Before You Goنموونە

Taking Others With You

You can take others on your mission trip besides your team members. In fact, some people will go on a group mission trip and still “go alone.” Don’t do it.

I’m speaking of raising support, and it’s more than a financial issue.

Regardless of your financial situation, there are reasons to involve others in supporting you. One benefits them, and the other is critical for you.

1. Do it for them. My wife and I were not missionary-minded until we were asked to host a missionary in our home. God touched us, and we began praying for our missionary regularly and then started giving. We would never have gone ourselves if we hadn’t first been asked to pray or give. By asking others to pray or consider giving to your mission, you are opening doors for God to touch their lives and give them fruit in the nations—perhaps they will even go one day.
2. Do it for yourself and your team. You might sweat it out to raise funds or pay easily because you have the money, but it’s possible to have the money and not be supported. You will feel the difference if you have praying believers standing with you before, during, and after this mission. Your ministry can impact more people here and there if you will give people the opportunity to support you in prayer.

After you decide to go on a short-term mission, contact trusted Christians to whom you can say: “This is what God has put in my heart. Would you consider regularly praying for this team and me, beginning now and until after our return?”

You and the team will be strengthened, the mission will be more fruitful, and God will touch your partners as they talk to Him about your work. Many people on the mission field today first got on their knees on behalf of another. Don’t be afraid to ask and give them a chance.

Go Further: What attitudes block you from asking for prayer or financial support? Make a list! Who can you tell about what God has put in your heart to do? Ask if they will consider praying for you and the team.

Prayer: Father, cleanse me of any desire to be independent. Show me those friends, neighbors, or relatives whom You would have me involved in this mission through their prayer and financial support. Use this support-raising time to strengthen our mission team and to impact others whose hearts You are stirring for the nations.