I have a book that I am currently reading which deals with global missions.  It contains reports and stories about the history of missions and ongoing efforts in various countries throughout the world. One thing that has impressed me as I have read this book is the enormity of the task and that I can definitely pray more regularly for those who do not know Christ – across the world and even across the street.  While our church prays every Wednesday night and Sunday morning for missionaries and I pray for them as I look at my prayer list during the week, there are definitely some specific needs I can be lifting up.  I have been impressed that I need to pray specifically for others to have the courage to speak to their family and pastors about answering God’s call to go to the field.  I know that I should also pray for very specific needs for those who have already been sent.

Somewhere today a missionary is struggling to come up with the right words to say to the class he or she is about to teach.  Somewhere a missionary is wrestling with helping a person share with their family why they are moving away from the traditional gods their family and culture have always served.  Somewhere a missionary is concerned that they have not seen signs of any spiritual growth in a long time and they are worried that they are not making a difference.  I would ask that you let the Lord lead you as to what specific needs you might pray for.  I know that God will use our prayers to strengthen those missionaries and encourage them in the call they have answered.  In 2 Thessalonians 3:1 Paul said:

Finally, brethren, pray for us that the word of the Lord will spread rapidly and be glorified.  2 Thess. 3:1 

I am thankful for the books that I have been able to read lately regarding missions.  I pray that God will help me to learn more about evangelism and missions and that He will help me to better support the work that He is doing through those who have answered the call to go to the mission field.

Until next time, may God bless you and your loved ones, and His work in the missions field.