It is Wise to Wait

Proverbs 20:18a says, "Every purpose is established by counsel." One commentary says, "Even the most prudent of men needs friends' counsels; and none but the most conceited would deem himself superior to advice."

We were given advice to wait for me to finish school before we go to Africa, and we ended up taking their words of advice. It was not an easy decision because much was at stake. We were planning on buying land and being out there full-time by November of 2025, and putting the brakes on this meant putting a halt to many things. It made our $1,000+ dollars in vaccines go right down the toilet. It cost us an incomplete refund on tickets. It made much work in preparing for this trip, for us and the people in Kenya, be a bit of a waste of time. It damaged trust of those in the congregation in Kenya that were looking forward to us coming. It did not feel good to cause this.

Despite the consequences, we were open with all parties before we made the final decision. Thankfully all parties understood and were in full support. We understood that we would not be able to fully commit to those in Kenya, and it would also restrict my ability to get the most out of my studies. This way I will be better prepared and can then give myself fully to the mission out there of making disciples of all nations.

Sometimes the best things for us are the hardest decisions to make. The reason that changes are hard for us is because we are in it and understand the consequences of the change in plans. When someone says you need to wait, we could easily say, "Too late now. Just have to deal with the consequences at this point." And sometimes that is the case, though not always.

We are trusting the Lord's timing in this as we move forward. There was a weight that lifted from my shoulders when the decision was finalized, and I didn't realize the burden that was upon me. I was the frog in the kettle that was slowly heating up. The only reason I even considered this was because a fellow student I met was doing this very thing in Thailand: going to school and planting a church. I knew it could be done, but it isn't wise for me. I should follow in the footsteps as one of my role-models, Paul Washer, and go to the mission field after college. This will give me the ability to focus on learning the language to be more effective in shepherding the people there.

We thank you for all the prayers and support! We still have our hearts set on going there and pray the Lord wills it for us in a couple years.