The Philippines was an amazing experience, I had never been in a place where people were in such desperate need. They literally lost every material possession they owned except for the clothes on their backs. It was amazing to see the amount of work that was done in the four months between the typhoon and when I was able to go. There were still people and families that were living with others because they still didn't have a house. Sometimes there would be 3-4 families living in the same house. Please continue to pray for those who live and have been affected by the Typhoon Yolanda and that the name of Jesus would continue to spread throughout the islands of the Philippines.
Upon returning to the states I continued to pray about what I what I should be doing this fall in regards to studying and equipping myself for what God has planned for my life.
I prayed, researched different places, prayed, talked to friends, prayed, read through my journal entries to see what God has spoken to me in the past and if any of it was specifically relevant for my immediate situation.
I just returned from a trip up to the Oregon Coast with some friends and was able to spend time reflecting on what God has spoken to me and listened to where He is leading me at this time.
I just got all my brothers and Dad to come and have a small devotion once a week so that we can build our strength as a band of brothers in Christ. It was easy, l was reminded of why I haven't started the groups I've really desired to start groups for Jr. And Sr. High Students where we can read through a book and discuss it in a small group setting.
Now during my times on the beach I really thought about the fact that God has given each of us specific gifts to tell the world about Christ. I was thinking, what are mine? My two main spiritual gifts are Exhortation & Teaching and I am passionate about Jr. & Sr. High students because they are at the exact age where they need the truth the most. As they search for a substance to fill the void they feel inside them and all they hear is the world telling them what they need to feel accepted, loved and needed. I want to encourage Fathers to be a Father by actively pursuing relationships with their sons and talking about those tough subjects. Then my personality affects this as well, I greatly enjoy leading, conversing and listening and if we go by the personality test I am extroverted, sensible, feeling and judging. I would love to lead groups or even get them started and then allow someone else to step in.
So where am I going this fall? At this time my plan is to study online and develop the skills and gifts God has blessed me with.
