You might be asking, "Is missions for me? If so, how do I go?" Finding your place in missions can be complex. Knowing where you are is important in getting where you're going. Below you will find a map to missions, a simple walkthrough of what each step looks like, and practical steps on where to go from there.
Step 1: Open - "How can God use me in everyday life?"
Are you open to missions? You might be open to missions if you are following Jesus, invested in your church, and open for God to use you. You may have the desire to make the most of your life, being faithful where he's placed you. Missions may not be on your mind but you're wondering, "How can God use me in everyday life?" If you connect with these thoughts, you might try taking these next steps:
Seek mentorship from faithful Christians.
Pray for an unreached people group weekly.
Read a missionary biography.
Connect with immigrants in your own community.
Step 2: Listening - "Is God leading me into global missions?"
Are you listening? You might be someone who is in the listening phase if you’re seeking discernment for how God can use your gifts, experiences, and whole life in his work. Maybe you desire to serve and know there’s a great need for the gospel worldwide. You’re open to missions, but uncertain about God’s leading. You want to learn more to help gain clarity! If this is you, here are some practical steps you can take:
Listen to a missions podcast.
Ask a missionary how God led them into missions.
Serve locally to grow and learn about your gifts.
Subscribe to Explore News here.
Step 3: Exploring - "God has called me...but where is a good fit?"
Are you exploring missions? You may be exploring missions if you’ve spent time praying and seeking counsel about your role in missions. The Holy Spirit is prompting you to go, but you have a lot of questions! It’s both exciting and overwhelming. With so many opportunities, how do you know which one to pursue? You’re looking for resources to help you discern and our missions coaches are here to help. Here are some next steps if this is you:
Ask five friends to pray with you for a month.
Talk with your church about what you’re exploring.
Connect with a SEND missions coach here.
Research missions agencies.
Step 4: Pursuing - "I've found my fit. What else do I need to do?"
Have you found where you fit in missions? If you are at this point on the Map to Missions, that means you’re ready to meet your potential team, evaluate chemistry and compatibility, and apply to serve! You can envision yourself as a part of this community, pursuing gospel impact together. You’re ready to prepare and take any other steps needed to go! Here are some possible next steps for you to take:
Get affirmation from your church for your missions call.
Apply and interview with SEND or your prospective missions agency.
Get to know your potential team.
Establish healthy spiritual disciplines and daily rhythms.
Step 5: Preparing - "I'm ready to go. How can I prepare to thrive overseas?"
How do you prepare to thrive on the mission field? You may be preparing to go if your new destination is within view! You are ready to prepare spiritually, emotionally, mentally, and physically. You’re building a team of supporters to come alongside you and are ready to be equipped. What proactive steps can you take now to help you thrive when you get there? Here are some next steps:
Learn about pre-field preparation and training.
Build a team of ministry partners.
Study the culture you’re entering and learn some greetings.
Gain cross-cultural experience before you leave.
No matter where you are on your journey, we are here to help you explore your role in missions!
