Growing People: Wise and Godly Counsel

The last few months of teaching at Siloam Bible Institute (SBI), always leave us with a mixture of emotions - exhaustion, relief for reaching the end of the school year, frantic ticking off the checklist of administrative tasks – review lessons, preparing students for tests, administering tests, marking, writing reports, the excitement of graduation and then the bittersweet moments, as we say goodbye to the bonds formed with the students that are graduating.

We have taken many of the young people at SBI under our wings – nurturing, mentoring, discipling, offering unwavering support, giving God focused counsel and a listening ear when needed.

We continue to teach the SBI students to the best of our abilities. This last academic year has further cemented our understanding of the importance of mentoring alongside teaching. We encourage students by nourishing their spiritual journeys, helping them grow in their relationship with Jesus, and developing their leadership responsibilities and God-given talents - enabling them to thrive in the plans God has designed for them.

There are many examples of mentoring in the bible including Jesus Himself who exemplifies the ultimate mentor. Another example is the Apostle Paul, who served as a godly mentor to Timothy referring to him as a “true son in the faith” – 1 Timothy 1:2, and provided him with guidance, encouragement and instruction

As much as we have poured into the students, we have also learnt so much from them – prompting us to remember we are never too old to learn. We are deeply thankful to God and privileged we can invest in the lives of these young people.

On graduation day, the sun blazed down fiercely, the cicadas rhythmic chorus rang out loudly, and the warm air filled the hall. Despite the intense heat in the air - overjoyed parents and teachers celebrated with the SBI graduating class of 2026. Jonah, whom we have mentioned in previous prayer letters and on home assignments, finally graduated. Jonah has always been self-motivated; not long after we began to teach at SBI, Jonah reached out to Paul to receive extra assistance with his studies. Paul provided Jonah with additional help for the last 3 years, helping him to write mini sermons, essays in English, answer many questions, mentored and encouraged him greatly.

Jonah has wasted no time, since graduating, he has already had an interview with BMS workers Wit and Helen for a position as their new Youth Pastor in the upper northern region of Thailand in area called Uttaradit. We are excited to see how God will use Jonah in this next stage of his journey.

Amongst the busyness of teaching, we have also had some amazing moments. Just before the cool season finishes, everyone seems to have a mad scramble to fit in as much outdoor activities as possible, before the hot season arrives.

Our TKBC colleague and dear friend, Pe, recently got married. It has been such a joy to walk alongside her—supporting and encouraging her as she trusted in the Lord to bring the right godly man into her life, in His perfect timing. Pe and Ryan's wedding was a beautiful ceremony, thoughtfully incorporating Karen traditions. Pe looked absolutely stunning in her traditional Karen bridal attire. Taking advantage of the cooler season, the reception was held outdoors, creating a lovely and memorable celebration

“...Wars and rumours of wars, but see to it that you are not alarmed..."– Matthew 24:6–13

We must remember to take time to pray for the many civilians around the world who are affected and displaced by conflict. We once again participated in the annual "Run for Relief" organised by Free Burma Rangers (FBR), joining hundreds of others as we ran in solidarity with the oppressed people of Burma.

For over 30 years, FBR has brought help, hope, and the love of Christ into some of the most desperate and war-torn regions of the world. It is always a blessing to come together with so many people to pray, run, and remember the millions living amid the realities of war. May we continue to pray for God's peace to reign—that barriers of hostility would be broken down, that leaders and nations would be united in harmony, and that humanity would be reconciled to Him through Jesus Christ.

Thank God

- For this year's SBI graduates. Pray as they step into new roles and God's purpose for their lives.

- That the SBI school year ended well. Pray that all students and teachers will rest well and be prepared and refreshed for the new school year in May.

Pray for

- The student teachers Amu and Da. Amu is currently in the Philippines doing cross-cultural training in English. Da is preparing to undertake a Teaching English to Speakers of Other Languages (TESOL) course. Pray as they continue to learn to function and teach in English (their second/third language).

- Us as we prepare to return to the UK on home assignment in May. Pray for the church visits and quality time with family.

Mentoring is a powerful partnership, where we have the privilege of guiding others. As a mentor we can offer guidance, encouragement and accountability, but it is ultimately God's wisdom and transformation that brings lasting spiritual growth and fruitfulness. Let us be thankful for the mentors we have in our lives. May we all continue to be a source of wisdom and support to others.

Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed. – Proverbs 15:22

God Bless

Paul & Sarah