By Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon
The Sunday service at Foursquare Gospel Church, Wuse District Headquarters, Abuja on August 18, 2024, was filled with anticipation following a 30 minutes electrifying and Spirit-filled choir ministration led by Sister Ene Itodo. As the music faded, Pastor Adebayo Azeez, approached the pulpit to deliver a powerful message titled: “God is a Very Present Help.”
In a world fraught with uncertainty and daily challenges, the timeless reassurance from scriptures such as Psalm 46:1-7 reverberates with profound significance: “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble.” Pastor Azeez Adebayo eloquently explores these truths, reminding believers of the steadfast presence of God in the midst of life’s trials.
Drawing on the resilient character of Ruth, in (Ruth Chapter 2), he explored how her unwavering faith and determination reflect the attitudes and challenges that many of today’s Christians face. Just as Ruth found favour and provision through her steadfastness, we too are promised God’s unwavering support and aid.
Sermon Discussion:
We Live a Life of Challenges:
Life is fraught with trials and tribulations, but God stands by us amidst these trials. Difficulties and adversities are part and parcel of the human experience. However, Psalm 46:1 assures us, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.” God’s presence is not fleeting; it is persistent and enduring.
God is Not Thinking Like You!
As finite beings, our perceptions and thoughts are limited. Pastor Azeez reminds us that God’s thoughts and ways are higher than ours. His wisdom surpasses our understanding, and His plans for us are bound in His perfect will, even when we cannot comprehend them.
Pastor Azeez confirm that God is in Constant Touch, Bringing People Together. God orchestrates divine connections and relationships. Just as Boaz was positioned to be Ruth’s kinsman-redeemer, God brings the right people into our lives at the right time. These connections often serve as lifelines in times of need.
God is Readily Available in Times of Trouble:
In times of distress and despair, God is readily accessible. Numbers 35:6-11 outlines the cities of refuge designated for those in need of asylum. These cities symbolize God’s readiness to offer shelter and protection. We need only to turn to Him.
Biblical Illustration of Psalm 46:3
speaks of tumultuous waters and shaking mountains, metaphors for life’s tumult. Yet, amidst the chaos, God’s steadfastness is our anchor. He is unmovable and immovable.
Analyzing Psalm 46 : 4. A Place Where God Resides, declares “There is a river whose streams make glad the city of God, the holy place where the Most High dwells.” This verse emphasizes the presence of God within His people. You are the city of God; the Holy Spirit resides within you, said Pastor Azeez. This indwelling makes you resilient and indomitable.
The City of God Cannot Be Defeated
When you align yourself with God’s presence, you tap into a divine fortitude that is unconquerable. God’s help is both timely and precise. He intervenes at the perfect moment, never too late, never too early, declares Pastor Azeez.
In conclusion, Pastor Azeez encouraged congregants to anchor their faith in the unwavering promise that God is a very present help. Life’s adversities may come and go, but God’s presence remains steadfast. Let us embody the resilience of Ruth, the faithfulness of the city of God, and the strength that comes from the Holy Spirit dwelling within us.
Prayer Points:
1. For Divine Connection: That God would bring the right people into our lives to support us in our journeys.
2. For Strength and Resilience: That we may be fortified as the city of God, unshakeable and steadfast.
3. For Trust in God’s Timing: That we may have the patience to wait for God’s perfect timing, trusting in His plans and purposes.
4. For God’s Ever-Present Help: That we may continually feel and rely on God’s presence, especially in times of trouble.
May God bless and keep you, strengthening you with His ever-present help, Pastor Azeez played.
*Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon is a Fellow of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Fellow of the Institute of Management Consultants, a Researcher and resource person at the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja.
