Changemakers for Christ

06/01/2026

06/01/2026

The Monday DEVOTION
By: Dr. Elvis UKPAKA
Date: 01st June 2026
www.changemakersforchrist.org
[email protected]

Friends, greetings in Jesus Name! Let me begin by saying, welcome to the month of June. This is my favourite month of the year because it is my birth month. Hallelujah! Today I will be sharing with you what I title, “Running for The Audience of One.” Today, many are doing things for different reasons. Many embark on projects that do not concern them. Many run when they see others running without questioning where they are running to. In the same vein, many are stationary, afraid to make a move because they see like-minded folks around them who are also stationary and doing nothing. If I may ask: Why are you doing what you’re doing right now? Are you convinced it’s what you should be doing? Or are you simply doing it because you see others doing it? You see, in life we must be purposeful if we are to win the race that is set before us.

In one of his letters to the saints in Corinth, Apostle Paul said, “Therefore I run thus: not with uncertainty. Thus, I fight: not as one who beats the air” (1 Corinthians 9:26). What is Paul trying to pass across to us here? He is simply saying, “I am purposeful in fulfilling my assignment here on earth, and I am convinced that what I am doing right now is what I should be doing. Therefore, I will not lose sight of the goal before me.” Hallelujah! Apostle Paul went further to make his point clear in Philippians 3:12-14 by saying, “Not that I have already attained, or am already perfected; but I press on, that I may lay hold of that for which Christ Jesus has also laid hold of me. Brethren, I do not count myself to have apprehended; but one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind and reaching forward to those things which are ahead, I press toward the goal for the prize of the upward call of God in Christ Jesus.”

From the above scripture, we can see that Apostle Paul decided to maintain focus and stay on his lane without distraction. He has set his eyes on what God has planned for his life; and he’s running for the audience of one man – the Lord God Almighty. In Paul’s worldview, the opinion of others or what others are doing didn’t count. What matters to Paul is what God had set before him. Unfortunately, this is lacking in the lives of so many so-called believers in Christ. Today, if someone does not have what his neighbor has, he or she becomes sick. The intense craze to compete or outshine others have grown to an alarming rate that many are no longer originals but photocopies. It’s so bad that if you even hear some certain songs today, you can easily tell where the bit or few lines of the lyrics are coming from. Yes, you could tell the original singer who sang in that line.

Listen, you're running your own race. Never get headaches from the accomplishments of others around you. If your neighbour buys an SUV Jeep today, don't go into depression because you're trekking now. Your own SUV is coming. Just have some patience. By the time it comes, yours will be the latest model in town, while theirs will become an old model. Can you imagine the difference between 2016 Mercedes-Benz SUV and 2026 Mercedes SUV? The difference is clear. Also, imagine 10 years from today, and you'll discover that today's SUV which many are craving to acquire will also be outdated. So, calm down! Yours is on the way. Proverbs 28:20-22 declares, “A faithful man will abound with blessings, but he who hastens to be rich will not go unpunished. To show partiality is not good, because for a piece of bread a man will transgress. A man with an evil eye hastens after riches, and does not consider that poverty will come upon him.”

So, keep doing what is expected of you without slacking. Proverbs 18:9 says, “One who is slack in his work is brother to one who destroys.” Therefore, be diligent, and keep focused, and with God on your side. The world will rejoice and celebrate with you for the goodness of God in your life. In my youth empowerment programs, I usually tell young people, be yourself. There’s power in originality. David declares in Psalm 139:14, “I will praise You, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made; Marvelous are Your works, and that my soul knows very well.” As far as David is concerned, why should I consider becoming like someone else when I am unique – so fearfully and wonderfully made by God – to fulfill a unique purpose here on earth.

Listen, the moment you lose sight of who you’re, you miss your purpose in life. Daniel knew who he was in Babylon; the same for Joseph in Egypt. Neither of them was out to please anybody or willing to trade their destiny for a morsel of bread (Genesis 25:29-34). They were so focused on God. Someone like Joseph was not ready to trade his destiny on the bosom of Delilah. He was so confident to look at Potiphar’s wife and said to her face, “There is no one greater in this house than I, nor has your husband kept back anything from me but you, because you are his wife. How then can I do this great wickedness to sleep with you, and sin against God” (Genesis 39:9).

Hear me friend, you’re created to give God glory. The Lord declares in Isiah 43:7, “Everyone who is called by My name, whom I have created for My glory; I have formed him, yes, I have made him.” And Revelation 4:11 declares, “Thou art worthy, O Lord, to receive glory and honour and power: for thou hast created all things, and for thy pleasure they are and were created.” Your existence on earth should bring pleasure to God. Therefore, our focus in life is to please God, not anybody. And because we should please God, we can’t afford to be in competition with anyone. Why? You have a purpose to accomplish here on earth. Your primary focus should be to discover and fulfil it, and not to pursue someone else’s purpose. “And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey” (Matthew 25:15).

From the above scripture, it’s so clear that no one is born useless. We’re all gifted and talented to do one thing or the other in life. The onus is on you and me to discover our God-given talents and deploy it into useful ventures. It will be a life cheated on oneself to drop his or her five talents to pursue after two talents that God gave to someone else. One of the worst positions to be in life is to be wishing to have what you already have. Apostle Paul declares in 1 Corinthians 3:21, “All things are yours.” Therefore, locate all that is yours, and find contentment in life without wishing to be someone else. Never forget, in life you're running for the audience of One—God Almighty—not your neighbour or colleague at work. You're not in competition with anybody. Therefore, stay in your own lane, remain focused, and run the race that God has set before you."

Everyone's journey is different, and every destiny unfolds according to its own timing. Do not compare yourself with others or strive to become someone else. Instead, embrace who God created you to be and faithfully pursue your unique purpose. True success is not found in keeping pace with others, but in fulfilling your God given assignment. Be yourself, trust God's timing, and remain secure in Christ Jesus. Your season will come, and your destiny will be fulfilled. Hallelujah! Have a Blessed and Fantastic Week. With love, Elvis!

God’s abundant blessings as you share with others.

Call now to connect with business.

05/29/2026

In my leadership experience, uncertainty is a natural part of leadership, especially in environments shaped by constant change, complexity, and evolving priorities. Leaders are often required to make decisions without complete information, relying on judgment, experience, and strategic thinking.

While uncertainty can create pressure, it also presents opportunities for growth, innovation, and adaptation. Leaders who maintain a clear vision are better equipped to navigate these conditions with confidence and direction.

A well-defined vision provides stability when outcomes are not predictable and helps leaders remain focused on long-term objectives. It enables them to make informed decisions, communicate purpose clearly, and guide others through ambiguity.

When teams understand the direction being pursued, they remain aligned, engaged, and committed. Over time, clarity of vision reduces confusion, strengthens confidence, and allows leaders to guide their organizations through change with consistency and purpose.

Leadership Question
Is my vision clear enough to guide my team through uncertainty and change?

Daily Leadership Action
Take a few minutes today to write or review your leadership vision and consider how clearly it is communicated to those you lead.

05/25/2026

"When leaders come together to rub minds, the impact of leadership becomes stronger, broader, and more transformational. Great ideas are sharpened through meaningful conversations, shared experiences, and collective wisdom. Leadership growth accelerates when leaders learn from one another, challenge perspectives, and unite around a common vision for greater impact." Dr. Elvis UKPAKA

05/25/2026

The Monday DEVOTION
By: Dr. Elvis UKPAKA
Date: 25th May 2026
www.changemakersforchrist.org
[email protected]

Friends, greetings in Jesus Name! Today I will be sharing with you what I title, “They Had Been With Jesus.” One significant difference that separates an ordinary Christian from an extraordinary Christian is being with Jesus. If I may ask: Have you been with Him? Really, you cannot genuinely be with the Lord Jesus and remain the same. Yes, I am a witness.

About 30 years ago, He invaded my life and completely turned my world around when I surrendered my life to Him. There is something remarkable about being with Jesus that life without Him cannot offer. First, Jesus is your source of life. “For in Him we live, and move, and have our being” (Acts 17:28). Second, Jesus illuminates your life. “This then is the message which we have heard of Him, and declare unto you, that God is light, and in Him is no darkness at all” (1 John 1:5). You cannot truly walk with Him and remain in darkness. Never!

Third, He is your source of strength. “But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles; they shall run, and not be weary; and they shall walk, and not faint” (Isaiah 40:31). Jesus empowers you to do the supernatural naturally. Fourth, He is the way. Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man comes unto the Father, but by Me” (John 14:6). You cannot miss your way in life when you have truly been with Him.

Fifth, Jesus is your shield and protector. “He that dwells in the secret place of the Most High shall abide under the shadow of the Almighty” (Psalm 91:1). Sixth, He is your provider. “But my God shall supply all your need according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19). Seventh, Jesus is your hope of eternal life. “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believes in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life” (John 3:16). “That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Romans 10:9). Hallelujah!

Hear me, after the death of Jesus, great fear came upon the disciples. They did not know what to expect next. It appeared as though their whole world had collapsed. At that point, Peter was at one of the lowest moments of his life. Not long before then, he had denied Jesus three times and was still battling with guilt and regret. Suddenly, Jesus arose from the dead and sent a message to His disciples and to Peter that He would meet them in Galilee (Mark 16:7). He came exactly as promised and had fellowship with them.

Thereafter, Jesus promised them the Comforter, the Holy Spirit, who would empower and remain with them forever. Truly, the Holy Spirit came and fell mightily upon them with great power. “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance” (Acts 2:4). When they came out from the upper room where they had been waiting, they were completely transformed men. The fearful Peter suddenly became bold and fearless. When he stood to preach the Word of God, over three thousand souls responded to the call of salvation in one day (Acts 2:1-41).

From that point onward, miracles, signs, and wonders began to follow them. The Bible records that when the high priest, rulers, elders, and scribes in Jerusalem “saw the boldness of Peter and John, and perceived that they were unlearned and ignorant men, they marveled; and they took knowledge of them, that they had been with Jesus” (Acts 4:13).

Beloved, when the hand of God rests upon your life as a result of fellowship and intimacy with Him, you become a wonder to your generation. There is a level of grace, wisdom, boldness, and influence that only comes from abiding in His presence. This is why daily fellowship with Jesus is not optional for the believer. It is the secret of spiritual strength, clarity, stability, and victorious living.

To tarry with Jesus means to spend quality time daily in His Word, in prayer, in worship, and in obedience to His leading. Psalm 119:105 says, “Your word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path.” As you remain with Him consistently, you begin to experience divine direction and supernatural ease in areas where others struggle endlessly.

There is a major difference between a man led by God and a man leading himself. When you attempt to lead your life without God’s backing, you quickly run out of strength and direction. “For by strength shall no man prevail” (1 Samuel 2:9). But when you prioritize God and make room daily for His presence, heaven begins to work on your behalf. The angels of God go on assignment to make crooked places straight before you. Psalm 91:11 says, “And He shall give His angels charge over thee, to keep thee in all thy ways.”

Remember, never become too busy to spend time with Jesus. Just a few moments of genuine fellowship with Him every day can transform your life forever. It is not merely about quantity of time, but consistency and sincerity of heart. Jesus said in Matthew 11:28, “Come unto Me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest.”

Therefore, as you go through this week, make it a point of duty to be with Jesus. Let your life, speech, attitude, and actions reveal evidence that you have been in His presence. May men look at your life and testify: “This person has been with Jesus.” Hallelujah! Have a Blessed and Fantastic Week. With love, Elvis!

God’s abundant blessings as you share with others.

05/18/2026

The Monday DEVOTION
By: Dr. Elvis UKPAKA
Date: 18th May 2026
www.changemakersforchrist.org
[email protected]

Friends, greetings in Jesus Name. Today, I will be sharing with you what I title, “Looking Unto Jesus.” Let me begin by saying that there is no problem bigger than God, and no situation beyond His power to handle. What often makes our challenges appear insurmountable is simply our focus. Does your problem seem more real to you than the power of God to save and deliver? Until you come to the point where you magnify God above your circumstances, breakthrough becomes difficult to experience. “So, Jesus answered and said to them, “Have faith in God. For assuredly, I say to you, whoever says to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea, and does not doubt in his heart, but believes that those things he says will be done, he will have whatever he says. Therefore, I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them” (Mark 11:22-24).

Many people today are brokenhearted because they see their problems more than they see God. Hebrews 12:2 declares, “Looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith.” Beloved, when trouble comes knocking at your door, where is your first point of focus? Is it to panic, run helter-skelter, become confused, depressed, or overwhelmed? If these become your response whenever challenges arise, then understand that the enemy is trying to pull your attention away from the saving power of God. The Bible says in 1 Peter 5:8, “Be sober, be vigilant; because your adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour.” To be vigilant means to remain spiritually alert and focused on God without losing sight of Him. Never forget that outside of Christ is crisis. Jesus said in John 15:5, “For without Me you can do nothing.” Why? “For in Him we live and move and have our being” (Acts 17:28). It is God’s power, mercy, and grace that sustain us. If He withdraws them, we become defenseless before our enemies.

A few years ago, I realized that my US visa had less than two months before expiration. Very unlike me, I had not made adequate plans early enough for renewal. At the same time, I had a conference to attend in the United States around the period the visa would expire. If I traveled, the visa would expire while I was still there. Anyone familiar with the US visa application process in Nigeria understands how difficult it can be, especially securing an appointment date for interview or drop box submission. In fact, many people wait months, sometimes over a year, before getting appointment dates. In my case, I urgently needed a drop box appointment to submit my passport, but all available dates were far beyond my visa expiration period.

Honestly, I became deeply troubled and angry with myself. One evening, while my wife was in the kitchen, she noticed my countenance and asked, “Udy, why are you looking so troubled? Is it because of the visa appointment date? Is God not bigger than that? If it is His will, He will make a way.” I said nothing and simply walked away. The following morning during my quiet time, I brought the matter before God in prayer. Immediately, the Lord ministered to my spirit, saying: “Son, is anything too hard for Me to do” (Genesis 18:14). Then He led me to Ephesians 3:20-21 which says, “Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us…” Afterwards, he said to me, “I am bigger than the appointment date that you seek. Go and take your shower and have your breakfast.”

Immediately, I went upstairs, took my shower, and as soon as I stepped out, getting ready to go have my breakfast, I received a call from my travel agent saying, “Dr. Elvis, you have been given an appointment date for your US visa drop box. Please complete your application form immediately.” Normally, the drop box process can take two to three weeks. But in my case, the visa was stamped and returned within three days. The entire process from securing the appointment date to submission and collection took only one week. Listen, this is what God can do when your eyes remain fixed on Him. Psalm 121:1-4 says, “I will lift up my eyes to the hills from whence comes my help. My help comes from the Lord, who made heaven and earth.” Hallelujah!

Friend, I do not know what challenge you may be facing today. It may not be a visa issue. It could be marital challenges, financial pressure, health concerns, children’s school fees, house rent challenges, or emotional battles. Whatever it may be, the issue is not the name of the problem. What matters is where your focus is fixed. Is it on the problem, or on God who is able to solve it? Many people become entangled in deeper trouble because they lose sight of God, the Solution Provider. But those who look unto Him are never put to shame. Psalm 34:5 says, “They looked to Him and were radiant, and their faces were not ashamed.”

The Bible records that three nations rose up against Jehoshaphat and Judah. Though afraid, Jehoshaphat allowed his fear to drive him toward God, not away from Him. He gathered his people together and proclaimed a fast throughout Judah and cried unto the Lord saying, “O Lord God of our fathers, are You not God in heaven, and do You not rule over all the kingdoms of the nations, and in Your hand is there not power and might, so that no one is able to withstand You?...O our God, will You not judge them? For we have no power against this great multitude that is coming against us; nor do we know what to do, but our eyes are upon You” (2 Chronicles 20:1-12). I pray as you go through this week, may your eyes remain fixed on God. If you continue reading that chapter, you will discover how God fights for those who put their trust in Him. Exodus 14:14 says, “The Lord will fight for you, and you shall hold your peace.” Your faith in God can never be denied when you put your trust in Him. Remember, “Do not cast away your confidence in God, which has great reward” (Hebrews 10:35). Hallelujah! Have a Blessed and Fantastic Week. With Love, Elvis!

God’s abundant blessings as you share with others.

05/11/2026

The Monday DEVOTION
By: Dr. Elvis UKPAKA
Date: 11th May 2026
www.changemakersforchrist.org
[email protected]

Friends, greetings in Jesus Name! Today I will be sharing with you what I title, “Courage in the Midst of Adversity”. In the journey of life, the place of tough times cannot be ruled out. As they say, “Tough times don’t last but tough people do.” Ladies and gentlemen, may I announce to you that adversity is an essential part of life that you cannot wish away. The key ingredient to overcoming adversity is how you handle it. That is why you see two people facing a similar challenge and one is being swallowed by the problem while the other rises above it. The question is why? It is all about the mindset.

What is adversity? It is a state of adverse condition, misfortune, or calamity. The story of Job in the Bible exemplifies a classical case of real adversity. Usually, God allows adversity for a reason. Indeed, adversity serves as a barometer to measure the greatness in an individual. The real you manifests itself in times of adversity. Your ability to continue or withdraw from the race of life is often tested in moments of fiery trials.

According to Proverbs 24:10, “If you faint in the day of adversity, your strength is small.” Meaning, quitters do not win, and winners do not quit. The potential in you surfaces in times of adversity if only you do not throw in the towel. Never give up. David would not have summoned the courage to fight Goliath if he had initially run from the lion that attacked his sheep while he was a shepherd boy. By the time David faced Goliath, he realized he had the potential within him to defeat the giant because he had already conquered the lion.

Alfred D. Souza said, “Problems are the price of progress. The obstacles of life are intended to make us better, not bitter. Adversity has advantages.” Today, many people are complaining because of the harsh economic realities they face. Indeed, things are difficult for many. But what should you do in moments like this? Fold your arms and blame the government without taking action? No! You must arise and do something if you truly desire to succeed.

The greatest gift God can sometimes give you is to allow a temporary crisis that forces you to discover your wings. Consider the eagle. An eagle is a unique creature that can look toward the sun and soar through storms without fear. The best of the eagle is often revealed in difficult conditions. As the eaglets grow, the mother eagle gradually dismantles the comfort of the nest, creating discomfort that eventually forces them to fly. Why? Because an eagle that cannot fly can never fulfill its purpose.

Likewise, your life will lack meaning until you discover your wings. One of the ways God helps you discover those wings is through adversity. Romans 5:3-4 reminds us that “tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope.” Also, James 1:2-4 encourages believers to count it all joy when facing trials because the testing of faith produces endurance and maturity.

Beloved, never allow adversity to make you bitter against God. Sometimes, the very storm you are praying against is the same storm God wants to use to build your strength, reveal your capacity, and prepare you for greater assignments ahead. Remember, the Lord said He will never leave nor forsake you in Joshua 1:5. No matter what you may be going through, the Lord is right there with you to preserve and deliver you as promised in Isaiah 43:1-3. Have a Blessed and Fantastic Week. With love, Elvis!

God’s abundant blessings as you share with others.