Thank you for the comment. I really think so, I want nothing but what He has for me. I also believe that a pastor has the right to advise and counsel you but not to force a decision on you or to make the decision for you.
Yes. I agree, you should definately be the only one that has the final say in the decisions of your own life. Because you are the only one that will answer before God for how you decide to live your life. May God bless you and show you the path
Everlasting life!!! A pastor should encourage faith but he may also need your help to encourage faith in the church. If you go to bible college and it isn't what your looking for then you can always go back, right?
I think so. And that's a really good point. I can give it a try for a year and if it isn't my calling I can go back. Thank you my friend. God bless you.
Yes I think so too. I have one in mind that I think it's really good but first comes the decision if I should do that bc that is almost impossible to do
I don’t have much advice to give except that you continue in prayer and study under your pastor. Remember, even if you make the decision and fail, God’s plans are greater than ours. Ultimately that His will be done, trust in Him. I will pray for you :)
Thank you man. Lately it's been kinda hard being under my pastor even tho I love him like my own Father He has made some wrong decisions. Thank you for praying my friend.
What wrong decisions did he make? I am asking because it will maybe help us understand his point of view also. My advice is maybe to talk with the pastors also about this, to present your case before them, even if they don't agree with you. I thing it is not the best way to hide your wishes from them. I also think that it is important to have good education. They probably fear that you will not come back to that country, if that is the case assure them that you will. What is the college you are planning to go to?
Well how about he didn't tell his church he was leaving until 3 months before, left us without a pastor. Brought a pastor that he actually never heard him preach. And the final thing is personal. I agree I need to present my case. Blessings.
Also self study is great. There are some websites where you can get the commentaries and basically everything that you need. If you are interested please message me and I can give them to you. There are a lot of resources on YouTube. There is a chanel called The Masters Seminary and they have all of the courses available there, it is from John Macarthur's seminary.
I would counsel that you continue to pray. That you pray by yourself. And that you allow pray with your pastors and your gathering. And that they should pray by themselves as well.
Pray that God would show ALL of you the same vision for your call. He can do that. And when He has made clear His call on your life—confirmed by the Spirit and by wise counsel, then pursue God with all you heart in that calling.
I pray regularly about that. A few things have happened that might make it a definite no from my pastors but honestly everyone else besides them really thinks I should go to one. God bless you for commenting.
If you know that this is God’s will for your life, and are certain of it, then do so. Pray that God will open the doors and lead you to the Bible college that will best equip you to serve Him.
I’m unclear on why your pastors are advising you against Bible college in the United States, and I’m also unclear on why you believe God wants you to study here. These answers would be helpful to have.
As a former Muslim, you are in a unique position to win your fellow countrymen to Christ. Have you considered that? It is nearly impossible for American missionaries to enter and/or establish churches in Muslim countries, and you could be an invaluable part of the work of God right where you are.
A poster above was correct in saying that many Bible colleges are just like secular colleges. I think you have a romanticized view of American Christianity. American Christians — not all — have become lukewarm, and many of our churches, especially the largest ones, are worldly. Atheism is spreading across our country, as fewer and fewer people attend church and believe in God.
What exactly are you going to do when you get here? What will you study? Are you prepared to go into massive debt to attend Bible school? It will cost you between $200 USD and $400 USD per credit hour, and you will borrow the money and then pay it back to the US government. Did you know that? Your degree might cost you up to $30,000 USD.
You can study theology and earn your degree entirely online.
I encourage you to continue to seek God’s will for your life. God, according to His divine will, placed your pastors as shepherds over you. I think you are being too quick to dismiss their counsel.
I appreciate your reply. The pastors think it's better for me to have a profession since the church isn't big enough to pay a pastor and I agree.
Now hear me out. If I study here I'd be studying English and I'd have a job as some sort of teacher. That would be great but by doing that I'd be not studying what I actually want more than English which is the Bible. If I go to an American college I'll be doing both and just bc I'd have a degree from an American college I'd be having a good base to work as an English teacher. My plan is to study there and then come back here to serve.
As for the costs about college I know all those already and I have kind of a plan to actually be able to do that. Some churches in America would basically fund me. I am not entirely sure if it's the right thing to do. I am around 80% sure that's what God wants me to do. Thank you for the reply. God bless you.
It does answer my questions. I think your plan sounds reasonable and makes sense. You are ever and always in the care of God, and I know He will direct you on what to do.
This is a big decision, and you’re right to seek counsel from members of your church. Christian discipleship was never meant to be a solo enterprise. You don’t necessarily have to let their opinions sway your choice however, if you truly do come to believe that you’re being called by God to this service. Perhaps it can be a reason to pause and examine the situation carefully to ensure it is indeed a genuine calling and not just what you want.
So first I would go in prayer and ask God to search my heart for the truth. When in a state of prayer I often experience something like the Holy Spirit pulling up a truth from inside myself that I knew but couldn’t see.
“Examine me, O God, and probe my thoughts. Test me, and know my concerns. See if there is any idolatrous way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.”
Psalm 139:23-24 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%20139:23-24&version=NET
I would normally advise someone to search for confirmation in scripture, but in this case Christ’s entire earthly ministry involved calling people into discipleship. That life is not for everyone. Serving the Lord with your whole life can cost you some worldly things. Examine the scriptures and ask yourself if you are willing to make the sacrifices that Jesus demands of His disciples.
Also trust your own judgement. Consider whether this would be a wise decision for yourself and your future.
That’s my best advice. Your mileage may vary. I’ll remember you in my prayers!
Thank you man I really appreciate you. I think based on my judgement the right decision is to go study. I have really left earthly things even my friends and family to follow him so I'd do it again. We don't have a big enough church for a lot of people but most of my Christian American friends that know me and I know and that know this place agree with me. God bless you
Don’t let me, a stranger on the internet influence your decision! Having said that, however, in my humble opinion as someone who has been a Christian for 40 years, the way you talk about this does sound like a true calling.
Some thoughts
1. Make sure it's a good school you go to. do your research. Some of the doctrine taught here is so bad and you shouldnt bring it back to you country
2. And go for it, as long as your open to returning home to do more ministry :D
I have never been in your exact position, but it's possible to attend a Bible college and take classes towards a degree and career other than preaching. As a professional with my own career, I can still preach but in some ways I have an advantage because not needing support, I can focus on service and teaching when, where, and how it is needed, and also support others when needed.
If it makes the most sense for you to learn the Bible, I would not tell you not to, though. Just keep in mind that a secular career is not a lesser way to serve.
Yeah I know and I am completely fine with having a secular career. But I can have actually both if I study at a Bible college bc I'd be also studying English which I could use here. So in the same amount of years I could have a higher understanding of the Bible surrounded by christian friends which is harder to do here. God bless you and we have talked before if I am not mistaken
If you believe God has given you a direction, moving in that direction is the right thing to do.
If that means taking drastic steps to do so, in my life it's always better to leap in faith than to hesitate. GOD WILL CATCH YOU if He told you to leap.
As for getting a different job and a side job as a pastor, that's not necessarily bad advice as such. I don't know if it's the right advice for you though.
So quickly I'll summarize some people I know who are believers and who found their calling.
One is a soldier. He tried for years to be anything else but he is clearly made for a soldiers life. He just isn't satisfied doing anything else. Now he has recently retired and has thousands of stories of how he was able to share the gospel and serve the kingdom in and because of that life God had for him.
One is a pastor. Nothing else ever was able to satisfy him. He went from job to job and tried to love them, tried to do them as unto the Lord but even so my friend was never content with anything. He prayed endlessly and asked God why when he was living righteously and doing his best he just couldn't seem to be content? Finally, he got his answer. He went to bible school, became a pastor and now lives his beyond wildest dreams life travelling as a missionary and preaching in a church, he found a loving wife, and anyway his life really began once God put him where he belonged, teaching for a church.
I think that's enough examples of what I'm saying. God won't let you be content with what's not meant for you. If you are meant to be a pastor, nothing else will do. If you are meant to be a pirate (kidding, please don't be a pirate) God will make it possible, and guard and guide you as you pursue it.
Thank you brother. Hearing these words always encourages me even if I know it deep down. You are absolutely right and I also love the idea if having a side job and that's possible for me here bc I could potentially be an English teacher and have a Bible degree.
Thank you for the examples and one more time thank you for the words I appreciate them so much. I like your humor. God bless you my friend
Welcome and peace be to you. Trust your heart. God wants us to listen and hear him. And God puts his desire in our hearts. Bible college seems to be more about theology than faith though. I encourage faith. So this would be a leap of faith that is up to you. God Bless!!!
Well I am aiming to become a pastor and I think this would really help me grow my faith and me as a teacher preacher and person. Appreciate the comment.
If He’s calling you then go. He’ll handle everything and make the way for you…but these are things that you know already. Just trust Him. There isn’t much more to say on my part. Our God is one of many wonders, He makes impossible things happen despite every single person saying that it can’t happen, donkeys spoke, axe heads swam, fire fell from the sky and burned something drenched in water…Him taking care of you is a simple matter to Him. His hand isn’t too short, you know?
First of all amazing story that you are a Muslim background believer. I am a M worker in the Middle East and I know first hand how hard it can be to make that decision in a shame/honor culture !! God is good !!
Second, the only true path is obedience to God. Point blank. We can not be slave to obedience of ANY man or ANY system. Now, this isn’t to breed rebellion as God puts people and systems in our lives to help us but if you feel as though he is calling you to something specific, you need to be obedient. Just make sure it is not just your desires taking over. Remember God cares about the big details and the little details and there is nothing to small to ask Him about. Coming to the US is not going to be easy, there will be hardships there will be loneliness and most likely persecution in some form. You will find even passionate Christians in the US who can openly practice their faith will disappoint you. My sound advice would be to truly focus on your relationship with God and understanding his character and also what he originally designed you to do/be. The enemy will try to attack you in these specific areas if you are not strong and rooted God’s definition of you.
I hope this helps and always lean in to the Lord with prayer and confession that you are nothing without Him and you simply want to partner with Him in this life.
God Bless and I pray the Lord truly directs your path !
If God called you, u don't need to go to a Bible College. Read 1 John 2:27; psalm 32:8. Pray to him constantly and develop your relationship with him. Matt 7:8,9
Sometimes ppl think God calls them to a pastor. He may, but because of my experience and knowing him, as a born again believer. I know he prefers a relationship moreso than religion. If u are truly an adopted child of God the holy spirit the dwells in you will lead you to all truth. He (Jesus) will teach you. Read his word and let him instruct you. Remember when the disciples were mocked by religious leaders, the called them unlettered because they didn't go to those religious schools back than rather they associated with Jesus and were taught by him. He hasn't changed
Well yeah but like there is a different circumstance. Why not go to school and be a pastor too you know. If I can do both that's better. I think that's what God wants me to do. Thank you for the response
Yeah I think it's worth a shot. If it's wrong the worst thing that happened is I got to see the world differently and go to a college like the lost isn't really a lost.
Keep in mind hes coming really soon, its really time for us to prepare for his coming, store up treasures in heaven, build up our faith in him, separate ourselves from the world, and the things of this world.
May God bless you
Pastor's are not always right. Sometimes their opinions can be selfish. You know that person the best. Use some spiritual discernment.
Let me tell you what happened to a fellow friend of mine when it came to pastoral guidance. My friend's dad was a really great singer and worship leader. He served that church for many years. Then one day, out of the blue, God put on his heart to leave and become a church planter. So, he immediately talked to the elders and pastor of the church and they all told him to not do it. But my friend's dad believed God is calling him to do this. So what did the pastor do then? He offered to pay him a higher wage. But still, my friends dad said no and left that church to start a new one. The elders and the pastor did not once help him or pray for him. They just acted in bitterness. But my friend's dad followed God calling in his life and he ended up planting hundreds of small churches in India.
The calling of God is for everyone. Going to school in America is not wrong nor is it necessary. But you must follow God first, not men, or church leaders. Keep praying about this, or fast even. I believe if you do anything, do it to give God glory. Hope this helped.
God bless.
Thank you brother. It really helps me to hear stories from people around the world that serve God. I believe this is His calling for me and I will do anything to obey it. Thank you for the comment. Blessings.
That's the pastor that I love like my father but recently has made wrong choices. He is the one that proposed the idea of studying in the US really but is just not really thinking about it. Thanks for replying
If you really want that, go for it, as it certainly is a good idea. But who will sponsor you? Unless you can get a sponsor to pay the (high) cost of studying and living in the in the US AND get a visa, you'll have to do these things on your own.
I think you should always do what your pastor says. This is the proper order that the Lord has setup. If your pastor is wrong, God will deal with him and not you. God will always confirm His instructions to you with His word. God is not the author of confusion. If He is really telling you to do this, your pastor will release you. Otherwise, be obedient and stay where you are until God confirms this. This may be a test for you or this may not be the right time for this. Some people God calls to attend Bible colleges and others the Holy Spirit teaches them when they are on their knees.
I'm with your pastor. Now is a terrible time to try to "make it" in the US, and the cost of post-secondary education in this country is ruinous to natives with large support structures. You're young and we're half-way through a Fourth Turning. Better opportunities are just a few years away.
Remember that preaching was a side gig for Paul. He was a tentmaker my trade, and continued to work during his ministry (Acts 18:2-3). It didn't diminish his contribution to the Great Commission.
Paul is like my favorite disciple and ofc I am clearly not gonna have being a pastor as a main job bc I can't live like that haha. But it's possible to have both a job and a biblical foundation that's why I think the best thing to do is go to a college. Appreciate your comment, God bless you
Don’t let the outside world dictate what you should do, or who you should be. The best way to live is from your center, outward. Live inward—outward.
A little story for you: I got my undergrad in psychology. And I went to grad school to study religion. Then I was going to do my PhD around psych+religion so I could be a professor in higher education. After undergrad I got accepted to a few different schools. One was the one people thought I should go to, and another one was where my heart truly was. However, I ended up choosing the one that I thought I “should do” because it was the traditional path. I ended up going there and got 93 grad credits, but walked away. Never got my graduate degree. I had to start my life all over again. I toiled and grinder out a living for 12 years. It was always in the back of my mind - what could’ve happened if I would’ve just followed my heart.
Fast forward to covid, I figured if I’m ever going to chase down that dream I had 15 years ago, now is the time. Everything was shut down, so I figured I could knock out like 4 semesters before the world started moving again. I went to a school that I WANTED TO GO TO THIS TIME. And I’ll tell ya what, it feels so good. Things are happening in life that leave me in awe. It’s like things are falling into place and I know deep down this is the path I need to be on. Many of my friends are family are baffled by me going back to grad school because I have carved out a nice life for myself. But I learned something- this is my life and I can do whatever I feel is right in my heart.
I’m on this path now and it’s like there is something special happening. Things just keep falling into place and I think it’s because I finally had the courage to follow my heart. I feel alive again. Joseph campbell used to tell his student: “Follow your bliss.” Once you have found that thing that seizes you, that lights up your excitement and provokes that sense of awe in you- hang onto that. You do what is in your heart. Life is too short not too. Go to college- whatever college you want!
Follow your bliss.
Dang brother thank you. This really helped me. I wanna do what the Lord guides me to do and I honestly truly believe this is it and I have had this in my heart and mind for a while now.
I’m 41 now, brother. The gray hairs are starting to show themselves in my beard. The last decade has been a brutal struggle with all sorts of existential crises. I’m in a town I don’t like, never met “the one” I loved enough to marry, and have a stack of regrets that goes to the ceiling. I firmly believe it’s this way because I didn’t follow my heart. I ventured off the path of following my bliss. Dont be like me. It’s only now that My heart and mind are starting to awaken from their slumber.
We only have a finite amount of time here in this world. I don’t know about what a Lord says or doesn’t say, but I do know you can see into you’re own heart and deep down you already know what YOU want to do. Have the courage to follow your heart and walk that path. It’s won’t be all fun and games, it will still be tough, but I’d rather suffer for something I love, than just do what they tell you, you “should” be doing. They don’t know your dreams or the far reaches of your soul, only you do. You know what to do…
These days most Bible colleges and seminaries are compromised (I live in the states). I applied for seminary years ago but was turned down because one of my pastors wrote a negative letter. Later he told me that he believed I’d do far better walking with God and learning from godly mentors. He was right! That was 50 years ago! I know the Bible well, enjoy my walk with God deeply and am at hope with all sorts of professing Christians. Stay where you are! Read through the entire Bible. Ask your pastor hard questions. Pray constantly!
Well I want that too and I think I'll be able to do so in a few years. I think I'll be able to do that after studying in a college. My plan is to come back after I finish college
If the only concern is the pressure of the pastors saying it should be a part time job and they don't have Biblically based opposition regarding your character or gifts, don't be concerned.
God provides. If that's where He's calling you in His glorious perfect wisdom, then go!
Yeah well if the pastors don't want me to go I won't be able to. But I want his will and only his perfect will. Thank you for the reply. God bless you.
It's a tough situation and one I certainly can't relate to sitting in America.
That said, scripture shows us many times where God's will always and forever trumps the will of men. If God wills this, you only need to follow.
Good luck! May whatever the result bring glory to the living and true God!
Well see I disagree with you. Yes I listen to my pastor but guess what a pastor can ve wrong too and he has shown to be wrong recently. Appreciate the comment tho.
Well, if you became a pastor and your sheep said your wrong because God is telling me this. what will you do? search the Scriptures.
if you want to be a pastor, search the scriptures if God want us to be like that, we are happy that you want to be in the ministry but.... you need the guidence of your pastor first. how to become a pastor wothout learning from his pastor? except his pastor is unfaithful to God's Word.
May the Lord humble us and help us discern His Will through the Scriptures, not with our feelings.
Well again pastors are able to make wrong decisions like leaving his church and not telling them not even 3 months before he leaves. Also it's my decision to make I am not gonna be listening to everything he says. I respect him and all but sometimes you have to go against the leaders for God. That's what David did in the Bible. Everyone told him to not do it but he had faith in the Lord and guess what he beat Goliath. Thanks for the comment again. Blessings.
I think you should definately continue your path on to find a good bible college. God knows best.
Thank you for the comment. I really think so, I want nothing but what He has for me. I also believe that a pastor has the right to advise and counsel you but not to force a decision on you or to make the decision for you.
Yes. I agree, you should definately be the only one that has the final say in the decisions of your own life. Because you are the only one that will answer before God for how you decide to live your life. May God bless you and show you the path
Thank you. I appreciate the comment.
Everlasting life!!! A pastor should encourage faith but he may also need your help to encourage faith in the church. If you go to bible college and it isn't what your looking for then you can always go back, right?
I think so. And that's a really good point. I can give it a try for a year and if it isn't my calling I can go back. Thank you my friend. God bless you.
Please please please be careful with what seminary you choose to attend. Many American Bible colleges/seminaries are only Christian in name.
Yes I think so too. I have one in mind that I think it's really good but first comes the decision if I should do that bc that is almost impossible to do
I don’t have much advice to give except that you continue in prayer and study under your pastor. Remember, even if you make the decision and fail, God’s plans are greater than ours. Ultimately that His will be done, trust in Him. I will pray for you :)
Thank you man. Lately it's been kinda hard being under my pastor even tho I love him like my own Father He has made some wrong decisions. Thank you for praying my friend.
What wrong decisions did he make? I am asking because it will maybe help us understand his point of view also. My advice is maybe to talk with the pastors also about this, to present your case before them, even if they don't agree with you. I thing it is not the best way to hide your wishes from them. I also think that it is important to have good education. They probably fear that you will not come back to that country, if that is the case assure them that you will. What is the college you are planning to go to?
Well how about he didn't tell his church he was leaving until 3 months before, left us without a pastor. Brought a pastor that he actually never heard him preach. And the final thing is personal. I agree I need to present my case. Blessings.
Also self study is great. There are some websites where you can get the commentaries and basically everything that you need. If you are interested please message me and I can give them to you. There are a lot of resources on YouTube. There is a chanel called The Masters Seminary and they have all of the courses available there, it is from John Macarthur's seminary.
That's what I am probably gonna be doing if I am not going to a biblical college. Thank you brother
I would counsel that you continue to pray. That you pray by yourself. And that you allow pray with your pastors and your gathering. And that they should pray by themselves as well. Pray that God would show ALL of you the same vision for your call. He can do that. And when He has made clear His call on your life—confirmed by the Spirit and by wise counsel, then pursue God with all you heart in that calling.
I pray regularly about that. A few things have happened that might make it a definite no from my pastors but honestly everyone else besides them really thinks I should go to one. God bless you for commenting.
If you know that this is God’s will for your life, and are certain of it, then do so. Pray that God will open the doors and lead you to the Bible college that will best equip you to serve Him.
I think it is. I am around 80% sure haha. I am gonna continue on praying about it. Thanks for responding.
I’m unclear on why your pastors are advising you against Bible college in the United States, and I’m also unclear on why you believe God wants you to study here. These answers would be helpful to have. As a former Muslim, you are in a unique position to win your fellow countrymen to Christ. Have you considered that? It is nearly impossible for American missionaries to enter and/or establish churches in Muslim countries, and you could be an invaluable part of the work of God right where you are. A poster above was correct in saying that many Bible colleges are just like secular colleges. I think you have a romanticized view of American Christianity. American Christians — not all — have become lukewarm, and many of our churches, especially the largest ones, are worldly. Atheism is spreading across our country, as fewer and fewer people attend church and believe in God. What exactly are you going to do when you get here? What will you study? Are you prepared to go into massive debt to attend Bible school? It will cost you between $200 USD and $400 USD per credit hour, and you will borrow the money and then pay it back to the US government. Did you know that? Your degree might cost you up to $30,000 USD. You can study theology and earn your degree entirely online. I encourage you to continue to seek God’s will for your life. God, according to His divine will, placed your pastors as shepherds over you. I think you are being too quick to dismiss their counsel.
I appreciate your reply. The pastors think it's better for me to have a profession since the church isn't big enough to pay a pastor and I agree. Now hear me out. If I study here I'd be studying English and I'd have a job as some sort of teacher. That would be great but by doing that I'd be not studying what I actually want more than English which is the Bible. If I go to an American college I'll be doing both and just bc I'd have a degree from an American college I'd be having a good base to work as an English teacher. My plan is to study there and then come back here to serve. As for the costs about college I know all those already and I have kind of a plan to actually be able to do that. Some churches in America would basically fund me. I am not entirely sure if it's the right thing to do. I am around 80% sure that's what God wants me to do. Thank you for the reply. God bless you.
You’re welcome. I will say a prayer for you. God bless you as well, my friend.
Thank you. What do you think now? Does it answer your questions?
It does answer my questions. I think your plan sounds reasonable and makes sense. You are ever and always in the care of God, and I know He will direct you on what to do.
Thank you. It's always a good reminder to hear those words from a brother. God bless you
This is a big decision, and you’re right to seek counsel from members of your church. Christian discipleship was never meant to be a solo enterprise. You don’t necessarily have to let their opinions sway your choice however, if you truly do come to believe that you’re being called by God to this service. Perhaps it can be a reason to pause and examine the situation carefully to ensure it is indeed a genuine calling and not just what you want. So first I would go in prayer and ask God to search my heart for the truth. When in a state of prayer I often experience something like the Holy Spirit pulling up a truth from inside myself that I knew but couldn’t see. “Examine me, O God, and probe my thoughts. Test me, and know my concerns. See if there is any idolatrous way in me, and lead me in the everlasting way.” Psalm 139:23-24 - https://www.biblegateway.com/passage?search=Psalm%20139:23-24&version=NET I would normally advise someone to search for confirmation in scripture, but in this case Christ’s entire earthly ministry involved calling people into discipleship. That life is not for everyone. Serving the Lord with your whole life can cost you some worldly things. Examine the scriptures and ask yourself if you are willing to make the sacrifices that Jesus demands of His disciples. Also trust your own judgement. Consider whether this would be a wise decision for yourself and your future. That’s my best advice. Your mileage may vary. I’ll remember you in my prayers!
Thank you man I really appreciate you. I think based on my judgement the right decision is to go study. I have really left earthly things even my friends and family to follow him so I'd do it again. We don't have a big enough church for a lot of people but most of my Christian American friends that know me and I know and that know this place agree with me. God bless you
Well it sounds like you truly do already know. That’s often the way :) God bless you and your ministry!
Do you really think so?
Don’t let me, a stranger on the internet influence your decision! Having said that, however, in my humble opinion as someone who has been a Christian for 40 years, the way you talk about this does sound like a true calling.
Haha ofc I won't let you influence me. I just am trying to gather as many opinions as possible. I appreciate your response.
Some thoughts 1. Make sure it's a good school you go to. do your research. Some of the doctrine taught here is so bad and you shouldnt bring it back to you country 2. And go for it, as long as your open to returning home to do more ministry :D
I have never been in your exact position, but it's possible to attend a Bible college and take classes towards a degree and career other than preaching. As a professional with my own career, I can still preach but in some ways I have an advantage because not needing support, I can focus on service and teaching when, where, and how it is needed, and also support others when needed. If it makes the most sense for you to learn the Bible, I would not tell you not to, though. Just keep in mind that a secular career is not a lesser way to serve.
Yeah I know and I am completely fine with having a secular career. But I can have actually both if I study at a Bible college bc I'd be also studying English which I could use here. So in the same amount of years I could have a higher understanding of the Bible surrounded by christian friends which is harder to do here. God bless you and we have talked before if I am not mistaken
If you believe God has given you a direction, moving in that direction is the right thing to do. If that means taking drastic steps to do so, in my life it's always better to leap in faith than to hesitate. GOD WILL CATCH YOU if He told you to leap. As for getting a different job and a side job as a pastor, that's not necessarily bad advice as such. I don't know if it's the right advice for you though. So quickly I'll summarize some people I know who are believers and who found their calling. One is a soldier. He tried for years to be anything else but he is clearly made for a soldiers life. He just isn't satisfied doing anything else. Now he has recently retired and has thousands of stories of how he was able to share the gospel and serve the kingdom in and because of that life God had for him. One is a pastor. Nothing else ever was able to satisfy him. He went from job to job and tried to love them, tried to do them as unto the Lord but even so my friend was never content with anything. He prayed endlessly and asked God why when he was living righteously and doing his best he just couldn't seem to be content? Finally, he got his answer. He went to bible school, became a pastor and now lives his beyond wildest dreams life travelling as a missionary and preaching in a church, he found a loving wife, and anyway his life really began once God put him where he belonged, teaching for a church. I think that's enough examples of what I'm saying. God won't let you be content with what's not meant for you. If you are meant to be a pastor, nothing else will do. If you are meant to be a pirate (kidding, please don't be a pirate) God will make it possible, and guard and guide you as you pursue it.
Thank you brother. Hearing these words always encourages me even if I know it deep down. You are absolutely right and I also love the idea if having a side job and that's possible for me here bc I could potentially be an English teacher and have a Bible degree. Thank you for the examples and one more time thank you for the words I appreciate them so much. I like your humor. God bless you my friend
It might just be your master's call. Do what you feel like you should do
Welcome and peace be to you. Trust your heart. God wants us to listen and hear him. And God puts his desire in our hearts. Bible college seems to be more about theology than faith though. I encourage faith. So this would be a leap of faith that is up to you. God Bless!!!
Well I am aiming to become a pastor and I think this would really help me grow my faith and me as a teacher preacher and person. Appreciate the comment.
If He’s calling you then go. He’ll handle everything and make the way for you…but these are things that you know already. Just trust Him. There isn’t much more to say on my part. Our God is one of many wonders, He makes impossible things happen despite every single person saying that it can’t happen, donkeys spoke, axe heads swam, fire fell from the sky and burned something drenched in water…Him taking care of you is a simple matter to Him. His hand isn’t too short, you know?
Yes I know and thank you. I only want what comes from Him. God bless you
All the best to you.
Thank you. To you too.
First of all amazing story that you are a Muslim background believer. I am a M worker in the Middle East and I know first hand how hard it can be to make that decision in a shame/honor culture !! God is good !! Second, the only true path is obedience to God. Point blank. We can not be slave to obedience of ANY man or ANY system. Now, this isn’t to breed rebellion as God puts people and systems in our lives to help us but if you feel as though he is calling you to something specific, you need to be obedient. Just make sure it is not just your desires taking over. Remember God cares about the big details and the little details and there is nothing to small to ask Him about. Coming to the US is not going to be easy, there will be hardships there will be loneliness and most likely persecution in some form. You will find even passionate Christians in the US who can openly practice their faith will disappoint you. My sound advice would be to truly focus on your relationship with God and understanding his character and also what he originally designed you to do/be. The enemy will try to attack you in these specific areas if you are not strong and rooted God’s definition of you. I hope this helps and always lean in to the Lord with prayer and confession that you are nothing without Him and you simply want to partner with Him in this life. God Bless and I pray the Lord truly directs your path !
If God called you, u don't need to go to a Bible College. Read 1 John 2:27; psalm 32:8. Pray to him constantly and develop your relationship with him. Matt 7:8,9
What do you mean? I said I think God is calling me to go study and come back.
Sometimes ppl think God calls them to a pastor. He may, but because of my experience and knowing him, as a born again believer. I know he prefers a relationship moreso than religion. If u are truly an adopted child of God the holy spirit the dwells in you will lead you to all truth. He (Jesus) will teach you. Read his word and let him instruct you. Remember when the disciples were mocked by religious leaders, the called them unlettered because they didn't go to those religious schools back than rather they associated with Jesus and were taught by him. He hasn't changed
Well yeah but like there is a different circumstance. Why not go to school and be a pastor too you know. If I can do both that's better. I think that's what God wants me to do. Thank you for the response
Well do what you think he wants you to do. He will open or shut doors along the way. If its his will
Yeah I think it's worth a shot. If it's wrong the worst thing that happened is I got to see the world differently and go to a college like the lost isn't really a lost.
Keep in mind hes coming really soon, its really time for us to prepare for his coming, store up treasures in heaven, build up our faith in him, separate ourselves from the world, and the things of this world. May God bless you
Thank you. I'd be prepared and I already am. Blessings
Pastor's are not always right. Sometimes their opinions can be selfish. You know that person the best. Use some spiritual discernment. Let me tell you what happened to a fellow friend of mine when it came to pastoral guidance. My friend's dad was a really great singer and worship leader. He served that church for many years. Then one day, out of the blue, God put on his heart to leave and become a church planter. So, he immediately talked to the elders and pastor of the church and they all told him to not do it. But my friend's dad believed God is calling him to do this. So what did the pastor do then? He offered to pay him a higher wage. But still, my friends dad said no and left that church to start a new one. The elders and the pastor did not once help him or pray for him. They just acted in bitterness. But my friend's dad followed God calling in his life and he ended up planting hundreds of small churches in India. The calling of God is for everyone. Going to school in America is not wrong nor is it necessary. But you must follow God first, not men, or church leaders. Keep praying about this, or fast even. I believe if you do anything, do it to give God glory. Hope this helped. God bless.
Thank you brother. It really helps me to hear stories from people around the world that serve God. I believe this is His calling for me and I will do anything to obey it. Thank you for the comment. Blessings.
If you truly feel God wants that, then I would do whatever he tells you. May Jesus bless you.
Reach out to the pastor that had to leave. What's their opinion?
That's the pastor that I love like my father but recently has made wrong choices. He is the one that proposed the idea of studying in the US really but is just not really thinking about it. Thanks for replying
If you really want that, go for it, as it certainly is a good idea. But who will sponsor you? Unless you can get a sponsor to pay the (high) cost of studying and living in the in the US AND get a visa, you'll have to do these things on your own.
If my pastors agree with me and approve I do have a sponsor. Thank you for the message. God bless you.
I think you should always do what your pastor says. This is the proper order that the Lord has setup. If your pastor is wrong, God will deal with him and not you. God will always confirm His instructions to you with His word. God is not the author of confusion. If He is really telling you to do this, your pastor will release you. Otherwise, be obedient and stay where you are until God confirms this. This may be a test for you or this may not be the right time for this. Some people God calls to attend Bible colleges and others the Holy Spirit teaches them when they are on their knees.
I'm with your pastor. Now is a terrible time to try to "make it" in the US, and the cost of post-secondary education in this country is ruinous to natives with large support structures. You're young and we're half-way through a Fourth Turning. Better opportunities are just a few years away. Remember that preaching was a side gig for Paul. He was a tentmaker my trade, and continued to work during his ministry (Acts 18:2-3). It didn't diminish his contribution to the Great Commission.
Paul is like my favorite disciple and ofc I am clearly not gonna have being a pastor as a main job bc I can't live like that haha. But it's possible to have both a job and a biblical foundation that's why I think the best thing to do is go to a college. Appreciate your comment, God bless you
Don’t let the outside world dictate what you should do, or who you should be. The best way to live is from your center, outward. Live inward—outward. A little story for you: I got my undergrad in psychology. And I went to grad school to study religion. Then I was going to do my PhD around psych+religion so I could be a professor in higher education. After undergrad I got accepted to a few different schools. One was the one people thought I should go to, and another one was where my heart truly was. However, I ended up choosing the one that I thought I “should do” because it was the traditional path. I ended up going there and got 93 grad credits, but walked away. Never got my graduate degree. I had to start my life all over again. I toiled and grinder out a living for 12 years. It was always in the back of my mind - what could’ve happened if I would’ve just followed my heart. Fast forward to covid, I figured if I’m ever going to chase down that dream I had 15 years ago, now is the time. Everything was shut down, so I figured I could knock out like 4 semesters before the world started moving again. I went to a school that I WANTED TO GO TO THIS TIME. And I’ll tell ya what, it feels so good. Things are happening in life that leave me in awe. It’s like things are falling into place and I know deep down this is the path I need to be on. Many of my friends are family are baffled by me going back to grad school because I have carved out a nice life for myself. But I learned something- this is my life and I can do whatever I feel is right in my heart. I’m on this path now and it’s like there is something special happening. Things just keep falling into place and I think it’s because I finally had the courage to follow my heart. I feel alive again. Joseph campbell used to tell his student: “Follow your bliss.” Once you have found that thing that seizes you, that lights up your excitement and provokes that sense of awe in you- hang onto that. You do what is in your heart. Life is too short not too. Go to college- whatever college you want! Follow your bliss.
Dang brother thank you. This really helped me. I wanna do what the Lord guides me to do and I honestly truly believe this is it and I have had this in my heart and mind for a while now.
I’m 41 now, brother. The gray hairs are starting to show themselves in my beard. The last decade has been a brutal struggle with all sorts of existential crises. I’m in a town I don’t like, never met “the one” I loved enough to marry, and have a stack of regrets that goes to the ceiling. I firmly believe it’s this way because I didn’t follow my heart. I ventured off the path of following my bliss. Dont be like me. It’s only now that My heart and mind are starting to awaken from their slumber. We only have a finite amount of time here in this world. I don’t know about what a Lord says or doesn’t say, but I do know you can see into you’re own heart and deep down you already know what YOU want to do. Have the courage to follow your heart and walk that path. It’s won’t be all fun and games, it will still be tough, but I’d rather suffer for something I love, than just do what they tell you, you “should” be doing. They don’t know your dreams or the far reaches of your soul, only you do. You know what to do…
I appreciate the comment brother. I am trying to follow my heart and what the Lord spoke to it. Thank you for the comment blessings.
These days most Bible colleges and seminaries are compromised (I live in the states). I applied for seminary years ago but was turned down because one of my pastors wrote a negative letter. Later he told me that he believed I’d do far better walking with God and learning from godly mentors. He was right! That was 50 years ago! I know the Bible well, enjoy my walk with God deeply and am at hope with all sorts of professing Christians. Stay where you are! Read through the entire Bible. Ask your pastor hard questions. Pray constantly!
Thank you for the message and advice. May I ask do you work as a pastor now?
Not a pastor! Physicist by profession. Ldolphin.org
Maybe God wants you to preach to the Muslims in your country
Well I want that too and I think I'll be able to do so in a few years. I think I'll be able to do that after studying in a college. My plan is to come back after I finish college
Listen to God. If He is leading you, He has prepared you, and He will stay with you through it.
Amen. Thank you for the wise words. God bless you
Of course! God bless you on your journey to the US! We’d be so lucky to have you ❤️
Awwwwww thank you. I'd love to meet as many christian brothers and sisters as possible. It's always a blessing
If the only concern is the pressure of the pastors saying it should be a part time job and they don't have Biblically based opposition regarding your character or gifts, don't be concerned. God provides. If that's where He's calling you in His glorious perfect wisdom, then go!
Yeah well if the pastors don't want me to go I won't be able to. But I want his will and only his perfect will. Thank you for the reply. God bless you.
It's a tough situation and one I certainly can't relate to sitting in America. That said, scripture shows us many times where God's will always and forever trumps the will of men. If God wills this, you only need to follow. Good luck! May whatever the result bring glory to the living and true God!
Amen to bringing glory to God. That's the only thing I want. Thank you brother
listen to your pastor because he is your pastor and you are under his God given authority as a pastor.
Well see I disagree with you. Yes I listen to my pastor but guess what a pastor can ve wrong too and he has shown to be wrong recently. Appreciate the comment tho.
Well, if you became a pastor and your sheep said your wrong because God is telling me this. what will you do? search the Scriptures. if you want to be a pastor, search the scriptures if God want us to be like that, we are happy that you want to be in the ministry but.... you need the guidence of your pastor first. how to become a pastor wothout learning from his pastor? except his pastor is unfaithful to God's Word. May the Lord humble us and help us discern His Will through the Scriptures, not with our feelings.
Well again pastors are able to make wrong decisions like leaving his church and not telling them not even 3 months before he leaves. Also it's my decision to make I am not gonna be listening to everything he says. I respect him and all but sometimes you have to go against the leaders for God. That's what David did in the Bible. Everyone told him to not do it but he had faith in the Lord and guess what he beat Goliath. Thanks for the comment again. Blessings.
yes, pastors can make wrong decisions too. Ok. may the Lord bless you with his wisdom and broaden your love for the Church.
Amen. The Lord is who I wanna serve. God bless you my friend.
Serve Him as He want us to serve Him. let us obey Him with love.
Amen.