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Flooded

 
it’s not always a bad thing

 
I have conquered training camp! These past five days have completely blown me away. My teammates and leaders have become some of my best friends already….and we haven’t even left yet.
 
Sitting in the airport, I am reminded of all that has happened these past few days. When we arrived at camp on Friday, we all were able to settle into our tents and hang out. That ended up being an adventure. Saturday, Sunday, and Monday were super rainy. All of the tents flooded. It turned out to be the best thing that could happen. We were all able to sleep in a room together rather than 4-5 people per tent. So much fun happened these nights. The next morning was when it all really began. 
 
Our first session focused on our identity. Sometimes we hide behind a mask so others don’t get a chance to see who we are. For me, I learned that my mask is always trying to have it all together and fit a mold that people expect of me. The night before, one of our leaders shared a word with us. God had provided her with the word CHOSEN. Having heard both of these things, I realized that the person my mask was hurting most was me. 
 
During a listening prayer session, some of my teammates expressed things that I had kept hidden behind my mask. The best one was that I am a hot air balloon. It takes fire and wind to propel it-those are God and His Spirit. But I’m not floating yet. I have heavy sandbags keeping me on the ground no matter how hard the fire roars. It took this example for me to realize that God can only work in my life if I release my control. 
 
So back to CHOSEN. This word has been my word for this past week. The first few days I was being broken for God. He showed me that if I give in to Him, He will do something I can’t even imagine. CHOSEN reminds me that no matter my mask, God chose me, and my team, because of who we truly are on the inside. 
 
The next few days were overwhelming in such a peaceful way. I had let go of all that was holding me back. I was finally FREE. Do you know what it’s like to be able to stand before God knowing he sees you and reaches for you? It is one of the most amazing feelings ever. 
 
When I think about a flood. I no longer see it as a bad thing. The physical downpour has brought my team so much closer. We are truly a family. Being flooded spiritually is the best feeling ever. You break down at times, but you are so overwhelmed by the feelings of Gods love that it doesn’t hurt as much. To me, getting flooded this week is the best thing that could have ever happened. 
 
I challenge you to figure out what your mask is. Ask God to provide you with a word, verse, picture, etc. to show you how He sees you. 
 
Thank you for all who have supported me through this process. I can’t wait to see what God is gonna do during this month. I’m praying that He reveals Himself to all of you guys in a new way. 
 
Don’t be afraid. Just jump. 
 
TEAM UPDATE: Its travel day! We’re headed to ATL where we will begin our journey to India. We have 2 long days ahead so please be praying for rest and that we all stay healthy. Please keep the people of India in your prayers as well. Our prayer is that they will receive us with open hearts and arms! See y’all soon!
 
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