“in order that Satan might not outwit us. For we are not unaware of his schemes.” 2 Corinthians 2:11
I don’t know about you guys, but the closer this trip gets, the more spiritual attack I believe I am facing. I was journaling last night and began to expose some of the lies from the enemy I have heard and felt as I have been preparing for WR. I don’t know if any of you have experienced some of the same, but in following Christ’s example, I wanted to take a minute and rebut some of these lies – exposing them for what they are and claiming truth and freedom instead:
LIES:
“The WorldRace is the most important thing in your life right now.”
“Next year is where the real ministry and fruit is going to take place.”
– Actually, Colossians says to “make the most of every opportunity.” I have opportunities NOW that need my attention and focus!
“You can do your best, but the language barrier, cultural differences and shortness of your stay won’t really allow you to make a difference.”
– All throughout Scripture, God comments about how He prefers obedience and not sacrifice. Faithfulness and trust are the foundations of this trip.
“Try and trust, but remember, ‘goodbyes’ are going to be frequent.” (I’m a deep relationships kind of person, superficial relationships are hard for me to manage)
– The last half of Romans 12 gives no timeframe, it’s kind of an on-going gauntlet of commands.
“Good thing you’re going with a team. That way you’ll have a lot of people to listen to your struggles and help make the experience easier and more fun.” (I’ve been fighting the thought that my team is for me – I’m challenging myself to confront this kind of selfishness. I’m going to serve the world, but if I don’t serve my team (and thus, expect to only BE served) my ministry will fail.)
“You don’t have all your support raised?! Well, at least you can go as far as your money wil take you. You can always go home if you think the money’s going to run out.” (I hope no one is giving up that easily! If God has called you to this trip, live with the faith that He will provide. Don’t expect to go home early – let God provide!)
– Deauteronomy 7:9 – “Know therefore that the Lord your God is God, He is a FAITHFUL God, keeping His covenant of love to a thousand generations of those who love Him and keep His commands.”
–
Phillippians 4:19 – “And my God will meet all your needs
according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.”
“No one can understand what it’s like trying to prepare for this thing.” (Not true, most people want to enjoy the cool-ness factor, but there are a rare few that are willing to listen and sort through this prep process with us).
“Next year it’ll be great to have so much distraction-free time to read Scripture and pray.” (I’ve actually used this to cop out of a quiet time. I don’t know about you guys, but quiet times are attacked like never before.)
– Jesus often went up onto a mountainside to pray. Thanks Jennifer for setting such a great example in this area.
“Won’t it be nice to get away from the apathetic, materialistc, self-absorbed American church?” (Living with the passion for this experience that I am, it’s been hard not to judge those who live in extravagance)
– Jesus set an example of compassion. The needy of the world need our love, compassion and prayer just as much as those trying to cover their pain with things and pleasures. This is not a time for judgment, it is a time for prayer.
“It’s a shame God’s telling me to abandon my family, friends, pets, etc. for a year.” (This is a lie. If you are feeling drawn away from those closest to you, call it for what it is. Our support networks back home are critical to the mission. Let people join in the process with you. They are still worth your time!!!)
“Each day is one day closer to the trip. Just make it one more day.”
– God’s mercies are new every morning. Enjoy the day for what it is. Do not allow impatience, discontent, anticipation, etc. to rob you of the moment of now. The fruit of the Spirit is patience (Galatians).
You guys encourage me in ways you don’t even know. I’m so blessed to be sharing this experience with each of you. I pray each of your preparations are going according to God’s ultimate purpose. I am asking God for the faith to trust Him through this time and pray the same for each of you.
