Beauty in the Ruins.

I love God.
I know that sounds like a simple statement. And I guess it is, but it is oh so true!

I love that in the middle of my mess, in the center of my chaos, and when my life feels incredibly lifeless, there is still beauty.
As you read this, I will be in Indonesia. I will be over there with 4 others running 3 youth seminars in different villages in Indonesia and visiting one of my most favorite places on the planet, Hope Village.

I love how God can still use me in the middle of my mess. I love how He picks me up out of my own circumstances and uses me to teach His truths to youth, halfway across the world!

I have never taken this kind of thing for granted. I treasure every opportunity I get to speak into the lives of others, especially young women. But I am ever more thankful in this season.

I love how God does not disqualify me. He doesn’t sit me out or sideline me because I am broken, and despite my personal circumstances, allows me these amazing opportunities.

Now I could have very easily have turned this down.
“Oh I can’t go, I am too broken.”
“I am in a really bad place.”
“I have nothing to give.”

But instead, God has helped me look past what I am working through, and shown me that I can still make a difference in people’s lives. He has shown me that I can still be used and that I still have so much to offer!

If we all waited till we were completely healed or perfect to do Gods work, then let’s be honest, none of us would be doing a thing! Not one us. We are all broken and in a state of becoming whole, and that’s the way God likes it! If we were whole, then we would not have to rely on Him and His strength, but instead, we would try and do it in our own strength, and I for one knows how that turns out!

I am super excited at the opportunity to speak to the youth in Indonesia. To share some personal stories, and to share with them the hope of God. It doesn’t matter what country we are in or our social circumstances, we all need to know the hope that comes when we place our trust in God. And despite how I am feeling at the moment, this is something I can still do!

And for that I am so thankful!