His plans are better than our own

January 6th, 2012 at 11:39 am

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Go Now Missions mobilizes students from Texas Baptist churches and Baptist Student Ministry (BSM). They are a ministry of the Baptist General Convention of Texas. According to the mission statement, “The Baptist General Convention of Texas encourages, facilitates and connects churches in their work to fulfill God’s mission of reconciling the world to himself.” The following post is a reflection from a student missionary sent through Go Now Missions. To search for similar mission opportunities to get involved in go to texasbaptists.org/beonmission.

I had no idea when I volunteered to lead a group of students to Mission Arlington that God had big plans for me as well. I am about the same age as most of the students I lead, so being an education major I thought, no problem I’ve got this under control and wrapped up. Little did I know that God was going to change my life and the way I work with students both in my career and in the future. There are many stories about my team and the work God used us to do. These are just some things that really stuck out to me.

As soon as we got to Mission Arlington, we were assigned to greet and talk to families which were gathering outside of the missions Christmas Store. Some of the families we talked to had been waiting in line since midnight. I couldn’t imagine waiting for that long just to satisfy a child’s needs on Christmas. I also soon learned about the humility and embarrassment that most of the families felt because they had to wait outside in the cold for assistance with Christmas needs. It was a humbling moment when I was able to help a mom of six find gifts for her family. She lost her job in August because her oldest son had spinal surgery. I was able to just listen to her and help her find gifts for each child.  When we were gathering her gifts she turned to me and said “I’m really grateful for the gifts but the only thing I really want for my kids are new bibles to take to church.” I thought wow! That is an awesome mom!

Through all of this, I was also watching and observing my team at work. I witnessed sweet prayers over families in need, hard work in the clothing store, food pantry, and even data entry. I was impressed that each team member did what they were told to the best of their ability without complaining. They literally were the hands and feet of God! I felt very privileged to be working with such a great group of students. I also began to feel very inadequate to be a team leader of this great group. As I continued to work with the group and watch them step out in faith, surrendering to the Fathers calling, I began to feel even smaller. God showed me that His plans are better than our own. He also showed me that when I am inadequate in leading, teaching, and ministering, He is adequate in me. I have nothing to fear because the very God who came to this earth lives in me and through Him I am enough.

Lacee Stone