The Chairman of The Church of Pentecost and President of the Ghana Pentecostal and Charismatic Council (GPCC), Apostle Eric Nyamekye, joined the Christian Faith Church International (CFCI) in Takoradi on Sunday, December 15, 2024, to celebrate the 70th birthday anniversary of their leader, Bishop Emmanuel Botwey. This day also marked Bishop Botwey’s 40th year in active ministry.
Preaching the sermon, Apostle Nyamekye emphasised the significance of life as God’s most precious gift, urging believers to value it above all material possessions. Speaking on the topic, ‘Life for a Prize,’ he highlighted the grace of longevity, noting that living beyond 70 years is a rare blessing. Citing global statistics, he pointed out that 24% of the world’s population is under 14 years, 66% are between 16 and 64 years, and only 8% are above 65 years.
‘Living beyond 70 is truly a blessing,’ he remarked, adding that life itself is the most precious asset anyone can possess. Without it, he said, one ceases to be part of the living.
‘The best thing God can do for us is to give us life and long life. Let us live in a way that will make God grant us this gift,’ he added.
Referencing Jeremiah Chapter 45, which tells the story of Baruch, a man troubled by the conflicts resulting from his association with the prophet Jeremiah, Apostle Nyamekye explained that believers often become disillusioned by the troubles they face.
He defined ‘prize’ as a reward for victory or superiority, stating that while humans chase material rewards, God’s ultimate prize for His children is life itself. Apostle Nyamekye urged Christians to guard two critical things – life and their name. He highlighted that while life is a gift from God, individuals also have a responsibility to care for it through their actions and choices.
He advised Christians not to worry about tomorrow, quoting Matthew 6:25. Worry, he explained, is a tormenting and unproductive thought process that brings no solutions.
‘The God who created us knows the load our necks can carry. Worrying is not planning; it is negative thinking,’ he revealed.
Apostle Nyamekye encouraged Christians to commit their cares to God and adopt a ‘day-tight’ approach to life.
Citing Deuteronomy 27:22 to illustrate how even God works ‘little by little,’ he stated: ‘Each day comes with its own challenges.’
He concluded by reminding Christians to trust God, plan wisely, and prioritise their spiritual and physical well-being, saying, ‘Life is the ultimate prize, and how we live it reflects our gratitude to God.’
The event brought together various dignitaries, including government officials, traditional rulers, and other church leaders. Notable among them were Apostle Sylvester Arhin (Takoradi Area Head) and Apostle ADP James Tetteh (Sekondi Area Head).
Pent News