While riding the bus to and from language school, I got to know Fatma, a Muslim language colleague. We were both new to France, studying alone, and our friendship naturally followed. The result? Gospel opportunities that God continues to provide, even though we are no longer in class together. Walking the road of missions as a single isn’t always easy, but it is worth it! Here are a few tips I’ve learned over the years that I hope you will find helpful as you look toward this same possibility.

Learn Complete Reliance

To begin with, serving as a single missionary requires tackling a lot on your own. Deputation, language study, and learning a new culture (the list could go on and on) can all feel isolating without a built-in partner and study-buddy. However, I’ve experienced God using circumstances just like these to teach me complete reliance on Him, to reassure me that He is, and always will be, by my side. And I’ve seen Him use them to bring people into my path that I would not have otherwise met—like Fatma. The precious promise Jesus gave us at the end of the Great Commission in Matthew 28, “I am with you always,” is the truth that sustains me every day.

Choose Your Team Carefully

Second, working with a team you trust and respect is vital to your longevity. Very rarely will there be a situation in today’s mission culture where a single will be outworking in a country all on their own. So, as you consider what team to join, start thinking about what matters to you in terms of doctrine and application, ask lots of questions (seriously, a lot!), and remember to enter a new team with humility and an open heart and mind ready to learn what ministry looks like in a culture which is (most likely) very different from that in which you grew up. A mission agency can be a big help to you in this step.

Become More Flexible

Third, build resilience now by doing things outside your comfort zone. Missions, especially as a single, requires doing unfamiliar and uncomfortable things all the time. Learn to face these new challenges with confidence and even excitement by intentionally pushing yourself outside your comfort zone. For me, I choose things like bouldering, solo backpacking, or striking up conversations with strangers in a store. For you, it might mean trying new foods, speaking up in class, or volunteering for a role that stretches you. These types of activities, done on a regular basis, stimulate the brain to become more flexible and better able to handle new and uncomfortable situations.

Don’t Wait!

Finally, don’t wait on anything or anyone except God! You don’t need to wait till after graduation to get involved in your church. Don’t wait till you’ve started a family to get to know your neighbors and learn to share the gospel with them. Don’t wait till God reveals His 10-year plan for your life—follow the one step He’s placed in front of you.

Missions as a single can be daunting, but it is also a unique opportunity to spend your life making disciples. Follow God’s leading—He equips you for each step. Start now, right where you are, and trust Him with the rest.