Thursday, March 10, 2016

Letting My Faith be Bigger Than My Fear

This post was inspired by my "Love Wins" sweatshirt from the new Promise line by 
Covenant Gear

Have you ever felt like something was missing?  The past couple of years, I have felt that way, even though I live a pretty charmed life.  I know that it was mostly my fault, because even though I was active in church, I was not truly seeking God in my daily walk.


I had a bit of a spiritual awakening around a year and a half ago.  I attended BigStuf camp with our youth at church, and it was an amazing week of worship and being around others who were hungry for God.  The theme was "Your Story" and how you are meant for amazing things in God's wonderful story.  I came back rejuvenated and ready to pursue God's plan for my life! (whatever that was...)  I have tried to sustain that "camp high" through daily devotionals, attending other youth retreats, and prayer.

I started earnestly praying for God to use me in some way...to give me a calling that was fulfilling in my personal life.  At my church, I am director of VBS and our weekly AWANA program, which is a Bible club for kids.  I honestly love working with these programs and feel like this is one of my callings.  Yet, personally and professionally, something was still missing.  I continued to pray and read my Bible and seek answers, but nothing major happened until about 6 months ago.  People always say "Be careful what you pray for because you might get it!" and this is true.  A recent call from my Pastor about a possible opportunity left me in tears...happy tears because my prayers were being answered, but scared tears because it would force me out of my comfort zone.

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. (Philippians 4:6-7)

It's so amazing the ways that God works in little ways, bringing people into your life for the purpose of His plan.  I had been wanting to start a blog for a while to write about our home renovation projects, but I never did anything about it.  After winning a contest on a blog, I started an email friendship with the blogger and she gave me the encouragement to take the first step and start posting.  Once I started blogging, I loved it!  I met other wonderful bloggers that have given me encouragement along the way and advice on how to eventually make money from my blog so that I may be able to pursue other opportunities that God has in store for me.  Through blogging, I have won christian books and devotionals that have helped me in my faith journey and  I have been able to share my faith with others in a way that is hard for me to do in person.

There are several other things that are happening in my life right now, that I look forward to telling you about soon!  I believe these things are more pieces of the puzzle falling into place.  I am trying to have a BIG faith and trust God to guide me, even when I cannot see where the path in front of me leads.  Even though I have anxiety over the unknown, I also feel an overwhelming sense of peace, which I think is God's way of confirming this is His plan for my life.  He has always provided for me and I trust he will continue during this next chapter of my story!
Covenant Gear sweatshirt
If you want to remind the world of God's promises, check out the line of inspirational shirts over at Covenant Gear's online store.  I am wearing the Love Wins Eco-fleece Sweatshirt, which is an off-the-shoulder fit with a vintage look and kangaroo pocket in the front.

Disclosure : Shirt was received at a discount from Covenant Gear and all opinions are my own.

How has God been faithful in your life?


7 comments:

  1. This is what I really needed to read and I am beyond thankful to you for writing it, Mary. I definitely need to work better on my prayer life and studying the Scriptures more frequently. I guess all Christians go through similar things but it's amazing to have that spiritual awakening! So many distractions around us, so many commitments and things to be done - but we must keep our eyes focused on the Lord. I don't believe in coincidences but I know that this post of yours came just at the right timing for me, honey. So thank you soooo much for sharing it!
    After hubby and I relocated we had to go to a different church closer to where we are currently renting. The problem is they are not active at all and it seems like nothing is happening. It's so disheartening and we don't see people coming in. We tried to be initiative but often get indifferent response. We keep praying about it. I need more prayer, I need more studying and reading. God's plan is beautiful no matter what and I will also join you in the same way and ask for His guidance in order to use me to His glory <3
    Sorry for an essay of a comment, lovely. Thankful for you, your blog & your friendship!
    God is always faithful!
    xox Nadia
    http://www.mielandmint.com/

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    1. Nadia, I am so glad to hear that! I was nervous about writing this at first, but I figure we all share the same struggles and should encourage each other. I can see how it is disheartening to be in a stale church...if you are not meant to be there, I hope you are able to find the church you are supposed to be at. I will pray for you and your husband..that God will lead you to the right place. You are correct that His plan is beautiful, sometimes, it takes us a while to see it! Take care my lovely friend and thanks for your kind and encouraging words!
      XOX Mary

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    2. You are the best! Thank you so much, lovely. Really appreciate your continuous prayers <3
      xox N.

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  2. Hey Mary,
    I found your post today on While I'm Waiting, and I'm glad to connect with you.
    I love the idea of praying BIG... of asking God to do exceedingly abundantly beyond!
    I'm sharing your post today, and I've followed you on social media.
    Hope you have a blessed day~
    Melanie

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    1. Thank you so much! I was worried about doing this post...it has not gotten as much love as my others, but that's OK. If i can just inspire 1 or 2 people than I have achieved my goal. I am learning that great things can happen when you let go and let God!

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  3. Thank you Mary for sharing this post! I am going through a trying time right now where I am having to fully put my faith in God and not let my own understanding get in the way. It reminds me of that challenge where you have two people stand behind you and you fall into their arms. Before we even begin to lean back, we have to have complete faith that they won't let us fall on our behind! This is the kind of faith in God that I am seeking through prayer so that my worries are eased. The scripture you posted - Philippians 4:6-7 - is exactly what I needed to hear ~ so thank you! Another one that comes to mind (speaking of leaning!) is Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart; and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct your paths.

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    1. Erin, thank you so much...I was nervous about sharing this post. It is hard to let go and put your faith fully in God (I struggle daily!) and the unknown, but I think it helps when you have friends and verses to be encouraged by. I love that verse as well...and I will be praying for you my friend!

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