VL part 5 {The Lessons}

I’m not going to lie...there were some really hard days during our village stay. Though space doesn’t allow, God was teaching us, molding us, changing us...I truly pray all for His ultimate glory. 

(Admittedly, I always don’t like how He goes about bringing this change, but...He’s in control and thankfully, I am not!)

I didn’t bring too many “extra” things to the village but I made sure I had my Bible and “Jesus Calling” devotional by Sarah Young. Every day seemed to challenge me, but it was the April 17th devotional that hit me square in the face:

“TRUST ME, and don’t be afraid. Many things feel out of control. Your routines are not running smoothly. You tend to feel more secure when your life is predictable. Let me lead you to the rock that is higher than you and your circumstances. Take refuge in the shelter of my wings, where you are abundantly secure. 

When you are shaken out of your comfortable routines, grip My hand tightly and look for growth opportunities. Instead of bemoaning the loss of your comfort, accept the challenge of something new. I lead you on from glory to glory, making you fit for My kingdom. Say yes to the ways I work in your life. Trust me, and don’t be afraid.”

And everyday there are verses associated with the devotion. The one that threw me in to tears on this day was Psalms 61:2-4 

“From the end of the earth I call to you when my heart is faint. Lead me to the rock that is higher than I for you have been my refuge...”

I clung to this verse on the hard days praying, hoping that the Lord would hear my heart even though I had inadequate words. Of course, He heard and answered those prayers...maybe not how I thought He would, but He did it in a way that we would be able to see Him at work even more. 

Were these lessons just a waste? I truly believe the answer is no. God never wastes our time (or His!) growing, teaching and stretching us. There’s a purpose and His plan behind it all...I just have to wait and see what He wants to do next.