Last night we were able to get two couples together, one, Thomas and Laura home from the field for a short furlough and Josh and Bethany heading to the same country in a few months. . It was encouaging to watch them interact and hear the excitment in voice as they shared their hearts. Ace and I were encouraged that we could be a part of it as Member Care Reps. We talked about how hard it was to share our hearts even with Christians at times. One of the couples said, they just don't get it. Another said it's sad when you have been gone for two years and meet up with your old friends again and there is no excitment over what God is doing in their life let alone in other countries.
Being back in the states for a little over a year we have gained some understanding of what these couples were talking about. Your heart wants your family and friends to "get it, the vision you have that would make you leave your comforts and give of yourself to those tucked back in some remote place. If you had been in our living room listening to them you would realize they know they are not special people but the God they serve is able to use ordianary people. It's not our hearts to guilt someone into giving or even going but at least to be excited to hear some of what God is doing. One thing I have learned I can never be excited if I am not growing myself. These clip keep me aware of what is going on beyond my world even though we will not get to serve overseas again due to my husbands heart issues neither one of us want to lose the vision to reach the whole world.
The closer we get to God calling us home the harder the enemy works to discouraged us. When we are focus on ourselves or our trials we will not be a witness. This new year I believe will require more prayer for those willing to reach beyond their world whether it's across the street or in another country. More prayers needs to be lifted up for each other as we all face our daily battles. Abuntant prayers for strength, wisdom and a willing heart, for us to catch God vision for the lost everywhere.
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This hit fairly close to home. We got word this morning from Karen Stark. We help support her, her husband, and kids living in Kurdistan I think it is. Karen sent word to ask for prayer for Joe. He's depressed and ready to throw the towel in. She was asking for one hundred people to pray for Joe. If you wouldn't mind joining us in praying for Joe that would be great. My heart breaks for the ones called to that difficult service.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing your heart for God and all the souls that He created. His love is for all of us.
Happy New Year, Betty. God bless you, Ace, and the the entire family this year and all seasons of life.
Oh Floyd, count me in as one of the hundred people. Joe and Karen are in a difficult country to serve the Lord in. Much opposition. Thank God Karen felt the freedom to tell the reason for asking for prayer. When Ace felt like throwing in the towel he would always say, we are going to go home, buy a semi and truck for a living. Thank God he never put action his words.
ReplyDeleteHappy New Year to you and the family, thanks for all the good post that start my mind to pondering on the things of God. You along with others have been such an encouragment to me this year.
Praying for you now, Betty. I admire your heart and the sacrifices you've already made to reach others with the good news of Jesus. And for the sacrifices you continue to be willing to make for his name.
ReplyDeleteI'd appreciate prayers for more boldness to speak the name of Jesus and show his love to others that don't know him AND to those who do. Thanks.
God bless you Lisa for your prayers. I willingly pray for you to have boldness to give out the hope that live within you.
ReplyDeleteI feel the enemy working very hard to discourage, distract and distort the truth. I join you in praying for the Church to stand up and shine God's light into this dark world.
ReplyDeleteGod bless you and your ministry. Look forward to reading more of your posts.
This really touched me. The goings and comings of missions can be so difficult. One more reason for me to lift up in prayer those serving God in that capacity.
ReplyDeleteWow, this really hit home for me. I see you just read my post, Handouts, so I know you know what I mean.
ReplyDeleteYes, I will pray for you. It's so nice to meet a new sister. I'll be back to see how you are doing:)
Blessings~
Kris
The love of Jesus just reaches out and touches me through your words, Betty! The more we understand His love for us, the more we want to share Christ it seems. I'm praying that God gives you things to do right here in the US, Betty, and for your husband's health. Praying for Floyd's Joe too.
ReplyDeleteThis year we face another custody battle for Susanna, my granddaughter. Father wants to move and take her away this summer. I'm praying for his deliverance. Thanx for prayer!
This breaks my heart and helps me pray for those who are sent out .. .and also pray for those of us who are still here, to not forget why He came and what He told us to do.
ReplyDeleteThank you and God bless you for keeping our hearts yearning for Him and His!