Janie and I are asked what we think is the main thing that allows us to endure over 40 years in missions. Thinking about that question I find myself in Philippians 2:8 where we see Jesus began His mission by first humbling himself which produces obedience. Obedience will move us but I think Hebrews 12:2 is the secret to finishing the work set before us. “Looking to Jesus, the founder and perfector of our faith who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross.”
It is the joy of the work God has placed before the church that brings endurance to us that go. What is the secret of many years of ministry? Serving the Lord with joy and what a pleasure it has been. Nehemiah 8:10 says, “The joy of the Lord is our strength.” Our mission seems to be seeing a decline in men and women that stay for the long haul could it be we have lost the joy of serving the One that served us so well. Maybe we need to go back to the time of King David and follow his example in asking God to restore that joy. Remember humility brings obedience but joy brings endurance to stay the long haul as we finish the work set before us. JCH