I want to share with you some of David’s story as he prepares for ministry. He writes:

I think of these times as part of my development as a servant of Jesus Christ and how my vision of service to my Lord has expanded as my years of study have passed. When I arrived in 2009, there were so many new things filling my mind. I had excellent teachers and interesting classes. In 2010, I distinctly recall how terribly fast my life was moving. I felt that I needed to take advantage of every moment of every day to fulfill the plan that God has for my life.

The Lord led me very clearly to get involved with missions. This passion set a fire in my heart. I took part in a mission trip during the summer of 2011 to the Philippine Islands. We spent eight weeks there, ministering in many cities and towns. I recall a special meeting we had with former Muslims who had converted to Jesus Christ and were on fire for the Lord. That left a profound impact on my life to this very day. 

After that incredible trip to the other side of the world, I took part in another trip, this time to the state of Chiapas in southern Mexico. We witnessed much persecution in a number of villages in the mountains. Our Christian brothers had suffered greatly, and they continue to pay the price of discipleship. This taught me that I, too, need to be faithful no matter what the circumstances may be. I need to be grateful for God’s blessings in my life. We were able bring a number of tools to help the leaders in the ministry of these persecuted brothers.

Finally, my vision was further clarified through a trip to Paraguay in 2012. I took part in a training program to reach people for Jesus Christ among the unreached peoples of the world. It was beautiful to see the work of the Lord in various parts of the globe, and I felt the challenge that God might be made known to the nations of the world.

Now as graduation draws near, I rejoice to see what the Lord has done and what may be in my future. He is opening doors in a special way, so that I can follow the leading He has put in my heart to reach the unreached. I’m aware that there are a number of steps I need to take before I come to the point that I am ready to leave for the mission field, but I pray that God will continue to reveal His will and confirm that which He has started in my life. I continue to see in a profound way that God is faithful.

Thanks for praying for David as we watch the Lord continue to bless and use this young man for His glory.