The End and The Beginning

So i know this is a little late, but i wanted to write and say goodbye, and share a few things of the things I’ve learned from the world race. This trip changed my life. Its crazy to think that God took me on a special journey, just to show me how much He loves me. 

One of the biggest things i learned was the value of community. I had no idea what it would be like to be surrounded by godly people 24-7, quite honestly i thought it would be a bit annoying, but i can tell you- it is lovely. At times it was challenging for them to always be there watching and listening to you, but it made me realize what it meant to truly be accountable. My teams and their words of love, encouragement, and correction helped shape and mold me into a new and better woman. They taught me what it meant to be loved, just as I am. What it means to encourage each other to be better. I realize how important it is to surround myself with those who lift you up, and who you lift up in return.

Along with this I learned about trust. When i went to training camp i was several thousand dollars under the goal, and within 6 months God provided all the funds i needed for the whole trip! Praise God! He showed me that He was really able to provide for all my needs. In addition to learning to trust God, i had to learn to trust others- my team mates, leaders, and even contacts. I was continually at the mercy of someone else. I hardly ever knew where we were going, when we would get there, where we would sleep, or what we would eat. I cant tell you how many times in the first 3 months Heather had to tell me “Sarah, we arent going to let you starve.” Ive always thought of myself as a “survivor,” always looking out for me because “if I don’t, no one else will.” Well as it turns out, thats false. The devil wants you to believe that youre the only one who can care for you. God says, “dont worry.” Its so nice to know i dont have to go it alone. 

One thing I learned that I didnt know I needed to was that God can and will use me for His will. I think I always thought that He would use those people that were much “holier” than me, and that I was just a back up. But to my surprise- He wanted to use me! Because of this, i got to see places that i had never dreamed of, and the chance to pour into the lives of people all around the world. I could never thank Him enough for such and immense blessing.

And most importantly I learned about being Beloved. This Race, this story, was God’s love story to me. Throughout the whole trip God continually brought back one word to me- Love. He had to take me out into the wilderness to speak tenderly to me. He helped me see so many lies i believed about myself, about love, about God- and to let go (with a little divine help from Aly Beeler and Carin Cownden) and be loved. I knew I was “forgiven” but i could never let go of those memories, and disbelief that He could love ME!!! But He showed me that i was worth it. I am Beloved.  

I only have one regret from the Race, and that is not loving more. I see everyone from O-Squad talking and getting together, and i so wish that i had loved harder and gotten closer. love is worth taking a chance, even if it seems scary. I realize now that love is a choice, and I have to chose in every day, and pray that God gives me the strength to love like He does. 

I never want to forget the glorious times i had with God, the Cheatahs, Team Shiloh, Team Dove, all every beautiful face I had the privilege of seeing around the world. 

But I know that for something new to begin, something else must end.

To read more about these new beginnings see my new blog at:

Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to all of you who have prayed with me, partnered financially, and followed my journey. I pray that you will be deeply blessed,

-with love-

Sarah