One of the leading supporters of the democratic movement in Ukraine was and is Pastor Sunday Adelaja of the Embassy of the Blessed Kingdom of God for All Nations. The Nigerian-born, Soviet-educated Adelaja has had a tremendous impact in his country and has been involved in many of the debates, struggles, and controversies of the founding of a new nation. The New York Times has published a fuller description of his ministry in 2011.
He and his congregation could see the missile strikes that hit the Kiev area. He remains in the city, but as he is probably on a list of undesirables to the Russian government, he and his family may have to go into hiding.
Here is Pastor Adelaja’s encouragement to his congregation and to you:
The invasion of the Russian army into the territory of Ukraine has begun. The church prayed, we prayed and believed that this would not happen.
But the fact remains, it has already begun. We do not know to what extent this will reach. As the senior pastor of the church, I have advised all brothers and sisters to remain calm and to obey the instructions that the government and authorities give us.
In addition, those who have the opportunity to hide and secure themselves in safer places should take advantage of this. Yes, we pray, but in spite of prayers, we must do what is necessary to save and preserve ourselves. We know folk wisdom: God saves the safe.
We pray, we trust the Lord, but we also need to act.
First of all, it is necessary to provide security, protection, and everything necessary for our children, for our women, and our families. We believe and hope that the situation in Ukraine will normalize.
But more than physical security, one must preserve oneself before God and take refuge in God. We all know the 90th psalm. I think that now is the best and most necessary time to take advantage of it and live it.
“He who dwells under the roof of the Most High under the shadow of the Almighty rests, says to the Lord: “My refuge and my protection, my God, in whom I trust! safe; his shield and fence are his truth” (Psalm 90:1-4).
In addition to Psalm 90, there are several other Scriptures that I would like to offer you during this difficult time. I am sure that peace in the heart is the best security. If we can keep our hearts in peace and quiet, then no threat from outside will overtake us and destroy us. The words of our Lord Jesus confirm this.
“I have said this to you so that you may have peace in Me. In the world you will have sorrow, but be of good cheer: I have conquered the world.”
John. 16:33 says there will be all sorts of catastrophes and troubles in the world, but we have peace in Christ. If we can see ourselves spiritually in Christ, abide in Christ, then we will be safe. “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world, you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
“I lie down calmly and sleep, for You, Lord, alone allow me to live in safety.”
Psalm 4:9 also says that the Lord will keep us safe and at peace at all times.
Let’s believe these Scriptures, spiritually move ourselves to a place of protection and safety in Christ Jesus. Imagine yourself in Christ, imagine that you are hidden in Christ Jesus.
“Peace I leave you, My peace I give you; not as the world gives, I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.”
John. 14:27 speaks of keeping ourselves in the world, despite all the cataclysms around us.
Personally, I am in Kiev now. Perhaps, in my situation, it was worth leaving somewhere, but I am still in Kiev and will look at the situation.
I think there is probably a list of influential people in Ukraine, especially those who are under Russian sanctions or they are persona non grata. You may remember that I myself have been persona non grata in Russia since 2005. If the Russian army takes power in Kiev, then I understand what can happen. But just so you know, I’m here for now.
Me and pastor Bose, we are here, staying with the people. At the same time, I am aware that if there is an escalation of what is happening or things worsen, then most likely some kind of decision will have to be made. I advise the same to the people of our church, so that they will be ready and look for ways and opportunities to protect themselves, especially their families.
I bless you! With the peace of God!
Pastor Sunday Adelaja
