Newsletter June 2023
June 2023
Greetings to our Hungry 4 Him Family and Friends,
I am writing to share about my journey on my most recent mission trip to Kenya. This was trip # 6 for me since 2010, with every trip having its own unique experiences, struggles, and blessings. On every trip though, God’s presence, guidance, and providing were always clear and present. Much scripture tells us of His Grace, His Faithfulness and His Promises to us as we seek His will in our lives and then… as we are obedient to His call on us. I believe His call can be different for many of us as He gives different gifts to different people, but He DOES have a clear purpose for each of us.
He tells us all to…
“Love your Neighbor…” Matthew, Mark. Luke, and John”
“When God’s children are in need, be the one to help them out.”
“Let us stop just saying we love each other, let us really show it in our actions” 1 John 3:18
“If you help the poor, you are lending to the Lord…” Proverbs 19:17 Oh that WE might be able to do anything to actually “Lend to the Lord” is so humbling.
If you believe in the authenticity of scripture, and that it is truly the “inspired word of God” (2 Timothy 3:16-17), then we simply cannot, and must not, ignore what it tells us. Through this trip… AND through the prayers and financial support of many others… I firmly believe that we did love our neighbors, help those in need, gave, provided, encouraged, and shared The Gospel in a way that pleased and glorified God.
Though I may have traveled alone, it was through the blessings of others that “WE” were able to provide much needed food to children that have had to struggle with the effects of runaway inflation and a terrible economy. Food prices have doubled in price from 1 year ago for most staples, such as corn, rice, flour, tea, and sugar. Unemployment in Kenya is nearly 60%, and some of those with jobs are making the equivalent of 5-10$ per day. These people need help, and in some small way, God used us to be His hands and feet. While providing food for a few weeks, paying teachers some back wages, or meeting physical needs is certainly helpful and necessary, the “endgame” is the goal.
By providing a solid education, by teaching a firm foundation of faith in Christ, by teaching honesty, integrity, high moral values, and life skills it will serve these children for the rest of their lives. And in terms of “faith in Christ” it will serve them well beyond, literally into ETERNITY. Monthly support sent by H4H must go into meeting daily material needs, other support has been applied to long term, self-sustaining projects such as buying land, planting, and growing crops. Digging and building water wells and raising over 2000 chickens that are currently producing eggs for the children.
Sustainability in helping is a high priority, even more so than just providing “short term” aid, though BOTH are needed. Ongoing “short term” aid can lead to dependency, while long term, sustainable projects lead to freedom and independence.
My support from family and friends was amazing. Many gave what they could, and some even more. Several people that I did not even seek support from sought me out and gave generously. One even calling me while I was in Kenya and asked,” Is it too late? How can I help?” It was not, and is still not, too late to help and be a part of God’s work in Kenya.
Another powerful blessing and joy was to be able to support some local churches and pastors financially in the work they do. The churches are very poor as the people have so little that they can seldom pay their pastors or do the ministry work that needs to be done. By God’s grace, and by support of others, we were able to meet some of these needs.
There was MUCH more about this trip that is not included in this newsletter however my hope and prayer is that I have shared the experiences that God wanted me to share. Some moments are more private that I will just hold in my heart and be thankful for having been a part of them.
A priority goal now is to work towards some of the sustainable projects that will hopefully bear fruit for years to come. If there is a desire and ability to help, I would ask that you pray about these needs and speak to me, or us at Hungry 4 Him Ministries info@hungry4him.com , as any help, 1 time gift or small ongoing support, would be put to good use.
In closing I wish to share some scripture that my wife sent with me in a card that I opened while in Kenya. I found all of it very appropriate, assuring, inspiring and empowering.
“Do not be afraid or discouraged, for The Lord is the One who goes before you, He will be with you: He will neither fail nor forsake you,” Deuteronomy 31:8
“He guides me along the path of righteousness for His name’s sake. Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I shall fear no evil, for your rod and your staff comfort me,” Psalm 23:3-4
May Peace and His presence be with you all. Together In Christ,
Jeff Meyer
Hungry 4 Him Board member
