That's Right Folks, He Can Sing Too!

If you've been following my blog for long, then you know that last summer we began preparing for a big ministry transition.  We knew God was calling us to less travel as a family, but we were also watching as He continued to use our ministry to touch lives and open doors to new church partnerships. We earnestly prayed for wisdom as we considered how we could both travel less AND continue ministering. Then, as a result of much prayer and discussion, last fall Josh began working to book some ministry events by himself.  The hope was that once or twice a month, Josh would fly to a new (to our ministry) area by himself and do ministry events/guitar concerts. This was a big step of faith in more ways than one. 

First, Josh is a self-proclaimed "non singer"! ;)  He is a man of many talents, but singing just hasn't been one of them.  The big question was - Would churches still be interested in having Josh come share his ministry if he was not able/willing to lead worship vocally and I wasn't with him to fill the role that I usually fill?

Second, if Josh travels further (by plane) in order to expand the geographical reach of the ministry of One Hope One Truth, will he make enough money to cover those travel costs and provide for our needs?  We are committed as a ministry to go where God opens the door, with no financial requirements of the church.  Our income comes completely from love offerings, CD sales, church volunteered honorariums, and a few monthly supporters.  We live by faith, and God is a faithful provider!  The reality though is that we have rent, gas, insurance, food, and a few other bills that have to be paid and this change in the ministry is untested.  We knew God would continue to provide for us, but without any experience ministering this way, we did not know what to expect financially.

Third, how will churches respond to the boys and I not being there?  Will they understand and respect our decision?  Will we lose credibility as a mission minded family if the boys and I have a more "typical" lifestyle?

Despite these questions, we knew what God was calling us to and our heart's desire is to follow our Master, wherever He leads!  So we began planning and preparing for this big change!

Of course, things rarely go as we initially plan and the biggest surprise for us involved what Josh's "solo ministry" was going to look like.  Remember how I told you that Josh doesn't sing?  In fact, if you've seen us at a church, you've probably heard Josh say himself that He can't sing.  But late last year, God began to move in Josh's heart, whispering that God had plans for his voice.  In obedience, he began to study vocal performance online and practice diligently. 

Our Mighty God is full of surprises! 
Who would have thought that God would do two miraculous voice healings in one married couple?!  But that's exactly what He's done.  In 2014, God healed my vocal chords from a injury that was supposed to permanently prevent me from singing. 
Then in 2016, God gave my non singing husband a singing voice. 

At the beginning of this year, Josh and I traveled to Arizona.  While we were there he led worship at three different churches.  The worship times were powerful, authentic, and such a blessing!  By giving Josh a voice, God has made a way for One Hope One Truth to continue it's mission of spreading the Gospel and encouraging believers across the U.S., while at the same time the boys and I have the freedom to rest and settle in our new home!  Praise the Lord!

Since that first weekend, Josh has continued to lead worship, play instrumental guitar, and share the Gospel each weekend!  We are excited about this new adventure and commit to continuing to seek God for the direction of our ministry and our family. 

Still learning to follow,
Sarah