During this recent phase of transition in my life, I’ve found myself feeling overwhelmed as I take these next steps forward. I recently graduated nursing school and passed boards to become a Registered Nurse. In light of this, I’m often asked the same questions: “How does it feel to be done? Are you relieved now?” Each time I answer with an obligatory, “Yes! It’s a huge relief!” However, that’s not actually the case. Although becoming an RN is a huge accomplishment, I feel like I’ve exchanged one burdensome task for another.
My recent studies and preparation for boards had been somewhat of a distraction and an excuse for me to slack in fundraising. Fundraising has never been something that I desired to do, in fact, I actually kind of dreaded it. So far, this phase of my journey has been uncomfortable, overwhelming, and quite often discouraging. I’m uncomfortable asking others for help and support; because in my mind, it is my job to help others and never to be on the receiving end. I’ve been overwhelmed and challenged by the seemingly daunting amount I am required to raise. And I’ve been discouraged by the pace of the whole process. However, raising support is growing and stretching me in ways I could have never imagined!
I’m thankful for the discomfort because it provides an avenue for growth and an opportunity to experience Holy Spirit as my Comforter. I’m thankful for the humility required to ask and receive; and for the partnerships that are established as I lay aside my pride. I’m thankful for the seemingly daunting amount that I have to raise because it requires faith and partnership. I’m thankful for the pace of the process because I am learning to be patient and to walk hand-in-hand with the Lord. Through it all, humility, boldness, perseverance, grit, and vision beyond what I can see, are being cultivated.
In the midst of the mixed emotions, I hear the Lord saying, “Don’t fight the process.” Through all the discomfort, I am learning, and finding rest in 3 main things:
- Don’t resist the work that God is doing: There is purpose in the process, and I need to be present, not rushing through, every step and phase. My resistance, my trying to take short cuts, or to do things my own way only results in a delay of the inevitable, and my missing out on what the Lord has for me along the way.
Psalm 19:21 – You can make many plans, but the Lord’s purpose will prevail.
Psalm 138:8 – The Lord will work out His plans for my life-for your faithful love, O Lord, endures forever.
- Change your perspective: Often times we filter life’s events through the wrong perspective, leading to inaccurate perceptions about situations, circumstances, and ourselves, that we then internalize and believe as truth. When you are united with Jesus, you are seated in heavenly places. This is the perspective from which all of life’s situations and circumstances should be filtered…from above, from a position of victory and rest.
Ephesians 2:6 – For he raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us in heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus.
- Believe what God says: As we internalize misperceptions, we believe things concerning ourselves that were never meant to apply to us. It is imperative to hold on to the truth of God’s word regardless of what things may look like around you…to believe what God says beyond the perceived realities of your circumstances, your emotions, and your opinions. Wherever God leads you, He intends to, and will provide for you there.
Psalm 119:160 – The very essence of your words is truth; all your regulations will stand forever.
Isaiah 55:10-11 – The rain and snow come down from the heavens and stay on the ground to water the earth. They cause the grain to grow, producing seed for the farmer and bread for the hungry. It is the same with my word. I send it out and it always produces fruit. It will accomplish all I want it to, and it will prosper everywhere I send it.
My first fundraising deadline is coming up…faster than I expected! By May 15th, I need to have a total of $5,000 raised. Would you consider supporting and partnering with me on this journey to serve the underserved around the world?
To donate, you can click the donate button at the top of the screen and you will be prompted through the process. Thank you for your consideration!
I also want to give a huge thank you to those of you who have supported me thus far, both financially and in prayer! I truly appreciate your generosity, support, and partnership!
If you would like to partner with me in prayer, or are seeking more information about what I am doing, please contact me via email at [email protected]
