What if I’m Unable to Raise Enough Mission Trip Support?

Mr. Halseth, I have a question. What if I am unable to raise enough money for the trip?… I really want to go on a mission trip! I feel like I need to go. I need to share my stories and give to others.

Thanks,
Madeline

‍

Madeline,

That’s a good question and one that often gets asked. You are not alone. Raising support is often a reason that many students don’t follow Gods call into missions. It sounds like you have a call by God, but pray for the faith to trust and believe that He will provide.

Before I answer your question directly though, I first want to encourage you. In the years I have been involved in short-term missions (10 years) I have never seen a student unable to raise their funds IF they truly believe they are called by God to go. In other words, if you trust that God is calling you to go on a mission trip AND you are willing to do the hard work of raising your support, then I believe God will provide for your needs.

The students I have seen struggle with finances are those who doubt their calling and don’t put forth the effort and just “wait and see” if God brings in the money. It does not matter if you come from a family who has money or not. God owns everything and He certainly is able to do his part and provide if you are willing to do your part. As a help, we have all the tools necessary for your support development.

If you put forth all your effort, and in the unlikely event are unable to raise your funds, we can hold the funds you raised for one year only. In the following year you can apply that support, less penalties/costs, toward any of our mission trips. If you are not planning to come on a mission trip in the following year, your support will be designated towards our scholarship fund for other students in need.

I hope this answers your question and you are encouraged. Whenever I am doing something big for God, I always remember a great quote from George Mueller–a man who believed in God’s provision and cared for over 10,000 orphans in his lifetime. He said, “Work with all your might but trust not the least in your work.” Or another way of saying it is, “work with all your strength, (like it is all up to you), but don’t trust in your work, (because it’s all up to God!)”

I can honestly say that this statement has held true for me because I have seen God do just that and provide for me over the 10 years I have been in full-time ministry. God is faithful to his promises!

“And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” –Philippians 4:19

Let me know if you have more questions.

Matt