So the majority of this blog will be from my amazing father. I was feeling really down the other day, like there was no progress being made towards me going on this trip. I was praying all day, asking God to show me some encouragement. Then I got to thinking about this blog and how new this bit of technology is to me. Here I am, mastering a new skill, pouring my heart out and how do I even know anyone is looking at this?!?
I felt that way all day and at one point said 'God, is it too much to ask for one little comment on my blog? Just so I know someone is looking at this?' The next day I got on my computer and saw the sweetest most thoughtful post ever from my dad. I want to re post it because there is a lot of good stuff in there. It was perfect timing, as usual, and a reminder to focus on what I can do for others, because that is what this trip and this life are all about.
Also, today I got an email from the Head Honcho at work. I left him a message last week letting him know I'll be leaving our program in January to go on the WR. He emailed me back saying "What if I say no? J/K" How great is that? I laughed for about 20 minutes! I work with some really sweet people and am going to miss them and this job.
Below is what my Dad wrote to me:
In Ephesians they speak of taking on the armor of God and the reason we need to do that. One thing it does not state is that there is no armor to cover your back. When we are strong in the Lord, in our own faith in His might, we stand in front of the enemy. The Lord does not call us to turn from the enemy, but to face darkness and evil face first; head on, in the knowledge that He is with us and "if He stands with us who can stand against us." The Lord calls us to prayer and support of each other in His works. Of course that will bring battles and it seems that part of this mission is to turn to Him and to others to support you in prayer and protection. He will provide more than you even know you need as long as you ask.
On the human level it is hard to have the knowledge but that is part of faith. Doubt is a natural emotion and a tool of all enemies, internal and external, but His amazing grace offers a way through that. Remember it is only the SHADOW of the valley and the shadow is where the light is obstructed by something standing in it's way. You can not have the light without the resulting shadow and shadows are created by the light. Shadows offer us an opportunity to look at what is in the darkness with each of us. Not always fun or energizing but if done with the knowledge of grace, it has a way of bringing peace. I am praying for you daily and will continue to do so.
Have a blessed day, filled with light and peace in where you are at.
The Armor of God
Ephesians 6: 10-18
10 Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. 11 Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. 12 For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. 13 Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. 14 Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in place, 15 and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace. 16 In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. 17 Take the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. 18 And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people.
Love to you all and thanks for giving this a read through. If you fell like leaving a comment you know I'll love it!!! 
