OK, so I am not as good at keeping a blog as some people. Wow it has been over three weeks since I last updated. Over the last few weeks I have really been amazed at how God is bringing my group of friends closer and closer. I have been given a glimpse of what God is doing among us to meet each one of our specific needs. Right now we are each going through some transition or challenge. This means we are all growing. It hurts sometimes but it is great to see how when we help each other carry the loads, it is much easier. I believe God rejoices when he sees us building each other up and "....Spur[ing] each other on to Love and Good deeds."(Hebrews 10:24)
The sunday before Memorial Day my friends and I went to Woodcrest Retreat for the night in one of their shelters. It was a great time to grow closer together and worship together. We had a time of worship and prayer which really ministered to each of us. I look forward to the next time we can pour into each other the way we did then. In the near future I hope to get together specifically for the purpose of worshiping and ministering to each other. I feel like we are called to so much more than just hanging out together. We are called to encourage and empower each other so that we can have a greater affect on those who don't know Jesus yet. We are also called to reach out and serve. Thanks to Luke's initiative we are going to be helping at Water Street occasionally and possibly the Millersville International House. Personally I am hoping to also use my skills with Habitat for Humanity as well. Father please use us.Many times I am in awe of who God has brought into my life. The relationships I am building right now are pretty new but mean so much to me. I have never had such deep refreshing relationships before and am excited about how God is going to use all of us together and separately. I am challenged by them and appreciate this because many times that is what I need to avoid complacency in my own life.
Eight weeks ago I started a "Discovery" class at a local church and have enjoyed gaining more direction for what and where God is leading me. My perspective going into this class was somewhat skewed because of the amazing trip to Mississippi I had just arrived back from but I believe God used that trip to help focus my life. I feel called to more service. It is awful how I get so caught up on myself sometimes. Through the class I developed a life purpose statement. I feel called to "Worship God by offering my skills and resources to restore those who have unfortunate circumstances, while expressing the character of Christ". My life verse is 1Corinthians 15:58 "Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." When serving with MDS I felt the pleasure and glory of the Lord. Helping people is so rewarding.
Upon returning from that trip I have become discontent with my job situation. I am not finding my job to be satisfying. Right now I am trying to determine if I want my job to be my mission or if I am to work so that I can do my mission. I find it difficult to view my job situation right now as a mission field.
In my previous blog I wrote about the possibility of buying a house. I had looked at a few but feel God has led me away from that. I don't feel peace to do that right now. I feel like I need a vehicle that is will last me for a while prior to purchasing a home and entering a more financially risky situation. I am praying that God will help me to be content with where I am now and that he will lead me to the right decision when the time is right.
Several weeks back I purchased a kayak. In the last year I have developed a keen interest in kayaking and would like to continue spending time with God on the waters of Lancaster County. I am finding that the times I can spend with God on the water are some of the most refreshing/peaceful experiences.
Right now my desire is for contentment, patience, and surrender. Following God's will for my life is of utmost importance but I am not exactly sure where he is leading me. Some of the uncertainties I have are related to my: job, relationships, living arrangements, and my vehicle. That really covers many different aspects of my life. God it is my desire to surrender each of these specific situations into your hands. Help me to be content with where you have me and be patient to wait for your guidance and direction.
It is amazing how God speaks to me through the scriptures and songs. If I were to write all of them this would never end. However, below are a few that ministered to me today. Thank you for speaking to me today Lord.
1 Peter 1:3-7
"3Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, 4and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade—kept in heaven for you, 5who through faith are shielded by God's power until the coming of the salvation that is ready to be revealed in the last time. 6In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed. "
"But I trust you, O Lord: I say, 'You are my God.' My times are in your hands." Psalm 31:14-15.
"I have learned to be content what ever the circumstances ." Phil 4:11.
Just yesterday in church I noticed a young child sleeping in his mother's arms. He was completely at peace and surrendered to her. He had no worries or fears. He was content all of his needs were taken care of. I thought about how Jesus wants us to trust him with every aspect of our lives. When we do this he will bless us and provide for us. Jesus I want the faith of a little child.
The More I Seek You (Christ for the Nations)
The More I seek You
the More I find you
the more I find you
the more I love you
I want to sit at you feet
drink from the cup in your hands
lay back against you and breathe
feel your heartbeat
this love is so deep
it's more than I can stand
I melt in your peace
It's overwhelming
