The Impact of Prayer in the Life of a Christian by Special Apostle Pastor G.E. Oladejo

Welcome everyone to today’s service, and congratulations to all the bands celebrating their anniversary.

Today, we are looking at the impact of prayer in the life of a Christian. Many of us say we pray—but what truly is prayer?

What is Prayer?

Prayer is a relationship between man and God.
It is the way we communicate with God and acknowledge His sovereignty over our lives.

Prayer shows that:

• We recognize God as our Father
• We believe we can speak to Him directly

Hebrews 11:6 reminds us:

“Without faith it is impossible to please God.”

So, for our prayers to be meaningful:

1. You must have faith in God
2. You must seek Him diligently

Some people rely on others (“prayer contractors”) to pray on their behalf, but as believers, we have direct access to God.

Prayer as a Cornerstone of Christianity

Prayer is a cornerstone of the Christian life.

As Christians:

• We must read and meditate on the Word of God
• The next step is prayer

Do not spend all your time on social media. Instead, invest time in studying the Word and praying.

Even Jesus emphasized prayer because He understood its importance. He showed us how to stay close to God.

What Makes Prayer Effective?

1. Run Away from Sin

• Sin hinders prayer
• Sin breaks our relationship with God
• A sinner’s first prayer should be a prayer of repentance

Matthew 6:12

“Forgive us our sins, as we forgive those who sin against us.”

2. Be Thankful

• Thanksgiving is key to answered prayers
• Avoid constant complaining

1 Thessalonians 5:18

“In all circumstances give thanks, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”

Gratitude opens doors in prayer.

3. Learn to Forgive

• Unforgiveness blocks prayers
• Even when it is painful, you must forgive

Matthew 6:14–15

If you forgive others, God will forgive you; if not, your prayers can be hindered.

Before you pray, examine your heart. Forgiveness gives you free access to God.

Impact of Prayer in Our Lives

1. It Builds Intimacy with God

Prayer draws us closer to God.

• It strengthens our relationship with Him
• It creates personal moments with God

Your “mountain of prayer” can be your room—a quiet place where you seek Him without distraction.

2. It Aligns Us with God’s Will

Prayer helps us to pray according to God's will.

1 John 5:14

If we ask anything according to His will, He hears us.

Note: To know God’s will, you must read your Bible.

3. It Helps Us Intercede for Others

We are called to pray for others.

Galatians 6:1
Romans 15:1

True prayer includes standing in the gap for others.

Special Charge to Men (Anniversary Message)

1. Leadership Responsibility

Genesis 18:18–19
God calls men to lead their families and guide others toward Him.

Ask yourself:

• Am I leading my family to know God?
• Am I fulfilling my responsibility?

2. Carry Your Cross Daily

Luke 9:23–24
Following Christ is not occasional—it is daily.

3. You Are God’s Representative

1 Peter 2:9

You are:

• A chosen generation
• A royal priesthood

You are Christ’s example in:

• Your home
• Your workplace
• Your community

Conclusion

Prayer is not just an activity—it is a lifestyle.
It strengthens our relationship with God, aligns us with His will, and empowers us to live as true Christians.

Let us:

• Live a life of prayer
• Avoid sin
• Give thanks always
• Forgive others
• Lead others to Christ

Happy Sunday

God’s Mercy in Uncertain Times- By Pastor Ademola Aladesuru

Opening Prayer/Exhortation

Let us begin with Psalm 146.

Blessed be the name of the Lord! We thank Him for another opportunity to be in His presence.
He is the One who keeps us every day and at all times.

Let us say together: “Thank You, Jesus!”
Thank You, Lord, for the privilege to stand before You.
Thank You for keeping us among the living.

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Introduction

Today’s topic is God’s Mercy in Uncertain Times.

God’s mercy is always available to us, no matter the situation. The Bible tells us:

“In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

God continually reminds us that His mercy is sufficient for us.

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Our Bible Texts

• Isaiah 43:1–7
• Jude 1:20–25

We will focus more on Isaiah 43:1-7 to understand what God desires for us as His children.

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What is the Mercy of God?

The mercy of God is His compassion toward us.

• Even while we were still sinners, Christ died for us.
• This is the expression of God’s mercy.

“For God so loved the world that He gave His only begotten Son…” (John 3:16)

God created us to have fellowship with Him and made a way for us to come to Him through His Son, Jesus Christ. Through His grace, when we are redeemed, we become children of God.

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Examples of Uncertain Times in the Bible

Many people in the Bible faced uncertain situations, yet God showed them mercy:

• Deborah – a judge who led Israel in difficult times
• The three Hebrew men – refused to bow to idols, and God was with them in the fire
• Job – endured suffering but remained faithful
• The widow (2 Kings 4) – trusted God in debt and lack
• Lazarus and his sisters – experienced delay, but God’s mercy brought resurrection

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Key Truth from Isaiah 43

God has done three important things for us:

1. He created us
2. He formed us
3. He redeemed us

“When you pass through the waters, I will be with you…” (Isaiah 43:2)

Notice:

• God did not say we will not go through challenges
• But He promised His presence in the midst of them

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Understanding Uncertain Times

Uncertain times are moments when:

• You don’t know what to do
• You feel confused or afraid
• You are waiting on God for direction

Even Jesus faced such a moment and prayed:

“Father, let Your will be done.”

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How to Stand in Uncertain Times

1. Have Faith in God

• Without faith, we cannot stand
• God’s mercy endures forever

What we are going through is a passage to greater glory

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2. Wait on God

• Psalm 23:4 reminds us that even in the valley, God is with us
• Do not trust into your own understanding

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3. Trust God’s Mercy

• God's mercy will sustain you through every trial
• He has not forsaken you

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Lessons from Jude 1:20–25

The Bible gives us practical steps:

1. Build your faith

   • Strengthen your faith in God daily

2. Pray in the Holy Spirit

   • The Holy Spirit will guide and teach you

3. Remain in God’s love

   • Stay connected to Him

4. Look for His mercy

   • Expect God to show compassion in your situation

5. Show mercy to others

   • Extend grace to fellow believers

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Conclusion

God desires only one thing from us:
To seek His mercy in every area of our lives.

His mercy is from generation to generation.

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Closing Prayer

I pray that:

• God will give you grace to stand firm in trials
• You will not forsake Him
• His mercy will be sufficient for you in every situation

Let us continue to trust God and stand strong in faith.