Saying ‘yes’ to God when your finances say ‘no’.

What does it look like to say ‘yes’ to God’s calling when your wallet says ‘no’? The simple answer is by faith and faith alone. Yet, there are more ways that we can continue walking in trusting the Lord in our everyday decisions. It's easy to worry about our future and all the costs that come with it. We can get caught up in the endless list of things we need, to save for, or even a lifestyle we want. We tend to set our eyes on things that are seen and temporary.

Doing a DTS is a big decision, but it is life-changing and a worthy investment. When we put our faith in God alone, amazing things can happen.

YWAM has a long history of God’s provision coming through at the perfect time. Many stories have set our feet to trusting Jesus without ever looking back. Here is a personal example:

I remember coming to YWAM Mexico, having been prompted by the Lord 4 months earlier to quit my job and trust Him for finances. I came to YWAM to do a school focussing on the prophetic. As each week passed and the due date for my school fees got closer, I began to worry. Yet, every day the Lord reminded me of His promises and His faithfulness. Even when I had $0.25 in my bank account, I chose to stand in worship, trusting that the Lord was going to pay for my school. 

There were many times that I would receive donations from people that I didn’t even know were following along in my journey. Every time I received a donation, no matter big or little, I would pray and God would direct me on where it should go. God told me that every cent that came in still was never truly mine. There were many times that I was asked to give it away to someone else for their needs. 

By the end of it, I had exactly what I needed to pay for my school fees, and could see how God used this time to not just increase my faith in Him but also be a part of what He was doing in others’ lives as well.

Despite my doubt and fear, God moved in powerful ways. Through the generosity of my friends, I was able to finish my school debt free and also see other people celebrate His provision.

This is just one story of God's faithfulness in the face of financial struggles. When we put our trust in God and remain faithful to His direction, He has a way of providing for our needs in ways we never thought possible. All we do is obey Him and He is the one who makes it possible.

Don't let financial fears hold you back from pursuing God's call on your life. Instead, take inspiration from the countless missionaries who have gone before you and seen God's miracles in their lives. If God is calling you to missions work, He will make a way for you to get there.

If you're feeling called to missions work or a DTS but are worried about the financial burden, I want to encourage you to take a step of faith. Trust in God’s leading and believe that He will provide for your needs. This doesn't mean you won't face challenges or have to work hard to fundraise, but it does mean that you can have faith that God is the one who will provide for you in unexpected ways.

So, whether you're feeling called to serve in Latin America, Africa, Asia, or anywhere else in the world, choose to walk in faith.

In the end, remember that God knows no limits. He is faithful to His promises, and He will provide for you as you seek to follow His call. So take that step of faith and see what amazing things God has in store for you as you pursue His mission!