Philippians 4:8 – Hope in Haiti: Part 1

Daily Devotional Bible Verse

Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:8 ESV)

Early on, as a missionary in Haiti, I worked with kids and teachers, walking the back trails of rural villages to help photograph students for sponsoring in America. Because of the experience I was allowed a glimpse behind the mechanism of this playground of foreign aid and NGO’s.

I peered into the world of a people who also fought bitterly for their freedom, but were now falling headlong into a new shade of slavery, one much more quiet and subtle. This island of millions is being sung to sleep by a noxious lullaby, one of handouts and lies, empty promises and schemes.

Yet, Haiti remains a country teeming with untapped riches. She is filled to the brim with vast storehouses of wealth, but this native beauty doesn’t come from the outside. The once-famed Jewel of the Caribbean has a secret treasure, and it’s hidden in the hearts of her children. In moms and dads putting their hope in Christ.

Once a people begin to consider the ways of the Lord and reflect on those things that are true and noble, right and pure, lovely and admirable, excellent or praiseworthy, God arrives and we realize He’s been there all along. His peace invades like a conquering army.

Real liberation commences in the heart. Parents begin to look through a different lens as they themselves are loved and nurtured by the Most High. This transformation may not immediately manifest physically or financially, but I’m convinced Haiti will become the Caribbean’s next Cinderella story when her heart is given back to the Lord.

Pray that the people of Haiti will begin to dwell on the things of Philippians 4:8.

Guest devotion by Dan Elliott. Dan is a missionary who sold everything, left America, and started Bibles For Haiti—an organization that does exactly what it sounds like. Learn more about Dan and Bibles For Haiti visit biblesforhaiti.org. This devotion is adapted from “Haiti Ever After,” the interactive online story of Bibles For Haiti. You can see more, here.