Sometimes, when we look back over our lives, we can see God’s hand was at work long before we recognised it ourselves. In this testimony, second-year cadet Thapelo Gumede from South Rand Corps, currently serving in his Out-Training appointment at Tshoxa Corps in the Eastern Cape Division, reflects on God’s faithfulness, his journey of surrender, and the call that led him into Officership.
“God will never call you into something without first preparing you for it.” These are words that always come to mind whenever I reflect on my journey.
I grew up in a Christian home where the love of God was always present. From a young age, I had a passion for serving others and being involved in God’s work. Ministry became a part of my life very early, and I genuinely enjoyed being in the house of the Lord. Although I was active in ministry, I had never truly experienced a personal encounter with Jesus Christ in which I fully surrendered my life to Him as my Lord and Saviour.
That moment came during my varsity years. Life became heavy and overwhelming. I reached a point where I realised that I could no longer carry the burdens of life on my own. In that difficult season, I made the decision to fully give my life to Jesus Christ and trust Him completely.
My call to Officership was also a journey of surrender. The truth is that I had my own dreams, ambitions, and plans. Yet, despite pursuing those things, I never truly felt content because the calling of God upon my life was always louder than my own desires. One verse that spoke to me during that season was Matthew 6:33: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you.” Eventually, I decided to take a step of faith and answer God’s call. For the first time, I felt a deep sense of purpose and direction, as though God had been waiting for me to fully trust Him.
My time at the College for Officer Training (CFOT) has had its ups and downs, but through it all, God has remained faithful. I have seen His hand of provision in every season, and I appreciate the way He is shaping me into the leader He wants me to become. During my time at the CFOT, I have learned to let go of many doubts and fears and to rely fully on the Lord.
As I undertake my Out-Training appointment at Tshoxa Corps, I am grateful to God for the opportunity to minister in a different environment. The experience has been both wonderful and eye-opening. I have learned that when you serve people sincerely and wholeheartedly, they feel valued and appreciated. I have also experienced God opening doors for ministry opportunities in different parts of the community, reminding me that His work extends far beyond the walls of the church.
As I continue this journey of faith and Officership, I remain grateful to God for His mercy, guidance, and calling upon my life. I know that the journey ahead will not always be easy, but I take comfort in knowing that the One who called me is faithful.