The flock is large and the shepherds are few
Seminary graduates are equipped with biblical knowledge. Pray that God will bless them with a humble mind so that they will become servants with a pure heart.
You can help young church leaders like Pastor Wan guide and encourage their flocks.
I left the seminary and returned to my home town with a bachelor degree in theology and my own theological and pastoral library. This collection of books was an extraordinary gift. Even if they were available, I could never afford to buy them. Honestly, even if I were able to buy the books I would not have chosen some of them. I loved the preaching guides but I was less enthusiastic about the pastoral and devotional books. My attitude soon changed.
The getting of wisdom
I might be better educated than the people in my care but I quickly realised that I had a lot to learn. Having to deal with difficult relationships among the church team and local officials, together with the economic burden soon left me discouraged and full of negative emotions. This is not what I expected. I felt discouraged and wondered whether I was on the wrong path. I was too embarrassed to ask for help. It was only when I had given up hope that I started to read The Call to Joy and Pain for the first time. The Holy Spirit used this book to renew my vision for ministry. I understood that, each day, I have to nurture my relationship with God and seek his guidance.
Wisdom shared
Previous generations of pastors often devoted themselves to serve the church and neglected their families. This is not what God wants and is counter-productive. How can a pastor shepherd believers when he doesn’t love his wife and children? I want to avoid this mistake.
I am only 22 years old and have never even thought about marriage. Who am I to counsel couples and families? I am proceeding with caution! My copies of Integral Premarital Counselling and Why True Love Waits have become indispensable and well-worn resources.
Applying the theology I learned at the seminary while I prepare sermons and Bible studies for believers is one thing. Using this theology to fight against cults and folk religious beliefs is another. To help people deal with superstitious elements in their faith, I am glad I can consult New Evidence that Demands a Verdict.
Fellow travellers
The books I thought I would never open have become cherished companions. The people who wrote these books and assembled this precious mini library are fellow travellers treading on the same path with me!
Please pray that God will strengthen my heart to serve him. Pray that I will be sensitive to the unique situation of each believer and give practical advice and appropriate spiritual teaching.
Pastor Wan graduated form a seminary in northern China with a bachelor degree in theology.