It was Monday evening, and Laurie and I were out for a walk. We have some of our best conversations while walking. Our stroll started out with a pleasant chat about the weather and ended up with a dismal exchange about how low that month’s income towards our goal was probably going to be. With less than a week left in the month, we had hoped for better. Laurie mentioned that this was probably going to be one of the lowest months since we had started fundraising.

Suddenly, James 1:2, 3 came to my mind. “My brethren, count it all joy when ye fall into divers temptations . . . the trying of your faith worketh patience.” Remembering how God had provided in the past, I replied that it’s usually darkest just before dawn.

The next day, money started pouring in. By Friday, the money was still coming in and we realized how unnecessary our earlier complaints had been. Coming home Friday afternoon, though, I found Laurie in tears. I was worried momentarily until I realized they were tears of joy. A few last-minute donations on Friday had raised the month’s total to one of our highest ever.

God says in Zechariah 9:12, “Turn you to the stronghold, ye prisoners of hope: even today do I declare that I will render double unto thee.” As prisoners of hope, we had turned to our stronghold, God’s word, for comfort in time of need, and He rendered more than double. Earlier that week, our faith had been tested, but the Holy Spirit reminded us to “count it all joy.” Thank you to all of you who have committed to being missionary senders.

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