The struggle against the enemy is real.
When I got accepted to the World Race, I knew that God would bring me through tests and trials to help prepare me for when I’m away. I’ve noticed that sometimes the hardest battles are the ones that come out of no where. When you think everything is fine and dandy, then all of the sudden boom! You’re world gets shaken like never before. I’ve recently been falsely accused of doing something and have had to go through a very intimidating process and unnecessary discipline. Looking back now at all that God has done for me in the past month is incredible. My relationship with God has grown stronger and having Him by my side reassured me that I was going to be ok. I know that I am who I am because I make the decision to follow and live for Him everyday. Even though it has probably been my hardest 3 weeks ever, this trial was made to break me down so that the only thing I could do was rely fully on God. I guess like the Potters clay, I’ve been moulded and shaped into who He needs me to be. And although I found myself wanting to give up, run away, and an emotional wreck.. the only thing I could turn to was God through prayer. I prayed for strength to help me get up every morning, courage to face the daily challenge and that I could be the light in this very dark situation. Being able to fully rely on God during this extremely difficult situation has provided me with an unexplainable sense of peace and love towards the people I see every day. I’ve been able to cling to some verses that have helped me a lot. Matthew 5:44 says “But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” I could never fully understand why God would want us to love the ones that hurt us, but God has been showing me that His love is greater than anything here on earth. We are here to reflect Gods love to everyone including those who hurt us. This week I was reminded that it’s not going to always be easy, Luke 17:1 says “hard trials and temptations are bound to come..” But in Isaiah 43:2 God also says “when you pass through the waters; I will be with you.” God has also given me James 1:19 as a daily challenge. “My dear brothers and sisters, take note of this: Everyone should be quick to listen, slow to speak and slow to become angry.” But I also need to remember that “If God is for us, who can be against us?” (Romans 8:31 NIV) Although it’s been tough and will continue to be hard, I am still looking forward to all that God has planned for me in the next couple months before my trip. I’m also so thankful for the people in my life that continue to encourage, support me through prayer. I hope God can use me and my struggles to help those around me. 🙂
