Nor Cal / Nev College Ministries

Living in the Residence Halls

An Opportunity for Kingdom Living

by Glen Davis

When I was an upperclassman, I decided to move into off-campus housing. After all, I could afford it and it was nicer: it was really kind of a no-brainer decision. I picked a roommate I really clicked with, and prepared for a year of incredible outreach for Christ. Unfortunately, my dreams of ministry died a slow death. Because I lived off-campus, I didn't meet many new students. Most of my classes were filled with upperclassmen I already knew, and most of the people who lived in my apartment complex weren't students. In addition, I found it very difficult to penetrate the circle of new Chi Alpha freshmen. It seemed like they lived in a world all their own, and that world was orbiting a different star than mine. I came to realize that by moving off-campus I had shot myself in the foot.

Wow--you're going to lead a college ministry at the same time that you go to college. That's awesome!

Here are some pointers for you:

1. Begin with prayer. This sounds like a no-brainer, but it really makes a huge difference. Dream God's dream rather than telling Him to dream your dream.
   • Assemble a team of at least two other students who will commit to praying with you for God to move on your campus.

   • Pray specifically that God would open doors for your ministry to go forward.
   • Pray also that God would give you boldness and wisdom to be able to take advantage of the open doors He gives you!