Faith Over Fear: Following God into the Unknown
What if God leads you to something that scares you? What if saying “yes” means stepping into the unknown, leaving behind comfort, and facing uncertainties? For many people, the idea of becoming a missionary and serving in cross-cultural ministry stirs excitement and fear.
Venturing beyond the familiar brings many emotions, especially when it involves a radical life change like moving overseas for mission work. Worry, doubt, and apprehension often accompany peace and purpose as you follow God’s leadership.
It’s natural to feel fear when stepping into something unfamiliar. The Bible is filled with stories of people who felt inadequate or afraid—Moses, Gideon, and Jonah, to name a few. But God continually reassured His people, just as He does today.
This was certainly the case for Helen, who had never been outside the United States when God began stirring her heart to serve Him cross-culturally. She attended a Missions Night at her church, which opened the doors for her to serve overseas.
“A SIM missionary couple based in Nigeria came to the church. They played a video and shared about their ministry and the people there. It was like the Holy Spirit said, ‘Sit up, pay attention. You’re going to Africa,’” Helen remembered.
Helen followed God to Nigeria for a short-term assignment. After that, she went to Sudan for a long-term assignment, and she has been there for nearly two decades now.
“If it’s God, don’t fight it. Can it be overwhelming? Can it be scary? Yes, it can be,” Helen said, reflecting on the fear that may accompany following God overseas. “It can be scary, but if we’re in the middle of His will, we’re safe no matter where we’re going… let Him walk you through it.”
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8
Prepared, Not Paralyzed: The Role of Training in Missions
Before Helen embarked on her journey to Africa, she completed intercultural training courses designed to prepare her for cultural immersion and language learning. This cross-cultural training helped her as she began living overseas for the first time. Missionary preparation is vital in preparing to serve internationally.
The more equipped you are, the less intimidating the unknown will feel. Language, culture, and ministry skills training can turn fear into confidence. SIM USA provides preparation that equips workers to face challenges with faith and forethought rather than fear.
After being accepted to serve with SIM USA and discerning your ministry placement, your coordinator will design a personalized launch preparation plan with a tailored training approach to fully equip you for life and service where God leads you.
All SIM USA overseas workers undergo cross-cultural missionary training, language training, and support-raising training. Other forms of training depend on each person’s situation, background, and needs. Preparation to become a cross-cultural worker can also include theological training, security training, and job-specific training.
“A lot of that training is why you still see me on the field,” Helen said. “It doesn’t mean that my Western ways didn’t get in the way sometimes, but training and reading about the country I was going to helped me tremendously.”
Helen also encourages potential global workers to connect with missionaries who have firsthand experience in their future ministry country. Isolation can amplify fear, but when you enter cross-cultural ministry, you join a global family. Others have gone before you, who are walking the same road, and who will support you. Being part of a missionary community helps strengthen faith and provides encouragement when fear arises.
“Informing yourself and talking to people who have been there and can support you in understanding this new culture is very helpful,” she said.
“So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up.”
Ephesians 4:11-12
Equipped for the Journey: Training and Support with SIM USA
Many people think that if they feel afraid, it must mean they are not meant to go. But fear is not a sign that you’re outside of God’s will—it’s an opportunity to trust Him more deeply.
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
2 Timothy 1:7
Fear fades when you focus on the One who is leading you. Remember what God told Joshua when he faced the unknown: “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go” (Joshua 1:9).
“Just remember that He’s faithful. He’s always with you. As you’re going through the process, get help if you’re struggling. Talk to somebody. Don’t try to bury it,” Helen said.
“If God wants you there, it doesn’t mean it will be a bed of roses. But He is there with you, and you have other people on the team who will walk with you and help you understand the culture. So, trust God—that’s the key.”
Helen’s journey illustrates how faith can triumph over apprehension of the unknown in missions. While the path may not always be easy, the assurance of God’s presence and the support of fellow believers provide the courage needed to follow Him in faith. Indeed, it’s how God grows our faith!
If you think God may be leading you to cross-cultural work, consider partnering with SIM USA. We offer comprehensive training programs to equip you for life and ministry overseas, ensuring you are prepared to navigate the challenges and embrace the joys of serving in a new culture.
Take the next step in your journey of faith! Visit our website to learn more about how you can share the love of Jesus globally. Together, we can step into the unknown, empowered by faith and supported by a community of believers.
Names have been changed for the privacy and safety of our workers, ministry partners, and those we serve.