Facing the Future in Ministry

God wants all believers to know His will in their daily lives. Pray especially for young people who are seeking God's plan for their lives. May they be "strong in the Lord and in the power of His might" (Ephesians 6:10). As they seek to serve the Lord in different vocations, pray that they will "put on the whole armor of God" and that they "may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil" (Ephesians 6:11).

Every Christian understands that life must be lived by faith. At times, God works beyond our comprehension and absolute trust in His faithfulness is necessary. When former SMS missionary and Christian leader in Western Ukraine, Ivan Romaniuk, unexpectedly went to be with the Lord last July 2017, the Christian community was saddened immensely. His place with God was prepared and God’s plan is always the best plan.

Although no one knows when God will call one of His servants home to heaven, one must always be prepared. And, hopefully, the effectual ministries of that servant will continue according to God’s plan and providence. Ivan served in many different capacities in the Christian world. His leadership skills were clearly evident and effective. With the heart of a pastor, Ivan was shepherding many young men to lead in the future according to God’s grace. Already members of his own family were serving in the seminaries in Borislav, Lvov and Irpin, Ukraine.

A few years ago, Ivan asked the interim director of Slavic Missionary Service to assist two young men in the Lvov region if possible. (The director taught these two men at different times in the seminary.) One young man (Slavic) was serving in the youth ministry in Borislav, and the other young man (Vova) was serving in the youth ministry in a nearby village. Both men understood their calling in God’s service and were willing to go wherever the Lord would lead, as well as do whatever He desired. Resources were found for these two young men through SMS to assist them in their service for God.

Now, these two men have been called to serve as assistant pastors in the First Baptist Church in Borislav. Slavic is assisting the head pastor in shepherding the congregation in all services and ministries, as well as leading the youth work in the Lvov region. Vova is assisting with the youth and children’s ministry, as well as leading the team in the prison ministry. Praise God that Ivan saw the potential in these two men to become leaders in God’s work, and praise God that SMS was able to provide some support so that these two men could grow in their leadership skills.

If anyone would desire to assist the ministry of Slavic Stashchak or Vova Kutni financially, please write to SMS at PO Box 469, Annandale, NJ 08801 for more information or email the interim director of SMS. These two men are committed to Christ and are eager to serve the Lord to their fullest abilities. SMS desires to partner with such men who have determination and dedication to see God work through them in great and mighty ways.

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers.

Galatians 6:10

Pray that the Gospel will reach the millions in the Slavic countries that have not yet heard what Christ has done for them. Many small cities and towns still do not have an official place of worship. Ask God to help the Slavic churches be effective witnesses in their neighborhoods. Pray that souls will continue to be saved, baptized and discipled through the ministries of the church. Pray that the Holy Spirit powerfully and persistently will convict men of sin and lead many to believe that Jesus Christ is the Savior of the world.