Wales: ‘First-world’ problems

One of my teammates asked how I slept. Sleeping in a full-sized bed after being accustomed to a twin bed, I answered that my bed was "too big." Laughing, he joked that this was a "First World problem."

Catching the view from the castle wall.

We laughed about it, but it made me think about some friends who are serving in Third World countries. I thought about how they had prepared themselves to sleep on the ground all summer. As my mind began to picture how much they were sacrificing and how I was enjoying relative luxury here in Wales, I found myself getting upset.

Then, I began to pray asking the Holy Spirit to strengthen those who are serving in rough conditions. Even more, I lifted up all of the people who permanently inhabit those areas.

Then, I prayed that the Lord would give me the same heart and determination to serve as he gave my fellow missionaries serving around the world—a heart that says, "I will serve my Savior with my all, no matter the circumstances." It was at that moment God pointed out to me that he has strategically placed everyone where they are.

God didn't place me in a village in Africa right now. I'm supposed to be here, serving in Wales, to glorify his name through the spreading of the gospel.

Now, whenever I am faced with a "First World problem," whether it be a bed that is "too big" or having too many groceries to carry, I will remember to pray for the people serving in difficult circumstances, for the nationals, and for my ability to spread the Good News of Christ wherever I am.

William Bowden, a student at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, is serving with Go Now Missions in Wales this summer.