In a bold move, Pastor David Ibiyeomie, the founder of Salvation Ministries in Port Harcourt, has instructed married couples to abstain from physical intimacy for 21 days. This directive comes as part of a congregation-wide prayer and fasting initiative that begins on January 8. Ibiyeomie cites the Bible, specifically 1 Corinthians 7:5, to emphasize the importance of abstinence during this spiritual period, reminding members that such a practice will not harm them.
During the first Sunday service of the year, Ibiyeomie addressed the congregation, highlighting the significance of focusing on spiritual matters rather than physical desires. He reassured couples that this abstinence is only temporary, aiming to deepen their spiritual connection with God through focused prayer and fasting. The pastor's message encourages members to prioritize their faith above physical needs for the next three weeks.
As part of his teachings, Ibiyeomie warned against the misconception that one can break their fast with food and sexual relations. He urged couples to resist the urge to satisfy their physical desires during this time, reinforcing the biblical principle of abstinence during fasting. The pastor's passionate approach seeks to guide his congregation through this spiritual journey effectively.
Pastor Ibiyeomie's Biblical Foundation for Abstinence
Pastor Ibiyeomie firmly believes that abstaining from sexual relations during fasting is a biblically endorsed practice. He references 1 Corinthians 7:5, which encourages spouses to engage in abstinence for the sake of prayer. By doing so, he aims to instill discipline and focus within the congregation, guiding them towards a deeper relationship with God.
In his sermon, Ibiyeomie emphasized that abstinence is not detrimental but rather beneficial for spiritual growth. He reassured couples that they will not suffer from this temporary separation, stating, "Twenty-one days ‘no go kill you!’" His words aim to uplift and motivate the congregation, reassuring them of the rewards that come from prioritizing their spiritual lives over physical indulgences.
Moreover, Ibiyeomie addressed concerns raised by some couples who equate breaking their fast with food to physical intimacy. He encouraged them to understand that spiritual commitments should take precedence over physical cravings, reminding them that their focus during this period should be on prayer and seeking God's guidance.
Community Response and Support
The congregation of Salvation Ministries has received this directive with mixed feelings. Some couples express understanding and commitment to the spiritual goal, while others find it challenging to navigate the temporary abstinence. The pastor's leadership seeks to foster a supportive environment, encouraging open discussions about the challenges couples may face during this period.
To aid in this journey, the church has organized support groups for married couples, providing a platform for sharing experiences and strategies to maintain focus on spiritual growth. These group meetings encourage communication and bonding through shared faith, helping couples bond on a deeper level while adhering to the fasting guidelines.
Ultimately, the goal is to strengthen not only individual faith but also the collective bond of the church community. By engaging in prayer and reflection together, the congregation hopes to emerge from the fasting period rejuvenated and spiritually enriched.
Peter Obi's Meeting with Pastor Ibiyeomie
Recently, Peter Obi, the presidential candidate of the Labour Party, expressed his gratitude for meeting with Pastor David Ibiyeomie. The encounter provided Obi with insights into Ibiyeomie's teachings on godliness, diligence, and productivity, which align with values he advocates for in his political career.
Through his social media platforms, Obi shared that it was a privilege to absorb the wisdom shared during the meeting. He highlighted the importance of spiritual guidance in leadership and how Ibiyeomie's teachings can serve as a model for personal and political integrity.
This meeting underscores the intersection of faith and politics in Nigeria, where leaders often seek counsel from prominent religious figures to inspire their vision and actions. Obi's appreciation of Ibiyeomie's teachings reflects the broader trend of integrating spiritual principles into leadership practices.
