Failures
Brother Andrew's story teaches us that failure and uncertainty can be opportunities for growth, humility, and obedience to God's plan.
Brother Andrew shares his journey of failures and setbacks as he pursued his calling in ministry. Despite being rejected by the World Evangelization Crusade school and facing debilitating health issues, he chose to leave the school honorably rather than graduate under circumstances that would reflect poorly on the institution. With no degree, no job, and no clear future, he felt compelled to follow a bold vision of attending a Communist youth conference in Poland. His story illustrates the importance of faith and perseverance in the face of adversity, trusting that God has a plan even when our paths seem uncertain.
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In 1953 Andy intended to begin study at the World Evangelization Crusade school in Scotland. Still in Holland, he was informed WEC had no openings. He went to England anyway. His English was not only unintelligible but laughable. After he was finally allowed entrance to the school, within days his back 'went out'. Often he would crumple from excruciating pain and just lie wherever he fell until someone found him. After two years he realized his graduation was going to put the school in a very awkward position. Because of his disability the WEC could not offer him a position as a missionary. Word would spread that the school betrayed its own graduates. Andy loved the school and its mission. There was only one honorable thing to do.
Andy left without graduating.
At the age of 27 he returned to Holland with no degree, no position, no money and no future plans - other than a wild notion of going behind the Iron Curtain to a youth conference in Poland - a Communist youth conference at that!
Sermon Outline
- Introduction to Failure
- The Reality of Failure
- The Decision to Fail
- Conclusion
- Lessons learned from failure
- The honorable decision to leave the school
Key Quotes
“His English was not only unintelligible but laughable.” — Brother Andrew
“Often he would crumple from excruciating pain and just lie wherever he fell until someone found him.” — Brother Andrew
“Andy loved the school and its mission. There was only one honorable thing to do.” — Brother Andrew
Application Points
- We should be willing to acknowledge our limitations and trust in God's plan, even when faced with uncertainty and failure.
- Honesty and humility are essential in our relationships with others and with God.
- Obedience to God's plan, even when it's difficult, is a key aspect of our faith walk.