In August 2018, I moved abroad for my dream job as an international missionary. When asked how long I’d be there, I’d reply that I’d stay until I retired or God called me elsewhere. Eight years later, God did call me elsewhere: St. Louis, where my future husband would begin his final year of seminary studies.
I’m serving in a new place as I write this.
When God Calls You Somewhere New
Maybe my story resonates: You recently moved houses, cities, states, or hemispheres. Maybe your new place is a child’s new school or a church committee you were “voluntold” to join. Maybe you’re prepping for a short-term mission experience. Regardless, here are five tips to approach your “go[ing], and do[ing] likewise” (Luke 10:37) in response to Christ’s great mercy.
1. Pray.
Is that too simple? Maybe. This isn’t my first rodeo giving practical advice on volunteering, but each list starts with intercession. Carry all the constituents of whatever is laid before you—you, your teammates, your family, those that will benefit from your service—to the Father’s throne of grace. End of story. Too obvious? Most certainly not.
2. Acknowledge That Serving Might Look Different
What if you’re used to mudding drywall but are asked to lead a Bible story puppet show? Pull out those high school drama class skills. Maybe you attended worship in the morning and then “just” talked to people all day. Your very presence and listening ear are priceless encouragement. When I moved, I tossed out my laminated packing list after a jet-setting season hosting volunteer groups. Instead, my service at this time is best rendered by thrifting household goods for my husband’s and my first place together after the wedding or getting plates for our car.
3. Be Patient Finding Your Groove.
Even if you only have a week in this new place, it might not be until the last day that you discover your hidden talent for Popsicle stick art or finally get little so-and-so to crack a smile. If, like mine, your transition is lengthier, wait on the Lord until you read the right blurb in the bulletin or until the right person approaches you about the right opportunity. Will I join the meal train at my church? Partner with a confirmand in prayer? Babysit for a fellow seminary family with young children? Ephesians 2:10 promises that God has prepared good works in advance for us to walk, not run, in.
4. Plan to Be Surprised.
I’ve met them, the volunteers who know everything: currency, climate, a few words in the local language. And yet, those first few miles on new roads can be shocking. Books, Zoom meetings, and even AI can only prepare you so well. What’s more, plans change on a dime in missions on any scale. My “new place” isn’t even all that new; I relocated to the city I grew up in. Even so, things feel unfamiliar in some ways, and I’m still finding my footing day by day.
5. Rely on as Many Wise Individuals as You Can.
You’re a student of a new culture. Let people who know the ropes guide and help you, whether that’s a missionary host, a church maintenance guy who has worked there forever, a dad whose kid is on the same gymnastics squad, or a barista who knows your usual. Play the “I’m not from here” card. Be curious. Let them lug your heavy suitcase when you arrive at two a.m. and take their word for it when they tell you to try the runny brown stuff with chunks because it tastes like pumpkin pie. In this tender phase, I’m being gentle with my fiercely independent self. My mom baked fresh muffins? Breakfast: check. My sister has a couch she’s not using? Cross that off the list.
No place is new to God. The Psalmist concedes, “Even there Your hand shall lead me, and Your right hand shall hold me” (Psalm 139:10). His omnipresence preceded you, accompanies you, and will remain after you—even in times of change.
And how long will I be here in this new place? Well, until my husband graduates and God calls us to serve elsewhere, where we will follow boldly, knowing whose hand is leading us and holding us.
Scripture: ESV®.
Looking for encouragement as you settle into a new place? Ordinary Lives, Extraordinary Grace: God’s Purpose in Your Every Day shows how God works through everyday acts of service to bless others—no matter where He leads you.
