Before I graduated from Belmont University in 2013 I applied for a scholarship to mentor social entrepreneurs in Cape Town, but God closed that door for me because He knew there was something better in mind.
When doors close there is always something greater for us…whether it be windows, hallways, or another door that beckons for an adventure.
Close to graduation and confused about my next steps…I was introduced to the World Race.
As soon as I landed on the World Race website I instantly felt a spark. God said to me: “This is it. This is what I have for you.”
“For I know the plans I have for you” declares The Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
Jeremiah 29:11
God fulfills his promises.
At this time last year I was uncertain of what this year would hold. I was overcome with anxiety and fears of saying goodbye to my loved ones. I didn’t always want to leave. To be honest, I wanted to stay in the comfort of relationships and the life I knew at home. But God had a better plan for me.
And it was a better plan than I could have ever imagined…
This year has absolutely been the hardest, best year of my life.
I have been heart broken, bruised, weak, defeated, and dirty.
But God took that brokenness and He did something beautiful with it.
He lifted me up. He gave me strength, courage, and adventure. He reminded me of my worth and my value. He spoke into my life and my passions. He has given me a love for humanity and a heart for the world around me. He has affirmed my place here on Earth. He has given me new dreams, dreams to touch those and the world around me. He has saved me. And I have been redeemed.
God’s love for us is powerful.
He loves us.
And as I sat on the top of Table Mountain overlooking Cape Town I was reminded of that love and how powerful and majestic He is. This world is a beautiful place and I admire his beauty and creation daily.
I’m thankful for the struggle and the adventure of this year because it has made me stronger. This year has taken me to greater depths in understanding His love for His children by serving those of this world.
Being in Cape Town has brought me full circle.
That initial door in Cape Town was closed before I graduated because there was a greater story of adventure and love in mind. (I just didn’t understand that at the time) Cape Town and South Africa are just as beautiful as I imagined, but I am thankful to have discovered the beauty now than if I had done it all alone.
“Trust in The Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.”
Proverbs 3:5-6
I lean not on my own understanding.
My life is in the hands of the maker of heavens.
