Before You Build, Build the Foundation - Apostle Poju Oyemade

There are things God wants to build through a generation, but before the building begins, the foundation must be right. On Day Four of Rhema Feast 2026, Apostle Poju delivered a powerful and timely message from the lives of Ezra and Nehemiah, reminding the church that great things are not built through haste, but through prayer, wisdom and obedience to God.

Ezra and Nehemiah were originally one book, yet their assignments reveal two important dimensions of rebuilding. Ezra rebuilt the temple, restoring the place where sacrifices were offered, while Nehemiah rebuilt the walls, restoring protection and structure. One restored the altar; the other restored the walls. Together, their stories reveal that rebuilding requires both spiritual depth and practical responsibility.

Nehemiah did not rush into rebuilding when he heard about Jerusalem's broken walls. He went back to God in prayer. Ezra fasted and sought God for direction. Daniel, after reading the writings of previous generations and understanding that Israel's 70 years of captivity were coming to an end, responded by praying and interceding. The lesson was clear: as we grow in influence, power and responsibility, we must never forget our Source. Talk to God about everything.

Apostle Poju also challenged the gap that can sometimes exist between generations. The older and younger generations were never meant to compete; they were meant to see and strengthen one another. Moses needed Joshua, and Joshua needed Moses. The older generation carries experience, wisdom and perspective, and the younger generation often carries energy and expression. God is not looking for one generation to replace the other, but for generations to build together.

At the heart of the message was the importance of foundation. A building may look impressive on the outside, but if its foundation is weak, it will eventually be tested. In the same way, influence, success and visibility cannot replace a strong spiritual foundation. Before you build, get the foundation right. Sometimes what looks like delay is actually God giving you the wisdom, understanding and skill you need to carry what He has called you to build.

Apostle Poju therefore warned against being in a hurry. There is a difference between being called and being sent. When God gives you a vision, don't immediately run with it. Take it back to Him in prayer. Wait for wisdom. Wait for understanding. Wait until you know the strategy. Waiting on God is not wasted time; it is preparation.

And when you finally begin to build, expect opposition. Nehemiah faced mockery and resistance as soon as the rebuilding began. Apostle Poju reminded the church that people can change, circumstances can change, and those who once supported you may not always remain supportive. But your confidence cannot be built on people's approval. Your confidence must remain in God.

He also warned against allowing people to despise small beginnings. Where you start is not where you will end. The thing in your hand may look small today, but it could contain the seed of your future. Don't allow anyone to make you ashamed of what God has given you. Moses had a rod, David had a sling, and the widow had a small jar of oil. God has always demonstrated His power through what appears insignificant in human hands.

Ultimately, Apostle Poju's message was a call to build differently - to build with prayer, wisdom, patience and a consciousness of God's hand. Build without rushing. Build despite opposition. Build across generations. Build with what God has already placed in your hands. Because God is not merely looking for people who will start something. He is looking for people who will build something that the next generation can continue.

And perhaps the question for every person who heard the message is not simply, “What are you building?” but rather: “Is your foundation strong enough to carry what God wants to build through you?”