A day of worship, wisdom and transformation
‘MANTŠANG KHUTLISI
MASERU – Scripture Union held a three-day Annual General Conference which opened with a sense of purpose and anticipation as attendees gathered for a powerful morning devotion that set the spiritual tone in Maseru this past weekend. The early session, which saw participants divided into small discussion groups, focused on a deeper reflection of the day’s Scripture. Each group was tasked with presenting their insights, fostering a sense of collaboration, critical thinking, and spiritual engagement among the youth.
The group that delivered the most impactful presentation was honoured with the opportunity to lead the subsequent worship session.
Their energy and reverence ushered the room into a powerful moment of praise, creating an atmosphere charged with joy, unity, and the palpable presence of God. This vibrant start became a spiritual springboard, preparing hearts for the rich teachings and testimonies that followed.
The first speaker of the day, Pastor Thabang Jane, delivered a heartfelt and challenging sermon centred on the theme of love, particularly the importance of loving God.
With compassion and conviction, Jane highlighted a crucial yet often overlooked truth that the ability to truly love others is rooted in the capacity to love oneself, and that such self-love must find its foundation in a deep, abiding relationship with God.
He reminded the attendees that they are called to see themselves as God sees them worthy, valuable, beloved and that this perspective empowers them to extend grace and love to those around them.
The day’s momentum continued with a compelling and practical session on entrepreneurship led by Pastor Lefa Khanare.
Addressing the youth with enthusiasm and clarity, Khanare explored the intersection between faith and finances. He challenged attendees to consider how they could invest in the Kingdom of God using the resources they have been given.
“God has entrusted each of us with something, whether it is time, talent, or treasure, our responsibility is to use it in a way that honours Him.” He said.
Khanare underscored the fact that while money is a powerful tool that can make life more manageable, it must be used with wisdom and integrity.
He cautioned against the temptation to pursue wealth for selfish gain and instead urged the attendees to be intentional, prayerful, and kingdom-minded in their financial decisions.
His message resonated deeply with many of the young attendees, sparking discussions about purpose, responsibility as well as spiritual maturity.
Health and well-being were next on the agenda, as Dr Lineo Letlala took the stage to deliver an insightful health talk. With compassion and expertise, she tackled a range of crucial topics that are often shrouded in stigma or misunderstanding.
Letlala emphasized the importance of living a healthy lifestyle, not just physically, but mentally and spiritually as well.
She spoke openly about cancer awareness, stressing the need for early detection and preventive care for both men and women.
Additionally, Letlala addressed issues surrounding circumcision and the menstrual cycle, advocating for comprehensive health education that equips individuals with knowledge and confidence.
Her session served as a vital reminder that caring for the body is a spiritual responsibility, and that knowledge is one of the most powerful tools for personal and communal well-being.
Rounding out the educational component of the day was Mashale Shale, who led an eye-opening discussion on the topic of gambling.
Her talk illuminated the often misunderstood and underestimated dangers of gambling, both from a social and spiritual standpoint.
Drawing from Scripture and real world examples, she exposed the subtle ways gambling can affect individuals and families, and encouraged the youth to make informed, God honouring choices.
“Gambling doesn’t just affect your wallet, it can damage your spirit, your relationships, and your sense of peace,” she explained.
Her message was a sobering yet necessary challenge to consider the long-term consequences of seemingly harmless choices, and to always seek wisdom and discernment in every area of life.
The day’s event culminated in a deeply moving testimony by Tšekelo Monare, whose story left a lasting impact on all who heard it. With raw honesty and heartfelt emotion, he recounted his transformation from a life of crime to one of faith and redemption.
His journey, marked by pain, struggle, and ultimately divine intervention, stood as a testament to the grace and power of God to change lives.
“God pulled me out of darkness and gave me a new name, a new purpose,” Monare shared.
His testimony brought tears to many eyes and served as a powerful reminder that no one is beyond the reach of God’s mercy. His story was not just one of personal triumph, it was a beacon of hope for anyone battling addiction, violence, or despair.
Participants left with hearts full and spirits renewed. The day had offered a balanced blend of worship, wisdom, and witness, each session addressed the holistic needs of the youth, spiritual, emotional, intellectual, and physical.
The conference continued to unfold as a transformative experience for all in attendance, reminding them that faith is not just a private affair but a vibrant, communal journey that touches every part of life.
With such rich content and authentic voices guiding the way, the future looks promising, not just for the conference, but for the generation it seeks to empower.
