Chaplain Ronnie Melancon
It was around 1981-1982 that I decided to quit my job and pursue the full-time ministry of an Evangelist. I had been taught by my Pastor that you never make major changes without prayer and fasting. I had a wife and two children at this time (my youngest was not yet born), and making this decision was serious because it would affect their lives greatly. I had to know it was God directing me.
I took a few days off from my job and went on a prayer and fast retreat to the Bogalusa Bible Conference. Back in those days they would let young ministers sleep in the basement to save from a Hotel bill. My mind was pretty made up, but I needed to be sure.
During a break, an elder Minister that barely knew me called me over to him. He told me, “Bro.Ronnie, a mushroom comes up over-night and is practically full grown, but it’s a mushroom. In no time it will be gone. But an oak tree takes years to grow. You go back to Thibodaux and be an oak tree.”
I knew immediately the Lord was answering my question. It was not His will for me to travel around this nation Evangelizing at this time. I listened, but I must admit somewhat reluctantly.
I have Pastored now for many years here in my hometown. I am a blessed man and all my children and their families are in church serving the Lord with my wife and I. I am convinced that my pursuit for His perfect will has blessed our lives.
I encourage you to seek God in your decisions of life. Don’t be hasty and wind up a mushroom. Pursue God’s will for you, accept it, and be an Oak.
Lord Bless,
Chaplain Ronnie Melancon