One of the most difficult things for us to achieve is to remain humble in the face of prolonged success. Success often makes most people forget their humble beginnings. Some go a step further in the wrong direction by casting aspersion on the upcoming generation of those in their line of calling. Such was the case of one of the great gospel music ministers in Nigeria – Tope Alabi. Tope Alabi’s brand of gospel music is not only refreshingly different but spiritually uplifting. Even non-Yoruba Christian worshippers can connect to the Almighty through her music without understanding a word from her lyrics. Such is the talent and spiritual endowment of Tope Alabi. I am always blessed and reassured of the Godness of God whenever I listen to her. So, it was a surprise to hear her comment on a fellow Yoruba gospel musician who sees her as a mother figure and inspiration. The online backlash that followed her statement and her silence on the matter brought commentaries from far and wide that showed she is indeed widely regarded and acknowledged as an oracle of the Most High.

But this is not the first or second time Tope Alabi will be trending for the wrong reasons. There was a video of her some time ago dancing the suggestive sensual dance that was the very appearance of evil that the Bible enjoins believers to be wary of. There was also a paternity issue that cropped up with regards to her child. All have sinned and come short of the glory of God. And many of us still often think, say, and do things that are un-Christlike. Thank God that though we must not take His grace for granted, His mercies endure forever. Having said this, it must be noted that every profession or calling has its dos and don’ts. The behavioral standards or requirements for secular musicians like Tiwa Savage is crystally different from that of gospel musicians like Mercy Chinwo. The code of conduct of entertainers like Flavour is different from that of music ministers like Nathaniel Bassey. Wherever you find yourself or when you decide you want to pursue a call as a Gospel musician like Chidinma Ekile recently did, you must know you are not a solo artist. You belong to a very privileged group of kingdom workers who help to bring down the glory of God. Hence, circumspection must be your watchword.

From the outcome of Tope Alabi’s criticism of a Yinka Alaseyori song that was originally written by Tolu Adelegan, it is somewhat obvious that we are in an age where as public or even private figures, our every move might be on tape. The delayed apology from Tope Alabi and the content of her apology also shows she might not be remorseful of the unguarded utterance that she claimed was a product of a spirit. If you ever decide to work in the vineyard of JEHOVAH, know that you are in the spotlight and your words and actions could win or lose a soul for the kingdom of God. As children of the Most High, our private sin or mistakes has public consequences. And when we are confronted with them, we must acknowledge them and tender apologies without justifying our actions. Or adding side notes that can diminish the correction of the harm, which are usually meant to shore up our reputation in the prevailing circumstance. Gospel musicians must know they are not in the entertainment industry. They are in an industry that was paid for by a very costly sacrifice – the Blood of Jesus Christ. The life and ministry of one of the greatest gospel musicians – Cece Winans should be a model for upcoming music ministers.

Ata Ukuta, Editor  – www.towncryyers.com