Plans to Give You HOPE and a Future

Last week I felt my hope dissolving. I was afraid that I wasn't going to get the funding I needed to make this trip real. Suddenly, I realized how stupid my thoughts were. Who am I to put God in a box? Who am I to decide whether or not I will have enough money to go on my mission? That is not in my hands. God called me to this season of life and I am going to push through with all the strength that he gives me. He will make his will known!

Last night at church, Pastor Chad talked about the promises that God makes to us. He holds himself true to each and every promise in the Bible. Not only did he keep his promises then, but he keeps them now. I have proof of that.

While I was feeling my hope getting thin, I nervously typed out an email to YWAM Boston explaining my situation. I had been anticipating their reply for a few days. I woke up this morning to an empty inbox. I felt a little disappointed but I returned to Facebook and posted a status that read,

"Once upon a time, there was a girl who loved Jesus very, very much. She decided to serve him in any way possible, so he told her to go on a mission trip. He said, "trust me." Today she continues to trust him, but she is still in need of prayer and supplication for her trip next month. He can move mountains! :)"

Literally, not 5 minutes after I posted that status I received an email from the DTS explaining how excited they are to have me on their team and that they have received my $500 room deposit- $500 room deposit?? Now, I had no idea they needed a room deposit. I have no idea how they received $500. I have no idea who sent that $500. But I do know one thing, God held true to his promise and he is supplying everything that is needed along the way. Praise the Lord!

I opened my Bible right before I started this blog and turned right to a passage I feel is fitting for this blog.

"'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you. You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.'" Jeremiah 29:11-13

UPDATE: So far, I have nearly $1,600 thanks to the help of the loved ones who have been obedient to the calling of the Lord. And thanks to the many prayers that are lifted up each day by all of you who believe this is possible. Words cannot express my gratitude to each and every one of you. My love will go on forever.

Blessings,

Lauren