During February we’re focusing on seeking guidance. Please click the Prayer tab above to read our strategic prayer request for this month.

by Lindy Pate

Pray that God will show us how to inspire and equip….

Pray that God will show us…

Some of the coolest moments or opportunities in the last few years have come from God showing me how to do something. I pray about something that aligns with God’s heart and wait for him to show me what to do (if anything).

Case Study 1: When I lived in the village of Angguna, I went to a fortnightly market in a neighboring village. People from 3 language groups converged to buy, sell, and socialize. What an opportunity! I started going just to observe the culture. Then I started bringing some things to sell: nails, Tylenol, Band-Aids. I noticed that many people did not have change and that was hindering exchange. So, I started bringing the coins to the market as a service.

I enjoyed these opportunities to meet tangible needs. I enjoyed participating in the community. But it seemed like the opportunity was greater than that. How could I use this natural gathering to further the kingdom?

So I got the ‘crazy idea’ to print literacy materials and sell those as well as scripture portions in the three languages. I wouldn’t say that it was a huge success. I didn’t sell all my inventory, but I did have some conversations with Apal, Nend and Mum speakers about their language.

Though this was easy, I don’t think I would have come up with the idea on my own. I believe God showed me how to add a small component to what I was already doing.

Case Study 2: During my Home Assignment in the US, I have found art journaling to facilitate interaction with Scripture in a profound way. God has used this to bring healing and joy. I wanted others to have the opportunity to enjoy that gift at well. The idea of getting people to buy in, finding a time and place, planning, etc. seemed daunting. So, I prayed that God would show me how.

One evening, I was sitting with my friend and Bible Study leader in Dallas. I shared my idea of having an evening where women could come try out art journaling, and she asked me if I would be willing to do that on a weekly basis. What?!

Next thing I know, I’m leading a 12 week Bible Study that incorporated art journaling. Wow!
Praying for God to show me how to is a lot easier that making my own way.

I’m so thankful to be part of an organization that views prayer as a key strategy. And to work for a God that wants us to have meetings with him. Pray that we would pray with open eyes and ears. Pray that we would move when God shows us how to.

Lindy is trained as a Bible translator.