I do have great expectations for this season of my life. I believe that embarking on this incredible journey is going to be life changing and humbling. It already has been. One of the expectations that I have is that God will ALWAYS be with me. Always. Whether I feel His presence right next to me or feel as though He’s a million miles away, He’ll be with me every single step of the way.
When I was in high school, I was one of the leaders for Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) and during my senior year, my friend, Moose, gave me a necklace with a scripture engraved on a shield. This scripture has been a great reminder, especially during my travels abroad.
I realize that this trip is going to be very different from my experiences of living in Europe, but I feel like this scripture will relate to the World Race. In Joshua 1:9 it says, “Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go.”
When I lived in Europe, there were times where I was completely overwhelmed with everything going on around me. Especially during the first few months when I was acclimating to a new language, culture, and way of life, I needed an anchor in my life. I was definitely alone and my rock in those times was God. He always was and always will be.
God is definitely going to put me through the fire and it’s not going to be easy. I know He’s going to show me how broken I am, but through my travels and experiences, I will learn how great He is.
I expect to meet new people that will be instrumental in my life. Whether it’s fellow racers, or people I meet in different countries, I will meet people who will touch my heart.
I’ll learn how to live the simple life. I’m both excited and nervous to set out for 11 months with just what I can carry on my back. I mean, right now I have so much stuff it’s quite ridiculous. To simplify everything down to just a backpack will be challenging and satisfying.
I’m not going to understand a lot of what God is going to put me through, but as Proverbs 3:5-6 says, “Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; acknowledge Him in all your ways, and He will make your paths straight.” Trust, trust, trust. This will be key.
I knew that once I accepted the opportunity to be a racer, my life would change. When I come back, I won’t be the same person that I started out as. And I’m ready. It’s time for me to take that leap of faith and trust that God has a perfect and pleasing path for me!
