It’s the final stretch before the WORLD RACE!! Please don’t ask how I’m feeling because honestly, I don’t even know!! I can tell you that the preparation for this trip has been unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Lots of highs, lots of lows, but most of all, lots of growth. I thought most of my growing would happen during the race, but to my surprise, I have been challenged so much (in a good way) these past few months.
I had the sweetest moment with the Lord a few days ago. I was sitting in my car after my last shift at Chick fil a feeling very discouraged. At this point the Lord has provided 12,000 dollars for my trip and there is so much excitement for what the Lord will do on the race. But yet, I felt like I wasn’t doing something right. All my life I’ve had the performance mindset. With my parents and grandparent being leaders in the church, I always felt like I had to put on a good Christian mask to show everyone how good I was. This is nothing against my parents, they are absolute angels and so wise! Thanks mom and dad for all you’ve taught me!! But no matter how many times a read the bible in a day or how much I prayed or served, I felt like it was never enough. In the car, The Holy Spirit convicted my heart and told me to check my motives. I think we as Christ followers forget why we do what we do. This is why so many of us today struggle with our purpose and having feelings of false fulfillment. Because of my feelings of not measuring up, I also felt like I wasn’t able to hear from God anymore. I was having thoughts like “I guess God is silent for a reason.” or “I’m not smart enough to discern if its Him or not.” These thoughts are 100% lies from the devil. I started asking the Lord to speak to me in a way that was unexpected, and He did. He clearly said to me, “Look what I’ve done for you.” He reminded me that HE is the final measurement. Then on a random shuffle, the song Jesus paid it all started playing and I just wept. I felt God come so close to me that it was overwhelming in the best way possible. His comforting presence is something that cannot be compared. I felt recharged, peaceful, confident and hopeful for this next season of life. All it took was me opening up to God and being honest with Him. He is so generous to give us His peace, comfort and strength because He is the source of all good things.
I hope this encouraged you today. Just know, if someone seems like they have it all together, THEY DON’T. I always have to keep reminding myself of that. Even today. This past week has been a battle with my spirit and flesh. lots of lies have tried to crowd my head and it’s been tough. I have constantly been in prayer, constantly asking the Lord to open my heart and mind to what he has to say. Instead of listening to my flesh and giving in easily.
Evangelism is tough. especially in this broken world. Since being hired a Chick fil a, I always felt like the Lord was telling me to share the gospel, share the truth and encouragement with these people. But it never seemed to bear fruit, and it’s because I was thinking in my own timeline, not God’s. I’ve been hearing a lot recently, that people who are lost, are not looking for Jesus. Their sinful hearts are not inclined naturally to look for Jesus. This makes Jesus even more beautiful. He pursues us even though we are not even looking for Him. This opened my eyes to the parable of the Sower and the seed in Matthew 13. When the truth is given, it depends on the condition of that person’s heart how they respond to it. It’s up to God how he wants to change their hearts. But how can they respond in any way if they haven’t heard. So, I encourage you with this, when you feel upset about someone you have been sharing the gospel with for weeks, months or even years. Remember Paul. He was not looking for Jesus in the slightest, he actually hated Him, and everyone associated with Him. God is MUCH bigger than what you see in someone’s life. You might not ever see a friend respond to Christ in this life, but we will see in heaven!! So be hopeful today, walk in the truth that we serve a RISEN King. So, whatever you do, keep reminding yourself of His sacrifice for you and live like the battle is WON!!!
Here’s a little update on the fundraising! At this moment we have raised $12,316! WOW!!! I can’t even begin to thank God for using you all to support me. It really does mean so much that you are choosing to be a part of my journey! Next! For my Woodstock people, I am holding an event/fundraiser on AUGUST 27th for you!! This event will be at Maple Street biscuit company in Towne Lake! There will be free food and lattes, and an opportunity to hear my story and more about the trip. I will also still be selling shirts and other clothing items to help finish out the $4,083 I have left!! RSVP BY AUGUST 23 for food!!!
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and as always, please let me know how I can be praying for you this week and next!!
