About a month before I found out about the World Race I prayed a very bold and somewhat foolish prayer. I asked God to take me to a place where my flesh was screaming, but my spirit was more alive and strengthened than ever. I don’t think I realized the consequences of such a prayer until God started taking me to that place. Africa has been that place for me, but not for the reasons you would think. It’s not because of the squatty potties or the bucket showers, or because it’s to hot outside. (Actually it’s pretty cold where we are staying here in Kachibora.) It’s not because of the food (which is really good by the way) or because of the people (who are in fact the most joyful, beautiful people I have ever met). The reason my flesh is screaming here is because this is where I declared war against myself. I decided it was time to battle against the part of myself that wants to be a pessimist, that wants to be selfish, proud, self-conscious, annoying, childish, inpatient, foolish, needy for attention, and the list goes on. I’m learning to stand-up to myself and deny the desires of this corrupt identity that has defined me for years so that I can finally step into my true identity in Christ. And let me tell you something, this pisses my flesh off! Lol But you know what, as much as it sucks sometimes and despite the fact that I give in sometimes, it’s all more than worth it because when I choose to say no to me, I’m saying yes to Him. As I decrease, God increases in me. As I die to that old identity, my spirit is strengthened and I start to bear fruit. So in the end I’m grateful I prayed that foolish prayer.
But like I said, I just declared war. I haven’t won yet. There are many battles ahead of me and I can’t imagine a better or safer place to deal with myself in this way than here on the World Race. Here I’m surrounded by a great community of people who truly care about me and aren’t afraid to push out of my comfort zone. That’s exactly what I need right now. That is why I’m asking you to please consider being one of my financial supporters. I now only have 3 days left in order to raise the $4500 I need in order to meet my next deadline and not be sent home. Yes, your support will help me reach those in need around the world, but it will also help me to gain the victory over my hardest opponent, myself. Then I will be able to walk in the fullness of what God has for me, and who knows how many lives I will be able to reach then right! : )
