It is not uncommon to experience surprises as one walks with God. Abraham experienced a surprise call (paired with a blessing) to leave and move to a different area (Gen. 12:1-5). Moses experienced the surprise of the burning bush, which demanded action by him (Exod. 3). Jonah was surprised by God’s call to preach in Nineveh. Although he initially resisted the call, he did obey when given a second chance (Jon. 1:1-3, 3:1-3). Paul the Apostle was surprised by the vision of a man from Macedonia. Paul followed God’s leading through this vision, and the result was that many in that area were able to hear the gospel message. Cross-cultural workers should cultivate a sense of being open to unexpected leadings by God through his Spirit. Workers can view their lives and ministry as a journey, looking for the unique and unexpected ways in which God works in and through them.

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Those serving in a Muslim context should be open to God’s unexpected works. God may choose through his Spirit to communicate to individuals in unique ways, whether through dreams, visions, conversations with others, or the Bible itself. Christian workers should have an expectation that God will be involved in the lives of others. They are to look for (and accept) his unique work, even in unanticipated ways.