GOD IS LEAST INTERESTED IN CHURCH CONVENTIONS AND SACRIFICES (PART 1)

 You shall rise again despite your challenges because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.

Good -Life Devotional:  GOD IS LEAST INTERESTED IN CHURCH CONVENTIONS AND SACRIFICES (PART 1)

  -God Desires Righteousness Above Religious Activity-

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

   Many people assume that organizing church conventions, seminars, conferences, vigils, and presenting sacrifices automatically pleases God. Religious activity, however, is not necessarily evidence of spiritual transformation. In Isaiah 1, God spoke strongly against a people who continued their religious practices while living in rebellion. He lamented, “Ah, sinful nation, a people laden with iniquity” (Isaiah 1:4). Their worship continued, but their society was spiritually sick.

Isaiah 1:7 says, “Your country is desolate, your cities are burned with fire.” The lesson is sobering: religious ceremonies cannot compensate for national and personal unrighteousness. A nation may have churches everywhere and yet suffer corruption, insecurity, violence, poverty, and injustice if the people refuse to embrace God's righteous standards.

   Jesus Christ began His public ministry with a direct message: “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 4:17). Repentance means turning away from sin and returning to God. Unfortunately, the message of repentance is sometimes replaced with messages that merely stimulate covetousness. People are encouraged to pursue financial miracles while ignoring holiness, integrity, justice, and obedience.

But 2 Peter 2:5 describes Noah as “a preacher of righteousness.” Noah's generation perished because they rejected God's righteous standard. This reveals an important truth: God is not impressed by outward religion when the heart remains unrepentant.

   The church must never substitute conventions for conversion, sacrifices for obedience, or offerings for righteousness. God desires transformed lives. Let us hunger for His Word and boldly proclaim the message that Jesus preached: Repent and return to God.

Scripture Meditation: Isaiah 1:4–7; Matthew 4:17; 2 Peter 2:5.

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.

+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.

CAST YOUR BURDEN (Part 2) COMFORTED TO COMFORT OTHERS

 You shall not be put to shame for your painful losses , an extraordinary recovery and comfort is coming to you because of the anointing of God's favour upon you. 

The Good Life Devotional : CAST YOUR BURDEN (Part 2) 

COMFORTED TO COMFORT OTHERS

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi 

Scripture Reading: 2 Corinthians 1:3–10

   The Christian life does not mean we will never suffer. Even the Apostle Paul experienced intense trials. He wrote that he and his companions were “burdened beyond measure, above strength,” so much that they even despaired of life (2 Corinthians 1:8). Yet their suffering did not prove that God had abandoned them. Rather, it taught them to depend upon God, “who raises the dead” (verse 9).

      Paul calls God “the Father of mercies and God of all comfort” (2 Corinthians 1:3). This reveals a beautiful truth: God comforts us in our troubles so that we may comfort others who are facing similar afflictions. Sometimes the pain you survive becomes the testimony that strengthens someone else.

   Joseph suffered betrayal before becoming a deliverer. David experienced persecution before becoming king. Paul endured imprisonment, rejection, beatings, and hardship, yet his trials produced encouragement for generations. Your present affliction may be preparing you to become a source of strength to others.

    The Bible does not deny suffering, but it repeatedly declares God's faithfulness in the midst of it. “We are hard-pressed on every side, yet not crushed” (2 Corinthians 4:8). “Though he fall, he shall not be utterly cast down: for the Lord upholds him” (Psalm 37:24).

Therefore, do not waste your suffering by allowing bitterness to take root. Cast your burden upon the Lord. Receive His comfort. Then allow your testimony to become encouragement to someone else.

   Remember: many may be the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord is still the Deliverer. Your burden may be heavy, but your God is greater. The battle may be intense, but comfort, deliverance, and restoration are available in Christ.

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 grief. 

Father of mercies, comfort me in every trial and use my testimony to strengthen others. I trust You to deliver me and sustain me. Amen.

+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.

CAST YOUR BURDEN ( Part 1)

Your emotional burdens and pains  are being lifted off your shoulders because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good -Life Devotional:
CAST YOUR BURDEN ( Part 1)
By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
The God Who Delivers Our Soul
Scripture Reading: Psalm 55:18, 22; 2 Corinthians 1:3–10
“He has redeemed my soul in peace from the battle that was against me...” — Psalm 55:18
   Life is filled with battles that are sometimes invisible to others. There are battles of fear, anxiety, disappointment, grief, financial pressure, betrayal, and spiritual conflict. A person may smile publicly while carrying a heavy battle within the soul. David understood this experience. Yet he declared, “He has redeemed my soul in peace from the battle that was against me” (Psalm 55:18).
   God does not merely see the outward battle; He sees the conflict within us. He knows the sleepless nights, silent tears, unanswered questions, and burdens we cannot explain to anyone. Therefore, Psalm 55:22 gives us a divine invitation: “Cast your burden on the Lord, and He shall sustain you.” God never intended us to carry alone what only His grace can sustain.
   The righteous are not promised a life without trouble. Scripture says, “Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all” (Psalm 34:19). Jesus also said, “In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33).
   Casting your burden means transferring the weight from your shoulders to God's hands. It means praying instead of panicking, trusting instead of surrendering to despair. “Cast all your care upon Him, for He cares for you” (1 Peter 5:7).
  Today, do not allow the battle within you to destroy your peace. Bring it to Jesus. The One who redeemed David's soul is still able to deliver yours.
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 persevere. Lord, I cast every burden upon You today. Deliver my soul from every battle within me and fill me with Your peace. Amen.
+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 ARE YOU CAST DOWN, O MY SOUL?

 

The anointing of God's favour is healing you of every heartbreak and pain now.
Good -Life Devotional: WHY ARE YOU CAST DOWN, O MY SOUL?

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
Scripture Reading: Psalm 42:5–11
   The psalmist repeatedly asks, “Why are you cast down, O my soul? And why are you disquieted within me? Hope in God.” This passage is a powerful apologetic against the claim that faith in God means believers never experience fear, depression, discouragement, or emotional pain.    The Bible does not hide human suffering; rather, it reveals how faith responds to it.
   The writer of Psalm 42 felt overwhelmed. His tears had become his food, and enemies questioned him, saying, “Where is your God?” Yet his emotional condition did not become evidence that God had abandoned him. He spoke to his own soul and redirected his hope toward God. Faith is not pretending that pain does not exist; faith is refusing to let pain have the final word.
   Notice the psalmist's declaration: “Hope in God, for I shall yet praise Him.” His circumstances had not yet changed, but his confidence was anchored in the character of God. This is the heart of biblical apologetics: Christianity does not deny the reality of suffering; it explains that suffering exists in a fallen world while God remains present, purposeful, and faithful.
   When doubts arise and your heart becomes troubled, remember God's past faithfulness. David said, “I would have lost heart, unless I had believed that I would see the goodness of the Lord” (Psalm 27:13). Jesus also promised, “I will never leave you nor forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5).
   Speak to your soul today: Hope in God. Your present sorrow is not the end of your story. You shall yet praise Him!
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 heal the broken hearted .
+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.

GOD GIVES US THE VICTORY (Part 2)

 

Your tears of sorrow shall be turned into tears of joy because of the consolation of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good -Life Devotional:  GOD GIVES US THE VICTORY (Part 2)

By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
-Overcoming The Giants Before Us-
“For everyone born of God is victorious and overcomes the world; and this is the victory that has conquered and overcome the world—our [continuing, persistent] faith [in Jesus the Son of God].” — 1 John 5:4
   David's victory over Goliath demonstrates that God gives victory to those who trust Him rather than their natural abilities. Israel's army saw a giant; David saw a defeated enemy standing against the Almighty God. Goliath trusted his size, weapons, and experience, but David declared, “The battle is the Lord’s, and He will give you into our hands” (1 Samuel 17:47).
    David understood that victory does not depend upon human strength. He had no sword, armour, or military advantage. Yet he possessed faith in the living God. With a sling and a stone, David defeated the champion of the Philistines because the power behind David was greater than the giant before him.
    This is the principle of 1 John 5:4: “This is the victory that has overcome the world—our faith.” Faith connects us to God's ability. It enables us to face circumstances without being controlled by them. “Not by might nor by power, but by My Spirit,” says the Lord (Zechariah 4:6).
    Whatever your Goliath may be—fear, opposition, lack, persecution, or an impossible situation—remember that God has not called you to face it alone. “No weapon that is formed against you will succeed” (Isaiah 54:17), and “In all these things we overwhelmingly conquer through Him who loved us” (Romans 8:37).
   Do not measure your problem against your strength. Measure it against the greatness of God. Stand in faith, speak His Word, and refuse to surrender.
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 the fear of failure .
Lord Jesus, thank You for making me an overcomer. Strengthen my faith and give me courage to face every giant, knowing that the victory belongs to You. Amen.
+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

GOD GIVES US THE VICTORY. ( Part 1) :

 

The burden of sickness and disease is broken because of the anointing of God's favour upon you.
Good -Life Devotional: GOD GIVES US THE VICTORY. ( Part 1) :

-Victory Through Faith in God-
By Rev Michael Benson Ajayi
  “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory [as conquerors] through our Lord Jesus Christ.” — 1 Corinthians 15:57
   The Christian life is not a promise of a life without battles; it is the assurance that God gives His people victory in the midst of their battles. The greatest victory Christ secured was victory over sin, death, and the grave. Paul declares, “But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Corinthians 15:57). Therefore, believers do not fight merely hoping to win; through Christ, we stand from the position of His accomplished victory.
   King Jehoshaphat experienced this truth when Judah faced a terrifying alliance of enemies. Humanly speaking, the situation was impossible. But Jehoshaphat prayed, fasted, and acknowledged, “We have no power… nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are on You” (2 Chronicles 20:12). God answered: “The battle is not yours but God’s” (2 Chronicles 20:15).
   Their victory did not come through military strength. As they obeyed God and began to praise Him, confusion entered the enemy camp, and the opposing armies destroyed one another (2 Chronicles 20:22–23). Judah simply witnessed the salvation of the Lord.
   Faith does not deny the reality of opposition; faith declares the greater reality of God's power. “If God is for us, who can be successful against us?” (Romans 8:31). Whatever battle confronts you today, do not surrender to fear. Pray, believe, obey, and keep your eyes upon the 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 Spirit and power to stand firm against the enemy. Father, thank You for giving me victory through Jesus Christ. Teach me to trust You in every battle and to stand firm in faith. Amen.
+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.

Sunday sermon:Walking in God’s Blessings: Freedom from Curses Through Christ Aug 23, 2026

 Walking in God’s Blessings: Freedom from Curses Through Christ

Aug 23, 2026

Summary

Blessing or Curse: The Choice Is Yours

Big Idea: Obedience, honesty, and faith in Christ open the flood-gates of God’s blessing; theft, lies, and rejecting His Word unleash a curse that still operates over individuals, homes, and nations.

Overview

The pastor contrasts the Bible’s picture of blessing and curse with Nigeria’s present struggles. From the flying scroll of Zechariah to the long list in Deuteronomy, Scripture shows that God’s favour or judgment “goes forth over the face of the whole earth,” including Nigeria. Houses, businesses—even whole governments—can come under a curse when people steal, lie, or swear falsely. Yet Christ has already carried every curse on the cross; those who walk in righteousness, speak blessings, practise generous giving, and revere the Lord in Holy Communion can live free, prosperous, and protected lives. The message ends with a call for personal integrity, family holiness, and civic responsibility—refusing to vote for or partner with thieves.

Key Scripture

• Deuteronomy 28 — The foundation of the whole message: obedience brings overflowing blessing; disobedience brings devastating curse.

• Zechariah 5 — Pivotal warning: a flying scroll curses thieves and liars, entering and destroying their houses.

• Galatians 3:13 — The theological anchor: Christ redeemed believers from the curse by becoming a curse for us.

• Acts 5 — New-Testament example: Ananias and Sapphira prove that lying still attracts instant judgment.

Main Points

1. A universal law: the blessing and the curse still “go forth over the whole earth.”

• Zechariah’s scroll includes Nigeria, Ghana—everywhere.

• Theft, perjury, and broken oaths attract divine judgment; contentment keeps you safe.

• Some houses become prayer-proof because the owners stole to build them.

2. What blessing looks like (Deuteronomy 28:1-14).

• Influence: “set thee on high above all nations.”

• Fruitfulness in city and field, family and business.

• A “blessed storehouse” (bank account) — speak daily: “I bless my bank account with more credits than debits.”

• Enemies scatter seven ways.

• Practical counsel: speak life over food, clothes, workplace, and family; never speak lack.

3. What curse looks like (Deuteronomy 28:15-68) and how it is triggered today.

• Vexation, sickness, failure, family decay.

• Nigeria’s corruption—pastors and politicians stealing public funds—illustrates corporate curse.

• Fake drugs, fake pastors, and “Yahoo” fraud all carry this judgment.

• Family impact: lying parents raise corrupt children; pursuit of success can destroy marriages.

4. Christ’s redemption is conditional—turn away and the curse returns.

• Galatians 3:13 declares freedom, but willful disobedience re-opens the door.

• Ananias & Sapphira show New-Testament curses are real.

• Holy Communion taken irreverently can bring weakness or death (1 Corinthians 11).

• A suggested national cure: make leaders take communion with a vow—thieves would fall sick and die, ending corruption.

5. Living in blessing: integrity, family holiness, generous giving, and civic action.

• Investigate families before marriage; avoid cursed alliances.

• Discipline children strictly against lying.

• Give tithes and offerings to support gospel work and northern missions.

• In elections, refuse to vote for thieves; guard the ballot box and post results publicly.

Application

The call: Choose righteousness—accept Christ’s redemption, walk in integrity, and actively reject every form of theft and deceit.

Head — Understand that blessings and curses are covenant realities still at work; Christ’s cross is the only escape.

Heart — Cultivate holy fear and deep love for God that makes lying or stealing unthinkable.

Hands

• Speak blessing daily over your “storehouse” (finances, home, work).

• Practise strict honesty: return all change, refuse “Yahoo” money, expose corruption.

• Receive Holy Communion reverently and use it as a weapon against hidden sin in your home.

Reflection Questions

• Where do you see traces of Deuteronomy 28’s blessings or curses in your own family?

• How have your words recently shaped your “storehouse”—for better or worse?

• Are there any relationships, jobs, or churches that bring you under another person’s curse?

• What practical steps can you take this week to model integrity for your children or younger believers?

• How will you use your vote and voice to oppose theft and promote righteousness in the nation?

Prayer

Righteous Father, You bless the obedient and oppose the thief and the liar. Thank You that Jesus became a curse for us. Today we choose truth, justice, and generosity. Cleanse our hearts, guard our lips, and fill our homes with Your favour. Make us lights of integrity in our nation, that Nigeria may know Your blessing and not Your wrath. In Jesus’ name, Amen.