As April comes to a close, I am incredibly thankful for the opportunities that the Lord has given to minister in a practical way to the people of Barrouallie and surrounding villages since the eruption on April 9.
There is still a definite need for immediate help through relief packages, and bottled water 1. But slowly but surely, it is time to transition into a deeper ministry.
by this I don’t mean providing food isn’t important (it obviously is). But there Is a deeper need than just physical relief.
that is a need for discipleship.
By using the phrase “discipleship” I am referring to evangelism (bringing them to Christ), teaching of Scripture, and sending them out to do the work themselves. I referenced this idea in a post last week you can find here.
Its incredibly important to understand that a persons greatest need is for discipleship. Someone who will listen to their needs, explain the Gospel, and lead them to Salvation.
But its even more important to understand people crave this kind of relationship in their hearts.
The Lord has opened the door for me to have lots of conversations about the Gospel, and what the Bible teaches during this time of crisis.
Along the way I’ve realised what people want far more than a bag of food, or a case of water
A listening ear…..
Attentive eyes….
And Gods truth
Again this doesn’t mean the food isn’t important. It means long after that food is gone, a true friend who will give Godly counsel is far more important.
So we keep giving out relief to those in need. But understand taking the time to sit down, understand their need, and minister to it with an open Bible is more important in the long run.
- You can’t currently drink the water ↩
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