FAQ
What is a Goer?
We define “Goer” as someone who crosses some kind of cultural barrier in order to bring God’s love to people.
What is listening prayer?
Listening prayer involves asking God specific questions and listening for how He responds. We know that God is relational. He welcomes not only hearing from us but enjoys speaking to us, drawing us closer to His passions and purposes.
How can I know that I’m hearing from God?
While listening prayer is simple in concept, discerning His voice takes practice. It is best done in a healthy, maturing community that is grounded in the Word of God. We provide teaching on how to grow in confidence in hearing from Him. We also highlight safeguards that aid in the process.
Do I need to be experienced in listening prayer to be involved with InCourage?
Not at all! We equip and train in hearing the Lord’s voice for what’s on His heart for ourselves, for others, and in intercession. Our conviction is that everyone can learn to recognize God’s voice. We have had folks with no experience listening to the Lord come to thrive in hearing His voice. The truth is, whether you are seasoned in listening prayer or just starting out, we’re all on a journey of getting to know Him more.
What makes InCourage Communities a unique prayer group experience?
Through a focus on relationships already established among participants in a group, we foster a safe space in which to practice listening to God together. Asking Father for what is on His heart to encourage and enrich the Goer provides powerful fodder for intercession. When God confirms what He is saying through multiple people, faith increases and community is strengthened.
Do I have to be a part of a group of Goers in order to participate in a workshop?
Our belief is that growing as a group of Goers is highly beneficial. That said, we understand that this is not always possible. Other options in the way of workshops are available. CONTACT US HERE
How do InCourage Communities and InCourage Workshops meet?
We gather primarily via Zoom (or other video chat). With InCourage Communities, we have seen value in Senders meeting together in person and then video chatting with their Goer. Workshops for groups of Goers are available in person. We negotiate with the group about travel and housing costs.
Why is “active, ongoing care” important?
When we began in Fall 2016, we saw that much Goer care is reactionary. When a Goer is in crisis mode, expert support is provided to help the Goer process the crisis and hopefully move forward. These supports are crucial for Goers, and we applaud that they exist!
We see a need for active, ongoing care for Goers. Not only to prevent crises, but to foster connection that deepens alignment with what God is doing and joining in it with Him. That is, abiding in the Vine while connecting with His branches. That’s where the fruit comes!
Digging deeper, one study estimated that 71% of Goers leave their chosen countries for preventable reasons (1). According to other research, a top reason Goers leave the field is because they receive too little care. This reason was equal in scope to what has been historically the number one reason that Goers leave the field: team conflict (2).
We believe that by creating communities of Goers and Senders listening together we can be part of providing active care and reducing the impact of negative experiences for those on the field.
1. Too Valuable to Lose, T. William
2. John Brown University, April 2018