By: Kenneth Appiah Bani
Ghanaian gospel musician Celestine Donkor has ignited widespread conversation on social media following a thought-provoking statement that challenges conventional expressions of faith.
Speaking in an interview with TV3 Ghana, the celebrated singer was asked what advice she would offer her 20-year-old self and today’s youth. Her response, however, took many by surprise.
“Believe in yourself first. Believe in God second,” she stated, a remark that has since generated mixed reactions among religious audiences and the general public. Expanding on her perspective, Donkor explained that self-belief is a critical foundation for personal growth and spiritual fulfillment. According to her, even though God’s belief in humanity is evident highlighted by the sacrifice of His Son individuals must first recognize their own worth for that divine purpose to manifest.
“If you don’t believe in yourself first, and God believes in you, it still won’t work,” she said. “God believes in you; if He didn’t, He wouldn’t have sent His Son to die for us.”
Her comments, though controversial to some, were ultimately aimed at empowering young people to embrace confidence and self-worth. She stressed that self-doubt can hinder one’s ability to achieve their full potential, regardless of their faith.
“There’s nothing you cannot achieve. Every other voice will be silenced. Every challenge will be overcome,” Donkor added. “But if God believes in you and you believe in God, yet you don’t believe in yourself, it won’t work. You matter in the conversation about your destiny.”
The statement has since sparked an ongoing debate, particularly within Christian circles, with some applauding her emphasis on self-confidence, while others argue that faith in God should remain the ultimate priority.
Despite the differing opinions, Donkor’s message has undeniably struck a chord, especially among young people navigating issues of identity, purpose, and belief in an increasingly complex world.
