Teen Challenge welcomes Amy Bess
God continues to blow my mind in the way he wants to use me. I feel like David Wilkerson sometimes, in the Cross and the Switchblade, “skinny little white kid from the country.” Never had a life-controlling problem or been around those that did, yet God chose me to take part in this much needed ministry. I often think, “Out of everyone, why me?” or “Am I really qualified enough to relate?” But I immediately think back to the story of David; he did not have any exposure to fighting off giants, yet he was willing to go.
I thought I had all my life goals figured out, but I recently gave up those plans. What I learned is that sometimes our plans don’t line up with God’s plans. As a Marketing and Management major at Evangel University from Toledo, Ohio, I thought I was going to become a business guru making the money to support non-profit Christian organizations like Teen Challenge. Money needs to come from somewhere, and I thought I was the person to do it. God had slightly different plans.
It all started on a mission’s trip I took with the Evangel Business Department to Jamaica with the University’s Students In Free Enterprise team. There we worked at the Ocho Rios Teen Challenge Men’s Center. We provided micro-enterprise development ideas and training so they could become a self-sustaining operation. We implemented the business plans we researched and developed throughout the semester. When the men’s choir came up and sang one night, the way they worshipped with their whole hearts, despite everything they have gone through, gave me goosebumps. These men have been through things I cannot even imagine, and Teen Challenge has showed them hope through the Lord. At that moment on the trip, God sparked a calling in me–one that involved both of my passions: business and ministry.
The opportunity to interview at Teen Challenge USA, was brought to my attention through a mentorship with their Business Director, Ted Papit, and his wife, Diana. Two days later I received a call and was offered the job. I can truly say it is absolutely perfect for me. All the glory goes to God! I cannot wait to learn everything I can about this wonderful ministry and the business aspect involved with it. Isaiah 55:9, “Just as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are My ways higher than your ways and My thoughts higher than yours.” God’s plan for one’s life is always better than their own plan. Give up your plans, or the way you think things should end up, and give it to God. His ways are always higher!
I wanted to change lives, and mine is changing in the process.
Welcome aboard! My husband, Eddie, and I have the same calling. We took a ‘leave of absence to pastor and then associate/youth pastor for 5 1/2 years’, but was led back into TC. Total of 17 years for my husband and 14 for me now.
pretty koool!
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pretty kool!
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My niece is on a ‘mission’!!! God bless you, Amy.
Amy,
We are so proud of you, and we’re excited about what God has in store for your future! We love you!
The VanderVluchts :)
Dear Amy,
Your dad sent me the article. Proud to know you, continued success.
Cannot stop smiling after reading your words.