Living with people and having to see them 24/7 can be a good thing. You get to get to know people on a deeper level and you get to share wonderful memories. It can also be a hard and frustrating thing. Constantly in each other’s spaces.
The first 2 months of living with my team wasn’t frustrating or that hard. I mean we still had our ups and downs (because we aren’t perfect) but it was a great time. Then month three hit and for some reason I would just start getting angry and frustrated at my team for petty reasons. I got upset that our house wasn’t being cleaned and that the trash wasn’t being taken out. I started holding in bitterness toward my teammates because I didn’t see them do as much work as I thought I did. It became so frustrating to be around them and to love them well. Then the Lord intervened.
In the most loving and gentle way He asked me to really take a look at why I am feeling these things. What is actually causing all this bitterness and frustration?
I found out what it was. It was Satan stealing my joy and trying to ruin my relationship with the lord and with my teammates. The lord showed me that because I am really pressing into the word, I am changing into the person he wants me to be, and the devil doesn’t like that. He will do anything to stop healthy relationships and growth.
“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full”. -John 10:10
My teammates have taught so much this last 3 months. They showed me how to love the lord and others well. They have showed me what authenticity and vulnerability looks like. Yes, It will get hard to live together for 3 months but when you have the Father’s grace and compassion with you it’s makes it easier to love each other.
Starting off this new year in a new country, in a new position (team leader) and with a new team will be very difficult. But I know that if I choose daily to pick up my cross and and show grace and compassion, it won’t be as difficult.
Please keep my new team (Pretzel Stix) in your prayers as we continue our journey to Malawi, Africa!
