Three months might seem like a short time but they were enough for a firm foundation to be laid in Nigel Evan Rode’s life. Joining the OM Short Term Exposure Programme (STEP) on board Doulos in 2001/02, Nigel finds three key areas he was impacted in by his time on board - growing deeper, loving people and being prepared.
How does a moment last forever? For Nigel Evan Rode, his three months on board Doulos in the OM Short Term Exposure Programme (STEP) lasts till today through the impact the experience made in his life. His time on the ship in 2001/02 was a ‘moment’ that continues today in three ways.
Firstly, being on board allowed Nigel, who is from Klang, to know God in a more personal manner, as well as grow deeper in his relationship with Him. This foundation helped him through difficult times in ministry as well as personal life after his involvement with Doulos.
“My time on board also allowed me to see how God was at work in the lives of the many people as well places I visited. I saw God from a ‘bigger picture’ perspective. It is always important to learn how to see God at work around you.
Secondly, Nigel, who is now a deputy principal, found that his love for people and the desire to the lost and the least grew.
“The passion to reach out, build people and touch lives was something which was instilled in me and this has given me a greater sense of purpose and meaning as I serve God, especially now as an educator in my career and as an Elder in my ministry.
“It has also made me realize that everyone matters to God, and that no one should be left behind. Much of who I am and what I do in terms of my ministry, is because of the love I have for people.
“My time on board also allowed me to pick up skills which helped me in my ministry - from learning how to get along with people around me, to planning and leading Bible studies, and even conflict management. These and many more skills certainly equipped me to serve God.
The third area of impact was to be prepared in season and out of season when serving God in any capacity.
“Flexible, adaptable, teachable – these three words are among my most valued life lessons from time on board. They are a constant reminder to always fully depend on God to guide me as I serve Him.”