Dream big. Open up to the possibility for more that only I can give you. You just need to trust me. I pondered this for weeks as I internally wrestled with God about my future. God was giving me an invitation, a scary one. As I contemplated it, lies and fears began to surface.
Dream big, Chels. I will give you more. Trust me.
It was time to surrender all. My comfort. My plans. My faithless attempts at forging my own path.
Okay, God. Here I am, laying down my dreams and future at the foot of the cross. I surrender my insecurities, fears, and need for control. Help me to trust you. I want to dream Your dreams. Impossible dreams. God-sized dreams! Give me faith in this area of my heart. I trust that Your plans are not only better, but more life-giving than mine. Let’s see what You have in store for me, together!
As I let go, He flooded in. Do you think your path has been your making? Do you think your gifts and interests are your creation? I have been orchestrating your path long before you were even aware. Let me show you.
I love study abroad and international education. It began in college where I was introduced to the world outside of my small town. Going to the far-off places changed my perspective on those unknown and different from me. After grad school, God used the experience of living in Korea to reconcile my relationship with Him. It was an amazing time of going deep into my identity in Christ. My travels in Southeast Asia highlighted my privilege while revealing the struggles of poverty that exist around the world.
Reflecting on these experiences, I love how much I learned through living in unfamiliar territory both geographically and culturally. It shakes things up, and challenges who you are, what you value, and what you’re made of.
But I also love missions. My experience on the World Race has propelled a passion for Kingdom living, giving me tools on how to live in the spirit of Matthew 10. No matter where I am, God can use me for His glory by simply being obedient and open to The Spirit. Abandoning the comforts of home and living in community has created a unique environment to press into difficulty and allow God to refine my teammates and me more into the likeness of Christ. It’s not only amazing to see the internal changes within the squad, but also the joy and love we share as we bring the Gospel to those we encounter.
How can I do international education in an academic world when I have such a big heart for missions and discipleship?
Then it hit me, my God-sized dream. It’s not an either/or!
What would it look like for college students to be completely sold out for Jesus, rooted in the Word and walking in the power of the Holy Spirit everywhere they go? What would it look like to explore a new culture through investing in and serving those living in it? What would it look like for discipleship and mentorship to be integrated into the study abroad experience? What would it look like for young people to be fully alive in their identities in Christ and living boldly for Him in their daily lives? What would the impact be of these young people in the American Church and in our nation upon return?
Although I may not have many answers, it’s exciting to contemplate and hope for the possibilities that He will bring.
And even if He has something else in store, I trust in the One who has given me the ability to dream again.
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But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which today is alive and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, will he not much more clothe you, O you of little faith? Therefore do not be anxious, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them all. But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
Matthew 6:30-33
