Port Harcourt, Nigeria – May 11, 2025
The General Overseer of Solemn Faith International Church, Pastor Mathew Eleojoh James, has emphasized that favour is not a random occurrence but a divine reward reserved for those actively serving in God’s kingdom.
He made this declaration during today’s Sunday service held at the church headquarters located at Road 21, Plot 14, Federal Housing Estate, Woji, Port Harcourt.
Delivering the second part of his teaching titled “Notable Favour Pt. 2”, Pastor Mathew drew scriptural references from Esther 2:15 and Luke 1:2, explaining that notable favour is a divine force—a unique aura that enables individuals to be divinely accepted regardless of their age, background, or qualifications. According to him, this kind of favour was evident in the lives of biblical figures like Esther and Mary, who were divinely chosen and elevated against natural odds.
He went on to explain the critical importance of notable favour in fulfilling destiny and actualizing purpose. “If destiny must be fulfilled, favour must be released,” Pastor Mathew declared, underscoring that divine favour brings with it timely opportunities, supernatural help from both God and man, and undeniable recognition that overrides human limitations.
The preacher noted that one of the primary gateways to accessing such favour is through kingdom stewardship.
Citing Matthew 6:33 and 1 Corinthians 4:2, he said that consistent and faithful service in God’s vineyard is what qualifies individuals for divine rewards.
He pointed out that God is not unjust to forget the labour of those who serve Him, and that favour is often God’s way of rewarding that labour.
Pastor Mathew highlighted four kinds of service that unlock notable favour: reasonable or acceptable service, fervent and diligent service, faithful service, and excited or joyful service.
He warned against what he called “unreasonable service,” saying, “Unreasonable men render unreasonable service, while reasonable men render reasonable service,” referencing 2 Thessalonians 3:2.
Throughout the message, the pastor stressed that divine favour is tied to divine announcement. “When you are announced by God, you cannot be denied by men,” he affirmed. He further noted that the delay in stepping into destiny, which he referred to as “late arrival,” is a spiritual spell that must be broken for favour to be accessed and maximized.
The atmosphere in the church was spiritually charged as members, particularly the youth, who were specially recognized during the service for Youth Day celebrations, listened attentively and responded with heartfelt amens and applause.
Pastor Mathew concluded the message by urging believers to embrace kingdom service with enthusiasm, integrity, and purpose, as favour is not merely an act of divine kindness, but a reward stored up for faithful stewards.
