As Maggi, Dale Goodson and I paddled a canoe around Lake Chapin, I listened to Dale tell about what he was learning in Genesis—about the story of the promised Seed, and how Satan did everything possible to destroy that Seed and stop anyone proclaiming it.
A short time later, the three of us knelt on the shore, praying for God to protect us and help us with our ministry in Benin. As I prayed, I began to weep, pleading with God for forgiveness, strength and discernment. I wept as I have not wept in years, and Dale’s hand on my shoulder told me that he understood. I prayed for the baptism of the Holy Spirit. And in my agony, I felt assurance that I was heard.
Although we have lots to praise God for, our first term of service in Benin has been full of difficulties. I have spent much time depressed and discouraged, wondering why God has called such a broken, sinful person to be a missionary in Africa. I have been ready to give up so often, and if God had not made His call abundantly clear, we would probably not be returning to Africa.
As I shared my struggles and pain with Dale, he helped me see the reason I have been walking in such darkness. The devil is not pleased with us. Our presence in Benin is a threat to him, so he wants to overcome me with discouragement. The difficulties we face are not evidence we should leave, but proof that we should stay.
Will you join us in praying for our ministry, that the Lord will continue to equip and prepare us for another three years in Benin, and that He will pour His Holy Spirit upon us in new measure?

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