God’s call often comes when we least expect it. This lieutenant shares how trusting God’s timing and saying “yes” led to a deeper faith, new purpose and the joy of preparing for a life of service.

How did you experience God’s calling to officership?

I was a teenager when I felt God calling me to officership, but it wasn’t until I had graduated from college, gotten married, and begun my first real career that I heard the call once again to leave everything behind and follow His plan for my life. I felt like it was a time where I had to choose if I was going to follow my own path or the one that God laid out in front of me. I told myself that I was too young, I wasn’t the right fit, there were other people who could do a better job than I could, and I wasn’t ready, but God showed me that I didn’t have to be ready, I didn’t have to know everything, and I didn’t have to have it all figured out. I just had to be willing to answer and trust that God knew better. 

What is the greatest joy you experienced as a cadet?

There are so many amazing things about being a cadet, but the greatest joy is that God has stretched me far beyond what I could have ever imagined. He has brought me out of my comfort zone, grown me in so many areas and allowed me to make mistakes and learn from them all within an environment that is supportive and understanding and that wants me to succeed. I have gained so much knowledge, but it’s not just head knowledge; it’s heart knowledge and a deeper understanding of who God is. All this has given me confidence to share God’s love, His Word, and the truth of His grace with boldness. 

What is your advice for someone who feels called to officership but hasn’t yet responded?

Trust in God and trust in His timing. If God is calling you now, don’t wait! God’s timing is perfect and He knows what he is doing. He has chosen you for a reason, so don’t let your doubts, your questions, or your fears hold you back from what God has planned for your life.

Illustration by Richard Chance