How Do I Know If I Should Go Into Missions?

A few years ago, my husband and I found ourselves in Thailand at dinner with a young missionary. We asked him what he did in the country where he was serving. He answered, with a chuckle, “Oh no. I don’t do. I just BE.” 

As the conversation continued, it became clear that, while his intentions may have been good, his actual moves toward the field had been full of ambiguity and mysticism: dreams, visions, and old-fashioned, gut-level “knowing.” 

Practically, that amounted to: no team, no clear vision, and no real strategy. The goal was simply “to be” in a way that communicated the life, death, and resurrection of the Son of God on behalf of sinners.

I suppose there are worse ways we could spend our lives, and there are some historical examples of God using such ventures for his good purposes. But I’d argue it’s wiser to pursue a more reasoned and methodical approach—one that’s grounded in prayer, God’s Word, dependence on the Spirit, and investment in the local church. 

With that in mind, here are three things to consider before making a move in missions, either for the first time or as a seasoned veteran thinking about something new. 

CONSIDER THE PULL

Think about the internal and external factors drawing you toward a particular place or opportunity. Is this new task something you have long aspired to, or is the impulse relatively fresh? One challenging component of new ventures and positions is that you may not receive much validation in the beginning. It is important to move forward with confidence that this is a noble aspiration for which you are well-suited.

Here are a few key questions for considering the “pull” toward something new:

1. As you pray, discuss with others, and seek opportunity, are your aspirations and abilities becoming clearer?
2. Is the wisdom of this move being confirmed by the sound counsel of others around you?
3. Are there ways this move would feel validating or hopeful for you? Both internally and externally, what are you running toward if you make this move?

CONSIDER THE PUSH

The push includes the internal and external factors that draw someone out of their current context. The pull is what draws you, the push is what makes you open to leaving. This could be an increasing sense of restlessness or complacency in your current situation. It could be a growing burden for a particular group of people. It could be a significant life transition that has created openness to change. 

Any of these could be legitimate factors in considering a move when paired with an abiding posture of humility that leads you to be honest, seek direction in prayer, and consider wise counsel.

Here are a few questions to help you consider the “push” before making a move:

1. Why make this move now?
2. What will it look like to leave your current situation well? 
3. Is there anything from which you are trying to escape? Both internally and externally, are there things you’re running away from if you make this move?

CONSIDER THE PRACTICAL

Even the strongest push and pull must be held up against reality. Obviously, there are practical things like health, finances, and family dynamics to weigh. But there are also practical things to think about in terms of your ability to thrive over time.

Here are questions to help you consider your practical preparedness:

1. New seasons and situations are often challenging, especially in missions. What sin do you expect will come out of you when the proverbial heat is turned up in your life?
2. Are you growing in awareness of your own heart and in how God is working in you?
3. How are you preparing not just to go, but to stay? 

The push to make a move in missions must be more than escape, because it will likely make your life harder. The pull must not be overly romantic, because daily life is generally more gritty than grand. And the practical considerations of who you are and where you’re headed are what will help you remain when the rubber meets the road. 

So, consider these things. Discuss them with those who know you well, and seek to both BE and DO for God’s glory wherever you find yourself landing.