Lately I have found myself spending a lot of time in silence. I feel like in the last year I had not focused on spending that time alone, as often as I should have. Now, instead of watching a movie or shopping, I find myself constantly sitting on my deck (on the nice days), reading from several different books. If you’ve seen my instagram, you’ll see the evidence of not allowing myself to only choose one. It’s truly interesting how diverse my collection can appear. I have my Bible, some books bye John Piper, a book of Puritan prayers, add some Beth Moore, and finally some resources for dealing with grief. And to add some ‘light reading’, I just picked up my roommates copy of C.S. Lewis’ The Problem of Pain. I have developed quite the problem with starting books, and even a bigger problem of not finishing them. This is different this summer, however. I can’t get enough.
I am learning. And I’m enjoying it. I am hungry. I am hungry to go deeper in my walk with Him. I haven’t felt like this is a long time. I recently was talking with one of my dearest friends on how I really wanted to research into some of the World Religions I will encounter on the Worldl Race. Sure, I know some of the basics. But to be completely honest, just about every mission’s trip I’ve been on: I’ve had to face mostly Roman Catholics, as Latin and South America is primarily Catholic. Immediately, my friend mentioned how our church is starting their summer courses from the Gospel Institute. And guess what? One is focusing on World Religions, and how to be effective in sharing the Gospel. Okay God…you have my attention.
Also, I’ve really been trying to spend time in the scriptures, truly studying it. It’s so easy to fly through what I’m reading, and completely miss the message. So, this week a few ladies in my church started a Bible study on how to study and also teach it. All of my insecurities about being able to be used in ministry, I feel like are slowly fading. I am so excited to learn. I am slowly beginning to no longer worry about “not knowing enough”. Now sure, I won’t have all the answers. And I know I will still struggle with answering some questions. But can’t help feeling God placed those opportunities in my life. He has such awesome plans.
Teach me to do your will,
for you are my God;
may your good Spirit
lead me on level ground.
Psalm 143:10
