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W. Austin Gardner welcomes you to the first episode of the World Evangelism Podcast. I hope you will subscribe, like, and share with others.

Today, we discussed Genesis 1:1 as a motivation for world evangelism. God created, so He has every right to command that the gospel be preached to His world.

We pray for China and ask you to pray. For more information, go to Operation World: https://operationworld.org/. Sign up for the daily email to pray for the country of the day.

Also, learn more about China here. https://operationworld.org/locations/china-peoples-republic/

You are encouraged to get your copy of the book where I was introduced to George Liele. https://www.amazon.com/Free-Indeed-Heroes-Christian-History/dp/1579247342/ref=sr_1_1?crid=EK2BX1UNH53V&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.FUXn1SV7J-BMu1RYJJi3LQ.12c8Q-KY-qIDe41kAqGjsVv6bMPBc_cgCvin6R5Mes8&dib_tag=se&keywords=free+indeed+sidwell&qid=1711321118&sprefix=free+indeed+sidw%2Caps%2C86&sr=8-1

I invite you to sign up for weekday emails from my writing here. https://waustingardner.substack.com/

Subscribe to my Austin Gardner YouTube channel as well. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCnr4HVuInKpwTE-Vybc-iLA

Dive into captivating missionary stories and enrich your leadership skills with our dynamic content. Join us on a journey of inspiration and empowerment as we share compelling narratives from the mission field and provide valuable leadership training. Whether you're seeking to expand your knowledge of global missions or enhance your leadership abilities, our channel offers engaging content that educates, inspires, and equips. Subscribe now to embark on a transformative learning experience!
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When the world seems to stand still in the face of grief, Bridgette's voice offers a tender melody of resilience and hope. In an episode that promises to touch the deepest corners of your heart, we journey with Bridgette, a missionary with a soul-stirring story of loss and steadfast faith. Her candid conversation with me, Austin Gardner, weaves through the pain of infant loss and the silent struggle with infertility. Bridgette's poignant narrative, chronicled in her book "Lost in the Gray," shines a light on these often-whispered topics, offering solace to those walking a similar mournful path.

The heartache of losing a child leaves a lasting imprint, and Bridgette bravely bares her own scars to guide others through the labyrinth of sorrow. Our discussion ventures into the dark valleys of depression, the strain on marriages, and the crucial embrace of professional help. Yet, amidst the shadows, we find the luminescence of community and faith—a beacon for healing. With compassion that transcends words, Bridget's experiences underscore the importance of creating spaces where all forms of motherhood are honored and supported.

In an act of service beyond mere conversation, the episode extends practical advice for those seeking to comfort the grieving. From the simple acts of providing meals to the profound gesture of remembering lost children, we explore tangible ways to walk alongside bereaved parents with tenderness and understanding. As the episode culminates, Bridgette and I join hearts with our listeners in prayer, fostering a collective journey toward healing and hope. This is not just a story of grief—it's a testament to the unwavering human spirit and the power of shared stories to uplift and inspire.

Lost in the Gray


My Grief Journal Real Feelings and Deep Truths

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Discover the timeless calling that began with a man named Abram and the profound impact it has had on my journey of faith and service. As we navigate the story of world evangelism, I'm thrilled to share how the Jewish nation's role in bringing forth the Scriptures, the church, and the Messiah laid the foundation for a global mission that transcends all boundaries. The compelling tale of Bill Wallace, a medical missionary whose dedication and sacrifice in China have left an eternal legacy, has been a personal beacon of inspiration for me. Through these narratives, I invite you to consider how we, too, are called to be a blessing to nations far and wide, sharing the transformative love of Jesus with every corner of the earth.

Our adventure doesn't stop at ancient paths; it leads us to the vibrant and spiritually thirsty land of India, where the challenges and opportunities for Christian missions abound. Here, I recount the vivid experiences and the heartfelt longing for the youth to rise with passion for missionary work. We also honor the unwavering spirit of Bridget Young, who despite personal trials, continues to serve with steadfast faith in Colombia. This episode is a call to action, an encouragement for the church to equip the next wave of missionaries, and a reminder of the imminent hope in Christ's return. Join us as we explore the urgency of the gospel's reach and the shared commitment to glorify God in the tapestry of world evangelism.

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Have you ever found yourself questioning the purpose behind life's most painful moments? Bridgette Young joins us, and with a voice that echoes the strength of the human spirit, she shares the heartbreak of losing two children to ectopic pregnancies, and the anger with God that followed. Her openness offers a guiding light to those who have felt lost in the shadows of grief and reinforces the lesson that faith can emerge stronger from the fires of suffering. We draw inspiration from biblical figures, finding solace in the stories of Joseph and Moses, as Bridget shares the poignant significances behind the names of her lost children.

Amidst the storm of sorrow, there's a tale of a mother's courage as she wrestles with depression while trying to keep life normal for her daughter, Willow. The dance between shielding her child and the eventual embrace of vulnerability within her marriage paints a raw picture of the familial ripple effects of loss. We also get an exclusive glimpse into her soon-to-be-released book, offering a beacon of hope for others navigating the murky waters of grief. The conversation shifts to a heartfelt account of how therapy, despite initial resistance, carved a path toward healing through the wise counsel of a retired pastor.

We round out our conversation by confronting the stigma of therapy and counseling within the Christian community. Bridgette and I share personal insights into the transformative power of seeking professional guidance, unpacking the false beliefs that can prevent many from accessing the support they need. By sharing the creation of a grief journal and discussing the benefits of therapy, we extend an invitation to find strength and solace in embracing our own emotional wellbeing. Join us for this deep and necessary exploration into the ways we can emerge victorious from life's most challenging trials.

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As a beacon of inspiration, our latest podcast episode unfurls the narrative of world evangelism, a story not of obligation but of elation in sharing salvation's joy. We weave through the rich tapestry of God's unending love, from the very blueprint of creation to the present day, beckoning a prayerful focus on global mission fields, like Indonesia's vibrant youth. The pages of "Christian Missions in Biblical Perspective" by J Herbert Kane await those yearning for a scriptural compass, guiding the missionary's heart amid the diverse landscapes of faith.

Amidst our profound discussions, we elevate the enduring spirit of Georgia Webb, whose legacy in equipping missionaries with Spanish whispers through the corridors of time, inspiring single women called to this sacred journey. Bridget Young, the poignant voice behind "Lost in the Gray," blesses us with her testimony, confronting the complexities of faith when life's hues blur. Together, we explore the essence of contribution in God's work—whether through giving or going—and invite you to join our ongoing mission to empower evangelism with your insights and stories, creating a fellowship enriched by the transformative message of Jesus Christ.

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When the unimaginable happens and we're left navigating the dark waters of grief, finding a beacon of hope can be a formidable challenge. Bridgette Young, a missionary with a heartrending story of loss, joins me to share how therapy became that beacon for her, illuminating a path through the pain. Bridgette's candid discussion about her virtual therapy journey from Colombia, and the profound effect grief had on her physical health, underscores the often-overlooked necessity of professional support during such times. Through her story, we're given an intimate look at the intricate process of healing, and how prioritizing one's well-being can make all the difference.

As our conversation unfolds, we explore the complex tapestry of trauma, identity, and faith. The narrative takes us through the emotional labyrinth of pregnancy termination due to medical reasons, a friend's empathetic response that became a cornerstone of healing, and the vital role of specialized counseling. We confront the cultural pressures that can obscure a woman's identity in Christ, discussing how to find true purpose that transcends the roles of wife and mother. Bridgette and I also tackle the transformative power of empathy and the liberating realization that our worth is deeply rooted in our relationship with God, not the societal constructs around us.

Closing this episode, we reflect on the enduring strength derived from faith and scripture amidst life's most harrowing losses. Bridgette and I share personal encounters with divine goodness and mercy, even when God's plans seem shrouded in mystery. Our discussion culminates with Bridgette's courageous step into authorship, driven by a desire to share God's transformative work in her life with others. As we celebrate the resilience of the human spirit and the solace found in shared stories, this special edition of the World Evangelism Podcast is a testament to the unwavering hope that comes from community and faith in the face of adversity.

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Have you ever pondered how the vast cultural tapestry of the United States impacts the mission of spreading the Gospel? Our latest episode takes you on a journey through the unique challenges and bountiful opportunities for evangelism within America's borders. With an eye on the diversity that defines this nation, we dissect how the wealth and resources at our disposal can magnify our efforts to fulfill the Great Commission. We offer prayers for our leaders and churches, and we confront the tension between cultural Christianity and the authentic message of Jesus, guided by the powerful narrative of Exodus 9. Discover the profound implications of God's sovereignty and His desire for His name to be proclaimed globally, amid a world teeming with man-made idols.

The path of a missionary is often misunderstood, paved with expectations and misconceptions. In this heart-to-heart, we extend a hand of understanding and grace to those brave souls, affirming that they are not just bearers of faith, but learners and nurturers amidst the fields of diverse cultures. We address the joys and pressures of their calling, the sustaining power of prayer, and the wisdom to be harvested from historical figures like Zinzendorf and transformative principles such as the Treasure Principle. Join us in a respectful and loving tribute to the missionaries and their supporters, as we underscore the importance of sowing the seeds of the Gospel with a spirit of joy and unity.

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Key take aways

"God is a missionary God, and the entire Bible talks about it."

"There's a job for you in getting the gospel to the world."

"Time alone in prayer, time in meditation, time listening to the Holy Spirit - that's what it's going to take to last as a missionary."

Country of the Week, Pakistan
Book of the Week, From Jerusalem to Irian Jaya
Verse of the Week, Genesis 9:17
Person of the Week, John and Betty Stam

Embark on a journey through the heart of world evangelism, where the promise of God's covenant from Genesis stretches out to the furthest corners of the Earth. As we traverse the challenging yet fertile fields of Pakistan, a nation thirsting for the Gospel amidst severe persecution, we uncover the profound need to spread God's word. Drawing on Ruth Tucker's "From Jerusalem to Irian Jaya," we delve deep into the rich tapestry of Christian missionary history, offering both insight and inspiration. The personal story of my friend David Maddox's solo mission trips serves as a stirring example of the individual impact one can have in fulfilling the Great Commission.

Feeling that tug on your heartstrings, that call to serve? This episode is a treasure trove of encouragement and guidance for those discerning a life in ministry. My booklet "Are You Called?" provides a navigation tool for young people to evaluate their readiness across personal, financial, and spiritual spectrums. It is more than just a conversation; it's a lifeline for those who yearn to train others in the ministry and find their identity in Christ. Join us, share your faith journey, and be part of a community that's passionate about igniting a global spiritual awakening. Together, let's celebrate the transformative power of sharing Jesus's love across the world.

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