Courage

The word "courage" has been on my mind this week.  While studying or reading I've come across a couple of verses I have chosen to hold onto for my life.

The first verse was in Acts when Paul went before the Sanhedrin. In Acts 23:11, "The following night the Lord stood near Paul and said, "Take courage!" As you have testified about me in Jerusalem, so you must also testify in Rome." - The Lord always has a plan! For Paul this word was an assurance that God still had work for him to do. He was in jail for the time but he would go to Rome. He didn't want him to be discouraged but remain courageous.

I was reminded of the second verse while reading a Beth Moore book on Believing God.  Three times in Joshua 1 the Lord tells Joshua to be "Strong and Courageous."  He wanted him to be assured that He (the Lord) was going to be with him wherever he was going.  I love this part in v9, "Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."  God's promise for Joshua is also His promise to us!  God's not going to fail us!  He won't fail you and he won't fail me!  He is with us no matter what we are going through or how bad circumstances may seem. 

As I prepare my heart for helping at Shevet Achim, I'm reminded of how much courage it takes for a parent to bring their children to Israel for treatment.  They are desperate to save their child.  They have two choices; Stay home with a critical child and live each day wondering if it will be their last or they can muster up the courage to do something.  The courage to give their son or daughter a chance at living.  I believe God is working in the courage and calling them to have faith.

On this earth we will make decisions that "Take courage."  Remaining faithful to Him and trusting Him with every ounce of our being is His call to us.

Please pray for me and Mary.  That even now God would prepare our hearts for His work.  We leave in 5 weeks and 2 days!!

Thank you and Blessings!

Thrilled beyond words...

When God plans something...he does it right! He does it His way and in His time.

I'm thrilled beyond words to say...I'm going to Jerusalem in October.  My ticket is purchased and I have all the funds I need to go.  If you prayed for me or donated I want to say "Thank You" with all my heart.  God answered my prayers through you. 

Please continue to pray for Israel and the community I will be helping.  The workers are truly few and the work is so great.  The house is full as I keep up with them via the blog and website.  Hearts are being repaired and parents are being encourage through God's people.