“Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.” (Philippians 3:13-14)
Paul’s testimony in Philippians is so helpful. Despite the relentless adversity, he kept his focus.
We’ve all received the directing focus of the Great Commission. Regardless of circumstances, we know what God wants us to do. Thank you for your personal involvement in and through your church and for “holding the ropes” as we serve pastors, missionaries, and believers as your representatives. Hey, we’re on the winning side!
High points of these two months:
Keeping the focus on reaching souls, we’ve seen God open doors and cold hearts, with eight trusting in Christ as their Saviour while visiting from door to door. There’s no joy quite like witnessing and participating in a divinely arranged appointment so a lost soul can be saved.
July brought the ministry high point of the year, Missions University, when FBMI invites deputation and furlough missionaries to join us for four days of fellowship, fun, and fruitful instruction. This year, our focus was on the stewardship aspects of the ministry, financial and otherwise. It was a blessing to teach several times on the stewardship of our spirit, our health, and our resources. We’re also very thankful for what FBMI and First Baptist Church did to thank us for our 25th anniversary serving with them.
In August, God provided opportunities to help two churches focus on world missions. Both were extraordinary; the first was a Missions-Emphasis Sunday with a dear pastor-friend from years ago, and the second was an exemplary annual Missions Conference where the pastor, his staff, and the members were “all in.” Lana was also invited, and we shared together God’s blessings on a focused, obedient church.
Then, with many COVID questions coming my way, our wise Lord used bronchitis to slow us down and to focus my attention on the effects of the pandemic on God’s work and people. Laboring to sort truth from noise, God blessed, and an update was written to help missionaries and pastors meet the needs of those they serve. Best of all, it seems that He’s already using it.
We treasure your support as we focus together with you on obeying our Lord:
• Please pray for fruitful soul winning and discipleship.
• Recent medical concerns and a major injury remind us how much we need God’s favor in this season of life. Please pray for our health and that my shoulder might heal fully without needing surgery.
• We’re planning and preparing for the packed October/November schedule. Please pray for journey mercies and for God’s will to be done in the conferences and meetings.
• It would seem wise to begin writing out medical stewardship principles based upon what I’ve taught over the
years. Please pray for the Lord to confirm His will and for Him to make it possible.
That all might hear, everywhere,
Dan and Lana Siemer
