It was only three months after I had arrived in China. We foreign teachers lived in the company’s hotel, which would be about two or three stars. It was sufficient, but adjusting was still a big job. So, when a lady who spoke English stayed at the hotel, it was a big deal.
I went out to dinner with her that evening and the talking covered many topics. She was particularly interested in Christianity. We discussed many things and I answered many questions. Nonetheless, I was feeling very uncomfortable being new to China and knowing that ‘foreigners’ were not to proselytise.
Anxiety
It was soon after she left that the anxiety really hit me. It is very difficult at times living in a country without ‘freedom of religion.’ I started talking about it all to Father God and asking for guidance. I did not doubt that he was still in control, but I needed peace. I picked up my bible and started reading.
The Answer
I was in Acts and soon read, “Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent.” (Acts 18:9) I had just asked for direction and there it was, in my daily reading. I now knew that as long as I was wise in what I said, I would be shielded by the power of God.
I was learning, that even, so far from home, I could depend on God’s guidance and protection, and it stood me in good stead for the following twenty years. I never went out to embarrass anybody. Neither did I at any time deliberately flaunt any rules or regulation. Yet there were times when I had to ignore those same rules and regulations to follow the direction God was guiding me through.
It is so easy to try and fit into the surroundings and try to fit in where you can be accepted. This is so true when you go to a strange and foreign environment. It is at those times that it is essential to hold on tightly to the truth we have learned and experienced.
Lesson
When God said “Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.” (Heb.13:5) he meant it. He goes with us regardless of where we go, and when he has given us work that causes us to travel, well, he just travels with us. We are NEVER out of God’s sight.
To FOLLOW this blog, go to the About page and put in your e.mail.
Not Just Writing 