What next, Lord?
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How we did it
After completing a major church building project known as Omega One, the leaders of Asokoro Foursquare Gospel Church in Nigeria, gathered to prayerfully discern God’s next move. Their hearts were stirred by the story of Obadiah (1 Kings 18), a man who risked everything to hide and feed 100 prophets during a dark time. This biblical example sparked the birth of Omega Project Two – a vision to provide a modest “bread and water” monthly support for missionaries serving in some of the world’s most challenging and overlooked places. The church has since become a powerful example of how local believers are financing missions in ways that inspire the entire continent.
Possibilities with God
What started as support for a handful of missionaries quickly grew. At its height, the project was caring for nearly 300 missionaries across four continents – each receiving about $100 a month. The engine behind this generosity was the local church members who, despite their own challenges, gave joyfully as partners with God in his global mission.
Giving and stewardship
What makes OMAN extraordinary is its foundation. There are no foreign donors or giant grants – only the faithful giving of everyday believers. Every Sunday, missions giving is woven into the identity of the church. “You can’t separate us from missions,” says senior pastor, Rev. Julius James Msheliza. “It’s who we are.”
The church created a clear policy that prioritizes frontline workers. A formal application process is in place to ensure transparency, and the Missions Board carefully stewards every gift. This integrity has sparked deeper generosity. “People give more when they know their money is truly helping missionaries,” Rev. Julius shares.
Alongside faithful stewardship, teaching on the biblical call to missions has cultivated a culture where giving is seen as planting seeds for eternity. Missions is no longer a programme; it’s the heartbeat of the church.
Support that speaks
For missionaries like Stephen, OMAN’s support has been life-changing. “I remember the day the Foursquare Asokoro Church reached out and said, ‘We want to support you.’ They became the first Nigerian church to pray for me and support financially. In a world where many missionaries rely heavily on foreign aid, this was more than money – it was affirmation, empowerment, and a tangible sign that God’s people in Africa cared.”
Local believers are financing missions.
OMAN is a testament to the rising African Church taking ownership of God’s global mission. The continent is no longer just a sending field but a sending source that finances and empowers its own workers. Economic hardship is no longer a barrier but a backdrop against which faith shines even brighter. The gifts may be small, but the faith behind them is mighty.
Rise to the occasion
To the Church across Africa: this is our moment to rise and lead in missions. Embed missions giving in your church culture so it becomes a regular act of worship – not a once-in-a-while appeal. Build trust through transparent and wise stewardship. Equip your people with the biblical vision for missions and show them the eternal impact of their generosity.
God delights in multiplying mustard seeds of faith. No gift is too small when given with a heart fully surrendered. The African Church has the power and creativity to send and support its missionaries. Let us take courage from Asokoro’s story and say, “Yes, Lord, we will be faithful.” Because in God’s Kingdom, the smallest seed of obedience grows into a mighty tree that shelters generations.