He is sovereign. He loves me. He knows me. He knows what I need to learn.

Hi blogging world!

I'm back home in Pontiac now after a wonderful month of training in North Carolina. The training program was FULL of helpful information and skills that I will need on the field but here are a few things that really stuck out to me:
-In studying Ephesians, I was reminded of who I am in Christ. Understanding my identity in Christ determines the trajectory for my life. What a priviledge to realize that I am adopted, chosen, loved, and forgiven. And what a priviledge to share with children who don't know WHO they are or WHO they belong to- to be able to introduce them to Christ and give them a new identity...
-God has a specific ordained path that he has laid out for me based on my personality, gifting, and experiences. Jesus is my example- He knew who he was- and he was totally free to give his life and serve.
-God is sovereign. He is completely in control and he will never leave us or forsake us. But Gods kingdom is often forwarded by suffering. In whatever circumstance, God will provide perfectly so that I can suffer well to glorify Him. Whatever God calls me to do, even if it involves suffering, he will equip me and has given me all the resources I need. Above all, God's glory is worth everything.
- When there is conflict, I should admit when I am wrong, assume the other person's story is bigger than what I can see, and ask God what He wants me to learn about Himself.
-Moral purity must be a top priority
-Spiritual maturity is fundamental but if you neglect culture you might not love people the way they feel loved.
-In many cross cultural situations, I need to ask myself, "What is more important- the relationship or my time?"
-Conflict resolution- be aware of my own feelings, pray first, and don't assume I know what the other person thinks/feels.
-I need to put on the FULL ARMOR OF GOD every day.
-A servant is often called to walk in mystery, but the Master knows the big picture.
-In meeting with a Dominican lady to help us with Spanish, she told me this, "I wish someone would have told me as a young girl that God was always with me. I didn't know that- It would have made a world of difference." I think this is what God is calling me to do.

Thank you for praying for me, especially this last month at training. This time was so valuable for what I need to prepare and to be spiritually and emotionally healthy while I am overseas.
I am with my family for this month, getting ready to leave on OCTOBER 2!