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Are you looking into Christian mission trips? This post breaks down the factors to consider and ultimately why you should go on a mission trip.
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As Christians, the natural desire we carry in our spirit is to serve and share the gospel with unsaved people. A common way to carry out these desires and commands out (Matthew 28:18-20, 1 Peter 4:10-11) is through mission trips. Mission trips are just one of the many ways you can serve and share the gospel in your daily life. However, mission trips have unique factors and benefits to consider when serving. If you are considering mission trips or researching to see if it’s the right fit, check out this breakdown on mission trips. We answer these crucial questions when serving:
Your Questions Answered: |
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Should you go on a mission trip? |
What are important factors in finding the best mission organization? |
What are the long-lasting benefits of going on a mission trip? |
What are all the things to consider before going on a mission trip? |
Should you go on a Mission Trip?
Before even considering a mission trip, it’s important to reflect on these things. These factors can easily rule it out or further confirm your calling to mission trips.
1. Consult God First
Mission trips are no small thing. A lot of time and resources go into the preparation of a trip. To save yourself potential lost in any of these areas it’s important to consult God. We are commanded to pray about everything (yes, this also refers to huge decisions like going on a mission trip) (Thessalonians 5:16-18). A great motto to follow from Elizabeth George, A Woman After God’s Own Heart simplifies this process.
Make no decision without Prayer
Elizabeth George, A Woman After God's Own Heart Pg. 49
@FaBarboza
In addition, utilize God’s word by studying it daily, thinking about the decision, and consulting elders in your church.
2. Check Your Heart Posture
Why do you want to go on this trip?
What is my motive?
Are you afraid to share the gospel?
Are you knowledgeable enough to share the gospel?
Are you living the life you should as a Christian?
These are questions to ask yourself to check your intentions. If you are wanting to go on a mission trip for validation, to glorify yourself, or for any selfish reason, it’s best to reconsider going on a trip. Use scripture to pray for God to reveal the motives you have and examine your heart (Psalms 139: 23-24).
3. Do you have the money?
It’s important to review your monetary resources. Typically mission trips are self-funded meaning you have to raise the money yourself. Now, there are plenty of ways to save, raise money, and receive funding from your church and loved ones. However, if you are not willing to do this it’s a bigger indicator that it’s not the time to serve in missions.
4. Can you invest the time?
Something a lot of people forget to consider is the application process. The mission trip application process takes A LOT of time. You will be researching biblical organizations available to you, filling out long applications, going through several interviews, gathering reference letters, and if you are accepted you will train (before and during the trip). If this sounds like too much you definitely should reconsider going on a mission trip.
The Final Decision: Should you go?
@MariyaOliynyk
After consistent prayer, self-reflection, and the resources available to you hopefully, you’ve come to a final decision. If you have confirmed with your church and the people in your life Sometimes it is a part of God’s will for you to stay where you are or in some seasons travel.
Now, I understand if you can’t go it can feel a bit discouraging (coming from a person obsessed with serving abroad/traveling). However, it’s important to focus on where God has you now and to be content in that place. Whatever God has for your life it’s best. You never know, God may open up that door for your life in the future and it will be evident if he does. :)
How to Find the Best Organization to Partner With
Once you confirm that you are able and ready to go on a mission trip it’s time to find the best organization to help you get there. If the option is available you can go through your local church. However, if you are part of a smaller church you have to go through a Christian organization or church with the proper resources.
To find the best organization the number one thing to consider is the beliefs of the organization. Make sure you go through a legit, reliable, and biblical Christian organization. For instance, I would not partner with a Catholic or Mormon organization when those are false religions that don’t share the true gospel. Going a bit further, I wouldn’t partner with Christian organizations that fellowship with false teachers or severally biblically flawed organizations like Hillsong, Elevation, Passion, etc. Research deeply! You can easily review the beliefs on the website, partners they operate with, and even call and speak with a representative.
In addition, consider the cost. Some organizations offer grants, scholarships, or funding assistance. For instance, I went through BCM a more affordable option for college students. The prices were so much more affordable from $100 and up! Also, make sure the organization you partner with provides your housing, food, and more. Some places may seem affordable on the surface but have a high cost due to you having to pay for so many expenses.
Lastly, location is an aspect to consider. Location not only affects the cost drastically, but also the time you will be there. Consider these things to ensure your needs fully align with the organization!
Christian Mission Trips: 10 Reasons to Go on a Mission Trip
Now, that we covered all the things to consider before going let’s brag about all the amazing benefits God has in store! Mission trips are incredible and offer so much room to serve, grow, and learn. These are the main highlights we’ve shared from personal experience.
1. You Get To Meet New People & Make Friends
New community, new friends for life! Being in a new environment allows you to make friends and long-lasting connections. Many missionaries or people on short-term missions have made friends in their efforts to share the gospel! In addition, to meeting other Christians. Personally, my short-term trip had a small group of people that became so close that we shared a group chat and met with one another even after the trip!
2. Makes Sharing the Gospel Easier (Practice Makes Perfect)
Every day you are constantly sharing the gospel. It is one of the main goals on your mind throughout the trip. Due to sharing it so much it naturally becomes less intimidating and more natural. The training you receive, intense studying, and witnessing others share the gospel all contribute to this.
3. Serving may Reveal to you your Passions, Purpose, or Career
Many people I’ve met (myself included) have discovered our true passions, career paths, or even the place we decide to build a life through going on a mission trip. Some people fall in love with the community and the people. This passion leads them to serve long-term a.k.a live there. Some people find their passion to be a full-time missionary or new career opportunities that involve missions. These are some examples of how serving in such a way impacts you!
@eliannagill
4. You are Given so many tools to Learn
Typically when going on a mission trip you are given mandatory training resources, tools, and sessions before and during the trip. This allows you to not only share the gospel easily but also provides you with the tools needed to further grow spiritually! You are given tools you will use for life when studying scripture, sharing the gospel, and serving. I still use the tools I learned in mission training, one is the three-circle gospel presentation which is at the end of every blog post for you.
5. Networking Opportunities with Missions, People, & Churches
Along with making new friends, you gain valuable connections with ministries. Through these connections often you find more opportunities to further serve and gain ministry support. For instance, I was able to connect with a group that allowed business majors to find jobs while doing ministry work.
6. You Gain Boldness for Christ
As you are constantly worshipping, sharing the gospel, and studying. The more you consume God’s word the more our eyes focus upon Him. You start to become bolder in your faith and less bothered by the persecution that comes your way.
7. Encouragement & Community Through other Believers
As someone who is rarely around other Christians (a small amount of family and friends that are Christians), it’s such a blessing to be around other believers. It not only provides a support system but also provides encouragement and strength when serving.
@Roisesun
8. Broadens Your Worldview
When you are out of your comfort zone, in a new environment it truly broadens your worldview. Especially when you are serving internationally or in small communities. The needs of others and ways of life become apparent.
9. Meet the Needs of Others
Serving is the physical aspect of meeting the needs of others. You will have daily opportunities to serve those both in ministry and the community.
10. Grows You Spiritually
Ultimately, all of these things lead to the development and growth of your spiritual knowledge. The training, serving, constant studying, worship, and prayer for hours a day is an opportunity to further grow in your knowledge of God’s word.
Pack Your Bags!
You have all the tips, guidelines, and benefits to fuel your motivation and excitement to serve! These elements should provide you with a foundational understanding of the purpose of mission trips, if you should go, and why they can be so essential. You have insights from personal experiences and biblical tips to make those steps to serve.
And Before you go...
@NoPlaceLeftTraining
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