For the first time in a really long time, maybe even ever, I can say with certainty that I am peacefully and joyfully content (and happy really) with who and where I am in life right now. It is not because of anything I have done, but truly due to Christ's grace, mercy, love and provision that I am where I am right now.
Today begins week 4 at New Hope Academy, week 3 teaching. I walked into school today feeling like I am actually teaching now, not just filling in or jumping from one lesson to the next. I have a plan; I have a purpose and a goal. I am loving my job.
I've suddenly found myself working and functioning comfortably in this new chapter of my life: adulthood. I think for a while I was pretending I fit in, but now I finally feel settled in this new phase. I am owning it, rather than looking up at it and trying to reach it.
I attended my first Women's Bible Study this evening. We are working through a book and video series called Brave by Angela Thomas (I think, it's not right in front of me so I'm not positive). The first week is about how we as women are worn out. For once in my life, I do not feel worn out, ironically. Talk to me tomorrow and that may be very well different, but tonight, as I said, I am comfortable, relaxed and content. But I understand where she is coming from and the issues that arise, because I have had my fair share of worn out days -- even at the ripe age of 22. She talked about ways to overcome or trade in our exhaustion and weariness for life and renewed strength. Without realizing it, God had been teaching me these very principles all summer long. I felt a familiar reminding tonight as I listened and took notes eagerly on what she had to say. Isaiah 40:31 says that those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. When we put our hope truly in the Lord, he makes the exchange from weariness to new strength. When we enter into his presence, he welcomes us with a fresh energy and new life. There was more to it than that, but even just those two simple thoughts are often lost in our busy busy lives.
Sometimes it takes us getting to the breaking point to realize we need God's renewing strength and mercy, but other times, thankfully, he simply reminds us gently.
I am grateful for the Lord's renewing strength. I experienced it just recently as I recovered from a sinus/ear infection and headed back to school after a relaxing, yet productive weekend. Despite the end of summer and the waiting chapter coming to a close, I find God still teaching me similar lessons, only now he is expanding them and showing me how they fit into the new context. I rejoice that he is my strength and my hope and that I don't have to do anything on my own. Through him, I can do all that he has called me to do. I can rest, be renewed and go on serving him in this new chapter of life that he has brought me into.
Be encouraged, friends. God is right there ready to renew your spirit and give strength to your heart and soul.
Blessings.
