HOW TO IDENTIFY FLATTERY

 You are beyond the reach of witchcraft manipulations because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good -Life Devotional:  HOW

TO IDENTIFY FLATTERY

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

   Flattery is not the same as genuine encouragement. Compliments focus on building others up, while flattery focuses on manipulation. 

EXCESSIVE OR GRAND PHRASING: 

   Look out for over-the-top praise that feels disproportionate to your actual actions.  The bible says "A lying tongue hates those it hurts, and a flattering mouth works ruin." (Proverbs 26:28)  

HIDDEN AGENDAS: 

   Notice if the praise is immediately followed by a request for a favor, money, or loyalty. The Bible says  "Those who flatter their neighbors are spreading nets for their feet." (Proverbs 29:5) [1, 2]

INCONSISTENCY IN BEHAVIOR: 

      Watch how the person speaks about others; if they praise you but instantly gossip about someone else, their words are unreliable. The Bible says : "For there is no faithfulness in their mouth... they flatter with their tongue." (Psalm 5:9) 

EXCLUSIVELY POSITIVE FEEDBACK: 

   Be cautious of individuals who refuse to offer constructive criticism when honest feedback is clearly needed. The Bible says  "He who rebukes a man will find more favor afterward than he who flatters with the tongue." (Proverbs 28:23) 

UNEARNED INTIMACY: 

   Be alert if someone acts like a close confidant immediately after meeting you, using smooth words to gain quick trust. The Bible says "For such people are not serving our Lord Christ, but their own appetites. By smooth talk and flattery they deceive the minds of the naive." (Romans 16:18) 

HOW TO AVOID FLATTERY

   Protecting yourself from flattery requires a mix of self-awareness, biblical discernment, and active boundaries.

CHECK YOUR EGO:   

    Acknowledge your own areas of pride. Flatterers succeed because their victims secretly want to believe the exaggerated praise is true. The Bible says "Pride goes before destruction, a haughty spirit before a fall." (Proverbs 16:18) 

REQUIRE TRUE ACCOUNTABILITY: 

   Surround yourself with proven, long-term friends who have permission to tell you the hard truths. The Bible says "Wounds from a friend can be trusted, but an enemy multiplies kisses." (Proverbs 27:6)

TEST THE MOTIVES: 

   Do not instantly accept words at face value; observe whether the speaker's lifestyle and motives align with truth.  "Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God." (1 John 4:1) 

REDIRECT THE PRAISE: 

   Deflect exaggerated compliments by sharing the credit with your team or giving glory to God, which neutralizes the flatterer's power over your ego.  "The crucible for silver and the furnace for gold, but man is tested by the praise accorded him." (Proverbs 27:21) 

ADDRESS THE BEHAVIOR DIRECTLY: If the behavior continues, establish a clear boundary and refocus the conversation on objective facts.  : "Therefore, putting away lying, 'Let each one of you speak truth with his neighbor,' for we are members of one another." (Ephesians 4:25) 

  In our daily prayers we should seek a healthy appetite for God's Word and discernment of spirits.

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 overcome witchcraft manipulations .

+2348035536911   email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Listen to Good-Life with Rev Michael on internet radio download Radio Nigeria app and search for Port Harcourt Garden city radio 89.9 FM  by 5:45 pm 1+GMT on Tuesdays.

WHY FLATTERERS WILL NOT GO UNPUNISHED

 People shall remember to do you good because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good -Life Devotional: WHY FLATTERERS WILL NOT GO UNPUNISHED

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

   The Bible teaches that flatterers will face judgment because their deceit is an attack on truth and justice. Insincere praise is fundamentally a form of lying and self-worship. Because flatterers use others merely as stepping stones to feed their own greed and pride, they are actively corrupting God's standards of righteousness (Job 17:5).    Consequently, their deceit invariably results in a self-destructive downfall, as the foundation built on lies cannot stand.

BIBLICAL EXAMPLE: Absalom, David's Son

   The story of King David's son, Absalom (2 Samuel 15), perfectly illustrates the destructive nature of flattery. 

THE MANIPULATION: After a period of bitter estrangement from his father, Absalom decided to usurp the throne. Instead of relying on merit or patience, he stood at the city gates early each morning and flattered the people of Israel. 

THE EMPTY PROMISES: Absalom told every person seeking judgment that their cause was "good and right," implied that David’s government was neglecting them, and deceptively promised that he would execute perfect justice if he were made judge. He stole the hearts of the people through calculated charm, hugs, and feigned humility. 

THE TRAGIC CONSEQUENCES: This calculated political flattery and deceit caused a massive, bloody rebellion that forced King David to flee Jerusalem. However, flatterers and the foundation of deceit ultimately lead to ruin. The rebellion resulted in a devastating civil war, and Absalom was killed in battle while hanging by his hair in a tree (2 Samuel 18:9)—a tragic end that demonstrates how flattery leads to destruction. 

In our daily prayers we should seek a healthy appetite for God's Word and separation from a lying tongue .

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 overcome deception.

(234)8035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Listen to Good-Life with Rev Michael on internet radio download Radio Nigeria app and search for Port Harcourt Garden city radio 89.9 FM  by 5:45 pm 1+GMT on Tuesdays.

THE DESTRUCTIVE EFFECT OF FLATTERY

 

The conspiracy against you shall fail because of the anointing of God's favour upon you
Good-Life Devotional: THE DESTRUCTIVE EFFECT OF FLATTERY

"A flattering mouth worketh ruin." — Proverbs 26:28
    Flattery is a destructive tool of manipulation designed to stroke the ego, bypass discernment, and advance a hidden agenda. Unlike sincere encouragement, flattery is rooted in selfish ambition. It uses smooth words to gain influence, control decisions, or secure personal advantage. Scripture warns that "a flattering mouth worketh ruin" and that a flatterer spreads a net for another's feet (Proverbs 29:5).
THE DESTRUCTIVE EFFECTS OF FLATTERY
IT BLINDS AND DECEIVES. Flattery disguises selfish motives behind attractive words, causing people to believe lies instead of embracing truth. False teachers often exploit others with deceptive speech for personal gain (2 Peter 2:3).
IT BREEDS DIVISION. Flatterers isolate leaders from honest counsel and manipulate followers through emotional appeal. Such people create divisions and deceive the hearts of the unsuspecting (Romans 16:17-18).
IT REPLACES INTEGRITY WITH POLITICS. When leaders reward flattering voices instead of truthful ones, character is replaced by manipulation, and organizations, families, and churches eventually decline.
  God desires truth in our speech. Faithful correction may be painful, but it builds character, whereas flattering lips destroy lives and relationships. Every believer should pray for discernment to distinguish genuine encouragement from manipulative praise. Choose friends who tell you the truth in love rather than those who merely tell you what you want to hear.
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 overcome temptation. deliver me from deceptive words and from becoming a flatterer. Give me wisdom to value truth above praise and integrity above popularity, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Listen to Good-Life with Rev Michael on internet radio download Radio Nigeria app and search for Port Harcourt Garden city radio 89.9 FM  by 5:45 pm 1+GMT on Tuesdays.
+2348035536911 email  michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

THE IMPORTANCE OF A CREDIBLE ELECTORAL PROCESS

 

You shall prosper even in the  season of scarcity because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good -Life Devotional: THE IMPORTANCE OF A CREDIBLE ELECTORAL PROCESS

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
  "Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people." — Proverbs 14:34
    God is deeply concerned about justice, righteous leadership, and the welfare of nations. Scripture teaches that when righteous leaders govern, people flourish, but when wicked rulers prevail, suffering follows (Proverbs 29:2). Elections are one means by which a nation determines its leadership, making integrity in the electoral process a matter of justice before God.
   Nigeria occupies a strategic position in Africa because of its large population, abundant natural resources, and economic influence. A peaceful, prosperous, and well-governed Nigeria can contribute to regional stability and create opportunities for constructive international partnerships. Conversely, prolonged instability can create conditions that violent extremist groups seek to exploit. Christians should therefore pray that every effort to undermine justice, promote violence, or manipulate public institutions will fail.
   The Bible commands believers to "seek the peace of the city" (Jeremiah 29:7), to "do justice" (Micah 6:8), and to pray "for kings and all who are in authority" so that people may live "peaceful and quiet lives" (1 Timothy 2:1–2). God also declares, "By justice a king gives a country stability" (Proverbs 29:4).
   Let us pray for electoral processes marked by honesty, transparency, and accountability, for leaders who fear God, and for the protection of innocent lives. May the Lord frustrate every plan that promotes bloodshed, corruption, or oppression (Job 5:12), and raise leaders who pursue justice, peace, and the common good for Nigeria, Africa, and the nations.
  In our daily prayers we should seek a healthy appetite for God's Word and for good governance in Nigeria.
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 overcome oppression.
+2348035536911, email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com
Listen to Good-Life with Rev Michael on internet radio download Radio Nigeria app and search for Port Harcourt Garden city radio 89.9 FM  by 5:45 pm 1+GMT on Tuesdays.

WHAT WOULD A PROSPEROUS NIGERIA MEAN TO THE WESTERN NATIONS ( PART 2)

 

You are marked for an extraordinary promotion because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good-Life Devotional: WHAT WOULD A PROSPEROUS NIGERIA MEAN TO THE WESTERN NATIONS ( PART 2)

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
4. THE FLOW OF TALENT WOULD REVERSE
   Millions of skilled Nigerians currently contribute to the economies of Europe and North America. Prosperity would encourage many to build businesses, institutions, and industries at home.
"And they shall build the old wastes, they shall raise up the former desolations." (Isaiah 61:4)
5. NATIONS THAT EXPLOITED WEAKNESS WOULD NEED TO ADJUST
   Scripture repeatedly teaches that God opposes exploitation and vindicates those who have been disadvantaged.
"Woe unto him that increaseth that which is not his!" (Habakkuk 2:6)
"He raiseth up the poor out of the dust, and lifteth the needy out of the dunghill; That he may set him with princes." (Psalm 113:7-8)
  When God prospers a people, those who once benefited from their weakness must learn to relate to them as equals this is essential for global peace and an end to terrorism  for which trillions of dollars are spent on by the west .
   The greatest consequence of a prosperous Nigeria would not be the downfall of Western nations but the end of unequal relationships. Nigeria would possess greater economic independence, stronger bargaining power, and increased global influence.
"Righteousness exalteth a nation: but sin is a reproach to any people." (Proverbs 14:34)
   If prosperity is accompanied by righteousness, integrity, and wise stewardship, Nigeria can become not only a wealthy nation but also a force for justice, stability, and blessing among the nations of the earth.
In our daily prayers we should seek for a healthy appetite for God's word and an end to bad governance in Nigeria.
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 promote good governance.
+2348035536911, email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com
Listen to Good-Life with Rev Michael on internet radio download Radio Nigeria app and search for Port Harcourt Garden city radio 89.9 FM  by 5:45 pm 1+GMT on Tuesdays.

WHAT WOULD A PROSPEROUS NIGERIA MEAN FOR WESTERN NATIONS ( part 1)

 What was meant for your demotion shall facilitate your promotion because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good -Life Devotional: 

WHAT WOULD A PROSPEROUS NIGERIA MEAN FOR WESTERN NATIONS   ( part 1) 

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

   A prosperous Nigeria would fundamentally alter the balance of economic and political relationships with nations that have benefited from her weakness. Throughout Scripture and history, God often raises nations from dependency to dignity, enabling them to become lenders rather than borrowers and leaders rather than followers.

1. NIGERIA WOULD BECOME A LENDER RATHER THAN A BORROWER

   Economic prosperity would reduce dependence on foreign loans and aid. This would give Nigeria greater freedom to pursue policies that benefit her people rather than external interests.

 "For the LORD thy God blesseth thee, as he promised thee: and thou shalt lend unto many nations, but thou shalt not borrow." (Deuteronomy 15:6)

"The borrower is servant to the lender." (Proverbs 22:7)

When nations are no longer trapped by debt, they gain the ability to negotiate from a position of strength.

2. UNFAIR ECONOMIC ARRANGEMENTS WOULD BE CHALLENGED

   Many foreign entities have profited from exporting Nigeria's raw materials while selling back finished goods at higher prices. Prosperity would enable Nigeria to develop local industries, retain more value from her resources, and negotiate fairer agreements.

"Divers weights are an abomination unto the LORD; and a false balance is not good." (Proverbs 20:23)

 God's standard is justice and fairness in all dealings.

3. NIGERIA WOULD BECOME A BLESSING TO OTHER NATIONS

   A strong Nigeria would not merely seek its own advancement but could become a source of stability, investment, and assistance across Africa and beyond.

"And I will bless thee... and thou shalt be a blessing." (Genesis 12:2)

God blesses nations so they may become channels of blessing to others. A  stable Nigeria will reduce the burden of expenses by the west to stabilise Africa     

In our daily prayers we should seek a healthy appetite for God's word and for good governance in Nigeria.

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 promote righteous leadership.

+2348035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

Listen to Good-Life with Rev Michael on internet radio download Radio Nigeria app and search for Port Harcourt Garden city radio 89.9 FM  by 5:45 pm 1+GMT on Tuesdays.

WHEN LOYALTY TO GOD MUST COME FIRST

 

Extraordinary financial favours shall locate you because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good-Life Devotional:; WHEN LOYALTY TO GOD MUST COME FIRST
By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
Text: 1 Samuel 2:12–17; 3:1–21; 1 Samuel 31:1–6; Acts 5:29
   Scripture provides sobering examples of the danger of misplaced loyalty. Young Samuel served faithfully in the house of Eli, yet he never copied the corruption of Eli's sons, Hophni and Phinehas. Though they occupied positions of spiritual authority, they abused worship and dishonoured God. Samuel remained faithful because his allegiance was to the Lord, not to corrupt leadership.
     Jonathan also teaches a painful lesson. He loved David and knew God had chosen him as Israel's future king. Yet Jonathan remained tied to his father Saul, whose persistent rebellion against God ended in tragedy. Jonathan died alongside Saul on Mount Gilboa. While Jonathan's courage is admirable, the account reminds believers that loyalty to people must never override loyalty to God's revealed will.
    The apostles summarized this principle perfectly: "We must obey God rather than men" (Acts 5:29). Respect for authority is biblical, but obedience has limits. Whenever human instructions contradict God's Word, believers must choose obedience to God.
    Healthy spiritual authority always points people toward Christ, never toward unhealthy dependence on a human leader. The safest believer is one whose conscience is captive to God's Word and whose loyalty belongs first to the Lord.
  In our daily prayers we should seek a healthy appetite for God's word and passion for godly authority.
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 preach righteousness, Father help me love You above every relationship and every leader. Give me discernment to recognize truth and courage to obey You regardless of the cost. Keep my heart faithful to Christ alone, in Jesus' name. Amen.
Listen to Good-Life with Rev Michael on internet radio download Radio Nigeria app and search for Port Harcourt Garden city radio 89.9 FM  by 5:45 pm 1+GMT on Tuesdays.