It can be really scary to step out and trust God to provide what we don’t have, and for many deciding to do a DTS, it’s the first step in giving this season of life to him.
There may be a number of questions coming up in your mind when it comes to finances:
What if I don’t have enough?
How do I even start fundraising?
If I do have enough, do I really want to spend my money on a DTS?
Trust me when I say I know what it’s like to depend on God for finances. At eighteen years old, I spent the year leading up to my DTS fundraising and doing odd jobs to scrape together the money to fly from Canada to Australia. I was absolutely positive that this was something that God was calling me to do, but when it was time to step onto the plane, I still didn’t have quite enough to pay for my DTS. I flew across the Pacific knowing that God was going to have to step in.
And he did. By the time I left for outreach to Southeast Asia, my DTS was entirely paid off, mostly through unexpected donations from people who wanted to be a part of what God was doing.
This is a story I hear again and again and again. With every wave of students coming through our base, there are more stories of provision that happen. But with each of these, it’s a new experience for that student. It’s one thing to hear stories of other people getting their money. It’s another thing to live through it yourself, not sure if God is actually going to come through.
DTS is a time that is ALL about your relationship with God. How do you view his character? Are you willing to be obedient to his word?
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Trusting God for the money to do DTS is the first opportunity of many to see his goodness at work. He is always faithful to provide for what he asks us to do.
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Of course, we have a part to play as well. There have been a number of times when God has asked me to give something up for a season, approach a particular person for support, or do a fundraising campaign.
There are probably some steps that God is asking you to take in raising or saving money. If you’d like some ideas about where to start, you can check out this article.
When it comes to trusting God for finances, you’re in good company. Everyone in YWAM, including leaders and long-term staff, volunteer their time and trust God to provide. So we know how it might feel right now! Remember that wherever you’re at with finances, you’re not alone and God is able.
Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.
Ephesians 3:20-21
If you’re considering taking a step toward DTS but finances are holding you back, get in touch with us below, we’d love to pray with you and encourage you!