Free from Envy, Focused on Progress: Apostle Achudume's Tells Nigerians

The lead cleric of Victory Life Bible Church International, Apostle Lawrence Achudume, has called on Nigerians to reject envy and jealousy, which he described as major hindrances to progress and development in the country. 

Speaking at the one-year remembrance of his late wife, Reverend Fola Achudume, held at Victory Cathedral, Ajebo road Abeokuta, Apostle Achudume emphasized that these negative emotions can lead to strife, conflict, resentment, and stagnation.

"Envy and jealousy can breed discord, discouragement, and bitterness in our lives," he said. "When we allow these emotions to consume us, we become embroiled in conflicts and struggles that can hinder our progress and development."

 Apostle Achudume noted that envy and jealousy can manifest in various ways, including anger, bitterness, and resentment towards others who may be more successful or prosperous.

"These emotions can lead to strife and conflict, not just within ourselves, but also with others," he said. 

According to him, God's grace is a gift that enables individuals to achieve their purpose. "Grace confirms your success," he declared. 

Apostle Achudume also urged Nigerians to stay in their lane and trust in God's plan, noting that "Sometimes, God allows pains and challenges because He wants to do better things in our lives," he said. 

Emphasising the importance of being rooted in love and knowing the love of Christ, which passes knowledge, he quoted scriptures

"What shall separate us from the love of God? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?... Nay, in all these things, we are more than conquerors through him that loved us. For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord." (Romans 8:35-39). 

He encouraged the people to walk in confidence and carry the shield of grace, knowing that they are graced to succeed, prosper, and overcome challenges.

In the same vein, Royal Ladies International, a non-governmental organization founded by Reverend Fola Achudume at its annual program heralding the remembrance and thanksgiving service, put together an empowerment programme where many   people,majorly  the elderly  and widows received various forms of support, including startup capital to launch their own businesses, kitchen utensils, clothing items, food stuffs, and other essential goods. Some beneficiaries were given "shop for free" opportunities, where they received goods without any cost.

During the programme tagged "All Women Summit" with the theme "Limitless," Pastor Dolapo Adelakun of Victory International Church, Ibadan emphasized the need for women not to be limited by age, marriage, status, or financial circumstances in achieving their potentials. "Women should strive to be limitless and be open to development," she said, adding that they should also aim to be good homemakers.

As part of the one-year thanksgiving service, the mausoleum where Reverend Fola Achudume was laid to rest was opened for public view after  Apostle Lawrence Achudume led the church in praising God for his late wife's life and legacy.

 "Toluwani Sing", a renowned gospel artist, ministered at the service, leading the congregation in vibrant praise and worship, after being invited reportedly inspired by a dream where Reverend Fola was seen dancing to his music.