(Written by David Sandy)
“I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” Philippians 4:12b-13 (NIV)
What is the hardest part about going on missions overseas? For some people, it’s finding the courage to speak about Christ, for others it’s the logistics of the trip, or maybe it’s overcoming language barriers. I’ve asked myself this question frequently as we are preparing as a team, and one challenge stands out above the rest:
Food.
There’s no two ways about it, I am a picky eater. My family jokes that the only foods that I enjoy eating are either salty, greasy, crunchy, or beef, and they’re not far wrong.
I’ve had the opportunity recently of being able to try some Czech food at one of our team meetings, and felt tremendously proud of myself afterwards, not because I was able to enjoy the food, but because I was able to trust in Christ to broaden my horizons.
While this challenge may seem either difficult or ridiculous (depending on how picky about your food you are), it is very real for me. As I continue to work on this area, I like to think of it as an opportunity for me to become more reliant on Jesus.
I love how Paul wrote in Philippians chapter 4 about how Jesus gives us power to be content in any circumstance, regardless of whether he’s in need or plenty, well fed or hungry. More than anything else, I want the people I interact with in the Czech Republic to see me as a joyous follower of Christ rather than a picky eater. I am trusting that Jesus will continue to give me strength to be content whether I’m eating hamburgers and fries, or goulash and dumplings.
What challenge is God asking you to overcome for His glory?