Cy asked me to write a blog for him, and I said, “Um, I guess so?” But then he said he would write one for me if I wrote one for him, so that’s what this is. We each wrote one for each other talking about how we’ve grown on the race so far. So enjoy Cy’s blog about me. And check out his blog to read the one about him.
Jesse Smothers. J-Smooth. J-Swole. JSmo. Jess. I’ve done life with this dude for 7 months or so at this point. I’ve had a front row seat as God has molded and formed Jesse into a mighty warrior and a man after God’s own heart. It has been my honor getting to walk alongside him throughout this journey. I can’t speak for Jesse, but I believe that I’ve found a friendship that will last a lifetime.
To me, the term ‘accountability partner’ is too mild and kind of dry. Jesse has been the Barnabas to my Paul (or vice versa). He has been my brother in arms, standing beside me during the heat of battle. Always protecting, encouraging, and pushing me along. As much as I wanted to believe it would be, The World Race hasn’t been a 9 month spiritual high. There have been deep valleys and low points. I’m so thankful that God placed in my life, firstly an amazing team of nine guys, but more specifically, one guy that I know I can go to for anything. We have both learned that biblical manhood looks like honesty and vulnerability with one another. Diligent prayer and intercession have been deeply sewn into our friendship along with exhortation and encouragement.
One major piece of growth that I’ve seen in Jesse is spiritual discipline. He is so dedicated when it comes to prayer and spending time in God’s word. That dedication set the pace for our team, and provided us with an amazing example. He has definitely led the charge in that regard, and without using words, has pushed me to become more disciplined and dedicated when it comes to my spiritual life. Another reason I look up to Jesse so much is that he is keenly in tune with the Spirit’s leading, and always willing to be obedient. He sees a need, and without hesitation, steps in to help. He truly loves his neighbor as he loves himself. He has a heart for the lost and hurting that can only come from the Holy Spirit in his life. Over and over I’ve seen him provide unconditional love to anyone and everyone he comes into contact with, including myself. He is an empty vessel that God has used and will continue to use bringing kingdom across this planet.
And ladies, this dude is single…just sayin
