During this unique time in world history, now more than ever, we must practice loving self-care and remember that God not only loves us but also cares for us on a personal level. It’s so easy to think about all the things we need–especially when preparing for a mission trip. God already knows our needs, though, so we don’t have to worry or be anxious at all.
We want to share with you five scriptures to meditate upon as we navigate this new season and way of living. As you read each one, consider how it may apply to your specific circumstances. Also, reflect upon the needs met through the hands, feet, and hearts of courageous medical mission trip volunteers.
PHILIPPIANS 4:6: Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.
- God hears your prayers. You are not alone right now or when you go on your upcoming mission trip.
- Someone far away may also be praying earnestly–thanking God in advance–for precisely what you are called to give or how you plan to serve.
- A part of loving self-care is to continually pray.
PSALM 16:8: I have set the Lord always before me; because he is at my right hand, I shall not be shaken.
- You can trust God with everything and through all things.
- When we always put God first, He is the first to come to mind during a critical moment of decision or action.
NAHUM 1:7: The Lord is good, a stronghold in the day of trouble; he knows those who take refuge in him.
- A good, good heavenly Father loves us deeply. We can humbly submit to God knowing He not only takes care of us and is concerned with what is on our hearts and minds, what weighs down or lights up our spirit, but also that He does so in love.
- Seasons may change, but God is always the same. Confidence can be our response because of Who is responding to us now and forever.
MATTHEW 10:30-31: But even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows.
- When many states and businesses are closed or providing limited services, we all must stand 6 feet apart or more, wear face masks, and exercise sensible medical precautions, it may sometimes feel as though things are difficult or hindering our work. But as medical missions volunteers, we may often have encountered these things before to a degree in other nations where we have served. Another level of care and skill is involved in our important work. No task is too small for God to cover it and all things involved with it.
ISAIAH 41:10: Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.
- We have God’s promise of strength when we are weary. He will help and sustain us in every situation we face. We can move forward in expectation, knowing that our work is blessed and protected.
Wherever we go, whatever we face, we go with God’s great love and care. We may need to adapt in every season and practice good self-care too, but God is with us. He’s on our side, and we can smile as we stand firm in unwavering faith and belief–now and in the future.
If you’ve been thinking about joining a medical missions team, check out information on our upcoming November medical mission trip to Benin.
