Yesterday marked day 40 on the World Race. I can't beleive it has already been 40 days since my feet left American soil; time flies! There are many things that have been brought to light in the past few weeks, lessons that have been learned and experiences I wouldn't trade for a hot shower and some of momma's homemade cooking. Here's a peak into the past 40 days of my life.
1. FOCUS
You would think that staying focused on Jesus would be easy being that I am on the mission field! Welp, that is a lie. I wouldn't say it is harder, but the struggle is there just as strong to get distracted on anything and everything the devil throws your way. Whether it's unexpected problems, relationship drama, spiritual warfare or issues back home. Satan is always putting things in your sites to cloud your vision and take your eyes off the One who is our Refuge. God is teaching me to continue to make Him my refuge and pour my heart out to Him, even in difficulties, and in that I learn to trust Him at all times in every situation.
2. OPEN
Whether it's goat for dinner or learning to live in an environment of constructive feedback, you NEED an open mind to make it through the days. More importantly than an open mind, you need an open heart. God wants to teach me so much over this journey and it comes in many different ways; His Word, prayer and lots of times, other people. Keeping my heart in the place to receive and hear has been vital over the past few weeks, and I know it will be more important as the days go on.
3. LISTEN
We all have two ears and only one mouth…although, many times in life I forget this simple truth. Learning to listen more than you talk has always been a struggle for me. Most of the time, I am so excited about something or someone I just chatter on not realizing I may have cut someone off or totally never given them a chance to get a word in. God has been teaching me the value in being a good listener. Not only with others, but also with Him. When you take the time to close your mouth, listen to what someone else has to say you can not only learn so much but you make them feel important. Listening, as I am learning, is vital for loving each other well. I am excited to continue growing in this area.
4. ANXIOUS
Be anxious for nothing – ha, AS IF! Who can do this? lol. As much as I don't want to admit, I find myself being more anxious than I should about things. Mostly I am anxious about my future – what's next? The most asked question of any World Racer and young person in general. LEAVE ME ALONE! As if I know what's next. I am trying to get through today. HA! But, there is alot of pressure to figure out what is next and what the future holds. Something God has been teaching me is to just enjoy the moment I am in. Stop being anxious about all the things I have no clue of and learn to trust Him. Anything that makes you anxious is a growth opportunity. I have lots of room to grow in this area of trust. As I move into deeper trust with the Lord as my Father, I can rest assured He has my future under control. He knew the days of my life before the beginning of time. He is showing me that if I truly believe He is sovereign over every aspect of my life, then it is possible to trust Him in ALL situations.
