Welcome to (possibly) my last blog of the race! Just like the title says, I’ll be sharing some of the things I’ve learned that have shaped and molded me into who I am today. This journey has been one I never expected, but would never change a minute of it for anything. God has showed up in insane ways that I’m super excited to share about.
The World Race taught me a lot no doubt. Ever since the first day of training camp my mind has been blown about this whole new life God has for me.
For one, I learned about the Holy Spirit for the first time ever. The trinity. I saw God as a father and Jesus as a friend. That they’re not just these figures high up in the sky but living inside of me and walking alongside me.
I learned how to find my identity in my creator and not let the world put labels on me. An identity that stands firm in the truth. One that is based off of faith, faith that is a gift from God. A kind of faith that sees miracles and can move mountains.
I was able to recognize that I lived with a lot of fear and doubt. I was freed from both of those and now it’s a powerful piece of my testimony.
I learned about the power in testimony. How my own and others stories can truly touch hearts in an undeniable way.
I learned how to listen to God and what he has to say, and that’s a lot! He likes to use us to meet other people where they’re at. That’s amazing! When people don’t see the Lord working in their life he will always find new ways to pursue them. The Lord chased me down until my eyes were open to him and looking back he tried getting my attention so many times and I never noticed.
His love is reckless and there’s nothing that can stop His perfect plan.
I learned that you have to be truly broken to be pieced back together, but don’t worry you’ll be better and stronger after it. This process isn’t on your own because the Lord is your strength. He’s got it.
I’ve learned about true community. The type of people I now call my brothers and sisters. Where we say the hard things in love and get to experience a little piece of this amazing life together.
I’ve learned that it’s possible to eat only carbs for an entire day. And drink way too much coffee. And develop super weird cravings for things like whipped cream and fries at 10pm. And that 10pm is the new 1am in the race.
I’ve read the Bible with fresh eyes. For the first time scripture actually feels alive and active, like a double edge sword. These words are my shield and weapons.
I’ve seen the power that prayer has. Communities gathering around someone lifting them up in prayer.
I’ve seen SO many prayers be answered! Healings! Miracles! Even the smallest prayers be answered when they’re prayed in faith.
I’ve learned that hot showers are a luxury, not a necessity.
I’ve learned about stepping out in boldness. It’s worth offending someone for one moment when the ultimate reality is an eternity in either heaven or hell. Setting your mind to things above. Ride or die, right Brendan?!
Having an eternal mindset. Once I stopped thinking in ways of the world there was this whole new purpose and mission for my life.
I see so much love and kindness from the people I’m around every single day. People who listen to the Lord on your behalf and are always fighting for you both in the physical and spiritual realm.
I’ve learned about my passions and have tangible ways to pursue them. I got to see new parts of the world but see that love is is constant no matter where you are.
I’ve learned that living out of a backpack for nine months can be difficult at times.
I’ve witnessed tough situations but joy from the lord trump all of it.
I’ve seen the Lord in so many kids smiles and hugs. The Lord loves all of his children and calls them by their name.
I learned that living simply is rewarding. A day that prioritizes spending time with Jesus and getting to go out and tell people about him is all I can ask for in a day. Getting to sit with him in his creation is something I will never have enough of.
This is just a short list about some of the things I’ve learned in the race. This blog is about how the race changed my life though. I realized that I wouldn’t be where I am today without learning all of this. The World Race was a great experience for me, I absolutely loved it and it’s part of the reason I’m going back for three more months! All of what I’ve written above has been all God’s work.
The Race initiated this journey and gave me people and places to learn and grow, but ultimately it’s been the Lord. He has been the one moving and working every single day teaching me so much. Looking back a year ago from right now I don’t think I ever expected to be here. I knew this journey was going to be big and amazing but once you live a life with the Lord everything changes.
That’s my biggest takeaway for now. I’m sure the Lord will continue showing me new perspectives as time goes on.
God has a plan for you. He wants you to know him. He desires for you to let him into every aspect of your life and to do it together. There’s nothing he can’t do. I’m sure of it. His love is undeniable and once you find that there’s nothing else more satisfying. That’s it, that’s how the race changed my life. I finally met my creator face to face and made the decision to dedicate every day and all of me of to Him forever.
