FACES - YWAM Singapore Issue.2017 | Page 7

What would you say to those who are challenged by some kind of suffering in their lives for which they’re baffled and angry at, and don’t know how to walk through it? God encouraged me with the story of Jesus calming the storm. He assured me that the Prince of Peace is in the boat with me. And He never sleeps, whether the seas are calm or raging. But until I overcome my inner struggles, fears and anxieties, I won’t be able to confront my external battles. Neither will I find rest and peace in Him, over and above my circumstances. God is invisible, but He isn’t blind. He can see us. He is ever present, omniscient and sovereign, so rest assured that even if you can’t see Him, He sees you. I may not be able to see God, but I know that He’s there. He knows everything that’s happening to me, and you. What are some of the misconceptions that people have of the disabled? The disabled are treated unjustly. If society does their part to empower and enrich them with opportunities, they can be enabled instead of being disabled. If we only focus on their outward appearances and qualifications, we can be deceived. The enemy can be a wolf clothed in sheep’s skin, and if we judge based on what we see, we can overlook a person’s potential. Come alongside these individuals and focus on what’s inside of them. It takes a lot of patience, but it’s possible. How would individuals who are weaker or have a disability like to be seen? Can you bring awareness and insight to this? Treat the disabled with dignity. Physical disability affects emotional well-being. Be watchful on our behalf, and be considerate. Take the initiative to assist us and look out for us. Be aware of the different people around you, so that you can extend grace and understanding to the needs of others. One important question to ask is, “How can I help you?” The way you help may not be what others desire. Your passion for missions is undeniable. What keeps this flame going? My first visit to China was in 1992 when I was introduced to the vast, gorgeously lush paddy fields. There was no end in sight, and yet, only 2 female farmers were tilling the land. At that moment, I understood what Jesus meant when He said in Matthew 9:37, “The harvest is plentiful but the workers are few.” I was in awe. My heart was captured for the mission field, but my visual impairment became an obstacle. Unfamiliar environments aren’t conducive for the blind and I fell a lot. But God’s an advocate for the blind and always preserves me. My refusal to step out will hinder me from experiencing and learning more about Him. We need to step out in faith. Only then can we taste God. He wants to show us His world. Without experience, and more importantly the Word, we won’t know Him. The people out there are hungry and the days are getting darker. If we miss the harvest, hearts will harden and turn away from Jesus. What have we done with everything we’ve been taught and heard? Only His truth will set people free – the whole truth, not just the principles we are conveniently in favour of. 5