March 2021 Armor Bearer

Dear Faithful Prayer Warriors and Supporters,

Welcome to the first edition of the Armor Bearer in 2021. A few months ago, Michelle and I could not have anticipated that the resignation of Dr. Doug Carragher last November would open the door to missionary service for us and the privilege of serving as the new AFBM General Director. Only God was aware that He had new and exciting plans for us and we are grateful for His leading in our lives. Long time members of Good News Baptist Church, the home of AFBM, we are very aware of the needy mission field represented by our Armed Forces and their families. During my years in uniform, our family was blessed and impacted by military ministries near bases where we served in the US and overseas. Now, with God’s help, we have the joy of joining those who seek to address the spiritual needs of our military members worldwide.

“And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.” Galatians 6:9

The call to continue in our work for God is always relevant, but especially so in light of the challenges that COVID has introduced into our lives and ministries. While we are deeply grateful for the sincere concern and extra efforts by military leaders for the physical health of military members, we know their spiritual health is most important to God. Seeing God’s truth set men, women, and family members free energizes our AFBM missionary family and we will not be deterred in our mission! Thank you for praying for them continually; we continue to see a spiritual harvest.

The work has continued as our missionaries transitioned to on-line church services and Bible studies as necessary in order to continue their life-changing ministries. In locations where on-base access is limited, they use telephonic and other means to stay connected with those they serve. Here are a few specific highlights of what God is doing. One missionary recently shared how her in-person Bible study with military wives is now on Zoom, a transition that extended its impact. Former family members that the military had moved from their area have now rejoined that important weekly event. What a blessing! Another missionary wife was deemed “essential personnel” and allowed on-base access because of the meals she provides to security forces there. One of our missionaries completed deputation in 2020 and is now assisting a local church in its outreach to soldiers and their families at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. Our missionaries on deputation continue to see God bless and work with one recently sharing how two had prayed to receive Christ after a preaching service. God is at work and we give Him the glory!

2021 holds great promise because God is in control! We know our enemy wants to continue to impede us, but we are on the side of victory and God continues to encourage us with spiritual fruit. Join with us in praying that God would increase access to military bases in the US and overseas and that more service members and their families would be able to return to church services and other vital ministries.

Thank you for your important part in supporting military missions. Your love and prayers for AFBM and for those who serve in uniform are making a difference and we give thanks to God for you continually!

On behalf of your AFBM Missionary family, Kevin Brown