We are so thankful for how you have supported us in prayer during our time in Ethiopia. We are thankful for how many of you express your continued prayer support.
When we left, I let you know that we were feeling God’s direction to explore the possibility of working as missionaries in Ethiopia. So, now that were back, I should have a nice clean answer for you, right?
I have been debating on how to word this and have decided that gut-level honesty is the best. I am not good at pretending for long.
For the months that we have been praying, praying and praying about this, I was able to hold things pretty relaxed. Not that I didn’t have my moments of panic and many moments of fear and feeling overwhelmed, but overall, I could let it play out. In my thoughts, this trip was going to answer all our questions and give us a clear and concrete plan on moving forward. Jon is going to be done with his job shortly, etc.
Well. We had our questions answered but for each question answered, at least two more were raised. I can start feeling discouraged, frustrated and even panicky that God has not operated on my timetable. However, this lasts only for a few minutes as I reflect on how God confirmed Himself to us in so many ways while we were in Ethiopia, ways in which I wasn’t even asking.
So, here we are, loads of questions but still knowing we should be moving forward and in this direction. It’s good, in-the-I-am-scared-but-praying-everyday-for-increased-faith kind of way.
I was recently reminded of the faith of Abraham and his testimony has strengthened us. “Now the LORD said to Abram, "Go from your country and your kindred and your father’s house to the land that I will show you…so Abram went…Genesis 12:1-4
As we contemplate our own “far country”, we rejoice in knowing that we serve the God of Abraham. He has been faithful and we trust He will continue to be.
7 comments:
My Bible study reading this morning was all about responsiblity. I hope I'm not imposing if I share with you a few things I read this morning:
"Responsibility is often defined as our response to God's ability. To be responsible is to respond to the opportunities that God has placed in front of us."
"When the Lord asks his people to do something, there is a temptation to wait for a "convenient season" (Ecclesiastes 11:4, Acts 24:25) There is always a tendency to hold back until it wont cost anything or be so difficult. I encourage you to be a person who is not afraid of responsiblity. In meeting resistance you will build your strength. If you only do what is easy, you will always remain weak. God expects you (and me) to be responsible and to take care of everything he gives us-to do something that will produce good fruit. If we do not use the gifts and talents that He has given us, then we are not being responsible over what He has entrusted to us"
All taken from Battlefield of the Mind by Joyce Meyer.
Don't know if that is encouraging or not, but I meant it to be :) Praying for you as you make the hard decisions and face the upcoming challenges!
i was hoping to chat with you last night, so it's good to read your update.
I can only imagine how overwhelming all of the questions, worries and plan making are. You'll continue to be in our prayers as God continues to move you forward.
praying for you guys . . .
love this..
I am so excited to see how and where God leads ya'll! Keep praying and seeking Him...He'll be faithful to show you!!!
You guys are an encouragement to me. I will continue to pray for your family.
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