Show the Gospel

Let no corrupt word proceed out of your mouth, but what is good for necessary edification, that it may impart grace to the hearers. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God, by whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, clamor, and evil speaking be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tenderhearted, forgiving one another, even as God in Christ forgave you. (Ephesians 4:29-32)

Being on the mission field is a challenge. There are the typical challenges of culture, language, weather, and the like, but people alone are he biggest challenge. Whether short or long term missions, people and personalities can present problems! It is how we react to the various challenges that either brings honor or shame to the Lord however. Our example is Christ Himself. No matter what He went through, He showed mercy, kindness, concern, and grace. He did not place His desires over the needs of others. His "desire" was that all would come to know Him (2 Peter 3:9). How we treat others, how we react to others, the patience and grace we show . . . this alone can bring others to question "why?". I have been told several times that we have to share the Gospel . . . and if necessary use words! Our actions do count. Love is a VERB!