I was recently accepted to the Wheaton Graduate program (specifically, to the ELIC/Wheaton joint degree program), which was very good news. I scored very well on the MAT and was greatly encouraged by that. I’d also started the application process at Reformed Theological Seminary in Orlando, FL (my first choice, quite honestly).
But today I had to notify them both that I won’t be able to join any programs anywhere this fall - due to my financial situation. Some might call this a lack of faith; I call it responsible financial stewardship.
Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap. Galatians 6:7, ESV
I sowed, and now I must reap.
It’s mostly an issue of conscience–which Paul warns many times about sinning against. I cannot in good conscience apply to a seminary carrying this much debt - much less go fundraising for overseas missions while owing all this money. It’s a hard reality to accept, but I think it’s the right decision. More than that, I’m simply not willing to do that. It’s just wrong. “Owe no man anything.” That obstacle gets cleared out first, then I go on.
So I don’t fully know what that means for the next year, but I’m admittedly a bit bummed about it.
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4 responses so far ↓
1 sabrina // Apr 30, 2005 at 2:13 am
“Some might call this a lack of faith; I call it responsible financial stewardship.”
i would call it a refreshing approach to reality that demonstrates maturity and wisdom.
also, i was unaware of that verse in galatians (in the sense that i never really focused on it before), but i am really glad that you posted it, especially in this context, because it sheds a lot of light on some stuff in my own life. i come from a background where i think the implicit and unspoken message has always been that god will spare us from the unwanted consequences of our actions if we ask him to. my dad will sometimes literally pray over a cheeseburger, asking god to take the fat and “bad-for-you stuff” out of it. i know, yikes. but even as i’ve come to realize that that kind of thinking is clearly wrong, i’ve never really found (or sought, i guess, *embarrased*) a reason why that is based in biblical truth. it was helpful for me to see that message written plainly in the word of god.
also, that does really suck about your financial situation and how it’s hindering you from doing what you feel would move your life forward in the direction in which you want to go; i’m sorry ~ this must be a really frustrating time for you. my prayers are yours.
2 Alli // Apr 30, 2005 at 2:24 am
I’m going to share in your bummed-ness. Aron, I’m sure that was such a hard decision- one that only you can fully understand. Continue being a good steward of what the Lord has given you… I don’t know your financial situation at all, but I trust that when He wants you on the field, he will allow you to go without the accumulating worry (and interest) of debt left in the ‘great state of Maine’. Something to consider- you’re on the field everyday.. take this time to slaughter your debt, but also to share Christ with the lady scanning your groceries. I was reminded today how many people that I come in contact with daily, are crying out for Christ and for genuine community. We don’t need to travel around the world to find desperate, hurting people. They have jobs, family, influence, but are lacking Christ. I share your heart for missions and itch to submerge myself in a culture with those that have never heard the name of Jesus, but I trust that God has me in school right now to prepare my heart and mind so that I might better serve Him… during that time, I’m going to stick with the debit card. My 30 year old friend suggested it ;)
3 Aron // Apr 30, 2005 at 2:45 pm
Thank you both for your kindness…I sincerely appreciate it.
4 Campy // May 2, 2005 at 4:46 pm
Yes, stick with the Debit Card. Remarkable little critters.
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