I have put this blog off for a few days because I honestly don’t know where to start. I just spent 10 days living in a tent (most nights). I just spent 10 days with people who started as strangers and ended as my family. I just spent 10 days eating food from regions all around the world. Most importantly, I just spent 10 days getting to know the Lord and the Holy Spirit in ways that I didn’t think were possible for me.
Before training camp I struggled a lot with shame and unworthiness. I was really good at “faking” the connection I had with God. Well at camp we basically had a whole day focused on shame. My reaction to this.. “Ha ha God, very funny.” We had the opportunity to get in small groups and share our stories and the shame in our lives. Being vulnerable is not easy. But let me tell you, the freedom that comes from sharing and bringing your shame to the light is so INCREDIBLE and WORTH IT.
Sharing once made me want to share again and again- and I did. The enemy can do a really good job at making you feel isolated and alone when you have a secret living in the dark. Bringing that to light is an invitation for the Lord to heal you and forgive you. There is no grudge from God. He isn’t upset with your sin, but happy that you came to him!
So… What happened at Training Camp?
I was vulnerable
Chains were broken
I found freedom
I heard the Holy Spirit
I learned I was worthy
I gained 36 brothers and sisters
and
I was affirmed in my calling to leave my comfortable life for 11 months and travel the world to share the love of God!
Coming into camp I didn’t think anyone had a story like me. I WAS WRONG. God was so faithful in putting people in my life during camp who could relate and encourage me in my story. I just want to encourage anyone who has shame in their life or a story to share, to find someone you trust and share it! It may not be easy, but I promise you its worth it. Life is so much better when it’s fully lived in the light!
So… What’s next?
I have 2 months at home before I leave for the Race. My next deadline is December 18th and I need to have $10,000 raised! I am about $3,000 away from that goal. I would really appreciate it if you considered partnering with me and supporting me financially! If you are interested, you can click the “support me” tab on the top or left side of the page. You can also send a check to Adventures in Missions. (Just ask me for the address if you are interested in sending a check.) This may seem like a lot of money to us, but it’s just a drop in the bucket for the Lord. I am trusting in him!
Thank you so much for reading and the continued prayers for my squad, team, and I! Please don’t hesitate if you have any questions for me (:
God Bless,
Emily
I have also included a little video so you all can get a glimpse of my training camp experience! Enjoy!
