If I’m being honest, the last few weeks have had me very stressed. I moved straight from finals to worrying and studying for my PRAXIS exam (a standardized test for entering the education field) which I take in less than three weeks. Standardized tests are not my thing and it’s especially difficult for me since I’ve struggled with whether the education field is where I’m supposed to be. In addition to the test, I have to get immunizations, plan for the missions trip, attend family events and functions, and do the normal routine of work (all good things, but definitely keeping me on the go). So now that I’ve listed everything that has been stressing me out, I’d like to share what God is showing me through this busy season. Today when I was nearing a breaking point, I reflected on a verse that I had sort of chosen as my “theme verse” for the trip. The verse is the second half of Isaiah 7:9 and says: “Unless your faith is firm, I cannot make you stand firm.” King Ahaz of Judah greatly feared Israel’s and Syria’s alliance against him, but God reminded him that the countries were only as great as their capital cities and their capitals were only as great as their king. This really places Ahaz’s fear into perspective as God explains that he is fearing men who are under God’s sovereign rule. The truth is God is always in control and has a beautiful plan for his children that is beyond our comprehension. As it says in Matthew 6, “Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need.” I had to surrender my worries to God and realize that he has placed me on this path for this degree so he will give me the ability to pass this test if it is his will. He has also placed wonderful people and reminders in my life that this is true. My mom has constantly encouraged me that I will do well on the test, even though I’ve complained about it a lot. Also, my admissions adviser sent an email to my team reminding us that during the craziness of finals and preparing for the trip, we should also take time to be still and seek God’s presence. Already today I have had to take a few breaths and remind myself of God’s promises. But he is working in me and through me and he is good. So pray for me as I continue to seek a firm faith in our glorious God.
