Steve Evans uses music ministry to bring young people to God

Richmond, Manchester:

Like many of us, Steve Evans grew up on a godly foundation, and absence from church, unless he was sick, was not an option.

But much like many of us, he lost his way a few times and thought he was living his best life with worldly doings.

“Yeah, me backslide, and I was out there. Never really went for the gun thing, but all of that come to you. I was tempted to own one, but I never did. Women used to always see me and like me off, though, and even though I was entertaining them, I knew that God didn’t want me there.”

At age 18, Evans was fully indulging in the ways of the world, and by age 23, he had got his first child, occurrences he thought were inevitable because of his upbringing.

“I attended church as a youngster and found out I had a real singing gift at age 12. But I grew up rough. It was when I got to grade eight that I began to read with a little understanding. I didn’t get much schooling for most of my life, and by age 14, I stopped school,” he said

He worked small jobs at supermarkets but never once thought to give up, though difficult the days seemed.

“This is the reason I am how I am today. I never really had anyone to talk to me and encourage me; I had to encourage myself and work hard. But I want to be that person that encourages young people now and be that person who can help them out,” he said.

Evans said it is a joy to experience a hug from his children and know that his work is for their greater good.

“I have had some trying periods in my life. I’ve been accused of not caring for all my three children. I have lost my business. I have hit rock bottom,” he said.

Music was a strong part of his recommitment to God, and Evans believes it is the only thing that can keep him.

“I have performed all over Jamaica at several events and churches. It has been about four years since I have started this music ministry, but this year, more than ever, I am very serious about it, and [I’m] using it to reach especially the young people.”

No alternative

While he continues to hear stories of weary saints and backsliders, Evans said there is no alternative to living a godly life.

“Don’t give up on God. I have proven God. Sometimes it can be discouraging. I remember once when I got up to give a testimony in church, somebody asked me what kind of testimony that was, and instead of feeling down, I realised that some people are not mature enough to see God’s hands. Your testimony is as a result of what you went through, and nobody can downplay that.”

He added, “Another time, I was singing in church with my children, and people had the audacity to say I was looking for praises. This is the enemy working, and I cannot let it get to me – and you shouldn’t, either. I do everything for God.”

With about five original songs and a need to continue working for God, Evans revealed that his passion is to have young people be zealous and steadfast for God.

“ I have had a young girl come to me and tell me that a man of the cloth molested her, and I find a lot of young people who come to me and tell me the problems they face, and all I ask is that God gives me the inspiration to help them,” he said.

Evans said that each time he sings, someone comes to him and shares their story and he gets the wisdom he needs to advise and encourage them.

“I am thanking God for my wife, who supports me, and the ability to help young people who are in trouble. I am not perfect, but God continues to help me do the things I do to reach people. I take comfort in the song It‘ll Be Worth it After All because it will be worth it after all indeed,” he ended.