I have been trying to write this blog for weeks and am having trouble finding the words to express how overwhelmingly grateful I am for all the gifts I’ve received recently.
I can barely even keep up with writing thank you notes, which is a fantastic problem to have.
God is teaching me how to receive the gifts He has for His children. Knowing how to give gifts well is a beautiful thing, but learning how to receive gifts well can be even more valuable.
God is providing in huge ways. I am currently over $13,000 funded for the World Race. 80% in less than three months. It’s incredible. I’m not even sure what to say. I haven’t organized a single fundraiser, sold any of my possessions, or done anything by my own strength. God has done everything in this situation and so He deserves all the glory. The financial provision has been a great confirmation for me that God really does want me on the World Race in September.
Even more than the material blessings in this season, God has chosen to bless me relationally. He has placed incredibly supportive and encouraging people in my life in a way that I never expected. I am so grateful for a community that has continually shown me God’s love and daily reminds me of my identity in Jesus Christ. I don’t know how I got here, but I’m glad God brought me to this place.
Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God. They seldom reflect on the days of their life, because God keeps them occupied with gladness of heart. Ecclesiastes 5:19-20
That is how I have felt recently. God has me entirely occupied with ‘gladness of heart’. My heart is so full knowing that I serve a God who wants to bless me and has chosen to in this season. Knowing that I have a community of people around me who believe in me and support the work that God is doing in my life is affirming and beautiful.
I don’t deserve it. Any of it. And that is the beauty of these gifts from God. Lately, I wake up in the morning and ask God to help me graciously receive the gifts He is offering. I am humbled by the outpouring of love and generosity from family, friends, and even strangers. Thank you Jesus for free gifts that I do not deserve.
And thank you to everyone who has supported me financially and through prayer and encouragement. God is using you to be a blessing in my life!
I hope that God will give me opportunities to pour the blessings He has given me back onto others.
