OMS Outreach September-December 2014 | Page 8

As Christians, we are taught to place our lives in God’s hands, to fully trust and depend on his care. But when our faith is stretched and tested can we radically depend on him? We hope you are challenged, inspired, and encouraged by the story of this faithful OMS family, serving in a secure country. OMS: You’re North American. Why did you choose to take your family of six to serve in Asia, so far from home? OMS: Missionary M: OMS: It was God’s call. We came to realize that the place we would be most content and fulfilled would be wherever God wanted us to be. So we needed to be committed and obedient and do it. You have a son with life-threatening physical challenges, yet you serve in a country that is not medically advanced. How do you have the faith to do this? Missionary M: It’s scary, but God challenged us at one point: “Who do you trust more? Me or a medical system?” We also came to realize that if God gives you a clear plan, then there is no need for a backup plan. So, we prayed for a clear sign. We prayed for six months, and all we heard was silence. Then, one day, the message was very clear from the Word. So clear, in fact, there was no question! But even after that, he confirmed his plan clearly in other ways. He wanted us to go, so we were able to move forward with confidence. You’re in a country where security is an everyday issue. You have also lived through a deadly earthquake, a serious flood, and several medical emergencies within the family. Do you ever ask God if you’re going to get a break? Missionary M: He’s been faithful to give us a break between each crisis. Sometimes, it’s just enough to rest and ready ourselves for the next thing, but it’s always enough. I have questioned people in my mind—why is no one helping me, or why are they actually making our lives harder. But I choose not to let the frustration get me discouraged. In the early years on the field, we lived with a bag packed and ready to go at any moment in case we got kicked out. Today, we feel the watchful eye of the government, but we also feel more comfortable overall, knowing that our lives are in the Lord’s hands. If he wants us here, he’ll keep us here. 8