International (MNN) — The harvest is plentiful. It has been
since Jesus first spoke the same words and then followed them up with "but the
workers are few" (Luke 10:2).
Two thousand years later, the story is the same. Millions,
if not billions, of people are hungry for Christ all around the world. Yet,
Christians, especially those in North America, are "disinterested or distracted
often away from the harvest," according to David Shibley, founder of Global
Advance.
Now, during difficult economic times, it is easier than ever
to ignore the call to help the lost.
"There's a natural, built-in self-defense mechanism in all
of us that wants to kind of 'circle the wagons' during difficult times," Shibley
said. "This makes it doubly important that we find and tap into the heart of
God during these times and realize…that a good offense is the best defense."
Shibley also said this large spiritual crop worldwide could
be lost if western Christians do not respond to the Great Commission.
As a ministry, Global Advance has committed not to cut
back on ministry or staff, Shibley said, even though they have just as many
financial challenges.
"This is a time of international harvest, and by God's
grace, we're going to be a part of fulfilling the Great Commission," Shibley
said. One way they plan to do this is by equipping as many people as possible
to advance the Gospel around the world through the rest of this year and next. They
are also working on strengthening the church across America.
"Even if our resources are far more now limited than they
used to be, we must find a way everyday to sow into the harvest worldwide,"
Shibley said.
The inspiration for this came from an African Bible college where
the students had very little. However, they began each day with a pledge to one
another and to God, "I will find a way everyday to give something to God and something
to people."
Pray for Global Advance to continue to expand its ministry
and gather the harvest by the grace of God and the faithfulness of their
partners.
If you would like to help, you can visit globaladvance.org for information on their ministries
and how to become involved.
