Partnership is more than giving toward a ministry. It is joining together to accomplish an assignment from God.

Paul described the Philippians’ fellowship in the Gospel as partnership. Through prayer, giving, and going, believers work together to advance the Gospel.

One person may be called to physically go, but everyone who partners with that assignment has a part in the work and its fruit.

We see this principle in Luke 5. Jesus instructed Peter to let down his net, and when the harvest came in, Peter called for his partners to help.

Together, they brought in so many fish that both boats were filled. Peter received the instruction, but his partners shared in the harvest.

That same principle is at work today in Ukraine.

One of the most effective ways we have been able to serve there is by strengthening local pastors who are already faithfully ministering in their cities and villages.

They know their communities. They understand the needs of their people and know how to get resources where they can make the greatest difference.

After years of war, many of these pastors have also faced tremendous physical, mental, and spiritual exhaustion.

The Lord gave direction to provide retreats where they could step away for a time, rest, receive practical care, worship, spend time in the Word, and rebuild their faith, hope, and love.

This was about more than preaching another message to them. It was about demonstrating the love of God.

John 3:16 tells us that God loved, so He gave.

When Jesus asked Peter if he loved Him, His instruction was, “Feed My sheep.”

Love gives.
Love strengthens.
Love encourages.

Love helps people continue when circumstances are telling them to quit.

Through partnership, that love has taken practical form in Ukraine.

Medical supplies have been provided. Vehicles have been repaired. Transportation and resources have reached frontline pastors.

Pastoral retreats have provided needed refreshing. The Word has been taught, and prayer and support have continued even in dangerous circumstances.

These are not simply resources being provided.

They represent pastors strengthened, people protected, lives touched, and souls brought to Jesus.

Every one of us has a place in that work.

Jesus said He is the Vine and we are the branches.

Some are called to go. Some preach. Some pray. Some give. Some provide the practical resources that make the work possible.

When each of us takes our place, we work together to accomplish God’s assignment.

Partnership means we are in this together.

Those who send have a part with those who go, and together we share in the harvest God produces.