FORUM FOR "UP-AND-COMING" ministers

[goldentoejam]

It has come to my attention that, while there are many people that frequently post in this forum that are young, there is nowhere for us youngun's to get advice, fellowship, and share experiences indicative of this season of our lives. I for one, having recently surrendered, preached my first sermon , and searching out the right seminary, etc. still find myself yearning for some sort of mature guidance. Neither of my parents are Christians, but somehow I require some good christian parenting. So, consider this an open invitation to discuss, share, lift one another up, and grow spiritually! Thank you guys for the prayers lately, and continue to remember and praise God in prayers for still calling those who will to his greater service. Pray that those being convicted with have their hearts made malleable, sensitive, and receptive of His perfect will. Enjoy!

Until ALL have heard,
Jason

 

[wild01]

That is a very good Idea,
and if I may add my 2 cents, I would also encourage you to find local pastors to share your problems with, an interdenominational leadership prayer group is more powerful than you can imagine. some of my closest friends are pastors, and in this group there is not one dominate denomination, it never ceases to warm my heart when I think about how closely knit our churches are. I am a part of a C&MA congregation, we share a building with the local Nazarene church. the Nazarene church has a combined youth group with a local baptist church, and all of the pastors get together every friday to pray for each other, there is also a new church called new life who's pastor just joined the prayer group, and another youth pastor who's church is about 65 miles away also is regularly involved with my congregation, in fact his praise band will be playing at our church tomorrow to give ours a break. it is not uncommon to see the pastor of another church at our service, partly because we have evening services as opposed to everyone elses morning services, but also because by standing united as one body of believers, no matter what the denominational affiliation, we are more welcoming to everyone.
I strongly encourage you to surround yourself with fellow believers, for the benefit of everyone. It is amazing to me how much I have grown as a christian simply by being able to talk regularly with my friends, (who happen to be pastors) and not just about religion, but about EVERYTHING. Just don't be to surprised when "pastoral counciling" becomes a 2 way street. The only thing scarier than a pastor asking for your advice is a pastor following your advice.

 

[ischus]

great idea

I am a "youngun" myself and would love to sit at the feet of wise men. I am in my final year of preparation for minsitry at my school (or 'seminary' as most call it) and am currently looking for a place to minister full time beginning as soon as possible (any help would be appreciated).

I often look through this section of the forum but there seems to be little posting going on most of the time (when I am around, anyway). I hope to talk more with all of you.

Blessings,

ischus

 

[goldentoejam]

Well Gee...I'm so glad that this thread is going to find purpose for someone! Wild01 and Ischus, I will add you guys to my prayer list...becoming a bit extensive now adays. I would have to concurr with Wild01 with the suggestions, importance, and utility of uniting as one body of believers. First, it allows a diverse experienced staff that you can infer practical knowledge from. Secondly, it shows cohesion, unity, and a since of belonging in the church...even among the leadership, which I must say is somewhat of a rarity from where I come from. Finally, from that since of community, fellow christians and non-christians alike can hopefully see "the difference" in the Christians. Setting our views, theories, and denominations aside, we are all just a bunch of guys that LOVE THE LORD and want to share it! Not to say that there isn't something to be said for loyalty to a congregation, but fellowship among spiritual leaders can almost only render good results. I have found that the time that I spend with local pastors facilitates more spiritual growth in me, and fuels the flame, more than just about any other opportunity. As for you Ischus, I will be remembering you as to where the Lord will lead you. As you already know, all you are responsible for doing is seeing the Lord move in your life and follow Him. You don't have to create and manipulate situations to get "your" way. His way is always best anyhow. He is not only preparing you for service, He is preparing a place for you to serve.

News from my side of the world: I received lots of compliments and encouragement from my first sermon. It is still somewhat foreign to me that the Lord will be using me as His instrument on such a large scale! When I open my mouth, what He has to say comes out...crazy but AWESOME! I will be having a few more preaching engagements coming up soon and will be enrolling in some classes via correspondence to get the ball rolling to make progress in this new calling.

My parents still remain skeptical to say the very least about my decision. But all I can hope for and have faith in is that they may see my good works and glorify my Father which is in Heaven. I will remain prayerful about it.

I am finally seeing the fruits of my spiritual labor. I am one of those "cause and effect" people that need to see that what I am doing is worth something to continue to do it. That is not always how it works out. I have been so diligently attending the Lord's will in my life and up until a couple of days ago, had not seen any change. But boy when you can see the way that the Lord works in and through each of us...it is a spectacle to behold.

Well guys, I would like to learn more about you so that I can cater to your needs more online and prayerfully. I pray that you find this thread useful, not only in venting, but in sharing, praying, and lifting each other up in intercession. Take care all and keep fighting the good fight. God Bless!

Until All have heard,

 

[ischus]

As for you Ischus, I will be remembering you as to where the Lord will lead you. As you already know, all you are responsible for doing is seeing the Lord move in your life and follow Him. You don't have to create and manipulate situations to get "your" way. His way is always best anyhow. He is not only preparing you for service, He is preparing a place for you to serve.

Thanks, bro. I am praying for you and your parents as well.
I really needed to hear those words of encouragement...I have been really stressed out lately while trying to find a place to go after graduation. Allow me to vent

My life:
I am engaged to be married on June 18 of this year. My fiance (Tabitha) is a nurse-just-graduated and wishes to work in critical care. She is in Wisconsin right now (our home state) and I am in Dallas, Tx.

The situation:
In order for her to have this job (critical care), she needs to first work somewhere that offers an intership for new grads in their critical care unit (it is a difficult job to get, and they have a "no rookies" rule, which is why everyone must go through the internship first). This would allow her to be fully qualified for the job and work anywhere in the US.

The catch:
There are not many places which offer this type of intership. The places that do offer it are the places where I can't seem to find any churches looking for a minsiter. Dallas does offer this internship, but I have been looking for almost a year now without any luck in the area.

the other catch:
it is dificult for me at this time to travel very far to visit, interview, or 'try out' at any churches because of my financial and transportation situation. I have taken a big hit since entering into this school (definitely worth it, but difficult at times), and I get by each month on God's providence alone.

The rest:
I have every confidence that God will find a place where both of us can be doing what we are called to do. The hard part is always waiting...but I have never had a stronger faith.

Prayers:
I would ask your (plural) prayers for 1) the church that I will one day minister to 2) my patience 3) a way for me to get enough money or a car to travel outside of my area 4) for my fiance to find a place to work


Well, that is the short version of my situation. I know that God will come through for me. I see it every day. This one is just taking a bit longer though, so I am experiencing some new levels of stress.

thanks for listening. God Bless!

 

[goldentoejam]

Well Ischus...while you have faced certain discouragement, it seems that you have exactly the right attitude about it. I don't know if this will find any application in your life but during the past few months(before i surrendered), I empowered myself with MANY verses from the B I B L E. This verse proved especially helpful since I have quite an issue with patience. I conceptually understand that the Lord will provide, make concessions, and bless us accordingly...in HIS time. I am faithful that He will carry out His promises. I have absolute certainty that He will not forsake me. But the thing is, that just doesn't seem to make the wait any easier. I'm not a very patient person by nature...but the Lord is certainly teaching me volumes in this regard. Be anxious for nothing but in everything by prayer and supplication make your requests known unto God. And the peace that surpasseth all understanding will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus. Phil 4:6-7. I know that I can give you very very little "advice" in this matter as I am quite the spiritual novice...experiencing intense sprititual "growing pains." But I certainly will be praying for you. Thank you for your prayers for both myself and my parents. While they just might never concede and support my new endeavor, and permanet endeavor might I add, they are atleast not as agressive and completely discouraging like they were before. I'm telling myself that the Lord is working on their hearts. Surely they can feel that void that can only be filled by Him.

I have yet to be in a posistion that even resembles yours; ie. the wife, internship, seminary, logistics, etc. But I have been tried, tested, prevailed(by some divine grace), and grown because of it. I envy your diligence and waiting on the Lord...instead of moving ahead of Him. Quite admirable if you ask me. So long as your hearts desire is to serve the Lord and abide by and in His will...everything will be okay. I realize that this is a simple sort of advice. But I need reassurance like that from other people sometimes.

Oh, and about that patience thing...you know what I think? I think that our lack of patience can actually be a good thing! "Huh?" you ask? Well, I see it as a passion, zeal, and fervent desire to begin the ministry that the Lord has set you on this Earth to do...and soon! Everyone thought that when I surrendered and quit taking classes at the University that I live at now, that I was crazy. Instead I told them that I saw no progress being made in my life unless it was directed at what I now understand as my calling and purpose. Once I knew just exactly the Lord wanted out of me, I wanted to begin that work immediately. Well, I am having to supplement that work with school and other "work" right now...but I'll get there. And won't it be sweet when nothing inhibits me, I find no encumbrance in life, and will be able to freely serve my God in a huge capacity! ! ! !

I'm so glad that your faith is stronger than ever. That is astounding. Well brother, I'm gonna have to get to bed so I can be up for church in the morning . But I will say a prayer for you prior to. You are an encouragement to all. Hey, if you would like, since it has been on my heart for a couple of days, look up Hebrews 12:1-4. It doesn't necessarily apply to your situation, but it will find residence in your heart. It is quite the challenge. Hope you been workin' out...because your about to pick up a cross! Until ALL have heard!
Your Brother IN Christ,
Jason

 

[FlyerBoy]

I like your Idea of the help and am currently looking for a place for me to be in my current church. I am thinking about Youth minister, but not sure. I don't really know what is best for me right now. I feel that there are lots of places for me to be.

 

[SoulFly51]

Howdy Ischus.


And yes, this is a good idea.

 

[ischus]

Howdy Ischus.


And yes, this is a good idea.

hey bro! What's going on? Thanks for the PM. I will reply soon.

 

[goldentoejam]

Ischus, I am still praying for you, the church that you would one day be a minister to, and your situation with your wife's occupation. I would just like to hear how everything is working out. So give me an update. Also, I have been struggling to establish correspondence between any schools so that I could transfer my credits and start a distance education program. I also have yet to find a job. I guess in the Lord's time, it will come. Until then, I will be patient. But they that wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings as eagles. Isaiah 40:31

 

[ischus]

hmm, my post got erased....

well, I am a little less stressed this week and feel the burden lifted off because of your prayers (for which I am thankful). I heard back from a church in Michigan today, and the guy sounded interested in me and seems like a great person. He said they are looking forward to hearing my sermons (the ones you send with the resume).

goldentoejam, I m praying for you to find a school to accept your credits. I know that can be a long process. How are things with the parents?

Stay strong,

ischus

 

[goldentoejam]

Well Ischus, it is indeed a slow process. I work in the Dean's office of a large University and still cannot make heads or tails of half to the stuff that they are telling me. Nonetheless, its all gonna be okay. The Lord already has a plan for it. It is exciting to hear that the Lord is working in your life. He is always faithful to answer prayers. I'm glad to pray on your behalf. Best of wishes with the sermons to be sent in.

In response to my parents, they are not taking it much better but I think that they are finally coming to the realization that this is a life's calling, not simply something that my creative brain manifested. There are also a few people in my parent's intimate friendship circle that are openly supporting my decision...which I can only hope to rub off on my parents. They will not fully understand my decision until they fill that void in their hearts that only a savior can fill. Continue to pray for my lost parents. Take Care Ischus and God Bless! !

 

[ischus]

'sbeen a few days so I thought I'd check and see how everyone is doing. So, how's it going?

 

[Hands&Feet]

Howdy everybody! I was a pastor until 13 years ago when my wife deserted my boys and me and left with one of my elders. That was a tough time for all of us. But, now God has restored my calling and I am about to be appointed my first Methodist Church.

I must tell you that the past 13 years of my life has been more beneficial in enabling me to pastor a church than all of my schooling ever was. In fact, there is no comparison. Seminary filled me with knowledge, but stifled my passion for ministry.

Don't rush yourself into ministry. Life is service to God regardless what we do. You will do yourselves and your future congregations a huge favor if you allow God to teach you his way and in his time. If God has called you, you can be sure that he will fulfill that calling in his time much better than if you try to fulfill it on your own.

Having said that, I would encourage you to read, "Finding God Where You Least Expect Him," by John Fischer, Harvest House Publishing. If I would have had that book 20 years ago, I would have saved myself untold frustration and grief and perhaps even my first marriage. If the future leaders of the church don't heed Fischer's model, there won't be any churches to pastor within 25 years if the Lord tarries.

Faith, expectancy and wisdom to all of you.

 

[goldentoejam]

Well, today was a new day and a great opportunity to give God the glory. I started a local (non-accreditted) Bible college on Tuesday, which was nice. While it is not transferrable, it is atleast furthering my knowledge and getting the ball rolling in the direction of my new-found calling. I am taking Creative Bible Teaching and Systematic Theology. One easy class, and one...well...not so easy class. But I LOVE IT! I just get all excited when I learn more and grow into a more intimate relationship with God! I am also about to start a correspondence class through an accreditted distance learning course. That college, I will be attending very soon. My church is going to pay for all of my books and tuition for this semester for my night classes. They are also paying for my books and tuition for the other college! God is good all the time. Tomorrow, I will be hitting the road again in search of a job. I need a 40 hour per week job with regular hours and have been waiting on the Lord for that one. I must admit, it has been trying. I took a step of faith in my call to ministry, dropping out of the University, quitting my job, etc. and have found seemingly nothing beneath my feet. I know that He is there though. He is just teaching me patience and reliance and trust on Him 24/7. Talk about a difficult pill to swallow. I'm down to my last couple of cans of soup, some bread that a friend brought me, half a package of hot dogs, some Ramen noodles, and some frozen fish in the freezer, but I've got FAITH and that is all that matters...truly! Faith is what feeds me and is the only sustinance that I will ever need. I also just began my internship with my pastor at church and I can forsee that to be very fruitful. Boy have I ever bruised up my knees praying lately ! ! Well, as for the folks(my parents), not any progress that I can discern. I am simply waiting to receive the call and here their voices say "I am a sinner and I need a savior." What a glorious day that will be!

While everything else is kinda crumbling in my life, I am on the spiritual rebound. I still have a suspended license from a speeding ticket that I could not pay, rent that I must pay, an outstanding credit card balance(not my fault) that I must pay, and a few other things, but money isn't everything. It is said that the LOVE of money is the root of all evil, but do you think that the HATE of money contributes to the root? I HATE money but it makes the world go round...so I must have it unfortunately. Well, all in God's time will this resolve and soon the wounds will heal. Not to say that this life of Christianity will not be met with bonds and affliction, but it will be ultimately rewarding.

If you guys don't mind, keep praying for me. I need it now in a mighty way. I'll persevere because it is Christ who strengthens me. Romans 8:38-39 For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature, shall be able to separate us from the love of God, which is in Christ Jesus our Lord. I will probably not be posting much anymore. Since my call to the ministry, I cannot give adequate time to the ministry and to Christian Forum like I should. God's calling wins. I will miss you all very deeply as I have grown shamefully fond of those who I pray for, pray for me, and fellowship with. I do look forward to hearing how the Lord is moving in your lives and how you are following Him in obedience. Tell me of his glory living out through each of you. Tell me of his holiness, righteousness, truth, and love. God Bless each and every one of you and keep you. With Christian Love.

Your faithful younger brother IN Christ,
Jason

 

[wild01]

jason,
praying for you man, good luck, and go with God.