Well, it’s 18 days until we leave for Fiji and I would love to say that I’m 100% ready and rearing to go but to be honest, I don’t feel that way at all.
At the moment I’m being reminded just how important it is to rely on God’s strength.
It says in Phil 4:13 that “I can do anything though him who gives me strength.” Therefore, I have faith that God will give me the strength for this trip. Not only physically but emotionally and spiritually as well – regardless of all the other pressures and struggles that surround.
In this knowledge, I’m taking one day at a time and enjoying the ‘waiting’ time we are currently in. I love being still and allowing God to prepare and inspire me even if it’s just enough for each day. In Psalm 46:10 we are told to “Be still and know that I am God.”
For me, at the moment, being still is surviving but I need to remember that being still is also thriving. In John 15:5 Jesus says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
My desire is to glorify God and bear much fruit on this Encounter trip but I know that without staying connected to the vine, without abiding in our loving, protecting, nourishing, inspiring, equipping, and life-giving God, nothing of value can be achieved.
When I read this, I am encouraged. I know that all God is asking is for me to hang out with him, to stay connected and to lean willingly into him. While I am still and centered in our awesome God, I have nothing to fear and I know God will give me all I need to be effective for him on this Encounter trip.
I am so thankful for this – what a gracious God!
Sarah W.
Encounter Fiji 2012 