I grew so much in Costa Rica. I felt the growth, the last couple weeks there and I felt closer and more in step with the Spirit than I ever have before. I was so excited about all the things the Lord brought up and gave me strength to surrender to Him.
We arrive here safely in Medellin, Colombia. And somehow this change has unraveled so much of the growth I felt last month. This city is as different as it could be from our little farm in Los Chiles. I feel close to helpless in this busy city that is known and defined for its brokenness. I think it will take a couple more days to adjust. Insecurity and lies from the enemy have come in full swing, I am reminded that I must walk in constant surrender to the Lord.
“Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert…. To give drink to my chosen people, the people who I formed for myself that they might declare my praise.”
Isaiah 43:18-21
In order for there to be a new thing, the old thing has to die. I think I am holding things emotionally and mentally that are not mine to carry. Jesus invites me to give all my worries and insecurities to Him, funny how it’s still hard.
But watch out, God is doing a new thing! He always makes a way for His people. He is making a beautiful path for me to walk in in this place. He is making a way, I only need to go.
I am excited to watch God continue to turn this wilderness into a way to Him. I am excited to watch Him turn this spiritual desert into a flowing river of living water.
This passage was written to the Israelites, but it’s also for us. I am part of God’s chosen people. He made me for Himself that I might declare His praise. Instead of trying to measure how well I am doing here by how quickly we work in ministry or by the weight of all we are learning, what if I measured my time here by how much Jesus is declared, and how much God is praised.
Maybe living life for Jesus is as simple as declaring His praise through action.
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God”
1 Corinthians 10:31
Dear, beautiful Lauren,
God is with you, before you and using you for His purposes. Do not question where He is taking you because you are His beloved child and He has your best interest in His heart. Depend on the host of angels surrounding you and the uninterrupted prayer support coming your way. Love you!!!!
Love you Lauren. Thank you for this sweet, honest post. I love that last bit “maybe it’s as simple as declaring His praise through action”!! I love it, it’s a sweet and encouraging reminder.
I love this Lauren! It makes me so so happy and praise the Lord for the amount of growth you’re having on the race! He continually brings us closer and closer to His heart!
Lauren, this is so insightful. What a beautiful outlook you have. I love how you’re watching “God continue to turn this wilderness into a way to Him”.