My time in Ethiopia has come to an end. The good bye was hard. Over the past few years I have not stayed in one place for more than one month. My stay in Harbu Chulule Ethiopia was three months. The relationships I formed there were genuine and I’ll miss my family there very much.
During my stay there I got sick. It felt as though my body was shutting down. I had stomach issues that caused me to vomit and have multiple trips to the toilet. I was so weak, getting out of bed was a struggle. I’m a relatively strong person so when I felt as though I just sprinted a mile but really only walked 10 feet, I knew things weren’t good.
In the midst of this I found joy. I remember sitting in my bed giving thanks to God. I realized that even though my body felt like it was dying, my spirit was full. I learned that regardless of what’s going on to my physical self; nothing and no one could take away this feeling of freedom and joy that was radiating inside of me. God taught me that it doesn’t matter what happens to me on the outside, because He is on the inside. He is giving me strength, joy, peace, patients, love. In Him I have all I need. My body can wither away from a disease or be beaten and bruised by those around me. But what nothing can ever take the joy and freedom that’s been given to me. God is living inside of me and there is just nothing anyone can do to take Him away. He gives me joy and happiness everyday of my life. All I have to do is look to Him. Just stop and look to what He has done.
That’s the encouragement I have to give. Friends it doesn’t matter what’s going on around us or to us. Because we have the God of all creation by our side. Let’s keep our focus on Him. Matthew 6:33 says “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added to you.” To sum that up it says look to God and His love for you first and everything else will come. I learned this through a small amount of suffering. And I can proudly say that one of my favorite times in Ethiopia was when I was stuck in bed with my Heavenly Father be my side. Trust Him, seek Him, He is not going anywhere. We can find Him anytime any place. He is all around us.
He is the way the truth and the life (John 14:6)
Thank you all for your love and support. I’m only around $1,000 away from being fully funded for this time of leading. I would love your prayers as I only have 3 months left. I know God has a wonderful plan for me and I trust Him. And I want to continue to walk in obedience and trust.
Love you guys. Let God bless you today 🙂
I’m glad you are feeling better and thankful you did not have to suffer alone. Thank you for your example. Love you!
You trusted God in spite of the circumstances, a wonderful testomy of your faith and trust in God. So glad you are better. I pray for physical strength & healing.??