Have you ever been curious about going to a Discipleship Training School but don't know what to expect? In a recent interview, Christy Ellis gives her perspective on the transformation she witnessed God do during her step-daughter Katelyn's DTS experience.
In what way did you recognize a difference in your child? During the school and after.
"As Katelyn attended her DTS classes I began to see a change in her as she learned more about God and the enormity of His love. I specifically remember her telling us about one particular week of DTS classes called “The Father Heart of God.”
As she told us about some of the things that she was learning in that class her eyes would fill with tears. It was a moment in time that my heart, as a parent, had desired to see and experience with her. To witness her experiencing God in such a profound way was beautiful. It seemed to me that God was clearly giving her revelation of His abundant and loving heart for her and for all of humanity.
Also, during Katelyn’s DTS she experienced a different week called “Plumb Line” in which she received a great deal of inner healing. After she went through this ministry time, I saw such transformation in her heart, mind, will, and emotions. As a parent who recognizes the need and greatly values inner healing, I was thrilled that she was offered this type of ministry.
Honestly, after learning about this ministry my opinion of YWAM went up a few notches. Don’t get me wrong. I did not have a low opinion of YWAM. I just did not realize that this mission organization valued ministering to the “whole man” so to speak, as they obviously do in providing inner healing opportunities such as this. I was very impressed, but more importantly, I was just so grateful!"
Were you ever concerned about your kid’s safety?
"Overall, I was not concerned about Katelyn’s safety during DTS except when she went on outreach to the Amazon region for about 2 months. YIKES! Typically, I pray over her life many times in a week, but while Katelyn was on that trip I prayed multiple times a day over her and the entire team.
Ultimately, I had to release her to the Lord’s protection, or I would not have slept during that time. During this part of her DTS I knew the Lord was stretching ALL of us to trust Him more. Of course, the Lord was faithful to keep and sustain her! From what I understand, every precaution was taken by the leadership of her team, and I am so thankful."
Why would you as a parent recommend a DTS?
"DTS is a really great vehicle to help your older teen/young adult experience God and His love in a profound and practical way. It will help grow them in their relationship with God and with people."
It's sometimes difficult to see the changes God does in your life until others see Christ through your actions. I couldn't be more grateful for Christy sharing this parent's point of view. Parents always want what's best for their child. The value of knowing Christ is priceless!
Are you are hungry for the truth and desire to know God more deeply than you ever thought was possible? Paul said it best, "Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think."
Take a step toward God and discover the good things He has waiting for you when you say "Yes."