Cultivating a Clean Mind for Spiritual Harmony
To operate effectively with the Holy Spirit, your mind must be clear and free from inequity. As the scripture says, “If I regard iniquity in my heart, the Lord will not hear me.” I strive to avoid church politics, contention, and enmity, despite my strict and firm nature.
My mind has become so fertile that I no longer entertain negative thoughts about people or situations. My greatest treasure is my peace of mind, as it serves as the foundation for my life.
Guard your heart from jealousy, as it is from the heart that the issues of life flow. Be transformed by the renewing of your mind, focusing on things that are honorable, pure, and of good report.
Am I being understood, or am I alone in this journey of confession?
The Power of Independent Learning and a Close Walk with the Holy Spirit
Mr. Bamuza from GCU once said, “Valuable as knowledge is, the power to acquire it independently is more valuable.” When I was born again, I sought a direct relationship with the Holy Spirit for teaching and guidance. I bought several Bibles and spent time alone reading, praying in the spirit, and meditating—true to my reclusive nature.
During a Sunday school preparatory class, I was asked why we were not witnessing the miracles of old. I did not have an answer, so I prayed about it and asked the Holy Spirit directly. I felt a clear response: “I will use you to answer that question.”
This led me to establish a close walk with the Holy Spirit, avoiding bitterness, jealousy, malice, and church politics. I distanced myself from the noise of Pentecostalism and began studying figures like Charles Finney, John G. Lake, Alexander Dowie, Maria Woodworth-Etter, and Aimee Semple McPherson.
For three months, I fasted daily, eating only one meal in the evening, and spent time praying in the streets of Ogbor Hill, Aba. The experience was as sweet as honey, and soon, I began to feel a divine presence when reading the Bible, as if the words came alive and spoke to me.
Eventually, when I spoke, supernatural manifestations occurred, which initially frightened me. Even in the hospital, as I practiced what I had learned, testimonies began to emerge. During my time as a deacon, there were tangible manifestations of the Holy Spirit’s gifts in church. My bishop took notice and invited me to lecture his pastors during their meetings.
Moreover, many of the Bible students I taught in Sunday school have become bishops themselves. This journey underscores the profound impact of a personal relationship with the Holy Spirit and the importance of independent learning.
I remain your friend, Dr. Charles Apoki.
