Episode Summary

In this episode of Hilltop Conversations, President Rodney Loper sits down with Sonia Vernon to discuss discerning God’s direction, trusting His timing, and how God uses both expected and unexpected experiences to shape our lives.

Dr. Rodney Loper

• President of God’s Bible School & College
• PhD in Organizational Leadership from Columbia International University
• MA in Leadership and Preaching from Trinity Theological Seminary

Sonja Vernon

• Vice President for Student Affairs at God's Bible School & College
• MA in Ministry from God’s Bible School & College
• Bachelor of Science in Nursing from Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Topics Covered

• Discerning and following God’s direction over time
• A relational approach to leadership in student ministry
• How experience serves as preparation for future responsibility

Takeaways

• For leaders: Stay connected to the people you serve, remember that leadership is about people rather than tasks, and remain grounded in your purpose.
• For parents: Trust the Holy Spirit’s work in your child’s life and allow God the space to guide and shape them.
• For students: Walk with Jesus daily and focus on faithfully doing what God has placed before you, rather than pursuing positions or titles.

Video Chapters

00:00 Intro

01:45 From Nursing to God's Call

06:30 Discerning God's Will

10:04 Lessons Throughout Sonja's Life

21:25 Final Thoughts and Advice