Rev. Idowu's Sermon in Abuja: A Deep Dive into "Planted By The Waters"

Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon

The first Sunday of August 2025 marked a spiritually enriching Communion Service at the Foursquare Gospel Church, Wuse District Headquarters, Abuja. The atmosphere was charged with divine presence as congregants were led into a profound worship experience by the church choir. The service mirrored the biblical account in Acts 3:6-7, where collective faith and focused hearts ushered in God’s glory, setting the stage for a transformative encounter.

The highlight of the service was the sermon titled "Planted By The Waters," delivered by Rev. Dr. Babatunde Idowu, the Wuse District Overseer. Drawing from Psalms 1:1-6 and 21:23-1-3, Rev. Idowu explored the spiritual significance of water as a source of life, renewal, and divine sustenance. His message echoed deeply, offering practical insights for living a purpose-driven life rooted in God’s promises.

Rev. Idowu began by defining planting as an intentional act of growth and expansion. Referencing Luke 8:5, he emphasized that purposeful planting yields fruitful results. He urged congregants to be mindful of the seeds they sow, as intention determines the outcome. Citing Matthew 8:13, he warned that seeds planted without alignment with God’s will could bear undesirable fruit. The message was clear: spiritual growth requires deliberate effort and alignment with divine principles.

The Essence of Waters: Purity and Renewal:
The sermon then turned to the symbolic and practical significance of water in the Bible. Rev. Idowu highlighted water’s purifying and renewing qualities, drawing from Ephesians 5:25-26, where water is likened to Christ’s cleansing power. He also referenced Psalm 23:3 and John 4:14, illustrating how water sustains life, both physically and spiritually. The congregation was reminded that just as water quenches physical thirst, a relationship with God satisfies the soul’s deepest longings.

Rev. Idowu further explored the metaphor of “living water” in John 7:37-39, where Jesus speaks of the Holy Spirit as a source of eternal life. He connected this to Genesis 27:27-29 and Deuteronomy 33:28, which depict dew as a symbol of divine favor and prosperity. Hosea 14:4-7 was also cited, promising stability and beauty to those deeply rooted in God, likening their flourishing to the renowned wine of Lebanon.

Blessings through Divine Promises:
The sermon concluded with a powerful reminder of God’s promises. Rev. Idowu invoked Isaiah 3:10, assuring the righteous of their well-being, and Isaiah 43:18-19, encouraging believers to embrace new beginnings as God makes a way in the wilderness. He also referenced Isaiah 61:3, which promises beauty for ashes, urging congregants to live lives filled with joy and strength from the Lord.

The service ended with fervent prayers, leaving attendees spiritually refreshed and inspired. Rev. Idowu’s message was a clarion call to live intentionally, to be “planted by the waters” of God’s eternal promises, and to draw from the life-giving sustenance of His Word.

Impact and Reflection:
The sermon left a lasting impression on the congregation, challenging them to evaluate their spiritual roots and align their lives with God’s purpose. Rev. Idowu’s deep dive into the theme of being “planted by the waters” not only provided biblical insights but also practical applications for daily living. The service was a proof to the transformative power of God’s Word, leaving attendees empowered to live lives of purpose, purity, and divine connection.

In a world often characterized by chaos and uncertainty, Rev. Idowu’s message offered a refreshing reminder of the stability and flourishing that comes from being deeply rooted in God. As congregants departed, they carried with them the assurance of God’s promises and the inspiration to live as trees planted by the waters, bearing fruit in every season.

Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon is a freelance writer and Christian educator based in Abuja, Nigeria, with a passion for documenting faith-based initiatives and their impact on communities.