Dr Adebowale Adedokun preached a sermon on Sunday that challenged popular thinking about money. The BPP Director-General told worshippers at Jesus Praise Evangelical Ministries International in Abuja that real wealth starts with God, not shortcuts.
His message was clear: prosperity isn't built on formulas or quick schemes. Instead, it rests on biblical principles and strong character, he explained.
Adedokun stressed that financial success should honour God and help others. It must reflect responsible stewardship, he noted.
"There is no formula for becoming rich. Financial prosperity is not about quick wealth," the procurement boss declared.
"It is prosperity that honours God and blesses others."
Many believers miss the point entirely, according to him. Those who haven't learned to give generously haven't grasped what true prosperity means.
Wealth isn't just about what you own, he said. It's measured by how willing you are to lift others up through acts of kindness.
Contentment emerged as a critical ingredient in his sermon. Without it, financial success remains impossible, he warned.
"If you are not content, you cannot be financially prosperous. You are not competing with anybody; you are competing with yourself," Adedokun told the congregation.
He drew on his own life story to illustrate the point. Growing up poor, he watched childhood friends receive advantages he didn't have.
Rather than chase their lifestyle, he stayed focused on God's purpose for him. That choice shaped everything that followed.
The path to achievement requires patience and steady progress. Quick success rarely delivers lasting results, he noted.
"When you follow God's precepts step by step and take your time to grow, you will arrive at your destination at the right time," he said.
Scripture backs this approach, Adedokun argued. Deuteronomy 8:18 reminds us that God alone gives the power to build wealth.
Money matters far less than your relationship with the Creator. Without that foundation, prosperity becomes hollow, he explained.
Young people especially need to make smart choices now. Who you befriend, where you live, and how you think will shape tomorrow's opportunities.
"The choices you make today determine where you will be tomorrow. Your choice of friends, your mindset and your location matter," he said.
Negative influences should be avoided at all costs. Delayed gratification and commitment to long-term goals separate winners from those left behind.
Giving to God isn't an obligation or favour to Him. When Christians pay tithes and make offerings, they worship through generosity, not duty.
"You are not doing God a favour by paying your tithes or giving offerings. It is about honouring God," he stated plainly.
Building real wealth demands diligence and excellence in daily work. Skill development and moral integrity cannot be compromised or shortcuts found.
"What distinguishes people is diligence and excellence. Prosperity follows consistent effort, wisdom and productivity," the DG noted.
He warned against drowning in unnecessary debt and wasteful spending. Financial discipline separates those who prosper from those who struggle endlessly.
