Visit with Shelly Summerfield and discover the importance of your prayer and financial support of those among us who serve overseas.

This post was originally published in the 2016 Spring issue of the GB Messenger. Don’t receive the Messenger? You can always catch the latest digital issue on the Messenger website, www.gbMessenger.org

Let’s begin with the big question: Why did you go to China?

Some people thought I was crazy for going to China but long story short—I was called and I went. I told people I wanted to experience something new—like a new culture, language, or yada yada but the real reason was I wanted to experience God in a new light—different from the typical “American Christian” way. And I did.

So, how was it?

My first year was the best year of my life. I was on a team of seven in a relatively small city. We taught together, prayed together, kept each other accountable and did life together. Students were drawn to us—they wanted to hear about Jesus.  The second year, God did a number on me. I moved to a larger city, had a smaller team, had a hard time teaching, but I got what I asked Him for—an experience that would help me see Him better. In a new way, I realized my need for Him—His love, His identity. It was hard—but I would do it all over again.

What do you miss?

What don’t I miss?! I miss the amazing food (very different from the American—Chinese “buffet” we know here.) I miss the welcoming and hospitable people—caring for me and helping me navigate life in their country.  And I miss the strategic relationships that were so obviously planned by the Father. Like with Cindy. When I met Cindy, she was closed off to the Father. One day she saw my Bible, and said she wanted to read it with me. I still see her face as she responded to the Word and to our conversation and I ask regularly that the Father will capture her heart. Cindy reminds me how God really uses us even when we don’t realize it.

Sounds like God answered your prayer about experiencing Him in a new light.

Yes, I learned so much about myself living overseas. Like, I am sinful, flawed, and redeemed all at the same time. I learned He is passionate about His name being made known among the nations. I learned that serving Him isn’t about me—it’s about Him.  About what He came to this earth to do. About what He did on the cross. About seeking Him first and keeping our eyes on Him daily. Those are lessons I’ll carry the rest of my life.

I also learned the importance of prayer. He listens when we ask Him for a connection with a student, He listens when we ask Him to provide the thousands of dollars we are behind on support. He cares, and He answers.

Having people pray for you is so critical. You can just tell. The enemy is strong, of course. The reality is that he is beneath our feet, but it sure doesn’t feel like it sometimes. He whispers “you shouldn’t be here.” He says, “God isn’t working through you” and “You’re not good enough to serve the King.” Those lies make it hard to serve. So now, when I pray for those serving overseas, I intercede for their personal walks with God. I pray that they would believe truth and believe that He is working in and through them.

I am so grateful for the support of my church, Fellowship General Baptist. They were so wonderful to me—quick to stand beside me in whatever way possible. Diligent in asking for specific ways to lift me up and then they showed me they were praying! Like when my e-bike was stolen—a praying church member provided the finances for a new one. And when I served refugees in Lebanon after China—they stood with me all the way in that important work. I am forever thankful for their partnership.

So—what’s next for you?

The work with refugees in Lebanon has stolen my heart! I’m going back with the same organization this summer. They are a great organization—passionate about the Gospel and about making His name known among the nations. They regularly pray for and care about their workers. I would 1000% recommend them if you are considering or know someone praying about going overseas.

If your heart is being stirred to go overseas, I would say GO! It’s a wonderful way to spend your life—not necessarily easy, but a way to experience God like you can’t even imagine. You will be refined and sanctified, and sometimes that hurts, but you will become more like Jesus. What’s better in this life?

If Shelly’s story has stirred your heart about serving overseas, then get in touch with the organization representative, Amanda, at 970-530-3840 and she’ll talk you through great short-term and long-term opportunities in Asia, Southeast Asia and the Middle East.

Find out if this adventure is for you!