Tonight, I leave Pensacola. It’s been my home for almost a decade now. It’s where I found my true identity in Christ, where God introduced me to the most important people in my life, and where the Father brought my attention to the World Race and his heart for all people. It’s a very difficult moment for me because I have had a sense of comfort and routine here, where immediate family is a drive away and where everyone around me speaks English and either knows me personally or knows someone I know. As I leave this physical home of mine, I’m reminded of a very important message that the Lord brought to my attention when I first was deciding to go on this journey. One night, in March of last year, I was at my bed unable to sleep. I was bothered by a situation with a friend, unhappy spiritually because of my selfish motives while serving at church, and struggling with life decisions I should make. Frustrated, I got on my face and knees and asked God to speak to me, to give me peace, to help me see from the right perspective what was going on. He led me to Hosea 11:11 in the Bible which says:
“they shall come trembling like birds from Egypt, and like doves from the land of Assyria, and I will return them to their homes, declares the Lord.”
This passage deals with the children of Israel being brought to their physical promise land, but I believe God was speaking to me specifically about my situation and it applies to every believer’s life (there are many passages of scripture that back it up). While we may physically live in a specific nation and city, God is our home. Christians are citizens of heaven, God is a refuge for those who trust in him, and lo, Jesus is with us, even to this end of this age. This applies to all of our struggles, no matter where we are. I’m leaving a physical place that means so much to me, but God has always been my hiding place and my refuge while I’ve been here and he doesn’t intend to stop being that as I walk with him in other nations. I pray that you become closer to him and dwell more deeply in God’s words, presence, and love. I love you all!
If you are able to give in any capacity, I still need donations to be fully funded for my trip. Please consider and pray about donating by clicking the donate button at the top of this blog site!
