Assistant Youth Officer, CAC Worldwide, Pastor Simone O. Oke
By 'Gbenga Bankole
The Assistant Youth Officer, Christ Apostolic Church, Worldwide, Pastor Simone O. Oke has said the greatest quest that man could ever occupy himself with is the pursuit of God and His presence.
Pastor Oke who stated this while ministering on the topic "The Quest for God in True Communion" at 2021 International Youth Conference, Ikeji I Conference Centre, Odubanjo Region, told the youths that the only thing that will ever make a difference in them will be the presence of God in their lives.
He told them that:"until you know God as your God, you cannot be strong and do exploit for Him."
On the requirements to obtain the presence of God, Pastor Oke said one need to be determined, disciplined and develop an unsatisfiable desire for Him above all things.
He further said that;"an intimate 'knowning' involves a change of life. It involves soaking in God's word to us, printed in the Bible. It involves prayer, listening to God, who is present with us. It means cultivating community with other believers. It means coming to the startling realisation that God's purpose for you form part of His plan for the world. It requires great efforts on the part of Christian Youth. It requires overcoming the many obstacles of the flesh and our weaknesses. The Bible describes the Christian life as a journey in which we are Pilgrims just passing through this world. God's plan for our lives will lead us through many twists and turns as we seek to see the face of God (1 Corinthians 3:18)."
According to him, Christian life is meant to be marked by union with God, adding that by the powerful sacrifice of Jesus, the Holy Spirit now dwells within us longing to make His nearness known.