By Hanna Estes, Ministry Team Member • ABS at the University of Arkansas
“Or what woman, having ten silver coins, if she loses one coin, does not light a lamp and sweep the house and seek diligently until she finds it? And when she has found it, she calls together her friends and neighbors, saying, ‘Rejoice with me, for I have found the coin that I had lost.’ Just so, I tell you, there is joy before the angels of God over one sinner who repents” (Luke 15:8-10 ESV).
Let’s start with the kind of news that gets even the angels to celebrate! Two of the young men Stuart has been working with have come to Christ this semester! It has been such a joy to see these relationships blossom over the last few months.
We are incredibly thankful to be a part of this work. We are also deeply grateful to you, our supporters. Each day, we are reminded that we couldn’t do this without you.
Small Groups & Big Conversations
The two new study groups I mentioned in the last newsletter have been going very well. I’m especially excited about the conversations happening in one particular group. At the start of the semester, I didn’t know either of these girls very well, and our first few meetings were a little awkward as we got to know one another. But the third week, we had a breakthrough! In our study, we found that although each of them had put their faith in Christ in the past, their assurance in the security of their salvation had been shaken since they started college.
We’ve noticed this is actually a common struggle among the Christian students we’ve been working with. Stuart has had similar conversations with several young men. To help, we’ve been using a Security of the Believer lesson from Via Students, which guides students through passages like John 10:25-30, Eph. 2:1-10 and I John 5:11-13. What we’re seeing is that when students remember that it is by grace they are saved through faith — not their own works — the joy of their salvation is restored.
This renewed joy is such a blessing to witness. Just last night, after I had already written the preceding paragraphs, this group of girls even reached out to plan what they want to study next! I am so excited to see their desire to grow as disciples and their hunger for the Word.
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me. Cast me not away from your presence, and take not your Holy Spirit from me. Restore to me the joy of your salvation, and uphold me with a willing spirit” (Psalm 51:10-12).
Fundraising Updates
I also wanted to give you a quick update on fundraising and the amazing ways God has been providing. At the end of September, 44% of my monthly support was covered. With October looming, I needed to reach 50% to meet the goal we agreed on with the board. That week, I prayed for God to give me wisdom in contacting potential supporters, and for Him to provide in ways I could in no way take the glory for. The very next week, my percentage jumped to over 60%, thanks to three new financial supporters. The amazing part is that I had not reached out to any of these families or organizations. Not only did God answer my prayer, but He also far exceeded what I even hoped for. My heart overflows with thankfulness as I continue to see His provision through the generosity of His people.
Immerse Conference
We are very excited to be attending BMA Global’s inaugural Immerse Conference this winter! Designed with college students in mind, this conference will challenge students to use their college years intentionally and live on mission for God.
We can’t wait to see how the Lord will use this experience in the spring and years to come! If you know a college student who might be interested, please feel free to contact me or check out more information at bmaglobal.org/immerse.
Prayer Requests
• Discipling relationships & small groups — for both new Christians and growing disciples.
• To keep making connections with new students.
• Student laborers — for boldness and wisdom as they share the gospel with their friends.
• Fundraising — mostly, praise Him with me for his provision already, but also that we would finish strong and meet our goal by December.
• Wisdom for our ministry team
• Immerse Conference
Thank you for your encouragement, support and prayers. We truly appreciate it!
