“How much should I give?” Elsie asked me as she looked at my picture book. I knew she was living on social security checks, and I doubted she could afford more than $25 per month.

“Monthly pledges are what help us the most,” I said. “The amount should be something you can maintain over time. But I prefer to leave the amount up to you and God.” I prayed silently that Elsie would listen to the Holy Spirit’s voice as she continued to browse through the pictures.

Finally, she looked up. “What about $80 per month?”

I gulped. “That would be a good number . . .”

She continued looking at the pages in my picture book. Finally she said, “No. $100. Can I give the first check directly to you?”

I waited while she got her checkbook and wrote a check payable to Adventist Frontier Missions for $100. Then I helped her fill out a pledge card. But something still seemed to be bothering her. “What about Joelle Thea?” she asked, “I have been supporting her for years, and I can do no less for her than for you.”

“Joelle needs pledges too, and I would be happy to mail hers in for you,” I answered.

A few minutes later, I held two pledge forms and two checks for $100 each.

After Elsie left, I bowed to God in prayer, asking forgiveness for misjudging her and thanking Him for giving her such a generous heart. I asked God to pour out His blessings upon her and care for all of her earthly needs because of her trust in Him and dedication to missions.

Is the Holy Spirit calling you to pledge to support missions sacrificially? I pray that you will be obedient to His voice.

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