The Koforidua Area Head and Executive Council Member of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Mike Etrue, has asserted that spiritual vitality and ministerial impact are sustained through the consistent practice of waiting on God in fasting and prayer.
According to him, in a fast-paced and demanding world, believers—particularly church leaders—must intentionally cultivate the discipline of seeking God through prayer, fasting, and studying His Word.
Apostle Etrue made these remarks on Thursday, June 19, 2025, during a presentation on the topic “The Practice of Waiting Upon God Through Fasting and Prayers” at the 2025 National Prayer Centre Leaders’ Seminar held at the Pentecost Convention Centre (PCC), Gomoa Fetteh.
He explained that the discipline of waiting on God is not a passive exercise but an active, faith-filled pursuit of divine presence, direction, and strength. “Waiting on God is about feasting on Him—finding delight and satisfaction in His presence above all else,” he said.
Apostle Etrue emphasised that spiritual disciplines, both personal and corporate—such as Bible study, prayer, fasting, solitude, and fellowship—are essential for the spiritual health and growth of every believer. “No one has arrived in the work of ministry,” he remarked. “There are no superheroes among us. We must remain grounded through consistent fellowship with the One who called us.”
Outlining practical avenues for church leaders to cultivate this lifestyle, Apostle Etrue recommended a daily practice of waiting, regular personal retreats, and intentional times of prayer and fasting before major programmes. “Your grace is not only for your centre,” he said. “You must engage in district and area activities, and prepare spiritually before every gathering.”
He also outlined helpful guidelines for effective waiting, including creating schedules for prayer and study, choosing solitude, removing distractions, having a clear focus, and journaling divine insights. “Plan it, but allow for spontaneity,” he added, referencing Proverbs 16:9.
Speaking on the essence of fasting, Apostle Etrue clarified that it is not merely abstaining from food, but a spiritual discipline aimed at aligning one’s heart with God’s will. “Fasting is not about twisting God’s hand for blessings. It is about seeking His presence, power, and guidance,” he said.
He noted that fasting, when paired with prayer, leads to transformation, empowerment for ministry, renewal of strength, humility, and increased resistance to temptation. “Fasting sharpens the grace we carry—whether revelational gifts, power gifts, or evangelistic anointing,” he added.
On the subject of prayer, Apostle Etrue urged believers to see prayer as more than asking—it is the foundation of relationship with God. “If we fail to pray, we fail in all areas,” he asserted, pointing to the example of Daniel’s consistent prayer life as a model for believers.
He stressed that Jesus Himself regularly withdrew to wait on the Father, setting a divine standard for Christian living. “In fasting and prayer, we encounter God in ways that transform us. It’s through these disciplines that we find strength to live lives worthy of our calling.”
Concluding his message, Apostle Etrue encouraged the Church to rediscover the joy of waiting on God. “May we learn to wait, feast on God’s presence, and serve Him with passion and power. The more we wait, the more we are renewed.”
PENT NEWS.
