Sermon: Pastor Selasi Amedeka (taken from Aps Mike Kwame Etrue’s write-up)
The Practice of Waiting on God Through Fasting and Prayer
Excerpts from the sermon
Introduction:
As a church (COP), it’s been observed that many members are not fully participating in the activities of the preparatory week of the Lord’s supper. Hence, it’s become expedient that we reiterate that it’s the duty of all members.
Waiting on God is ‘an appointment with God until He shows up’. This is not an easy task at all in our fast-paced world.
How to wait on GOD:
1. Setting aside specific times to wait on Him, to study the Word and receive spiritual guidance and strength from Him.
2. Occasional retreat to refresh and revive our spirits and receive directions from Him.
How to go about it:
Plan it, but allow for spontaneity
Isolation for solitude (Mark 1:35);
Eliminate distractions and focus on specific areas with appropriate scriptures;
Schedule time for resting while waiting on Him;
Make notes and study them carefully and revisit them from time to time (Hab 2:2);
Essence of fasting in Waiting on God - Fasting:
Draws us closer to God;
Humbles us before God;
Renews our strength (Isa 40:31);
Ensures the abiding presence of God.
The Role of Prayer in Waiting on God:
1. Vital for spiritual growth
2. Opens avenues for breakthrough.
All fasting and prayer meetings spearheaded by the Centre, including beginning with Jesus, God Chasers conference, and weekly Pentecost Encounter, are for the spiritual growth of our members. And it’s for your own benefit, so patronise them. It will do you a lot of good.
When you’re challenged, let your faith rise for you to embark on fasting and prayer.
Just as Jesus consistently waited and prayed before any major outreach, let’s make time for fasting and prayer regularly, to be empowered for all our ministry activities.
