The Venerable Folorunso OreOluwa Agbelusi

“But immediately Jesus spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.”” Matthew 14:27 NKJV

In the journey of life, fear has been a major factor that has enslaved, hindered and limited men from one generation to another. It has power than any external forces that face us spiritually and physically. It has tormented many especially in such a time like ours. We are in a very unique season across the globe. A season many get fainted and tired so quickly. It is a time many have given up and some have gone under. There is no much going on from insecurity to economic challenges to climate change and many other issues. From these, fear tends to coerce its tentacles into all aspects of man’s life. Many are afraid of taking giant steps, breaking new grounds and building on inspirations they have been empowered with to create a beautiful future because of this same monster of fear.

In the face of all these, God is present everywhere and at all times. All these issues cannot diminish God’s power, influence and promises. His Presence is always the game changer for those who know Him. As God’s greatest asset in the world we must note that we have a lot to our advantage. God has invested heavily in us. He breathed on us the breath of life to become living beings. Again in John 14:18 our Lord Jesus Christ reiterated to His disciples and by extension to us all. “I will not leave you orphans; I will come to you.” John 14:18 NKJV so we are continually blessed with His Presence.

Throughout the pages of the scriptures, God assured His people of His presence. Through a vision, God said, Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward. – Genesis 15:1. When Isaac was expelled from his land by the Philistines and forced to move from place to place, God appeared to him and reminded him, Do not be afraid, for I am with you. – Genesis 26:24. Numerous times Moses reminded the Israelites not to be afraid because God was with them and would fight for them. And after Moses’ death, God made the same commitment to Joshua as he encouraged him to be strong and courageous: “Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” Joshua 1:9

From the giants of faith in the Old Testament to the New Testament, God continuously reminded His people not to fear. When Joseph considered canceling his engagement to Mary, an angel appeared to him, telling him not to be afraid because the Child to be born is Immanuel -God with us”(Matthew 1:19-23). And in our text when the Disciples of Jesus who had been with Him for years could not recognize Him. They thought it was a ghost they saw when faced with the uncertainties on the sea, our Lord Jesus Christ spoke to them, saying, “Be of good cheer! It is I; do not be afraid.” Matthew 14:27 NKJV All these people like us faced what we can categorize as legitimate fear but God’s promise and message remained consistent. Do not be afraid, I am with you.

Beloved, The key to overcoming fear and walking in courage is resting on the pillars of the promises of God. Isaiah 41:10 communicates these promises very clearly. “Fear not, for I am with you; Be not dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you, Yes, I will help you, I will uphold you with My righteous right hand.’ In the new year 2025, rest assured that fear cannot incarcerate us when we hold unto gift of the promise of God’s abiding presence with us. God has spoken to us in the power of His Holy Spirit through our Diocesan, The Rt. Revd Dr Ifedola Senasu Okupevi and we shall see it come to pass. Remember that the same powerful, faithful, and gracious God who saved us through faith in Jesus Christ is the one walking with us every day of the year. We are not alone because He is with us. He loves us and has put everything in place for our wellbeing.

Beloved, I therefore call on you to be deliberate about appreciating Him this year for the gift of His Presence to us and we will never be put to shame in Jesus name. Amen.

Do have testimonies-filled year 2025.

Your Vicar, Brother, Friend and Archdeacon of Ikoyi,
The Venerable Folorunso OreOluwa Agbelusi