At the July 2024 Leadership Empowerment Summit held at LFC Canaanland, Bishop David Oyedepo delivered a powerful message on financial integrity and living by faith. He shared his personal journey of faith and commitment, emphasizing that he has not relied on church funds for decades.
"I earned my last pay in this ministry in December 1987. The church paid for my transportation last in 1988," Bishop Oyedepo revealed. "I've lived by faith to date without any announcement."
He recounted the humble beginnings of the church, moving from a grass shed to sanctuaries around the world, attributing the growth to God's blessings. "We moved from a grass shed church to sanctuaries around the world. God is changing your level!"
Bishop Oyedepo stressed the importance of sustained commitment, noting that past commitments hold no value unless they are maintained. He also highlighted the necessity of financial integrity, urging leaders to be transparent and accountable in their dealings.
"Allow the set order to work. Disorderly people don't make much out of life. They can't say something went wrong in the church account and they're asking for me. No! They know who to ask from," he emphasized.
"You must make returns on any expenditure, particularly impress and other things given to church officials. To be calling you to make returns, you have a questionable character."
Bishop Oyedepo shared his practice of meticulous record-keeping and accountability, even during his travels. "When the church was sponsoring my trips, before we arrived home, the account was ready. I would wait and collect receipts, including tollgate fees. Church money for you? No! Are you a priest? No! They say: 'Priest, carry your car.' I will not carry my car; give me my change! I will attach the receipts to return it. God has helped me to communicate what it means to maintain financial integrity."
He concluded with a call for all church members, including cell ministers, to adhere to the same standards of integrity and accountability. "May each one of us succeed in maintaining that at our various levels. It includes everybody! The church paid for my transportation last in 1988. I'm blessed! I've lived by faith to date without any announcement."
Fast forward the VIDEO to 1 hour 30 minutes for the sermon