I Shouldn't Be Surprised...

I shouldn't be surprised at the Lord's faithful provision. For those of you who have been following my journeys for a while, you may remember how the Lord miraculously brought in all the finances last minute for my husband's and my mission trip to East Asia. (If you haven't and want to read it, you can check it out here: https://ofgodjpg.com/is-two-weeks-worth-it/) I always treasure that experience in my heart and therefore was not worried about raising money for this mission trip.

However, when the support slowed and I put 2.5 grand on my credit card for the international plane tickets, I slipped into the sin of worrying about my personal finances. If God wanted me to empty my savings for this, I would obey. I knew that He would provide. But how would He provide? Better yet, when? I seemed to forget that God works in His timing, not mine. He isn't bound by the monthly bills, and He works at the eleventh hour.

My pastor asked me to speak at church about the mission trip to Tanzania. As a member, it seemed very natural to say yes, even though I abhor public speaking in front of adults. I knew God was stretching me, especially when my pastor asked me to speak at THREE services. I needed to remember that it was about God and His glory, not anything about me.

Well, I survived even with talking too fast and stumbling through too many "um"s because there were so many eyeballs staring at me. I actually wasn't asking for funds, trusting that God would move people's hearts if it was His will.

And it was! As I said, I shouldn't be shocked by the Lord's provision and blessings. But I had already submitted to paying the rest and was leaving in five days anyways. I am amazed and thankful for the Lord's generosity through my church family. I had many people that I had never met before approach me and ask how they could give! One other thing I have to share because I've only read about it happening – one brother in Christ introduced himself and asked how much was left. I started to give him my vague answer of, "Oh, just some travel costs," when the Holy Spirit LOUDLY instructed me, "Tell him." I did, and he responded, "Okay, I can do that. I can donate that amount."

To which I stuttered, "What? You're joking." (He wasn't.) I fumbled with writing down my information, feeling embarrassed but very humbled.

So here I am – fully funded because the Lord loves me and never ceases to show me that. I hope this story brings you some encouragement. And here I am – on a plane! Traveling to a new country for a new adventure and praying simply to be used for God's work.

Thank you all for your prayers of safe travels. I'll leave you with a funny modified song from DreamWorks Madagascar for those of you who have seen it…

Da, da, da, da, da (x2)

Start spreading the news!

I'm leaving today!

We are a great big part of it!

(Come on, just two little words…)

GOD'S KINGDOM!!