Read: 1 Corinthians 9:1-14
Memory Verse: 1 Corinthians 9:14
Even so hath the Lord ordained that they which preach the gospel should live of the gospel.
Realistically not every believer is able to cross cultural or geographical boundaries to bring good news. But every true believer can be involved in the process of sending those who can go. In Romans 10 we find two complementary roles: those who go; and those who send. Both roles are necessary to advance God’s purpose to be known, worshiped, and obeyed by all nations.
We can think of these two complementary roles in terms of soldiers involved in a war. There are those on the front line and those who support the soldiers at the front. During World War II, about 15 people supported just one soldier on the front line. Today 50 people support a front-line soldier. So the role of the missionary sender is vital. Those who “send” do so by offering encouragement, faithfully praying, and providing financial support and other needed resources. Without these, those on the front line would not be able to serve.
- Moral support. Those who cross cultural and geographical barriers for the cause of Christ need encouragement. Gracious words, a card, a gift, a visit, and a warm embrace all strengthen the heart. “Wherefore comfort yourselves together, and edify one another, even as also ye do.” (1 Thes. 5:11).
- Logistic support. Sometimes those who go need help on the home front. This might involve helping with financial matters, looking after family, or sending care packages—especially those items that cannot be obtained overseas.
- Financial support. By faith, missionaries look to God to provide for their personal and ministry needs. We can be used by God to provide through our faithful giving.
- Prayer support. The greatest thing you can do for those who go is to faithfully pray for them. “God…giveth the increase” (1 Cor. 3:7). So fruitfulness depends on answered prayer (Jn. 15:16). In answer to prayer doors are opened (Col. 4:3), workers are sent (Mt. 9:38), the Gospel spreads (2 Thes. 3:1) “The effectual fervent prayer of a righteous man availeth much.” (James 5:16).
- Communication support. Keep in touch with your missionaries. Read their prayer letters (Eph. 6:21-22) and share your news with them too. “As cold waters to a thirsty soul, so is good news from a far country.” (Prov. 25:25).
Meditation for the Day: What can you do today for a missionary? What more can you do to support and encourage them on a regular basis?
Assignment: Write to one missionary this week. Find out as much as you can about them and their mission field first.
For Fun: Put together a box of treats for a missionary and send it to them. Ask them to video when they open it. Do careful research on what to send them.