Miroslav Balala serves as an elder and preacher in Slovakia.
When did you trust Christ?
Before following Christ, I thought that my attempts to live a good life according to my moral standards would be enough to ensure me a 'place in heaven'. But in September 2010, I met a group of young Christians, and I was shocked by the love I saw in their community. I started spending more time with them and reading the Bible during youth group meetings. Several youth group members spent many hours discussing God, kindly responding to my questions, and showing me love I had never felt in any other community. I started to understand that my attempts to live a moral life fell short because I was isolated from God. I could only be rescued by trusting Jesus and inviting Him into my life as my Saviour and Lord.
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
One of the most defining moments of my Christian walk was when a youth pastor invited me to join his team and co-lead a small group. In this group, I helped with Bible teaching, led the discussions, and spent time with high school students. The youth pastor guided and mentored me in my Christian walk. Two other important and challenging moments were when I became a husband and later when I became a youth group leader.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
The Lord has used the community at the Forum to reshape my disciple-making thinking. Discussing with the participants was refreshing and inspiring, especially during the Network. It is a wonderful opportunity to share experiences, struggles, and joys with like-minded leaders from Europe and the United States, worshipping our God and encouraging one another to persevere in the mission of which we are part.
What is your ministry?
As an elder in our local church, I have the privilege of teaching and preaching during Sunday services. Additionally, I lead a small community group, nurturing spiritual growth and fellowship. I'm also passionate about leading our worship ministry and am actively involved in our youth ministry, serving university students and young adults. I also lead the financial stewardship of our church.
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
From 2011 to 2016, I was a youth group team member in Žilina and led worship for three years. Then, after getting married and moving to Levice in the summer of 2016, I became a youth pastor. I also led worship in Levice for two years.
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
I want to grow in disciple-making, building relationships that help God's people mature. I also want to focus more on developing new leaders who could disciple other community members, reach people with the Gospel, and help them grow to maturity in Christ.
