When God Speaks

If only I could slow down enough to truly hear our sweet Savior speak. His love is overwhelming, his word is powerful, He is!

As I've continued to pray about the possibility of a mission trip for Josie-Tatum and me, I've heard from God through His word and through a faithful servant.

In the book of Mark, I read a familiar verse, but felt more convicted than ever before. In Chapter 6, I read, "And he could there do no mighty work, save that he laid his hands up9on a few sick folk, and healed them. And he marveled because of their unbelief." Can you imagine Jesus "marveling?" I know the unbelief of the people of Nazareth did not take him by surprise, but it caused him to marvel.

I thought of Ellie when I read this nearly 3 weeks ago. I pondered the times my unbelief may have hindered his work. When I have worried about Ellie, has He marveled? And, then tonight, the Holy Spirit brought this passage to my remembrance again. Could it be my lack of faith that makes me hesitant to commit to the mission trip to South Africa? I am convinced now, more than ever, that my God will provide where He leads.

And, last week, I went to Katie's blog. If you have never heard of Katie, you must follow the link here, and read her post from March 4th. What a challenging, take me out of my comfort zone thought. When Jesus said, "Sell all that you have, and give it to the poor," what if he wasn't kidding? You have to see Katie's photos for the full impact of that question.

As a child of the KING, I don't beleive in coincidence. I teach 1st-3rd graders in Sunday School. I didn't get to teach the lesson, because Josie-Tatum was sick, but I was struck with awe when the lesson for the week was the same scripture Katie referred to. I was compelled to ask, "God, what are YOU telling me?"

Then, just in case I hadn't heard the message loud and clear, I turned on the radio Monday morning, and the program on the radio was based on the same scripture.

So, I've really begun to ask myself...am I serious about God's command to care for orphans? Do I trust Him to provide for them? Am I willing to sacrifice until it hurts? Will I give of my abundance, or share my necessities?

If you'd like to continue to help me pray, here's the latest revision of my prayer request. I will go to South Africa, or anywhere the LORD leads. I'm waiting to hear from Stan...aka my husband. He hasn't heard from God yet, as I have certainly asked him to pray. This may come as a surprise to some of you (well, not my immediate family, or close friends, or distant relatives), but I have trouble with submission. I know, I know, you're all in shock. I am totally committed to Stan's decision on this issue, though. I know that I know that, if God wants Josie-Tatum and me to go to South Africa this summer, He will speak to Stan. So, will you help me pray that Stan hears from the LORD? Will you pray that I will remain willing to follow his lead?

Thank you for your prayers. I continue to read God's word, to hear Him speak. Thank you for your prayers for Josie-Tatum. She slept last night and only woke up once. I thought she might make it to school tomorrow, but her fever went back up some this afternoon.

AND...BIG SHOUT OUT PRAISE! ALEKSEY HAS A FAMILY! Another child with spina bifida has found a family, willing to accept the unknowns, willing to love the child!!!!

Blessings,
Robbie