SUBMISSION PROTECTS THE BELIEVER

 

You shall continue to make remarkable progress regardless of the situation because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good -Life Devotional; SUBMISSION PROTECTS THE BELIEVER

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
Text: "But first gave their own selves to the Lord, and unto us by the will of God." (2 Corinthians 8:5)
   The opposite of self-will is submission. The churches of Macedonia understood this principle. Before they gave their offerings, they first gave themselves to the Lord and to apostolic authority (2 Corinthians 8:5). True Christianity involves submission to God and respect for the spiritual authorities He establishes.
   Peter describes self-willed people as those who despise authority (2 Peter 2:10). Such individuals often resist correction, reject accountability, and exalt personal opinions above biblical instruction. This rebellious spirit is dangerous because Satan thrives where God-ordained authority is rejected.
    Scripture teaches believers to support those who minister God's Word. "Let him that is taught in the word communicate unto him that teacheth in all good things" (Galatians 6:6). Paul also instructed regular giving for the work of God (1 Corinthians 16:1-2). Under the Law, Moses taught that tithing helped Israel learn the fear of the Lord (Deuteronomy 14:23). Giving is not merely financial; it reflects a heart that acknowledges God's authority and provision.
   When Satan gains control of a person's heart, the fruit becomes evident. Paul describes such people as lovers of self, lovers of money, proud, disobedient, unthankful, unholy, and ever learning but never coming to the knowledge of the truth (2 Timothy 3:1-7). Rebellion eventually produces spiritual blindness.
    James 4:7 gives the remedy: "Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you." Notice that resistance to Satan begins with submission to God. A believer who walks in humility, honors God's Word, respects spiritual authority, and maintains a teachable spirit places himself under divine protection.
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 pride . Father, grant me a submissive heart. Help me honor Your authority, receive godly correction, and walk in obedience so that Satan gains no advantage over my life. In Jesus' name, Amen.
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SATAN HAS EASY ACCESS TO THE SELF-WILLED

 Extraordinary financial help shall locate you because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good -Life Devotional: SATAN HAS EASY ACCESS TO THE SELF-WILLED

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

Text: "And that they may recover themselves out of the snare of the devil, who are taken captive by him at his will." (2 Timothy 2:26)

  One of the greatest spiritual dangers in the Christian life is self-will. A self-willed person insists on having his or her own way regardless of God's instructions or godly counsel.    Scripture reveals that such people become easy targets for Satan. Paul warns that some are "taken captive by him at his will" (2 Timothy 2:26). The Greek word for "captive" pictures a prisoner of war carried away by an enemy.

    Eve is the first biblical example. Instead of remaining submissive to God's command, she entertained Satan's suggestions and was deceived (Genesis 3:1-6). Samson became self-willed concerning his lusts. Despite repeated warnings, he pursued sinful relationships until he lost his strength, sight, and liberty (Judges 16:20-21).

    King Saul likewise abandoned obedience to God and eventually sought guidance from the witch of Endor (1 Samuel 28:7). He was tormented by an evil spirit ( 1Samuel 16:14-15)      

   Judas Iscariot followed his own covetous desires, negotiating with Christ's enemies for money (Matthew 26:14-16). Later, Satan entered into him (John 13:26-27).

    Self-will opens doors to demonic influence because it rejects God's authority. Proverbs 14:12 warns, "There is a way which seemeth right unto a man, but the end thereof are the ways of death." Satan rarely captures people suddenly; he first cultivates independence from God.

    The safest place for any believer is complete surrender to Christ. Every area reserved for self-rule becomes a potential foothold for the enemy (Ephesians 4:27). Humility, obedience, and submission to God's Word are powerful safeguards against Satan's traps whose mission is to kill, steal and destroy (John 10:10) 

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 the Holy Ghost and power for service .

Lord, deliver me from self-will and teach me to delight in Your will above my own. Amen.

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THE LORD GRANTS THE DESIRES OF THE SELFWILLED BUT SENDS LEANNESS (PART 2)

 You shall recover sevenfold all that was lost because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good -Life Devotional: 

THE LORD GRANTS THE DESIRES OF THE SELFWILLED BUT SENDS LEANNESS (PART 2)

Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

Text: Psalm 106:13-15

   One of the greatest dangers facing the Church is the temptation to measure success by outward results rather than by obedience to God's will. Scripture warns that self-will may produce visible success while concealing spiritual poverty. Africa especially Nigeria boasts of the richest preachers and largest  church buildings and yet struggles with deep moral bankruptcy, poverty, political instability and insecurity .

    Peter spoke of false teachers who had "an heart they have exercised with covetous practices; cursed children" (2 Peter 2:14). These individuals appeared prosperous, yet God described them as cursed. Their ministries were driven by greed rather than submission to the Holy Spirit.

    Jesus gave an even more sobering warning in Matthew 7:21-23. Many would point to their prophecies, miracles, and mighty works on the Day of Judgment, yet Christ would declare, "I never knew you." Their activities were impressive, but they lacked the approval that comes from walking in God's will.

    To avoid this trap, believers must cultivate a life of fellowship with the Holy Spirit. In Acts 13:2, the prophets and teachers at Antioch ministered to the Lord and fasted before receiving divine direction. They did not rush ahead with personal ambitions.    Likewise, Jude 1:20-21 instructs us to build ourselves up in faith, pray in the Holy Spirit, and keep ourselves in the love of God.

   Paul further exhorts believers: "Set your affection on things above, not on things on the earth" (Colossians 3:2). Eternal values must govern earthly pursuits. God's presence is worth more than worldly success.

   May we never exchange divine approval for human applause. Better to walk slowly in God's perfect will than to run swiftly in self-will and inherit spiritual leanness. "Seek ye first the kingdom of God" (Matthew 6:33).

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 lord and saviour and receive the Holy Spirit and Power to overcome pride . 

+2348035536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

THE LORD GRANTS THE DESIRES OF THE SELFWILLED BUT SENDS LEANNESS (PART 1)

 Preparation is been made for your elevation because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good -Life Devotional: 

THE LORD GRANTS THE DESIRES OF THE SELFWILLED BUT SENDS LEANNESS (PART 1)

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

Text: Psalm 106:13-15

Psalm 106 recounts one of Israel's greatest spiritual tragedies. Though they witnessed God's mighty works in Egypt and at the Red Sea, they quickly forgot His counsel and lusted after their own desires. The Scripture says, "And He gave them their request; but sent leanness into their soul" (Psalm 106:15).

  The word "leanness" is translated from the Hebrew word 'razon:, which means thinness, wasting away, spiritual barrenness, or inward emptiness. God granted their request, yet withheld the spiritual nourishment that comes from His perfect will. They received what they wanted but lost what they needed most.

   This teaches that not every answered prayer is a sign of God's approval. Sometimes God permits people to have their own way so they can discover the emptiness of self-will. The greatest blessing is not getting what we desire but becoming what God desires.

   The prosperity of the selfwilled can be deceptive. Asaph admitted, "I was envious at the foolish, when I saw the prosperity of the wicked" (Psalm 73:3). Yet later he realized that their apparent success was temporary and their end was destruction (Psalm 73:17-19).

   Many believers become discouraged when they see rebellious people prospering while those seeking God face trials. However, God's evaluation is eternal, not temporary. Riches, popularity, and influence are poor substitutes for His presence.

   Today, ask yourself: Am I pursuing God's counsel or merely seeking God's permission for my own plans? A full bank account and an empty soul is a tragic exchange. Seek His will above every earthly gain.

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 pride and arrogance.

+2348035636911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

THE DANGER OF BEING A SELF-WILLED CHRISTIAN

 

The plans of the enemy shall backfire because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good -Life Devotional:

The plans of the enemy shall backfire because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good -Life Devotional:
THE DANGER OF BEING A SELF-WILLED CHRISTIAN

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
Text: Titus 1:7; Leviticus 10:1-2; 1 Samuel 13:9-11
   The word "self-willed" in Titus 1:7 comes from the Greek word authadēs (αὐθάδης), meaning self-pleasing, arrogant, stubbornly determined to have one's own way, regardless of God's will or the counsel of others. A self-willed person exalts his own opinions above divine instruction and godly authority.
   The danger of self-will is clearly illustrated in the lives of Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron. Though they were priests, they offered strange fire before the Lord, which God had not commanded (Leviticus 10:1-2). Their actions showed disregard for God's order and for the spiritual leadership of their father, Aaron. As a result, divine judgment fell upon them. Likewise, many Christians today disregard biblical instruction, reject spiritual oversight, and offer to God service, worship, or sacrifices that are not motivated by obedience and reverence (Malachi 1:8; Hebrews 12:28-29).
    King Saul provides another warning. Instead of waiting for Samuel as instructed, he presumed to offer the sacrifice himself (1 Samuel 13:9-11). His self-will cost him the kingdom. What appeared to be a small act of impatience was actually rebellion against God's appointed order. Scripture declares that "rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft" (1 Samuel 15:23).
    Titus 1:7 reveals the character of the self-willed believer: he is often soon angry, proud, greedy for dishonest gain, given to alcohol, and quarrelsome. According to 2 Peter 2:10, such individuals are presumptuous and are not afraid to speak evil of God's servants. Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs believers to trust in the Lord rather than their own understanding.
    A self-willed Christian may appear confident, but he walks in spiritual danger. True discipleship requires humility, submission to God's Word, respect for godly authority, and a willingness to say, like Christ, "Not my will, but Yours, be done" (Luke 22:42).
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 pride . Lord, deliver me from self-will and pride. Give me a humble heart that submits to Your Word and walks in obedience to Your perfect will. Amen.

+2348036536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com DANGER OF BEING A SELF-WILLED CHRISTIAN
By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
Text: Titus 1:7; Leviticus 10:1-2; 1 Samuel 13:9-11
   The word "self-willed" in Titus 1:7 comes from the Greek word authadēs (αὐθάδης), meaning self-pleasing, arrogant, stubbornly determined to have one's own way, regardless of God's will or the counsel of others. A self-willed person exalts his own opinions above divine instruction and godly authority.
   The danger of self-will is clearly illustrated in the lives of Nadab and Abihu, the sons of Aaron. Though they were priests, they offered strange fire before the Lord, which God had not commanded (Leviticus 10:1-2). Their actions showed disregard for God's order and for the spiritual leadership of their father, Aaron. As a result, divine judgment fell upon them. Likewise, many Christians today disregard biblical instruction, reject spiritual oversight, and offer to God service, worship, or sacrifices that are not motivated by obedience and reverence (Malachi 1:8; Hebrews 12:28-29).
    King Saul provides another warning. Instead of waiting for Samuel as instructed, he presumed to offer the sacrifice himself (1 Samuel 13:9-11). His self-will cost him the kingdom. What appeared to be a small act of impatience was actually rebellion against God's appointed order. Scripture declares that "rebellion is as the sin of witchcraft" (1 Samuel 15:23).
    Titus 1:7 reveals the character of the self-willed believer: he is often soon angry, proud, greedy for dishonest gain, given to alcohol, and quarrelsome. According to 2 Peter 2:10, such individuals are presumptuous and are not afraid to speak evil of God's servants. Proverbs 3:5-6 instructs believers to trust in the Lord rather than their own understanding.
    A self-willed Christian may appear confident, but he walks in spiritual danger. True discipleship requires humility, submission to God's Word, respect for godly authority, and a willingness to say, like Christ, "Not my will, but Yours, be done" (Luke 22:42).
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 pride . Lord, deliver me from self-will and pride. Give me a humble heart that submits to Your Word and walks in obedience to Your perfect will. Amen.
+2348036536911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com

THE PERFECT LAW OF LIBERTY

 The chains of the fear of poverty is demolished because of the anointing of God's favour upon you now .

Good -Life Devotional: THE PERFECT LAW OF LIBERTY

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

Text: James 1:25; Galatians 5:1,13

    The Bible describes God's Word as "the perfect law of liberty" (James 1:25). This means that genuine freedom is found not in rejecting God's commands but in obeying them. The person who looks into God's Word and continues therein experiences the blessings of true liberty.

    Peter warns that those who abuse liberty often become "presumptuous" and "selfwilled" (2 Peter 2:10). They despise authority, reject correction, and exalt their own opinions above Scripture. Pride gradually corrupts their hearts until they become spiritually blind. Peter further describes them as irrational and corrupt, moving toward destruction because they refuse the truth (2 Peter 2:12).

    Paul therefore exhorts believers: "Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free" (Galatians 5:1). Yet in the same chapter he warns, "Use not liberty for an occasion to the flesh" (Galatians 5:13). Christian liberty is never a license to sin. It is the power to live a life pleasing to God through the Holy Spirit.

    The believer who walks in liberty remains accountable, submissive to God's Word, faithful in fellowship, and responsive to godly counsel. He is not a forgetful hearer but a doer of the Word (James 1:25). Such a person enjoys spiritual growth, protection, and fruitfulness.

    Let us therefore reject every message that turns grace into permissiveness. The liberty of Christ leads to holiness, obedience, humility, and eternal life. Any liberty that encourages rebellion, arrogance, and sin is a counterfeit that ultimately leads to bondage and destruction.

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 live in holiness. Lord Jesus, keep me from abusing the liberty You purchased with Your blood. Help me to remain obedient, humble, and accountable. May I continue in the perfect law of liberty and bring glory to Your name, Amen.

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THE FALSE PROMISE OF LIBERTY

 You are delivered from the snare of the deceiver because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good -Life Devotional: 

THE FALSE PROMISE OF LIBERTY

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

Text: 2 Peter 2:18-19

   The death and resurrection of Jesus Christ secured true liberty for believers. Through Christ, we are delivered from the condemnation of sin, the dominion of Satan, and the bondage of the law. The Apostle Paul warned about false brethren who secretly sought to bring believers back into bondage, declaring that Christian liberty must be protected (Galatians 2:4).

    However, throughout history, false teachers have distorted the doctrine of liberty. Peter describes them as those who "speak great swelling words of vanity" and "promise them liberty, while they themselves are the servants of corruption" (2 Peter 2:18-19). They present liberty as independence from spiritual authority, accountability, discipline, and obedience to God's Word.

    Such teachings appeal to the flesh because they permit people to live according to their own desires while claiming the blessings of Christ. Instead of submitting to godly leadership, they become self-directed and unteachable. Instead of growing in holiness, they misuse grace as a cloak for sinful living.

    Biblical liberty is not freedom to do whatever we desire; it is freedom to obey God without the bondage of sin. Christ sets us free so that we may become servants of righteousness (Romans 6:18). The believer who rejects correction and accountability under the pretense of liberty is not walking in freedom but is gradually entering another form of bondage.

    The liberty Christ purchased is holy liberty, not fleshly independence. True freedom always produces greater obedience to God and greater love for His people.

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 sin.  Father, help me to understand and walk in the true liberty purchased by Jesus Christ. Deliver me from every deceptive doctrine that promotes independence from Your will. Grant me a humble and teachable spirit, in Jesus' name. Amen.

+2348035537911 email michaelbensonajayi@gmail.com 

Join us on Tuesdays on Garden City Radio FM 89.9 port Harcourt by 5:45 pm .