As I anticipate the next few days of finals and the closing to this spring semester, I am reminded of God’s faithfulness. This year has been one of discovering more of who God is. I’ve been reminded He is a good, good Father – one who is always loving, never failing, full of grace, giving purpose to each day, strength and manna for today, fully in control, giving a hope that never wavers, and never leaves nor forsakes. He is constant. He goes before me and walks with me.
Through all hills and valleys, He never leaves me. I think back to working as a summer missionary and teen helper with CEF – Child Evangelism Fellowship of Eastern PA – and remember the truth found in Hebrews 13:5. Holding my hand out, with my thumb at my chest, I can point to each finger reminding myself that God says, “I will never leave you”. One word for each finger.
In a season of transitioning, whether it is now finishing the semester or future transitions to come, I want to remember God’s faithfulness as I see how He has worked in the past and this year and have hope as I look forward. I’m reminded of the song “Yes and Amen” sung by Chris Tomlin. The words “I will rest in your promises. My confidence is your faithfulness” are so true for me. As I recognize who this God is, I see how many promises He freely gives. I deserve none of it, but He abundantly loves me and provides grace that covers my constant mistakes and sinful nature. He walks with me through each step, He remains. He doesn’t give up when life gets hard, communication gets difficult, or voices disagree. He coaches me through today and gives me what I need for the present. I don’t have to worry about tomorrow; I can seek to serve and know Him today. (See Matthew 6:25-34 *Love this passage!)
Another song I’ve heard throughout high school and think back to is “Legacy” by Nichole Nordeman. The success and achievements of this world are so temporary and so trapping. Nichole sings about the treasure pile that is often built but later stolen or destroyed over time. This is so true. At times, I place so much value in the words and opinions of others or put in so much effort in balancing as many “resume building” opportunities as I can. At the end of the day, I’m left tired and empty. These things don’t fill my spiritual cup. Unless I go to the true source of living water, my cup will continue to be lacking and disappointing. (Read John 4 and see Jesus’s interaction with the woman at the well. He provides living water – the best source.) Often, I find myself and others trying to fill our cups from so many other sources. One of the biggest things I’ve learned this year is to let myself rest and begin to learn how to fill my cup with something sustainable.
How are you filling your cup? Have you taken a moment to ask “what do I need today? This moment?” Have you taken a moment to think about how God is moving in your life today? What about in this last week? In what ways have you seen God’s faithfulness? I want to remind you that you are so loved! God’s love is far beyond any other human love we could receive. His love is unending and abundantly flows. Be filled.
My prayer for myself and all of you is based off the words of Nichole Nordeman: I pray that we would desire to leave a legacy – one where we choose to love – to point to you in all things – to seek you – leave an offering as a child of mercy and grace. God, fill us with your living water. Remind us of our need for you and the promises you have for each and every one of us. Thank you for never leaving nor forsaking. Thank you for the grace you pour on us – you owing us nothing, but giving us everything. You deserve all the praise and glory. Amen.
For more information about the World Race, go to www.worldrace.org. Next January, I will be traveling to 11 countries with Adventures in Missions: Cote d’Ivoire, Ghana, Togo, Myanmar, Thailand, Malaysia, Philippines, Argentina, Chile, Bolivia, and Peru. The World Race is a journey living amongst other young adults seeking to abandon this world’s traditional lifestyle and share the love of Jesus with others around the world. So far, the World Race has had over 4,500 world racers, works with over 1,150 community partners in over 80 countries. I’m excited for what the Lord has planned for this next season of life and would love for you to join me on this journey! Please sign up for emails at the “Follow Me” tab; pray over this season of preparation, for my team, and the people we will meet; and click “Donate” to become a monthly or one time donor. I appreciate so much your encouragement, support, and prayers!
God bless,
Madison Riley
*Next blog I’ll share more about my middle name and what it means to me.
