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. 

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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

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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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

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

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   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. 

 

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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. 

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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