The fourth and final Sunday service of January 2026 was an occasion for profound spiritual introspection and heartfelt worship, centered around the theme “Divine Honour and Dignity.” Held on January 25, 2026, the service featured a compelling sermon delivered by Rev. Dr. Babatunde Idowu, Senior Pastor and District Overseer, titled “Divinely Obtaining a Lasting Reputable Name.”
From the outset, as the church choir led an uplifting session of praise, the sanctuary was filled with a palpable sense of reverence and spiritual energy. Worshippers gathered in unity, bolstered by a steadfast belief in God’s enduring faithfulness and guidance throughout life’s various seasons.
In his message, Rev. Dr. Idowu drew from the rich historical context of Abraham and the Israelites, illustrating how God’s signs and wonders continued to manifest despite delays, trials, and uncertainties. He reminded the congregation that embarking on a journey with God may not yield immediate results; however, divine timing is always perfect. As Scripture indicates, God’s promises unfold in accordance with His greater purpose rather than human expectations.
Continuity of the Journey
Rev. Idowu emphasized the theme of continuity in the journey with God, referencing Nehemiah 9:12 and significant passages from Exodus. He explained that God guided the Israelites through the wilderness, not out of punishment but as preparation. This wilderness experience, he noted, cultivates spiritual strength, wisdom, and perseverance.
The Scriptures convey that God led Israel with a pillar of cloud by day and a pillar of fire by night, signifying consistent and reliable divine leadership. Rev. Idowu proofed that God is intimately aware of every route through the wilderness, urging believers to trust and follow Him without reservation.
The Significance of the Pillar of Cloud and Fire
Untangling the spiritual significance of these pillars, Rev. Idowu outlined their essential divine functions:
– Clear Direction: The pillars provided a clear path for Israel’s movements.
– Ceaseless Clarity: Divine guidance was in effect day and night.
– Protection from Straying: They safeguarded the Israelites from diverging from God’s will.
– Navigation through Storms: As recorded in Exodus 40:36–38, God orchestrated each step of their journey.
– Reassurance of Divine Presence: God’s proximity fostered confidence and tranquility.
– Divine Defense: In Exodus 14:19–20, the pillar shielded Israel from adversaries.
Drawing parallels to the New Testament, Rev. Idowu referenced John 14:16, teaching that the Holy Spirit assumes the role of a constant guide and protector for believers. Additionally, he described the Word of God as a lamp that illuminates paths, maintaining honour and dignity in the believer’s life.
God’s Provision Along the Way:
From Nehemiah 9:12–15, Rev. Idowu reminded congregants of God’s miraculous provision, offering manna to satiate hunger and water from the rock to quench thirst. These instances exemplify God as a faithful provider meeting needs in extraordinary ways. He illustrated this truth further through the narrative of Elijah at the brook Cherith in 1 Kings 17:1–7, distilling key lessons:
– Abundant Provision in Drought: God’s provision remains steadfast, irrespective of scarcity.
– Understanding Timing: Recognizing divine timing and seasons is vital.
– Unlikely Deliveries: God can command unexpected sources for provision.
– Acting on His Word: Obedience unlocks divine sustenance.
– Commanded Blessings: Where God operates, blessings abound.
– Strategic Action: Believers must heed divine guidance intentionally.
– Prioritizing God: This secures lasting honour and dignity.
Call to Dependence and Sensitivity
Rev. Idowu called upon the congregation to fully depend on God, remain spiritually vigilant, and attune themselves to divine direction amidst uncertainty. He conveyed that lasting honour and a reputable name emerge from obedience, trust, and alignment with God’s will.
The service culminated in fervent prayers led by Rev. Dr. Babatunde Idowu, as worshippers dedicated their journeys, careers, families, and aspirations to God. The atmosphere brimmed with renewed faith and assurance that divine honour and dignity are within reach through steadfast obedience and reliance on God.
As congregants departed, many expressed gratitude for the timely and impactful message, affirming that the sermon had strengthened their resolve to faithfully follow God, trusting Him to navigate every wilderness and lead them toward lasting honour.
Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon is a freelance writer and Christian educator based in Abuja, Nigeria, with a passion for documenting faith-based initiatives and their impact on communities.
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