By Jim Edge
The Scriptures are filled with examples of times when believers face challenges that seem impossible to overcome and must trust God who is good and is very much in control of the situation. Such an example is found in 2 Kings 3. God’s people were to go to war with the Moabites. In the face of insurmountable odds, Elisha brought encouragement. He promised God’s people victory and assured His people that providing such a victory was an easy task for the Lord (verse 18). As the passage continues, we read that the Lord delivered His people in a great victory. What is incredible is that no one could question that it was God who gave the victory to His people (verse 21-26).
Having started Heritage Park Baptist Church in Boston and pastored the church for almost 30 years, I, my wife, and church learned to rely upon God to work out His plan. Though we as human beings might be tempted to force a solution, if we allow Him, God works through what appears to be impossible circumstances to bring about His solution. In those times, we can only respond with thanksgiving and praise for what he has done. I have learned that it is a very good place to be.
Over the past several months, the college and I have faced what seemed to be impossible circumstances. Yet our Lord brought about His solution through people, institutions, and churches. Some of you may not be aware of those circumstances. Allow me to share several examples. I trust that you will stand in awe of our God and offer prayers of thanksgiving and adoration for who He is and for what He has done on behalf of Baptist Bible College.
During April, I was informed that our bank called in our $2.9 million mortgage as a result of the financial downturn across the country. I regularly go to a local YMCA for exercise. Over time, I developed a friendship with a gentleman who also worked out at the YMCA. I was talking to him one day in June as we were exercising and shared the financial struggles we were experiencing at the college. He mentioned that a local bank might be able to step in and assume the mortgage. That very afternoon the bank president and I began to discuss details about securing a possible loan. I signed the papers on June 26. I later learned that my YMCA friend was on the board of the bank. Who could have imagined this solution? Only God can take what appears to be an impossible circumstance and bring about His solution.
In the spring, projections showed that it would be impossible for the college to pay bills and make payroll throughout the summer. Projections suggested that the shortfall might be as great as $600,000. And yet every employee has been paid on time throughout the summer. Other obligations such as payroll taxes and insurance premiums have been met. The Lord used many pastors who were willing to give sacrificially to meet this challenge. Only God can take what appears to be an impossible circum- Jim Edge | President | Baptist Bible College view from bbc BAPTIST BIBLE COLLEGE stance and bring about His solution.
Recruiting is going well this summer. The Office of Admissions reports that there are 198 applications for the fall semester. Four recruiting teams have been out during the summer promoting BBC in camps and other venues. We received the largest regular monthly offering from churches in the past year and a half during the month of July. Strategic planning continues as we anxiously wait for the fall semester to begin.
No one doubts that the last several months have been stressful, filled with what many might think as insurmountable circumstances. And yet, God can take what appears to be an impossible circumstance and bring about His solution. The ministry of Baptist Bible College continues because of God’s care and provision. I do ask that you might continue to pray for the college. As you pray, I want you to understand that you are praying to our God who can do beyond what we ask or think. We are the beneficiaries of His grace and goodness. May He alone receive the praise and honor for what is happening on the campus of Baptist Bible College.
Opening convocation chapel is Thursday, August 27, at 10:30 a.m. I would be delighted to have all who can possibly make it here on campus for the opening of what will be an outstanding fall semester.