Every Sunday, the musical compositions of Israel Houghton fill houses of worship across the world. Among the most popular are "Again I Say Rejoice," "Not Forgotten," and "Turn It Around" — "praise and worship" songs that bolster an impressive repertoire that has received six Dove Awards, two Stellar Awards, and two GRAMMY Awards.
Through Houghton's lyrics, one can feel the presence of the Lord; and when these lyrics are transformed into song, one immediately feels the warmth and security of the Holy Spirit. Thus, the inescapable reach of Houghton's ministry is a testament to the favor God bestows upon those who walk in accordance to His will.
Since Whisper Out Loud (1997), Houghton's catalog has defied categorization. And with each subsequent release, social constructs, like race and religious denomination, have had little impact on his influence within the contemporary gospel genre.
Upon review of The Power of One, Israel Houghton managed to squeeze some time out of his busy schedule and settle down for an interview with Clayton Perry — reflecting on New Breed, Ephesians 1:18 and his journey to Joel Osteen's Lakewood Church.
From the very beginning, God has shown tremendous favor over your life. Do you ever wonder why you were chosen to lead the life that you lead?
All the time, man. I don't spend too much time dwelling on why God chose me. Many are called but few are chosen. I think the real hinge to that statement is acceptance by the one who's called, actually answering the call. A lot of people are being called who are not answering. The phone just keeps ringing, so to speak. For me, early on I know this is what I want to do so I'm going to take this call. It gave me a platform that allows this thing to perpetuate and keep going. I'm going to keep taking that call very seriously.
For me, it's more than a calling now; it's a cause. I think there is no chance of me doing anything else ever in my life because I realize that I was born for this. I realize that in whatever avenue I've been given, in whatever lane I'm in, I'm going to maximize my time here on earth. I don't ever want to look back and go, "Man, if I really should've taken that part of my life more seriously then maybe I would've had more impact." It's sort of an Oscar Schindler moment when he realizes, "Okay, I've freed a bunch of these people. But man, look at this watch on my wrist. If I had sold this watch, that could've been three more people free, you know?" I don't ever want to have that regret. At the same time, you look at that moment with Schindler and you go, "Dude, you did great!" But it was such a passion for him that he realized, "I could've done more." So everyday I'm saying I want to do more. I want to maximize every day in what I'm called to do.
Article comments
1 - David
In reading this article I am deeply touched by the words of both the journalist and My Favorite Gospel Artist Israel Houghton. I'm always wondering what's the next agenda, idea, goal, passion. I have the place where GOD wants Me to go in Life, that much HE has shown Me, yet I'm not there and so I'm constantly saying to Myself what can I shed to lighten My load so that I can get there...not necessarily faster because the race is not given to swift, but what can I do to lighten My load to make the journey easier? More conducive to the terms in which GOD has set for Me to reach the Destination, that mark that We all so desperately press toward. Am I even desperately pursuing the things of GOD like I would like to confidently say I am desperately pursuing? The question still remains, how...
2 - Dianne Knowles
Just to let you know....your article is very good, however it was difficult to read because it is covered with half-naked women. I am supposing that you are unaware of this and am bringing it to your attention.
Thanks to Israel Houghton for all the great worship music.
3 - Jordan Richardson
Dianne, I assume you mean the advertisements? None of the writers can do anything about the ads here.
4 - Brian aka Guppusmaximus
Diane, you should try surfing the web with Firefox instead of Internet Explorer. With Firefox, you can either use NoScript or AdBlock Plus. Trust me, you'll never see an ad again!
5 - Kawanzaa King
Wonderful interview! I was clinging to every word :-). Thank you Mr. Perry and Israel for sharing your hearts. The Power Of One is just, (sigh), right on time! Like you Mr. Perry, the track "Moving Forward" is one of my favorites and the song just gets right to heart of my own matters, just like- "Rejoice", "Rise Within Us", "Another Breakthrough", "You Are Good" and so many more. Again, thank you both Mr. Perry and Israel for sharing your gifts.
Abundant Blessings~