General Superintendent of Deeper Life Bible Church, Pastor William Kumuyi, has cautioned members against agitating over who will succeed him, insisting that the decision rests with God alone.

Speaking during a recent Bible study programme, the 83-year-old cleric said he would not be pressured into stepping aside, warning that such moves undermine his mission.

Referring to comments made by a young preacher who said “there is no leadership without a successor,” Kumuyi said it was inappropriate to push the issue while he is still actively leading the church.

“God will give a successor at His own time,” he said. “I reject any attempt by members to control me. I won’t even take that from my wife because I am the head of the home.”

Kumuyi urged members to appreciate his continued strength and commitment to preaching the gospel, adding that biblical examples show leadership changes happen according to divine will.

“When the time comes, God will choose a man after His own heart. Don’t try to drive me away, even though I know you cannot,” he said.

“Victory Is Not By Strength Alone”: Pastor Adeboye Reveals His Boxing Past And Shares Timeless Life Lessons

In an unexpected and inspiring revelation, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG), Pastor E.A. Adeboye, has shared a rare story from his youth — one that links his time as a boxer in the 1960s to powerful lessons on hard work, discipline, and divine involvement in life’s journey.

Speaking during the August Thanksgiving Service, themed “The Winning Team,” Pastor Adeboye captivated thousands of worshippers as he recalled the intensity of his early training days and how a single comment from his coach became a guiding principle for the rest of his life.

 “We asked our coach why he was pushing us so hard, even though we weren’t joining the army,” he recounted. “He replied, ‘What’s wrong with you, stupid boys? The strength I’m building in you — will you return it to me when you leave?’ That question has stayed with me ever since.”

According to Pastor Adeboye, that tough-love moment taught him that greatness doesn’t come from comfort.

“A coach isn’t your friend,” he said. “Friends may accept you the way you are, but a coach sees your potential and refuses to let you stay average.”

Hard Work Isn’t Enough Without God

Quoting Proverbs 22:29, Pastor Adeboye emphasised the importance of diligence: “Seest thou a man diligent in his business? He shall stand before kings.” However, he was quick to add that hard work alone is not enough.

Referencing Ecclesiastes 9:11 and Romans 9:15, he explained that success in life is not always about being the smartest or fastest — it ultimately depends on God’s mercy and favour.

 “The person who wins in life isn’t always the brightest. Whether you rise or fall depends on God. Victory is 100% determined by His will,” he said.

Boxing Lessons for Life

Reflecting on his boxing days, Pastor Adeboye credited the discipline, endurance, and mental strength he developed during that period with helping him navigate decades of ministry and leadership challenges. He encouraged believers to embrace similar values in their own lives.

“If you do what the average person does, you’ll remain average,” he warned. “But if you go the extra mile and let God lead you, your victory is guaranteed.”

A Call to Join the Winning Team

The ongoing August Thanksgiving Service, held from August 4 to 10 at Redemption City, continues to draw multitudes of worshippers both physically and online, all seeking divine direction and assurance that with God, they belong to “The Winning Team.”

Pastor Adeboye’s message serves as a timely reminder: in a world obsessed with shortcuts, lasting success still comes from God.

The FCT Baptist Girls Auxiliary (GA), under the auspices of the Baptist Women’s Missionary Union (WMU), will kick off its 2025 Prayer Retreat and Annual Conference Camp—along with its Centenary Celebration and Recognition/Coronation Service—this Monday.

The three-day program, themed “Help Through Waiting and Watching,” will take place at Nasara Baptist Church in Karu, Abuja. This event aims to foster the spiritual growth of young girls within the FCT Baptist Conference.

Key speakers, including the Camp Pastor, WMU President and Director, and the GA Director from the FCT Baptist Conference, are expected to attend.

In a message to participants, Reverend Deji Oyelami, the Minister in charge of First Baptist Church, Gwagwalada, Abuja, encouraged the members of the Girls Auxiliary to pay close attention to the lessons presented during the three-day program. He emphasised that this would help them become better home builders and positive examples in society.

Reverend Oyelami expressed concern over the behavior of some Christian young girls and urged them to embrace the teachings of Jesus Christ, becoming shining examples among their peers. He also highlighted the importance of prioritising their educational development and advised against engaging in actions that could hinder God’s purpose in their lives.

Additionally, Reverend Oyelami wished the Girls Auxiliary a blessed and successful conference and emphasised the importance of applying the lessons learned throughout the event.