Modern Day Missionaries

What might God be calling you to start, stop, or step into this year?What if asking the right questions could launch you into the most impactful year of your life?In this episode, we give you an activity you can do today to launch you strong into the new year!Marvin Slaton, executive director of Modern Day Missions, shares five profound questions to help missionaries reflect, realign, and reimagine their calling for the new year and beyond.Let them help you discover what the Lord wants to birth, refine, and resurrect in your life this year. Grab a pen or reflect as you listen—this episode is packed with inspiration to launch you into your best year yet!✍️ In this episode, you'll learn:How pruning can lead to fresh growth and freedom.Why revisiting past passions or goals could bring fresh life into our calling.How to reflect on ministry with fresh eyes and open hearts.Practical ways to evaluate and deepen our current ministry efforts.How to identify what God is calling us to start or create this year.💡 Questions to Ponder as You Listen:What are the things God is wanting to birth or bring to life in you? (birth)What is the ministry God has for you to jump into or go deeper in? (ministry)Are there things God is calling you to put to death, learn from, and move on from? (death )Is God wanting to resurrect an area of your life that was thriving before but currently needs new life? (resurrection)What is God calling you to ascend, complete, fulfill, or overcome or conquer? (ascension)Hey missionaries—how are your finances on the field? At Modern Day Missions, we make it simple for missionaries to receive donations and for donors to give. Serving 1,100+ missionaries worldwide, we free you to focus on your calling. We also offer resources like our weekly podcast, fundraising coaching, and a resource-packed newsletter. Connect with us at modernday.orgThanks for listening! Email us your questions at care@modernday.orgWebsite: https://www.modernday.org/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLu3ie6N7vXvESqcHrM-SRTC7-XoPEmnv6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moderndaymissions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moderndaymissions/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moderndaymissionsX: https://twitter.com/Modern_DayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moderndaymissions/

Are you feeling overwhelmed, unsure if your stress is too much—or maybe not enough? Wondering how to find a healthy rhythm for the demands of missionary life?In this episode, Dr. Kristi Gaultiere joins us to unpack the reality of stress and how it impacts missionaries uniquely.We look at the difference between healthy and unhealthy stress, how to recognize the signs of being "stressed in" or "stressed out," and what adrenaline addiction is and how it can quietly sabotage your life and ministry.Discover how to align your rhythms with Jesus’ easy yoke and cultivate a sustainable, grace-filled approach to life and mission.If you’re ready to learn how to thrive under pressure without burning out, this conversation is for you!Hey missionaries—how are your finances on the field? At Modern Day Missions, we make it simple for missionaries to receive donations and for donors to give. Serving 1,100+ missionaries worldwide, we free you to focus on your calling. We also offer resources like our weekly podcast, fundraising coaching, and a resource-packed newsletter. Connect with us at modernday.orgThanks for listening! Email us your questions at care@modernday.orgWebsite: https://www.modernday.org/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLu3ie6N7vXvESqcHrM-SRTC7-XoPEmnv6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moderndaymissions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moderndaymissions/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moderndaymissionsX: https://twitter.com/Modern_DayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moderndaymissions/

Join us for an unforgettable conversation with Rod Plummer, a missionary and church planter in Japan for over 20 years. Rod shares the incredible story of how he and his wife, Viv, and their family and team became part of a wave of God’s movement in one of the world’s most challenging mission fields.You’ll be amazed at some of the approaches the Plummers took and how surprisingly effective they were, challenging conventional missions wisdom. They now have 17+ campuses throughout Japan and Asia and a thriving team of missionaries and nationals reaching people for Christ.From practical strategies to divine inspiration, this episode will inspire you to think differently, give you new ideas, and challenge you to step boldly into the impossible. Tune in for a conversation that could redefine your perspective on missions strategies!Hey missionaries—how are your finances on the field? At Modern Day Missions, we make it simple for missionaries to receive donations and for donors to give. Serving 1,100+ missionaries worldwide, we free you to focus on your calling. We also offer resources like our weekly podcast, fundraising coaching, and a resource-packed newsletter. Connect with us at modernday.orgThanks for listening! Email us your questions at care@modernday.orgWebsite: https://www.modernday.org/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLu3ie6N7vXvESqcHrM-SRTC7-XoPEmnv6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moderndaymissions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moderndaymissions/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moderndaymissionsX: https://twitter.com/Modern_DayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moderndaymissions/

Have you ever looked back on a really hard season on the field, a huge thing God asked you to do, or a big unexpected change and thought, Wow, I’m SO glad I didn’t know that was coming? Because I would have run for the hills!In this episode, we sit down with Vonna Laue, author of the upcoming book Glad I Didn’t Know, to discuss life’s unexpected twists and turns in the world of missions. Vonna shares her journey, from unplanned moves and family challenges to the unique pressures and joys that missionaries face when God’s plans unfold in surprising ways.She offers wisdom and concrete ways to live fully in the moment while trusting God with what’s to come. Whether you’re on the field or supporting others who are, this conversation will remind you of the resilience and hope that carries us through, even when the future feels uncertain.✍️ In this episode, you’ll learn:How we can find peace in the unknown, even when life surprises usWhy it’s okay (and even good) to be glad we didn’t know everything aheadHow our personal journeys strengthen our calling in missionsPractical ways we can stay grounded, no matter what life bringsTips for balancing structure with flexibility in our daily lives and ministries💡Questions to Ponder as You Listen:Where in my life have I felt grateful not to know what was coming?How do I usually respond to unexpected twists—am I open or resistant?What stories from my past show God’s faithfulness through surprises?How can I stay flexible and trusting when plans suddenly change?In what ways might God be calling me to release control right now?Hey missionaries—how are your finances on the field? At Modern Day Missions, we make it simple for missionaries to receive donations and for donors to give. Serving 1,100+ missionaries worldwide, we free you to focus on your calling. We also offer resources like our weekly podcast, fundraising coaching, and a resource-packed newsletter. Connect with us at modernday.orgThanks for listening! Email us your questions at care@modernday.orgWebsite: https://www.modernday.org/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLu3ie6N7vXvESqcHrM-SRTC7-XoPEmnv6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moderndaymissions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moderndaymissions/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moderndaymissionsX: https://twitter.com/Modern_DayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moderndaymissions/

How do you handle team conflicts when your cultural values clash? What’s the secret to building trust in a team of people from very different backgrounds?You may have learned about the culture you are going to serve, but did you learn about the cultures of the people you are serving with? Missions is much more complex and beautiful than we could ever know!The makeup of teams serving overseas are changing. If you don’t already serve with people from various countries, you likely soon will. This is an exciting challenge, and one we need to know more about.In this episode, we’re joined by cross-cultural expert I’Ching Thomas, who gives excellent advice on how to build strong relationships among culturally diverse teams.With real-life examples and strategies, I'Ching helps us explore how to bridge cultural gaps, deepen trust, and build a unified team that reflects the love of Christ. Don’t miss this conversation on creating stronger, more resilient cross-cultural teams!✍️ In this episode, you’ll learn:How we can bridge cultural gaps on diverse mission teamsPractical ways to build trust and unity among teammates from different backgroundsTips for handling team conflicts when values and communication styles clashWhy it's essential to approach our teammates with humility and opennessHow we can create a strong, Christ-centered team culture💡Questions to Ponder as You Listen:How do I usually respond when misunderstandings arise with teammates from different cultures?What cultural biases might I bring into my team interactions?Am I intentional about building relationships, or do I focus mainly on tasks?How often do I pause to truly listen and learn from my teammates' perspectives?What steps can I take to create a more inclusive and understanding team environment?Hey missionaries—how are your finances on the field? At Modern Day Missions, we make it simple for missionaries to receive donations and for donors to give. Serving 1,100+ missionaries worldwide, we free you to focus on your calling. We also offer resources like our weekly podcast, fundraising coaching, and a resource-packed newsletter. Connect with us at modernday.orgThanks for listening! Email us your questions at care@modernday.orgWebsite: https://www.modernday.org/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLu3ie6N7vXvESqcHrM-SRTC7-XoPEmnv6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moderndaymissions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moderndaymissions/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moderndaymissionsX: https://twitter.com/Modern_DayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moderndaymissions/

Do you ever wonder if your prayers are really making a difference? Or feel frustrated when you don’t see results? If you pray and something doesn’t happen, was it worth it or a waste of time? Does God already have planned out what he’s going to do anyway?In this episode, we talk with missionary Peter Warren, a leader in YWAM, who brings a fresh take on how prayer works and why it matters. We dive into what it means to co-create with God through prayer, if prayer can actually change things, and what role persistence plays. If you've ever struggled with prayer or questioned its impact, this conversation will encourage you and give you a whole new perspective!✍️ In this episode, you’ll learn:How we can partner with God through prayer to impact real outcomesWhy some prayers take time and how persistence plays a key roleHow to align our prayers with God’s will and desiresWhat it looks like to persist in prayer, even when we feel discouragedWhat it means to co-create with God💡Questions to Ponder as You Listen:Do I really believe my prayers can change things, or do I feel like I’m wasting time?How do I approach prayer—am I expecting God to respond, or just checking a box?Am I praying for what God wants, or am I trying to steer things my own way?What does it look like for me to partner with God through prayer?How can I keep praying when it feels like nothing’s happening?Hey missionaries—how are your finances on the field? At Modern Day Missions, we make it simple for missionaries to receive donations and for donors to give. Serving 1,100+ missionaries worldwide, we free you to focus on your calling. We also offer resources like our weekly podcast, fundraising coaching, and a resource-packed newsletter. Connect with us at modernday.orgThanks for listening! Email us your questions at care@modernday.orgWebsite: https://www.modernday.org/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLu3ie6N7vXvESqcHrM-SRTC7-XoPEmnv6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moderndaymissions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moderndaymissions/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moderndaymissionsX: https://twitter.com/Modern_DayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moderndaymissions/

What does surrendering to God mean? Can someone be walking in faith and be surrendered to God? Is surrender giving up? How do we balance the reality of suffering with believing in God as our provider and healer? How can we know when we’re using faith as a way to try and control God versus having faith that pleases him?Uff. Suffering brings up SO many questions. In this week’s episode, we wade into the waters of suffering, surrender, faith, and hope with former missionary, member care veteran, and ordained Anglican priest Scott Shaum.This conversation is rich, challenging, comforting and discerning. You’ll receive fresh insights and new ways of seeing whatever difficulty you may be walking through.✍️ In this episode, you’ll learn:How we can navigate the tension between faith and surrender in difficult times.Practical ways to walk through pain while still holding onto hope and faith.How suffering can be a key part of our spiritual growth and maturity.Insights on how our view of God shapes how we handle suffering and hardship.How we can trust God’s presence even when we don’t get the answers we want.💡Questions to Ponder as You Listen:Am I truly surrendering to God, or am I trying to control outcomes with my faith?How do I see God as both my healer and provider, even in seasons of suffering?What does it look like for me to hold onto hope while walking through pain?How can I embrace surrender without feeling like I’m giving up?Am I allowing God to use my challenges to shape me, or am I resisting His work?Hey missionaries—how are your finances on the field? At Modern Day Missions, we make it simple for missionaries to receive donations and for donors to give. Serving 1,100+ missionaries worldwide, we free you to focus on your calling. We also offer resources like our weekly podcast, fundraising coaching, and a resource-packed newsletter. Connect with us at modernday.orgThanks for listening! Email us your questions at care@modernday.orgWebsite: https://www.modernday.org/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLu3ie6N7vXvESqcHrM-SRTC7-XoPEmnv6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moderndaymissions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moderndaymissions/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moderndaymissionsX: https://twitter.com/Modern_DayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moderndaymissions/

Have you ever wondered why people respond to trauma in such different ways? In this episode, we dive deep into the complexities of trauma with Dr. Jamie Aten, a leading expert in the field. We explore the multifaceted nature of trauma, breaking down why people's experiences and reactions to it can be so widely different.Dr. Aten gives practical, effective strategies that those of us who work in high-stress and emotionally charged settings can use to work through trauma in our own lives while also giving compassionate care to those around us who have experienced it.This isn't just an academic discussion; the episode is laden with real-world applications. Dr. Aten shares tools from his spiritual aid toolkit and gives a sense of hope for anyone grappling with the challenges of trauma. Whether you're a missionary, a caregiver, or someone looking to better understand the human experience, this episode is a must-listen.✍️ In this episode, you’ll learn:Why people experience and respond to trauma in such different waysPractical tips for missionaries to recognize and manage their own traumaHow to provide compassionate care for those facing trauma in high-stress environmentsReal-life strategies for building emotional resilience in your daily lifeThe importance of self-care when working in challenging, trauma-filled settings💡Questions to Ponder as You Listen:How do I typically respond to stress or trauma in my life?What strategies have I used to help others cope with difficult experiences?In what ways can I improve my emotional resilience as a missionary?How might understanding different trauma responses help me care for those around me?What role does self-care play in managing my own emotional well-being in tough environments?Hey missionaries—how are your finances on the field? At Modern Day Missions, we make it simple for missionaries to receive donations and for donors to give. Serving 1,100+ missionaries worldwide, we free you to focus on your calling. We also offer resources like our weekly podcast, fundraising coaching, and a resource-packed newsletter. Connect with us at modernday.orgThanks for listening! Email us your questions at care@modernday.orgWebsite: https://www.modernday.org/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLu3ie6N7vXvESqcHrM-SRTC7-XoPEmnv6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moderndaymissions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moderndaymissions/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moderndaymissionsX: https://twitter.com/Modern_DayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moderndaymissions/

Do you ever struggle with knowing how to keep your team motivated? Especially when the work is hard, the stakes are high, and the pay is low (or non-existent)? How can you create a team culture of health from the top down?In this episode, we sit down with Nic and Rachael Billman, founders of Shores of Grace. They have spent over 14 years leading missionaries and staff in Brazil. They open up about the challenges and rewards of managing complex teams, from balancing paid staff and volunteers to navigating the complexities of cross-cultural leadership.You'll hear their practical tips on keeping teams unified, motivated, and healthy—plus some personal stories that are sure to resonate with anyone leading in ministry. Whether you're running a small team or a large ministry, this conversation will inspire you with fresh ideas for leading your team in an effective and healthy way.✍️  In this episode, you’ll learn:How to keep your team motivated, even when life gets toughSimple ways to build unity across different cultures and personalitiesPractical ways to set a sustainable pace for your team’s long-term successTips for handling conflict and keeping relationships healthyWhy focusing on relationships and care makes all the difference in ministry💡 Questions to Ponder as You Listen:What are a few ways we can help team members take ownership of their roles and responsibilities?How do we lead well when our team members have different expectations or backgrounds?What are some creative ways to motivate our team during tough seasons?How can we better support our team’s emotional health, especially in seasons of high stress?What steps can we take to foster deeper relationships and trust within our team?Hey missionaries—how are your finances on the field? At Modern Day Missions, we make it simple for missionaries to receive donations and for donors to give. Serving 1,100+ missionaries worldwide, we free you to focus on your calling. We also offer resources like our weekly podcast, fundraising coaching, and a resource-packed newsletter. Connect with us at modernday.orgThanks for listening! Email us your questions at care@modernday.orgWebsite: https://www.modernday.org/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLu3ie6N7vXvESqcHrM-SRTC7-XoPEmnv6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moderndaymissions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moderndaymissions/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moderndaymissionsX: https://twitter.com/Modern_DayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moderndaymissions/

Being an MK––or parenting an MK––is a journey like none other! If you’re the parent of missionary kids or you grew up as an MK or TCK––or if you know MK’s and just want to understand them better––today, we dive into the wild world of growing up overseas!What makes today’s missionary kids different than the MK’s who came before them? How can those of us who love them understand their world a little better so we can support them and help them flourish?Today, Dr. Rob Hoskins, MK, TCK, parent of MK's, and President of OneHope, which has given away more than 2 billion Bibles to children and youth around the world, shares strategic ways to engage culture as a family and how to have fun in the process!Join us for this vulnerable and powerful encore episode with Rob about MK’s as we dig into the great parts, the hard parts, and how we can help MK’s thrive.✍️  In this episode, you’ll learn:Specific ways missionary parents can balance the demands of ministry while making their children's well-being a priority.What it’s really like to grow up as a missionary kid today, from adapting to different cultures to handling the unique dynamics of missionary family life.One of Rob’s keys to helping MK’s thrive in their unique circumstances.The ways the digital age is reshaping the challenges MK’s face today and what that means for their upbringing.Practical, relatable advice for parents on how to navigate the tension between their calling and raising healthy, happy kids.💡 Questions to Ponder as You Listen:How can we create a sense of belonging and inclusion for our kids while balancing the demands of ministry?What intentional steps can we take to ensure our children are thriving emotionally and spiritually, even in challenging environments?How is digital culture affecting our kids, and what can we do to help guide them through its challenges?How can we manage the tension between fulfilling our calling and making sure our children's well-being comes first?What are some practical ways to involve our children in the mission without overwhelming or isolating them from the joys of childhood?Hey missionaries—how are your finances on the field? At Modern Day Missions, we make it simple for missionaries to receive donations and for donors to give. Serving 1,100+ missionaries worldwide, we free you to focus on your calling. We also offer resources like our weekly podcast, fundraising coaching, and a resource-packed newsletter. Connect with us at modernday.orgThanks for listening! Email us your questions at care@modernday.orgWebsite: https://www.modernday.org/podcastYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLu3ie6N7vXvESqcHrM-SRTC7-XoPEmnv6Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/moderndaymissions/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/moderndaymissions/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@moderndaymissionsX: https://twitter.com/Modern_DayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/moderndaymissions/