Study the Bible – A Student Testimony

My name is Saris Hovaguimian, M.Ed. J.D., and I am blessed to study the Bible online at the Christian Leaders Institute. Born in 1962 in Aleppo, Syria, I lived in Lebanon until the age of 14 and have been a California resident since 1978.

My Youth

I was brought up in a religious family, attending the Armenia Apostolic Cathedral. During my elementary school years, I attended an all-boys Catholic school. In my 20s, I served in the Armenian Cathedral Choir for 15 years and helped raise funds to build a youth center. My family is very religious, God-fearing, and relying on the tradition in the Church. I can still picture my mother and father reading the Bible together. That is how they start their day.

When I served in the church choir, I attended law school and graduated with my Juris Doctor degree in 1987. During this time, I became distant from our church due to everyday church politics. Whereas being a young man, I walked away. So I moved further and further from my religion.

Challenges

In 2012, when my career was at its top, I fell ill, and I was diagnosed with congestive heart failure. My lungs were retaining fluid, and I could not even walk five feet. It was so bad that I had to resign. I resigned from my position as Assistant Dean of Students at a private four-year college. I could not even leave the house. Thinking back, I believe it was God demanding my attention when nothing worked for ten years. After one year of doctors and testing, I underwent a quadruple bypass. During the one-year home confinement, I started to follow Dr. Charles Stanley and his broadcasts daily. I also started to study the Bible myself. That was something I had never done.

On July 18, 2014, at 5:30 am as they wheeled me into the operating room, I said, “God, Your Will be done in my life. I thank you for your Grace that saved me through faith.” I knew it was God’s plan, asking for my attention for obedience. That was the day my life as a religious person ended, and my relationship with God began.

Renewed in Christ

From that day on, my daily devotion in the mornings includes reading the Bible and a conversation with the Lord. On occasions, on my way to work, the Holy Spirit’s presence was so powerful that the radio broadcasts were directed to me. I have learned to trust God, obey God, and leave all the consequences to HIM.

His Grace and good work on the cross saved me. I intend to live and walk with him, praising him, glorifying him on every turn on the road of salvation.

Called to Study the Bible Online at CLI

I wanted to learn more about the ministry. So I searched online and found the Christian Leaders Institute. With the free ministry training as CLI, I will be equipped to reach others for Christ. It is my sincere belief that I can make a difference in at least one person’s life, where they see a tremendous change. Thank you, CLI!

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