Moving Forward

Introduction: Have you ever got bogged down talking with someone, and you couldn’t get anywhere in the conversation? Suggestion: One of you needs to speak up and say “MOVING FORWARD!” Speaking of MOVING FORWARD, the great missionary to Africa, David Livingston, once said, “I will go anywhere provided it is FORWARD!” There’s not any wonder why God used him in a mighty way. In fact, although he faced hardships on every hand—including being attacked by lions who shredded his arm—besides that, he battled the diseases of the rainforest constantly, but he PRESSED ON! When he finally died, he requested that his heart be buried in Africa because that was where his heart belonged.

By the way, he answered the CALL of God by hearing this verse read: “And other sheep I have, which are not of this fold: them also I must bring, and they shall hear my voice; and there shall be one fold, and one shepherd.” (John 10:16)
 
Here are a few others who answered the CALL to GO!
 

1. David Brainerd was a missionary to the North American Indians. He too went through suffering and persecution. As he prayed in the snow for the conversion of those who were destined to hell, he sweated profusely—melting the snow.

2. Bertha Smith was a tremendous soul-winner in China. Years ago, I read a book about her life and powerful witness. Perhaps, according to some, she was one of the greatest women missionaries that ever lived. Our Lord used her in a mighty way here in America by helping spread fires of REVIVAL throughout churches.

3. Jim Elliot was a martyr to the Auca Indians. He literally gave his life for the Gospel’s sake. His words echo down through the years. Listen: “No man is a FOOL to give up what he cannot keep to GAIN that which he cannot LOSE!”

Conclusion: Either it was Livingston or Brainerd who, while praying, had a poisonous snake crawl by him—but it did not bite him. From that point on, many believed in his God. What a powerful testimony of the PROVIDENCE of a living God!

So now, after looking into the lives of some men and women who were used mightily by Jesus Christ, are you determined to MOVE FORWARD?

 
Love y’all,
Dr. Randy Reese