The last couple of weeks my stress level started creeping up. How are we going to fundraise this amount? How are we going to see all the family we want to before we leave? How are we going to finish all these house projects to get it ready to sell? How do we decide what to sell, give away, store, and pack to take with us? The to-do list can be overwhelming, and time is not slowing down.
And with that, this Tuesday I went to a Bible study where the teacher (a fellow youth minister friend of mine) spoke on John 15: Abiding in Christ. It's something I've taught and even preached on, and yet God used it afresh to remind me: "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser." He is in control, provides, and nurtures; there's no need for me to worry. "Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing." Pretty straightforward: if I'm trying to do all of these things in my own wisdom and strength, it's going to be pretty discouraging.
In his commentary on John, Dale Bruner expounds upon "abiding in Christ" in chapter 15 as "making our home in Christ." Resting in him. Feeling comfortable and restored by him. As we are in the process of uprooting one home and starting to establish another, I am reminded that my part is simply to make my home in him, and he will provide.
Yes, he WILL provide! And he will raise your funds, too. We definitely take advantage of opportunities to share our story with people when those opportunities present, but God has been so faithful to raise our funds for us over these years! I pray you will see his hand working mightily on your behalf!! So excited for you guys! sharon
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