Shining His Light in Unexpected Places

After a few years in Christian higher education, I felt an unmistakable nudge from God, not just calling me away, but pushing me out of that familiar environment.

I’ve now spent over 30 years in public education, always assuming I’d eventually circle back to Christian academia. But God had a different path for me—one I never would have chosen, but one I now see was perfectly designed.

All I Knew Was to Follow Jesus

The Lord directed me to a mission field I hadn’t recognized at first: the secular university. Looking back, I realize He placed me in a sphere that is increasingly dark, not so I would be hidden, but for me to shine for Him. Proverbs 16:9 says, “A man’s heart plans his way, but the LORD directs his steps.”

I wasn’t a bold evangelist. All I knew was to follow Jesus and to live my faith quietly and consistently—offering to pray for colleagues and students in times of need, being present, listening, and caring.

God Used My Office

For years, I wasn’t sure anyone noticed. But slowly, the Lord began opening doors – colleagues looking for career guidance, struggling in their marriage or with their children, some dealing with secret addictions, even a few directly asking for spiritual guidance.

God used my office as a refuge where burdens were shared and hope was sought. Students and even faculty would come by and say, “I knew you were a person of faith, so I thought I could talk to you.”

His Plan Has Been Better

In those moments, I saw God’s grace at work—not just in others’ lives, but in mine. I was encouraged to see Him using me to minister to both believers and non-believers, to plant seeds, to offer prayer, and sometimes, to share the Good News.

This wasn’t the career I imagined. And maybe, just maybe, God still has a surprise in store for my final chapter. But even if not, I can say with confidence: His plan has been better. More fruitful. More impactful. He has been so, so good.