“A man’s mind plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” (Proverbs 16:9)
Last month, Jeff Dahl informed you that he was stepping down as Business Manager of the World Mission Prayer League and that I would step into that role. I am honored to do so. For the last three years I have been working with Jeff in the Business Office and have come to appreciate his leadership immeasurably. I have never worked with a finer colleague. I will do everything I can to make our transition in leadership smooth.
Twenty years ago, I participated in Briefing Course with Jeff and Kathie. They went to Mexico; I went to Bangladesh, where I served as Treasurer of the LAMB Medical Project for four and a half years. A change in government rules made continuation in that position impossible. Back in the U.S., I attended Wheaton Graduate School and received an MA in Biblical and Theological Studies. This prepared me to return to Bangladesh and join the faculty of the College of Christian Theology – Bangladesh (CCTB) in Dhaka.
Like Jeff, I have always had an appreciation for Proverbs 16:9. “A man’s mind plans his way, but the Lord directs his steps.” I planned to teach at CCTB. But the Lord had different plans. Soon after I arrived, I was asked to lead a management team of three persons, to administer the school while it searched for a new principal. The Lord put me back into an office.
We will continue to look for the right person to take the responsibility of Business Manager for the long-term. I am happy to serve in the meanwhile. Since my last “temporary” assignment lasted four years, however, I will not hold my breath. I have sometimes fretted over what the Lord would have me do. I have learned through the years that he is in charge and may be trusted to lead.
Another area in which he is trustworthy is in his provision. I am pleased to announce that due to a large special gift to our Missionary Support Fund, we were able to pay full allowances to all of missionaries in September. We paid all benefits obligations as well, without drawing much from our Estate Funds.
Your prayers for my transition to Business Manager and for continued financial support will be much appreciated. Thank you for your partnership in this ministry!