My time fundraising so far feels so vulnerable, like I am getting open-heart surgery and everyone is watching. I am opening myself up to criticism and failure and loss so I can follow the Lord into the unknown.
“…”If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it” (Matthew 16:24-25)
I am praying that my faith would be bigger than my fear. I am praying that I would not rely on what I see around me in the world, or what I can reason, but on God’s promises to love me, be with me, go before me and hold my hand.
I am praying that I would decide everyday to choose the Lord. To surrender what I see and what I reason so I may be able to see the Lord moving and working.
I am not following Jesus because its reasonable, I follow Him because He is Worthy.
There was a time this month when I thought I was quitting. Leaving, postponing, saying ‘no’ to God. He would still love me if I said ‘no”. It does not make sense to go now.
“You know you’ll get sick if you go, right?”
“Don’t you understand what is going on in the world?”
“Now is the worst time to travel.”
It’s been easy for me become defensive as I wonder at God’s timing. I have been wisely reminded that it is not my job to defend the Lord or His timing.
It is my job to obey Him.
God has been so, so faithful during this past month. I feel known and celebrated when I take even little steps of progress. He is so Good, He is moving so powerfully!
I have loved connecting with old and new friends. I have loved hearing updates and stories of what everyone is up to, how everyone is managing, learning and resting during this strange time.
I am eager to continue praying, learning and growing. Don’t hesitate to reach out and send prayer requests my way!
Lauren, I am so inspired and touched by your sweet spirit, openness to God’s voice and calling and willingness to trust Him with your life. I hear and see the growth happening over the last year as you have wrestled with the calling to follow Him into this mission field.
Jim and I will be praying daily for you starting now (actually have for a long time) and are happy to contribute financially toward your trip. I know you are working to raise funds too and appreciate your having skin in the game. I’m sure God will honor and multiply your efforts.
I look forward to reading more about your journey as you follow Jesus.
I love your??????
Thank you Jana! I have been so encouraged by your wisdom and support, I am excited for the journey 🙂
Lauren, you inspire me every day with your grace and gentleness when it comes to leading the life God planned for you. I’m so excited to watch you and support you through this journey of spiritual and emotional growth. You have set a wonderful example of what it means to listen to the Holy Spirit. You have all of my support and love!
Lauren your wisdom and maturity in the Lord blow me away!! I am sooooo excited to be with you on this journey, as we see God part the red sea, as we see him provide for you not only financially, but emotionally and physically! You are the salt and light of the earth and you shine bright girl! I love how vulnerable, raw and real you are! God will bless each moment of this as you continue to obey and draw near to him 🙂 You are beautiful my friend!
Love reading these, your mission work has already begun by the testimony you are giving now! Praying lots!