Deciding to Go?

In the next year, more than a million Americans will travel on a short-term mission trip of some sort. Many are looking for ways to learn and grow, to try something they've always wanted to do, or to make a difference in the world. But before you pack your bags, it's important to think through why you're going and what you hope to accomplish.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Be honest about your motivations. Are you going to serve others, or to have an adventure? While both are valid, it's important to understand your primary motivation. The best mission trips are those where participants have a genuine desire to serve God and others, combined with a teachable spirit.

Unrealistic expectations can lead to disappointment. Understand that you probably won't "change the world" in a week or two. Your primary impact may be on your own spiritual growth, building relationships, and supporting long-term missionaries already serving in the field.

Mission trips often involve unfamiliar food, basic accommodations, language barriers, and cultural differences. Are you willing to step outside your comfort zone? Some of the greatest spiritual growth happens when we're challenged in new ways.

Mission trips require teamwork, flexibility, and the ability to follow leadership. You'll be living and serving closely with others, sometimes in stressful situations. Are you prepared to put the team's needs above your own preferences?

The best mission trips are transformative for the participants. Are you open to having your worldview challenged? To learning from the people you're serving? To returning home different than when you left? God often uses mission trips to shape our hearts and priorities.

Good Reasons to Go

Obedience to God's Call

You sense God calling you to serve in missions and want to explore this calling further.

Desire to Serve Others

You genuinely want to use your gifts and abilities to bless others and share the Gospel.

Spiritual Growth

You're seeking opportunities to grow in your faith and deepen your relationship with God.

Supporting Missionaries

You want to encourage and assist long-term missionaries already serving on the field.

Wrong Reasons to Go

Just for Adventure

While adventure may be part of it, this shouldn't be your primary motivation. Consider a regular vacation instead.

To Feel Good About Yourself

Mission trips aren't about boosting your self-esteem or checking a box. Focus on serving God and others.

Peer Pressure

Don't go just because your friends are going. Make sure you have your own sense of calling and purpose.

To "Save" People

Only God saves. You're going to share, serve, and build relationships - not to be a hero.

Making the Decision

If you're still unsure whether to go on a mission trip, here are some practical steps:

Pray: Ask God to clarify His will for you. Spend time listening for His direction.
Talk to Others: Seek counsel from your pastor, parents, or mature believers who know you well.
Research the Trip: Learn about the specific mission trip, location, and organization leading it.
Count the Cost: Consider the financial investment, time commitment, and emotional/physical demands.
Evaluate Your Motives: Be honest about why you want to go and ensure your heart is in the right place.

Additional Mission Trip Resources

Ready to Take the Next Step?

If you've prayed about it and feel called to serve, we'd love to have you join us!

Apply for Mission Trip