S-I-M-P-L-E
[adj. (`sim-p l) or (sim-puh l)] = 1. Not hard to understand or do; 2. Not complex or fancy; 3. Not complicated or elaborate; 4. Having few parts.
Examples of simple in a sentence: 1. The solution to the problem is really quite simple. 2. There are three simple steps to follow. 3. Don’t go into too much detail. Just keep it simple and to the point. 4. Establishing a scholarship through the MBF is S-I-M-P-L-E.
Have you ever heard of the KISS method for making decisions or for proceeding toward the accomplishment of a goal? While I recognize that as an acronym, the KISS method can be outlined in various ways, I would like to submit “Keep It Simple and Sweet” or “Keep it Short and Simple.”
Since the inception of the Foundation’s scholarship ministry, thousands of Mississippi Baptist students have received both financial blessings and encouragement through scholarship grants. Estimates suggest that The Mississippi Baptist Foundation has touched upward of 10,000 students with over $7.5 million during the past generation (since 1990). This privilege to award scholarships has been afforded the Foundation by individuals and churches across Mississippi who have demonstrated both the foresight and generosity to “plant a tree so that future generations can enjoy the shade.”
Please receive this edition of Foundation News as a simple announcement of our scholarship ministry combined with a simple attachment outlining our award recipients for 2016-17. In addition, please hear our simple appeal for you to consider a simple approach for blessing future generations of students.
“As of last January, I have taken the role as youth intern at the church where I am under the supervision of the youth pastor ... as I am preparing to become a youth pastor myself. ... My calling that God has given me to pursue is to become a math teacher and a youth pastor. My favorite Bible verses are Philippians 3:12-14 which encourage me to strive for the goals that are in Christ Jesus. Thank you again for this scholarship which encourages me both spiritually and academically.”
– William Carey University student pursuing Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
“This timely gift came right after my husband and I discovered we were expecting our first child! We were wondering just how we were going to juggle tuition payments in with the expenses of pregnancy and a newborn. This gift arrived and reminded us, once again, that God is our sovereign provider. There was much praising and delighting in Him when we received that scholarship letter!! ... My husband ... is also finishing up a degree here. ... We are thrilled to be at NOBTS another year and even more thrilled to be here and beginning this new journey of parenthood.”
– New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary student pursuing degree in Psychology and Counseling
“I praise God for Mississippi Baptists who see the value in supporting young ministers. ... If it were not for you all, there is no telling where I would be. I grew up in the Baptist Children’s Village in I Independence, MS. That is where I first heard the message of Jesus Christ. ... I want you to know that I am who I am today because of the investment Mississippi Baptists have made in my life. I am both blessed and encouraged by you. ... My wife and I are grateful for this investment and we promise to be diligent and intentional as [we] study and do ministry in San Francisco.”
– Gateway Seminary student pursuing Master of Divinity degree
“I am a mother of four children and the wife of a pastor in North Mississippi. I sensed the Lord directing me to complete my Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education last year. We have prayed that God would provide the funds for me to attend a Christian college, like Blue Mountain College, where I can prepare for my degree and grow spiritually as well. I consider it a great privilege to be a recipient of a scholarship that will be an answer to that prayer. Thank you.”
– Blue Mountain College student pursuing Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education
“My plan after I obtain my B.S. degree in Political Science/ Pre-Law is to move on to Mississippi College Law School. ... Also, one of my major goals after college is to run for political office. Now more than ever, I think it is our duty as Christians to get involved in our political system and try to make a difference in our communities, state, and nation. Again, thank you Dr. Hall and to the generous individuals who established this scholarship fund. I greatly appreciate it.”
– Mississippi College student pursuing Bachelor of Science in Political Science/Pre-Law
While the Foundation’s scholarship ministry has expanded over the years, the amount of funds available for distribution continues to lag behind the increasing costs of higher education. The solution to this challenge is really quite simple, with only three simple steps to follow. First, pray that the Lord would guide your heart as you seek first His kingdom with respect to your financial stewardship. Second, contact The Mississippi Baptist Foundation for assistance in leaving a lasting legacy through the establishment of a scholarship. Third, experience the joy of knowing untold numbers of students will have the opportunity to experience Kingdom-sized blessings as a result of your foresight and generosity. Remember that establishing a scholarship through The Mississippi Baptist Foundation is S-I-M-P-L-E. Or, in other words, a Scholarship is an Investment in Ministry and People as a Legacy of Encouragement.
– Daniel C. Hall