Strength In Weakness

Have you felt weak any time recently? If so, what did you think about it, and more importantly, what did you do about it? In mid-November, 130 YWAMers from Northern Thailand came together for their Regional Staff Conference under the theme “Strength in Weakness.” We were reminded from both Isaiah 40 and Matthew 18 that growing weary or weak at times is a normal part of our lives on this earth. This even happened to Jesus! But we also saw that we don’t have to stay weak. As we come to Jesus, He will give us rest and strengthen us so that we cannot only “make it through,” we can run and even fly like eagles.

During these four days together, as we worshiped God, considered His Word and shared our struggles with one another in prayer, we were truly strengthened in our weakness. Renewing friendships and spending time with staff from other locations was an encouraging and uplifting experience. One of the things we appreciate so much about YWAM is the emphasis and value that is given to our relationships with one another.

A significant moment that reflected this value was welcoming into the family a number of YWAMers from other nations who have been working in the north in the area of Frontier Missions. Paul Wilcox, the Northern Thailand regional director, challenged us to open our arms wider for new expressions of ministry God is sending that may not exactly “fit” in past structures.

One of our highlights was hearing a powerful message by Chiang Rai DTS co-leader, Daow Kulkit, from the life of David. Daow challenged us to follow David and Jonathan’s examples and deepen our relationships with one another as a way to gain strength and blessing. After hearing a renewed commitment by our non-Thai staff to make place for more Thai leaders in the north, Lighthouse in Action leader, Emmi Khankaew, called on her fellow Thais to boldly stand up and take their place in our mission. We are very blessed to have the example of these Thai female leaders, and others like them, in our mission. The positive response from the Thais in the room was a preview of seeing a future explosion of Thai leaders in the north.

We came away from the conference with new strength, encouragement and expectation of seeing God doing even greater things in the north of Thailand! Remembering the Apostle Paul’s words that God’s strength is perfected in our weakness, let’s share our needs with one another and together run to Jesus, so that He will strengthen us for the great things He has ahead!