Desicions: The God of Free Will.

Here are a few prominent lessons that God has been teaching me the past two weeks, each interrelated:

1. God, my Father, calls me His daughter and loves me just the same as His son, Jesus Christ. He, who is good, created me and lives within me; therefore, I am good. Please pray that this will be transformed from head knowledge to also an understanding of the heart.
2. God does not always give us one "right" way and one "wrong" way from which to choose. While in some cases this is true, there are other instances in which God allows for two (or maybe more) paths-- neither being an incorrect decision that would stray us away from the blessing and will of God. I believe that sometimes God gives us choices and says, 

"Which ever way you choose I will bless you. Because of me, you are made good. Learn to trust the goodness that lives within you."

For me, I oftentimes get too caught up in making the "right" or "wrong" decision to the point where I am burdened under the law. Now, there are definitely times when we seek God's counsel and he says, "Yes, this way is of me" or "No, do not choose this." Which, to me, makes it easier. I think it's so much easier (most of the time) for God to say, "Yes" or "No," and I will obey. Even in this case, God gives us the free will to choose our way over His way. However, I do not serve a God who dictates my every step; I serve a God who allows me certain decisions to walk in the freedom that comes from Him alone.

"And your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, This is the way, walk you in it, when you turn to the right hand, and when you turn to the left." 

-Isaiah 30:21 

1 Month Gone. 1 Month to Go.

So, yesterday marked the one month period at GSP in Colorado Springs, CO. A part of me feels as if the time has gone by too quickly considering we only have about one month left, while the other part of me feels as if we have been here a while considering how closely I've already grown with the people, all the activities we have done, and, most importantly, all that God has already taught me.

Here are the major themes that God keeps teaching/reminding me and that seem to link together all the smaller lessons in between:

• God is constantly and intimately pursuing me even when I'm filthy. Grace.
• The beauty of vulnerability. Unashamed.
• Obedience is greater than sacrifice. Faithful.
• Prayer is EXTREMELY important and powerful. Never weary of praying for the same request over and over again.
• God's promises never change just as He never changes. Trust.

I know these may seem like simple lessons; however, in hind sight, these were all things that I knew (head knowledge) but never truly experienced until now. Also, I believe that many times it's the simple lessons of which God often has to remind us. Know that God is drastically working in my heart right now. As He does, I pray that He will reach your heart so much that you will desire and run after Him like no other. He is our one true love.

My Team: Maye (Mexico), Jorine (Holland), Kelsey (Iowa), Asanda (South Africa)

Thank you for all who listened to the voice of God and helped me get here and thank you all for your prayers-- they mean more than you'll ever know.


I plan to update more often with more in-depth topics for the remaining month, so be sure to check back!