This past semester has been a whirl wind. In 2 short, beautiful weeks I will be done with my college career! I remember counting down to my arrival at A&M, and man oh man, I was BLINDSIDED by all that I would find down that sweet Highway 6.
I have been reflecting on the fact that I have always had the intention of coming to A&M, getting into PPA, then going to work for a big 4 accounting firm. Now that I am in the throws of finishing this up, I still can attest to the fact that plans for my life are not my own; God has given me a new direction, and a set of circumstances I never expected. My personal examples of God changing my plans are easy to show & tell: Tyler & Austin. I was the first person to say that I wouldn't have a serious relationship in college, and that as soon as it was over I'd be out of the country for an unknown amount of time. Oops. I fell in love with an amazing man of God that reminds me to give up worries & trust God, nearly everyday. A man that makes me pee my pants in laughter, who reaches to the Lord when he sings, a man that holds his ground in ruthless banter with family friends looking to make him embarrassed...and now I'm moving to Austin, TEXAS? Ha, this is going to be good.
The Lord knows what I need, and where I can best serve Him. At 18, I didn't know what God wanted. It is still (obviously) a daily challenge to ask & learn what God wants of me in the moment.
Tonight I was blessed with encouragement, prayer & affirmation by my friends that I study the Bible with each Monday. I got a glimpse of reflection of this semester, realizing that this group of people are exactly what I have needed. A consistent source of God's word, honesty, transparency, a group of people to minister to about their needs & prayers...I could go on, but I won't because I need to write about their prayers for me, and I also need to sleep.
Michael opened by saying that the verse he chose seemed cliche, but after looking at some of my Facebook profile pictures, the verse was just 'Tara Bradley':
"You are the light of the world, A city on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on the stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven." Matthew 5:14-16
*I LOVE this verse.
Michael also read the Priestly blessing:
"The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you; the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace." Numbers 6: 24-26
Michael spoke about my confidence to be me in all situations, even if that could be embarrassing to others, ha.
Courtney appreciated the way that I am helpful, and look for ways to give to others.
Zach read the verse that his grandmother gave to him for his life verse:
"Be strong & courageous, because you will lead these people to inherit the land I swore to their forefathers...Be strong & courageous. Do not be terrified, do not be discouraged, for the LORD your God will be with you wherever you go." Joshua 1: 6 and 9
Zach spoke about the fact that Austin might not be too scary, but if I ever am fearful about my purpose & mission in this life, to rely on the fact that God has planned all that is set out. That has been my comfort and prayer, so many times.
One of my favorites:
"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do." Ephesians 2:10
I have struggled these past few months to determine what God's will is about where I will live starting in January, and really about what God wants from me in the subject of ministry...but as I remember my prayers for 2011, I have seen God more than fulfill them. I am faithful that He will bring my steps to me as I need to know what to do & where to go.
The Spirit is alive & well, keeping me close to the Lord, speaking truth & life...that in itself is an answer to prayer.
[Casting Crowns-Spirit Wind]
