Hi guys:) I just wanted to give you an update
So at the end of my mission trip announcement, I left an open statement allowing you guys to ask me any questions. Two of the most commonly asked questions I received was regarding the safety of the trip and whether or not I am excited or nervous about going. With these questions being asked, I wanted to address them to everyone. Yes, this mission trip would be taking me overseas to an environment not as safe or as comfortable as within the states and I am not disregarding my safety. With that being said, I also know I am putting my trust in someone who is far greater than I am. Working at Spring Hill this last summer we had a memory verse, “For this is my command: be strong and brave! Do not be afraid or discouraged for the Lord your God will be with you where ever you go.” As I prepare for my mission trip, I’ve kept this verse in mind. I am confident that God will protect me on this trip and I will be placed on a team of fellow races and guides as I travel to the Carribean and I know World Race is aware of the conditions in the countries we are traveling to and the precautions that are needed. Now, to address the second question on whether or not I am excited or nervous to go, I honestly am feeling both terrified and humbled with the opportunity. As I have begun to prepare for this trip, I asked for all of you to come alongside me in support. But I feel as though I have not fully allowed you to do so. For me to be able to grow, I need to be more open so I can surround myself with a community. So with that being said, from here on out, I want to be as honest and vulnerable with you guys as possible because then I can gain that true community. So, to answer your questions, I am nervous about this trip. I stand before you all completely humbled that God is calling me on this mission trip but I have to admit fear plays a role as well. Lately, I have been scripture diving and praying that God would take my fear away. In this search, God revealed a lot to me and I would like to share what I’ve learned . . .
The word fear always has a negative connotation to its definition. Though we often forget fear can be a wonderful thing as well, for we are supposed to have fear of the Lord. Yet, all other kinds of fear are not of God. 1 Corinthians 14:33 states, “for God is not a God of disorder but of peace as in all congregations of the Lord’s people.” Living in fear is a waste of time because it does not prepare us or bring us any closer to accomplishing anything. When we are afraid it often times is because we have something of value worth losing. This being said I let fears such as losing comfort or the feeling of safety get in the way of what I know God was calling me for a long time. Lately, He laid the Bible verse Acts 20:24 on my heart which states, ” My life is worth nothing unless I use it for finishing the work assigned to me by the Lord Jesus Christ. Fear brings about the assumption that there will be a negative outcome and such thinking can paralyze you from acting. Yet, just how Christ knows our hearts and desires us the devil desires the exact opposite. He can see that God is working in our lives and he also knows sometimes one’s desire to serve the Lord is stronger than temptation so he fills them with fear. Filled with the uncertainty they won’t want to act in fear of wondering if something is truly in God’s plan. But if one refuses to take action in their lives how can God reveal to them whether it is of His doing? Someone gave me the advice, “We often worry we can mess up God’s purpose for our lives. But we fail to realize God does not have a set path per se He has a set destination. We may stray away, but He will always lead us back. For nothing we can do is strong enough to derail God’s purpose for us. So with all this being said, I am trying not to focus on the fear of what may or may not happen but rather fixing my eyes on the present. Focusing on the truths I know about God; all His promises, His unconditional love, and His unfailing faithfulness. So whatever you are afraid of, take peace in knowing God has walked before you, He will walk beside you and He will walk behind you. Lately, I have been reflecting on the passage in the Bible in which Peter walks on water. I thought about how Peter was called out of the boat by God and was able to walk on the water only when his eyes were fixed on Christ. Peter and his disciples were scared Jesus was a ghost yet, He took a leap of faith. Though Peter was uncertain if it was God calling to him he did not let that fear take over him. It was not until Peter got scared did he begin to sink. Though because of Peters boldness to step into the unknown God was able to work through him and all those who stayed in the boat proclaimed He was Lord. So my point is I want to live boldly because fear has no place when it comes to living out faith. For fear doesn’t stand a chance when we stand in God’s love. Thank you all for your continual support.
With love,
Sarah Kullen
