It’s mind-blowing to me how sometimes I can so confidently hear plans from the Lord, yet still allow the enemy into my heart and mind to wreck those plans. The Enemy Epidemic is always spreading, and friends, we are ALL at risk.
Back in February, I stepped out in faith and raised funds for Soles4Souls in celebration of turning 30 this year. It was definitely outside of my comfort zone to ask for donations, but given that the Lord had placed this cause so heavy on my heart, I had faith that He would provide. He did! Coincidentally, 30 friends and family members supported this effort, and it meant so very much to me! Over $1,300 was raised…how amazing is that?! Those funds went towards the Sensabaugh Mission Moon, where hundreds of shoes will be put on the feet of people who can’t afford this simple luxury.
As Zika spread virally across the internet and news streams, the enemy infected my thoughts and faith in the Lord. I paused my plans to attend this trip that so many showed support for. The power to step out in faith and love for those less fortunate was replaced by fear for my own protection. Looking back, I can’t believe that I had such faith to believe the Lord would provide the donations, but suddenly lost that faith in believing and knowing that that Lord would protect me on this trip! 2 Timothy 1:7 says, “God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.” This verse proves that my heart was under attack and deeply infected by fear!
I would say fear is one of the most commonly used weapons of the enemy. He plants the seed, and we let it grow, forgetting that God is always in control. Joshua 1:9 says “Have I not commended you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” The Word of God commands us not to fear, and continually reminds us that God is with us in everything we do! Yet how many times do we continually allow the enemy in to steal this truth from our hearts?
I’m not discounting Zika. It is a very serious illness, especially for men and women who are at childbearing age. I know that agreeing to this trip puts me at risk of contracting this virus, but I am stepping out in faith, believing that the Lord has bigger plans for me on this Mission Trip than to infect me with Zika! I ask that you join me in prayer that I can continue to keep this belief in the coming weeks as I prepare for this trip, and also for strong shields of protection around myself and all of my fellow travelers.
So many variables had to add up for this trip, and the Lord has provided for each need! We obviously needed someone to help Patrick with the kids while I’m away since he is currently working full days at his internship. Patrick’s Mom will be in New York as a camp nurse, which put his Dad at home in Texas alone. His Dad, who is a teacher, usually teaches summer school, but we found out this past week that this year summer school wasn’t in the schools budget. His Dad has agreed to come and visit and watch the kids while Patrick is working! How awesome is this story of continued provision?!
There’s a reason why God placed this cause upon my heart so heavily. There’s a reason why God provided for this experience through donations. There’s a reason why my Father-in-Law’s schedule is open to watch the kids. Friends, there’s a reason I’m supposed to go on this Mission Trip and I’m so excited to learn why! I can’t wait to see how the Lord works through me to serve the people of the Dominican Republic, and I can’t wait to experience the new ways the Lord will grow and transform me through this Mission Trip!
Thank you to all who supported this cause! Your generous hearts have touched me in ways that are difficult to put into words! Donations can still be made on my Soles4Souls Page, and you can also donate shoes. I will be taking an extra bag filled with shoes that we will place on the feet of those who don’t have any! I am so looking forward to sharing this experience with all of you who have helped support me through donations, shoes and continued prayers!
Be Blessed + Be A Blessing
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