The missionary task is truly a partnership. When people look and see one missionary family serving, they don't realize that many, many people are partnering in the ministry of that family. There is much that can be done with our own abilities, but the things which we do on our own are short lived, lasting as long as we can sustain them. What is done in God's power lasts for eternity. Without prayer, and the empowering of the Holy Spirit, nothing of lasting importance takes place in ministry.
Prayer is the vital ingredient in ministry.
As the gospel is preached, believers discipled, and churches planted, Satan does not stand still. There are spiritual battles to be fought and won. We need a dedicated group of people who will faithfully stand with us, praying for us and our ministry. Together, we form a team. Just as missionaries need dedicated prayer supporters, they also need dedicated financial supporters.