The Power of Faith and Service: Lessons from a Great Mentor

By Pastor E A Adeboye

Throughout my journey of faith, I have been privileged to encounter many remarkable individuals. But among them, few have left as profound an impact on my spiritual walk as Evangelist Uma Ukpai. His life, characterized by unwavering devotion, humility, and an extraordinary commitment to the service of God, has served as a beacon of light not only to me but to countless others across the world.

This reflection is not merely a tribute to a great man of God but a testimony to the power of mentorship, worship, and steadfast service, especially during life’s most trying seasons.

Meeting a Man of God: The Beginning of a Spiritual Journey

Over four decades ago, during a crusade in Lagos, I encountered Uma Ukpai for the first time. That meeting marked the beginning of what would become a lifelong admiration and spiritual mentorship, even if it was from afar. What struck me most was not just the power of his message but the heart behind it. Before he uttered a word on stage, he knelt and worshipped with such sincerity that the atmosphere tangibly shifted. It was then I understood a deep truth: worship is not a prelude to the Word; it is an invitation for God’s presence to dwell among us.

In that simple, reverent act, Uma Ukpai demonstrated that humility in worship precedes power in ministry. It is a lesson that reshaped my approach to ministry and deepened my understanding of God’s presence.

The Significance of Worship in Manifesting God’s Presence

One of the most enduring lessons I learned from Uma Ukpai is that worship unlocks the supernatural. It is not a ritual to be performed but a sacred connection that aligns our hearts with heaven. His life has been a continual reminder that true worship invites God to move not only in crusades and congregations but in the quiet corners of our personal lives.

In every ministry event I have led since, I have carried that image with me: a man kneeling in worship, invoking heaven before addressing men. This posture of humility and reverence is what I believe every minister and every believer must adopt if we are to experience the fullness of God’s power.

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Mentorship and Aspiration: The Power of a Godly Example

In my youth, when asked whom I aspired to emulate, I did not hesitate to name Uma Ukpai. His ministry embodied everything I desired to become: humble, faithful, impactful, and unshakeable in the face of adversity. What I saw in him was more than charisma. I saw character the kind that is forged in the furnace of dedication and prayer.

Godly mentorship, whether through personal relationship or example, is one of the greatest gifts a believer can receive. Through Uma Ukpai, I discovered not just what it means to preach but what it means to serve. He became a model of Christlikeness, a reminder that our walk must always match our talk.

Serving God Through Trials and Tribulations

One of the most difficult chapters in my life was the sudden loss of my son. It was a moment of indescribable pain, a test of faith like no other. In that valley, I found myself recalling the life and endurance of Uma Ukpai, who himself has walked through storms with remarkable grace and steadiness.

Despite the grief, I continued to preach. I continued to serve. Not because I was strong in myself but because I had seen what it looked like to serve God even when it hurts. Uma Ukpai’s example reminded me that true devotion is not proven in prosperity but in perseverance. It is in our darkest moments that our faith shines the brightest.

Conclusion: A Call to Worship, Service, and Endurance

As I reflect on the influence of Uma Ukpai, I am reminded of the scripture in Hebrews 13 verse 7: “Remember your leaders, who spoke the word of God to you. Consider the outcome of their way of life and imitate their faith.”

His life continues to teach us that:

• Worship is foundational. It is where God meets us and empowers us.
• Mentorship is essential. God places examples before us so we can grow in grace and stature.
• Service must be unwavering. Even in the face of pain, our commitment to God must not waver.

In honoring a man like Uma Ukpai, we do not merely celebrate a life well lived. We embrace the values he represents. We commit ourselves afresh to a life of worship, to seeking out godly mentors, and to serving with all our hearts, even through trials.

 

Content Credit: Ohidah Oluwaferanmi

mage Credit: Instagram.com