Question
Dear Gramps,
I recently converted. I am 18 years old right now and I have been thinking about serving a mission very deeply. I feel like it is what Heavenly Father wants me to do, but the problem is, I have no money saved at all. I plan on working as much as possible but I don’t think there is any way that I can afford to serve one? What can I do?
Jacob
Answer
Jacob,
The Lord is pleased with your desire to serve a full-time mission. This will truly bless your life as you serve the Lord faithfully, gain knowledge, and serve others.
This must be difficult also, as you have such a great desire, and are currently financially unable to pay your way. In the scriptures the Lord once said, “But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.”
When we are in need of assistance or help we must remember that all things are possible with God. One way we place our trust in God is to contact, or set up a meeting with, our Bishops. Our Bishops can help direct our efforts, and they may also know of resources available within your Stake and Ward. The Church does have a missionary fund that can be accessed when all other attempts at financial resources have been exhausted.
In the meantime, continue to do all in your power to save for your mission, while exercising faith, hope, patience, and charity. The Lord bless you in your honest and sincere desire to serve him.
Sincerely,
Gramps
