And we know that God causes all things to work together for good to those who love God, to those who are called according to His purpose. For those whom He foreknew, He also predestined to become conformed to the image of His Son...Romans 8:28-29a (NASB)
This would be one of those posts that are from my heart. It is hard to believe that one year has now arrived since I moved and began a new life in Missouri. It has not been an easy year on many fronts, but because God is sovereign I know that all that has happened has been intentional and for my growth and heart change.
I would say that by far the hardest change for me this past year has been returning to the full time work force. For the past many years I was in ministry, "working" as a Biblical Counselor and such. Moving here meant I needed to get a "real job" and I confess that for most of the year my heart simply was buried under a blanket of misery.
God at times calls upon us to do things that do not make sense to us, things that seem so grievous to us emotionally. I was never ever returning to the field of work I am currently in! Such a bold proclamation for a child of God is foolish, I have learned. Because I have no claim over my life I must go and do what God asks of me lest I become entirely useless to Him out of disobedience and rebellion.
God has used my job to work on my sinful heart. He has revealed to me that while I believed certain things about myself, that I had somehow "arrived" spiritually in various areas- I have not. He has shown me that I am not so strong as I think (thought) and that nothing good lives in me, that is in my flesh (Rom. 7:15-24). I am actually surprised that I still struggle with certain sins! Hahaha what a fool I am!
I desire to be God's woman, and live a life that glorifies Him in every respect. I desire to be a light in a very dark world and to serve my fellow Christians with my life and through this ministry and my counseling ministry. That is one thing that has not changed in this past year. My heart aches to return to full time ministry service...
I have been greatly encouraged by YOU this past year. Did you know that when I see you have clicked on this blog and read my teaching and left me a comment I am greatly encouraged? Some of you have been reading since the beginning and others are new friends who have come by "accident" or "chance" or because someone else told you about the blog. You encourage me, reading friends and I thank you.
So, a new year begins for us in Missouri and with it a whole new set of changes that are sure to bring about more challenges and encouragement. You will notice a new logo on the blog! Reigning Grace Counseling Center is our new Biblical Counseling center in Missouri and very soon we will be a non-profit organization. You can check it out at: www.r-g-c-c.org.
I would ask for your prayers in this, as it is a huge undertaking for us. Onward to Year Two in Missouri!