As the world celebrates Christmas, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) in Oyo State on Sunday urged governments at all levels and leaders to lead with the fear of God.
The chairman, Apostle Joshua Akinyemiju gave the advice in his Christmas message issued in Ibadan.
Akinyemiju urged politicians and leaders to be God-fearing.
He charged them to always remember that there would be a day of reckoning when everyone would stand before the judgement throne of God as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:10 in the Holy Bible.
Corinthians 5:10 states that: “for we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ; that every one may receive the things done in his body, according to that he hath done, whether it be good or bad.’’
Akinyemiju stated that: “leaders should be readily disposed to helping the less-privileged in their constituencies.
“Those in position of authority should take justice and fairness as their manta and watchword.
“They must ensure that the blood of their constituents is not shed because of their ambition.
“They should know that no one can receive anything except it be given him from heaven as stated in John 3:27 in the Holy Bible,’’ he added.
John 3:27 states that “A person cannot receive even one thing unless it is given him from heaven.’’
Akinyemiju stated that every politician must know that their personal relationship with God matters a lot in the course of realising their dreams.
“As we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ, may we begin to see the world in the light of the knowledge and understanding the Lord gave us in Jesus name,’’ he added.
According to him, Christmas is celebrated to commemorate the birth of Jesus Christ and symbolises the truth of spiritual life.
“At the time Jesus Christ came, the world was full of hatred, greed, ignorance and hypocrisy. Naturally, His birth transformed the lives of the people.
“He taught people the necessity of spirituality, holiness, devotion and how all these could change their lives for the better.
“Christmas shows us that a life full of knowledge and light can take over the darkness spread in all corners of the world.
“Christmas is a blessed time for all Christians to get together and celebrate the birth of God’s only begotten Son,’’ he also stated.
Christian families should pray together at Christmas; they should go to church, pray and worship God, he admonished.
“It is a season to show and share love among families, friends and neighbours, the entire Christian world should be filled with joy and gladness,’’ Akinyemiju stressed.
