Seeing God through His Works

Sometimes the Lord gives us unique experiences whereby we see His nature clearly. When Dave and I were on a short term mission’s trip we had just such an experience.


It was 2002 and we were on an island of the Philippines. Our team’s assignment was spread out in homes, churches, schools, and even a tribal village. Our host pastor asked Dave & I to lead church in a home on Thursday nights. The group gathered there had once met in a building on the senior elder’s property, but a typhoon had destroyed it.

Through interpreters we led worship and a lesson. As time went on the elder, Rodine, shared with us that the church used to have over 100 members. But after the typhoon struck many became discouraged and one-by-one the families stopped coming. Some of the men turned to drinking and he was concerned about their families. Now there were only about 10-12 people meeting together in his home.

One day Dave made a proposal to our mission’s team; why don’t we use some of our funds to help them re-build their church? It was a unanimous “yes”. We were excited to bring this proposal to the church at Rodine’s house that week. And again, there was a resounding “yes.” Plans were drawn, supplies purchased, and the men from our team met with workers the following week end. The wives gathered to cook a tasty rice dessert served on banana fronds.

The new church had steel pillars set into cement. The roof was equally as sturdy. In a week’s time the structure was finished and an opening date set for the following Friday night; just a few days before our departure back to our homes.

We were glad to participate in their celebration of joy the next Friday. The youth group provided us with worship and dance. To our surprise the church was full, with over 75 people. Many of the youth stood outside, peering in the door. Later they met separately for their celebration in the elder’s home. Rodine was right; the people had needed encouragement. They were coming back to church again, happy to gather with the family of God.

Before the formal message Rodine stood and thanked our team, calling them up by name as the congregation clapped. We knew, though, that the credit went to God. As we looked at the happy faces a man stood and it became silent. He had also been an elder in the church and his words were important to the people. This man said “Now we know God has not forgotten us . . . He sent us you.”

Wow! Clearly the people had seen God at work, and that’s what they had been waiting for. Again the people clapped, cheering for the Lord and what He had done. We had been God’s hands and feet to His people; what a privilege.

Though we may forget, God does not forget His people. He is glorified in His mighty works. How doubly awesome it is to see and be a part of the works of God. Today, when you think to do good, do not hesitate, for God will be glorified and you will get to see more of His nature . . . how truly awesome He is! Amen.