To say that Training Camp changed my life would be an understatement. I’m not even sure if “totally, completely, super, duper altered my life” is a big enough to explain the marvelous transformation. During the week of camp, I experienced so many things that I NEVER even thought were possible! The feelings I felt were so indescribable, but I will try my hardest to put them into words. Hopefully words that makes sense and not “IOGNAIUVLKASH!!!!!!” (Which is my screaming crazy, joyful praises to God).
It all started on Sunday, the second day of camp. That afternoon, I listened to a message about loss from Ron Walborn (an incredible speaker we were blessed to have for the first few days of camp). We made a list of things we feel are losses in our life. I wrote down something that I didn’t even know had such an effect on my heart. I realized that I had lost my reputation. After all the years of partying, repeating sins and making mistakes, I was known as a pretty big “party girl” in Casper. This broke my heart, because I am trying to recreate how I am known. I felt as though I would never be able to escape this old image and it was like my “old self” haunted me. I briefly shared these feelings with a small group and with Rachel, a squad trainer of mine, and Joshua, a squad leader of mine.
Later that night, during worship, as I sang songs of praise to God, I started to feel this calm sensation fall upon me. It was suddenly only me in the room surrendering all of myself to God. Rachel came over, placed her hand on my head and started to pray for things that I didn’t even know she knew. She prayed in such detail asking God to free me from the false identities I’ve believed about myself. And for me not to listen to the lies others have formulated about who I am. She prayed that I would not view my “old self” as part of myself now because I am a new creation. I am a DAUGHTER OF THE KING. Whoa, hold on. That’s the second time that day that I had heard that I am a DAUGHTER OF THE KING! Joshua prayed with me earlier telling me that my identity was as God’s daughter and I wasn’t any of those false identities or lies. This was the best news I've ever heard. Twice!
Rachel said that she saw me dancing in a field, wearing a white dress. Free. I saw it too. I couldn't help but smile as tears streamed down my face. It was the most beautiful feeling. And a place I want to be forever. This was my first ever encounter with the Holy Spirit. It was a moment I didn’t want to end. It was a moment that changed my life. Feeling God’s presence and finding ultimate freedom that I have needed for so long. Freedom to be His daugher and live for Him. My identity is in Him. I can't stop smiling!
Source: colourbox.com via Melanie on Pinterest
