It was towards the end of Bible College that God made me aware of a growing love in me that wasn’t there before. A love for studying the Scriptures. Unbeknownst to some people, I didn’t go to Bible College to become a pastor…I went to college (like most young people) not knowing what I was going to do with my life, so I started as a music student and graduated as a music student. However, at some point, a professor by the name of Jonathan Rinker taught a class on the subject of hermeneutics (how to appropriately study and interpret Scripture) that was instrumental in my decision to go to seminary and study the Bible more…even when I wasn’t sure if I wanted to pursue the pastorate yet!
So here I am, a wife, three kids, a master’s degree, and 3 years of pastoral experience later getting ready to start a doctorate in the spring. How did this happen? Well, I think the core is still a love for studying Scripture. The difference is that there is now a greater sense of purpose that goes beyond ME and what I love to do. Something that helped me investigate these motives further was the task of having to write a letter of intent. What is your intention in pursuing a doctorate degree Miguel? Here’s a little bit of what I wrote to Bob Jones Seminary:
“My intent for joining the program is, ultimately, God’s glory (1 Cor. 10:31). Continual devotion to the study of God’s word is both a task and a privilege (2 Tim. 2:15; Ps. 119:97). Further studies at BJU will aid me in my desire to honor my Lord, as I am very aware that what my wife, children, and flock need the most is a husband, father, and pastor who is more like Christ. My prayer is that my pursuit of this doctoral degree will be a tool in God’s hand that He will use in my sanctification (Jn. 17:17).”
God uses Scripture to make us more like Jesus and this is what the people I lead and influence need the most; a Miguel that is less like him and that is more like Jesus.
How concerned are you about your sanctification or God’s glory when you make decisions? Is it even on your radar? Is sanctification a part of the equation when you are thinking about more education? A potential spouse? Pursuing a promotion? Buying a new house or vehicle? Or is it only your desires that are driving you? Here’s a couple of principles that might help keep your desires in check…these come from Stuart Scott’s book “Biblical Manhood: Masculinity, Leadership and Decision Making.”
• Will this choice be an opportunity for my sinful flesh to seek fulfillment (Romans 13:14; Galatians 5:13; 1 Peter 2:16).
• Will this choice be inconsiderate (self-serving) of someone else (Philippians 2:3–4).
• Will this choice cause someone else to fall into temptation (1 Corinthians 8:9–13).
• Will this lead me toward enslavement or addiction? (1 Corinthians 6:12)
• Does this glorify God in every way (1 Corinthians 10:31).