TUESDAY June 20, 2023

Laying the Foundation for Missions

The two of them, sent on their way by the Holy Spirit, went down to Seleucia and sailed from there to Cyprus. When they arrived at Salamis, they proclaimed the word of God in the Jewish synagogues. John was with them as their helper.
Acts 13:4-5 NIV

God expanded Barnabas and Saul’s borders. They were called by the Holy Spirit, as He spoke to them through a word of prophecy. Then the elders prayed and placed their hands on them and sent them on their way. They also took John Mark with them as an assistant. Barnabas and Saul did not start their journey without prayer. All together, the believers prayed to make sure that God was the one leading these men into the mission field. The elders had bathed their mission journey in prayer. This was God’s work done God’s way!

This is how the biblical foundation for missions is laid. There is no confusion. Either a person will receive their call through the Word of God, or sometimes, through a word of prophecy, or both. God through His Spirit is faithful to reveal to a person called to missions what needs to be done.

I received a word of prophecy as I began ministry. The elders from Calvary Chapel Costa Mesa laid their hands on me prayed and spoke a word of prophecy, revealing that God would bless Calvary Chapel in the future. Most of the prophecies spoken in the past have come to pass. It is incredible when the gift of prophecy is used. This is a gift that builds up and edifies. The Lord also spoke to me through the Word of God. He gave me Isaiah 42:5-8.

In laying the foundation for missions, it is important to understand that we cannot become possessive of the work He is accomplishing though us. I have heard pastors say, “This is my ministry; this is my church.” No, no, no! It is His ministry, His Church, His anointing, His calling, and His salvation message preached! It is all of God and none of us.

I used to ask God to help me. Then I asked if I might help Him. I ended up by asking Him to do His work through me."
~J. Hudson Taylor~

For more from Raul Ries, please visit SomebodyLovesYou.com!