A Nigerian clergyman has urged citizens, especially Christians, to respect and pray for both their spiritual and political leaders, warning that all leaders will eventually give an account of their stewardship before God.
Dr Joseph Ushie, Chaplain of the Chapel of Redemption at the University of Calabar, made the call during a sermon he delivered at a Thanksgiving Service organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Cross River State Council, to mark the end of their week long media celebration.
Dr Ushie cautioned worshippers against antagonizing or mobilizing opposition against their leaders, stressing that some of these leaders could be divinely positioned as “destiny helpers”;; or holders of keys to their blessings.
“It is troubling to see members of churches despise their pastors, or citizens trying to bring down their leaders,”;; he said.
“Many of these pastors, for instance, are posted to different congregations with unique spiritual packages meant for members. When they are denied the respect due to them, it becomes difficult for them to release those blessings.”;;
The clergyman also expressed concern over the rising levels of corruption in government, schools, and other institutions.
He warned that financial misconduct by those in authority could attract dire consequences, citing relevant Bible passages to support his message.
In his admonition to fellow ministers of the gospel, Dr Ushie warned clergy to avoid tampering with church funds, noting that such actions come with severe spiritual repercussions.
