My name is Sherri Tidwell, and the Christian Leaders Institute is giving me the continued education in ministry I need (Learn more about online Bible courses, Click Here). Originally from Saginaw, Texas, I moved a lot throughout my childhood and adult life. I am presently living in Ruston, Louisiana. Currently, I serve as Children’s Minister at First Baptist in West Monroe, Louisiana, at the Calhoun Louisiana Campus. I have previously served in many ways and several churches with children, youth, and adults.
Rejection and Salvation
I was not raised in a Christian home. Upon completing my high school graduation, I married and had two amazing sons. I entered cosmetology school and now see God used that career to tear down walls and open doors. Soon followed my divorce. I was rejected, and the devastation led me to make some horrible choices. However, I soon met a wonderful man whom God used to water seeds that I did not even realize had been planted in my life. Over time, those seeds grew and changed me. I was 27 years old, having “never been enough,” rejected, and replaced by others. Now, I learned that GOD loved me, accepted me, and forgave me. I accepted God as Lord and Savior of my life, and nothing has been the same since!
However, life did not get easy following salvation. In 2012, after 20 years of marriage to my second husband, he committed adultery. It devasted me because I thought we had a strong family unit. We had been serving God as a family. My husband turned from God, rejected my two boys and me. Once again, I was rejected. This only epitomized it.
My Ministry Journey
During these various seasons, I have sat under some amazing preachers and teachers of the Word of God. They mentored, trained, and led me in my journey of becoming all God created me for. I read many books, took in-depth studies with small groups, attended conferences, and completed online classes. I sought every way to grow in my walk with God and what He has for me. While on this journey, I was strengthened, empowered, encouraged, and even tested enough to learn that GOD alone is enough!
Continued Education in Ministry at CLI
Now, as I continue to learn to fully rely on God, with grown kids and precious grandchildren, I find myself right where He wants me for this season. I am fully and completely committed to what God has called me to do. I have never been at such peace. Although it is “the windy path,” as Professor Henry Reyenga says, it the most amazing journey I have ever been on. Over the last year and a half, while serving as a children’s minister, I began seeking a way to really learn and grow in my ministry and achieve my spiritual dream.
Since graduating high school in 1986, I have taken many courses, classes, and certifications. Each one has helped to prepare me for the path that God has led me to.
Therefore, I am so excited about this new journey in continued education with the Christian Leaders Institute. I now have hope as an older, single female with limited income. I can continue to grow in the ministry God has given me. There is no doubt in my mind that CLI is an answered prayer for my continued educational path. I am very blessed to have this ability to grow in ministry. Thank you, CLI!
