To all our loved ones in Christ-
I know this update is long overdue. It has been partially intentional as well as involuntary due to limited internet that we haven't updated you all for a while. Thanks to those who pressed us to send an update!
Before I begin, I want to let everyone know that this will be the last blog update. The reasons are many, but the main one being that both Megan and I were convicted a few weeks ago that we were more motivated by hopes of financial support than we were by desiring prayer and keeping you all updated. So, although this motive was even unknown to us until this past month, we need to come and ask each one of you for your forgiveness for presuming upon all of you and not having our motives be pure and godly. By God's grace he has granted us repentance for this sin and so feel it is appropriate for us to "cut off the arm" for at least a season. Thank you for your love and forgiveness.
Since we left Minnesota on July 24th God has proven his faithfulness to his Word over and over again; revealing our sinfulness in unbelief and covetousness, as well as blessing us beyond anything we could have ever imagined with a joy in Christ and his sufficiency.
As a reminder, we felt that for a season we were to only ask God for anything we needed (following the example of George Muller) to 1.) build our faith in Him; 2.) Show his faithfulness to others. So the following was all given to us without a single mention of any need to anyone, but our Father in heaven:
We felt called to sell all of our possessions in Minnesota and give the money to the poor brothers and sisters in the church as commanded by Jesus in Luke 12. So we came to the east coast with only what fit in our minivan. This left us without beds, sofa, kitchen table, toys, high chair, dishes/plates/cups, and much more. Within 3 weeks of being in South Carolina, God had supplied through people we have never met:
A Queen sized bed
A double bed
A twin Bed
A pack N' play
A high chair
Toys galore
A kitchen table
Kitchen supplies (including plates, bowls, cups)
a dresser
and last but not least an abundance of food.
A quick story that still is amazing to me (not that all this other provision isn't amazing): One morning I looked at Elijah's diapers and noticed there were only about 10 left. I told Megan that I was struggling with faith because I didn't know how we would pay for diapers. Not 3 hours later, someone handed us a full box of size 3 diapers. The next day, someone else sent us another box of size 3 diapers. A few days later, my in-laws gave us a box of diapers. Then, because I'm a fool, I saw that Grace's overnight diapers were running low and I began to get anxious about how we would be able to get more for her. That very day We received a full box of girls overnight pull-up diapers!
He has provided more that we ever expected. My exhortation to you all is" "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding!" Prov. 3:5 He knows what we need before we need it. So "seek first the kingdom and his righteousness and he will give you all these things!" Matthew 6.
Despite his faithfulness, we find ourselves time and time again doubting that he'll provide for us. We ask that you pray for an increase of faith. We are fully aware that the testing of our faith is to develop perseverance and that faith is strengthened through testing. He will never leave us or forsake us!
Some lessons over the past couple of months that we have learned from scripture:
1.) We are to work with our hands so that we can "walk properly before outsiders and have no need of anything" 1 Thess. 4 -- So I am seeking work and praying about starting a business
2.) It is sinful to be isolated. We are called to make disciples, fellowship, and lay down our lives for the brothers. -- We are currently in the middle of no where. We are seeking to move.
3.) God desired that I didn't attend seminary. He was gracious not to provide the money to attend school, so I am not attending. -- We are seeking where he wants us, if it's here or somewhere else.
4.) The local church should function a lot differently that what we see in most churches today. -- this would take too long, but would love to discuss with you if you're interested.
We love you all so much. Please don't hesitate to contact us when you have the change. Either through e-mail, phone, or letter. Our address is:
1560 turkey Creek ridge road
York, SC 29745
We have a few weeks left in this house and then we'll be moving again. Please pray for us, especially during this time of weak faith and little finances.
May the Lord bless you and keep you;
May the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you;
May the Lord lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace...in Jesus Christ. For his glory!
Love,
Bill and Megan
Friday, September 10, 2010
Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Learning to Live Without
Friends,
Since we are in a rather poor and undeveloped part of the countryside, though not third world, we don't have access to internet at home, and our cell phone reception is really poor most of the time. So we are limited to going to the library for internet or driving 20 minutes to McDonalds and sitting in the parking lot to use their wireless (yes, we end up buying at least a drink so we aren't just using them).
Please keep sending e-mails, or even better- snail mail- but we will not be quick to answer most days.
All that being said, this is allowing Bill to have much time with the Lord- in prayer and in the Word. We are both falling more in love with Christ and have been eager to invite our neighbors over. Please pray for boldness as we serve them and tell them about the Good News that is offered them.
Love you all and are praying for you daily-
Bill and Megan
Since we are in a rather poor and undeveloped part of the countryside, though not third world, we don't have access to internet at home, and our cell phone reception is really poor most of the time. So we are limited to going to the library for internet or driving 20 minutes to McDonalds and sitting in the parking lot to use their wireless (yes, we end up buying at least a drink so we aren't just using them).
Please keep sending e-mails, or even better- snail mail- but we will not be quick to answer most days.
All that being said, this is allowing Bill to have much time with the Lord- in prayer and in the Word. We are both falling more in love with Christ and have been eager to invite our neighbors over. Please pray for boldness as we serve them and tell them about the Good News that is offered them.
Love you all and are praying for you daily-
Bill and Megan
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Our New Home!
Well, within 4.5 hours of doubting and faithlessness on our end, God heard our prayers and not only gave us a new house, but we also had our things moved in!
It's a singlewide in York, SC. It is an area with lots of poverty, but the home is nice and owned by a very laid-back, sweet couple who live two houses down. Our back yard butts up against their horse pasture. We'll post photos when possible.
Only the Lord could give us a home when we have no job, so we are grateful for God's provision and excited to see how he works here. It's in an area that we never considered (long story how we got there), but the area is ripe for harvest - pray with us that as we preach and live the gospel here, God will draw people to himself and His name would be magnified there!
Thank you for your faithful prayers.
It's a singlewide in York, SC. It is an area with lots of poverty, but the home is nice and owned by a very laid-back, sweet couple who live two houses down. Our back yard butts up against their horse pasture. We'll post photos when possible.
Only the Lord could give us a home when we have no job, so we are grateful for God's provision and excited to see how he works here. It's in an area that we never considered (long story how we got there), but the area is ripe for harvest - pray with us that as we preach and live the gospel here, God will draw people to himself and His name would be magnified there!
Thank you for your faithful prayers.
Friday, July 30, 2010
Hello from North Carolina!
The Lord has been gracious by getting us here safely. We've been here since Wednesday and have spent most of our time in the car getting familiar with the area(s). We have two days to find a place to call home. We have decided to live closer to Charlotte where school is. We've also decided that we will check out WellSpring Church in Charlotte this Weekend (for those familiar with the Acts 29 church planting network- it's a four year old church plant looking for church planters to disciple and send out!).
We'll update everyone with more information, but just wanted to let ya'll know where we will be concentrating our search and to ask for your prayers that we would trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding; in all our ways acknowledging him, knowing that he will direct our paths. We will be praying the same for all of you.
Love you guys.
We'll update everyone with more information, but just wanted to let ya'll know where we will be concentrating our search and to ask for your prayers that we would trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding; in all our ways acknowledging him, knowing that he will direct our paths. We will be praying the same for all of you.
Love you guys.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Seek God; Make plans; Follow Jesus!
There seems to be a popular unbiblical belief that if you are seeking and trusting God's will and promises, then everything you plan to do, or everything you attempt to do, will "succeed" or will go the way you have planned it. If there is something you feel the Lord is leading you to do, please don't let this wrong belief hinder you. Seek the Lord; Make plans; Go do; then let the Spirit of Jesus lead you.
The apostle Paul continually sought the Lord. He was continually striving to 'test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." (Romans 12:2b) And yet numerous times we see Paul planning something, or attempting something that ends up not being God's will. Yet every time, Paul is faithful to following where the Lord would have him go whether it is in align with Paul's plans or not. What hope can all who call upon the name of Jesus Christ as Lord, Savior, and Treasure find in this!
For example: (Acts 16:6-10 ESV)
"And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them. So, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas.
And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them."
Another example: (2 Corinthians 1:15-24 ESV)
I encourage everyone who thinks that God may be leading them somewhere to first set their hearts on diligently seeking God and then go do something. Don't let the fear of man keep you from trusting in God's sovereignty and guidance.
We can trust God when he promises in Proverbs 3:5-7:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.
Be not wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord, and turn away from evil."
"Many are the plans in the heart of a man; but it's the Lord's purpose that prevails" (Proverbs 19:21)
So seek God, make plans, and then follow Jesus where ever he opens for you to go. If you get somewhere and things happen the way you thought, trust that God has you there to be a witness and to make disciples. If you get somewhere and things don't happen the way you thought, trust that God has you there to be a witness and to make disciples. If you never make it to where you attempt to go, but end up somewhere else, trust that God has you there to be a witness and to make disciples.
The apostle Paul continually sought the Lord. He was continually striving to 'test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will." (Romans 12:2b) And yet numerous times we see Paul planning something, or attempting something that ends up not being God's will. Yet every time, Paul is faithful to following where the Lord would have him go whether it is in align with Paul's plans or not. What hope can all who call upon the name of Jesus Christ as Lord, Savior, and Treasure find in this!
For example: (Acts 16:6-10 ESV)
"And they went through the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been forbidden by the Holy Spirit to speak the word in Asia. And when they had come up to Mysia, they attempted to go into Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus did not allow them. So, passing by Mysia, they went down to Troas.
And a vision appeared to Paul in the night: a man of Macedonia was standing there, urging him and saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” And when Paul had seen the vision, immediately we sought to go on into Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them."
Another example: (2 Corinthians 1:15-24 ESV)
"Because I was sure of this, I wanted to come to you first, so that you might have a second experience of grace. I wanted to visit you on my way to Macedonia, and to come back to you from Macedonia and have you send me on my way to Judea. Was I vacillating when I wanted to do this? Do I make my plans according to the flesh, ready to say “Yes, yes” and “No, no” at the same time? As surely as God is faithful, our word to you has not been Yes and No. For the Son of God, Jesus Christ, whom we proclaimed among you, Silvanus and Timothy and I, was not Yes and No, but in him it is always Yes. For all the promises of God find their Yes in him. That is why it is through him that we utter our Amen to God for his glory. And it is God who establishes us with you in Christ, and has anointed us, and who has also put his seal on us and given us his Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee.
But I call God to witness against me—it was to spare you that I refrained from coming again to Corinth. Not that we lord it over your faith, but we work with you for your joy, for you stand firm in your faith."
I encourage everyone who thinks that God may be leading them somewhere to first set their hearts on diligently seeking God and then go do something. Don't let the fear of man keep you from trusting in God's sovereignty and guidance.
We can trust God when he promises in Proverbs 3:5-7:
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.
Be not wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord, and turn away from evil."
"Many are the plans in the heart of a man; but it's the Lord's purpose that prevails" (Proverbs 19:21)
So seek God, make plans, and then follow Jesus where ever he opens for you to go. If you get somewhere and things happen the way you thought, trust that God has you there to be a witness and to make disciples. If you get somewhere and things don't happen the way you thought, trust that God has you there to be a witness and to make disciples. If you never make it to where you attempt to go, but end up somewhere else, trust that God has you there to be a witness and to make disciples.
Monday, July 19, 2010
We love all of you!
As Megan and I continue to seek the Lord, and desire to do so even more, we are constantly reminded of how much we love all of you and are loved by you. We are so grateful for your love for Christ and all the saints because of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
We love you and continue to pray for you all.
"May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. May he lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace."
We love you and continue to pray for you all.
"May the Lord bless you and keep you. May the Lord make his face to shine upon you and be gracious to you. May he lift up his countenance upon you and give you peace."
Friday, July 16, 2010
May have found housing!
Last night I was looking online (mainly craigslist) for housing. I was really discouraged and felt doubt creeping in that God wasn't going to provide. I turned off the laptop and prayed; just a simple prayer- "Lord I'm doubting. Grant me repentance. I don't think I'm testing you by asking that you show me that you will provide, so please help my unbelief."
Now up until now, I've had a few certain things in mind when it comes to housing (up to this point I hadn't seen anything that fit the bill):
1.) That it would be a 2 bedroom mobile home;
2.) That it would be in Lenoir, NC;
3.) That it would be in the northern part of the city;
4.) That it would be a six month lease;
5.) That it wouldn't be a lot of money (had in mind $400-$500 a month);
5 1/2.) As a little side, I've always wanted to live up on a mountain with a driveway that went up to the house
So after praying, Megan came into the room and I told her that I had been doubting and she prayed with me. A few minutes later I went back online and onto Craigslist, forgetting about my doubting. Here is how he answered the prayers:
-At the exact time I had asked him to show me that he would provide, a new listing was put on Craigslist
-It is a 2 bedroom mobile home
-It is in the norther part of Lenoir, NC
-The landlord is asking specifically for a 6-month lease
-It's $425 a month!
-And to top it all off, it is on top of a little hill with a driveway leading up to it.
So I contacted the landlord immediately (after praising God) and he responded immediately and sent me an application. We are going to send the application to him today.
Please pray that God's will will be done. We will be fine either way, knowing that God will provide for us. This was a sweet reminder that he hears our prayers, that he will provide, and yes, he may even give us exactly what we had in mind.
Love you guys!
Now up until now, I've had a few certain things in mind when it comes to housing (up to this point I hadn't seen anything that fit the bill):
1.) That it would be a 2 bedroom mobile home;
2.) That it would be in Lenoir, NC;
3.) That it would be in the northern part of the city;
4.) That it would be a six month lease;
5.) That it wouldn't be a lot of money (had in mind $400-$500 a month);
5 1/2.) As a little side, I've always wanted to live up on a mountain with a driveway that went up to the house
So after praying, Megan came into the room and I told her that I had been doubting and she prayed with me. A few minutes later I went back online and onto Craigslist, forgetting about my doubting. Here is how he answered the prayers:
-At the exact time I had asked him to show me that he would provide, a new listing was put on Craigslist
-It is a 2 bedroom mobile home
-It is in the norther part of Lenoir, NC
-The landlord is asking specifically for a 6-month lease
-It's $425 a month!
-And to top it all off, it is on top of a little hill with a driveway leading up to it.
So I contacted the landlord immediately (after praising God) and he responded immediately and sent me an application. We are going to send the application to him today.
Please pray that God's will will be done. We will be fine either way, knowing that God will provide for us. This was a sweet reminder that he hears our prayers, that he will provide, and yes, he may even give us exactly what we had in mind.
Love you guys!
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Meeting tonight - possible partners!
Megan and I will be meeting tonight with a few friends to discuss them possibly joining us for the work in Appalachia. Please pray for wisdom and discernment for all parties.
A Sweet Reminder of How Great Our God Is!
We are continually thankful for your prayers. The Lord has been pleased to give us such joy and peace. May he sustain it throughout today!
The following Psalm was a great encouragement to me this morning. He steadfast love endures forever!
Psalm 111
Praise the LORD!
I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart,
in the company of the upright, in the congregation.
Great are the works of the LORD,
studied by all who delight in them.
Full of splendor and majesty is his work,
and his righteousness endures forever.
He has caused his wondrous works to be remembered;
the LORD is gracious and merciful.
He provides food for those who fear him;
he remembers his covenant forever.
He has shown his people the power of his works,
in giving them the inheritance of the nations.
The works of his hands are faithful and just;
all his precepts are trustworthy;
they are established forever and ever,
to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness.
He sent redemption to his people;
he has commanded his covenant forever.
Holy and awesome is his name!
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;
all those who practice it have a good understanding.
His praise endures forever!
May the Lord bless all of you today with an amazing love and joy in Christ!
The following Psalm was a great encouragement to me this morning. He steadfast love endures forever!
Psalm 111
Praise the LORD!
I will give thanks to the LORD with my whole heart,
in the company of the upright, in the congregation.
Great are the works of the LORD,
studied by all who delight in them.
Full of splendor and majesty is his work,
and his righteousness endures forever.
He has caused his wondrous works to be remembered;
the LORD is gracious and merciful.
He provides food for those who fear him;
he remembers his covenant forever.
He has shown his people the power of his works,
in giving them the inheritance of the nations.
The works of his hands are faithful and just;
all his precepts are trustworthy;
they are established forever and ever,
to be performed with faithfulness and uprightness.
He sent redemption to his people;
he has commanded his covenant forever.
Holy and awesome is his name!
The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom;
all those who practice it have a good understanding.
His praise endures forever!
May the Lord bless all of you today with an amazing love and joy in Christ!
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Satan knows where to attack
He can't destroy our relationship with God because Christ has secured us as children, but the enemy is ready to pounce on the next great relationship: Our Marriages. Pray for humility and grace as we sense his presence and our sins.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Please pray for us!
These past couple of days have been a struggle. Many temptations to not put our trust and hope in God have been getting in the way of faith in God's promises. Especially me, Bill. I have been doubting that God will provide for tuition and housing. I have been questioning whether or not to even attend seminary, when the Appalachian people don't need or care to have a seminary graduate. I have been struggling with not getting a "job" that promises a paycheck, but only going to school, advocating for the church overseas and ministering to the church and people of Appalachia and trusting God to provide. School loans are not helping this. All I have to do is circle accept and every need to trust God will vanish.
Please pray that we don't stumble and fall back into unbelief, doubt, and into our familiar American lifestyle. When I set my heart and mind on things above God is gracious to give me the faith I need, but once I start thinking and trying to figure things out on my own faith vanishes and anxiety creeps in.
All this is resulting in a lack of love, compassion, and grace toward my wife and children.
Please pray for us! Praise God that he is faithful even when we are faithless!
Please pray that we don't stumble and fall back into unbelief, doubt, and into our familiar American lifestyle. When I set my heart and mind on things above God is gracious to give me the faith I need, but once I start thinking and trying to figure things out on my own faith vanishes and anxiety creeps in.
All this is resulting in a lack of love, compassion, and grace toward my wife and children.
Please pray for us! Praise God that he is faithful even when we are faithless!
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
The Gospel for Appalachia
Courtesy of the late 'Internet Monk,' Mike Spencer:
Read about Appalachia and the Gospel in this 3-part post:
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Read about Appalachia and the Gospel in this 3-part post:
Part One
Part Two
Part Three
Monday, July 5, 2010
The Poorest of the Poor in America-
We all can conjure up the image of the poor third-world children and their parents, dirty and hungry. We can all imagine the poor missionaries in India trying to survive everyday on little to no food, water, and housing. But there's another group of people who seem to have been neglected right here in the United States. They do not dwell in urban areas where people and resources are plentiful; they live in the mountains of Kentucky, Tennessee, North Carolina, Virginia, and West Virginia.
These are the poorest of the poor in our nation, and overall, they are being neglected.
Among these people are brothers and sisters who lack solid, Christ-centered, Gospel teaching and living. These brothers and sisters lack food, sanitation, healthcare, and safe housing.
We are praying that the Lord of the Harvest would send laborers into this field, both to spread a passion for the supremacy of God in Appalachia and to love and build up his church.
Is this where we are called? Jesus commanded his disciples to pray for laborers and then sent them out.
May the gospel reign among this hardened people! May his church be diligent to love them.
These are the poorest of the poor in our nation, and overall, they are being neglected.
Among these people are brothers and sisters who lack solid, Christ-centered, Gospel teaching and living. These brothers and sisters lack food, sanitation, healthcare, and safe housing.
We are praying that the Lord of the Harvest would send laborers into this field, both to spread a passion for the supremacy of God in Appalachia and to love and build up his church.
Is this where we are called? Jesus commanded his disciples to pray for laborers and then sent them out.
May the gospel reign among this hardened people! May his church be diligent to love them.
Thursday, July 1, 2010
Sunday, June 27, 2010
GFA Bible College Campus Flooded
Please pray for our brothers and sisters who attend one of the Gospel for Asia Bible Colleges in Manipur, India. They ask that we pray that their buildings and dormitories would dry quickly; and that they would not get sick from contaminated water.
Please consider giving to help them during this time. 100% goes to the field.
Click Here to Read More!
Please consider giving to help them during this time. 100% goes to the field.
Click Here to Read More!
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Technology is Wonderful!
We have figured out how to allow people to sign up on the blog for automatic e-mail updates!
If you are receiving this post in an e-mail, there is no need to sign up, you are already on the list.
If you are receiving this post in an e-mail, there is no need to sign up, you are already on the list.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Charlotte here we come!
The Lord has been gracious to have Bill accepted into Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC!
It seems the Lord is putting everything into place for our move (his love and faithfulness to us are beyond my comprehension). And while we are saddened by having to leave our family in the Twin Cities, we are excited to see what he has in store for us and for them, knowing that it's all for our good and his glory. That is, it is all working together to conform his children into the image of Christ.
Four Prayer Requests:
1.) That we would continue to seek him and not rely on ourselves;
2.) That he would provide for us a place to live;
3.) That he would provide for tuition;
4.) That we wouldn't waste time in Charlotte, but start our ministry to the persecuted church as soon as possible.
It seems the Lord is putting everything into place for our move (his love and faithfulness to us are beyond my comprehension). And while we are saddened by having to leave our family in the Twin Cities, we are excited to see what he has in store for us and for them, knowing that it's all for our good and his glory. That is, it is all working together to conform his children into the image of Christ.
Four Prayer Requests:
1.) That we would continue to seek him and not rely on ourselves;
2.) That he would provide for us a place to live;
3.) That he would provide for tuition;
4.) That we wouldn't waste time in Charlotte, but start our ministry to the persecuted church as soon as possible.
Monday, June 21, 2010
Focus!
Pride and self-obsession. These seem to be a recurring theme in our hearts. Lately we're reminded how merciful and faithful our God is, to show us ourselves, then grant us the grace of repentance and faith.
We don't want to make this blog all about us - it is for prayer requests and personal updates, but more than that, we want it to be about God's power in the lives of his people - something we see manifested so clearly in the lives of people like brothers Pranab and Deenadayalan who have obeyed the call to preach the gospel in their homeland, and whom we have the privilege of partnering with.
See how you can come alongside of these men and others like them here.
We don't want to make this blog all about us - it is for prayer requests and personal updates, but more than that, we want it to be about God's power in the lives of his people - something we see manifested so clearly in the lives of people like brothers Pranab and Deenadayalan who have obeyed the call to preach the gospel in their homeland, and whom we have the privilege of partnering with.
See how you can come alongside of these men and others like them here.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Free Brother Gao!
"Remember those who are in prison, as though in prison with them, and those who are mistreated, since you also are in the body." Hebrews 13:3
The following is the story of a dear brother whom Megan and I have had the opportunity to pray for over the past 12 months. He is not the only believer imprisoned for being a disciple of Jesus, but he has been imprisoned in China for over a year and has been missing for months. It is feared that his life is in serious jeopardy. Please come along side Gao in prayer and by signing the petition to the Chinese Embassy in Washington, DC to let Gao rejoin his family in the United States.
http://www.freegao.com/index.html?refnum=
The following is the story of a dear brother whom Megan and I have had the opportunity to pray for over the past 12 months. He is not the only believer imprisoned for being a disciple of Jesus, but he has been imprisoned in China for over a year and has been missing for months. It is feared that his life is in serious jeopardy. Please come along side Gao in prayer and by signing the petition to the Chinese Embassy in Washington, DC to let Gao rejoin his family in the United States.
http://www.freegao.com/index.html?refnum=
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
What Can That Buy, Really?
For a long time, my biggest excuse to hold onto things and not sell them was the knowledge that in this country, where items are mass produced, most people prefer to buy new, cheap things, rather than used cheap things. So, selling our stuff wouldn't really bring in enough profit to make it worthwhile - there just wouldn't be enough of a return to help anyone.
The ministry of Gospel For Asia, and especially K.P. Yohanan's book Revolution in World Missions has virtually eliminated that excuse in my mind.
If you go to the GFA donation page, you'll find that the price of goods and services is extraordinarily less in India and other Asian countries than one might think. A great example is the cost of gospel tracts. I found on the American Tract Society's web page, that I can buy one pack of 50 gospel tracts for around $8.00. On the GFA site, I can supply 200 gospel tracts to a native missionary in India for $1.00. Regardless of your views on the use of gospel tracts, this knowledge is, at least for me, transformative. Bibles can be purchesed for $3. Native missionaries and their families can be fully supported for between $120 and $210 per month.
This information really changes the way I view that cup of Caribou coffee that I love to indulge in.
The ministry of Gospel For Asia, and especially K.P. Yohanan's book Revolution in World Missions has virtually eliminated that excuse in my mind.
If you go to the GFA donation page, you'll find that the price of goods and services is extraordinarily less in India and other Asian countries than one might think. A great example is the cost of gospel tracts. I found on the American Tract Society's web page, that I can buy one pack of 50 gospel tracts for around $8.00. On the GFA site, I can supply 200 gospel tracts to a native missionary in India for $1.00. Regardless of your views on the use of gospel tracts, this knowledge is, at least for me, transformative. Bibles can be purchesed for $3. Native missionaries and their families can be fully supported for between $120 and $210 per month.
This information really changes the way I view that cup of Caribou coffee that I love to indulge in.
A Thought to Think About...
This blog posting from 'Knowledge is becoming your own person' (not quite sure I understand the title yet) is exactly what I needed to hear this morning. Maybe you do too. Click Here!
Monday, June 14, 2010
Hard Night, Great Day
Posted by Megan
God has really sustained us this weekend.
I'll just give you a brief rundown of what it felt/looked like for me, so you'll know how to pray.
Friday night, I went to bed feeling pretty discouraged, anxious, fearful.
Saturday, we spent the morning praying and again reading through the Scriptures that are closest to our heart and I was spurred on. Then, God blessed our sale so much, we were too busy all morning to really think about what we were doing. It was exciting though, when we got a minute, to think about how clearly God was blessing our meager efforts.
By the end of the weekend, I was exhausted and feeling pretty distant from Christ.
But, this morning the Lord blessed me from his word. He brought to mind Luke 16:19-31, the story of the rich man and Lazarus.
I posted my thoughts on a different page, if anyone is interested in reading specifically how the Lord encouraged me heart through this passage.
After all is said and done, we still have a few pieces of furniture that we'll put on Craig's list, and I think those will sell quickly.
God has really sustained us this weekend.
I'll just give you a brief rundown of what it felt/looked like for me, so you'll know how to pray.
Friday night, I went to bed feeling pretty discouraged, anxious, fearful.
Saturday, we spent the morning praying and again reading through the Scriptures that are closest to our heart and I was spurred on. Then, God blessed our sale so much, we were too busy all morning to really think about what we were doing. It was exciting though, when we got a minute, to think about how clearly God was blessing our meager efforts.
By the end of the weekend, I was exhausted and feeling pretty distant from Christ.
But, this morning the Lord blessed me from his word. He brought to mind Luke 16:19-31, the story of the rich man and Lazarus.
I posted my thoughts on a different page, if anyone is interested in reading specifically how the Lord encouraged me heart through this passage.
After all is said and done, we still have a few pieces of furniture that we'll put on Craig's list, and I think those will sell quickly.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
Answered Prayer: Money for our Brothers and Sisters!
God is faithful. (What an understatement.)
After our first day of selling, he has been gracious enough to answer our prayers that people would come. And not only did people come, but before 9am we were up $200!
By the end of the day, the total was around $400. This will provide so much for our family overseas who live on an average of $2/day!
We have one day left. And although most of the good stuff is gone, we still have things to sell and are confident that they will.
Father, thank you for hearing our prayers despite our doubt. May you use this money to provide for your children.
After our first day of selling, he has been gracious enough to answer our prayers that people would come. And not only did people come, but before 9am we were up $200!
By the end of the day, the total was around $400. This will provide so much for our family overseas who live on an average of $2/day!
We have one day left. And although most of the good stuff is gone, we still have things to sell and are confident that they will.
Father, thank you for hearing our prayers despite our doubt. May you use this money to provide for your children.
Friday, June 11, 2010
We've seen a lot of peaks and valleys this week as we actually go through our belongings and put prices on them. Some of our things have a lot of sentimental value for me. Others, I just have a hard time imagining life without. In the midst of it, the Lord has been pressing on my heart the truth of his word, reminding me that he is a good Father who knows how to give good gifts to his children. Some moments, I'll look at something and think, I'm going to need that every day, why are we selling it? Then, I'm reminded that I only THINK I need it, and that if I truly do, the Lord will provide it for me. I'm really seeing the truth about how little I believe his word, then soon after, he gives me grace to believe it more.
It also helps to think about the reality of those in God's kingdom who have never had a bed, but have always slept on a mat on the floor. At least we'll be keeping our pillows and blankets.
And I think about families who have always eaten while sitting on the floor, and their children simply learn to stay put until dinner is done. None of what we'll be experiencing is new, or terrible, just new to us. It will be an adjustment, but God will give us grace.
One thing I hope my heart will be purged of is the subtle notion that happiness, tradition, family memories, all require lots of possessions and money.
Lord, help me to press hard into you during this time, knowing that you bore my sins on the cross, so that I might die to sin and live to righteousness - You are all the happiness I need, the only true and lasting happiness there is!
Please pray for us that we truly would have discernment about what we should keep - our pile of things to hold onto is getting bigger, and we'll be going through it repeatedly, removing things that our hearts are clinging to unnecessarily.
And please continue to pray earnestly that the Lord would send people to our sale this weekend, and that everything would go!
It also helps to think about the reality of those in God's kingdom who have never had a bed, but have always slept on a mat on the floor. At least we'll be keeping our pillows and blankets.
And I think about families who have always eaten while sitting on the floor, and their children simply learn to stay put until dinner is done. None of what we'll be experiencing is new, or terrible, just new to us. It will be an adjustment, but God will give us grace.
One thing I hope my heart will be purged of is the subtle notion that happiness, tradition, family memories, all require lots of possessions and money.
Lord, help me to press hard into you during this time, knowing that you bore my sins on the cross, so that I might die to sin and live to righteousness - You are all the happiness I need, the only true and lasting happiness there is!
Please pray for us that we truly would have discernment about what we should keep - our pile of things to hold onto is getting bigger, and we'll be going through it repeatedly, removing things that our hearts are clinging to unnecessarily.
And please continue to pray earnestly that the Lord would send people to our sale this weekend, and that everything would go!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Provisions already
God has graciously begun to provide for us in unexpected ways! What a kind and generous Father we have, who leads his people to be so generous toward one another. We shared our plans with our Shepherd Group, and Bill casually mentioned that he was planning to sell our computer and use the money to buy a laptop, since our desktop would be really hard to fit into our van, and we don't intend to rent a trailer or truck to move whatever remains of our belongings. At the same time, we know that a computer is indispensible to us for a number of reasons.
At the end of the evening, one of our brothers approached Bill and offered to give him a laptop.
We are rejoicing that now we can use the money from the computer to give to our brothers and sisters overseas!
What's more, earlier that same day, I had noticed that the crayons in the house were so broken that they were no longer useful. After Shepherd Group, without my asking, one of the other moms in the group handed me two boxes of crayons! It really felt like God was graciously building our faith and showing us how deeply he cares for us, and will provide for us, even down to the smallest details of our lives! What a loving God we serve.
At the same time we are somewhat sorrowed knowing that, while God is giving us crayons and a laptop worth hundreds of dollars, members of the Body of Christ are starving and suffering things that we couldn't even begin to imagine. May we not take for granted God's kindness and turn it into a curse.
Father, strengthen us that we would not feel guilty because of what you give us, and may we use what is given to us for the sake of our brothers and sisters, not ourselves. Give us discernment to obey and joy in our obedience.
At the end of the evening, one of our brothers approached Bill and offered to give him a laptop.
We are rejoicing that now we can use the money from the computer to give to our brothers and sisters overseas!
What's more, earlier that same day, I had noticed that the crayons in the house were so broken that they were no longer useful. After Shepherd Group, without my asking, one of the other moms in the group handed me two boxes of crayons! It really felt like God was graciously building our faith and showing us how deeply he cares for us, and will provide for us, even down to the smallest details of our lives! What a loving God we serve.
At the same time we are somewhat sorrowed knowing that, while God is giving us crayons and a laptop worth hundreds of dollars, members of the Body of Christ are starving and suffering things that we couldn't even begin to imagine. May we not take for granted God's kindness and turn it into a curse.
Father, strengthen us that we would not feel guilty because of what you give us, and may we use what is given to us for the sake of our brothers and sisters, not ourselves. Give us discernment to obey and joy in our obedience.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
Here We Have No Lasting City
We find ourselves, once again, on the precipice of a great adventure in following Jesus. As detailed in a previous post, God in His kindness and love for us, compels us to sell our possessions (except what will fit in our van) and give to the poor brothers overseas, and then come and follow him. We do this with so much joy and anticipation, and a little hesitation.
At the same time, we are considering another move across the country, this time back east to Charlotte, NC - where Bill can earn a seminary degree for much less than the cost of a degree from Bethel Seminary here in MN, and in less time than it would take at Bethel.
We have no job there, and no place to live, but there is certainly precedent in Scripture for trusting God with these kinds of provisions.
We don't claim to know the mind of the Lord in this matter. We only know that he will never leave us or forsake us, and that if we seek Him first, He promises to provide for our needs.
So, as we've prayed, we've already begun to prepare. We've informed Bethel that we will not be attending this fall, and we've applied to Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.
And, after months of prayer and waiting on the Lord, Bill has finally felt freed by God to give his notice at work. His last day will be July 23rd. We are excited about this decision because we feel it is necessary for Bill to have more time to prepare for seminary, minister through Voice of the Martyrs and GFA, and spend more time ministering in whichever local church we join.
Our lease is up at the end of this month, and one of the first confirmations to us that God is with us and will provide for us is that some friends have freely offered to let us stay with them while we're waiting to hear from the seminary. So we'll be moving in with them for the month of July. We're praying that we will be as much of a blessing to their family as they've already been to us.
At the same time, we are considering another move across the country, this time back east to Charlotte, NC - where Bill can earn a seminary degree for much less than the cost of a degree from Bethel Seminary here in MN, and in less time than it would take at Bethel.
We have no job there, and no place to live, but there is certainly precedent in Scripture for trusting God with these kinds of provisions.
We don't claim to know the mind of the Lord in this matter. We only know that he will never leave us or forsake us, and that if we seek Him first, He promises to provide for our needs.
So, as we've prayed, we've already begun to prepare. We've informed Bethel that we will not be attending this fall, and we've applied to Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary.
And, after months of prayer and waiting on the Lord, Bill has finally felt freed by God to give his notice at work. His last day will be July 23rd. We are excited about this decision because we feel it is necessary for Bill to have more time to prepare for seminary, minister through Voice of the Martyrs and GFA, and spend more time ministering in whichever local church we join.
Our lease is up at the end of this month, and one of the first confirmations to us that God is with us and will provide for us is that some friends have freely offered to let us stay with them while we're waiting to hear from the seminary. So we'll be moving in with them for the month of July. We're praying that we will be as much of a blessing to their family as they've already been to us.
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Less of the World, More of Christ
How sincerely do we really believe the Word of God?
This is the question that has spurred us on in the direction of seeking to trust His promises, and striving to live radically for the sake of the gospel, and the good of our poor brothers.
For years now, the Word of God has been pressing us to sell all our possessions and give to the poor, in order that we may have treasure in heaven. To say that we've resisted this "extreme measure," would be an understatement. We have strained against it and made up for ourselves all types of rationalizations for why this would be impractical. And so we've carried on feeling mostly content in, and even smug about living out our simplified version of the American dream.
But, the words of Christ and the writer's of the New Testament have pressed into us, and it seems we cannot ignore the Spirit in us, who delights in the Word of God, and instructs us from it. We also cannot ignore the examples of other believers, such as those in Philippi, whose "abundance of joy and extreme poverty" overflowed in a wealth of generosity toward taking part in the relief of the saints; and our dear brother George Mueller who devoted his life to demonstrating to the church how faithful and true is the God who loves us, and how great is His power toward us in Christ Jesus.
Ultimately, we've decided that we want more power. We want to have victory over sin, and we want a deeper, more abiding intimacy with Christ our Lord. We have prayed for it, sometimes with tears. And in faithfulness He has shown us his path toward gaining these things. Specifically, we believe He is calling us to loosen our grasp on the world - if anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him - to the point of literally selling all our possessions, which we have held so dear and in which, as we are finding out, we have trusted for our joy and satisfaction.
Our deepest desire and longing is to take the money from this sale and give to the poor brothers and sisters, especially those who are persecuted for the sake of Christ. Unless God clearly leads us otherwise, this is what we will do with the money we earn.
However, there is one potential hindrance to our plan - our debt. We owe several thousand dollars in college loans, and about $11,000 on our mini van. We are praying that God would somehow pay off these debts, thus freeing us to give more radically with a clear conscience.
Here are our prayer requests as we plan and prepare:
-That God would bring buyers to our "moving" sale, and all our possessions would sell quickly and at reasonable prices.
-We and our kids would find that God in Christ, is the supreme treasure of the universe, and be satisfied that we have already gained him.
-That we would be guarded against spiritual attack as we seek to live out the gospel in practical ways.
-That others would be encouraged, and even join us in laying down our American lifestyle for the sake of our brothers.
-That our debt would be paid in full.
This is the question that has spurred us on in the direction of seeking to trust His promises, and striving to live radically for the sake of the gospel, and the good of our poor brothers.
For years now, the Word of God has been pressing us to sell all our possessions and give to the poor, in order that we may have treasure in heaven. To say that we've resisted this "extreme measure," would be an understatement. We have strained against it and made up for ourselves all types of rationalizations for why this would be impractical. And so we've carried on feeling mostly content in, and even smug about living out our simplified version of the American dream.
But, the words of Christ and the writer's of the New Testament have pressed into us, and it seems we cannot ignore the Spirit in us, who delights in the Word of God, and instructs us from it. We also cannot ignore the examples of other believers, such as those in Philippi, whose "abundance of joy and extreme poverty" overflowed in a wealth of generosity toward taking part in the relief of the saints; and our dear brother George Mueller who devoted his life to demonstrating to the church how faithful and true is the God who loves us, and how great is His power toward us in Christ Jesus.
Ultimately, we've decided that we want more power. We want to have victory over sin, and we want a deeper, more abiding intimacy with Christ our Lord. We have prayed for it, sometimes with tears. And in faithfulness He has shown us his path toward gaining these things. Specifically, we believe He is calling us to loosen our grasp on the world - if anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him - to the point of literally selling all our possessions, which we have held so dear and in which, as we are finding out, we have trusted for our joy and satisfaction.
Our deepest desire and longing is to take the money from this sale and give to the poor brothers and sisters, especially those who are persecuted for the sake of Christ. Unless God clearly leads us otherwise, this is what we will do with the money we earn.
However, there is one potential hindrance to our plan - our debt. We owe several thousand dollars in college loans, and about $11,000 on our mini van. We are praying that God would somehow pay off these debts, thus freeing us to give more radically with a clear conscience.
Here are our prayer requests as we plan and prepare:
-That God would bring buyers to our "moving" sale, and all our possessions would sell quickly and at reasonable prices.
-We and our kids would find that God in Christ, is the supreme treasure of the universe, and be satisfied that we have already gained him.
-That we would be guarded against spiritual attack as we seek to live out the gospel in practical ways.
-That others would be encouraged, and even join us in laying down our American lifestyle for the sake of our brothers.
-That our debt would be paid in full.
What 1 John Tells Us
By this we know love, that he laid down his life for us, and we ought to lay down our lives for the brothers. But if anyone has the world's goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God's love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.
(1 John 3:16-18)
This, along with many other scriptures, has been transforming our thinking about ourselves, our brothers, and our own possessions. We live in a time when the needs of our brothers across the globe are right before our very eyes.
There are native missionaries who travel throughout the unreached villages of India, crossing cultures in their own country and facing intense persecution, in order to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. Men and women in Muslim countries, lose their jobs, their possessions, and very often their lives for the sake of Christ. In North Korea, God's children are the last to receive food rations, and are subject to the most extreme persecution perpetrated in the world today.
Thanks to ministries such as Gospel For Asia, Voice of the Martyrs, Open Doors, and HeartCry Missionary Society, we have access to stories of great triumph in hostile places where the name of Christ is held in scorn. And we have access to the stories of faithful believers who do not earn a steady income, because it is more profitable to them to make known the name of Christ. So, after a day of laboring in the harvest fields, they put their hungry children to bed, urging them to drink more water as a way of relieving the pain of too little food.
We have come to believe the Word of God, and if we ignore these, the needs of our brothers, how can the love of God be in us?
(1 John 3:16-18)
This, along with many other scriptures, has been transforming our thinking about ourselves, our brothers, and our own possessions. We live in a time when the needs of our brothers across the globe are right before our very eyes.
There are native missionaries who travel throughout the unreached villages of India, crossing cultures in their own country and facing intense persecution, in order to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ. Men and women in Muslim countries, lose their jobs, their possessions, and very often their lives for the sake of Christ. In North Korea, God's children are the last to receive food rations, and are subject to the most extreme persecution perpetrated in the world today.
Thanks to ministries such as Gospel For Asia, Voice of the Martyrs, Open Doors, and HeartCry Missionary Society, we have access to stories of great triumph in hostile places where the name of Christ is held in scorn. And we have access to the stories of faithful believers who do not earn a steady income, because it is more profitable to them to make known the name of Christ. So, after a day of laboring in the harvest fields, they put their hungry children to bed, urging them to drink more water as a way of relieving the pain of too little food.
We have come to believe the Word of God, and if we ignore these, the needs of our brothers, how can the love of God be in us?
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Do We Believe Him?
Matthew 6:25-33
“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air: they neither sow nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not of more value than they? And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? And why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you."
Our reason for beginning
We have begun this blog as a journal for our own benefit and, with the Lord's blessing, for the benefit of our brothers and sisters who are in Christ.
We are endeavoring, by God's grace, to believe the truth of the promises we have found in God's word, and not only to believe in word or talk, but with our lives.
We want to truly count everything as loss for the sake of knowing Christ.
We want our joy to be increased a thousand-fold in Jesus.
So, for the upbuilding of our own faith, and the faith of others, we will attempt to keep this record of God's faithfulness, and show how in all things, He is the satisfaction of our hunger.
We are endeavoring, by God's grace, to believe the truth of the promises we have found in God's word, and not only to believe in word or talk, but with our lives.
We want to truly count everything as loss for the sake of knowing Christ.
We want our joy to be increased a thousand-fold in Jesus.
So, for the upbuilding of our own faith, and the faith of others, we will attempt to keep this record of God's faithfulness, and show how in all things, He is the satisfaction of our hunger.
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