DON’T WASTE THE PAIN web

“Don’t Waste The Pain”

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ABSTRACT

This abstract explores the concept of “Don’t Waste the Pain,” highlighting the importance of embracing and utilising one’s painful experiences as catalysts for personal development. It acknowledges the universal presence of pain and emphasises its transformative potential. Strategies for harnessing pain constructively include self-reflection, support, reframing, meaning, and resilience-building practices. It encourages individuals to embrace their pain as a catalyst for personal growth and resilience, ultimately leading to a more fulfilled and meaningful existence.

INTRODUCTION

“Don’t Waste the Pain” is an invitation to embrace pain as a catalyst for growth, transformation, and a deeper understanding of our purpose. Through biblical narratives and passages, we will learn how it can shape our faith, strengthen our character, and deepen our relationship with God. We will draw inspiration from some biblical figures: Jesus Christ of Nazareth, Job, Paul, Jeremiah, Joseph, David, Hannah and Esther, who weathered storms of pain and emerged as resilient vessels of hope and grace. The experience of pain involves a complex interplay between physical sensations, cognitive processes and emotional responses. It is important to note that pain is subjective, and it can vary from person to person. We will explore the promises of God’s comfort or solace, the power of prayer, and the shining examples of resilience.

UNDERSTANDING PAIN FROM A BIBLICAL PERSPECTIVE

Pain could be explained as an integral part of the human experience, and the Bible provides a rich narrative of its origin, presence, and response.

  • THE ORIGIN OF PAIN

Pain is intertwined with the human condition, a reminder of the brokenness that sin introduced into the world.

  • THE PRESENCE OF PAIN IN BIBLICAL STORIES

The Bible offers numerous accounts of pain and suffering in the lives of both ordinary individuals and revered figures such as Jesus Christ of Nazareth, Job, Paul, Jeremiah, Joseph, David, Hannah, and Esther, who experienced profound pain, yet remained steadfast in their faith in God.

The biblical reference in Luke 22:39-46 portrays Jesus’ profound pain and distress and his unwavering resilience and submission to God’s will in the face of imminent suffering. Job’s story also reminds us that pain does not discriminate and that even the righteous are not immune to its grasp. Joseph’s story illustrates the transformative power of pain as he emerged as a compassionate and forgiving leader.

The biblical reference in Luke 22:39-46 portrays Jesus’ profound pain and distress and His unwavering resilience and submission to God’s will in the face of imminent suffering. Job’s story also reminds us that pain does not discriminate and that even the righteous are not immune to its grasp. Joseph’s story illustrates the transformative power of pain as he emerged as a compassionate and forgiving leader.

Reading from Job 2:7-8: “So Satan went out from the presence of the Lord and struck Job with painful sores from the soles of his feet to the crown of his head. Then Job took a piece of broken pottery and scraped himself with it as he sat among the ashes.” Again, Job 3:24-26: says, “For sighing has become my daily food; my groans pour out like water. What I feared has come upon me; what I dreaded has happened to me. I have no peace, no quietness; I have no rest, but only turmoil.”

In Genesis 37:23-24, the Bible states: “So when Joseph came to his brothers, they stripped him of his robe—the ornate robe he was wearing—and took him and threw him into the cistern. The cistern was empty; there was no water in it.” It is recorded in Genesis 39:20 that “Joseph’s master took him and put him in prison, the place where the king’s prisoners were confined….”

For David, Psalm 22:1-2: says, “My God, my God, why have you forsaken me? Why are you so far from saving me, so far from my cries of anguish? My God, I cry out by day, but you do not answer; by night, but I find no rest.” He again says in Psalm 38:17-18: “For I am about to fall, and my pain is ever with me. I confess my iniquity; I am troubled by my sin.”

Hannah’s story in 1 Samuel 1:10 -11 is another positive example of a woman who did not allow pain and suffering to define her or break her spirit. Instead, she channelled her pain into prayer and turned to God for comfort and guidance. Hannah’s pain drove her to seek solace and strength in her faith, and she used her anguish as a catalyst for deep heartfelt prayer. God heard Hannah’s prayer, and she eventually conceived and gave birth to a son named Samuel. Her faith and perseverance ultimately led to a remarkable outcome and a significant impact on the nation of Israel.

The above passages highlight the experiences of Jesus Christ, Job, Joseph, Jeremiah, David, Esther and Hannah amid their personal sufferings and pains. They reflect their cries to God, their feelings of abandonment, and the enduring nature of their afflictions. These stories remind us of the reality of pain and the challenges individuals face in the Bible, demonstrating the human struggle and the need for faith and trust in difficult times.

GOD’S RESPONSE TO PAIN

The Bible reveals a compassionate and loving God who responds to the cries of His people. Psalm 34:18 and Isaiah 41:10 speak of God’s comforting presence and desire to bring healing and restoration. Jesus Christ experienced pain firsthand during His earthly ministry, emphasising our pain and offering redemption and the promise of eternal life. Pain can be embraced as a path to spiritual growth by drawing lessons from biblical figures who experienced pain and emerged more robust in their faith.

EMBRACING PAIN AS A PATH TO SPIRITUAL GROWTH

Pain can lead to spiritual growth, inspiring us to explore the lessons learned from biblical figures who experienced it. Pain is seen as a refining fire capable of purifying and strengthening our faith. Proverbs 17:3 and 1 Peter 1:6-7 remind us that pain is not a sign of God’s absence or punishment but an instrument through which our faith is tested and refined. By embracing pain, we develop a deeper understanding of our dependence on God and the resilience of our faith.

LESSONS FROM BIBLICAL FIGURES

The lives of biblical figures offer powerful lessons on embracing pain as a catalyst for spiritual growth. Job, Joseph, and David offer insights into pain’s transformative nature. Job’s journey through pain transformed his perspective and deepened his understanding of God’s sovereignty. Joseph’s story reminds us that pain can be a vehicle for God’s providential plans, even when we cannot see the whole picture. David’s journey was not without hardship and suffering, but through it all, he developed perseverance, humility, and a steadfast trust in God.

DEVELOPING PERSEVERANCE AND CHARACTER

Pain has the unique ability to develop perseverance and character within us. Apostle James encourages believers to embrace the pain to cultivate endurance and maturity. The example of Apostle Paul further underscores the transformative power of pain, showing that it can be a catalyst for spiritual growth. Through his suffering, Paul experienced a profound intimacy with God and could minister to others from a place of authentic empathy and understanding.

TRANSFORMING PAIN THROUGH FAITH AND HOPE

Faith and hope can transform pain and suffering, drawing insights from biblical passages to offer assurance and encouragement. The following section will explore finding hope and renewal amid the pain:

  • FINDING HOPE IN SUFFERING

The Bible provides hope and assurance for those enduring pain. Paul reminds us that the sufferings of this present time pale compared to the eternal glory and joy that awaits us in God’s presence. Psalm 34:17-18 assures us that God is attentive to our cries and intimately present in our pain. Apostle Peter encourages believers to cast their anxieties and pain upon God, knowing He cares for them.

  • TRUSTING IN GOD’S PLAN

Trusting in God’s plan and surrendering to His sovereignty are essential to finding meaning and purpose amid the pain. Proverbs 3:5-6 encourages us to trust God’s wisdom and guidance, and Jeremiah 29:11 speaks to the assurance of God’s plans for His people. Jesus Himself set an example of trust and surrender in the face of excruciating pain, demonstrating the transformative power of trusting in God’s plan.

  • THE REDEMPTIVE POWER OF PAIN

The story of Joseph serves as an example of how God can redeem and transform pain for His greater purposes. Joseph’s brothers sold him into slavery, leading to years of suffering and imprisonment, but in Genesis 50:20, Joseph acknowledges God’s redemptive hand in his pain. Through Joseph’s pain, God preserved the lives of many and ultimately fulfilled His divine plan.

OVERCOMING PAIN

In the final section of this book, we will explore how to overcome the fear of pain and navigate its challenges. Overcoming the fear of pain with biblical guidance is crucial since the Bible provides wisdom and guidance to overcome the fear of pain and embrace its transformative journey.

  • GOD’S PROMISES OF COMFORT

God’s promises of comfort and presence in Psalm 34:18 and Isaiah 41:10 are potent reminders that we are not alone in our pain, providing the strength and support needed to navigate difficult circumstances.

  • THE POWER OF PRAYER AND SEEKING GOD’S GUIDANCE

Prayer is a powerful tool that can help us overcome fear and pain. Through prayer, we can bring our FEARS, WORRIES, AND PAIN BEFORE GOD AND SEEK HIS GUIDANCE AND WISDOM.

SOME BIBLICAL EXAMPLES OF RESILIENCE

The Bible contains examples of individuals who displayed resilience and faith in the face of pain. Reading from Jeremiah 1:17-19, 20:7-9, 2 Corinthians 12:7-10 and Esther 4:1-4, it is evident that Jeremiah, Paul and Esther are three examples of individuals who demonstrated resilience and faith in the face of pain. Jeremiah’s conviction and passion for God’s word propelled him forward, while Paul’s words reflect a deep resilience and trust in God’s strength and faithfulness. Esther’s story also highlights women’s strength, resilience and bravery in adversity and continues to inspire people today.

LIFE APPLICATION

God’s strength is made perfect in our weakness, and He equips us to endure and overcome pain. However, we should trust God’s plan and find hope and growth through faith.

CONCLUSION

Beloved, let pain catalyse transformation, growth, and a deeper intimacy with God. Embrace it and trust God’s faithfulness to find hope, healing, and purpose amid trials. Romans 8:18 reminds us that suffering is temporary, but the glory that awaits us is eternal. Never allow pain to consume you or bring you down; instead, take an opportunity of pain for growth and self-improvement. Do not despair when you face complex problems that seem to have no solutions. Jesus Christ has already paid the price to provide you with a solution to every problem you will ever meet. Rise with determination, faith, faithfulness, perseverance, diligence, and absolute reliability of God’s promises, and he will bring you safely through all adversities. You are more than a conqueror. Don’t waste the pain!

Written by Pastor Manasseh Mintah (Atimatim District, Old Tafo Area)

PIWC Goaso Hosts Gospel Dinner Night web

PIWC Goaso Hosts Gospel Dinner Night

by with No Comment Church NewsEvangelism MinistryHUMTop Stories

The Pentecost International Worship Centre, Goaso (PIWC Goaso), a ministry of The Church of Pentecost, recently organised a captivating gospel dinner night named “Besorah.” 

The event, a brainchild of the Resident Minister, Pastor Eric Herbert Acheampong, was held in collaboration with the Area Evangelism Ministry and the Home and Urban Missions (HUM) to climax the National Evangelism Week-long activities. 

The participants engaged in a series of activities, including a red carpet and photoshoot session, an interaction with a Lifestyle Coach, stand-up comedy, and a soul-stirring “Bless the Mic” musical session, accompanied by a delightful selection of Ghanaian, Nigerian, and continental dishes.

In an address, Pastor Acheampong said that the event aimed to foster strong fellowship among members, saying, “This occasion is specifically designed to reach out to backslidden members and foreign nationals residing in Goaso.”

Speaking on the topic, “Come and Dine”- (John 21:12 and Revelation 3:18), Pastor Acheampong said that after causing a miraculous bounty catch of fish, Jesus invited the disciples to share in a meal.

Pastor Acheampong underscored the significance of Jesus’ invitation, describing it as “a special and heartfelt appeal to enrich lives through Him.”

 “Jesus is the Bread of Life, the only sustenance on which we can truly feast,” he pointed out.

The Resident Minister further explained that Jesus’ plea for the disciples to come and dine was a personal invitation extended to all, irrespective of social class, race, colour, or status. This shows that God’s invitation knows no discrimination and is open to everyone.

“By accepting Jesus’ invitation and opening their hearts, individuals establish a relationship with Him and partake in fellowship through shared meals,” he added.

He highlighted that those who respond to this invitation are guaranteed eternal life.

In light of the approaching end times, Pastor Acheampong called upon those yet to embrace Christ as their Lord and personal Saviour to consider doing so. He emphasised the urgency of the matter.

The impactful ‘Besorah Dinner Night’ led to the salvation of nine souls, including commercial sex workers, and the rededication of other backsliders to Christ.

Report by PIWC Goaso Media Team.

The Church of Pentecost Renovates Zebilla DA Classroom Block web

The Church of Pentecost Renovates Zebilla D/A Classroom Block

by with No Comment Church NewsPENTSOSTop Stories

The Zebilla District in the Bawku Area of The Church of Pentecost has successfully renovated a three-unit classroom block for Zebilla D/A Primary School in the Bawku West district at a cost of GHC 8,700.00.

The school, which is purported to be the oldest in the district (established in 1946), has trained prominent people of the region.

Despite its goodwill, the school facility was in a deplorable state and needed urgent attention.

In fulfillment of the Church’s strategic vision (Vision 2023) which includes championing societal transformation, the Zebilla District came to the aid of the school.

During a short ceremony on Wednesday, June 14, 2023, to hand over the project back to the school authorities, the Bawku Area Head, Pastor Eric Gyacham, encouraged the leaders and all present to cultivate the spirit of maintenance culture for nation-building.

Speaking in an interview with PENTECOST NEWS on the sidelines of the event, the Zebilla District Minister, Overseer Michael Kudodzi, said that the Church does not exist only to offer spiritual help, but rather, through a holistic approach, it seeks to bring spiritual, physical, economic, and social transformation and development to human life and the communities it resides in.

Present at the ceremony were representatives of the Zebilla District Director of the Ghana Education Service (GES), the Circuit Supervisor, the Director in charge of Finance and Administration, the Deputy Coordinating Director of the Bawku West District Assembly, as well as the Headteacher and staff of the school.

The event also had in attendance a cross-section of the Area pastorate and their wives.

Report by Bawku Area Media Team

Medical Village Assembly Church Building Dedicated web

Medical Village Assembly Church Building Dedicated

by with No Comment Church NewsMissionsTop Stories

The Nkwanta Area Head of The Church of Pentecost, Apostle Seth Dwamena Asante, has dedicated the Medical Village Assembly church building in the Sabon District of the Church.

Presented to assist the Area Head in dedicating the building, which took place on Friday, June 9, 2023, were the District Minister, Pastor Gordon Boadi and other ministers in the Area.  

The building project started in 2020 when the assembly received a CBCB grant from Headquarters after worshipping under a pavilion for some time. 

The sermon was delivered by the Brewaniase District Minister of the Church, Pastor Albert Adu-Gyamfi, on the topic: “The need for church buildings,” – Haggai 1:1-8. 

Among other things, Pastor Adu-Gyamfi said that church buildings are essential to Christian worship because God takes pleasure in them and exhumes His glory. 

He added that a church building shows the presence of God in the community, serves as a place to meet God and have fellowship with Him, provides a consistent meeting place for Christians or church members in an area, and is a place to nurture the saints. 

Pastor Adu-Gyamfi, therefore, admonished church members to use their resources to support church-building projects and take good care of them since it is the “House of God.”

Bringing his sermon to a close, Pastor Albert Adu-Gyamfi said that in the current dispensation, God’s temple is not a physical building, but rather, His people (1 Cor. 3:16-17).

He called on believers to prioritise making their bodies a fitting dwelling place for the Holy Spirit.

Report by Pastor Albert Adu-Gyamfi (Chairman, Area Media Committee).

CENTRIFUGAL WORSHIP - THE NEW CHRISTIAN MOVEMENT web

Centrifugal Worship: The New Christian Movement

by with No Comment ArticlesTop StoriesYouth Ministry

This article draws inspiration from a lecture by Apostle Dr. Alfred Koduah, the former General Secretary of The Church of Pentecost, titled “Sharing the Gospel in Contemporary Times” at the Pentecost School of Theology and Mission (PSTM). The terms “centripetal worship” and “centrifugal worship” were introduced during the lecture. I will, thus, delve into these concepts and their relation to spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ in the modern era.

Centripetal, a term derived from physics, refers to the force that propels an object travelling in a circular path towards the centre of that circle. It ensures that an object continues moving in a circular motion and prevents it from moving in a straight line.

In the Old Testament (OT), kings, prophets, and judges engaged in centripetal worship, with Jerusalem as the focal point. People from all over the world would journey to Jerusalem to worship, believing that God resided solely in the temple. Upon the completion of the temple’s construction in Jerusalem, King Solomon prayed in 1 Kings 8:22–51, emphasising the significance of the temple. His prayer includes multiple references to the temple. This indicates that both the king and the nation believed God’s presence was confined to the temple and the nation.

This belief was rooted in the practice of worship in the Tabernacle, which consisted of two distinct inner spaces: “the holy place” and “the most holy place” (Holy of Holies). The outer room, known as the “holy place,” housed the seven-branched candelabrum (menorah), the altar of incense, and the table for the bread of the Presence (shewbread). As the Ark of the Covenant was carried to different locations, the presence of God was believed to be there. Thus, when King Darius issued a decree forbidding anyone to pray to any god except the king, Daniel, in Daniel 6:10, turned his face toward Jerusalem to worship. Similarly, the Ethiopian worshipper described in Acts 8:26–40 travelled from his country to Jerusalem to offer his prayers to God.

However, contemporary Christians should embrace centrifugal worship instead of centripetal worship. “Fictitious” or “apparent” force is often used to describe centrifugal force. It appears to push objects away from the centre of rotation, opposing the centripetal force. Thus, centrifugal worship involves moving away from the centre, symbolised by Jerusalem, and spreading the gospel to the rest of the world. Jesus, understanding His disciples’ thoughts, instructed them to remain in Jerusalem until they were baptised in the Holy Spirit, empowering them to bear witness to Him in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth (Acts 1:8). This great commission is reiterated by Jesus in Matthew 28:19–20, urging His disciples to leave Jerusalem and go into the world, making disciples, baptising them, and teaching them to follow His commands. Acts 4 demonstrates the fulfilment of Jesus’ directive as three thousand (3000) men were saved. Despite the initial focus on Jerusalem due to the apostles’ enjoyment of a large following, it took persecution in Acts 8, 11, and elsewhere for the church to expand globally.

As contemporary Christians, we must engage in centrifugal worship by actively sharing the gospel with everyone. We cannot receive and keep the Word to ourselves while others perish. God sent His only begotten son out of His immense love to save the world. Instead of confining ourselves to comfortable spaces, we must demonstrate God’s love to those who have not heard of Jesus.

Today, we have various ways to spread the gospel, such as utilising social media, engaging in personal evangelism, reaching out to marginalised communities, including physically-challenged individuals, and even going from house to house – We have no excuse!

Therefore, our commitment to the Great Commission must be unwavering, as every soul matters.

Written by P/Overseer Solomon Boadi

PIWC Kotei Donates Motorbike To Mem-Chemfere District web

PIWC Kotei Donates Motorbike To Mem-Chemfere District

by with No Comment Church NewsMissionsTop Stories

Taking inspiration from the scriptures, which admonish Christians to give to the needy (Romans 12:13), the Pentecost International Worship Centre, Kotei (PIWC Kotei) in Kumasi, has acquired a motorbike worth GHS 13,000.00 for the Mem-Chemfere District of The Church of Pentecost in the Afram Plains Area.

Under the leadership of the Resident Minister, Pastor Peter Blood Asante Afful, and his Executives, PIWC Kotei raised a special offering and procured a brand-new Royal Sport 200 motorbike for the Mem-Chemfere District.

In a colourful service to climax the National Youth Week celebration on Sunday, June 11, 2023, Pastor Asante Afful, together with Elder Dr Ing. Emmanuel Appiah Kubi (Presiding Elder), Elder Dr Isaac Nunoo (PEMEM Leader) and Elder Dr Boakye Boadu (District Secretary), on behalf of the church, presented the motorbike to the Mem-Chemfere District Minister, Pastor Abraham Eduam, and his wife.  

As the icing on the cake, a member of the church (name withheld) offered to fuel the motorbike from June to December this year. 

Report by Dr Obed Broohm & Nicholas Quansah, Kumasi. 

Effective Time Management Is Profitable - Pastor Akonnor Tells Students web

Effective Time Management Is Profitable – Pastor Akonnor Tells Students

by with No Comment Church NewsTop StoriesYouth Ministry

Pastor Frank Akonnor, the Resident Campus Minister of the Cape Coast University (UCC) branch of the Pentecost Students and Associates (PENSA), has challenged students of the School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Cape Coast to effectively manage their time in order to be profitable and productive in life.

Speaking on the topic, ‘Time Management,’ on Thursday, June 8, 2023 at the UCC main campus auditorium 900, Pastor Akonnor emphasised the need for students to demonstrate total commitment to time and its management towards achieving greater things for themselves.

According to the PENSA-UCC Resident Campus Pastor, good time management “leads to profitability and productivity.”

He further stated that most students waste too much of their time on unnecessary issues that add no value to their lives, resulting in their failure to achieve their goals as they grow up.

“It is difficult to count many great achievers and influencers of the world who failed to attach importance to time,” he said.

Highlighting on good time management tips, he asked the students to create a daily planner, give each task a time limit, set reminders for all tasks, avoid distractions and establish routines.

Pastor Akonnor further mentioned achievement of goals, increased productivity, and better work-life balance as some of the key benefits of time management.

In a brief address, the Head of Department for Mental Health, Dr. Jerry Paul Ninnoni, advised the students to manage their time properly while in school, as it would pave the way for their success in life.  

The workshop organised by the School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Cape Coast aimed to bring about a significant positive change in the students’ attitude towards time management through targeted activities.

Conducted in collaboration with the Department of Mental Health, the event, therefore, sought to instill proper time management skills in students and challenge them to discard the mentality of ‘Ghana Man Time’ (Ghanaians’ own time) before they transition into the world of work. 

Report by Pastor Ernest Perbi-Asare

THE LANGUAGE OF THE SPIRIT web

The Language Of The Spirit

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According to the Oxford Dictionary, language is the primary method of human communication, involving structured and conventional words conveyed through speech, writing, or gesture. With around 7,000 languages worldwide, Africa is estimated to have 1,500-2,000. Among the most widely spoken languages are English, Chinese, French, and Spanish, to name a few. The Bible was written in three languages: Aramaic, Hebrew, and Greek. In Ghana, English and Akan are the two most common languages.

In the account of Genesis 11:1, 5, the entire world spoke a single language until God intervened and confused their speech, as mentioned in Genesis 11:7b. This confusion resulted from their disobedience and excessive desire for fame. However, all glory belongs to the Lord. Instead of dispersing as instructed in Genesis 1:28, they gathered to build a tower for their prize. God responded with immediate judgment, confusing their language and causing them to scatter. This incident resulted in the diversification and evolution of languages.

Nevertheless, just as a good parent seeks to restore their wayward child, God had the plan to restore humanity to Himself through His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ (John 3:16). As part of God’s restoration agenda, a new language was given to the community of believers known as “The Kingdom of God” (John 3:5). This language served to identify and endorse their unique identity and, more importantly, as a means of communication by the Spirit. It is worth noting that language serves as an identity for groups with common ancestry. In advance, the Lord announced through the prophet Zephaniah that a day would come when He would purify the speech of humanity to enable them to speak together (Zephaniah 3:9). This prophecy was fulfilled on the day of Pentecost following Christ’s ascension, as described by the prophet Joel in Joel 2:28. Theological debates have arisen. Still, one undeniable fact remains: a NEW LANGUAGE was spoken on the day of Pentecost. This language, known as the language of the Spirit or “tongues speaking” in the New Testament, was added to the existing languages.

The manifestation of the Spirit language accompanied the arrival of the Holy Spirit. To dispel any doubts or discontinuity regarding this gift, the author of the book of Acts extensively described how early Christians received and spoke in the language of the Spirit (Acts 2:1-4, 37-39, 10:45-46, 19:6). This paradigm shift carries various theological implications. Firstly, it fulfils God’s promise to restore humanity to Himself. God gave this language as a means of communication within His Kingdom. As a gift to those who believe in Jesus (Acts 2:38). Therefore, every born-again Christian has the potential to speak this new language, provided they believe in it.

The language of the Spirit serves as a sign to both unbelievers and believers, indicating the presence of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s life. It is called baptism in the Holy Spirit, and Jesus Himself is the agent of this baptism (Matthew 3:12). Speaking in the language of the Spirit is evidence of the fulfilment of God’s promise in a believer’s life (Mark 16:17).

Praying in the language of the Spirit grants the believer the ability to speak mysteries (1 Corinthians 14:2). The human mind and spirit have limited understanding, unable to know the future. The natural mind tends to be self-centred and makes mistakes when asking God to supply their needs. However, the pure spirit and mind pray according to the will of God (Romans 8:26). For instance, intercessory prayer is a priority for the sanctified reason (1 Timothy 2:1-4). As you pray in the Spirit, the Spirit of God searches and knows every aspect of your life, appropriating your words spoken through His language. Moreover, speaking in tongues allows the believer to encrypt their requests from the devil and human understanding.

The language of the Spirit serves as the foundation for the operation of the gifts of the Spirit. Only when the baptism of the Holy Spirit was received on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4) did advantage-sifts of the Spirit manifest widely among believers. Speaking in tongues complements vocal gifts such as prophecy, speaking in diverse tongues, and interpreting tongues. Essentially, the language of the Spirit provides a gateway for other spiritual gifts to operate because as you pray in tongues, your requests are synchronised with God’s will. Therefore, God intends and desires every believer to work in the gifts of the Holy Spirit (Joel 2:28, Luke 24:49).

The language of the Spirit enables fervent and earnest prayer. After receiving the baptism of the Holy Spirit, with the initial evidence of speaking in tongues, prayer became a way of life for the apostles and disciples in the early church (Acts 2:42, 6:6). No one can pray more than they are anointed to pray. Our ability to pray fervently relies on the assistance of the Holy Spirit (Romans 8:26). Furthermore, speaking in tongues allows you to pray and praise with your human spirit (1 Corinthians 14:14, 15). The human mind cannot comprehend the power of speaking the language of the Spirit. It is important to note that, like any language, consistently praying in tongues helps fully explore its potential.

In conclusion, God expects believers in the New Covenant through Christ to operate in the supernatural. The accounts in Acts 2, particularly the day of Pentecost, describe the magical atmosphere that should be associated with the church. The activities transcend the natural mind. Approaching the Bible with common sense alone would be a grave error. The baptism in the Holy Spirit, accompanied by signs and wonders, including speaking in tongues, is a God-ordained path divinely orchestrated for the church to manifest until the second coming of Christ. Believe in God’s promises and act in faith to receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit and begin speaking in tongues, unleashing your full potential as a child of God. On the day of Pentecost, during the church’s inauguration, God, through Christ, gave the church a new language: the language of the Spirit, empowering believers to do great things.

Written by Pastor George Osei Bonsu (Assin Akrofuom District)

The Strength of a leader web

The Strength Of Youth & The Wisdom Of The Old: Great Tools For Successful Leadership

by with No Comment ArticlesTop StoriesYouth Ministry

Throughout history, leaders have relied on their wisdom and strength to achieve their goals. Combining experience and fresh perspectives has proven to be a powerful tool for successful leadership. Youth bring strength, energy, creativity, and a willingness to take risks, while the elderly offer wisdom, counsel, guidance, and a deep understanding of the world.

Leadership is the ability to combine strength and wisdom to achieve desired results. Strength is the capacity or willingness to withstand great force or pressure through zeal or passion, while wisdom is the quality of having experience, knowledge, guidance, and counsel. From a clear perspective, the strength of youth brings energy, passion, and innovation to leadership. Young leaders are often bold, creative, and unafraid to take risks, which are essential qualities for success in today’s fast-paced, rapidly changing world. Together, they form a formidable team that can overcome even the most daunting challenges.

As written in the book of Ecclesiastes, “Remember your Creator in the days of your youth, before the days of trouble come and the years approach when you will say, ‘I find no pleasure in them'” (Ecclesiastes 12:1). This verse emphasises the importance of utilising the strength of youth while acknowledging the fleeting nature of time. It is crucial to invest in the younger generation and empower them to lead, as they will be the ones to carry the torch forward. Youths are people with passion and a readiness to take action. The challenge lies in whether we will use their strength to benefit the church or the world. However, the value of the elderly should not be underestimated.

As stated in Proverbs, “Gray hair is a crown of splendour; it is attained in the way of righteousness” (Proverbs 16:31). This highlights the honour and respect that should be given to those who have lived long and fruitful lives. Their experiences, knowledge, and wisdom are invaluable assets that can guide and mentor the younger generation. The strength of youth needs nurturing and coaching for maximum impact.

For this reason, leadership is a critical aspect of any organisation, whether it is a business, non-profit, or religious institution. Great leaders possess unique qualities, including strength, wisdom, and vision. Proverbs 20:29 states, “The glory of young men is their strength, but the splendour of old men is their grey hair.” From this scripture, the question arises about who makes the best leaders. Is it the young, with their energy and fresh ideas, or the old, with their experience and wisdom? The answer is simple: the strength of the youth and the wisdom of the elderly are great tools for successful leadership.

Young people are valuable assets in any organisation. They bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and boundless energy to the table. In the Bible, youth are often recognised as a source of strength and vitality. Ecclesiastes 11:9 also says, “Rejoice, young man, during your childhood, and let your heart be pleasant during the days of young manhood. And follow the impulses of your heart and the desires of your eyes. Yet know that God will judge you for all these things.” This verse acknowledges the youthful exuberance and encourages young people to pursue their passions while recognising the need for accountability.

The Church of Pentecost recognises the strength of youth in leadership. The operational structure of the church encourages young people to take up leadership roles and responsibilities within the church and society. The church believes that young people can make a positive impact and contribute to the growth and development of their communities. In doing so, they become good leaders as they grow older, gaining experience and appreciating what the youth bring to the table when they are involved in leadership.

Additionally, the Bible teaches that young leaders can inspire others. 1 Timothy 4:12 says, “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity.” This verse encourages young leaders to set a positive example for others and to demonstrate their leadership potential.

Furthermore, the Bible teaches that older leaders can be excellent mentors. Titus 2:2-3 reads, “Older men are to be sober-minded, dignified, self-controlled, sound in faith, in love, and in steadfastness. Older women, likewise, are to be reverent in behaviour, not slanderers or slaves to much wine. They are to teach what is good.” This verse highlights the importance of older leaders in mentoring and teaching younger leaders. Effective leadership requires a balance of the strength of youth and the wisdom of the elderly. Young leaders bring fresh ideas, boundless energy, and inspiration, while older leaders bring experience, wisdom, and mentorship. Combining these two elements creates a powerful leadership dynamic that can guide organisations to success.

In conclusion, successful leadership requires both the strength of youth and the wisdom of the elderly. The Bible teaches that both the young and old have unique qualities to offer in leadership. Young leaders bring enthusiasm, creativity, and innovation, while older leaders bring experience, wisdom, and mentorship. By working together, they can create a powerful leadership dynamic that can guide organisations to success. As Psalm 71:18 says, “Even when I am old and grey, do not forsake me, my God, till I declare your power to the next generation, your mighty acts to all who are to come.” Both age groups have their unique strengths and contributions to make, and it is essential to recognise and harness them. As Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 says, “Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labour. If either of them falls, one can help the other up. But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up. Also, if two lie down together, they will keep warm. But how can one keep warm alone?” Let us embrace the strength of the youth and the wisdom of the elderly in leadership and work together towards a better future. If we truly aim to bridge the generational gap in leadership, we need to blend the young and the old in leadership, utilising the strength of the youth while imparting the lessons learned through experience.

Written by P/Overseer Enoch Okain

Groom A Teen Today, Raise A Leader For Tomorrow

Groom A Teen Today, Raise A Leader For Tomorrow

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One delightful observation I made during the just-ended National Youth Ministry Week celebration of The Church of Pentecost (CoP) was the active involvement of the teens. Watching videos and seeing pictures from various assemblies across the nation filled me with excitement.

I remember telling a colleague youth ministry leader that if we had this level of engagement when we were growing up, many of our teens would have been properly grounded in Christ and the Church and would have played active roles at various levels in the church. In the past, there was no proper structure established to effectively coordinate the activities of teens in the CoP. If you were fortunate as a teen to find yourself in an assembly with leaders who believed in the potential of teens, then you were blessed. I count myself as one of those teens who, while growing up, was fortunate to have leaders who gave us room to learn and grow in the faith.

I was only 17 years old when I was appointed District Secretary for the Children’s Ministry in the Elmina District of the Cape Coast Area, right after graduating from Senior High School. Again, I was appointed as the local leader for the Youth Ministry of SSNIT Flats Assembly, also in the Elmina District. At the age of 18, I was ordained as a Deacon by Apostle Kwesi Ackah Baidoo (Rtd.). The Lord made all these opportunities possible through Elders Samuel Michael Boham and Francis Freeman. They gave me many opportunities as a teen to learn, and though I made some mistakes along the way, they were very patient with me. I remember the many preaching assignments they both gave me, the opportunity to represent them at meetings, and, most importantly, how they disciplined me in love.

Around the same time that I had the humble privilege of serving the Lord and His church in these capacities, many of my peers in other assemblies in the same district were struggling to fit into the church. Some, out of frustration, left the church. Those who stayed did so only because their parents were active members and could not leave, but their visible frustration was evident. The truth is, some of these teenagers in other districts were far more talented than me, but they simply did not have the opportunities I had.

In 2015, I was appointed as the District Youth Ministry Leader for Abossey Okai Worship Centre. One of the key areas I focused on as a leader was the Ministry to Teens. These teens became like family to me and my team. We were very intentional in how we nurtured them, providing them with opportunities to express themselves and grow both in the Lord and in the church. Today, as I reflect, I see many of them doing remarkable things in the house of the Lord, and I bless God for their lives.

In January 2023, I was reviewed as the Youth Ministry Leader, and the young man who succeeded me, Deacon Philemon Otoo, happened to be one of my students in the teens class. Prior to becoming the District Leader, he served as the PENSA President for the Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology (KNUST). During the recent Youth Week, I witnessed how the Lord used this young man, and I was amazed at how he led both the young and the old to observe the week successfully.

I have witnessed firsthand what the Lord can do with teens when given the opportunity. I am a living testimony, just like Philemon, my predecessor. In the COP, as of December 2022, we had 762,190 teens in Ghana alone. The decision by the church’s leadership to relaunch the Ministry to Teens is a very strategic one. What I witnessed during the National Youth Ministry Week is enough to demonstrate that when our teens are provided with the right opportunities and an enabling environment, they can serve the purpose of God in their generation exceptionally well.

Written by Elder Yaw Asamoah Akowuah (Ministry to Teens Coordinator, Kaneshie Area)