I had known since the second I signed up for the World Race, that I was leaving my comfort zone. Before training camp though, my heart had no idea what that really meant. Let's step into all the comfort zones that were busted this week. And let me tell you, I was not happy about it. There were times I was pretty frustrated with God for calling His disciples to die to themselves and follow Him. My insecurities and fears were more present than ever and literally every day I considered forgetting the World Race and heading home.
But this is not about me. I want you to see these busted comfort zones and see how faithful God was the entire time. He showed up in each of these busted comfort zones in incredible ways. Each time whispering, "My daughter, I have so much more for you than you've always known. Trust Me. Let's do this!"
Busted Comfort Zone #1: Food
Now for that average American, food is a big deal. We want what we want, when we want it, and we want lots of it. I am no different and I have been struggling with having a food as an idol in my life for many, many years. I was blind to this issue for many years, and thankfully the Lord woke me up to it 2 years ago. He is so faithful, but I am still working out my freedom in regards to my addiction to food. I am so thankful for His patience and grace with my constant stumbling.
All that to say, letting God bust open my comfort zone with food at training camp was a big deal. I had heart rumors of things we would eat. Like fish head soup. Yes, you read those words correctly. I don't even like beef very much, can you imagine how I handled having a cup full of a weird broth with fish eyes looking back at me?
God provided in the coolest ways when it came to food. You see, when I had heard about the fish head soup I had kind of imagined this awful situation of being all alone and being forced to drink this crazy concoction. I didn't really realize it, but I had never imagined that my entire squad would be doing it with me as well. So instead of being tortured by myself, I had an amazing support system doing it right along side me. You see, this happened at our first breakfast at training camp, and I had just met my squad 14 hours before. But to see the encouragement and support already forming was absolutely incredible. We sat down at a table and cheered for people who got a big gulp of fish or finished their whole cup. Most importantly, we were laughing at the situation and enjoying this first challenge we had approached.
This taught me so much about the beauty of community. I tend to be independent and strive to do things on my own without asking for help. We were NOT created for this. None of us. We are the BODY of Christ. Even through this first big challenge at training camp, God showed me a big comfort zone in my life that He is going to bust and then show me how to place that comfort in His hands alone. All while being surrounded by community like I have never experienced before. They will be there to eat awkward food with me, cry with me, laugh with me, challenge me, and so much more.
We ate some other strange foods throughout the week, but each time, those crazy foods were accompanied with new family, laughter, and great conversation.
During the World Race, I will eat many different things that I would NEVER imagine eating if I stayed in America, but I know God's faithfulness is going to show up in those moments as well. I have loved being in control of the food I eat and I've found so much comfort in it, but that is no more. I have found the joy in surrendering this area of my life to Christ and I can't wait to see what He does with it. This brings entirely new meaning to one of my favorite verses:
"Whether you eat or drink, do it all for the glory of God" 1 Corinithians 10:31
Financial Update: I need to raise more than $2,000 in 2 weeks to be able to go on the Race. Please see what God has already started in my heart and support all that He has to come! Click the Support Me! tab on the left side of the screen! THANK YOU!
There is MUCH more to come about Training Camp! God is teaching more about what He showed me during that week now that it's over. Blogging is helping me process and grow and it's becoming something I simply love to do. Thank you for reading and standing by me as this journey begins. I pray the God opens your heart to who He is in new ways as well! It's all about HIM!
