My Next Steps to Chaplaincy

Proverbs 16:3-9

“Life is a journey of many steps” This is my story of how I will follow God’s direction. First pray and then pray more for God to give me the courage and discernment to be all that He has created me to be. I have learned this by stepping out in faith moving when I didn’t think I could. Who moves from Florida to Massachusetts; says no one ever! When we surrender to God’s will we give God control over our lives, we learn to listen to His needs instead of what “I” need. I came to this place because I had a pull to go out and do for the least. (Matthew 25:27-40) Be like Jesus. Be His hands, His feet, and let His heart shine through me for others to see. Love is a universal language; it’s not Greek, English, or Spanish, it’s not Jewish, Muslim, or Catholic; but it is the same no matter who is giving or receiving it as a person. God’s word tells us to love our neighbors more than we love ourselves and by doing this we take up our cross and deny ourselves. I am here to serve all in the Mighty Name of Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.

Look for ways to be Jesus for others in my daily walk. God has created a path to stay obedient and to grow deeper in my spirituality. Because He knows me, He open this door for me. I am grateful to serve the Lord and strive for the cross. I wear a patch that makes a statement “Jesus Above All” without Him in my life I have nothing! I know that I need to take time to fellowship with Him to keep God’s armor (Ephesians 6:10-18) on as I go out into the places that challenge my character. I see a light in the darkest corners therefore, being an optimist allows me to persevere as I serve. I understand that God works in me just as much as He works through me. He will provide for my needs. His promise tells me He will never forsake me or leave me.

As a chaplain my service would be to provide spiritual guidance in all secular areas. I am in motorcycle ministry, but my service does not stop there because there are so many needs in everyday life my feeling is, I should be ready to do whatever, whenever, and wherever, the need is. Listening is key to God using you right where you are. I know the promptings of the Holy Spirit, that feeling, that voice that says move on this situation. I work hard to be bold enough to step out of my comfort zone.

Emergency Chaplain services caught my attention. Spending 40+ years in Florida I have seen devastation from hurricanes. People without homes for lengthy periods of time cause a disturbance in my heart. I long to be a comforter no matter what the need; a shoulder to cry on, a prayer for provisions, or being there for support for loss of family or friend. Focus needs to be on the problem at hand once the root of what the need is the solution will follow. Remaining calm in all situation helps to show there is control within the chaos. I am going to contact NOVA on basic training for this ministry to further my education.

Whatever service I provide I want it to be God’s testimony not mine I am only the vessel that will enhance His kingdom. I want to be the one standing in the gap as an intercessor. I ask- how can I better serve my church; being accountable to my Pastors, practice confidentiality, understanding of privilege, and privacy, having a good set of moral standards. There are many important aspects to be a chaplain and I will conduct myself accordingly within or out of my church.

May the Holy Spirit go before you

God Bless

Maureen Mignault-Murphy