On the job training

I'm often focused on the lessons to be learned that I overlook the lessons I am learning right now.  Recently I have been fighting some very real doubts and fears.  As I travel by myself around the country, Satan has loved to try to make me believe that I am alone.  I have been learning to surrender these moments to the Lord and to focus on his love and faithfulness.  I have quite an active imagination.  When people ask me why I'm going alone and why I seem to be so brave, they have no idea of the challenge they are addressing.  It's easy for me to say the Lord is with me, and I am doing my best to be obedient.  Though this is true, I struggle.  Many nights I ask the Lord to help me conquer this fear and to surround me with his angels.  He does.  I'm reminded of Paul who said,

"An now, compelled by the Spirit, I am going to Jerusalem, not knowing what will happen to me there.  I only know that in every city the Holy Spirit warms me that prison and hardships are facing me.  However I consider my life worth nothing to me, if only I may finish the race and complete the task the Lord Jesus has given me--the task of testifying to the gospel of God's grace." Acts 20:22-24

Yes, hardships are facing me wherever I go--Oregon, Montana, or Nigeria.  I know this.  Remember, this is true for all who are battling for the Lord.  We have an enemy who's actively searching for ways to destroy us.  Don't forget that!  He is constantly trying to deceive us, but we have a God who is infinitely more powerful and infinitely more loving.  Good thing we (hopefully you) are on the right side, huh?

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I'm still on the road.  I left Kalispell, MT this week.  I had a wonderful time there.  It was hard to say goodbye to friends for 3 years!  The top picture is of my friend Jen who lives there.  She's quite a kindred spirit I'd say.  The bottom pics are of me on the road and living out of my car.  It's actually pretty fun most of the time.