PHILIPPIANS 4:8 LITERATURE GUIDES

George Müller was a common thief, and life to him was nothing more than a game. In hopes of some good laughs, he attended a Bible meeting and surprisingly found it to be the greatest thrill of his life. After giving his life to Christ, he decided that he wanted to be a missionary, and he soon realized that he didn't need to go far to find people in need of the Gospel. His unwavering trust in God for provision, commitment to the Scriptures, and unmatched dedication to prayer influenced countless others and enabled him to help thousands of orphans in unprecedented times.

Gladys Aylward, a determined, unqualified English maid, took a treacherous trek across the globe without the help of any organization to reach China with the gospel. Through an innovative idea of turning a dilapidated building into an inn, courage despite opposition and war, and commitment to the oppressed, she slowly turned the hearts of many people, including the mandarin, from despising her and her God to loving and respecting her and, ultimately, accepting Christ.

Eric Liddell provides an excellent example of an Olympic champion, who left his athletic endeavors to follow the call of God and despite initial timidity, used his platform to further the Gospel. He devoted his life to educating Chinese students and used organized sports to bless many. While living through multiple, perilous wars, he risked his life to help others in need.

Corrie ten Boom and her family, despite Holland's new laws, decided to obey God, instead, and protect His people, the Jews. When the authorities found out, she and her family were imprisoned. Corrie and her sister were eventually sent to a death camp, but even there, God was near and had a plan of forgiveness, redemption, and restoration for herself, the Nazis, and Jews that would be testified throughout the world.

Hudson Taylor wanted nothing to do with his family's faith, but through the prayer of family members, he came to understand Christ's finished work, and he soon ran relentlessly after God's call upon hearing Him say, "China." Despite the bloody war, deadly illnesses, perilous storms at sea, and harsh judgment and discouragement from others, Hudson persevered to reach the people of China with medical care and the Gospel.

Nate Saint grew up with unique opportunities to build, try new ideas, like a backyard roller coaster, and fly in airplanes with his older brother. After suffering osteomyelitis as a boy before penicillin was discovered, Nate decided that he would serve God wholeheartedly if he survived. Never did he imagine that God would use his love of building and flying to take the Gospel message to the Ecuadorian jungle, home of the most savage tribe on earth. As he attempted to befriend the tribe, they took his life, and doors were opened for Nate's friends and family to live amongst the tribe and demonstrate forgiveness and God's love.

David Livingstone was a determined man with a pioneering spirit.  He had a love for science and exploration, but what motivated him most was his desire for the Gospel to penetrate into inland Africa.  He endeavored to develop relationships with unreached tribes, improve their conditions, and end the slave trade.  Repeatedly, he was willing to risk his life to pave the way for further missionary work while leaving a legacy of love and service.