As I reflect on past mission experiences, I’m reminded of countless “God moments”—those times when all you can say is, “God did that.” Some of these moments are etched deep into my memory, while others come flooding back through a sight, a conversation, or something unexpected. Many of those stories, I’ve shared often.
When I think of those stories, I’m reminded of the words of the Psalmist:
“Oh give thanks to the Lord; call upon His name; make known His deeds among the peoples! Sing to Him, sing praises to Him; tell of all His wondrous works!”
(Psalm 105:1–2)
If we are to give thanks to the Lord, to make His deeds known, to sing and to tell of His wondrous works—then we must first experience those works.
To experience the wonderful things God is doing, we must be faithful to go where He leads. It is in the going that He shows us what we would otherwise never see. We must “Go therefore…” (Matt. 28:19)
Here are a few observations I’ve made about truly experiencing the unknown things God wants to show us:
• Step Forward in Faith, Not Knowing What Comes Next
I often think of the Israelites at the edge of the flooded Jordan River. Nothing happened—no miracle, no breakthrough—until they stepped forward. Only then did the waters part. And only then did they experience what they never thought possible.
Missions will take you to places you’ve never been, introduce you to people you’ve never met, and give you experiences you’ll never forget. And it will change you.
• Stay Alert and Watch What God Will Do
I’ve learned to pay attention—even to the small things. God is always at work, and sometimes His greatest work shows up when you least expect it.
I remember a trip to Arlington, Texas. It was late—around 11 p.m.—and we took our vans to fuel up for the next day. Then, out of the blue, people began approaching us. One after another. Some asked for prayer. One asked for a Bible—his very first. We had several Gospel conversations. A woman in distress found help and was reconnected with her sister. It continued until almost 3 a.m.
God orchestrated every bit of it. And we got to experience it.
• Sing Praises and Celebrate What God Has Done
When you experience what only God can do, it will change your perspective, teach you deeply, and open your eyes. You can’t help but rejoice. You can’t help but tell someone.
That’s the beauty of saying “yes” to God and stepping into the unknown—you witness His wonders firsthand.
There are many ways you can step into the unknown through mission opportunities available with the Kentucky Baptist Convention. From disaster relief, to church partnerships, to local initiatives and more—there’s a place for you to serve and to see what only God can do.
Learn more at www.kybaptist.org
Click the Sending on Mission tab to take your first step.
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