Sent With Purpose: A 14-Day Devotional to Prepare for Short-Term Mission Sample

As you prepare to embark on your mission trip, take a look at this powerful passage from 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 (NIV):

"Though I am free and belong to no one, I have made myself a slave to everyone, to win as many as possible. To the Jews, I became like a Jew, to win the Jews. To those under the law, I became like one under the law (though I myself am not under the law), so as to win those under the law. To those not having the law, I became like one not having the law (though I am not free from God's law but am under Christ's law), so as to win those not having the law. To the weak, I became weak, to win the weak. I have become all things to all people so that by all possible means I might save some. I do all this for the sake of the gospel, that I may share in its blessings."

Becoming All Things to All People

If ever something commanded in Scripture sounded impossible, this is one—”Become all things to all people.”

But the apostle Paul's words in this passage reveal a profound principle of mission work: the willingness to adapt, relate, and connect with people from diverse backgrounds and cultures for the sake of the gospel. Paul's mission was not to impose his own cultural or personal preferences but to meet people where they were in order to share the love of Christ.

Imagine, for a moment, that someone has walked into your home. What would you want them not to do? You probably wouldn’t want them saying all the paint colors were ugly, that the meal you’ve prepared was unappetizing, or that you were wearing something they didn’t like. If they did all of that and then tried to share that Jesus loved you… you might just not listen.

The same is true when you step into a new culture. You will encounter individuals with unique stories, beliefs, and needs. Just as Paul adapted his approach to reach various groups, you are called to embrace cultural sensitivity, empathy, and a genuine desire to understand and relate to those you serve.

That may mean eating new foods and expressing appreciation for their hospitality even if you didn’t like the meal. That may mean changing your wardrobe to respect their culture even if it isn’t your personal style. That may mean participating in a church service that looks and feels different even though you like your church at home.

Be willing to take a step back or take a step out of your comfort zone, and come with a posture of willingness to learn and respect.

Winning Souls for Christ

Paul's primary goal was clear: "To win as many as possible" for Christ. His adaptability and willingness to become like those he served were not for personal gain but for the advancement of the gospel. His love for others compelled him to bridge cultural gaps and build relationships, creating opportunities for the message of salvation to be received.

As you interact with people from different cultures and backgrounds, remember that your mission is to introduce them to the transforming love of Jesus Christ. Your adaptability and willingness to connect with them on their terms can be a powerful conduit for the gospel.

For the Sake of the Gospel

Paul's ultimate motivation was "for the sake of the gospel." He was willing to go to great lengths, adapt his behavior, and embrace discomfort for the greater purpose of sharing the good news. In the same way, your mission is motivated by a love for the gospel and a desire to see lives transformed by Christ's redeeming power.

When you encounter challenges, language barriers, or cultural differences, remember that your sacrifices and efforts are ultimately for the sake of the gospel. Your willingness to become all things to all people opens doors for the light of Christ to shine into the darkest corners of hearts and communities.

Sharing in Its Blessings

Paul understood that as he labored for the gospel, he would share in its blessings. Likewise, your commitment to the mission brings not only blessings to those you serve but also a deep sense of fulfillment and joy in knowing that you are partnering with God in His redemptive work.

As you prepare to embark on your mission, let 1 Corinthians 9:19-23 inspire you to become all things to all people, just as Paul did. Embrace the diversity of those you encounter, adapt your approach, and remember that your ultimate goal is to share the transforming power of the gospel. May you experience the rich blessings that come from serving others for the sake of Christ. Begin to pray for that now.