Hello, My name is Ruth! In May of this year, I graduated from College of the Ozarks with a Bachelor of Science degree in Child Studies and a minor in Christian Missions. I don't yet know what God wants me to do with my degree, but as I have been seeking His will, He has called me to attend the Kanakuk Institute beginning this Fall. I hope through this experience God will further equip me and provide opportunities for me to apply the gifts and talents He has given me to work for His kingdom.
The Kanakuk Institute is an 8-month-long seminary program designed to equip students to defend their beliefs with scripture, teach them how to disciple others, and build and maintain a Christ-centered community. The Institute "provides a place for young men and women to intensely study the word of God and experience life-change through biblical community and the power of the gospel." Here is the website to learn more about it! About - Kanakuk Institute
Last summer I served as a counselor for Kanakuk Kampout!. It was an amazing experience. The leadership staff on my trail had all attended the Institute, and People from the Institute came and spoke to us during our staff training. I was instantly intrigued by their values and the way they teach their students to defend their beliefs with scripture, and I wanted to know more. Throughout the summer our leadership staff implemented what they had learned into their discipleship with us and in their daily tasks.
One aspect of the Institute that my small group leader encouraged me to practice was reconciling with someone from my past. I was terrified and nervous to do this. With my leader's encouragement and the Lord's guidance, I and that person were successfully reconciled. We were released from the heavy chains that were weighing us down. It was life-changing. Once that happened I began to pray in earnest about the Institute.
Toward the end of the summer, I received a call from one of the Institute staff members who encouraged me to apply. I prayed for direction from God as to whether or not I should attend the Kanakuk Institute and if so, how would the tuition be met. I prayed more and talked to my parents about attending the Kanakuk Institute and discussed ways I would pay for it. I didn't have all the answers, but in faith, I applied and had my interview shortly after.
My interviewer encouraged me to seek God's help and help from those around me to raise funds. Anyone who knows me knows that I hate the idea of asking others for money. This summer, I tried to raise tuition in my own strength through employment, failing to seek help and guidance from the Lord or anyone else. That hasn't gotten me very far. I wrestled with the idea of fund-raising all summer. But God has humbled me, and now I come to you all with open hands and an open heart as I begin this next chapter of my life. Philippians 4:19 says: "And my God will supply every need of yours according to his riches in glory in Christ Jesus." I know that God will show up for us in ways that we never could have expected. As I have grown in my faith and knowledge of the Lord, I have found that when God has a specific plan for my life he will provide a way. With this conviction and with the advice from those whom God has placed in my life, I have decided to reach out for financial help. God is teaching me through humility to depend upon him.
Firstly, I ask that if you feel compelled to do so, please join me in prayer regarding my continued education at the Kanakuk Institute for the next 8 months.
Secondly, I greatly appreciate your financial generosity in any amount should you feel led to give.
Lastly, I want you to see the fruits of your prayer and generosity through updates from me showing you how God is using you to bless me as I serve him and others.
I look forward to answering any questions regarding the Institute or what donating would look like for those wanting more information. You can contact me through my mom's FB messenger as I do not participate in social media at the moment.
Thank you again for your prayers and consideration!
