Psalm 32:8
“I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you.”
Wow.. this past week has been a spiritual whirlwind. From July 1-3, my team and I spent time getting to know each other and preparing for our journey in Thailand. Passionate speakers, beautiful worship, and team building activities throughout training camp allowed me to dig deeper, remove the lids that are blocking the Holy Spirit from completely entering me, and talk with the Lord about what he wants for me on this trip. Porta Potties and Cold Bucket Showers challenged each of us, but allowed us to really be thankful for the basic amenities we have in our daily lives.
We learned about 3 important aspects of growth in our relationship with the Lord on this World Race: mission, community, and intimacy. For me, intimacy is where I struggle- truly breaking down the walls I have built over time and being open to letting God work through me. Often, I spend my time worrying about my sins and attempting to earn God’s approval and forcing myself to complete a “checklist” for him to love me. WHAT IS SO AWESOME IS THAT HE ALREADY LOVES ME AND THERES NOTHING I CAN DO THAT WOULD CAUSE HIM TO LOVE ME ANY LESS. The Holy Spirit is a person that wants a relationship with us. He doesn’t visit but he dwells inside us. He is coming to stay, to partner and have companionship with you.
the Price for his presence is time
the Purpose for his presence is change
the Product of his presence is power
I am excited to be intentional and present over these next few weeks and see the BIG things God has in store for my team and I. This journey isn’t about us but it’s about HIM.
Another message from two of the speakers Danny and Patrick really resonated with me… When there are no more schools to paint, god still has something greater in mind. He wants more. His one purpose is universal reconciliation for universal worship. That’s the purpose of mission.
I pray for fresh empowerment and openness. I pray for God to give me the strength to be a servant even if I am treated like one. And lastly, I pray that God will break down my walls of distrust and allow me to fully let him in to do his work.
I left training camp with 5 important points of encouragement before the journey:
1. know and experience the Lord (to EXPECT him and know he is doing something BIG)
2. Understand how loved you are
3. You were born to love and share God’s love with others
4. better understand your gifts and purpose
5. Know you are a world changer
With love,
Kaitlin
