10 questions with: Warren Payne

Here’s an all new feature on the Castle Publishing blog – we will be bringing you interviews with Castle authors and other interesting people. First off we have Warren Payne, director of OMF NZ and author of the new Castle book Konnichi wa Kiwi about his experiences as a missionary in Japan between 1974 and 2000.

Why did you write Konnichi wa Kiwi?

Over a period of two years I began to feel God was prompting me to write my story. Many people have continually asked how I was led to go to Japan, so when OMF gave me a three month Sabbatical it was a good time to start the project. However, when I began to write the content just came and within a couple of weeks the bulk of the writing was complete. I just felt so guided by the Holy Spirit it was a real joy to do.

What was the experience of writing the book like?

Exciting and yet in some ways a risk that some may not see the book for what it is: a reflection of God’s grace in my life.

In a nutshell, what is the message you hope people will get from the book?

If you allow God to guide you He will bless you more than you can imagine, so tell others what God is doing in your life.

What are you most passionate about?

Seeing people go into cross-cultural mission with God’s strong Call on their lives.

What is the thing you love most about Japan?

The people and the way everything is so orderly and planned.

What is the thing you love most about New Zealand?

The freshness of the air and the more relaxed lifestyle. A very multi-cultural society that is learning to live together.

What is the best thing about being a missionary?

Seeing people come to Christ and built into His local church. When you know you are doing what God desires for your life then cross-cultural missionary work is very exciting, challenging and fulfilling.

What was the hardest thing about being a missionary?

Believing that even when things are not always going as you would like that God is in control. Ministry with people is always a challenge.

What advice would you give someone thinking about overseas missions?

Please read my book, including appendix one! If God is clearly using you now among internationals ask Him if you should do that overseas. Pray for and about overseas mission work in a way that keeps you up to date. Allow God to speak and He will.

What is your dream for the book?

That God will get all the glory and that through the book many will hear God speak, respond positively to what He says then share their stories with others.

For more info about OMF, visit the OMF website. To purchase copies of Konnichi wa Kiwi, contact Castle Publishing here.