Here’s an interview I did with Emmanuel Express magazine of EPC Church, Montreal. Once a month they conduct a servant spotlight interview. I thought it was good to share it with you, our Guarding the Heart (GTH) readers.
Emmanuel Express Editor’s note: I had the pleasure of interviewing Pst. Shyju in his office. As we sat and chatted, I was reminded once more of his intense love for God. His passion swells within every ounce of his being when discussing his walk with God. We discussed many issues. He gave every question I asked serious thought as I could see his eyes narrow in a pensive manner before giving me an answer. I appreciated his honesty and transparency.
1. What do you like most about your job?
The opportunity to reach and serve my generation is what I enjoy most.
2. What do you like least about your job?
Realizing that results do not happen overnight.
3. What is your favorite food?
Since moving to Canada, I discovered BBQ Ribs. I never ate them before and now they are my favorite.
4. Where is your favorite place to be?
I love to be where people are most hungry for God!
5. What can you say about yourself that would surprise our readers?
I actually struggle with being in a room full of people. Somehow that disappears when I get up to preach. It is His grace.
6. If you could change one thing about yourself what would it be?
I would like to be an early bird, but I am really a night hawk.
7. Who is your best friend?
My wife Tiny ( Tini ) is my best friend. She knows everything about me and I am grateful to God for her.
8. Happiness is:
Making God smile!
9. How do you spend your leisure time?
Instagram! I have a deep appreciation of nature and capturing it on camera.
Editor’s note: Pst Shyju stopped the interview to show recent pictures he had taken up north in the Laurentians. He is quite the photographer. They were beautiful.
10. Favorite bible verse?
Romans 8:28 “And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose.”
It is an incredible and encouraging truth to know that no matter what my disappointments are, they will turn out for my best as long as I love God.
11. Favorite bible passages?
I love reading passages of the lifestyle of Jesus, especially His prayer times. I am fascinated by those passages. He needed to withdraw and pray too. If we can face God first, then we can face the world.
12. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I would want to go visit a place I have never seen. Since my time is now mostly spent with Italians, I would love to visit Italy.
13. Who had the most influence in your life?
Definitely my mother. She instilled God in me before I knew the things of this world. Even before the enemy could sow his weeds, she sowed into my life seeds of faith that were deep rooted. The weeds failed to overcome because she took the time to pray and teach me to pray. It helps me to date to hold on to those truths even when waves of life threaten to drown God’s will for me.
14. I hope that….
I will see revival very soon.
15. How do you want to be remembered?
I want to be remembered as a man who walked with God. That’s all I ever want.
16. Who do you respect the most?
I respect those who are humble. It’s so beautiful.
17. What is one of the kindest acts anyone has shown that really touched you?
I was preaching at a crusade in Indonesia. The power of God was moving over the people. Many were weeping. As I was moving through the crowd, an old lady approached me. She could barely walk. She reached in her pocket and pulled out a handkerchief. It was filled with coins. It was obvious these were her savings. I started to refuse this gift but God spoke to my heart and told me it was not for me. She was giving it to the Lord. I accepted her gift and I never forgot the encounter with her.
18. Any last thoughts for our readers?
Success is not measured by a number, it is not found in your present status, it is not determined by the size of your bank account, nor by how many people like you or how popular you are. Success is being in the center of God’s will. Do not focus on the things of this world, but rather focus your heart on things above. Do not pursue ministry, rather pursue loving Jesus. Ministry is the overflow that comes from loving God.