One Year!

December 1st marks 1 year that we have been in Malawi! I want to say it’s crazy – but it feels like we’ve just always been here. The Lord has allowed me to live such a full life, that sometimes it feels like I’ve lived several lives…some just memories.

Each time the Lord has brought changes in my life, He has impressed upon my heart a verse for that season.

When we went to Ukraine my mind was prone to discouragement, loneliness, and negativity. The verse He gave me was Philippians 4:8. “Finally, brethren, whatsoever things are true, whatsoever things are honest, whatsoever things are just, whatsoever things are pure, whatsoever things are lovely, whatsoever things are of good report; if there be any virtue, and if there be any praise, think on these things.” He taught me to praise Him no matter what; to dwell on the blessings around me.

When He called us back to the States, my heart was breaking. He stirred my heart with Esther 4:14: “…and who knoweth whether thou art come to the kingdom for such a time as this?”

In the margin of my Bible I wrote, “Who knows whether we have come to America for such a time as this?”

I had been praying for my siblings, and the Lord gave us many opportunities to witness to them. Especially with the recent passing of my brother, I am so grateful for that time!

The Lord also allowed my husband to lead a young man to Christ…who is now our pastor! Truly what a blessing!

As we prepared to go to Malawi, the Lord gently guided me to II Corinthians 12:9: “And he said unto me, My grace is sufficient for thee: for my strength is made perfect in weakness. Most gladly therefore will I rather glory in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.”

Continually He has reminded me of this sweet promise!

As my strength failed – His grace has been sufficient.

As I struggle with words, both in English and in a new language – His grace has been sufficient.

As I lost loved ones – His grace has been sufficient.

In every area He has called me to, He’s always worked through my weaknesses.

Sometimes I get frustrated at my own inabilities, but then I am reminded, it is only then that He may be seen instead of me.

Anything good you see, it’s only Him. May He receive all the glory in my life!