"Now faith is being sure of what we hope for and certain of what we do not see."
Hebrews 11:1
For everyone on Q, R, S, or T Squad, we are approaching our first financial deadline since launching in July. By October 1st, 2013 everyone who plans on staying on the field must have $11,000 in their support account.
I have $8,862.
I would be lying if I said I have never stressed about making the deadline. I met the launch deadline in March and probably started worrying about this deadline in April, diligently praying for God's provision. In May, the feelings of worry intensified. Once I went to training camp, I knew I wanted to stay on the Race the entire 11 months. I mean, who wouldn't?
So many people would post praise reports on our squad's Facebook page, telling stories of the amazing fundraiser that brought in thousands of dollars or an anonymous donation of $2000. I felt stuck. Why wasn't my account moving?
I tried all of June to get a point where I wouldn't have to worry come October. I sent out letter after letter, trying so hard to seek financial donations. I hosted a garage sale. I collect almost 1000 items from friends, family members, and even people I didn't know. I had thousands of dollars of materials. Sadly, the turnout at my garage sale was not nearly as high as expected.
Honestly, I was mad at God. Why did people have $2000 anonymous donations and I couldn't even host a successful garage sale? Trust me, I did not try and hide my disappointment from God; He knew exactly what I was feeling and He knew exactly what I needed to hear.
I need to have faith. By faith He will provide for me. Small donations are still donations! Every single donation is someone investing into me. Every dollar is someone saying, "I believe in what you are doing."
I have $8,862!
That shows so many people believing in what I am doing!
After this realization, my heart was free to celebrate with my squadmates. Before we lauched, I saw each one of my teammates surpassed the $11,000 mark, and I was relieved. I knew that each one of them would be able to stay until at least December! They would not have to worry come the deadline in October. But here is the great thing: neither do I!
God will provide by faith. I was reminded of how strong faith is while reading Hebrews chapter 11. It says the word "faith" 24 times and faithful once. It is stepping out in faith that I came on the Race. I knew raising $15,500 would be a challenge, but I have faith.
My Bible has a snippet about Hebrews 11, and one quote in particular struck me. It reads, "Faith…most resembles a difficult race. The runner has his eyes on the winner's prize, and despite temptations to slacken the pace, he refuses to let up until he crosses the finish line."
I refuse to slacken my pace. I refuse to believe I will be sent home. I refuse to lose faith.
With that being said, I have 11 days to raise $2,138. I am not alone, either! As a squad, we have roughly $40,000 left to raise to have everyone stay past month 3. Please be praying for God's provision for me and my squad, and if you feel lead to donate please visit:
https://www.adventures.org/give/donate.asp?giveto=worldrace&desc=For%20Lindsey%20VanSparrentak
God Bless!
