What I Learned As A First Term Missionary in Colombia

By Beth (Trout) Williams

Although I am a first-term missionary, Colombia is not new to me. I lived in South America my parents, Bob and Lynne Trout, until I was 16. An MK who returns to the place of childhood has certain advantages but still has a lot to learn.

From COLOMBIAN CHRISTIANS

I learned humility and servanthood. Colombians are selfless people who give out of their poverty. They might not have enough food for themselves, but they will be sure you get the best they have.

I learned to allow others to do things their own way, although I like people to do things my way. From these accepting people I learned to allow others to make mistakes-and their way might even be better.

I learned I don't have to demand my rights. I might be first in line, but that doesn't mean I will be waited on first, and that's okay.

I learned I need to be careful about what I say. Colombian people do not want to hurt anyone. I always believed if the truth hurts, so what? Ephesians 4:29 demands that our words be edifying, uplifting.

From my HUSBAND

I learned to strive to have a superior marriage, not just an acceptable one. It's easy to get used to each other and accept the day to day. But what about doing what is best for the other person, and giving 100%?

I learned to be careful about how and what I say, and not to hold grudges.

I learned to be faithful to God, consistent and steadfast in my Christian life, no matter my moods, feelings, or circumstances. Did my dog just eat my curtains? That doesn't give me the right to "take it out" on my husband or daughter.

From my two-year-old DAUGHTER, Aubrey

I learned to trust God. I now know why Christ tells us to have childlike faith. When Uncle Matthew had a cold, Aubrey said, "Mommy, Jesus can make him better. Let's pray." When someone went to the doctor to figure out why they couldn't have a baby, she said, "Jesus can give them a baby." When all the leaves fell off the trees, she said, "God will just have to put them back on." To see her, on her own, consider God as the solution to problems is my greatest joy. Do we trust God like this?

From the LORD

God showed me I need to love my neighbors. The church where we work is 30 minutes from our house. The Lord convicted me that I am not only a missionary in my church, but also in my neighborhood. Sometimes it's harder to love unsaved neighbors than the people in our church.

God also convicted me about gossip. I think some of us in "full-time" ministry may rationalize that we need to know all the "dirt" in order to pray specifically, but God hates gossip, even when we are being "spiritual" about it.

God has been working in my prayer life. Do I really believe God answers prayer? Do I really believe I need to take time to pray? Yes! God has shown me that when we pray faithfully, we will see Him work.

God is good to teach us through people around us and through the Holy Spirit. God is good all the time. He is always faithful--are we?