Sending an Encouraging Word

I opened an email this morning that changed something important in me. It was intended as encouragement, which I received gratefully. There was some unintended truth, though, that's left me convicted and determined to do better. 

It was from one of our missionaries in an undisclosed country. 

"We can't tell you how much it means to us to see that Father has and still is answering prayers. We prayed over two years more than once that He would send someone to send an encouraging word from time to time..."

Imagine their situation for a moment. Two missionaries. Thousands of miles from home. Separated from all those they love by a wall of secrecy intended to protect them from hostile governments. Lonely. Uncertain. Probably afraid. 

Praying that someone would reach out with a word of encouragement. 

The email I sent was little more than one sentence. 

"We spoke with Dad and asked Him to direct every step, provide all that's needed, and fill you with peace and joy."

Those simple words filled a missionary with hope. 

They weren't forgotten. 

Someone cared. 

Someone took the time to send an email...

After we have morning prayer time at Home Office, I take the list of missionaries for whom we've prayed and email them with an encouraging word about our prayers. We have hundreds of missionaries in more than 40 countries, so most missionaries hear from me no more often than once a month. 

Today's email reminded me that 

Global Outreach isn't the only mission-sending organization. There are literally thousands of missionaries serving far from their friends and families, and they're all eager for a word of encouragement. A reminder of love from home.

We can help by becoming a "prayer-sponsor." Why not join the work of Global's prayer ministry by sponsoring a missionary with an ongoing "prayer-donation?" Your gift of time and prayer support would mean so much to them. (comment or message me if you'd like to help)

Missionaries, however, are not the only ones in need of an encouraging word from time to time. People everywhere need to know that someone cares, so let's reach out to those around us. Offer a hug. A smile. A kind word. 

Why not give a bit of encouragement today? It won't cost a thing, but it could mean the world to someone who's lonely or discouraged.

"And the King will say, 'I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to Me!'" Matthew 25:40 nlt

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In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: Sold Out From the Start

*** I'm sharing about my Jordan Journey at a brunch on Saturday. We'll sample Jordanian food and hear stories from my trip. April 1 at 10:30-12 at Global Outreach home office, 74 Kings Highway, Pontotoc MS, and you're all invited. Comment or message me if you'd like to come.***

If God has called you to help with this ministry of digital and in-person outreach (both in the US and around the world), here's the link to give your tax-deductible donations: Global Outreach Acct 4841 or you can mail your check or money order to:

Global Outreach/ PO Box 1, Tupelo MS 38802. Be sure to put Account 4841 in the "for" line.

#Jesus 

The High Maintenance Missionary

I emailed Dianne at the church. "Your high maintenance missionary here with another need," I wrote, and explained why I needed prayer. 

As you might imagine, some of the most incredible needs imaginable come my way. I can't bear all the burdens alone, so I constant turn to the body of Christ, inviting them to help me shoulder the load.

They always do.

Later, I confessed to a friend that I'd begun to feel like a high maintenance missionary, always needing prayer, always with a desperate situation. She laughed. "You're the prayer missionary. You're supposed to need prayer." We talked a few minutes then she said, "You should start another blog. Call it the High Maintenance Missionary" and talk about being a missionary.

I'm not "high maintenance" because I have a lot of needs or demands or even wants, but because I have such a desire for answered prayer. When the need's too great for me, I "need" others to pray because I have such a craving for God to move. I think it's a good kind of "high maintenance". 

The very thought of writing a third blog made me shudder, but I want to tell you about my sweet missionary day yesterday, and the answered prayer I believe we'll receive.

There were the usual emails, phone calls, and writing, but there was also something wonderful.

I spoke at Calvary Baptist Church's Senior Friends group and it was the most fun I've had in a while. I was a part of Calvary for more than 20 years, and I still am, in my heart. We're family. 

Yesterday, we had a big family reunion, but it was more than that. God had gone before me and orchestrated the entire day. The devotional, the music, the facilitator's words, and my presentation all flowed together to present one solid theme. "No matter how old you are, you still have something to give, because prayer is the most important work of all."

As soon as Dick Guyton started speaking, my friends on either side of me turned my way. "Oh, this is so God." We couldn't stop grinning. It was evident God was about to do something beautiful. And He did.

We all left challenged. Empowered to make a difference. Connected to the body of Christ at large. Ready and willing to do something that matters.

Before we left, we did do something that matters. I talked about my upcoming Jordan trip and igniting the embers of faith again. 

"Who would like to see the fires of faith spread in a worldwide revival?" People raised their hands all around the room.

"No. I'm serious. Raise them high if you truly want worldwide revival." Too many hands to count went high in the air.

"Is that something God wants?" Heads began to nod. People called out their agreement. 

Of course that's something God wants.

"What does Scripture say about two or three people gathered together, praying for something that's God's will?'

One lady in the front called out, "He will do it." 

A holy hush fell over the room for a moment and a wave of hope flooded through me. 

He will do it.

We prayed. God answered.

We asked God to start a flame of revival that spreads around the world, and I believe we can count it done.

Revival is not often birthed into times of great prosperity or ease. I don't believe this coming revival will be birthed in ease, either, but I do believe it's coming, and I know it will be worth it.

This morning, I had an email from a friend who's on mission in Africa right now. "Saw 1030 patients yesterday with ~ 500 people receiving Christ." 

Today, let's join in the work of God by praying He begins His revival in us. "Forgive us. Cleanse us. Make us usable, Lord, then put us to work in the fields that are already white for harvest."

Revival is on its way. Let's live ready.

"You may ask Me for anything in My name and I will do it." John 14:14 niv

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Please like and share. It greatly extends my digital reach.

In case you missed yesterday's post, here's the link: Where I'm Going, What I'm Doing, and How You can Participate

This ministry is so much more than a blog. Speaking. Teaching. Hands-on outreach. Connecting with and encouraging missionaries around the world. It's only possible because of the generosity of your support. 

Together, we're making progress, but help is still needed. (I don't get a salary until this ministry is funded) If God has called you to help, here's the link to give your tax-deductible donations: Global Outreach Acct 4841 or you can mail your  check or money order to:
Global Outreach/ PO Box 1, Tupelo MS 38802. Be sure to put Account 4841 in the "for" line.
#prayer