Counsels on Church Life

Counsel #4 — Learn About The Field

Picture: Counsel #4 — Learn About The Field CCL 83.1

After buying tickets and finalizing places, it’s natural to imagine what the volunteer placement will be like. An island in the Pacific may conjure up romantic images of beaches and palm trees. Europe might inspire daydreamers with thoughts of castles and cobblestone streets. But now isn’t the time to create unrealistic expectations. Instead, it will be more helpful to spend time researching what the location will be like and what to expect regarding local culture, living conditions, and needs. If the target location is in a non-English speaking country, start learning the language! Being one or two steps ahead will make everything easier on arrival.^[109] CCL 83.2

“A man’s heart plans his way, But the Lord directs his steps.” Proverbs 16:9 CCL 83.3

“Before long there will be a positive necessity for many to leave their homes and work among those of other languages; and those who have some knowledge of foreign languages will thereby be able to communicate with those who know not the truth.” Ellen White in Words of Encouragement to Self-Supporting Workers, Pamphlet 113, p. 20.3 CCL 83.4

Reflect: If you are planning to serve in a specific place, do you have information about where you are going? What do you already know?^[110] CCL 83.5