Risk, uncertainty, insecurity, and danger can evoke significant concern. “What will happen to the believers? What will happen to the ministry? What will happen to us?!”

After over 7,000 words detailing the marvelous mercies of God in Christ for His church, Paul begins chapter 12 of Romans. Paul now instructs us on how we should think, feel, and act in light of the mercies of God in Christ.

In verse 12, he writes: 

“Rejoice in hope, be patient in tribulation, be constant in prayer.” (ESV)

These short imperative statements are not suggestions. They are survival graces required for perseverance and critical to displaying the excellencies of God.

I've just returned from Bangkok, Thailand, where I had the incredible privilege to gather with missionaries, pastors and families from over twenty countries for the annual Healthy Churches Asia conference. 

The highlights included having the chance to connect in person with 10 different people Frontlines has had the privilege to counsel in recent years.

One father said, "Your ministry has been such a blessing to our family. We are deeply thankful for the changes we've seen in our daughter."  Another person said with tears that….

“We know from personal experience, we’ve seen missionaries go on the field and burn out quickly, and a lot of times its simply because they are not getting the care that they need for the things that they experience. But with a ministry like Frontlines, they can receive that type of care, and hopefully, Lord-willing, stay on the field for the long term for the glory of God.” 

…In the midst of so much loss and difficulty, Morgan’s chief need has been encouragement to suffer faithfully for the sake of the gospel. The dangers are very real and present, but it has been a great encouragement to see Morgan and her husband persevering and trusting the Lord in faith as they have received care and help to do this from their sending church and through Frontlines.