Have you ever heard of an industry, crafted by the Devil himself, called sex trafficking? It runs by many names, and slithers in the cover of darkness, conjuring up lies, fear, shame, lust, and death. This shadowy reality would like humanity to think that through fear, it has power and control. However, I boldly tell you that Jesus is fighting for us, and fear is on the run.
Bless my parents for their trust and faithful walk in Jesus name, their example is mighty. I have the great privilege and blessing to have my parents with me in Thailand for a week of ministry, during Adventures in Mission’s Parent Vision Trip. Now, growing up I have always been somewhat of an independent fighter when it comes to spirituality and physical needs. Especially if needing the support and attention of my parents. I never wanted their help, but they were always there, trusting in Gods sovereignty. Which I feel is key in the healing of our relationship.
In the last two days, The World Race has partnered with an organization called “Wipe Every Tear,” and through this organization we are fighting for God’s Daughters trapped in the sex trade. Battling and casting out the enemies schemes of lust and sex.
The amazing part of this particular divine design is that just recently, Wipe Every Tear was blessed by God, and given a beautiful mansion house that can hold 50+ girls. The purpose of this home is to provide a safe and free environment for these women to discover Jesus, and slowly work towards education and a career worthy of their lives. Our entire mission for this week is through a party we are hosting at the mansion on Wednesday. This party is being hosted in hope that these girls can come and be so overcome by the Holy Spirit that they instantly desire to pack up their bags and say hasta la vista to the past! In order to invite them, we first developed a certain level of relationship, then handed out flyers.
Being purely honest, from the very pit of my core, I was absolutely terrified at the idea of going into bars and seeing these women. I had so much insecurity battling my thoughts, my physical state, and even my own shame from sexual sin in the past. Thankfully I have made some hard prayers, and with the backing of an amazing community, I chose to trust God fully even when the only thing I wanted to do was run and hide. Yesterday, after a magnificent and heavenly worship, and the dedication of 30 World Racers and 40 parents. An army of Jesus Christ marched into the to the city of Chiang Mai, following a readied path purged by the Holy Spirit. With my nerves raging, hands shaking, and eyes worried, we split up into groups and searched for these precious girls.
I found that the reason I had so much fear was because I lacked knowledge. I lacked the key mindset that these innocent women, many of which are the same age as I, are no different than the sisters I call my family and friends back home.
The first bar we went into, I meet two girls. Foolishly I forget sometimes how faithful God is, but after the first couple minutes of pure awkwardness, the Lord set His fire in me. We are working through complete joy this week, for there in no room for sadness. These girls are being called home in Jesu’s name and what a glorious experience God is sharing with me!
I got to share pictures of home and family, share drinks, and practice English with Let and May and many other girls in the bar, who at first had come up expecting to have sex with us, by the grace of God this quickly faded as God powerfully ushered in His presence.
I looked into the eyes of these girls. Past their scantily dressed bodies and 7 in. heels, and instantly God turned on the light bulb on in my head and broke my heart. These girls are working to feed their family’s, their children, and to please their parents because they are told it’s all they can do for them. I felt so much compassion and love for them that tears welled up in my eyes at moments, and I wish I could have just hugged them. Proclaiming to them how much they are worth.
After this total 180 degree turn, I said yes to God, and we went straight to the next location God had set before us. Which even more frighteningly was a brothel. This place had pimps, sex rooms, and possibly 20 girls working. We payed for one room and 2 girls, and ended up being able to sing karaoke, share drinks, share food, and many smiles. All in high hopes that they would say yes to our invitation, and come live at the “Joy House” which is the name of the home Wipe Every Tear owns.
With utter confidence and trust in Gods holy work I have learned a great lesson from these girls. God is not limited to the ability of my body or the qualification of my years. He sets forth His kingdom to any and all who walk by faith and trust His calling. I want so much to fight for these girls and to fight for Jesus in my own life, and to give more and more of my heart over to God. I take this step of obedience in preparation and expectation in the mighty foundation God is constructing in my heart and soul. Pouring His vast affection and purpose over my life, and slowly, I am beginning to taste the trust I have been longing for, and the sweetest delight I can only find in my savior.
Please pray for this darkness, and these girls, and my squad. Knowing that God is fighting before us. We are His vessels, we need only trust.
