Reflecting on Risk
A Guide to understanding risk from practical and theological perspectives
Embedded Files
Introduction
Introduction
Whether you’re a long-serving member or new to Wycliffe, understanding your approach to risk and danger is crucial for navigating the challenges of a global and cross-cultural ministry. Our experience over the years has shown that our faith does not preclude us from danger. As a result of our work, some of us have faced severe harm, including instances of physical trauma and even loss of life, and all of us all have to live with an increased level of risk. Given these realities, thoughtful engagement with risk and the theological implications of living with risk, is critical, which is why this Guide has been created.
Wycliffe's Approach to Risk:
Wycliffe's Approach to Risk:
theological and foundational
theological and foundational
Risk is an inevitable part of serving in both workplace and field contexts, where uncertainty and challenges often arise. At Wycliffe, we define risk as the potential for harm, loss, or disruption that could affect people, assets, or processes.
As Christians, we are called to approach risk with a balance of wisdom and faith, recognising our role as stewards of God’s resources and people. This means proactively identifying and addressing risks while trusting in God’s provision.
Wycliffe's Approach to Risk:
Wycliffe's Approach to Risk:
operational risk management and collaboration
operational risk management and collaboration
Wycliffe’s approach to risk management includes assessing, mitigating and responding to potential threats in a structured way. This approach helps align organisational objectives with the safety and wellbeing of individuals. It also includes contingency planning and collaboration with assignment partners who share similar principles and priorities in risk management..
In many contexts, partner organisations may act as the primary source of risk guidance, providing insights and resources tailored to the local environment. While Wycliffe maintains its own framework, we work closely with partners to ensure alignment and consistency in managing risks. Members are encouraged to remain informed about the risk approaches of their assignment partners and to integrate these with Wycliffe’s expectations.
As part of this process, Wycliffe expects all members to engage actively in risk management by:
Completing personal risk assessments to reflect on their individual context and responsibilities.
Participating in training relevant to their specific assignments, particularly in high-risk environments.
Adhering to the guidelines outlined in Wycliffe's Risk Management and Safety Agreement and the policies of partner organisations where applicable.
These steps promote a unified, thoughtful approach to safety, recognising that effective risk management relies on collaboration, preparation and shared responsibility. By working together with our partners, we ensure that risks are addressed comprehensively and that all members are equipped to navigate their roles with confidence and care.
Wycliffe's Approach to Risk:
Wycliffe's Approach to Risk:
perspectives on safety
perspectives on safety
One key principle in Wycliffe’s approach is the "lowest person tolerance." This ensures that both organisational decisions and individual perspectives on safety are respected. It acknowledges that risk tolerance varies among individuals, and everyone’s threshold for danger is different.
In practice, this means that if the organisation or a partner deems evacuation or other safety measures necessary, that decision is fully supported. Similarly, if an individual feels unsafe and desires to withdraw from a situation, their decision will also be respected, even if it does not trigger an organisational mandate for evacuation. This approach fosters a culture of mutual understanding and respect, ensuring that decisions around risk are made with care for both individuals and the mission as a whole.
Assessing personal risk
Assessing personal risk
What is a risk?
What is a risk?
Understanding how risk might impact you personally is a critical part of preparation. What kind of risks might you face? How might you respond? Risk isn’t just about external dangers - it also involves recognising how high-stress environments can affect your emotional, spiritual and relational health.
Take a moment to think about the following scenarios and consider the challenges that cross-cultural ministry might add.
What do you do?
What do you do?
...if you see an injured person when out and about?
What about in places where you might be robbed or blamed for the accident?
Where do you get help?
Where do you get help?
...if you experience robbery and theft?
What about when the police are corrupt?
How do you...?
How do you...?
...share your faith with your neighbours?
What about when you might be arrested?
What do you do?
What do you do?
...if you have a low income?
What about in countries where there are no benefits?
Where do you go?
Where do you go?
...if you are in a sudden accident?
What about when there is no AA/RAC?
What do you do?
What do you do?
...if your child/ children struggle with anxiety?
What if your place of ministry makes it worse?
Risk is relative and situational
Risk is relative and situational
As you can imagine...there are no simple answers to questions like these. Understanding that so much is relative and situational is crucial when it comes to assessing risk. The perception of risk can vary significantly depending on the context, circumstances and individual perspectives involved. What may seem like a considerable risk in one situation might be regarded as minor in another, depending on factors such as timing, environment, personal experiences and the specific variables at play. Recognising this fluid nature of risk helps in making more informed and adaptable decisions, as it allows for a more nuanced evaluation that takes into account the complexities and unique aspects of each situation.
In her book Facing Danger, Anna Hampton suggests that risk is essentially about a threat that may or may not happen, and it requires careful consideration. This idea aligns with the understanding that so much about risk is relative and situational. When facing danger, the decision-making process involves asking critical questions such as:
"Should I move towards an environment of safety?"
"Should I continue to move towards an environment of danger?"
These questions underscore the importance of recognising the unique context and circumstances of each situation, as the answers will vary depending on the specific risks and the individual's perception of them. Understanding the situational nature of risk, as well as the need for thoughtful evaluation, is key to navigating these complex decisions.
Where would you place yourself?
Where would you place yourself?
Risk tolerance is influenced by individual personality and personal circumstances, making self-awareness essential. It’s important to assess your own comfort with risk, while also considering the impact on family and loved ones. Reflecting on both personal and family needs ensures more balanced and informed decisions.
Monitoring risk
It is crucial to remain vigilant about what is happening around you, as ignoring the signs of danger can be perilous - much like the analogy of the frog in hot water - if you fail to pay attention to the risks and uncertainties in your environment, you may find yourself in situations that are increasingly dangerous and ultimately become difficult to escape.
Faith in the face of risk
Faith in the face of risk
Questioning God
Building long-term resilience requires a willingness to face your fears and process the questions that arise. A robust theology of risk equips you to navigate uncertainty with both faith and wisdom. Consider engaging with resources like Facing Fear or using study tools to explore biblical perspectives on risk. Reflect on these questions:
How does your faith shape your view of risk and safety?
What fears might be holding you back from responding fully to God’s call?
How can you trust God’s sovereignty even when outcomes are uncertain?
By cultivating a theology of risk, you can embrace challenges with confidence, knowing that God is with you in both the risks you face and the growth they bring.
Word study
Word study
Anna Hampton identifies three different Greek words in the New Testament most often translated with the word “risk.”
The three passages where these words are used include Acts 15:25-26, Romans 16:3-4, and Philippians 2:29-30. Closer inspection of these three Greek words reveals several Hebraic idioms describing risk. The Hebraic idioms give the picture of “walking into a place of death; giving myself over to death; laying down my neck.”
It appears that the early Church viewed risk as something we willingly do; those who risked their lives received a call to do so, and risking one’s life is always connected to voluntarily giving up one’s physical life for Jesus Christ.
Reflection - What do you conclude about risk from these passages?
People study
People study
Joab: “May the Lord do what seems good to Him” - 2 Samuel 10.11-12
Joab prepared as best he could, recognising the uncertainty of the outcome, even at great personal risk.
Reflection - How do you balance preparation, God's leading and the reality of danger in your decisions?
Queen Esther: “If I perish, I perish” - Esther 4:15-16
Esther chose to risk her life, trusting God's sovereignty as she stepped up to the challenges before her.
Reflection - How does your theology of risk shape your response to God's call, even when it involves danger?
Shadrach, Meshach, & Abednego: “We will not serve your god” - Dan. 3:16-18
They evaluated the risk and trusted God, accepting the consequences of their choice.
Reflection - Have you understood what risks there are with a proposed location? At what point do you think it would be wise to withdraw from the danger?
Paul - “I am ready to die for the name of the Lord Jesus” - Acts 21:13-14. Paul was prepared to face danger and even death in Jerusalem, but in other situations he avoided risk, such as escaping with help in a basket to preserve his mission (Act 9.23-25).
Reflection - Have you consulted others on your thinking about the risks of global and cross cultural ministry? How do you discern when to move forward despite danger or when to take steps to protect yourself for the sake of the mission?
Concept study
Concept study
The cost of following Jesus
Jesus taught about the cost of discipleship, calling his followers to deny themselves, take up their cross and follow him (Matt 16:24-28; Mark 8:31-39; Luke 9:22-27). Following Jesus involves both trust in his leading and readiness to face the challenges that come with it.
Reflection: How do Jesus' words shape your understanding of the risks and sacrifices involved in following Him.
Types of danger in scripture
Paul experienced both natural dangers and those caused by people (2 Cor.11:26-27). The variety of risks he faced required resilience and discernment.
Reflection: Do you respond differently to natural dangers versus risks caused by human actions? How might this affect your decision-making in the face of danger? How about your relationship with God?
Moving away from risk
At times, people in scripture moved away from danger under God's guidance. Mary and Joseph fled to Egypt to protect Jesus (Matt. 2:13). Paul escaped from Damascus by being lowered in a basket (Acts 9:25). These actions demonstrate that avoiding risk can also be part of obedience and God's plan.
Reflection: How might you seek God's guidance to discern when to stay and face danger or when to step away for protection?
Culture study
Culture study
Cultural Influences on Risk
Cultural Influences on Risk
John Piper (Risk is Right) observes that generations often lean toward either risk-taking or risk-avoidance. Today’s culture, at least in the west, shaped by health and safety regulations, school policies, responses to COVID-19 and broader societal norms, tends to prioritise safety and minimise risk. This cultural conditioning can subtly shape how we approach challenges, often without our realising it. In contrast, the persecuted church today lives with a constant awareness of risk, much like the early church under Roman rule, where faithfulness to Christ carried serious consequences.
Reflection: What cultural influences might shape your natural approach to risk? How can you identify these influences and ensure your responses are guided by faith rather than fear?
Faith-Driven Risk
Faith-Driven Risk
The persecuted church reminds us of the high cost of discipleship in many parts of the world. Similarly, in Israel’s history, Caleb and Joshua stood out as the only spies willing to trust God and enter the promised land, despite the perceived dangers (Numbers 13–14). Their faith in God’s promises emboldened them to act when others hesitated. Faith does not remove the reality of danger but offers the courage to move forward in obedience.
Reflection: How does your faith influence your willingness to take risks for God’s purposes? Are there areas where fear might be holding you back from trusting His leading?
Navigating the tension: reflecting on common statements about risk
Navigating the tension: reflecting on common statements about risk
Some would see the following as myths; others would hold them to be true. How do you view and respond to these statements? What are their implications?
“You are never safer than when you are at the centre of God’s will.”
Reflection:
What are your thoughts on the theology that seems to infer if I am in God’s will nothing bad can happen to me, when there is obvious evidence that bad things can happen!
“The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the church.”
Reflection:
What do you think is the relationship between persecution and church growth? What implications might this have for you and your choices?
“Just keep a positive mental attitude and everything will be okay.”
Reflection:
Gratitude and a positive mindset can certainly help you navigate challenges in the world, but it does not stop difficult experience from taking place. However, when does a positive attitude tip over into dishonesty?
“Faith is proportional to the amount of risk.”
Reflection:
This looks a bit like an attempt to use risk as a way to measure faith. Is this justified at all? It’s possible that some people might be motivated by this belief to engage in risky behaviour as a way to validate the strength or quantify the extent of their faith. How do you see the relationship between faith and risk?
“If something bad happens, it is because I didn’t pray, work or prepare enough.”
Reflection:
Why might people have this view? What does scripture say about this?
Families in risky places
Families in risky places
What to consider?
What to consider?
When families consider bringing children into environments with elevated threats, such as carjacking or the need for sudden evacuation, it can be helpful to explore the unique challenges that children, particularly Third Culture Kids (TCKs), may face. Frequent moves, cultural adjustments and transitions can amplify a child’s experience of loss or make them more sensitive to trauma.
Taking time now to reflect on and evaluate risks your child may face, exploring what balancing physical safety with emotional well-being might look like for them, is critical.
For instance, how might preparation and planning provide a sense of security for children in uncertain environments? Are there strategies that could help children develop resilience while also reducing their exposure to situations that might heighten feelings of instability? By engaging with these questions, families can begin to consider how best to navigate the complexities of cross-cultural living in a way that supports the well-being of everyone involved.
Challenges facing TCKs - some research to explore
Challenges facing TCKs - some research to explore
Research on Third Culture Kids (TCKs)—children who spend a significant part of their developmental years in cultures different from their parents'—has identified several risk factors affecting their adjustment and well-being:
Frequent Relocations and Transitions: TCKs often face challenges related to frequent relocations, cultural transitions, and identity development, which can lead to difficulties in psychological and sociocultural adjustment.
Frontiers inIncreased Psychological and Sociocultural Stress: Both perceived and acculturative stress significantly affect TCKs' mental health and sociocultural adaptation. Resilience plays a mediating role, suggesting that fostering resilience can help mitigate some negative outcomes associated with the TCK experience.
Springer LinkRisk of Identity Development Challenges: Growing up as a TCK impacts their identity and belonging in several ways, including identity negotiation, multiplicity of cultural identity, and pervasive otherness from their passport country.
ResearchGateTrauma and Loss Sensitivity: Due to the transient nature of their lives, TCKs may have heightened sensitivity to loss and trauma, impacting emotional well-being.
Middlesex University RepositoryImportance of Resilience: Resilience acts as a buffer against negative mental health outcomes, helping TCKs adapt more successfully across transitions.
Springer LinkProtective Role of Family Functioning: Strong family dynamics and support systems are essential for TCKs, providing stability and aiding in coping with the challenges of their unique upbringing.
ERICNeed for Support Networks: Effective support systems, both within the family and externally, help TCKs manage stress and foster better adjustment.
ERIC
These findings underscore the importance of understanding the specific risks TCKs face to develop targeted interventions that promote their well-being and successful adjustment across diverse cultural settings.
What to do - helping children understand risk
What to do - helping children understand risk
We strongly encourage families to discuss risk and what it is with their children. James Covey, SIL's Eurasia counsellor and Staff Care Coordinator, has created a resource for Families in Risky Situations. This has age appropriate activities to help you process risk with your children. He comments: It is important for families living in difficult and even risky places to have a rhythm of conversation and activities, in an age-appropriate way, to equip and prepare their family.
Mental Health - Families in Risky Place - by James Covey, MA, LPC-S
It's not all bad news - when risk is good!
It's not all bad news - when risk is good!
It is important to note that risk plays a key role in helping children develop resilience. Peter Gray, a psychologist at Boston College and author of ‘Free to Learn’, believes that the removal of risk from children’s day to day lives results in an increase in the number of young children with mental health issues. He claims that preventing children from experiencing and managing risk for themselves is responsible for some of the increase in anxiety, stress and depression found in many children today. Learning how to manage risk is an essential part of their development and, even if it were possible, not something we recommend trying to avoid entirely.
Unstructured play
Unstructured play
How structured is your child's play?
Make sure your children can devote more time to unstructured play. Let them take control of what they want to do and only get involved at their request.
Safeguarding
Do, however, pay attention to where they are roaming and check for who might have access to them if they are unsupervised. Teach them basic rules about touch and personal boundaries - what’s okay, what’s not and how to speak up if something feels wrong. Let them know they can always come to you, no matter what.
Taking risks
Taking risks
Supporting your children in managing their own risks can be a valuable approach. Instead of defaulting to commands like “Get down!” “Stop!” or “Be careful!” try engaging them in the process by asking questions such as, “Do you feel safe?” or “What can you do about it?”
Encouraging them to reflect on their actions and consider solutions, like “How can you make yourself safer?”, helps them develop critical thinking and decision-making skills.
This approach not only empowers children to assess risks for themselves but also fosters a sense of responsibility and confidence in navigating uncertain situations.
Explore nature
Explore nature
Getting children outside allows them to engage with the unpredictability of nature, which is particularly suited to age-appropriate risk-taking.
The natural world provides opportunities for children to explore, experiment, and navigate challenges in a way that feels organic and open-ended.
Let them take the lead—whether it’s climbing a tree, splashing in a muddy puddle, or balancing on uneven terrain.
By giving them the freedom to guide their own play, you will help them grow in independence, as well as foster creativity and enable them to form a healthy relationship with risk in a safe and supportive environment.
Celebrate the process
Celebrate the process
Acknowledging a child’s effort in navigating risks helps them focus on learning and problem-solving rather than fearing failure or seeking only success.
Instead of reacting with fear or frustration - such as saying, “I can’t believe you did that, why are you trying to scare me?” - try highlighting their approach: “I like how you held on tight with both hands; I could see you carefully considering what to do next.”
Praising their process reinforces their effort and decision-making skills, showing that you value their thoughtful approach rather than just the outcome.
This helps them develop resilience, confidence, and a positive mindset toward taking risks.
Evaluating and managing risk
Evaluating and managing risk
Managing risk effectively requires intentional evaluation and planning. This involves identifying potential dangers, analysing their likelihood and severity and determining appropriate responses. A well-managed risk is one that has been thoughtfully considered and addressed with practical steps to mitigate harm while still allowing for the pursuit of the mission.
When evaluating risk, it can be helpful to use a structured approach, such as a general risk assessment for broader contexts and a personal risk assessment tailored to your specific circumstances.
General risk assessments focus on external factors, such as environmental hazards, security threats, or logistical challenges
Personal risk assessments delve into how these risks intersect with your individual vulnerabilities, resources, and thresholds for danger.
This dual approach ensures that risks are considered comprehensively and equips you to take practical, informed actions that balance safety with the demands of your role. Use the tools provided in this guide to structure your assessments and create actionable plans.
General risk assessment
General risk assessment
How to Assess General Risk
How to Assess General Risk
When planning to visit a location, assessing the overall risk is essential. Use the following steps to evaluate potential risks effectively:
Start with UK Foreign Travel Advice
Begin by consulting the UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) travel advice. Look at the summary section and use the risk map provided (if available) to establish the FCDO’s assessment of the area.If the country has no map or overall risk assessment, refer to Wycliffe's Levels 1 and 2 below for guidance.
Understand Wycliffe’s Four Risk Levels
Wycliffe categorises locations into four risk levels based on FCDO guidance:Level 1: Locations with little or no additional risk. Examples include Europe, Australia, New Zealand, the USA, or Canada. These countries often lack an FCDO map or overall risk assessment.
Level 2: Locations identified as green on the UK government’s map. These areas are considered generally safe for travel.
Level 3: Locations identified as orange, where the FCDO advises against non-essential travel. Many locations Wycliffe members visit may fall into this category.
Level 4: Locations identified as red, where the FCDO advises against all travel due to high risk.
Consider In-Country Advice
While the FCDO advice is an excellent starting point, it may not fully align with Wycliffe’s unique concerns or operational realities. For instance:Some locations may be considered sensitive by Wycliffe even if the FCDO does not flag them.
Wycliffe might authorise travel to areas where the FCDO advises against it, based on specific assessments or mission requirements.
Seek Additional Guidance if Needed
Use the FCDO advice as a baseline but ensure your evaluation considers all relevant factors. If you are unsure or need further assistance, contact Wycliffe for guidance. Risk assessment is a collaborative process, and seeking support can help ensure comprehensive and informed decisions.
This structured approach provides a clear pathway to evaluating general risk while considering both external advice and the unique context of Wycliffe’s work.
Personal risk assessment
Personal risk assessment
How to assess personal risk
Use this checklist to assess your preparedness and identify areas to address before moving to or operating in a new environment. Talk to your People Care Coordinator or Line Manager if you are unsure where to find answers to some of this information.
1. Cultural Adaptation
☐ Have I researched the key cultural norms and customs?
☐ Am I prepared to adapt my behaviour to align with local expectations?
☐ How will I avoid cultural misunderstandings?
2. Legal Compliance
☐ Do I understand the local laws (e.g., residency, work, property ownership)?
☐ Are my legal documents (wills, contracts, etc.) up to date and compliant with local regulations?
3. Healthcare
☐ What is the quality and accessibility of healthcare in the area?
☐ Do I have adequate health insurance?
☐ Are there specific health needs for myself or my family to address?
4. Financial Stability
☐ How does the cost of living compare to what I’m used to?
☐ Have I updated my budget for this new location?
☐ What financial safeguards can I put in place to protect savings and investments?
5. Safety
☐ What are the main safety risks (e.g., crime, political instability, natural disasters)?
☐ Have I developed an emergency plan?
☐ Is my home secure?
6. Social Integration
☐ How can I build a support network (e.g., locals, expatriates)?
☐ Are there groups or communities that can help me feel at home?
7. Education (if applicable)
☐ How does the local education system differ from what my children are used to?
☐ What resources are available to support my children academically?
8. Communication
☐ Are there language barriers I need to address?
☐ Is the local technology infrastructure reliable?
☐ Do I have tools to stay connected and ensure online security?
This checklist simplifies the process, helping you systematically evaluate key areas of risk and prepare for a successful transition.
WHAT WYCLIFFE ASKS YOU TO DO
WHAT WYCLIFFE ASKS YOU TO DO
On joining Wycliffe and every 5 years afterwards:
After working through this Guide, sign the Risk Management and Safety Agreement
Members should complete a Trip Itinerary on Workday (Menu> Personal Information> Travel Tracking) and Staff should complete a Staff Travel Form.
If you are travelling to a Level 3 or Level 4 Area (see information above on General Risk Assessment where Wycliffe's four risk levels are explained):
Ensure you complete:
i) a general risk assessment (following relevant partner organisation procedures)
ii) a personal risk assessment.
In addition, communicate with family and supporters
Discuss risk, particularly when you are entering a new assignment, with:
Your sending church and prayer support
Your family and friends
and share your travel and related concerns with them at regular intervals.
Resources
Resources
Explaining the terms
Explaining the terms
Danger refers to the potential harm or threat associated with that event, and this too will change based on your personal situation and the wider context.
Risk refers to the probability of an adverse event occurring, such as harm, loss or negative outcomes from a particular action or situation. It involves uncertainty about what might happen and the possibility of facing undesirable results, and will of course depend on where you are serving and the current socio-political situation at any given time.
Managing risk refers to what we call contingency planning. This involves understanding potential problems and taking steps to reduce or handle them.
Suffering refers to physical, emotional and/or psychological pain, distress or hardship. It often involves a sense of enduring discomfort, loss or adversity that can arise from various causes, such as illness, injury, trauma, loss of a loved one or challenging life circumstances. Suffering can be acute, with intense but short-lived effects, or chronic, lasting over a longer period. It is a complex human experience that can impact a person's well-being, relationships, and overall quality of life.
Theology refers to the study of God and religious beliefs. It looks at what people believe about God, how these beliefs shape their lives and how they understand spiritual truths.
Theology of Risk refers to the questions that are raised when we find ourselves in the space between being safe and being in danger. Risk overlaps with suffering, but is focused on the possibility rather than the actuality of an adverse event.
Wycliffe Documents
Wycliffe Documents
Wycliffe's Risk Management and Safety Agreement
Risk assessment for individual travel
This google doc has been created for the Wycliffe office team. It may be a useful resource if you are starting from scratch.
Books, articles, blogs, google sites and podcasts
Books & articles
Anna Hampton - Facing Danger: A Guide Through Risk (2nd ed.) - explores what is a theology of risk
Anna Hampton - Facing Fear: The journey to mature courage in risk and persecution - discusses what an anti-fragile faith looks like
Kate McCord - Why God Calls Us To Dangerous Places - Weaving together Scripture, her story, and stories of both those who go and those who send, Kate considers why God calls us to dangerous places and what it means for all involved.
Kate McCord - Farewell, Four Waters - one aid worker's sudden escape from Afghanistan (McCord); a novel, written by a Christian, based on real events in 2008 that explores the issues of risk and decision making.
John Piper - Risk is Right - focuses on the joys of a faith-filled and seriously rewarding life of Jesus-dependent abandon!
David Robson - How to teach children about risk - an article from the BBC about how children develop the skills to manage risk
Tom - Smartkidz - Why is risk so important for child development? - an article, including some of the recommendations in this Guide, for developing risk management skills in children.
Blogs
A Life Overseas - written by a team of writers who say 'A Life Overseas provides a place of online connection for Christ-following missionaries and humanitarian aid workers living in foreign countries. As a team of writers who have logged years of overseas experience ourselves, we want to create an online space where expats of many nations come together to interact, encourage, and find a community that ‘gets it.’'
Google sites
Families in Risky Situations - James Covey has created a google site for families to discuss risk with their children of all ages.
Podcasts
Shoptalk - there are a number of episodes in this podcast that cover issues related to mental health, including an interview with Anna Hampton in 2022. James and Brandi work with a partner organisation and have a good understanding of the challenges that cross-cultural workers face.
Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid, for I am with you...
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