As I reflect on my journey at Grace Christian University, I am overwhelmed with gratitude for how far God has brought me. Earning this degree represents much more than completing classes. It represents perseverance, faith, and God’s sustaining grace through some very difficult seasons. When I first began my studies, I was excited and eager to learn. Along the way, I experienced many highlights. I grew in my understanding of leadership, ministry, and how to apply biblical principles to real-life situations. Through the journey, I appreciated the interaction with classmates from different backgrounds and ministries. Even though we met online, their insights and encouragement helped me grow and reminded me that I was not walking this journey alone.
Facing the Hardest Season
One of the most difficult moments came during my sophomore year when I became seriously ill. The illness forced me to withdraw from school, and when I returned, I had fallen so far behind that I had to repeat classes. It was heartbreaking. I remember crying and wondering if I would ever be the same again. Before getting sick, I could remember and recall information much more easily, but afterward, learning became more challenging. Assignments that once came naturally required much more effort. There were moments when I questioned whether I would ever finish what I had started.
Yet, through God’s grace, I refused to quit. I learned that perseverance is not about never struggling; it is about trusting God when the struggle seems greater than your strength. What I once viewed as a setback became a testimony of God’s faithfulness. I discovered that even when my mind felt slower and my confidence was shaken, God’s grace was still sufficient. He taught me patience, humility, and dependence on Him.
Growth Through Community and Faith
Another highlight of my experience at Grace has been the impact of my professors and advisors. Their encouragement, flexibility, and commitment to student success made a difference in my journey. They challenged me academically while also demonstrating genuine care. My classmates also made an impact through their discussion posts and shared experiences. Their perspectives broadened my understanding and helped me become a better leader and servant.
Compared to when I started, I am now better prepared spiritually, academically, and personally. I have grown in leadership, counseling, strategic planning, communication, and cultural awareness. More importantly, I have grown in my faith and in my understanding that God’s purpose is often fulfilled through perseverance. I have learned that success is not always measured by how quickly we finish but by our willingness to keep going.
Many people made an impact on me during this journey. My professors and advisors encouraged me, my classmates inspired me, and my wife Jennifer stood beside me with love and support. Above all, God carried me through moments when I wanted to give up and reminded me that His strength is made perfect in weakness.
If I were limited to one sentence, I would describe my experience at Grace this way: My experience at Grace Christian University taught me that God’s grace is greater than setbacks, and perseverance through adversity can turn pain into purpose.
Author – Rev. Desmond Scott Rawls
