my provider

"All the world is mine, and all that is in it." - God

In his book, Courageous Leadership, Bill Hybels said that we should never forget that God is our chief supporter. I remember reading that statement and nodding in agreement. We all believe that, right? So why do I pack my finest stationary into my luggage when going overseas? Why do I get frustrated when support money doesn't come in like I thought it would? Why do I worry, and look for ways to cast blame? I guess deep down I still believed that my chief supporter is the guy with the Lexus, or the lady with the Prada purse. Shoot, my chief supporter is the person who tells me they will donate this month, whether or not they actually donate. I don’t think God likes that mindset, because He decided to teach me another lesson this week.

On Tuesday night, our leader called us into the lecture room and explained that we needed a combined total of 3500 dollars to finalize our outreach trip. It was sad and frustrating hearing that the support never came, especially when we truly believed that God wanted us there. So there we sat, in the middle of a quiet room, wondering how to solve this situation. It seemed impossible to me, because we don't have jobs, and most of us already emptied our bank accounts. So I decided to ask God a tiny, little question, "Lord, what more can I give?"

It's kind of a selfish question isn't it? I mean, He could have said the same thing to me. There was the time in 7th grade when I got off the hook for shoplifting, the three inch scar I have on my wrist from a work accident my sophomore year in high school, and don't even get me started about college. I have made a mess of my life in a million ways, yet He continues to faithfully protect me. He, the God and creator of the universe, the Holy of Holies who has angels worship at His feet day and night, the bright morning star who knows them all by name, could have easily said, "Father, what more do I have to give for this kid?" But instead He said, "Father, if there is no other way to bring Josh home, I’ll do it myself." He made the roman guards hold His garments while He climbed onto that cross.

So we prayed...oh, did we pray. We asked God to lead the way. We reminded that if He could multiply 5 loaves and 2 fish, He could do it with some money. I mean, $3500 isn't even 8 months worth of wages! About 10 minutes later, people started saying, "I'll donate $100." I have to admit that I was thinking the money would come in from family and friends back home. Missionary kids supporting missionary kids? That doesn't fit my understanding of missions work, but that's who God used. Within 20 minutes, we had the remaining balance at zero. One of the student's was short about $1500, and had hopes in America...God used missionary kids.

It's an incredible testimony, and a vivid reminder who writes my checks. I'm learning that it's easy to get frustrated at people when you think of them as your chief supporters. It's easy to try to please or manipulate when you need them to write you a check, and that nobody wants to be manipulated for money. It's good to have supporters, but great to see people sacrificing in order to get involved in God's work. My work will never save you, but you can get involved by clicking on the "donate" button on the upper right of this blog.

As a conclusion, I want to thank my supporters and express my deepest appreciation for you. Whether you pray for me, send your regards, or donate money; I need the encouragement. Please continue giving me feedback, and let me know how I can pray for you! A special thanks to the couple that donated not only money, but countless time into discipling me.