One of the monthly features on the Eurasia Community Blog is about our Financial Partnership Development program, led by Jenn Fortner. In FPD, missionary associates receive small group training and coaching as they invite individuals and churches to partner with them financially in the work God has called them to in Eurasia.
As believers, I think we fall into the trap of believing that God’s work in our lives is all about the destination.
Once we get to a certain point in our lives, or a certain place, then God will work in and through us.
But following Christ is often much more about the journey of faith along the way, and the ways in which God will use any circumstance to shape our character to be more like his, and in turn, use us to proclaim his name in any situation where we’re willing to submit to His leading.
In the work we do in Eurasia, it’s so easy to think about all of the ministry taking place over there, but God can use those of us who are still in the Western Hemisphere, as we pray and give. Likewise, God can use those of us who are called to go even before their “going” actually takes place.
At least that what’s Darrin and Amelia Waters* are finding as they are in the process of raising funds to come to Southern Asia.
God is working all the time, often in ways and places we would never expect.
Recently, as the Waters were attempting to gain financial partners for their work in Eurasia, they were scheduled to speak at a small church in Washington state. They had been told that only 20 people attended the church on an average week (including the pastor), and though they were willing to go and share about their work, they assumed they’d probably gain only prayer partners, not anyone who would partner with them financially to help them get to Eurasia.
But, God had appointed the time they spent at this church, and they walked away from that service with their largest group of financial supporters yet!
As they continue their journey, they are trusting in God’s faithfulness, and God’s timing, even when it doesn’t fit their expectations. After all, God longs for us to be able to reach the nations for Him much more than we want it ourselves. He is in control, and He will provide!
*names changed