I am Dr. Charles Apoki, and today, I want to share an important reflection on my prayer lifestyle and how my faith is grounded in the Word of God, not driven by fear.
On December 3rd, 1994, I received a Bible from a Reverend and for 30 years, this Bible has been a cornerstone of my spiritual journey. Recently, I asked two of my mentees, Reverend Samson and my lawyer, if they had ever heard me pray loudly. Their response was revealing: they had never heard me shout in prayer. Instead, they noted that I pray silently or in the Spirit. This observation underscores the essence of my prayer life—faith anchored in God’s Word rather than loud declarations or fear-driven rituals.
Many so-called prayer warriors often pray out of fear, ignorance of Scripture, or a lack of faith. Romans 10:17 reminds us that “faith comes by hearing, and hearing by the Word of God.” The Word is the raw material for faith. My life—like a ship—is anchored securely to God’s Word, which is unshakable and eternal. I don’t constantly check the anchor; I trust it to hold.
Prayers That Shape a Life of Faith
Throughout my life, I have received blessings and prophetic declarations that have shaped my faith. When I was a young boy, I helped an elderly woman cross a tarred road. She blessed me, saying, “It will be well with you, and no man shall be able to kill you.” My aunt, who worked with Apostle Babalola, also prayed over me with profound words that I hold dear to this day. These blessings have become anchors of faith in my life.
There are specific Scripture passages that I have marked in my Bible—passages that act as pillars of faith. For example, Isaiah 48 sustained me during a challenging time when a pastor doubted my calling. I prayed, and God’s Word reassured me: “I know that you are a stiff-necked person, but I will refine you.” Passages like these have carried me through missionary journeys to unfamiliar places, giving me the confidence that God has gone before me and will never leave or forsake me.
Faith Over Fear
I don’t pray out of fear or repetitive rituals. I believe in the promises of God. When I travel to places I’ve never been, I hold onto His Word: “I will go before you and make the crooked places straight.” This belief eliminates the need for fear-driven prayers or the constant casting of fire and thunder upon supposed enemies. I have never been harmed by witches or idol worshippers, even though I come from a family with idolatrous roots. My younger brother, a high priest, respects my faith and calls me “God’s Bishop.”
The Problem with Fear-Based Prayers
Many Africans are trapped in fear-based prayers, rooted in myths, traditions, and manipulative doctrines. They rely on men’s calendars and aprons rather than God’s unchanging Word. This mindset has led to unnecessary fasting, endless deliverance sessions, and exploitation in the name of faith. But Scripture is clear: “It is finished.” Our salvation and provision are secured in Christ. We must anchor our faith in God’s promises, not in human traditions or fear.
Prayers That Matter
My prayers focus on things within God’s exclusive domain: good health, guidance, and fulfillment of purpose. I ask Him to create in me a clean heart, renew my spirit, and help me organize my life. As for material needs, I trust that “God will supply all my needs according to His riches in glory.”
A Call to Anchor Your Faith
Let us cultivate a personal relationship with God through His Word. Avoid the theatrics of shouting, rituals, and fear-driven prayers. Jesus Himself taught us to pray in private, away from the streets and public displays of spirituality. Anchor your faith on God’s Word, live a life of purpose, and trust in His promises.
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Remember, if God is for us, who can be against us? Anchor your faith on Him and live free of fear.
I remain your friend,
Dr. Charles Apoki.
God bless you.
