Identity in Christ, Not Culture, Is the Path to Flourishing, Foursquare Teens Told
Dr. Afolabi Olajuwon
Teenagers have been challenged to resist the growing pressure to define success by wealth, social status and material possessions, and instead build their identity, purpose and future on a personal relationship with God.
The charge was delivered by Bro. Pelumi Tolulope Otuneye during the grand finale of the Teens Week Sunday, July 26, 2026 at Foursquare Gospel Church, Wuse District Headquarters, Abuja, where he preached on the theme, "How to Flourish in a Gen Z World."
Drawing his principal text from Psalm 92:12–13, Otuneye reminded the congregation that genuine flourishing is not measured by worldly achievements but by spiritual rootedness.
"The righteous shall flourish like the palm tree; he shall grow like a cedar in Lebanon. Those who are planted in the house of the Lord shall flourish in the courts of our God."
He observed that contemporary society, particularly among young people, often equates success with financial prosperity, luxury, and social influence. While such aspirations are common, he stressed that Scripture presents a higher and more enduring standard of success, one rooted in God.
According to him, flourishing means more than outward accomplishment; it signifies growth, fruitfulness, and the fulfilment of God's purpose for one's life. He described it as the gradual unfolding of a life anchored in Christ, much like a seed that grows into a mature and fruitful tree.
Addressing one of the greatest challenges confronting today's youth, Otuneye identified the crisis of identity as a major obstacle to genuine fulfilment. He lamented that many young people seek validation from peers and social media rather than from their Creator.
"Our identity is found in Christ," he declared, reminding the teenagers that believers are called to live as God's chosen people, reflecting His character rather than conforming to the changing values of society.
Using the analogy of an eagle raised among chickens, he illustrated how many young people unknowingly limit themselves because they fail to recognise their God-given identity and potential. Just as the eagle was created to soar despite growing up among chickens, Christians, he said, are created to rise above worldly limitations through faith in God.
Otuneye further likened the Christian journey to the life cycle of a seed, explaining that every flourishing life begins with purpose, grows through consistency, and matures through faithful obedience to God. Citing Jeremiah 29:11, he assured the congregation that God already has a divine blueprint for every individual and that discovering His purpose is the foundation of meaningful living.
He urged teenagers to cultivate a genuine relationship with God rather than merely displaying outward religious activities. According to him, true spiritual growth is sustained by prayer, fellowship with God, and consistent study of the Scriptures.
Acknowledging that the journey to success is often marked by challenges, disappointments, and setbacks, Otuneye encouraged the youths not to rely solely on their personal abilities but to depend on God's strength.
"The road to flourishing is not always easy," he said. "Failure, rejection and delays should not be seen as the end of the journey but as opportunities for growth and character development."
He also warned against unhealthy comparison with others, noting that every individual has a unique divine assignment. Comparing one's progress with another's, he explained, often leads to discouragement because God has designed each life with a distinct purpose and timetable.
He also, encouraged the congregation to emulate biblical role models whose lives reflected unyielding faith and obedience rather than pursuing the fleeting standards promoted by popular culture.
Speaking on practical habits for flourishing, Otuneye highlighted the importance of emotional resilience, disciplined time management, intentional personal development, and perseverance. He emphasised that consistency and intentionality remain indispensable virtues for anyone seeking lasting success.
He further pointed to Galatians 5:22–23, describing the fruit of the Spirit, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control, as the unmistakable evidence of a flourishing Christian life.
According to him, spiritual maturity is not measured by outward appearances but by the consistent manifestation of Christlike character in everyday living.
As he concluded, Otuneye reminded the congregation that genuine success begins with surrendering one's life completely to God. Quoting Philippians 4:13—"I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me", he affirmed that enduring strength and lasting fulfilment come only through dependence on Christ.
He urged the teenagers to remain steadfast in their faith, intentionally pursue God's purpose, and allow Him to direct every aspect of their lives.
The service ended with prayers for the teenagers, asking God to establish them in His truth, strengthen their faith, and guide them into the fulfilment of His divine purpose in an increasingly complex and fast-changing generation.
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.
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