Important principles in missions

When you face the impossible, you’re halfway there.

David Lee reminded me of that important principle when I met him during my visit to Papua New Guinea last fall.

David told me a great story about how he was finding it impossible to progress in his ability to learn and use the language of the Bena Bena people, among whom he was working.

And when David turned the problem over to God, God had the answer. It was impossible, and realizing that got David halfway there – on his knees. Prayer got him the rest of the way.

I had the privilege of sharing that story in an issue of NTM@work magazine.

This week David reminded me of another important principle: Sometimes the only way someone else will step into a ministry God has for them, is for you to step out of it.

David has used his understanding of the Bena Bena culture and language to teach them a series of evangelistic Bible lessons, which have resulted in a number of believers. He’s continued to teach, sharing lessons on eternal security and the function of the church.

But something’s been missing: the function of the church.

The Bena Bena believers “have not been keen to take on the teaching,” David wrote. (He’s Australian – don’t you just love the way Australians say things?) As much as he taught and encouraged them, they preferred to leave the teaching to David.

So he went over two lessons in Acts with some key men and left on a previously scheduled holiday, expecting the believers to teach the lessons.

You want to know what happened? So do I. So does David. But none of us will find out until David returns to the village until next week.

I’ll let you know what happens, because that’s part of my ministry. Sharing stories of what God is doing is a great way to encourage folks to get involved, or get more involved.

Want to help others have opportunities to get involved in the great things God is doing among tribal people? Then find out how you can more involved in our ministry.

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