Twenty six.
That’s how many days are left till launch.
Yikes!
I remember applying for the World Race last February, thinking January 2019 seemed so far away. Sometimes it felt like it wouldn’t ever come. Now, it’s rushing at me, and I have so many thoughts flying through my mind.
I’m thinking about the last little bit of gear that I need to get. I’m thinking of the people I need to see before I leave and planning when to see them. I’m thinking of actually leaving much of what I know to go to places I’ve only heard about. I’m thinking about my walk with God and what He’s been teaching me in these last few weeks…
If you haven’t figured it out yet, I’m thinking about a lot.
On top of that, the last week or so has been one of the toughest I’ve experienced. Between my thoughts, work, prep, people, learning, stress I put on myself, spiritual warfare, etc. (emphasis on that last one), it’s been a chaotic week.
I was reminded today though that all of that doesn’t matter.
Now, you might be thinking, “Uh, dude! It kinda does!”
And yes, it all does matter; as long as my priorities are straight though. What I can easily tend to forget in these tough times is that there is something that matters even more though, and that is:
What my God says.
I think to myself: I don’t know if I’ll have everything ready within 26 days!
God says, “I didn’t spare my own Son for you. Will I then not graciously give you all things? (Romans 8:32) I will supply every need you have according to My riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” (Phil. 4:19)
I think: I’m not ready or worthy to go on the World Race, to represent You, God.
God says, “I don’t look at your appearance or stature. I don’t see you as men do. I see your heart. (1 Sam. 16:7) I chose you before I created the foundation of this world, have adopted you as my child, and I take pleasure in you.” (Ephesians 1:4-5)
I think: my mind is so clouded, and I can’t see where I’m going. I feel like I’m loosing my way.
God says, “My thoughts and ways are not your thoughts and ways. My thoughts and ways for you are so much higher than yours. (Isaiah 55:8-9) My word, My instructions for your life, will light your way.” (Psalm 119:105)
I think: God, I’m so tired. I don’t know if I can keep going.
God says, “Come to Me. I am gentle and humble in heart and will give you the rest you are looking for. (Matt 11:28-30) Then you will renew your strength and will rise up. You will run and not grow weary. You will walk in My way and not faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)
I think: God, I’m fearful of what’s to come, of leaving things and people behind.
God says, “Don’t be scared or fearful. I am your God and I will help you. I will give you strength. I will hold you up. (Isaiah 41:10) Don’t worry about the past. See! I’m doing something new in you. It’s coming! Can you see it!! I’m making a way for you through anything that stands in your way. (Isaiah 43:18-19) I will reward you for your faithfulness.” (Matt. 19:29)
In the last week, I’ve been reminded of the importance of speaking life to myself, of listening to what God is saying to me through His word, of how little my problems and worries really are and just how big my God really is. I’ve been reminded that if I seek His kingdom above all else, that He will provide the rest, the time, the resources, and the opportunities. (Matt. 6:33) I’ve been reminded that I need to let God have the final say.
So, to close:
God says, “I’m thinking about you. I’m thinking of the future you will have of peace and hope. (Jer. 29:11) Everything will work out if you just love and trust Me. (Romans 8:28) I love you so much that nothing you can possibly imagine could separate you from Me.” (Romans 8:38-39) Now go. Love others as I have loved you.” (John 13:34)
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God Bless!
-Ben
