Yesterday, I had to stay home from our first day of ministry in the Red Light in Thailand due to illness. I have been preserved from illness for the majority of the race, which is remarkable and only the Lord's work considering my poor immune system.
I have been looking forward to this ministry since the beginning of the race. In fact, working against sex-trafficking is the whole reason I came on the race. I thought I would just fight being sick, but after going on a prayer walk through the red light, it soon became apparent I would not be able to go.
(The red light during the day)
I was frustrated at being home. I knew I hadn't written a blog in a while, so I got on my blog site to write, but my attention was drawn to a post of mine that has garnered over 1100 hits. It was called "Where I am right now: A need for prayer." It was written just a little over a year ago, and I was, as you guessed it, sick. It was hot and sticky outside, much like it is here in Thailand. I think the biggest difference between that night and this is that I have electricty.
And then it hit me.
The Lord is so faithful, so kind, and so patient with me. I hardly recognise the woman who wrote that blog a year ago. I was full of doubt, and I was still somewhat teetering on this "In relationship/out of relationship" faith that was based on my actions as a "good enough Christian." I was probably an emotional wreck then, but I still recognise how far he has brought me. He is good to fullfill His promises to me, and now I stand steadfast and unshakable in my trust and faith of who He is.
From that place to this He: has shown me how to rest in Him, to fully trust I am a new creation, and how to live moment by moment from the Spirit of the living God within me, has given me SUCH an enthusiasm for the race, but it's not a HUGE commitment, it's just living life, has brought me to a place where I know He can heal me, but continue to trust Him if he chooses not to, has given me full healing and restoration from past relationships, He has solidified my relationship with Him and brought me complete contentment and satisfaction, and He has met all of my funding needs and will continue to do so.
I fully believe He allowed me to be sick for my first couple days of ministry so I would be reminded of His goodness and faithfulness. A year later, it's still hot and sticky, I'm sick again, but I have grown SO incredibly much in Him while He hasn't changed a bit. In this place where I am at now I love trials and tribulations. I know they will be rough, but they will bring growth and strength in my relationship with Him.
The red light district will be there tomorrow. Tonight, I plan to rest and reflect in His goodness.
P.S. The mosquitoes aren't too terrifying. 😉
