Wednesday, February 09, 2005 - Today, we all entered the chapel and sit down with smiles and laughs as we entered another time of worship. We sang to our Lord and enjoyed the presence of the Lord. As normal, we sit down after the worship service was over. President Benson got up and dedicated a baby of a student here at school; it was beautiful. Then, President Benson began talking about change. I figured that he was getting ready to announce the proposal about CBC (Central Bible College), Global, Evangel and AGTS into one, Central University, but that was not the news.

Today, President Benson announced that he and his wife, Kathy, had decided to not renew their contract with CBC. Although he and Kathy love CBC with all of their hearts, he felt it a check in his spirit upon looking at his renewal contract. So, after many months of prayer, he knew it was God's prodding for him to move in another direction. President Benson shared with us several things.

1. Timing of the Announcement:

Board: It was told in time so that they could begin finding another person to take on the President's position.
Campus Family: The decision was left up to the board. He even offered to not announce his decision, but rather let his term end and he simply leave. They decided to do it now because they didn't want gossip to get out.

2. God's Direction:

President Benson did not resign and he was not fired. He is simply finishing his term and now following God's will for his life now. While it is true that he would prefer to retire from CBC, God has other plans. In addition to this, he explained that there is no other job lined up ("not leaving for another lover"). There is no higher position or position of more fame. He is believing that God will provide for him and lead him where God would have him to be (Hebrews 11:8).

3. Promises:

He will continue to give 100%+ until his term is completed.
He will stand behind the new president.
He will offer time to train/mentor the new president upon the terms and desires that the new president so chooses.

Whatever happens during the next few months, we can all be assured of something: God is still in control and He knows what He is doing. What do I have to say? I say, way to go, Prez! It's good to see someone stand up to what they have taught us for the past four years. Sometimes, God's will means sacrifice. I love you! Oh, and I'm glad I got all four years with President M. Wayne Benson!

posted by Mr. Chaas # 11:48 AM http://mr-chaas.blogspot.com/archives/2005_02_01_mr-chaas_archive.html