April 25

Today’s devotional is in response to a letter written by one of our readers this letter and the response from my wife Beth is below the devotional. Thank you, Darrel

Also any of you readers or pastors in the Philippines if you have any info to share with Angia, please write me here and I will forward it to her. Thanks again, DM

Did you ever feel like Noah? Called to something that seemed quite unreasonable at the time, but you knew deep in your heart it was from God.

Noah worked diligently for the better part of a hundred years building a boat. I’m sure he endured the laughter and ridicule of his friends, neighbours and even his own family.

When all was said and done, Noah was proven to be right and the laughter of the others turned to tears.

By faith Noah, when warned about things not yet seen, in holy fear built an ark to save his family. By his faith he condemned the world and became heir of the righteousness that comes by faith. Hebrews 11:7 NIV

Perhaps you don’t feel "qualified" to do what God is calling you to do. Perhaps others think it isn’t a wise idea. Maybe you are frightened of the ridicule you might face, or the consequences of failure.

Remember that God doesn’t always call the equipped, but HE always equips the called. In terms of laughter remember whom it is who is calling you. He’s not laughing.

Personally I would rather be pleasing to God in what I attempt, even if it fails, than to be considered a success by the world and loved by all men.

Am I now trying to win the approval of men, or of God? Or am I trying to please men? If I were still trying to please men, I would not be a servant of Christ. Galatians 1:10 NIV

If it is from God, hear and obey and He will bless what you do. Your faith and obedience will bless the heart of God.

Until next time may you step forward in obedience to His call for your life.

This may seem completely and totally off the wall and you might think I am crazy, but...how much money would be involved in taking a short-term missionary trip to the Philippines? Just curious....Angia, West Virginia, USA

No, I don’t think this is crazy...I think this is God putting the Philippines in your heart. Pray and think about it. Depending on what you want to do in the Philippines, I cant give you an exact amount on how much it will cost to go here. Maybe you could tell me what you want to do and how long you plan to stay so that perhaps I could make some arrangements/itinerary for you. Will it be ministry trip or you will also want to have some vacation time also. Just let me know.

Just a warning though - what you will see might challenge you and change your life forever!...