Answering the Divine Call: A Journey of Faith and Obedience
The journey of answering a divine call is both profound and transformative, signifying a shift from secular pursuits to a life dedicated to spiritual service. Hebrews 5:4 encapsulates the essence of this journey: “No man taketh this honour unto himself, but he that is called of God, as in the order of Aaron.” This biblical mandate deeply resonates with my personal experience, marking a pivotal transition from a thriving business career to a committed life in ministry. On the 7th of May 1996, my life was irrevocably altered by a heavenly assignment.
A Dramatic Awakening
Prior to this, I was immersed in my transport business, navigating the commercial world with ambition and determination. However, on that fateful day, a dramatic and near-fatal motor accident in one of my vehicles served as a divine wake-up call, underscoring the urgency and seriousness of the call I had long ignored. The accident was a catalyst for introspection and spiritual awakening.
Unable to sleep after this miraculous deliverance from death, I sought solace in the Bible, turning to it for guidance and understanding. This was not merely an act of desperation but a profound moment of divine intervention. As I delved into the scriptures, God directed me to Isaiah 48:9, 15-17, and 21, with verse 9 hitting me with the force of a thunderbolt: “For my name’s sake will I defer mine anger, and for my praise will I refrain for thee, that I cut thee not off.” This verse resonated deeply, echoing the life-threatening incident that had unfolded just hours earlier. It was a stark reminder of the fragility of life and the divine grace that had spared me. The message was clear: I was being given a second chance, not just to live, but to fulfill a higher purpose.
The Divine Mandate
As I continued reading, the purpose of the vision became evident in verses 15-17. The words, “I, even I, have called him,” felt like a personal address from the Almighty. The divine invitation was unmistakable and compelling, further emphasized by verse 16: “Come ye near unto me…and NOW the Lord God and His Spirit, hath sent me.” This was a moment of revelation, a clear and unequivocal call to ministry. The mandate of the call was succinctly outlined in verse 17: “I am the one that teacheth thee to PROFIT, which leadeth thee by the WAY that thou should go.” The directive was to teach God’s people to profit through the way of faith. It was a call to share the word of faith, guiding others towards spiritual and moral prosperity. This newfound purpose was both humbling and empowering, steering me towards a path of divine service.
The Path to Ministry
The next morning, driven by a sense of urgency and clarity, I sought counsel from my pastor. His immediate response was to enroll me in the Word of Faith Bible Institute in Kaduna, Nigeria. This marked the beginning of my formal theological training, equipping me with the knowledge and skills needed to fulfill my divine mandate.
Reflecting on this journey nearly 23 years later, I am filled with gratitude and awe at the work of God in my life. The call I answered has not only transformed my personal destiny but has also led to the establishment of Covenant Faith Ministry International on the 5th of May, 2016, in London, United Kingdom. This ministry is a testament to God’s faithfulness and the transformative power of obedience to His call.
Embracing the Gift of Salvation
The greatest gift one can offer is not material wealth but the gift of salvation. This principle has guided my ministry, emphasizing the importance of leading others to a personal relationship with God. The words of Jesus in John 6:37-38 encapsulate this mission: “All that the Father has given me will come unto me…not to do my will but the will of Him who sent me.”
Answering the divine call is a journey marked by faith, obedience, and profound transformation. It involves relinquishing worldly pursuits and embracing a higher purpose. My experience is a testament to the power of God’s call and the incredible impact it can have on one’s life and the lives of others. As I continue this journey, I remain committed to teaching and leading others in the way of faith, fulfilling the divine mandate that was entrusted to me.
Conclusion
The divine call is an invitation to transcend the ordinary and step into a life of extraordinary purpose and impact. It demands a deep commitment to faith and a willingness to trust in God’s plan, even when it diverges from personal ambitions and comforts. My journey from a business career to a ministry is a testament to the transformative power of answering God’s call. It is a path that leads not only to personal fulfillment but also to the enrichment and salvation of many others. Through obedience and faith, we can all find our place in God’s divine plan and experience the profound joy of living out our true purpose.