The question of support for full time workers is a challenging matter on both sides of the fence. I ought to know, I have sat on both sides of the fence and have struggled with the “yes”and the “no”. Tania and I have lived supported by God’s people now for almost 40 years. It confounds the imagination really. It certainly baffles the secular world. There have been times when I have wanted to work to provide for my family and not accept gifted income. But have sensed God saying to not work and do it His way and see what happens. And indeed He comes through on His promise to provide my every need and that of the wife and children I bring along with me. There have been other times when I have been offered a contribution by an elderly woman whom I knew couldn’t afford it. When I have tried to refuse it and suggest she keep her money, she showed her indignation to me, telling me if she chooses to give to the Lord’s work then who am I to refuse it. If I don’t receive it, how can she give to support the Lord’s work. She said “Ian Vail, don’t you rob me of the blessing of giving to God’s work.” Wow consider yourself duly rebuked Ian.
We have now been living like that for 30 years and it has been an amazing adventure. We can say like Paul that we have learned the secret to be content in plenty or in lack. It matters not really because God is in control of it all and He constantly shows His hand in some really incredible ways. I wouldn’t exchange this life for anything as it keeps me dependant on Him. There is no better place to be. Maybe Paul needed an elderly lady like our friend to tick him off and help to see his role in the process of God’s supply. If I could I would send her over but it’s too late Paul is not available. Actually Paul and Clarice are now in the same place.