Sending an Encouraging Word

I opened an email this morning that changed something important in me. It was intended as encouragement, which I received gratefully. There was some unintended truth, though, that's left me convicted and determined to do better. 

It was from one of our missionaries in an undisclosed country. 

"We can't tell you how much it means to us to see that Father has and still is answering prayers. We prayed over two years more than once that He would send someone to send an encouraging word from time to time..."

Imagine their situation for a moment. Two missionaries. Thousands of miles from home. Separated from all those they love by a wall of secrecy intended to protect them from hostile governments. Lonely. Uncertain. Probably afraid. 

Praying that someone would reach out with a word of encouragement. 

The email I sent was little more than one sentence. 

"We spoke with Dad and asked Him to direct every step, provide all that's needed, and fill you with peace and joy."

Those simple words filled a missionary with hope. 

They weren't forgotten. 

Someone cared. 

Someone took the time to send an email...

After we have morning prayer time at Home Office, I take the list of missionaries for whom we've prayed and email them with an encouraging word about our prayers. We have hundreds of missionaries in more than 40 countries, so most missionaries hear from me no more often than once a month. 

Today's email reminded me that 

Global Outreach isn't the only mission-sending organization. There are literally thousands of missionaries serving far from their friends and families, and they're all eager for a word of encouragement. A reminder of love from home.

We can help by becoming a "prayer-sponsor." Why not join the work of Global's prayer ministry by sponsoring a missionary with an ongoing "prayer-donation?" Your gift of time and prayer support would mean so much to them. (comment or message me if you'd like to help)

Missionaries, however, are not the only ones in need of an encouraging word from time to time. People everywhere need to know that someone cares, so let's reach out to those around us. Offer a hug. A smile. A kind word. 

Why not give a bit of encouragement today? It won't cost a thing, but it could mean the world to someone who's lonely or discouraged.

"And the King will say, 'I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to Me!'" Matthew 25:40 nlt

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In case you missed it, here's the link to yesterday's post: Sold Out From the Start

*** I'm sharing about my Jordan Journey at a brunch on Saturday. We'll sample Jordanian food and hear stories from my trip. April 1 at 10:30-12 at Global Outreach home office, 74 Kings Highway, Pontotoc MS, and you're all invited. Comment or message me if you'd like to come.***

If God has called you to help with this ministry of digital and in-person outreach (both in the US and around the world), here's the link to give your tax-deductible donations: Global Outreach Acct 4841 or you can mail your check or money order to:

Global Outreach/ PO Box 1, Tupelo MS 38802. Be sure to put Account 4841 in the "for" line.

#Jesus