By Afolabi Olajuwon
The Foursquare Gospel Church at the Wuse District Headquarters in Abuja, Nigeria, marked a momentous occasion on Sunday, June 29, 2025, with its “Prevailing Praise Sunday” celebration. The event, centered on the theme “Moving from Pit to Praise,” drew a large congregation eager to partake in a day of worship, reflection, and spiritual renewal.
The service commenced with an electrifying praise and worship session led by Sister Blessing Ademola. Her soulful melodies and heartfelt renditions of worship songs created an atmosphere of unity and reverence. The congregation, moved by the harmonious tunes, engaged in collective worship, setting the stage for the day’s sermon.
Pastor Ademola Adebisi, delivered a compelling sermon titled “Moving from Pit to Praise.” Drawing from the biblical story of Joseph in Genesis 37:18–25, Pastor Adebisi explored the journey from affliction to divine deliverance. He emphasized that even the righteous are not immune to trials, but God’s faithfulness ensures their ultimate victory.
Pastor Adebisi began by defining the “pit” as a place of darkness, despair, or entrapment. Using Joseph’s story, he illustrated how Joseph, a dreamer destined for greatness, was cast into a pit by his own brothers. Despite this betrayal, Joseph’s story did not end in the pit; God’s plan for his life prevailed.
Pastor Adebisi referenced Psalm 34:19, reminding the congregation that “many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers them from all.” He stressed that while challenges are inevitable, divine deliverance is assured for those who trust in God.
He outlined three primary ways individuals find themselves in the “pit”:
By Pranks (Genesis 37:21–29): Joseph’s brothers initially planned to rescue him, but their indecision led to his sale into slavery. The pastor highlighted the importance of discernment and timely action in avoiding or escaping pitfalls.
Evil Agendas (Psalm 119:85, Psalm 40:1–3): The devil often disguises traps as opportunities. Pastor Adebisi cited examples from the lives of Daniel and Job, urging believers to remain steadfast and vigilant in discerning God’s will.
Self-Affliction (Samson, Jonah, and the Prodigal Son): Disobedience, pride, and greed can lead to self-imposed pits. The pastor encouraged the congregation to learn from these biblical figures and avoid actions that could lead to unnecessary suffering.
Pastor Adebisi provided a roadmap for overcoming affliction and moving toward praise:
Realization and Willingness (Luke 17:15): Acknowledging one’s situation is the first step toward restoration. The pastor Adebisi urged the congregation to confront their challenges head-on.
Cry to God for Help (Genesis 26:1–3): Earnest prayer and seeking divine intervention are crucial in times of trouble. Pastor Adebisi encouraged believers to turn to God in their moments of despair.
Praise Your Way Out (Acts 16:25–26): Drawing from the story of Paul and Silas, the pastor emphasized the transformative power of praise. He reminded the congregation that praise can break chains, open prison doors, and shift circumstances.
In his closing remarks, Pastor Adebisi reassured the congregation that no matter how deep the pit, God’s power is sufficient to lift them out. He encouraged believers to trust in God, pray earnestly, and praise relentlessly, knowing that their stories would ultimately shift from the pit to praise.
The “Prevailing Praise Sunday” celebration left a lasting impact on attendees, many of whom expressed gratitude for the timely and uplifting message. The event not only strengthened the faith of the congregation but also reinforced the church’s commitment to fostering spiritual growth and community unity.
As the Foursquare Gospel Church, Wuse in Abuja continues to inspire and uplift its members, the message of “Moving from Pit to Praise” serves as a beacon of hope, reminding believers that with God, every affliction has an expiration date, and every story can end in praise.
*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.
