me to show him to you?"John 14:7‭-‬9 NLT


 God demonstrated his love to us by  sending Jesus Christ to humanity . "But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners." Romans 5:8 NLT


  Prayer : Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and received the Holy Ghost and power to preach the gospel with signs and wonders following in Jesus name.


+2348035536911  +2348098536911/email michaelbensonajayi @gmail.com

Friday, March 22, 2024

ADVANTAGE OF RAISING GODLY CHILDREN

 The plan of the enemy against your family shall fail because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good-Life Devotional: 

ADVANTAGE OF RAISING GODLY CHILDREN

March 23, 2024

By Rev. Michael Benson Ajayi 


" I remember your genuine faith, for you share the faith that first filled your grandmother Lois and your mother, Eunice. And I know that same faith continues strong in you." 2 Timothy 1:5 NLT


   Your parent's spiritual foundation can influence your worship . Children raised in homes where it is believed that demons , witches and wizards can control a believer in Jesus Christ therefore requiring powerful preachers to be protected from such  ; that child will grow to have a distorted picture of who a believer in Jesus Christ with the notion that believers are at the mercy of Satan and his agents  . The believer in Jesus Christ is above Satan and demons (Luke 10:19, Mark 16:17) 


   This is common in many African churches . It is common to find Christians in this part of the world changing churches up to ten times during their lifetime as a result of fear of witches ,demons and Satan . This is because they were exposed to parents who were or still in cults ,therefore, churches are designed in these regions using the same template as cults where a person need not have a personal relationship with God through Jesus Christ but rather a relationship with the pastor and his or her infinitesimal ministry to be safe and prosperous and despite this they are amongst the poorest persons in the world living on less than a dollar a day.


   This is the exact opposite of what the Bible teaches " Don’t let anyone condemn you by insisting on pious self-denial or the worship of angels, saying they have had visions about these things. Their sinful minds have made them proud," Colossians 2:18 NLT  the word 'angels' is the Greek word aggelos  it means a messenger, envoy, one who is sent, an angel, a messenger from God.  By extension it refers to the idolization of preachers . The consequence of human worship according to Col2:18  (1) self-denial ( self afflicted poverty )  2) visions about things ( delusion) 3) Pride ( arrogance and presumptuousness ) 


   This is a perfect recipe for marital crisis , emotional trauma, psychosis , ill health and poverty . Over seventy percent (70%) of Christians in west Africa suffer from one or multiple of these problems. This is not the will of God for his children . They are man-made.


   This was why Timothy was instructed to hold on to God's word like his parents did to avoid the aforementioned traumatic experiences. Children tend to replicate the spiritual and emotional adventures of their parents Ezek.16:44-45 . Evil family patterns are destroyed through a daily dose of God's undiluted Word, praying in the spirit and godly mentorship. 


   Through the Bible we know that true parenting is not merely by flesh but love and care ( Est 2:7, 1 Kings 3:26,27) Parents should care enough about their children's physical , emotional and spiritual wellbeing and avoid offending their children's faith ( 1Cor.8:9,11-12, Matt18:6)


  Children with obedient godly parents are rewarded with extraordinary breakthroughs ( Prov20:7, Deut12:28)  


Prayer : Heavenly father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation , I receive him as lord and savoir and receive the Holy Ghost and power for the restoration of damaged homes in Jesus name.


+2348035536911 +2348098536911 email: michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com


Thursday, March 21, 2024

DO NOT BE INTIMIDATED BY SIZE AND STRUCTURE OF THE OPPONENT

 DO NOT BE INTIMIDATED BY SIZE AND STRUCTURE OF THE OPPONENT

March 22, 2024

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 


  The Israelites were God's chosen people by covenant between God and Abraham. It was revealed to Abraham that they will be in bondage for four hundred years as a result of their rebellion against God. 


    After their great deliverance from Pharaoh's army they encountered several battles while pressing on their way to the promised land. They were given these rules of engagement with the enemy  “When you go out to fight your enemies and you face horses and chariots and an army greater than your own, do not be afraid. The lord your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, is with you! 


When you prepare for battle, the priest must come forward to speak to the troops. 


He will say to them, ‘Listen to me, all you men of Israel! Do not be afraid as you go out to fight your enemies today! Do not lose heart or panic or tremble before them. 


 For the lord your God is going with you! He will fight for you against your enemies, and he will give you victory!’  Deuteronomy 20:1-4


     In our battles in life we must understand that  we are not to underestimate or overestimate any challenge. It is by faith that we  overcome life's challenges . As a reminder of our need for him, God allows very difficult challenges to rise against us. They appear indomitable but God will want you to approach the problem without fear .


  Fear is as a result of the lack of trust in God's ability to provide for us. It is based on human selfish wisdom . 


   Even when human analysis does not favour you , that does not mean you shall be defeated. It is God's battle , not yours. The bible says , when Pharaoh was in hot pursuit of the Israelites , they became afraid . Yes, the fear was justifiable humanly speaking, He was better equipped and well structured unlike the structureless Israelites, but God said " "The lord himself will fight for you. Just stay calm.”  Exodus 14:14


    Victory in the arena of the physical starts with acknowledging our victory in the spirit   David  saw himself defeating Goliath before the fight likewise we must learn to see our victory through the eyes of the spirit .


 The bible says in 1John5:4 " For  whatsoever is born of  God overcometh the  world: and this is the  victory that overcometh  the world, even our  faith." You shall overcome 


  Prayer : Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation i receive him as lord and saviout and ask to be filled with the Holy Spirit and power for victorious living in Jesus name.


+2348035536911, +2348998536911 


  Email: michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Wednesday, March 20, 2024

GOD SHOWS US WHO TO VOTE FOR

 GOD SHOWS US WHO TO VOTE FOR

March 21, 2024

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

   "But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily distribution of food. 


  So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, “We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. 


  And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility."


Acts 6: 1-3 


     " He cared for them with a true heart and led them with skillful hands." Psalms 78:72


     As the early church began to increase there arose the problem of management of resources . Nepotism soon set in by the Jewish community resulting in the neglecting of non Jews in the distribution of resources . When the problem was brought before the leaders they proffered a Democratic and yet divine solution to the problem .


     The community was given the responsibility to choose amongst themselves men with proven integrity and track record of effective prudent performance in leadership. This is the most important ingredient in the choice of a leader . 


    He was not to be tribalistic or a religious bigot . Psalm 78:72 says he should be skillful in the management of human and material resources. Such a person should not be greedy and should be a lover of persons of  low estate . He is to have a servant's heart . Jesus Christ said "But among you it will be different. Whoever wants to be a leader among you must be your servant, and whoever wants to be first among you must become your slave. For even the Son of Man came not to be served but to serve others and to give his life as a ransom for many.” Matthew 20:28


  According to Acts 6 3 He should be filled with the spirit of God and wisdom.. God is love and to be  filled with the Spirit of God, one has to be filled with God's love. According to 1Corinthians 13:4-7 that means he is patient and kind ,,not jealous or boastful or proud or rude and does not demand his own way. He is not irritable, and keeps no record of being wronged and does not rejoice about injustice but rejoices whenever the truth wins out. He never gives up, never loses faith, and is always hopeful, and endures through every circumstances. 


  This requires walking in wisdom which comes from a daily meditation on scriptures. Wisdom teaches you to be at the right place at the right time with the right people while doing the right things . This comes from being prayerful and always in the company of righteous persons . 


   Unfortunately, many Christians neglect God's word on the choice of godly leaders and prefer persons with questionable characters who have promised to give them the opportunity to steal the people's Commonwealth. This is the reason behind the very high level of poverty and insecurity in Nigeria . Poverty is the result of the mismanagement of resources and oppression by those in leadership  positions ,  They shall give account before God on judgement day . (Isaiah 5;20, Rev,21:8)


  The reward of godly leadership is contained in  Proverbs 29:2 " When the godly are in authority, the people rejoice .But when the wicked are in power, they groan. " 


 Prayer : Heavenly Father , forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Spirit and wisdom for good governance .Amen 

+2348035536911, +2348098536911 email: michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

LET GOD SELECT WHO RULES OVER YOU

 Your tears of sorrow shall soon become tears of joy because of the anointing of God's favour  upon you.

Good-Life Devotional : 

LET GOD SELECT WHO  RULES OVER YOU

March 29, 2024

By Rev Michael  Benson Ajayi 

  " If this happens, be sure to select as king the man the lord your God chooses. You must appoint a fellow Israelite; he may not be a foreigner. " Deuteronomy 17:15 NLT"


For what man  knoweth the things of a  man, save the spirit of  man which is in him?  even so the things of  God knoweth no man,  but the Spirit of God." 1 Corinthians 2:11 KJV 


  There are three types of governance mentioned in the bible 1) Theocratic governance - where God ruled through an anointed servants like the case of Moses and Joshua, 2) Monarchy - like in the case of David and his son king Solomon, in this case power remained in a particular family and passed from generation to generation 3) Democracy as in the case of the early church where the leaders were prayerfully selected amongst the community of believers ( Acts 6:1-6) 


  The two most common types of governance is the Monarchy and Democratic types. God rules the world through leaders , likewise Satan rules ( 2Cor.4:4) the world through corrupt leaders by God's permission  . Leaders are installed to either punish or to reward  (Psalm 66:12) . Rebellious people are given hardhearted leaders and are given empathetic leaders when they repent and humble themselves. The bible Daniel 2:21 "And he changeth the times and the seasons: he removeth kings, and setteth up kings: he giveth wisdom unto the wise, and knowledge to them that know understanding:"


   God wants the best type of governance for his people . A good government is that which promotes righteousness , peace and prosperity and joy of its citizens (Rom14:17) .


   God gives us a guide in Deuteronomy 17: on how to select a President, King, Governor, senator, etc.


Verse 15: He must not be a foreigner but a person acquainted with the pains and sufferings of the people. He must be resident in that country .


Verse 16: He must not be a wasteful spender  or given to a flamboyant lifestyle with fleets of expensive imported  vehicles . 


Verse 17: He should not be a womanizer and greedy fellow ." The king must not take many wives for himself, because they will turn his heart away from the lord. And he must not accumulate large amounts of wealth in silver and gold for himself. " Deuteronomy 17:17


Verse 18: He must be a diligent student of the holy scriptures “When he sits on the throne as king, he must copy for himself this body of instruction on a scroll in the presence of the Levitical priests. " Deuteronomy 17:18


Verse 19: He must be given to meditation on scriptures in order to make sound judgements " He must always keep that copy with him and read it daily as long as he lives. That way he will learn to fear the lord his God by obeying all the terms of these instructions and decrees. " Deuteronomy 17:19

Verse 20 He must be humble and willing to attend to all . " This regular reading will prevent him from becoming proud and acting as if he is above his fellow citizens. It will also prevent him from turning away from these commands in the smallest way. And it will ensure that he and his descendants will reign for many generations" ' Voting a corrupt person into public office is a sin against God and humanity with catastrophic consequences .


Prayer : Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you , I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Spirit and power to make sound judgements. Amen.


+2348035536911, +2348098536911 email: 


michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Monday, March 18, 2024

TAKING AUTHORITY OVER PRINCIPALITIES

 The stronghold of the enemy over your family shall be broken because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good-Life Devotional: 

TAKING AUTHORITY OVER PRINCIPALITIES

March 18, 2024

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 


Mark 3:14-16 NIV  “ He appointed twelve — designating them apostles-that they might be with him and that he might send them out to preach and to have authority to drive out demons. “

       The word 'authority' is the Greek word  ‘exousia’ it means;  privilege, force, capacity, 

competency, freedom, mastery , magistrate, superhuman, potentate, token of control, delegated influence: The believer in Jesus Christ has been given delegated influence over satanic powers and just as darkness disappears at the appearance of light so does satanic powers surrender at the presence of the believer in Jesus Christ .  Authority is positional ( a function of the office a person occupies ) and ethereal  ( divine ,effective, real : though not physically visible ) God places persons into office to reward some persons and bring judgment on some others: even Satan has a role to play in divine justice on earth (1Cor. 5:5,1Tim1:20)

       Satan is not as powerful as portrayed by the religious . Religion portrays Satan as been strong enough to engage in an arm wrestling with Jesus Christ; such a poor representation of the power of God. It is like a toothpick engaged in arm wrestling with its maker.

       Satan is a creation of Jesus Christ (John 1:1-3) though with an independent right to make decisions and has a role to play in the enforcement of law and order on earth though with no reward just as your waste bin. The bible describes him as ‘the waster and destroyer ‘: a creation of God Isaiah 54:16 KJV  “……and I have created the waster to destroy.”  Isaiah 45:7 KJV says   “ I form the light, and create darkness: I make peace, and create evil: I the Lord do all these things.”The word ‘evil’ is the Hebrew word ' ra`  it means ‘bad or physical evil.  To understand this term , imagine the disaster that befalls terrorists when attacked with the superior weaponry of the allied military forces fighting  against global terrorism .Sometimes entire cities are reduced to rubbles while fighting against terrorism  . This action by the allied forces against illegitimate governance and terrorism is ordained by God , and under divine influence to succeed,   Rom 13:3-5 NIV Says“ For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God's servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God's servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. “

           The born again Christian is expected to be under God-ordained human authority in order to exercise divine influence over demonic powers. There are situations that one cannot overcome without the acknowledgment of the authority to whom one is assigned to honour . As a senior pastor I

experienced this first hand when my spiritual father Bishop Hayford went to be with the lord , I thought I could operate independent of a minister until I began to lose passion for and without a sense of fulfillment in ministry and upon enquiry through praying and searching the scriptures I was  referred by the lord to a preacher in my city as a symbol of authority. Its a tragedy to excel in what you've not been called to do that's why you need guidance from a mature Christian ,Romans13: 1 Let every soul be subject unto the higher  powers. For there is no power but of God: the  powers that be are ordained of God."

          Apostle Paul was referred to Ananias who prayed and scales fell off his eyes, there are many talented individuals living  below their capacity because of spiritual scales that can only be removed when  their ‘Ananias’ pray for them. Ananias serves as an umbrella under the hot sun of afflictions .  A leader  with scales will produce followers with scales in their eyes as well and when it comes with dealing with principalities and satanic strongholds ( demonic habits)  until a person submits to authority, victory will continue to be farfetched  even if Jesus  has paid the price for our freedom. 2 Cor 10:6 says "And having in a readiness to revenge all disobedience, WHEN YOUR OBEDIENCE IS FULFILLED " For instance angels will not support anyone with no respect for their believing spouse (1Cor.11:10, 1Pet. 3:7) . 

Prayer : Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost and power  to overturn every evil verdict concerning my family in Jesus name.

Free prayer/counseling +2348098536911.+2348035536911 email:michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Saturday, March 16, 2024

SEXUAL PLEASURE : HOLY AND A GIFT FROM GOD


March 17, 2023

 

 Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

" She is a loving deer, a graceful doe. Let her breasts satisfy you always. May you always be captivated by her love." Proverbs 5:19 NLT


" So God created man in His own image; in the image of God He created him; male and female He created them." Genesis 1:27 NKJV     Lovemaking in a marriage is ordained of God . It takes place between a married human male (husband ) and  human female (wife) according to God's original design in the Scriptures (Gen.1:27)  It is for procreation and for bonding between a husband  and his wife . It is sacred before God and should not be treated with levity .      Lovemaking should be at the forefront of discussions between a husband and a wife . The more we talk about a thing the more interesting and profitable  it appears to be. Faith in the ability of sex as a bonding and pleasurable agent comes from hearing words about it . Complaining too often  destroys the desire for sex. This is a major cause of infidelity. Married couples are to engage in sex-talk daily to keep passion alive 


   Satan understands this principle of the power of talking about sex so much that the entertainment industry is full of sex-talk and  visuals celebrating infidelity. Entertainers get paid heavily for promoting sexual perversion . This is against God's plan for our lives ( Galatians 5:19) and they who engage in such will give account before God (Galatians 5:21) 


   Sexual perversion is a strong tool used by the enemy to destroys Christian ministries and families .


   Married persons who talk less about sexual pleasures and fantasy are easily drawn by strangers who are not ashamed to speak about their sexual pleasures. Social media has made this easier for couples to flirt. 


  Highly spiritual persons are highly sexual . The message of the gospel is about love , including love for one's spouse , this triggers an increase for sexual pleasures and  if not readily available,  the temptation to seek for it outside marriage presents itself .Do not be a victim. Do not be too spiritual or busy to engage in sex talk with your spouse ,your safety depends on it .        


     The bible gives us an example " You are very beautiful, so desirable!  You are tall and slender like a palm tree, and your breasts are full.  I will climb that tree and cling to its branches. I will discover that your breasts are clusters of grapes, and that your breath is the aroma of apples.  Kissing you is more delicious than drinking the finest wine. How wonderful and tasty!  My darling, I am yours, and you desire me.  Let's stroll through the fields and sleep in the villages.  At dawn let's slip out and see if grapevines and fruit trees are covered with blossoms. When we are there, I will give you my love." Song of Songs 7:6‭-‬12 CEVBible  Sexual pleasure promotes good health among married persons. That is what grapes means in this scripture.


  Those who forbid marriage and sex- talk are in error (1Tim4:1-3) Priests, bishops and church officials are advised to get married ( Lev.21:10a,13, 1 Tim 3:2 ) Forbidding to marry and celibacy can result in terrible sexual perversion and humiliation of the priesthood. ( ROM.1:27; 1Cor 7:9, Gen.2:18) Christian communities should make marriages easier for persons of marriageable age.


    Women should be treated with respect and dignity not as sex toys ( 1Thes4:4-5) this is important for national stability and progress. The most unstable and poorest parts of the world are regions with no regards for their womenfolk. 

In marriage men and women are joined as one flesh (Eph5:31, 1Cor6:16) Sexual pleasure is a gift from God ( Prov.5;18-19) and should not be used to reward  or punished ( this opens doors for marital infidelity) (1Cor 7:3) . If a partner has lost sexual appetite chances are that he or she is frustrated by their spouse using sex as a bargaining tool. Healing comes from talking about your earlier pleasurable experiences and spending quality time with each other .


Prayer : Heavenly father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as Lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost and power to love and preserve my family in Jesus name.


+2348035536911 +2348098536911 e-mail : michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Friday, March 15, 2024

TOWARDS A HAPPY FAMILY

 TOWARDS A HAPPY FAMILY

March 16, 2024

Rev  Michael Benson Ajayi

  " Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6‭-‬7 NLT


   " He must manage his own family well, having children who respect and obey him. For if a man cannot manage his own household, how can he take care of God’s church?" 1 Timothy 3:4‭-‬5 NLT Bible


  The word 'manage ' is the word 'rule ' it is from  the Greek word 'proistēmi ' it means to set or place before , to set over ,to be over, to superintend, preside over , to be a protector or guardian , to give aid , to care for, give attention to , profess honest occupations.


      These are the features of a healthy family , the first objective of a husband and wife is for the family to always be set to fulfil a divine purpose .Every family is designed to fulfill a divine assignment on earth . The husband and wife are expected to seek God's counsel to know specifically what their mission on earth is. 


  Quarrels are the products of misplaced priorities which are as a result of the lack of vision. Most marriages suffer as a result of the pursuit of personal dreams while placing the gospel as second fiddle . 


    The husband is to constantly remind family members of the preeminence of the gospel in their affairs . How does this glorify the Lord? is  a question we should ask while engaged in any venture. Spouses should pray about everything ( sexuality ,money, family matters ,business , emotion trials etc) .    


     Praying together results in peace , binds hearts together ,the Bible says "I want them to be encouraged and knit together by strong ties of love. I want them to have complete confidence that they understand God’s mysterious plan, which is Christ himself." Colossians 2:2 NLT

God's mysteries are revealed through spirit inspired prayers. Such prayers requires a love filled heart . Therefore, strife should be avoided. Being happy should be chosen over being right in an argument. It is more dignifying to simply keep quiet and discontinue the argument. Seek God's counsel in the Bible in areas of disagreement

Let all who are spiritually mature agree on these things. If you disagree on some point, I believe God will make it plain to you."  Philippians 3:15 NLT

    Have intense  love for each other such that nothing else matters ( 1Pet 4:8) this way arguments simply dissolve into nothingness. 

The Bible says " Love prospers when a fault is forgiven, but dwelling on it separates close"  friends. Prov17:9 NLT  Arguments in a home opens doors for marital infidelity , the scriptures says "  It’s better to live alone in the desert than with a quarrelsome, complaining wife." Proverbs 21:19 NLT 

  And " A wise woman builds her home, but a foolish woman tears it down with her own hands." Proverbs 14:1 NLT

Prayer: Heavenly father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as Lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost  and power to forgive in Jesus name.

+2348035536911, +2348098536911 e-mail michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Thursday, March 14, 2024

THE WOMAN'S OBLIGATION TO HER HUSBAND

 THE WOMAN'S OBLIGATION TO HER HUSBAND

March 15 , 2024


By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 


   "So I advise these younger widows to marry again, have children, and take care of their own homes. Then the enemy will not be able to say anything against them." 1 Timothy 5:14 NLT


    The biblical  definition of a marriage is the union between a male and female human beings . The bible says in Mark 10:6 " But from the beginning of the creation God made them male and female. "  Each partner in the marriage has a specific role to play as prescribed by the Bible. 


   When a woman opens herself to be  led by the scriptures she gets rewarded with virtue and honour . This requires a lot of discipline and a determination to have a peaceful home. A virtuous woman starts her day with the Word of God and prayer. This is her source of strength and hope . A woman with a poor prayer and bible study culture is unstable, easily irritated , bitter , full of complaints, open to temptation and eventually destroys her home.  


   The first duty of the wife is to create a conducive atmosphere for her husband to carry out his priestly duties. It is advisable they have regular home bible studies together , this improves spiritual and emotional sensitivity and responsiveness . 


   The virtuous wife creates no room for idleness . She is her husband's physical , financial , emotional and spiritual helper .She a wise entrepreneur and manager of resources. 


The Bible says "  She makes belted linen garments and sashes to sell to the merchants. She carefully watches everything in her household and suffers nothing from laziness." Proverbs 31:24‭, ‬27 NLT . 

  She is not only concerned about her external beauty but the internal beauty of a meek and quiet spirit. " Don’t be concerned about the outward beauty of fancy hairstyles, expensive jewelry, or beautiful clothes. You should clothe yourselves instead with the beauty that comes from within, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is so precious to God. This is how the holy women of old made themselves beautiful. They put their trust in God and accepted the authority of their husbands.

" 1 Peter 3:3‭-‬5 NLTB

Women of great influence are known for their gracious silence . A woman can be virtuous and yet beautiful. Beauty should attract people to God .God used Esther's beauty to save the Jews from destruction.  (Esther Chap. 1 to Chap 9) .

   A virtuous woman is homely and is a source of companionship to her husband ( Mal2:14: Prov31:11 ) Good companionship is peaceful and prevents wastage . It is borne out of the understanding that though we are equal heirs in Christ she is meant to submit to ensure orderliness  in the home. (Eph5;22; 1Pet3;1-6) This is done in love . A loving husband makes submission from his wife easy. 

     Loving is submitting and vice versa . A virtuous wife loves and pleases her husband ( Titus2:4 ; Proverbs 31:12 , 1Cor7:34)  Faith for the miraculous works in an atmosphere of  love. 

Prayer : Heavenly father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as Lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost and power for unlimited breakthroughs in Jesus name.

+2348035536911 +2348098536911 e-mail michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Wednesday, March 13, 2024

A HUSBAND'S OBLIGATION TO HIS WIFE

 A HUSBAND'S OBLIGATION TO HIS WIFE

March 14, 2024

By Rev. Michael

Benson Ajayi 

"I do not let women teach men or have authority over them. Let them listen quietly. For God made Adam first, and afterward he made Eve". 1Tim2:12


   In the old testament ( Exodus 12 ) the head of the home carried out the act of atonement that was meant for the priest's office by sacrifice of a lamb . 


 In Genesis 14 Abraham the husband to Sarah was introduced to his high priest Melchizedek to whom he gave tithes as a mark of humility and submission to God  , submission to divine authority and in Genesis 15 he began to operate in the priestly office. Only the priest made a sacrifice to God . The husband's first duty is to play the role of a priest to his wife.


The bible says in 1 Cor. 11: 3 "But I  would have you know, that the head of every man  is Christ; and the head of the woman is the man;  and the head of Christ is God." 


 Apostle Paul spelt out the role of the husband as priest to his wife . the word 'head' is the Greek word kephalē  from the primary root word ' Kapto ' ( seizing ) and it means ( metaphorically ) anything supreme, chief, prominent : of persons, master lord: of a husband in relation to his wife ; of Christ: the Lord of the husband and of the Church of things: the corner stone. 


   These are the titles synonymous with the priesthood , only a priest can 'seize' spiritually. It is for this reason Sarah called Abraham Lord 1 Peter 3:6 'Even as Sarah obeyed Abraham,  calling him lord: whose daughters ye are, as long  as ye do well, and are not afraid with any  amazement.' 


The husband's spiritual office is likened to that of our loving great high Jesus Christ . 


  Like the Lord,  the husband is to tenderly love his wife , the bible says "For husbands, this means love your wives, just as Christ loved the church. He gave up his life for her" Ephesians 5:25 NLT He should provide for her within available resources and discourage wastefulness.


  Jesus Christ is the model for the husband in relations to his wife , he should be ready to give up his life for his wife just like Jesus Christ did for the church . The scriptures says "  So again I say, each man must love his wife as he loves himself, and the wife must respect her husband." Ephesians 5:33 NLT A man's life and wellbeing to a large extent  depends on his love for his wife. The bible says "Husbands, love your wives and never treat them harshly." Colossians 3:19 NLT Treating a wife harshly affects children resulting in very bitter and oppressive adults with low self-esteem. Love builds self-esteem


   Love involves listening to a wife's wise counsel ( 2Kings 4:8-10, Judg13:19-23) God speaks to wives' as much as the husbands and listening to a wife builds her self esteem and saves  families from major problems . listeners are great problem solvers. 


  A husband in addition to providing for the family should honour and please his wife . He should praise her as often as possible . This helps her overcome life's low moments  especially during midlife crisis ( when in her forties and fifties) . The bible says "In the same way, you husbands must give honor to your wives .Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. ," 1Pet.3:7 and 1Cor.7:33 " he that is married cares ..about how he may please his wife". and Prov.31:28 " Her husband ..praises her." 


Prayer : Heavenly father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as Lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost and power to love under unpleasant circumstances in Jesus name. 


+2348035536911 , +2348098536911 e-mail michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Tuesday, March 12, 2024

MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY

 MARRIAGE AND THE FAMILY

March 13 , 2024

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi

      " Then the Lord God said, “It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper who is just right for him.”Genesis 2:18 NLT

    “Haven’t you read the Scriptures?” Jesus replied. “They record that from the beginning  ‘God made them male and female.’ ”  And he said, “‘This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.’  Since they are no longer two but one, let no one split apart what God has joined together.” Honor your father and mother. Love your neighbor as yourself.’ ”Matthew 19:4‭-‬6‭, ‬19 NLT


  The word 'joined ' is the Greek word 'proskollaō ' it means : to glue upon, glue, to join one's self to closely, cleave to, stick to "  The marriage relationship is like conjoined twins. Each persons shares in the other person's hurts and joys , it changes the lives of the married dramatically and under the Lord's leading, it is one of the most extraordinary and rewarding experience one could ever have. It is the word of God that glues couples together (1Cor6:17;Eph4:16,Col.1:17) Their love for one another is directly proportional to their love for sound doctrine of God's word.


   Marriage is a commitment or a spiritual covenant before God ( Eze16:8 ,Mal2:14) For the believer ,its primary purpose is to create a healthy environment where godly children  will be raised for the promotion of  God's kingdom  (Mal2:15) . Whatever a person is exposed to during the formative years ( 1-25 years ) forms the bulk of that person's character during their adult life (Prov22:6)  God wanted Moses to lead his people out of Egypt  that was what informed Moses being raised by pharaoh's daughter ,same with Joseph. Persons who grew up under selfish,   bitter parenting tend to be in bitter marriages . Studying a person's background gives us a picture of and whether we fit into their destiny . This should inform the choice of a marriage partner . 


   Marriage gives companionship and strength , the bible says " In the same way, you HUSBANDS MUST GIVE HONOUR TO YOUR WIVES  .Treat your wife with understanding as you live together. She may be weaker than you are, but SHE IS YOUR EQUAL PARTNER in God’s gift of new life. Treat her as you should so your prayers will not be hindered." 1 Peter 3:7 NLT

   The anointing  in the wife is not inferior to that of the husband, failure to understand this truth results in instability in a marriage and hindrance to prayers . God hates the dominion theology that labels a person created in God's image as inferior (Matt20:25-28) unfortunately , it is being promoted by many preachers today with many marital casualties in the church .

   Marriage is designed to make us stronger and devoted to God ( Ecc4:9-11) It helps us find solution to some of life's problems ( 1Cor7:2, 9) It helps us attain emotional stability , sanity , sanctity and economic viability if guided by God's word. The bible says  " So I advise these younger widows to marry again, have children, and take care of their own homes. Then the enemy will not be able to say anything against them." 1 Timothy 5:14 NLT

 . Here marriage is a cure to the problems of widowhood  :especially sexually active persons. Changing location sometimes facilitates marriage for young widows or widowers. 

Prayer : Heavenly father forgive  me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost and power for protection from harm in Jesus name. Amen 

+2348035536911 +2348098536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Monday, March 11, 2024

LIMITATIONS OF RELIGIOUS LEGALISM

 


LIMITATIONS OF RELIGIOUS LEGALISM

March 12 , 2024

 

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

"You have died with Christ, and he has set you free from the spiritual powers of this world. So why do you keep on following the rules of the world, such as,"Colossians 2:20 NLT


" I do not treat the grace of God as meaningless. For if keeping the law could make us right with God, then there was no need for Christ to die." Galatians 2:21 NLT


   The 613 laws of Moses places the burden of salvation on man ; while the law of grace places the demand on the finished work of Jesus Christ on the cross . The born again Christian is saved because of the obedience of Jesus Christ. The law demands absolute obedience to the six hundred and thirteen laws for a person to be saved. Failure in one aspect of the law brought about a curse

  Despite the stringent nature of the law, those under the era of the law enjoyed God's love and mercy . The high priests  who were bound by the law sometimes broke it (John7:22-24; Matt12:10-13) . There were exceptions that allowed the law of Moses to be broken . For instance , the unsanctified were allowed to eat the Passover ( 2Chron 30:26-18) this was against the law.  David ate the shewbread which was not allowed by the laws of Moses ( 1Sam21:6; Matt12:1-4) 


  God always wanted mercy and love more than religious legalism " I want you to show love, not offer sacrifices. I want you to know me more than I want burnt offerings" .(Hosea 6:6 NLT, Mic6:6-8, Mk 12:33)


   Religious legalism is an overwhelming burden when imposed on anyone . Jesus said "They crush people with unbearable religious demands and never lift a finger to ease the burden." Matthew 23:4 NLT 


   The bible warns that we avoid the concision : they were believers who were still bound by the law of Moses. ( Phil3:2,3)  they seek to bring God's people under the law even when they cannot keep the 613 laws. The bible says  "So Christ has truly set us free. Now make sure that you stay free, and don’t get tied up again in slavery to the law." Galatians 5:1 NLT


   Religious legalism is a denial of Jesus' sacrifice while replacing it with self-righteousness . The bible says  " For they don’t understand God’s way of making people right with himself. Refusing to accept God’s way, they cling to their own way of getting right with God by trying to keep the law." Romans 10:3 NLT and " I do not treat the grace of God as meaningless. For if keeping the law could make us right with God, then there was no need for Christ to die." Galatians 2:21 NLT


   The law cannot save or make a person righteous. Religious legalism promotes corruption and marital infidelity  that's why the most unhappy nations  are those who promote religious legalism .  


The bible says  “Don’t handle! Don’t taste! Don’t touch!”? Such rules are mere human teachings about things that deteriorate as we use them. These rules may seem wise because they require strong devotion, pious self-denial, and severe bodily discipline. But they provide no help in conquering a person’s evil desires." Colossians 2:21‭-‬23 NLT     Religious legalism lacks the power to save a marriage or country .  The bible says " Everyone who believes in him is made right in God’s sight—something the law of Moses could never do." Acts 13:39 NLT ; Phil 3:3-9 .     Those who seek to follow the law are under bondage , the inability to keep the law brings about the curse . 'But those who depend on the law to make them right with God are under his curse, for the Scriptures say, “Cursed is everyone who does not observe and obey all the commands that are written in God’s Book of the Law.” Galatians 3:10 NLT James2:10, Debut 27:26


Prayer: Heavenly father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died ams was raised again for my salvation I receive him as Lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost and power to make great progress in the face of adversity in Jesus name.


+2348035536911 +2348098536911 e-mail michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Sunday, March 10, 2024

ABUSE OF THE LAW OF LIBERTY

 WARNING AGAINST THE ABUSE OF THE LAW OF LIBERTY

Mark 11 , 2024

   

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

  " Well then, should we keep on sinning so that God can show us more and more of his wonderful grace? Of course not! Since we have died to sin, how can we continue to live in it?" Romans 6:1‭-‬2 NLT


 " And if another believer is distressed by what you eat, you are not acting in love if you eat it. Don’t let your eating ruin someone for whom Christ died." Romans 14:15 NLT


  The new law in Jesus Christ also known as the perfect law of liberty (James1:25) the holy commandment ( 2 Pet.2:21) The new covenant (Her 31:31) the law of faith ( Rom3:27) the law of the Spirit of life ( Rom8:2) is often interpreted to mean liberty or the license to be free . While it gives us freedom from the demands of the laws of Moses ,it does not give is freedom from the Lord . The law of Christ is a Law like any other law . Laws have governing abilities and punitive capacities. It is not a license to live in sin and rebellion against godly authority.


   A pilot of a fighter jet is governed by the laws of aerodynamics and it says if he flies a jet below a certain speed ( 100 to 200 knots) the aircraft will be taken over by another law called the law of gravity . The universe is governed by laws and one of which is the law of liberty in Jesus Christ. Like a fighter jet ,the law  of Christ only  operates under certain conditions one of which is love for God and one's neighbour . Seeking to operate this law outside these conditions brings a person under the law of condemnation . That was what became of the man who was having   sexual relations with his stepmother in the Corinthian church  "Then you must throw this man out and hand him over to Satan so that his sinful nature will be destroyed and he himself will be saved on the day the Lord returns." 1 Corinthians 5:5 NLT


 Similar acts which gives Satan control over a Christian family are mentioned in (Galatian 5:19-21 and 1 Cor5:10-11) They result in the destruction of communities . There is no love in them . They are products of the selfish sinful nature ; liberty that does not result in people being born again and filled with the Holy Ghost is satanic and will be destroyed .

  Our freedom should not lead to the spiritual fall of others ( 1Cor.8:9,12) Some things are just not necessary and therefore, should be avoided , they only bring about shame and dishonour to the name of the Lord. ( 1Cor.6;12)

  We are to walk in love and love is a righteous virtue with no room for sin. " For you have been called to live in freedom, my brothers and sisters. But don’t use your freedom to satisfy your sinful nature. Instead, use your freedom to serve one another in love." Galatians 5:13 NLT

    Before making a decision consider how it will effect others. This kind of thinking .makes you an effective and good servant of our lord. 

Prayer: Heavenly father forgive me of my  sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as Lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost and power for extraordinary fruitfulness in Jesus name.

+2348035536911 +2348098536911 email: michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com 

Saturday, March 9, 2024

PROMOTION OF HUMAN TRADITIONS OVER GODS WORD HINDERS BREAKTHROUGHS

 The anointing of God's favour upon you  is removing the obstacles hindering your recovery .

Good-Life Devotional :

PROMOTION OF HUMAN TRADITIONS OVER GODS WORD HINDERS BREAKTHROUGHS 

March 9 , 2024

By Rev.Michael Benson Ajayi 


"Their worship is a farce, for they teach man-made ideas as commands from God.’ ”Matthew 15:9 NLT


" Then he said, “You skillfully sidestep God’s law in order to hold on to your own tradition."Mark 7:9 NLTBible 


   The laws of Moses were mixed by the religious teachers with human traditions to produce another law to oppress their followers . There was no equity and fairness in the judicial  system . The same applies to many Churches today ,they teach man- made theology which promotes corruption in the society . Tradition teaches that your sins are acceptable as long as you keep donating money to religious leaders. Human traditions lacks the life transformation power of Gods word ." Then he said, “You skillfully sidestep God’s law in order to hold on to your own tradition."Mark 7:9 NLT


   The Bible warns us against exalting man's traditions above God's word . Human tradition is not bad in itself as long as it is just , fair and honours God. . 


    The religious teachers of Jesus' time were promoting their traditions above God's word. The scriptures says " Jesus replied, “And why do you, by your traditions, violate the direct commandments of God?  Their worship is a farce, for they teach man-made ideas as commands from God.’ ”Matthew 15:3‭, ‬9 


  They promoted their denominations above God's family resulted in divisions amongst God's people .   "Now I say this, that each of you says, “I am of Paul,” or “I am of Apollos,” or “I am of Cephas,” or “I am of Christ.” Is Christ divided? Was Paul crucified for you? Or were you baptized in the name of Paul? 1 Corinthians 1:12‭-‬13 NKJV and 


"I appeal to you, dear brothers and sisters, by the authority of our Lord Jesus Christ, to live in harmony with each other. Let there be no divisions in the church. Rather, be of one mind, united in thought and purpose. Has Christ been divided into factions? Was I, Paul, crucified for you? Were any of you baptized in the name of Paul? Of course not!" 1 Corinthians 1:10‭, ‬13 NLT


   We should follow after sound scriptural doctrines . Sound doctrines is that which allows for critical thinking and reasoning. Faith requires common sense or logic .That's why God gave man a brain . We do not need fasting and prayer to know fire burns the skin . The bible says " If you instruct the brethren in these things, you will be a good minister of Jesus Christ, nourished in the words of faith and of the good doctrine which you have carefully followed. But reject profane and old wives’ fables, and exercise yourself toward godliness .I Timothy 4:6‭-‬7 NKJV


 Prayer: Heavenly father  forgive me of my sins against  you I believe Jesus Christ died  and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost and power for fruitfulness in Jesus name. 


+2348035536911 +2348098536911 email michaelbensonajayi @gmail.com

Wednesday, March 6, 2024

THE MOST IMPORTANT DAY IN YOUR LIFE

 Your labour shall not be in vain because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good-Life Devotional: THE MOST IMPORTANT DAY OF YOUR LIFE

March 7/3/24 

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

The two most important days of our  lives is the day of our birth and the day of death .

Between these days we have our youth to enjoy and the Bible says "

Young people, it’s wonderful to be young! Enjoy every minute of it. Do everything you want to do; take it all in. But remember that you must give an account to God for everything you do" . ‭‭Ecclesiastes‬ ‭11:9‬ ‭NLT‬‬

   We were created for a purpose to serve God and God has given the holy scriptures  to discover our individual purpose . Failure to do so leads to dishonouring God like Adam and Eve did in the garden of Eden .

The penalty for sin which is dishonouring God is spiritual death : a separation from God. Romans 6:23 "For the wages of sin is death; but the gift of God is eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.'

   The  spiritually dead will perish in hell fire Mark 9:43 "..go into hell, into the fire that never shall be quenched: " It is a place of extreme pain for eternity . It is described as a place " Where their worm dieth not, and the fire is not quenched. " Mark 9: 45 it is also described as a place of torment in Luke 16::28. 

   God does not want anyone to  go to hell but unfortunately many will be there by their refusal to accept Jesus Christ. Jesus Christ said John 5:24 "Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that heareth my word, and believeth on him that sent me, hath everlasting life, and shall not come into condemnation; but is passed from death unto life. " He is our salvation from hell fire given that he took the punishment for the sins of humanity on the cross of Calvary. He took our sins and gave us his righteousness. 

    The Bible says in 2 Corinthians 5:19,21 " To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them;...and  [21]For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.'

   We are declared righteous before God because of Jesus' sacrifice. 

  As the days pass by we are one day closer to the day of giving account before God. It will happen the day we die on  earth.  The scriptures says Hebrews 9:27"And as it is appointed unto men once to die, but after this the judgment:" also Ecclesiastes 12:13-14 'Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man. For God shall bring every work into judgment, with every secret thing, whether it be good, or whether it be evil." We all have an appointment with the judge of the universe are you ready ? 2 Corinthians 5:10 "For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad."

Prayer: Heavenly Father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and  receive the Holy Spirit and  power to serve you .Amen.

Prayer : +2348035536911 email :Michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Tuesday, March 5, 2024

GOD'S PROMISE OF MERCY

 GOD'S PROMISE OF MERCY

March 5 , 2024


By Rev. Michael Benson Ajayi 

" In a burst of anger I turned my face away for a little while. But with everlasting love I will have compassion on you,” says the Lord , your Redeemer." Isaiah 54:8 NLT


 “For if you return to the Lord , your relatives and your children will be treated mercifully by their captors, and they will be able to return to this land. For the Lord your God is gracious and merciful. If you return to him, he will not continue to turn his face from you.”2 Chronicles 30:9 NLT


   One of the consequences of backsliding is emotional and physical slavery by oppressors . Many of God's people have lost the joy that comes with salvation. They suffer emotional and physical pains silently in the hands of persons who use them as tools or objects of pleasure. Emotional insecurity is a major cause of diseases suffered by God's people . 


  Among the consequences of backsliding the bible says the backslidden is brought to nought ( Deut28:63) they shall be hurt in the midst of plenty (Josh24;20) Destroyed dreams ( Jer15:6) The Holy Ghost will resist them ( Ezra8;22) and the unrepentant backslidden is in danger of the judgment  


" Dear friends, if we deliberately continue sinning after we have received knowledge of the truth, there is no longer any sacrifice that will cover these sins." Hebrews 10:26 NLT (  2Pet.2:21)


    God never stops loving the backslidden neither does he stop them from breathing his oxygen and enjoying his sun and rain .God still loves the backslidden despite their hatred for his words of righteousness. He longs to reconcile with the backslidden , therefore, " Let the wicked change their ways and banish the very thought of doing wrong. Let them turn to the Lord that he may have mercy on them. Yes, turn to our God, for he will forgive generously." Isaiah 55:7 NLTBible


   That is why the Lord says, “Turn to me now, while there is time. Give me your hearts. Come with fasting, weeping, and mourning. Don’t tear your clothing in your grief, but tear your hearts instead.” Return to the Lord your God, for he is merciful and compassionate, slow to get angry and filled with unfailing love. He is eager to relent and not punish."Joel 2:12‭-‬13 NLTBible 


  Backsliding is likened to a disease ,it affects every aspect of a person's life and the lord promises to heal the backslidden. The bible says “My wayward children,” says the Lord , “come back to me, and I will heal your wayward hearts.” “Yes, we’re coming,” the people reply, “for you are the Lord our God."Jeremiah 3:22 NLT


  The attitude of the backslidden should be that of remorse and a repentant heart  .The Bible says  " Then if my people who are called by my name will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, I will hear from heaven and will forgive their sins and restore their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14 NLT. Healing involves developing a holy irritation for sin and backsliding ( Eze36:31. Luke15:19-21) 


  The bible says “Come, let us return to the Lord . He has torn us to pieces; now he will heal us. He has injured us; now he will bandage our wounds."Hosea 6:1 NLT


Prayer : Heavenly father forgive me of my  sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost and power to heal the broken hearted in Jesus name.


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Monday, March 4, 2024

FELLOWSHIP WITH UNREPENTANT BACKSLIDER HINDERS PROGRESS

 FELLOWSHIP WITH UNREPENTANT BACKSLIDER HINDERS PROGRESS 

March 5, 2024

By Rev. Michael Benson Ajayi 

"Your boasting about this is terrible. Don’t you realize that this sin is like a little yeast that spreads through the whole batch of dough? Get rid of the old “yeast” by removing this wicked person from among you. Then you will be like a fresh batch of dough made without yeast, which is what you really are. Christ, our Passover Lamb, has been sacrificed for us."1 Cor 5:6‭-‬7 NLT

  In 1Corinthians Chapter 5 , a backslidden christian man was engaged in sexual relations with his father's wife : such sexual perversions brings shame to the church . The Holy Spirit is grieved whenever a Christian backslides . It is an act of betrayal .Every miracle of healing , employment , finance ,marriage ,children etc we received was given to us for the promotion of the gospel in righteousness and for soul winning  .The bible says  "Search for the Lord and for his strength; continually seek him. Remember the wonders he has performed, his miracles, and the rulings he has given, He gave his people the lands of pagan nations, and they harvested crops that others had planted. All this happened so they would follow his decrees and obey his instructions. Praise the Lord !" Psalms 105:4‭-‬5‭, ‬44‭-‬45 NLT

    Backsliding grieves the lord ,it is a reminder of Adam and Eve's betrayal of the lord in Eden. The scripture says " And my righteous ones will live by faith. But I will take no pleasure in anyone who turns away.”  Hebrews 10:38 NLT and ' But Jesus told him, “Anyone who puts a hand to the plow and then looks back is not fit for the Kingdom of God.”Luke 9:62 NLT.

   The bible describes backsliding as evil “For my people have done two evil things: They have abandoned me— the fountain of living water. And they have dug for themselves cracked cisterns that can hold no water at all! Your wickedness will bring its own punishment. Your turning from me will shame you. You will see what an evil, bitter thing it is to abandon the Lord your God and not to fear him. I, the Lord, the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, have spoken!Jeremiah 2:13‭, ‬19 NLT

   Backsliding is the result of allowing bitterness to grow in one's heart ( Heb.12:15) while being led away by vain imaginations (Jer.7;24 ) Idleness and gossiping also results in backsliding (1Tim 5:12,13;2 Tim 2:16) also a lack of fear for the lord demonstrated in not giving the Abrahamic tithe (Jer4:4 Deut. 14:23) Craving fellowships with haters of the words of  righteousness ( James 4:4) and fellowshipping with troublemakers ( 1Cor.15;33, Pro.13;20) results in backsliding.

    There are unpleasant consequences when a persons habitually fellowships with the backslidden. Backsliding is a deliberate attack against truth and partnership with the backslidden  requires compromising one's position on truth and eventually embracing deceitfulness ,corruption as a way of life . The Bible says " Of your own selves shall men arise , speaking perverse things , to draw away disciples after them ." Acts 29:28-30 and the backslidden is full of fear often masqueraded in arrogance and presumptuousness ( a know- it -all attitude) . Arrogance and presumptuousness are highly contagious and has destroyed many marriages and families (Deut. 20:8) 

   A backslidden Christian is unreliable and cannot be trusted , he or she is undependable . Therefore , it is not enough to vote someone into a sensitive political office or marry a person because of their claim to being a Christian . Christianity is more about a person's disposition to godliness and honesty than a religious title and involvement in church activities . 

Prayer : Heavenly father forgive me of my sins against you  I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the holy ghost and power to make progress in the face of adversity in Jesus name . 

+2348035536911 +2348098536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Sunday, March 3, 2024

BACKSLIDING : LOSS OF FIRST LOVE FOR CHRIST

 BACKSLIDING : LOSS OF FIRST LOVE

March  04, 2024


  By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi

  "Obviously people who say such things are looking forward to a country they can call their own. If they had longed for the country they came from, they could have gone back."Hebrews 11:14‭-‬15 NLT


". But as for me, I almost lost my footing. My feet were slipping, and I was almost gone. For I envied the proud when I saw them prosper despite their wickedness." Psalms 73:2‭-‬3 NLT


    Backsliding is a term used to describe a condition were a person loses interest in the lord and his will . From the above scriptures, it is as a result of a christian desiring to live like a non believer . 


    When a person gets born again there is a need to renew one's mind. Renewing ones mind is liking pouring water into a clean glass cup . The backslidden heart is like pouring clean water into a dirty cup and expecting the water to be clean . The human heart is likened to a cup (vessels). "In a wealthy home some utensils are made of gold and silver, and some are made of wood and clay. The expensive utensils are used for special occasions, and the cheap ones are for everyday use. If you keep yourself pure, you will be a special utensil for honorable use. Your life will be clean, and you will be ready for the Master to use you for every good work" .2Tim 2:20-21 NLT. 


    Backsliding is inevitable when a person is filled with his or her own ways or cravings .  


"The backslider in heart will be filled with his own ways, But a good man will  be  satisfied from above." Proverbs 14:14 NKJV When a person has a know-it-all attitude and thinks he or she is beyond correction they become prone to  backsliding. This is as a result having idols in one's heart ( Ezek 14:3,5,7-8 , Col3:5) 

   Backsliding is also caused by placing temporal gains over our heavenly goal . The bible says  "Where there is no vision, the people perish: but he that keepeth the law, happy is he." Proverbs 29:18 KJV

   Fair-weather-friends who quit when the going gets tough are prone to backsliding . The bible says " The seed on the rocky soil represents those who hear the message and immediately receive it with joy.  But since they don’t have deep roots, they don’t last long. They fall away as soon as they have problems or are persecuted for believing God’s word." Matthew 13:20‭-‬21 NLT Luke8:13, 

   The backslidden have questioning,  unbelieving  and doubting attitude , nothing about church excites the backslidden anymore  (John6:60,66 Heb 3:12)  under such conditions a persons is prone to making terrible decisions against God. Backsliding is the first step towards marital infidelity and demonic oppressions and manipulation . The backslidden cannot be  trusted with kingdom resources because of the selfishness of their hearts . In our daily prayers we should pray for increasing  hunger for God's word , humility  and  against  backsliding.

Prayer: Heavenly father forgive me of my  sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as Lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost and power for stability and revival in my devotion to God's work in  Jesus name. 

 

+2348035536911  +2348098536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com 


Saturday, March 2, 2024

DISCIPLESHIP AND GOVERNANCE

 


  


 By Rev. Michael Benson Ajayi

 "You will be driven away from people and will live with the wild animals; you will eat grass like the ox. Seven times will pass by for you until you acknowledge that the Most High is sovereign over all kingdoms on earth and gives them to anyone he wishes.”  All the peoples of the earth are regarded as nothing. He does as he pleases with the powers of heaven and the peoples of the earth. No one can hold back his hand or say to him: “What have you done?” Daniel 4:32‭, ‬35 NIV

"By me kings reign and rulers issue decrees that are just;  by me princes govern, and nobles—all who rule on earth."Proverbs 8:15‭-‬16 NIV

   God rules the world and has instituted governments to fulfill his purpose for a period . Jesus Christ was quick to remind  Pilate who was in charge during his trial .The Bible says “Do you refuse to speak to me?” Pilate said. “Don’t you realize I have power either to free you or to crucify you?”  Jesus answered, “You would have no power over me if it were not given to you from above. Therefore the one who handed me over to you is guilty of a greater sin.” John 19:10‭-‬11 NIV

  Governments the world over are instituted by God to either reward or punish.  Satan also has a role to play in the fulfilment of God's purpose of governance on earth . God has allowed the devil a limited amount of control over the governments of the world . The fact that you do not like the person in power does not mean he or she was not installed by God. However, we are obligated not to obey laws which cause us to deny Jesus Christ . The Bible says " Then they called them in again and commanded them not to speak or teach at all in the name of Jesus. But Peter and John replied, “Which is right in God’s eyes: to listen to you, or to him? You be the judges! As for us, we cannot help speaking about what we have seen and heard.” Acts 4:18‭-‬20 NIV The disciples resisted every attempt to censor the preaching of the gospel by the authorities .

  We are instructed to pray for government officials and  governments.  Do not curse your ruler. The scriptures says "  Never make light of the king, even in your thoughts. And don’t make fun of the powerful, even in your own bedroom. For a little bird might deliver your message and tell them what you said. " Ecclesiastes 10:20 NLT

  You cannot be blessed by a leader you curse or imagine evil of . The scriptures says prayers should be made for kings and all in authority. ( 1Tim 2:1) We should be good citizens and in obedience  to the governing powers . ( Ti3:1) and  " Respect everyone, and love the family of believers. Fear God, and respect the king."1 Peter 2:17 NLT. Accord respect to your presidents , governors, senators etc.

   We are required to perform community and national duties conscientiously and always  put in your best at all times as though you are working for the Lord's enterprise  (Rom13:7, Matt22;21) 

Prayer : Heavenly father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost and power for excellent leadership in Jesus name. 

+2348035536911 , +2348098536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com


Friday, March 1, 2024

NOT BRINGING SHAME TO HIS NAME

 NOT BRINGING SHAME TO HIS NAME

March 2 , 2024

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi

  "We live in such a way that no one will stumble because of us, and no one will find fault with our ministry. In everything we do, we show that we are true ministers of God. We patiently endure troubles and hardships and calamities of every kind." 2 Corinthians 6:3‭-‬4 NLT


    " Then you will not be criticized for doing something you believe is good." Romans 14:16 NLT


    The Spirit of the Lord liberates and the liberty a person enjoys is not meant to bring others into bondage. Liberty without boundaries is a glorified bondage:  it does more harm than good . An example of this is drinking and getting drunk while driving beyond speed limits through a neighborhood filled with children . The consequence of this act is best left to be imagined. 


   The disciple of Jesus Christ is called to be a good example wherever they are . We are called to be honest and sincere examples in society . The bible describes the believer in Jesus Christ as light and says " In the same way, let your good deeds shine out for all to see, so that everyone will praise your heavenly Father." Matthew 5:16 NLT Most persons do not attend church not because the hate Jesus Christ but because of the unhealthy acts of some believers. 


    The scriptures also says , " Don’t let anyone think less of you ... Be an example to all believers in what you say, in the way you live, in your love, your faith, and your purity." 1 Timothy 4:12 NLTBible


     Believers in Jesus Christ are an integral part of the success of any government . They are the spiritual backbone of those in power . They are expected to pray for those in authority and give advice whenever necessary. 


   Integrity is the driving force behind the successful implementation of government policies , therefore, the believer in Jesus Christ is better equipped to help in the execution of government and company  policies like Daniel in Babylon and Joseph in Egypt. The Bibles says "so that no one can criticize you. Live clean, innocent lives as children of God, shining like bright lights in a world full of crooked and perverse people." Philippians 2:15 NLT 


   Our liberties in Jesus Christ should not be a stumbling block to the spiritual , emotional and physical developments of others . The bible says " You say, “I am allowed to do anything”—but not everything is good for you. And even though “I am allowed to do anything,” I must not become a slave to anything." 1 Corinthians 6:12 NLT. 


   The abuse of liberty leads to slavery : yours and others . Many Christians struggle with evil addictions with many dead today because they were misled by another Christian's abuse of liberty. Married couples must set boundaries with regards to their relationships with others . Stay away from Christians who promote immorality under the cover of liberty and brotherly love ( 1Cor.5: 9-13) The Bible says  " It’s true that we can’t win God’s approval by what we eat. We don’t lose anything if we don’t eat it, and we don’t gain anything if we do. But you must be careful so that your freedom does not cause others with a weaker conscience to stumble. " 1 Corinthians 8:8‭-‬9 NLTBible 


Prayer: Heavenly father forgive me of my sins against you I believe Jesus Christ died and was raised again for my salvation I receive him as lord and saviour and receive the Holy Ghost and power to be a godly role model in Jesus name.


+2348035536911, +2348098536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com