April 13, 2026
— Karl Gützlaff · Source: Journal of Three Voyages along the Coast of China (1834), pp. 124–125
2 Corinthians 5:7 For we walk by faith, not by our eyes.
Karl Gützlaff was willing rather to perish in the attempt of carrying the gospel to China than to wait quietly on the frontiers, not because he saw a chance of victory, but because he heard the call of his mission. "By faith, not by sight" means remaining certain of God's sovereignty even during the long process when the outcome is unclear, or when misunderstandings and setbacks are encountered. We often seek God's will in favorable circumstances, yet doubt His absence when we are lost. However, true faith is often born in the darkness where the "end is not seen." Reflecting on ourselves, have we, unlike Gützlaff, hesitated outside the door of our mission out of fear of unknown risks?
Dear Heavenly Father, thank You for raising up servants as steadfast as Karl Gützlaff in history, showing us the weight of faith. Lord, when life is shrouded in mist, when I hesitate because I cannot see the results, grant me vision beyond what I see. Remove my obsession with "results," and teach me to walk with You throughout the long process. Even if my strength is small and my reputation is damaged, as long as it is for Your use, strengthen my steps, so that I am not a hesitant outside the door, but a courageous knocker. May my life not be judged by the world, but by the day I stand before Your judgment seat without shame. Amen.