Have you ever entertained the idea of becoming a missionary? Many Christians have considered the possibility at some point, but then quickly brushed the thought away. Far too often it’s because of a feeling of inadequacy. Maybe you’ve asked the question, quietly in your thoughts or to a trusted advisor (Google, anyone?), am I good enough to become a missionary?
Let us answer that question for everyone, right here and now: No. Of course not. We are all broken, sinful, and inadequate, but so was Moses and Joseph and David and Esther and Jonah and Peter and…well, all of our biblical heroes.
The effectiveness of your mission and the legitimacy of your calling have little to do with your own ability or goodness.
Here’s the question we should ask instead: Is God powerful enough to help me serve as a missionary? Yes, of course, He is! When we choose to serve the God of the universe, we are surrendering the outcome to Him and trusting in His plan.
Choosing to serve God is the most liberating decision we can ever make.
But, Do I Have the Right Personality? The Right Skills?
Any job has requirements, right? Different people are suited for different tasks and certain skills are required. A lot of people apply that concept to becoming a missionary too. It would be true if there was only one way to share the Gospel, but after training and sending hundreds of missionaries to the field, we’ve found that everyone approaches their calling using their distinct gifts.
And God uses their obedience according to His plan.
Jesus wasn’t broken or sinful, but he also wasn’t what people were expecting. At first glance, people probably would have called him inadequate. The average-looking-homeless-carpenter riding on a donkey wasn’t exactly the picture people had painted in their minds regarding the Messiah. But Jesus was perfectly obedient to the Father.
And God used His obedience according to His plan.
Don’t I Need to Know Anything to Become a Missionary?
Of course, there’s a lot you need to know. That’s why missions sending agencies, like Team Expansion, exist. We give you the training, planning, and guidance you need. We’ll pray with you, we’ll journey with you and, we’ll help you find the right field based on your personality and skills. You’ll have a team every step of the way.
Becoming a missionary isn’t going to look the same for each person. It may not be how God is calling you to serve the Kingdom and fulfill the Great Commission. We’d love to help you prayerfully work through the decision. Are you ready to find your mission?
It isn’t easy to become a missionary. You’ll never feel “qualified.” But if you are faithfully responding to God’s call, it’s the most liberating decision you will ever make.
