What if faithfulness sometimes looks like stepping back from danger? Our guest, Louise from South Africa, invites us into a brave, honest look at suffering, risk, and the mission of God. After serving in the Middle East and enduring a kidnapping that took her husband’s life, she brings a rare mix of lived experience, biblical depth, and practical wisdom that equips workers and churches to serve wisely among unreached peoples. We start by separating two often-confused ideas: the theology of suffering all Christians should expect, and the theology of risk that fits beneath it. Louise walks us through Scriptures that frame risk as a spectrum, then shows how discernment governs when we move toward threat and when we withdraw. With stories of Paul’s escape, Jesus’ timing, and Joseph’s flight, she dismantles the myth that courage always charges forward. The anchor points are simple and strong: God is sovereign, he selects and directs, and our aim is worship. From there, we get concrete. Spiritual formation comes first, not as a slogan but as the well that feeds everything else. Louise shares how daily intimacy with Jesus quietly led her family to take life-saving steps before crisis struck—from legal documents for their kids to scenario planning and training. We map out practical considerations for teams and families: identity risks tied to nationality and gender, local hazard profiles, duty of care, and the power of shared vocabulary around risk and crisis. You’ll hear specific resources for next steps, including entry-level risk assessment workshops, deeper crisis management training, and interrogation resilience tools that lower stress and extend longevity. The conversation widens to hope. The early church’s hardships mirror today’s persecuted communities, yet redemption runs through the story even when outcomes are hidden. We talk about trusting God’s unseen work, resisting performative sacrifice, and holding a long view shaped by Revelation’s promise of every tribe and tongue before the throne. If you’re preparing to go, sending others, or leading an organization, this episode offers a grounded path: love Jesus first, let the Spirit direct your posture toward risk, and prepare well so your presence can last and your witness can shine. If this resonates, share it with a teammate or leader, subscribe for more thoughtful conversations, and leave a review to help others find the show. What’s one step you’ll take this week to deepen your preparation and your prayer? Resources: Crisis Response Network Crisis Consulting International Anna Hampton THEOLOGY OF RISK We want to hear from you! As always if you have in questions, comments, or ideas for future episodes please email us and let us know at podcast@world-outreach.com Thanks for listening! Connect with us on Facebook or Instagram for regular updates. Or visit our website footer to sign-up to receive inspiring content in your inbox.
