Thursday, November 19, 2020

Daily Devotion: The Missionary Applicant

Bible Reading: James 4:1-8

Key Verse: Verse 6 –“But he giveth more grace. Wherefore he saith, God resisteth the proud, but giveth grace unto the humble.

Key Words: But giveth grace unto the humble

There is a story in regard to missionaries I love to tell. It goes like this.

At three o’clock one wintry morning, a missionary candidate climbed the steps to the examiner’s house. He was shown into the study where he waited until eight o’clock for an interview.

Upon arriving, the old clergyman proceeded to ask questions. “Can you spell?” “Yes, sir,” was the reply. “All right – spell baker.” “Baker: b-a-k-e-r.” “Fine. Now do you know anything about figures?” the examiner inquired. “Yes, sir – something.” “How much is two times two?” “Four,” replied the lad.

That’s splendid,” returned the old man. “I believe you have passed. I’ll see the board tomorrow.”

At the board meeting the man admitted his account of the interview. “He has all the qualifications of a missionary,” he began.

First, I tested him on self-denial. I told him to be at my house at three o’clock in the morning. He left a warm bed and came out in the cold without a word of complaint.

Second, I tried him out on promptness. He appeared on time.

Third, I examined him on patience. I made him wait five hours to see me after telling him to come at three.

Fourth, I tested him on temper. He failed to show any sign of it; he didn’t even question my delay.

Fifth, I tried his humility. I asked him questions that a five year-old child could answer, and he showed no indignation. So you see, I believe this lad meets the requirements. He will make the missionary we need.”

So he would – but he will still need the financial support from churches!



What to do:

Pray for our missionaries: Tom and Addie Rooney to England; and Jean and Sherley Rousseau to Canada.


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