Before leaving for the race I would have called myself a “lukewarm Christian” I knew jesus, but I was still living for myself. At launch, I received a “key for the journey ” and on the key was a word that my leaders and mentor prayed over that would guide me throughout my race, the word was bloom. Looking back I don’t think there is a word that describes my growth more. I went from that lukewarm place to a place of full faith and trust in the Father. He has stretched me and grown me in incredible ways, none of it would have been possible if the Father hadn’t provided me with opportunities to grow in trust with Him. A huge part of my growth has been posturing my heart in a way that allows Jesus to push me deeper, to teach me new things and to be willing to be used as HIS vessel for HIS glory. As soon as I saw the word on my key I just knew that the Lord wanted to use this 9 months to mold me into the follower and believer that I now am. Part of growing with the Father is realizing that there is always more. That were never going to reach a point where Jesus tells me that I’ve experienced all the growth that he has for me. He is a kind, faithful, loving father who will never turn his back on me, who will never give up on me, who will continue to fight for me no matter how many times I turn my back. As a verb, the word bloom means to flourish or thrive. Being away from “home” has made me realize that home isn’t just one place, home is where the Lord calls me, where ever his presence is dwelling. In every temporary home, Jesus has allowed me to bloom more in His image, becoming more “me” than I’ve ever been. His grace and mercy have been more evident overseas that ever before. In every country home has felt different but my fathers love for me has remained constant. When I reached places of stagnancy, he provided struggle and discomfort, when he was pushing me he provided a source of comfort. He is a PROVIDER. In every season, he knows exactly what I need and he doesn’t hold back. So much of my blooming has been realizing the truth that he speaks into my every day. Realizing that his love is never ending, his grace is ever flowing, his mercies are new in each footstep. He is gracious with his time and he longs for my obedience in spending time with him. So much of my time before the race consisted of worrying about the future. I can now confidently say that whether I know what comes next or not, I am not worried in the slightest. He promises to go before me and guide me down the path that is in his perfect will. I know that in each footstep, he is moving more than I know. In this journey Jesus has shown me what it looks like to follow boldly and obey courageously. He has humbled me in asking for the things I need, knowing that I have a father who provides for his children. He has blessed me with so much faith in his perfect plan.
For the people reading who might be struggling with faith in His plan for you, DO NOT WORRY! He loves you and he knows you and your heart. His desire is always for your benefit. Don’t loose faith and don’t loose trust in our perfect father. I hope that this gives you a little bit of insight into the ways that He has been working in me and through me. Please please be willing to be used by the father and don’t get caught up in the ways of the world. Nobody’s opinion matters besides the Lord’s. If any of you need encouragement PLEASE reach out!!! My WhatsApp is 904-307-0260 and I would LOVE to talk to you.
With a full heart,
Lucy
