by Jon Konnerup
Have you ever considered serving God in fulltime ministry? More specifically, is it possible the Holy Spirit is speaking to your heart about missions? Here are three items to consider.
LEARN WHERE GOD IS WORKING
Keep an eye on what is happening in the world and in missions. Research specific regions where you can serve. As a future missionary, it is important to be aware of the big picture and the BBFI Mission Office can help you understand the process. Consider:
- Is God calling me to a specific people or region of the world?
- Have I learned how the BBFI Mission Office can help me? Have I asked them where I can be used?
- Have I sought out missionaries already in the place to which God has called me — if there are any?
Next steps to take:
- Read missionary biographies.
- Ask the Mission Office for guidance.
- Take the necessary (or required) classes focused on the theology of missions and the Great Commission.
BEGIN NOW — DON’T WAIT
Don’t wait until you are overseas or in the region God has called you to be a missionary. Become an active member in your local church and begin serving right where you are. Ask yourself:
- Are there ways I can serve my church better?
- How can I think and act more like a missionary starting today?
- What are my spiritual gifts? How can I use them?
Next steps to take:
- Write your life’s mission statement and use it to prioritize activities.
- Evaluate how you serve now and ask yourself if you are really ready to make extreme sacrifices as an overseas missionary.
- Look for opportunities to serve your church right now by volunteering to help in various ways.
- Identify the skills and spiritual gifts God has given you and think about ways you can use them to serve God.
KEEP GOING — DON’T GET DISTRACTED
If God has placed a certain location or people on your heart, pray for His clear direction. Prepare yourself through Bible training and mission courses. Keep reading the Bible. Develop your skills and spiritual gifts. Learn to be an effective witness. Disciple new believers in Christ. Contact potential churches about a future internship for training.
The BBFI Mission Office is always available to help you through this process. The world needs more people answering God’s call in order that they might hear the Good News of salvation through Jesus Christ. Will you be one of many who will say, “Here am I; send me!”