Abiding in Christ

Kristy Graham, host of On the Ground with Samaritan’s Purse, sits down with Steve Nickel, vice president of Donor Ministries. Steve gets the opportunity to interact with Samaritan’s Purse donors daily. He has a big heart for the Lord and an incredible knowledge of Scripture.

First, Steve talks about what brought him to Samaritan’s Purse and what it was like to uproot his family and move across the country from Nebraska to North Carolina. Even though it was a huge transition, Steve and his family were obedient and answered the Lord’s call.

As a child, Steve learned from his parents the importance of giving generously. His humble upbringing taught him that it is not about how much is given but about your heart posture towards it.

Over the years, Steve has witnessed many changes in the world and within the ministry. Through it all, the Lord has remained constant. Decades into his time at Samaritan’s Purse, Steve still serves with the same fervor. Steve acknowledges that work in ministry can be hard, but he has remained grounded in the Bible.

“The word of God is what gives us the energy. It is not only a lamp unto our feet and a light to our path, but it is life. It is sweetness. It is honey. It is truth. It is sustenance. It is our very life.” – Steve Nickel

There are many distractions and trials that come in life that pull us in different directions. Steve acknowledges that people can’t do it all, but if we abide in the Lord, that is all we need. Then, the joy of the Lord truly is our strength.

Steve talks about how we can rest in the fact that God is in control. He is leading, guiding, directing, and teaching daily. Instead of putting our will first, Steve says we need to live in a posture of prayer, surrendering our plans to Christ. It is often the challenges that shape us and sanctify us. Jesus tells us to walk in His steps and He will reveal His plan to us.

“If [God] is going to make us like Jesus, how is it going to happen?” – Steve Nickel

To Steve, Samaritan’s Purse is an organization full of individuals who strive to grow and respond with wisdom as more disasters come. Life-long learning is important; however, staff need to be good stewards of energy. This can look like keeping the Sabbath, confessing sins, and taking care of our bodies. He shares this verse in Psalms that has encouraged him.

“The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD, and He delights in his way.” – Psalm 37:23

To close, Steve reminds listeners that everything we do should be for our Savior.

“In all of our giving and doing, let’s give it and do it unto the Lord and He will reward that faithful service.” – Steve Nickel

Please pray that the Gospel of Jesus Christ will continue to go forward in word and in deed. Pray also for those who serve in the field with Samaritan’s Purse. If you’d like to keep up to date with more stories on the ground, please visit SamaritansPurse.org.