From the heart of Khubvi Corps in the Limpopo Division comes the story of Cadet Imisani Mbevhana—a journey filled with faith, questions, and God’s undeniable call. Growing up in a home where church was a part of life’s rhythm, he felt the stirrings of ministry from a young age. But like so many of us, the road wasn’t always smooth. There were seasons of doubt, moments of wandering, and days when his heart wrestled with God’s plan. Yet through it all, God’s grace gently pulled him back, reminding him of the purpose planted deep in his soul. Now, as he shares his testimony, Cadet Mbevhana invites us to see how God works in the waiting and the wondering, shaping a life for His glory.
I grew up in a Christian home where attending church was not optional but mandatory. Going to church became a routine; every Sunday, and on all other scheduled church days, I was expected to be present. This included youth activities and other church programmes. Over time, my consistent attendance nurtured a deep love for ministry and a heart for serving God. By the age of twelve, I had a strong conviction that God was calling me to full-time ministry.
When I shared my calling with my family, they found it difficult to understand, given my young age. They struggled to believe me, but I was so sure that God had called me and I knew what I felt within my heart. One Scripture that gave me courage, strength and inspiration was 1 Timothy 4:12-13, which says: “Don’t let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, and in purity. Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching.” This passage became my source of confidence to focus on what God wanted for my life.
God’s grace never left me.
However, as a young person living in a community surrounded by social ills, I lost my way and became involved in worldly and ungodly pursuits. These actions left a void in me, a constant reminder that I was living outside of God’s will. Yet, even in my disobedience, God’s grace never left me. There were moments when people would jokingly call me “Pastor,” and though I resisted the title, deep down, I knew I didn’t belong in the places I was frequenting. What used to amaze me was the feeling I would always have when I went to church – there was always an unexplainable joy!
At sixteen, I had a turning point and accepted Christ Jesus as my Lord and Saviour. On that day, I prayed earnestly, asking God to allow me to participate in His mission despite my youth. God heard my prayer and began shaping my life. Soon after, I joined the Mission Team, which solidified my calling and led me to enter training at the College for Officer Training.
I questioned my decision …
Coming to College, I had high expectations, thinking the journey would be smooth. Little did I know that God had greater plans to mould and transform me through life’s challenges. Just a week after my arrival, a family member was promoted to glory, and I became overwhelmed with worry about how my family would cope without me. At times, I questioned my decision to come to College, wondering if I had made the right choice. During these moments of doubt, my Training Principal’s classes became a source of encouragement. These teachings would encourage me and created steadfast hope in my life. I thank God for using him to deal with certain issues that were disturbing the peace in my heart.
I was reminded that I need God more than anything
There were times I felt angry, questioning why God had not blessed me with the resources to help my family. This led to despair, days without prayer, and feelings of isolation. But one day, as I sat alone, God reminded me of Matthew 6:33, which says: “Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” This Scripture convicted me, and I asked God for forgiveness, surrendering my life and my family’s situation back to Him. I was reminded that I need God more than anything and the rest He will take care of. I realized that doubting God only pleased the enemy and robbed me of my peace. The devil is indeed the father of lies. In this life, we will forever experience tribulations, but our God is faithful and will never leave nor forsake us. Challenges never fade away; all we need to know is that our Redeemer, our Helper, lives.
Today, my spiritual life continues to grow, even amidst challenges. I still battle moments of self-doubt, but I thank God for the support and encouragement of my College family. They journey with me, reminding me of God’s faithfulness. I am learning to trust and obey Him, holding firmly to the belief that He is working through every situation.
My young age will not limit God’s ability to use me.
Being a cadet has been a great journey. I trust that by the time I complete my cadetship, the Lord will have shaped me into a Spirit-filled Officer of The Salvation Army. 1 Timothy 4:12-13 remains my favourite Scripture verse, encouraging me to persevere and reminding me that my young age will not limit God’s ability to use me. I am committed to bringing many souls to the saving knowledge of Christ Jesus.
To God be the glory!