S06E12 Unexpected Joy from Unexpected Challenges with Vonna Laue

Modern Day Missionaries

Have you ever looked back on a really hard season on the field, a huge thing God asked you to do, or a big unexpected change and thought, Wow, I’m SO glad I didn’t know that was coming? Because I would have run for the hills!

In this episode, we sit down with Vonna Laue, author of the upcoming book Glad I Didn’t Know, to discuss life’s unexpected twists and turns in the world of missions. Vonna shares her journey, from unplanned moves and family challenges to the unique pressures and joys that missionaries face when God’s plans unfold in surprising ways.

She offers wisdom and concrete ways to live fully in the moment while trusting God with what’s to come. Whether you’re on the field or supporting others who are, this conversation will remind you of the resilience and hope that carries us through, even when the future feels uncertain.
✍️ In this episode, you’ll learn:

• How we can find peace in the unknown, even when life surprises us
• Why it’s okay (and even good) to be glad we didn’t know everything ahead
• How our personal journeys strengthen our calling in missions
• Practical ways we can stay grounded, no matter what life brings
• Tips for balancing structure with flexibility in our daily lives and ministries

💡Questions to Ponder as You Listen:

• Where in my life have I felt grateful not to know what was coming?
• How do I usually respond to unexpected twists—am I open or resistant?
• What stories from my past show God’s faithfulness through surprises?
• How can I stay flexible and trusting when plans suddenly change?
• In what ways might God be calling me to release control right now?

Thanks for listening! Email us your questions at [e-mail]

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1. S06E12 Unexpected Joy from Unexpected Challenges with Vonna Laue (00:00:00)

2. Meet Vonna Laue (00:00:36)

3. Unexpected Twists in Missionary Life (00:01:30)

4. Vonna’s Personal Missions Journey (00:02:26)

5. Balancing Family and Mission Work (00:03:31)

6. Navigating Control and Flexibility (00:05:41)

7. The Blank Piece of Paper Analogy (00:07:22)

8. A Year of Unforeseen Challenges (00:14:28)

9. Encouragement for Missionaries in Tough Times (00:20:16)

10. The Power of Stories (00:22:54)

11. Diverse Narratives and Their Impact (00:23:31)

12. Balancing Structure and Flexibility (00:31:42)

13. Reflecting on God's Work (00:38:06)

14. Closing Thoughts and Encouragement (00:43:33)