Friends,
I posted the letter below as a blog entry yesterday. It was well-received, so I decided to send it to the entire prayer letter list. Join the conversation by subscribing to Bill’s Blog at https://interglo.org/blog-
Introduction: In the last couple of prayer letters, I revealed that the cost of the Kurdistan trip will be in the neighborhood of $15,000. It is also true that my future ministry travel will be equally expensive. The question is, why?
Here is what a friend who cares deeply asked by email, “Is the greatest expense for the trip airfare, security, or something else?”
My reply was, —–, Thanks for asking. The greatest expense, by far, is airfare. This is because one of my replaced hips has difficulty bearing long flights. The airline seats cause me pain. I need to get up frequently to stretch it out. This makes it difficult to recover from the flight and then minister. After enduring this several times, I decided I would need to fly first class, which costs at least twice as much as economy. The cost of this upcoming flight is $10,000+. I feel quite wimpy.”
I have wondered aloud whether it was worth the cost. After all, most (all) of what I teach could be taught by others. Two things I have learned: 1) Others are not available. 2) There is something about the Spirit of God using surrendered individuals with their individuality, passion, commitment, and love for others that communicates to the one being ministered to. If that makes sense.
So, I have simply decided to continue as the Lord provides. If He does not provide, it will be time to understand that His will for me is to stay home.
Deb feels that God wants her to stay in Simpsonville for various reasons, including spending time with grandchildren, creating her art, gardening, and keeping us healthy. We hope to transform our living space and yard into a creative wonderland where folks can come, enjoy themselves, and learn about God. Deb would consider going with me, and God would richly use her, but we do think the cost would become prohibitive.
Scripture
Philippians 4:10 But I rejoiced in the Lord greatly, that now at last you have revived your concern for me; indeed, you were concerned before, but you lacked opportunity. (NASB)
Comment: There is a church that supports us and has twice had to reduce its support, only to increase it again when it was able to.
Philippians 4:11 Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. 12 I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. 13 I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. (NASB)
Comment: Deb and I do not desire financial riches. Well, actually, that would be fun, but it is not something we pursue. We know how to live simply and rather enjoy it. God has always provided our needs.
Philippians 4:14 Nevertheless, you have done well to share with me in my affliction. (NASB)
Comment: When supporters help us serve the Lord, or rather, when they serve the Lord alongside us, this is commendable.
Philippians 4:15 You yourselves also know, Philippians, that at the first preaching of the gospel, after I left Macedonia, no church shared with me in the matter of giving and receiving but you alone; 16 for even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs. 17 Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account. 18 But I have received everything in full and have an abundance; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you have sent, a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God. (NASB)
Comment: Exactly!
Philippians 4:19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus. (NASB)
Comments: I believe this promise applies to both the donor and the one doing the work. As we pursue His will by faith, He will provide what is needed.
Another Scripture
Psalm 37:1 Trust in the Lord and do good; Dwell in the land and cultivate faithfulness. 4 Delight yourself in the Lord; And He will give you the desires of your heart. 5 Commit your way to the Lord, Trust also in Him, and He will do it.
Comment: What God places in our hearts, He will provide for.