Why Support Raising Does NOT suck, Part I

(originally posted june 27)
So, I'm nearing the end of my first month of raising support. I'm on staff with Great Commission Ministries (as of a month ago) and will be serving at a campus church I was a part of in college.

This process has been one I can't put into words, but it is different for every person because support raising is more about what God wants to do in your life at that time to reveal more of His heart for you and more of your calling as you prepare for a career of vocational missions. It's been incredible to say the least, I am humbled daily yet in awe of who God is and filled with joy as I realize how great He is again and again.

A friend of mine I met at staff training recently took the words right out of my mouth as he described this process in a series of posts titled, why support raising doesn't suck. I've stolen his for these next few posts.

Here's reasons 1 and 2:

"1 Especially for those who like to be in control, it renders you utterly helpless. Why do we have such weak prayer lives here in the States? Probably because we perceive so little need in light of our affluence. My physical and financial needs have always been met. Never in my life have i been in a place of financial need–until now. There is a different kind of prayer that brings you to your knees all throughout the day, on your face pleading with your Father to provide–because you know if he doesn’t, you don’t eat and your creditors come for you. I would not trade it.

2 Typically people take sinful pride in the work of their hands, even though it is God who has done it. This is what Deuteronomy 8 warns against, but we seldom heed God’s command. If you get the theology of Proverbs 21:1, you get that every name, every phone dial, every person you talk to, every meeting you get, every person who comes on as a supporter–is because of God, not you. And Psalm 127 reminds you that unless the Lord gives you favor, you can’t even get another name to call, let alone someone to meet with you, let alone someone who will support you. Proverbs 16:33 reminds me that it’s all God–therefore to Him be ALL glory and praise; to the Giver.

These are only a few of what could seriously end up at hundreds of reasons why support raising does NOT suck. It’s hard, really hard–but there’s joy in it. Tonight i had an especially awesome meeting with some supporters. Such a blessing and gift; i felt compelled to share a few truths God has been teaching me–especially in light of the way i glibly reply to my friends when they ask about the process, saying, “It sucks…”

Please pray for me to see my sin of pride clearly and repent of it thoroughly. There’s a lot of sweet truth i think God wants to speak to people through me, but i am at risk of ruining it through my arrogance and pride. I hate it and i am praying and pressing into the Holy Spirit to change me. Please pray for me to have a soft heart. I am grateful for my friends who love me enough to truly speak this truth to me in love–there is so much i desire to learn from them in humility. "