‘Don’t Let Your Challenges Overwhelm Your Faith,’ Methodist Bishop Tells Youths

 

By Abel Chigozie, 

The Bishop of the Methodist Church Nigeria, Diocese of Imesi-Ile, Rt. Rev. Rufus O. Atolaye, has urged young people to remain steadfast in their faith and not allow economic and social challenges to weaken their confidence in God.

Atolaye made the call during the 8th Annual Convention of the Methodist Youth Fellowship, Diocese of Imesi-Ile, held at Methodist Church Nigeria, Ijana Circuit, Imesi-Ile, from September 17 to 20, 2026.

The convention was themed “The Battle Is the Lord’s,” drawn from 1 Samuel 17, while the broader theme was “I Will Fight for You,” from Exodus 14:14.

Addressing the youths, the Bishop identified unemployment, financial difficulties, academic pressures, insecurity, family challenges and uncertainty about the future as some of the issues confronting young Nigerians.

Drawing from the biblical account of David and Goliath, Atolaye encouraged the youths not to measure their future solely by the size of the challenges before them.

He urged them to trust God, remain prayerful and resist the temptation to abandon their faith because of difficult circumstances.

The Bishop also cautioned the youths against immorality, dishonesty, addiction and other behaviours that could negatively affect their lives and future.

He encouraged participants to make the convention an opportunity for spiritual renewal, prayer, learning and building godly relationships, urging them to return to their respective churches with renewed faith and commitment to Christian service.

Also speaking at the convention, the President of the Methodist Youth Fellowship, Diocese of Imesi-Ile, Amb. Ayodele Emmanuel Adekusibe, challenged young people to become more actively involved in Church leadership.

Adekusibe urged youths not to withdraw from the Church because of perceived shortcomings but to take up responsibilities and contribute to building the institution they want.

He encouraged young people to serve as church stewards, ushers, Bible study teachers, evangelism officers, children’s superintendents, lay preachers and diocesan officers.

Rather than asking what the Church had done for them, he urged youths to also consider what they could contribute to its growth.

He expressed the hope that the fellowship would eventually become financially strong enough to organise conventions without requiring registration fees from delegates.

The four-day convention brought together Methodist youths, ministers, church leaders and delegates from across the Diocese of Imesi-Ile for worship, teachings, leadership engagement and fellowship under the theme, “The Battle Is the Lord’s.”