Friday, July 6, 2012

Even in the Valley you are faithful…- July 5, 2012

…you’re working for our good and for your glory.

I have listened to one of my favorite songs, Sovereign OverUs, by Aaron Keys, several times since my arrival here. Tonight, this lyric was ringing in my head…

Today started off with discouragement…it’s my grandpa’s 80th birthday, I missed the 4th of July festivities, and I wasn’t necessarily homesick, I really just wanted to be in two places at once.  Before my Kikuyu lesson I read through Proverbs 31 and was encouraged by several verses that talk about preparation and diligence, which reminded me that THIS day is profitable…there is purpose in waiting to go to my placement. I was also reminded of legacy living, (see my proverbs 31 post from last year) and how that starts today.  Being a wife and mother of character starts right now…character is formed out of habits. The things I am doing today are preparing me for the future God’s calling me to and the specific plans he has for me. Thankfully, these thoughts were further confirmed through a conversation with my Cousin and close friend Grace, as well as through a very encouraging email. In the discouragement of this morning God provided the encouragement I needed throughout the day.

Back to the song, this lyric not only describes today, but also the season before coming to Nairobi. I had been in a “dry/silent” season in my walk with God, as previous posts have indicated, but since being here I can see how He was “faithful in the valley…working for (my) good and for (His) glory”. I needed that season of walking by faith, not by sight. In hindsight, I can see how it prepared me to trust in this immediate time that is full of unknowns; culture shock, rural life, and overall change. I am anchored on the one who does not change because I have seen His provision and faithfulness in the past. The times of silence are faith building when we persevere. I have faith that He is purposeful in every unknown of life. I can trust His provision for today and the future in light of his character and provision in the past. Today, I was also encouraged by my Kikuyu teacher when she articulated that “you are going to encourage so many people with disabilities. You will talk with them and they will be encouraged by meeting you”. I was so grateful for the reminder that my disability is purposeful. Jesus is so faithful in our valleys. He is constantly working for our good and for His glory.

No comments:

Post a Comment