Fundraising has definitely not been “fun” raising. However, it has given me an opportunity to grow in my faith and trust in the Lord. Trusting Christ and His plan for me in this season is essential. When I started this process and surrendered my next year to missions, it took a lot of trust. God has shown me from the beginning that He is providing for me. Just like the Israelites (a people group who God provided for over and over in scripture, by saving them from slavery and starvation, yet they still had times of doubt) I’m human and even though God has been providing, sometimes my flesh takes over and doubt consumes me.
God gives us encouragement in His word (the Bible). 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18 “Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ.” Paul (the author of the passage) was writing to the Thessalonian church to clear up some misunderstanding that they had. In the verses above He was encouraging them to remember what they had been taught and where their help comes from. Reading this passage I was reminded that God is in control. Even through the darkness of my uncertainty, He is the light. It also helped me to realize that every situation is a chance to grow and learn and no matter what, give thanks to God.
This experience so far has been somewhat of a rollercoaster. I know that God will provide and His will will be done. In the midst of this season though, I must admit, some days it is difficult to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Some days I just want to throw in the towel, because it would be easier than trusting in the unseen. Just because something is easier doesn’t mean it’s worth it. I knew when I started this it wasn’t going to be all sunshine and rainbows. So far I have seen major growth in myself and other members of my squad. So many hurdles have been thrown at us, we may be tripping and stumbling, but we are continuing forward with Christ.
My current hurdle is my financial deadline coming up. I’m supposed to have raised $8,500 by September 11th. My current balance is $5,767. I have about 3 weeks to raise $3,000 give or take. I have yet to be able to raise $1,000 in a week, so this is definitely going to be a faith journey. I have faith that God will provide and He will put the people in my path who are willing and able to partner with me. By saying this I am holding myself accountable and asking anyone who reads this to hold me accountable to have faith in God’s plan. I’m not just sitting around twiddling my thumbs by any means, but it still seems that every door I try to open gets shut in my face and I’m running out of options. I just keep telling myself God is in control. To be completely honest some of the struggles that God has helped me to overcome thus far in this journey have been the most amazing moments in my faith. I can’t wait to look back on this time and be able to say “look how much God has grown me”.
-Elizabeth
I am watching your faith grow and seeing you work so hard to contribute to your dream. Not only are you fundraising you are also working odd jobs and any money you make goes toward your trip. I am putting my faith with yours that you will get the funds you need. I want you to be completely done by October so we all have to put our fundraising and help for you into high gear and do what He leads us to do. May you continue to share your blessings and God’s hand on your life.