In this episode, we talk with E.D. Burns about why being deeply grounded in Scripture is essential for missionaries who want to endure faithfully for the long haul. Drawing from his book The Missionary-Theologian, Evan challenges common assumptions about preparation, ministry methods, and success in missions, pointing us back to a Word-centered vision shaped by theology rather than trends or results.
In This Episode, We Cover:
✅ The central message of the book and why theology matters for everyday ministry on the field
✅ The dangers of shaping ministry methods around culture, trends, or measurable results instead of Scripture
✅ What modern missionaries and everyday Christians can learn from the Word-centered lives of Adoniram and Ann Judson
✅ How missionary methods reveal underlying theology—and practical ways to evaluate whether our approaches flow from biblical convictions or pressure for quick outcomes
✅ Preparing the heart to endure suffering, weakness, and hardship without losing joy, hope, or faithfulness
This conversation is a timely reminder that lasting fruit in missions does not come from clever strategies, but from leaders who are immersed in the Word, anchored in sound doctrine, and willing to endure faithfully for God’s glory.
E.D. Burns is the executive director for training and development at ABWE, and also directs the MA in Cultural Apologetics at Founders Seminary. He is on faculty at Asia Biblical Theological Seminary, and he and his family live in a small hilltribe village in Northern Thailand, where he works with training and translating materials into hilltribe languages.
We want to hear from you!
Have a question, story, or idea for a future episode?
Send us a message at kfarran@abwe.org with the subject “Podcast” or connect with us on Instagram: @kyle.farran
Whether it’s a challenge you’re facing, a topic you’re curious about, or just a quick note to say hi—we’d love to hear it.
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Your feedback and ideas help shape the future of Missions Life: Navigating Life, Leadership, and Ministry Abroad!

In this episode, we dive into how the right perspective on challenges can help you develop strength, resilience, and grit—essential qualities for anyone in missions and leadership.

This conversation also lays the foundation for my upcoming book, Godly Grit, where I expand on these ideas and offer a practical framework for building resilient, faith-filled strength in life and leadership.

This is the podcast episode I wish I had before starting my journey in missions. If you're a missionary, leader, or someone navigating a difficult season, you know how easily challenges can rob you of joy. A wrong mindset drains energy and motivation—but a biblical, resilient perspective can turn obstacles into opportunities for growth.

Over the past few years, these life-shaping insights have been like water for my soul, reshaping how I face hardship. They form the backbone of Godly Grit, and I truly believe they can transform your mindset and impact your life too.

In This Episode, We Cover:

✅ How to reframe challenges to fuel growth, perseverance, and faith

✅ Why a negative perspective quietly drains joy and strength

✅ How to cultivate mental and spiritual resilience in leadership and missions

✅ How hardships can become stepping stones to deeper strength and grit

If you’re facing resistance, fatigue, or discouragement, this episode—and the message behind Godly Grit—will help you build strength that lasts.

Sign up to be reminded about Godly Grit when it launches:

https://www.kylefarran.com/missionslife/31-godly-grit-unshakable-resilience-and-grit-for-life-and-leadership-kyle-farran

Stewarding your body isn’t about six-pack abs or fitting into a certain size of pants. It’s about being healthy enough to serve God well, for as long as possible. In this episode, we talk about “Stewardship of the Body” and how caring for your physical health is deeply connected to hearing, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

I (Kyle) share some of my own journey of being flat on my back with debilitating back pain, migraines, and stress-related issues—and how that season became a turning point for me.

This episode connects biblical stewardship with our motivation, and gives very practical steps you can start today in the areas of stress, food, exercise, and sleep.

In This Episode, We Cover:

✅ What “stewardship of the body” really means

✅ Why your body belongs to God, not you

✅ How neglecting your health can impact your “well done”

✅ Finding a deeper motivation than comfort or appearance

✅ Practical starting points in four key areas: Stress, Food, Exercise, and Sleep

✅ Why micro changes matter more than massive short bursts

✅ Why there is no “single solution” to health

✅ A sober reminder about eternity

If you want to serve God for as long as you can, stewarding your body is part of your calling.

Pick one thing you already know you should do—and start there.

Join the Book Launch Team for Godly Grit

Go to: https://www.kylefarran.com/launch-team.html

Show Notes and Links:

https://www.kylefarran.com/missionslife/30-stewardship-of-the-body-kyle-farran

We want to hear from you!

Have a question, story, or idea for a future episode?

Send us a message at kfarran@abwe.org with the subject “Podcast” or connect with us on Instagram: @kyle.farran

Whether it’s a challenge you’re facing, a topic you’re curious about, or just a quick note to say hi—we’d love to hear it.

Your feedback and ideas help shape the future of Missions Life!