Before leaving for this trip, it was prophesied over me that God was going to use my story, the one filled with depression and brokenness to set others free.
In Christ, our greatest weaknesses become monuments of His grace and redemption.
The short bus ride had been uneventful up to this point. We were making the journey from Swaziland back to South Africa to catch a plane to Ethiopia.
In front of me, a young girl, maybe 18 years old, and a boy were sitting peering out the window. I felt God leading me to talk with them, so I introduced myself, made small talk, and settled back into my seat.
“There, I did it,” I thought to myself.
A few minutes later I heard the voice of God again. “Finish the work.”
I knew what He meant so I leaned forward and asked them if they were followers of Jesus. The girl’s response was not too positive; she talked about her catholic school and a sort of bland experience of Jesus and Religion.
“God hates me,” she stated bluntly.
I told her about the God of love, the God of freedom, the goodness of the Gospel. Her next words solidified the divine appointment God had ordained.
“I’ve struggled with depression and suicidal thoughts all my life. God hates me because he won’t take away my pain.”
By the grace of the Lord, I was able to respond, “Me too, but God.”
What an awesome phrase! Me too, but God!
I have heard the lies, the accusations. I have had the thoughts of suicide, the voice saying kill yourself. However, because of my awesome Father I have a ‘but God’ story!
I was completely set free from depression, and now the Lord, in his grace, is using me to set others free!
I prayed over her as we arrived at our stop. I told the demons to go back to hell by the authority of Jesus. I believe that young girl now has a ‘but God’ story!
What an awesome God we serve! Thank you Jesus.
A short update!
Things are going amazing here leading the 38 awesome men and women of X-squad. Last month in Swaziland was filled with God moments. People within the squad moved closer to the Lord in so many ways. We were also able to do a bunch of work around the grounds of El Shaddai orphanage, and the surrounding community. I’m still in need of around $3000 dollars to finish this year with X-Squad. Also prayers for boldness to step out in faith after the race are so appreciated. God bless and thanks for being a part of this ministry with me!
Here is a website some of the members of the squad created for the orphanage!
Also check out this awesome video of the amazing women of X-squad and some of the awesome truth God is speaking to them!
