Deacon Jayeola
Retirement: Deacon Charges Congregation to Fulfil Life’s Assignments Before Old Age
By Olusegun HOSEA
8-2-2026
Members of the Christ Prayer Gospel Church International, Iro, Akure, have been charged to consciously fulfil their God-given assignments at every stage of life in order to enjoy a meaningful and fulfilled retirement.
The charge was given by the church’s Deacon Charles Jayeola with his Yoruba language interpreter Isaac Olayinka, during a sermon titled “Understanding the Law of Seasons.” He took his Bible text from Ecclesiastes 3:1–3, which speaks about the different seasons of life. He admonished the congregation to recognise these seasons and ensure that they accomplish the required assignments attached to each phase before it becomes too late. The man of God used the forum to thanked the Pastor in charge of the Church, Pastor Ojo Folajimi for the opportunity given him to minister to the congregation.
According to the Deacon Charles he said, life is structured into stages, and each stage comes with responsibilities that must be fulfilled. He urged members to be proactive in their journey through life so they can enjoy the fruit of their labour in old age.
He explained that the early stage of life, particularly up to the age of 25, is a period for foundational development. At this stage, individuals are expected to give their lives to Christ, discover their purpose, and build a strong moral and spiritual foundation. He stressed that parents have a responsibility to guide their children and introduce them to Christ early in life, noting that delayed spiritual growth often leads to wasted years.
Using the life of Jesus Christ as an example, the man of God highlighted how Jesus demonstrated the law of seasons by being about His Father’s business at a young age and later manifesting great impact when He entered His ministry. He encouraged youths to redeem their time, referencing Ephesians 5:16, and warned against allowing negative influences to hinder their destiny.
Deacon Jayeola further described the “afternoon stage” of life, which he said spans from ages 25 to 50. He identified this period as a stage of resolution and execution, when individuals are expected to work actively in their purpose, establish careers, and contribute meaningfully to society. He noted that failure to maximise this season often leads to regrets and struggles later in life, but encouraged those who feel behind to turn to Christ and realign their lives.
He described the “evening stage,” from ages 51 to 75, as the season of legacy. According to him, this is the period when individuals are expected to mentor others, train the younger generation, and correct past mistakes by investing in people who will carry on their values. He emphasised that true fulfilment comes when one’s children, followers, and mentees succeed and speak positively about one’s life and impact.
The final stage, which he referred to as the stage of rest, was described as a natural phase that comes after labour. He warned against trying to “cheat nature,” stating that rest is inevitable and ordained by God. He encouraged members to live responsibly so they can enter this stage with peace and fulfilment.
In conclusion, the man of God reminded the congregation that not everyone experiences all stages of life, but everyone is expected to make the best use of the season they are in. He called on members to reflect, pray, and commit themselves to fulfilling God’s purpose for their lives, stressing that a life rooted in Christ leads to lasting fulfilment and eternal rest.
