People seem to always think that a missionary has an exodic life. In reality, life is a lot like everyone else, except the fact that they have a lot of stressors that most people will never have. They do not have revolutionary excitement every day. It is a lot time invested before you may see a big event. The missionaries that move abroad have to learn a new culture, language, and all the little ways of living that are so foreign. It takes time and grace.
Paul spent his entire Christian life as a missionary and he made it realistic. He did not hold back on the struggles, but he is the one that set the guidelines for what it takes to be a leader in Christianity. He knew when to listen and when to speak up.
When the local leaders asked him to speak, he would give the history of Christianity to where they were 40-60 years after Jesus' resurrection. He would encourage the people to step out in faith by preaching repentance and baptism. He was persuasive because he passionately used scripture to back up his arguments.
When we speak the truth and become transparent, then we can have impact on people's lives. Get over the fear of rejection. You will face rejection, no matter how much you try to avoid it. If you are going to be rejected, then it should be for something that matters. Be true to God's Word no matter what people say or do. That way when you die, you know that you can face God without regret, embarrassment, or shame. (Acts 13:13-52)
48 "When the Gentiles heard this, they rejoiced and honored the word of the Lord, and all who had been appointed to eternal life believed. 49 The word of the Lord spread through the whole region. 50 But the Jews incited the prominent God-fearing women and the leading men of the city. They stirred up persecution against Paul and Barnabas and expelled them from their district. 51 But Paul and Barnabas shook the dust off their feet against them and went to Iconium. 52 And the disciples were filled with joy and the Holy Spirit." Acts 13: 48-20 (CSB)
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