Sept. 2019 – This month I’m living in a town called Los Andes in Chile. It’s month nine of this eleven-month journey, and everywhere I have walked the last two weeks I’m surrounded by these huge beautiful mountains. Mountains that are constantly reminding me of my creator. He creates with such beauty and goodness. He is constant and present with us each moment. He is strong, faithful, and in control. In the midst of processing and life, I am reminded that everything we experience is in His hands. He takes us under His wing. God wants to have a personal relationship with each of us. His love is abundant and unconditional. He cares about every thought and emotion. He walks with me every moment, and I never have to walk this life alone.
As I get ready to celebrate turning 23 on Monday (9/9), I’ve sat and reflected on this year and journey. This past year the Lord has taught me so much. He has become more real and personal to me in ways I couldn’t have imagined. Here is a list of 23 areas of growth and learning I’ve had in this last year with my dear Father.
A deeper level of dependence and trust on the Lord
The importance of gratitude and generosity
I hear the voice of the Lord – not audibly, but I can discern his voice from mine.
The Lord gives me pictures and visuals to teach me his truth.
Choosing forgiveness and releasing bitterness and unforgiveness
Owning my sin and mistakes and taking next steps to apologize and reconcile
Operating out of the Lord’s joy and peace
The Lord likes to laugh and have fun! Spirituality does not always mean serious.
Deeper hunger for Him and his Word as my foundation
Letting go of shame and choosing to share the story God has given me
Learning to sit and be still rather than operate out of performance
The cross & Jesus changes everything – seriously everything! He made a way for us of us to be reconciled back to the Father!
I choose to love and take care of my body – it is for me and not working against me.
Leading through connection to the Father, walking with the Holy Spirit, praying continually, and living as the person He created me to be
He creates beauty in the brokenness.
Everything rests in his hands – I choose to release control and place my hands solely in his hands.
Growth in patience and flexibility
Love deeply– even in the small seasons we have with people – it is so worth it!
Learning to trust myself and ask for help when I need it
Walking in abandonment and getting rid of the sense of entitlement
Simplicity – I can and like living on less.
We live in a spiritual world – worship and rest are our weapons.
Christ is victorious – He invites us to partner with him to bring Kingdom today!
Thank you for your continued prayers on this journey! We are about half way through our time in Chile. As a leadership team, we are solidifying plans for the final two months of this journey with time in Bolivia, Peru, and Ecuador.
I wanted to reach out to you for one last request for financial support. I need your help to raise money for final expenses of this year including multiple flights to get home. All donations are helpful.
I am so grateful for this opportunity to share the good news and God’s love through Adventures in Missions. I couldn’t do it without your help, prayers, and support. You have made it possible for me to come and serve. It has been such an incredible year with the Lord, and I’m excited for this next year to come!
PayPal: paypal.me/madisongroff ([email protected])
Venmo: @Madison-Groff
Checks: sent to my home address (message/email me)
