Blog #1... Catchy I know..

So im starting a blog... (obviously).. I've always thought about starting one but never really thought people would want to read it.. today I say what the hay!?! lol I really like to journal and enjoy sharing what God is teaching me each day. We all need encouragment right?

Well for starters, I just got back from a missions trip to Guatemala about 2 weeks ago. It was only my second missions trip and definatly not my last! I absolutly love going on these trips. I learn so much about the Lord- His love, his truth, his mercy, his grace. We are surrounded by it every single day but never seem to notice it as much as you do when you are on these trips. This year seemed to make me focus more on my relationship with God. When you go off to another country to do His work, you generally have a point of reflection time. This year was a bit different. It was more like an evaluation. Where I am spiritually, what I need to give up, what I need to embrace more of, what is next for me... One of the verses from our devotional on the trip that really stuck with me was

 Ecclesiastes 11:4- Whoever watches the wind will not plant; whoever looks at the clouds will not reap. -

In another words:

If you wait for perfect conditions, you will never get anything done.

This really hit home for me personally. I cant tell you how many times I sit back and wait for a "perfect time" or an easier way. I mean I know God has done mericles in my life and im so greatful.. but what miricles am I working on each and every day for him and his kingdom?

If you always choose the easy way, asking for the peaceful valleys, you will never see God's power displayed to enable you to take a mountain. Seek out the mountains, and you will witness God doing things through your life that can be explained only by His mighty presence. - H.R. Blackaby

Ever feel like your on a rollercoaster that wont end? I mean it may be fun and all.. your got your hands up screaming laughing the whole time just focused on that ride your on. Yup its called... routines and distractions and thats a huge struggle for me. Dont get me wrong.. I love my life and like I said God has been amazing to me since I gave my life to him. But when does that "give my life to him" part really come into play? Thats what convicted me most on this trip. Its always an awesome feeling to wake up each day knowing that you are going to go do things for Christ and Him alone. Why is that feeling so great on these trips and at home more of a hit or miss feeling.. I mean, as christians who have vowed to give our lives to Christ, that should be a normal everyday feeling right? ....

I have a little devotional that I keep at work that I really enjoy..
(i'll probably throw alot of them on here actually..)

Today's mini-devo:

Proverbs 23:19- Listen, my son, and be wise, and keep your heart on the right path.

The Quakers were taught to pray each night before they went to sleep. And they were also taught to pray on awakening each morning to seek divine wisdom by coming up with a fresh list of what they could do that day. The new day might be a virtual repeat of the day before, but not necessarily! The morning news comes on. An unexpected phone call interupts. A conversation takes place that results in a new idea-and your priorities bend to accomodate it. Providence has a way of challenging our carefully planned day with uninvited and unexpected fresh possibilities. So make a new priority list ever morning. You'll be surprised at how frequently your priorities can and should be urgently, wisely, and even compassionatly revised.

<3

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So my encouragement today...when you say you've given your life to Christ.. dont just say it... LIVE IT .. :)