In the two different books I am currently reading about missions, a similar thought process has arisen recently on the topic of calling. In Thomas Hale's book he notes, "The call to mission is as valid today as it ever was: if you haven't been called to stay you should plan to go." In Marti Smith's book, "Through Her Eyes," one missionary wife remarks, "As far as I'm concerned, the call is in the Book! What else do I need? The command is to go; from our perspective you have to have a call to stay."
Until these two thought-provoking quotes I hadn't really thought of it in that light. Right now I think John and I are still in the stage of wondering whether God wants us to stay or go... but I'm pretty sure we're supposed to go. It's just a matter of where God wants us to go. We're willing to go wherever He sees best- After all, His plans are best and always prevail. Though I'm willing to go, I know it's not going to be easy. Once again, as I've mentioned before, I'm thankful for this opportunity to see the reality of what we're getting ourselves into. But even now I don't think I know half of the difficulties that await us.... But God will get us through and hopefully in the midst of the hardships He'll mold us into His likeness. It's in really hot fire that silver is refined and similarly, we are refined through our greatest trials. We are finished when God sees His reflection in us. Unfortunately, we cannot get to that point apart from the fires. I want so badly to grow, but I dread the trials that produce this growth. Why is it so difficult to obey the admonishment given by James? He says, "Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face trials or many kinds..." (Jas. 1:2). It makes me want to pray: "Lord, make me 'mature and complete, not lacking in anything,' (v. 4) but don't let me suffer too much, please...." He does say He won't allow us to be tempted beyond what we can bear... and He turns all things into good... No, that still doesn't mean it will be easy, but I can at least cling to these promises.
Lord, I think You ahead of time for the trials and difficulties I am going to face in the future. Please help me to glorify You in my response to these trials. Use them to purge me of my character flaws and form me into Your Son's image. Let Your will be done in my life.
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