How and when did I practice the ‘Down Payment’ in my life?

The Lord graciously opened my eyes to the concept of ‘Down Payment,’ and I began practicing it in my early twenties. I continued this practice while working as a teacher in India and later when I moved overseas to Abu Dhabi. Even as a mother with the weight of responsibilities and a deep connection to a remote village in South India, I clung to this practice, finding hope in God’s past faithfulness. I have continued to live in this village, sharing the love of God and the privilege of ‘Down Payment’ with others.

Some significant events in which I applied ‘Down Payment’ include:

a. Before I met my husband, I invested nearly 7 years in waiting and praying.

b. After enduring 3 miscarriages and the emotional pain they brought, I continued to practice ‘Down Payment’ for another 4 years.

c. Dealing with psoriasis, allergies, and numerous sleepless nights with my second daughter extended this practice for 28 long years.

d. Almost 7 years into our service in this village, my husband suffered a massive heart attack, and we faced the aftermath together.

e. Our journey as a family, in this underprivileged village working with the school, raised for the kids, battling strongholds of idolatry, adultery, alcoholism, child labor, and other evils, has been an ongoing challenge. Each day felt like an upstream swim.

In various situations, such as inspections, health crises, unexpected strongholds, fears about the future, legal challenges, interpersonal conflicts among staff and parents, confusion, lack of clarity, concentration issues, and unexpected events, I have turned to ‘Down Payment.’

Our village faced its own set of challenges, including suicides, the influence of regional religious music, radiation from the hills, wildlife encounters, and more.

Through it all, we have found strength and victory by relying on God and the eternal wealth and treasures that await us.

The practice of ‘Down Payment’ has been a source of resilience and hope in the face of life’s trials and uncertainties, allowing me to navigate the challenges with faith and determination.