What Are the Benefits of Missionary Work?
The missionary work that is carried out by churches and philanthropic organizations makes a difference in the lives of people all around the world. Whatever the denominational affiliation, the basic purpose of its mission work is to help those who are hurting in whatever way is appropriate to the situation. There are several benefits of this charitable work that affect the missionaries as well as those being helped.
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Physical
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Missionary work is usually geared toward a specific people group with a particular need. Much of the time, these needs are physical--food, fresh water and clothing. These and other needs usually come in the wake of natural disasters or during times of war. Many people would not have access to basic necessities during a crisis if not for the assistance of missionaries who try to ensure that all victims who have endured a hurricane, tornado or earthquake will be cared for. Families in poor areas, children and the elderly are the main focus of missionaries in these instances. During times of war, missionaries do not take political sides--they seek to help anyone in need.
Spiritual
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Missionary work is often spiritual in purpose. The goal is to bring hope to people through prayer, knowledge of the Bible and a relationship with God. For hundreds of years, missionaries have helped people around the world experience internal peace in the midst of difficult living conditions by living for years in a country and assimilating into the culture. By becoming a part of the community, missionaries can form close relationships and share their personal spiritual testimonies with their neighbors.
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Educational
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Mission work is often geared toward educating a people group. In third-world countries, in particular, where education is often only a privilege for a very few, missionaries are able to teach children and adults skills they never would learn otherwise, like basic reading, writing and math. Missionaries have increased literacy by bringing Bibles that have been translated into the native language of the people they are serving.
Vocational
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In countries that are in perpetual economic distress, missionaries bring the benefit of vocational training. Missionaries may improve the job outlook for people by teaching modern farming methods or by teaching them skills needed for workplaces in their area. These skills may include jewelry and rug making or assembly of crafts to be sold at market. Missionaries bring their personal and professional knowledge to those looking for ways to improve their quality of life and increase their vocational skills.
Psychological
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The benefits of mission work don't just extend to the recipients. Missionaries often report that their lives were positively affected by seeing the results of their labor. They get to see lives changed for the better in practical and spiritual ways, bringing hope to those in despair. Missionaries are able to witness lives being saved because of their medical assistance and quality of life improved because of job skills that they have taught. Those who are helped by mission work have the long-term benefit of knowing that others cared about them during times of crises; hopefully, this will motivate them to help others and continue the missionary vision.
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