Port Harcourt, Nigeria – In a powerful message during a special Solemn Women Thanksgiving Service, Mrs Hope Mathew Eleojoh James of Solemn Faith International Church emphatically declared that “You cannot carry God’s glory and be hidden.”
The event, held at the church’s headquarters located at Road 21, Plot 14, Federal Housing Estate, Woji, Port Harcourt, was marked by fervent worship, celebration, and a passionate sermon titled “See His Glory.”
Drawing her text from Psalms 97:1-6 and Romans 8:18-19, Pastor Hope Mathew expounded on the profound nature and impact of God’s glory.
She described glory as the very wonder, beauty, and tangible presence of God.
Referencing various scriptural passages including Psalm 96:3, Psalm 103:7, and Exodus 33, she emphasized that the glory of God is not merely a spiritual concept but a visible and transformational reality that believers are called to carry.
Pastor Mathew highlighted that the glory of God reveals His majesty and power, often expressed in supernatural ways. She reminded the congregation that when God’s glory is present, it brings with it transformation, revelation, and divine manifestation.
According to her, this glory makes believers resemble God in character, grants access to His voice, and brings about divine exemption and the power to overcome darkness.
She also spoke about how to access this glory, underscoring the importance of salvation, immersion in the Word of God, and a lifestyle of fasting, prayer, praise, and worship. “The Holy Spirit,” she said, “is a vital channel through which God’s glory is revealed to His people.” Using scriptures from Exodus 15, Proverbs 18, and Isaiah 43, Pastor Mathew showed that encountering God’s glory demands intentionality and dedication.
One of the most striking parts of her message came when she introduced what she called “the four powerful D’s” that can bring down God’s glory upon a person’s life: a desperate desire to see His glory, daily declaration of His Word, diligent service, and sacrificial living. Quoting examples from the lives of biblical figures like Moses and Solomon, she pointed out that such commitment provokes a divine response.
Concluding her sermon, Pastor Hope Mathew reiterated that “Glory is all of God,” referencing Psalm 114:7, and declared again with conviction, “You cannot carry God’s glory and be hidden.” Her message left the congregation stirred and inspired to pursue a deeper encounter with God’s presence.
The Solemn Women Thanksgiving Service was a vibrant celebration of faith, with women from across Port Harcourt and beyond gathering to give thanks, worship, and receive spiritual impartation.
Earlier, in a powerful sermon delivered by the General overseer, Pastor Mathew Ele-Ojo James, he declared that “sickness is an enemy of fruitfulness.”
Speaking to the congregation during the church service at the church’s location on Road 21, Plot 14, Federal Housing Estate, Woji, Port Harcourt, Pastor Mathew emphasized the critical importance of health and vitality in living a life of purpose and abundance.
The sermon, titled “The Necessity of Health and Vitality Pt. 2,” was based on Exodus 15:26, where the Lord promises to be the healer of His people.
Pastor Mathew explained that good health is essential not only for personal well-being but also for fulfilling God’s purpose.
He highlighted that health enables one to enjoy God’s favor, which is crucial for every area of life.
As he referenced scriptures such as 1 Kings 1:1-8, Psalm 30:5, and Job 10:12, Pastor Mathew pointed out that without health, it becomes difficult to experience divine blessings and favor.
He also spoke on how health is foundational to fruitfulness, a recurring theme throughout the Bible.
Drawing from Genesis 1:28, he stressed that good health is required for people to multiply, replenish, and be fruitful in all aspects of their lives.
The pastor emphasized that only when we are healthy can we fully render help and serve others effectively, referencing 1 Samuel 30:8-11, which tells the story of David’s pursuit of the Amalekites.
Pastor Mathew then transitioned to discussing how to access divine health. He stressed the importance of walking in genuine love and practicing advanced forgiveness.
According to him, a heart full of love and free from unforgiveness creates an environment conducive to health.
He drew inspiration from passages such as Romans 12:9-10 and Mark 11:24-26, explaining that forgiveness is not just a spiritual duty but also a key factor in the healing process.
The pastor also emphasized the power of positive confession, quoting scriptures like Joel 3:10 and Job 22:28-29.
He explained that one’s words have the power to bring healing and solutions to life’s challenges, including health struggles.
Pastor Mathew wrapped up his sermon with a series of impactful quotes, urging the congregation to take sickness seriously. “When health is challenged or under attack, everything will experience stagnation,” he said.
He went on to assert that “if favor must be enjoyed, health must be prioritized.” He stressed that “it takes a healthy person to enjoy favor” and that “sickness is an enemy of fruitfulness.”
According to the pastor, a life free from sickness is a life that can be fully fruitful, and the key to unlocking fruitfulness is in addressing and overcoming health challenges.
He also shared that a person’s ability to assist others is hindered by illness, and that “the arrest of sickness is the release of fruitfulness.” Pastor Mathew concluded with a reminder that when one’s health is under attack, their divine helpers may also be affected, leading to a lack of support.
He encouraged the congregation to cultivate kindness and affection, as these help prevent affliction, and to continue practicing forgiveness as a means of ensuring long-term health and vitality.
The message left a deep impact on the congregation, with many reflecting on how their own health impacts not only their personal lives but their ability to fulfill God’s calling and serve others.
