Your word is a lamp unto my feet.

Lately, I have realized the importance of proclaiming the Lord’s promises and truths over me. I know that is such a weird phrase and sounds pretty simplistic. But I have learned the power in remembering, even saying out-loud, proclaiming the truths of God and the promises he holds for me. This isn’t something I remember learning in Sunday school but I really wish they would’ve taught me. The Word of God is powerful if we let it affect us- if we truly hear it and let it soak in to the deepest parts of us.  It strengthens and encourages. There is power in thinking of and declaring who God is over whatever you face. Remember his promises and give God freedom to let those truths work in you. 

Here are a few things that I have been proclaiming over my life. Yes they are pretty simple truths but they rock me to the very core….

Nothing I can ever do or say will separate me from the love of God. He loves me as I am today and will love me the same tomorrow.

All of my sin was forgiven on the cross. 

Jesus is the same yesterday, today and tomorrow.

I can trust the Lord; He will take care of me.

 

What truths are you remembering/proclaiming?

My favorites about starting school:

1. Being back with friends, all together and happy.

2. Back to school shopping- thankfully with the parent’s money.

3. Newness- classes, friends, roomies!, internship

4. Being with all my stuff (not to sound materialistic but its been in storage all summer and it’ll be like being home again)

5. Cooking, buying groceries and being a real grown, independent person again.

6. MEW or Mission Emphasis Week

7. Seeing my elderly friends… hopefully….

8. Not knowing what’s in store for this year

 

what about you?

I’m coming home really soon.

I’m wrapping up my summer here. In some ways, I’m thrilled and others I could stay here much longer. Today, Sarah and I hung out with two girls from the apartment at Speedway. Yup- a gas station. We shared slurpees, nachos and recorded videos/took pictures of each other. I could hang out at speedway every day with them- even with the dirty looks we get as we sing Hannah Montana. 

I’ll try not to get too sappy, cheesy or dramatic. But… I’ve been thinking about this summer as I finish up my time here. I am so glad I’ve been here for the past few months. I love the people I’ve met and grown close to. My job was the best job- I would do this kind of thing for the rest of my life in a heartbeat. But as I was telling my friend the other day, I’m kind of disappointed in myself. I was given such an opportunity to love on and reach out to a wonderful group of people. I feel as though I have not done nearly as much as I could have. Actually, I know I haven’t done as much as I could have. Trust me, I’m not saying this to sound humble or good or godly or whatever. I am honestly and vulnerably saying: I was lazy and self-centered. i seriously fell short of what Christ called me to this summer. I have struggled with this the past couple of weeks as we’ve actually started to do more reaching out and loving. I am kicking myself for how much I missed out. I just wanted to share what the Lord has gently been reminding me as I’ve tossed around these ideas in my head.

1. Whatever the Lord wills, will happen. He doesn’t need us to get things done. He is much bigger, wiser, and mightier than for us to get in the way. Goodness, I have learned to rest and hope in this truth. Our God is much greater. Praise God!

2. He didn’t call us to be fearful and lazy. I am reminded of a verse in 1 Corinthians where Paul talks about how he is running the race in such a way to win the prize. He explains it as beating his body and making it his slave. Although this comparison seems so strange, it speaks to my heart and reminds me I have to train myself. I have to fight my sinful nature. I have to make my body my slave. Following Christ is a choice I have to make daily- even moment by moment. It isn’t easy but it’s good. He’s good. 

3. Grace is our invitation to be something more. There’s this song by Sara Groves and I can’t remember the name of it, but one of the lines is “this is grace- our invitation to be beautiful”.  I can’t ever forget this line. It’s engraved in my heart. Each time I realize how I fall so short, this phrase pops into my head. Grace in an invitation to be beautiful, and being the girl I am, I want to be absolutely beautiful for my King.

I know, they’re such simple elementary truths but sometimes I still need to be reminded. I hope this is somewhat encouraging to y’all.

I can’t wait to see you guys soon.

Love you,

Julie

 

p.s. I have no idea if my brother and his wife have had their baby. Please continue to pray for this situation.