God continues to amaze me on how He is providing; to not only the financial side of preparation but also to the emotional and spiritual growth I need as I am embarking on this journey. Last fall I was able to attend a conference in Georgia where I was equipped with the material and tools to facilitate a Beauty for Ashes retreat; to empower women through their stories, vulnerability and community. I took this material back home and practiced with a few of my girlfriends and was amazed on how we connected more deeply and how receptive they were to what I presented. I have always had a hard time expressing myself and speaking what I am thinking but through leading this study God has shown me, with reliance on Him, He will give me the right words to say.
Declaring my worth as a daughter of God!
Another way God has challenged me in preparation for the race is giving me more opportunity to step up as a leader for my small group as my co-leader had to step down from some of the responsibility. I revamped the group a bit and am continuing to deepen the community. My small group has been so vital and such a blessing to so many it is great to see God bringing us all together to do life together! I also have been preparing the lesson, not just videos and discussion anymore, I have been able to prepare a lesson and present it to my peers. Public speaking has never been my strength but just another way God is showing me what I am capable of with His guidance. As my group continues to do life together, God keeps showing me how I need to be a leader and what areas I can be the follower with planning and delegating responsibilities to others.
Equip you with everything good for doing His will, and may he work in us what is pleasing to Him, through Jesus Christ, to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen.
Hebrews 13:21
I keep praying for opportunities to be a light in lives that I encounter in my daily activities. I want to be intentional in everything I do and say. I do not want to wait for the race to share God’s love and do His work. There is plenty to do here and now and what great practice it has been!
God does not call the qualified, He qualifies the called.
Challenge: How can you be a light to someone today?
**Funding update: gotta just give God praise for His provision as I have surpassed my fundraising goal of $10,000 (checks take longer to show on my blog but it’s coming in)! My frozen yogurt fundraiser was a great success with gorgeous weather; I raised $304 from one night of sales and donations. It’s great to get the community involved! Thanks to everyone who came out!
