I recall my grandparents, who lived over 2,000 miles away, coming to visit my family when I was a child. We had such a great time with each other, especially as we rarely got to see each other. We packed our days full of time and activities with each other. It was so difficult, at the end of their visit, to say good-bye. There were many tears as we held them close to our hearts and didn’t know when we would see them again. Yet, we were so grateful for the time that we had with each other.
The GNIM board has the exact same feelings as we part ways with Fourth Man Eagle International Ministries Inc. (FMEIMI) in the Philippines, as of July 1. This decision has not been made lightly. We have struggled for four years to gain regular financial support for the FMEIMI project since it sits at below 5% of their budget. For some reason unknown to us, God has not prospered this effort. We are trusting God that He has other plans for this ministry, whether that is financial support from the indigenous Filipino churches or another ministry. God alone knows the future, but we know that the future holds hope, and God will walk with both GNIM and FMEIMI.
Another factor in parting ways is that our vision and aim is refining. GNIM’s focus of ministry is firmly based in the Golden Triangle (where Thailand meets Myanmar). We now have full-time missionaries in this region, working side-by-side with our partners to counter human trafficking and catalyze community transformation through the Good News of Jesus Christ. Following God’s leading, the GNIM board has made it clear they want to focus and expand on ministry in Thailand and Myanmar. Even if there is an equal need in the Davao, Philippines for ministry outreach and Spirit-led community transformation, we do not sense God is calling GNIM to expand ministry in the Philippines.
We sincerely wish FMEIMI God’s blessing as it continues to share the love of Jesus to the Filipino people who so desperately need it. We have been blessed to see fledgling churches start and grow as a result of our partnership. Even if this season may be coming to an end, we do not at all regret partnering with FMEIMI to bring the Good News of Jesus Christ to the poor & oppressed. There is good fruit that will last forever.
