04/01/2026
DIVINE SERVICE
Sunday, January 4, 2026
Officiant:
Bro. Dr. Simeon Onakughotor
(Branch Chairman)
CHAIRMAN'S OPENING REMARKS
The Chairman reminded the congregation of the brevity and fragility of life, noting that our time on earth is limited and must be wisely used. He encouraged believers to maximize their time, deploying every God-given potential to the best of their ability.
Quoting the prayer in Psalms 39:4, “Lord, make me to know my end and the measure of my days,” he called on members to live purposefully. As the New Year begins, he urged everyone to renew their minds and commit to doing better in every area of life, with particular emphasis on being more diligent in the service of God.
SERMON : THE JUST SHALL LIVE BY FAITH. DRAWN FROM HEBREWS 10:38.
■WHAT IS FAITH?
Faith Is defined in Hebrews 11:1 as the substance of things hoped for and the evidence of things not seen. Bro. Onakughotor stressed that strong confidence in God is the foundation of any meaningful relationship with Him.
It is IMPOSSIBLE TO PLEASE GOD WITHOUT FAITH, as anyone who comes to Him must believe that He exists and that He rewards those who diligently seek Him. Hebrews 11:6.
■FAITH VERSUS FEAR
The congregation was admonished to do away with every form of fear, as fear is incompatible with genuine faith. A true child of God, should not live in fear. As fear is eradicated, faith is strengthened, Believers should trust in God’s constant presence, in line with the exhortation: “Be strong and of good courage - Joshua 1:9. Allowing fear into any area of life can cause that area to begin to fail, illustrated with the account of Peter walking on water—who began to sink when fear set in. Matt. 14:29-30
■EXAMPLES OF ANCIENT FAITHFUL
The sermon highlighted ancient men of faith who demonstrated unwavering trust in God and were rewarded:
●Abraham, who believed God’s promises ; Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego, who stood firm against a powerful king, even in the face of death.
■CLOSING EXHORTATION
Members were reminded that life is seasonal, and difficult phases do not last forever. They therefore need patience, so that after doing the will of God, they can receive His promises. Hebrews 10:36.
The sermon concluded with a call for believers to live daily by faith, trusting God completely, regardless of circumstances, as He has promised to keep those who trust in Him, in PERFECT PEACE . Isaiah 26: 3&4.