When I was in high school, I went on a mission trip to Mexico. It was my freshman year. It was a whole new experience— a new culture, different time zone, and it required a lot of courage. We led an outreach at a park and I met a young girl there named Abby. I was able to pray with her and lead her to the Lord. It was so neat to go outside of my comfort zone and see her heart change. The next year I was able to go back to Mexico again. The craziest thing happened. We were just at a restaurant for lunch, and lo and behold, there was Abby. She was there with her whole family. I was able to connect with her and learned that her whole family now went to church and were growing in their faith.
In Isaiah 55:8-9, it describes how God’s ways are not our ways and His thoughts are not our thoughts. This verse reminds me of the mysteries and vastness of God. When I am stuck in my finite mind and plans, I am able to turn to Him and go beyond my circumstances. I may not always understand or fathom His will, but I can trust that He will lead me in it. As I walk in humility and seek his face I can have faith that he will guide me in the right direction.
As I grow in my faith, I learn that there are more gray areas to God than I previously thought. There is not always one right way or thought. At times there are multiple directions I could walk in but they all lead to a similar destination and He will keep me in his will as I pray about which path to take. Sometimes it is just a word that he uses to speak to me in His still small voice. I need to take time to sit in His presence to hear his voice. Like lately, I have just heard the word “Stay.” Stay in this job, stay in this city. Stay where I have planted you and grow.
God works in mysterious ways to encourage us and embolden us. At times when I get discouraged or question my faith, I look back at that time in Mexico when God showed his majesty and power through reconnecting me with Abby and her family. I am reminded that nothing is too hard for God and nothing is small.
About the Author
Mollie is married to her wonderful husband Dustin. She is a Wound Care RN at McKenzie Willamette Hospital. She enjoys being creative, getting outdoors and spending time with friends and family.