This past 5 months have been the most incredible, challenging and rewarding experience of my life. The best part, I still have 6 months left! I wanted to share a little bit of what’s happened in me since I’ve been away from home.
My Calling:
I have a strong undeniable calling to be a full time missionary. I’ve felt the Lord telling me this for a while now but the fear of the unknown caused me to ignore it. I have now accepted and surrendered to that calling. Prayers are needed as I prepare for that life.
My Relationship:
I have experienced God in so many different ways. I know His voice and I know His personality. I have a deep intimate relationship with God. I can now truly say I know and understand what it means to be a child of God and a friend of God. I’m excited to continue growing in this.
HOLY SPIRIT!!!:
Our God is 3 in 1, and He has allowed me to experience so many things to give me a greater understanding of this. The Holy Spirit has allowed me to experience healings, prophesying visions and greater understanding of the spiritual realm.
Why are so many members of The Church so uncomfortable or unfamiliar with the Holy Spirit?!
Community:
Wow! Living in 24/7 community is no easy task! I’ve learned how to live in unity with people. We aren’t perfect but we are the church! (Look at Acts chapter 2)
I’ve learned the power of vulnerability, and how to be a servant while still being aware of my own needs. I’ve learned that my selfless service should be overflow. I must take good care of myself so that I can love and serve others well.
Leadership:
I could write a blog on this alone! Once again I’ll say that vulnerability is powerful!
I’ve learned and grown in leading from behind, walking in humility and leading with a humble heart. I’ve learned to appreciate and walk in the gentle boldness The Lord has given me.
Mark 10:45 says that Jesus came to serve, not to be served.
“Go first when it hurts, go last when it pays.”
A good leader knows how to follow. I’ve learned a lot about empowering others and discipleship.
Obedience:
Fear is NOT from God! I’ve learned to live with a ready heart and to fearlessly say yes to God. When your father asks you to do something you should do it, no questions asked.
Do you want to be the child that always questions his parents? The kid that’s always asking why?
Or, do you want to be the child who when asked to do something, stands tall and says yes sir. Or, yes I will do that but I need help.
Obedience produces freedom and unleashes the power of the Holy Spirit.
I know that God loves me unconditionally and always knows what’s best for me.
Currently:
In the spirit of vulnerability I’ll give you a few things I am currently working on with The Lord.
Ownership: I can do exactly what I’m told all day everyday, I’m good at it, and I’m very coachable. I always do exactly what needs to be done. But I’ve outgrown that lifestyle, all of that is great but what about going above and beyond for the kingdom!? What about using the gifts God has given me to take charge, take initiative and take ownership. Lately I’ve been working on taking ownership and humbly overachieving for Jesus. I am not striving I am abiding.
(See John 15 for abiding with Christ.)
Apart from Him I can do nothing.
Identity: I am a child of God! That is who I am. In the past I’ve worn masks or not been myself around certain people. I’ve held back from being my true self. That’s exactly what the enemy wants! Now, all masks are off! I will be me now! Everywhere and around everyone! God made me a certain way for a reason so I will no longer suppress that.
I am weird, random, wild, fun, laid back and easy going. I am wise, strong and faithful. I can see the good in most people and situations. I have peace in the midst of chaos. I am a warrior poet who makes plenty of mistakes like David. I am Faithful like Daniel. And I am a friend of Jesus like John. I dream big, and I trust God to make my dreams reality if they align with His will.
I am who God made me and I will no longer hide it. Everything good in me is God.
Failure: Failure is good! Mans greatest fear is failure, and I will no longer walk in that truth. I’m learning to fail, A Lot! No, I’m not trying to fail, but I am going so hard that I fail a lot and learning from it. I am a man and I’m not afraid to fail.
Grace:
The last thing I will mention is grace. I’ve been working on accepting grace. God has endless grace for me. No, I don’t deserve it and I dang sure didn’t earn it, but I’ll humbly accept this free gift. There are times out here I feel like I should be suffering or struggling or extremely uncomfortable. There are times I’m almost ashamed to be having fun or enjoying myself because I’m here to be a missionary, not to vacation.
But the truth is, most of my great moments with God have been on our off days when we adventure/visit cool places. And a lot of our ministry is enjoying each other and the culture. I am walking through life peacefully and God has become my best friend. I mess up a lot , but God has showed me so much grace this season. I’ve learned that God wants me to enjoy life on earth! Yes, as a Christian I live against the grain and this world is not my home, but Gods grace pours over me. The Bible doesn’t promise us an easy ride on earth but it does promise grace. I’m learning to humbly accept Gods grace in many ways. I’ve learned to appreciate the many blessings God pours over me.
Keep the prayers coming! I am so thankful for everyone’s love and support. I miss you all and I appreciate those who continue to encourage me. It’s definitely needed and appreciated.
Ps: We made it to Ghana! More info coming soon.
