God's calling

[servant4ever]

Hello,

I have been feeling this need to switch my major to Bible. First, it is stronger than it has been in the last 3 years. Second, my tutor in my business classes, told me he can see me majoring in Bible rather than business. Thirdly, my campus pastor plus another pastor I have talked to told me to major in Bible. Fourthly, I've had some friends tell me that I should major in Bible if I want to. But, the thing that keeps me back are my parents. If I switch my major, they will take away my financial help to my school that costs $25,000 a year. Is God calling me to "walk on water" or not?

servant4ever

 

[Macrina]

Can you go to your financial aid office and ask them about scholarships and such things? It's not easy, but it's possible. I got through undergrad and my MDiv paying for it on my own.

 

[AngelusSax]

Is it an option for you to serve in your church in a lay position? I'm in a similar situation (though my family will help as they can, their money well is running, shall we say, close to empty). I feel I'm being called to the ministry, too.

Here's the saving grace I've found. My church's pastors must go through seminary, of course. However, there are lay positions, one of which is a kinda like an assistant pastor role (unless I've misunderstood, but hopefully not). That being said, the position is rostered in the church, earns a salary, has benefits like health and dental, etc. From there, scholarships and grants and such are available to go on to seminary school to become a full-fledged, non-lay pastor.

I say this to ask you: is there a possibility like that for you? Perhaps you're being called to the ministry, and that road to it may take you through lay positions (which might mean a year or so off from school) before you reach the final destination.

It sounds like you may be getting that call. I can't say for sure, of course, as I can't read God's will for others. It's hard enough to discern His will for my own! I've felt the tug for a while (some call it a burn, a sort of indescribable feeling). It takes discernment on your own part, I can tell you that.

The best advice I, or anyone for that matter, can give is:
Pray. God will show you the way when the time is right.

God Bless you, keep you, and make His countenance to shine upon you and give you His peace through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

[Gwynne]

If it is truly God's call, then He can and will make it happen when you allow Him to! Consider becoming a student pastor, or finding some sort of position in your church or denomination. Seek financial aid, scholarships, etc.

I've been praying for a long time and have finally accepted that God is calling me to ministry. This involves going to school not only for my Masters degree, but getting a Bachelor's degree first! Finances are a HUGE problem, my family can't afford to help me, I don't work and my husband has two jobs! I met with a financial aid counselor last week and I qualify for full financial aid! God makes things happen when you let Him, but you must take action as well.

There are scholarships for those entering the ministry, start by asking your pastor if he/she knows of anything available. Also, search online and see what you can find!

God bless you!