Field Work
DEBBIE TINGLEY’S STORY
A Journey That Became a Calling
What began as a seven-year succession of short-term mission trips evolved into a two-year partnership with the Integrated Tribal Development Foundation in Thailand. What was initially a temporary assignment has now turned into five years of life and ministry here. Along the way, I’ve faced everything from a global pandemic, which temporarily brought me back to the U.S., to a home flood, an earthquake, and several unexpected adventures. Through it all, God has proven Himself to be both good and faithful.
He has surrounded me with a strong, trusted community, sustained me with resilience, and
continually reminded me—especially in the valleys—that His purposes far exceed my own
plans. What I once saw as a short-term calling has become a lifelong mission, and I am more
committed than ever to walking alongside the beautiful people I’ve come to love.
Equipping, encouraging, empowering
My days are filled with equipping women through micro-enterprise training, introducing new
skill sets that enhance their ancestral weaving crafts, and encouraging them spiritually and
emotionally. God has gifted me with a connector’s spirit, an animated and quirky personality, and most of all, a heart that simply loves — because He first loved me. I’m here not just as a teacher or a facilitator, but as a friend and fellow sojourner.
Beyond economic empowerment, we gather regularly for prayer and visit homes in need of
spiritual encouragement. These moments — sitting on woven mats, holding hands in prayer,
listening to stories of hope and struggle — are the heartbeat of this work. It is an honor to pray with these precious women, families, and communities. They teach me just as much as I hope to offer in return.
Sharing his love, living his hope
Sharing the love language of Jesus — the deep, patient, unconditional love He has cultivated in me — is the greatest honor of my life. The relationships I’ve built here are rich, real, and
treasured. They open doors to share the gospel when He leads, and remind me daily that people everywhere simply long to be seen, heard, and valued.
I am humbled and so grateful for the loving community God has placed around me. I truly could not have done this without the many friends, family, and partners He has hand-picked to walk alongside me. They all are an integral part of this journey, and I thank each one with all my heart. As I look ahead to what’s next, I do so with joy and expectation. I know this next chapter will be full of wonder, purpose, and promise. Come join me — and be part of this hope-filled adventure!
Debbie’s blog
Hands to Heart Blog
Weaving and dying cotton into beautifully crafted goods has been a piece of the culture of the Northern Hill Tribes in Thailand for centuries. It has been one of the main exports of these people groups and a beautiful tradition of the women in these tribes. These...
Love Cultivates Hope & Healing
During our first gathering, Cha Nan Ta and I were in her village of Sala Thai while visiting to speak about the opportunities for becoming part of the Hands To Heart Women's Cooperative. She was shy compared to the vibrant group of chattering women excited to hear...
April 2020 Update
Sojourning… Dear Donors, The beginning of my journey was like old home week serving alongside some familiar faces and the Well Community Church Fresno team, in the Lah Hu hill tribe village of Huay Sai Luang. For all of us, it was the first time to complete...