Empowering the Next Generation: The STS Institute
By: Kelly Smitherman
The Bible says in II Timothy 3:16-17, that “All scripture is God-breathed and useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.” People today are struggling with many different issues, some external and others internal. Unfortunately, a lot of those people do not have or do not understand how God and His “God-breathed Scripture” can give them life, purpose, and direction in this crazy world. The task that God has given you can be extremely hard at times, BUT you have faith which means “confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see” (Heb. 11:1).
I had the honor and privilege to work in public education for 25 years as a teacher, coach, and administrator. During my tenure, God blessed me with incredible opportunities to meet and love on people. But over the last few years, my wife and I felt a stirring in our hearts that some sort of change was coming. I was starting to see more and more students and families that did not have any “faith or hope" in their lives. Early in 2023, Scott Dawson approached me about starting a “ministry trade school” for young people who are called by God to reach these students and their families with the love of God. Paul told Timothy “And of this gospel I was appointed a herald and an apostle and a teacher” (2 Tim. 1:11). These students and families need an appointed herald to teach them the Gospel of Christ and to help them find His love, His salvation, and their purpose in this crazy world.
Scott shared the vision with me that is now the Strength to Stand Institute. A school that is designed to train student pastors, worship leaders, production, and, in the future, children’s ministers. These current and future leaders will receive a personal and practical education taught by pastors, student pastors, worship leaders, and other experts in various fields. Our goal is to equip these leaders with the tools needed to go back into our communities and share the message of God’s love, God’s faithfulness, and God’s desire to have a personal relationship with all of us.
No price tag can be put on what you do daily to further the kingdom of God. Paul told Timothy to “Preach the Word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage—with great patience and careful instruction” (2 Tim. 4:2). I just want to let you know that you are in our thoughts and prayers. Love God, stay in His Word, and never forget that you are not alone.