Not mine, but His

Well its funny how we think we have totally surrendered our life to Jesus, until He makes us give something up.  North Myrtle may have been one of the best things for me--it's challenged me in unbelievable ways, I have been experiencing spiritual growth, been surrounded by a community that is like no other--yet in one phone call, it has all been taken away.  I am now home, still trying to let the reality of it all sink in.  It's been two days since my dad called to tell me that I had to come home because of my mom's health.  I still have no answers to all of the WHY questions I have running through my head.  Why would God put me in a position of leadership, one in which I would be stretched and pushed out of my comfort zone, only to have to give it up? Why would I have to leave just as I was beginning to finally develop those deep, lasting friendships? Why would He take me from a community where I am constantly being challenged and encouraged to deepen my walk with Him? I was taking that leap of faith--giving up a summer to share the Gospel with those on the beach, at my worksite, in the city--why would that be taken from me?! 

The past six weeks have seriously been the best I have ever had. And while I may not understand the direction of my future, I am so thankful for the experiences of my past.  God has truly blessed me through my time at North Myrtle, and I don't doubt his will for my life.  

Blessings from this summer=)

1. My roommate Tina.  She is such a beautiful person, someone who imitated Christ in everything she did.  We had some great nights, just staying up late and talking about anything and everything--even if she had to work at 5:45 in the morning. Sorry Tina Fab=) 

2. My bible study and impact group! Our bible study of girls was simply amazing. Each one of the girls hold a place in my heart.  They are all true women of God, seeking after Him in all that they do.  They each are special and unique in ways that make me love them each individually and unconditionally! Our impact group includes our girls bible study, and then one of the guys bible study.  These guys are great--haha so many good memories.  They treated us to a picnic in the park as kindergartners! We had lunchables and juice boxes, and played duck duck goose, and of course Red Rover--which like always, ended up with a bloody lip=)--. We had a shaving cream war which ended up being a trip to the ocean to rinse off, a waterballoon fight, and an evening dressed as old people. So fun! These guys were truly a blessing--totally seeking after God and were great brothers in Christ! 

3. My girl, Kelsey, who even though we didn't talk much in the beginning=), rocked my world once we became friends.  I know that our friendship is for life, and though I miss her like crazy now, I can't wait to see her again.  She taught me so much about life and God, and I am SOOOO thankful for her and her insight.  I have soo many great memories with her, ha I could go on for hours.

4. My walk with God and growth in Him grew tremendously.   He taught me things and showed me things in my life that needed to change--things that have been rooted in me since I was a young girl.  It has encouraged me to continue to walk in the Spirit, be in the Word, constantly seeking Him through everything, and spend time with Him daily.

5. The community in North Myrtle was unexplainable.  I was constantly surrounded by people who loved the Lord, were constantly seeking Him out, and had a burning desire to share His love and sacrifice with those around them.  They each had a servants heart-Christ's heart-and I am so thankful to met each and every one of them. 

*Christa *Lynsey *Anna *Jena *Karen *Hannah *Lindsay *Bekah *Kristin *Ali *Annalise  

So while this is all messed up and unexpected, I am so thankful for the experience God has allowed me to have thus far this summer.  I just have to continue to trust Him, and though it is easier said than done, I have no doubt that He will take care of me.  Because we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to His purpose. (Romans 8:28).