Debrief was in a beautiful backpacker’s hostel in Nelspruit, South Africa, located on the border of a nature reserve. The pace was comfortable and rustic, surrounded by animals and plants. I valued the time to think, journal, and share with each other (the entire squad was there so we had different experiences to share) about our first month on the race. It was also enjoyable to spend more alone time with God, enjoying my squad, and occasionally using the Internet.
While I was there I learned about following God’s direction even when I am afraid of it or can reason it away. There were times God asked me to share with the squad or pray for the squad or say something to people that was outside my comfort zone. It was cool to see conformation of God’s leading and have opportunities to step out and risk following Him in these ways. I’m excited to become more discerning and bold as I follow Him.
In our sessions we were reminded who we are in Christ. In Him we are no longer called sinners nor under shame. We were all encouraged to live fully in who He has uniquely made us to be, conforming to Christ’s image and not what anyone else wants us to be. Each one of us is truly needed and valuable for our uniqueness; if we aren’t living out who God made us to be, those around us suffer. Whoa!
I saw God clearly working on areas of my life that I thought I’d dealt with, vulnerable areas of shame and sorrow. Shame and sorrow – nope, not what He wants for us. So, as God says in 1 John 1:5-10, we confessed our past and present bondage to sin that we may be healed. I’d been having trouble opening up with my team, but our vulnerability helped unite us. Whatever issues we expected to turn each other away only drew us closer. Just admitting sin before others diminished the appeal and hold any issues had previously held over us.
One evening our entire squad spent several hours with individuals one after another standing up and confessing past and present issues we then prayed over. It was one of the best days we’ve had. Whatever issue you have, share it with someone who will love you and pray for you. That evening a friend sat me down, listened to part of my tale, and gave me wise advice. I don’t think they realized how much that helped free me of burdens I don’t need. Be like that: care enough about those around you to listen and pray for them.
Most clearly of all, God wanted me to heal from a past hurt that I’d tried and tried to work through. I was at the point where I needed to just let go and stop trying to process it. I thought I had given it all over to God, but He revealed that He wanted even more healing for me. He brought up all the painful stuff again that I might heal completely. How cool is that?!! I’m so thankful that He loves me enough to give me what is best no matter what. God is so worthy of my praise!
Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective. James 5:16
I’m in Internet again! Hopefully I’ll catch up to now soon. 🙂
