January 31st
I stood in the chaotic hell of the Dar Es Salam, Tanzania. In the early hours of the morning I had no other choice but to trust the Lord.
For the majority of the race the Lord has been showing me how little I actually trust Him. Ouch… right? Well it’s true and He has been giving me tasks and has been putting me in situations where I can’t possibly accomplish anything without trusting him first.
After almost a week of traveling we were on our final stretch of our journey. My team, Joyous Noise (another team we are living with us for the month) and our three squad leaders were set to load a bus at six am and leave for Singida.
The morning started at 4:45 where I was dressed, ready and checked out of the hotel. Those who were leaving early were ready to go with their packs strapped to their backs. Since it was so early in the morning it was still dark. As we walked to the bus stop we were bombarded by Africans, trying to sell us their various products. Already overwhelmed and stressed as I was pushing past with bus station in sight, I lost my footing and fell with my pack and scraped up my knees. Discouraged and embarrassed I pushed through and made it to the entrance of the bus station. I did a head count and everyone was present except two of our squad leaders. Crap! Six thirty was approaching and so I gave the bus tickets to those who were there so they could go and get on the bus. I remained with three other people to wait for the two missing squad leaders.
I was panicked and afraid that I was going to be separated from my team. In that moment all I could do was trust the Lord and that He would show up. The remainder of us waited at entrance of the bus station for a little bit longer before we decided to enter. Waiting there was another team. They were waiting to be directed to their bus that was taking them to another city. While we were waiting they decided to read Jesus Calling ( a daily devotion) and this is what it said:
Jesus Calling (January 31st)
I am your strength and shield. I plan out each day and have it ready for you, long before you arise from bed. I also provide the strength you need each step of the way. Instead of assessing your energy level and wondering about what’s on the road ahead, concentrate on staying in touch with Me. My power flows freely into you through our open communication. Refuse to waste energy worrying and you will have enough strength to spare. Whenever you start to feel afraid, remember that I am your Shield. But unlike inanimate armor, I am always alert and active. My Presence watches over you continually, protecting you from both known and unknown dangers. Entrust yourself to My watch care, which is the best security system available. I am with you and will watch over you wherever you go.
It is crazy how the Lord works things out. In that moment while I was stressed and afraid the Lord spoke to me through a minuscule devotion. He was there and already knew the steps I would take before I even did. I could not help but get emotional and realize that at the end of the day it is His will be done and not my own. I need to stop relying on myself but I need to start relying on the Lord. After having this realization and being alright with whatever was going to happen our two missing people found us. In a sigh of relief we booked it to our bus and made it just in time.
During our journey I had some great reflection time with the Lord. He was kept reiterating the importance of trusting Him in everything I do. So, from this month forward I have decided to do just that…. Trust.
And it’s funny that this has come at such a perfect time because I have my last and final deadline approaching at the end of this month. I still have $2,300 dollars to raise and I am trusting the Lord that I will reach my goal. If you feel lead please consider partnering with me financially or in prayer.
