Being a solo missionary can be extremely difficult and lonely. I know that when I served in Uganda as a solo missionary, I often felt like I was alone in the world without support or member care. It’s also a greater risk for solo missionaries to experience sexual or spiritual abuse, to develop anxiety and depression, vicarious trauma, and cumulative grief. If not educated beforehand, being single in missions can lead to burnout, the white savior complex, and a lack of accountability.
But I knew God had impressed the call on my heart, and I was obedient to go alone even though I often missed the comfort of family and friends. And sometimes when you’re single your sending organization or church can expect more out of you or assume you’ll work longer hours. There are more and more millenial missionaries who are answering the call even while unmarried.
Singleness is the fourth most common reason appointees don’t make it to the mission field or take a long time getting there, according to a Pioneers International report. So don’t let being single stop you from taking that missions trip.
But since then, I’ve come to realize that being a solo missionary has many benefits.
Here are my top 4 benefits of being a solo missionary:
- Reliance on God’s provision: When you’re solo, you rely on God for everything, and it develops an intimacy with the Father that deepens into friendship. You have more time in His presence because you don’t have to share your time with your family. God is near to you. God becomes your comforter, counselor, refuge, father, husband, provider, partner, and cheerleader. You realize that without Him you can do nothing. When you’re weak, He I strong and He is your defender in trials.
- Flexibility: Before I was married, I had the freedom to spontaneously travel wherever I felt led whenever I wanted to. I didn’t have anyone else to answer to. Through my travels, I also grew as a person, and blossomed in self-confidence. I could work longer hours, and open up my home to the community without worrying about a husband or children. This allowed me to be more involved in my local community and church and learn the culture more.
- Friendships: Being solo meant I had more time to nurture friendships both on and off the field. I didn’t have babies to care for, so my priorities were focused on developing healthy and encouraging relationships with other women.
- Time: Being a solo missionary meant I had more free time to engage in my hobbies like writing, gardening, reading, and exercise. I had more time for friends, and to prioritize my relationship with God. I also had more time for personal development, counseling, growing as a person, and self-care and self love. If I wanted to take a long shower, or spend time with Jesus, or talking to friends on the phone, I was free to do so without having a baby or toddler to care for.
So I hope you understand now the benefits of being a solo or single missionary. It is my greatest hope that women will not feel held back in ministry simply because you are single. You don’t have to wait to be married to follow your calling.
And you are valuable even if you don’t have a husband, or children yet. Motherhood is not your only purpose–you were created for more! Yes it is lonely and there are many challenges, but ultimately you will grow closer to God in the process. Remember to reach out for support in your journey through your church or sending organization because you will need help to remain on the field long term. If you need to educate your home church please share this article with them on what churches should know about being a single missionary.
For more content on why being a solo missionary might be better, read my following articles here and here. And download my free ebook on self-care on the mission field by subscribing to my newsletter. Also if you need more support, please sign up for my coaching services.
And as always, be well my loves.
