Thank you God for your goodness!
This year has been a year of the unexpected. It hasn't been an easy year by any means. However, I've seen Gods love, mercy and redemption work miraculously in what seemed like impossible situations. Jesus wasn't lying when he said, "The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I have come that they may have life, and have it to the full." (John 10:10) I thank God that He gave us the Holy Spirit because He has given me so much strength this year! He's also reminded me that just as much as God whats to restore me to right relationship with Him, and He has :), that He longs to do the same with those who maybe caused the greatest wounds in your life. You see, God has opened my eyes to a revelation of His love that has ruined me forever. How can I hate what God created in His own image and desires to pour His love lavishly upon them? He is too good to be true, yet He is true!
At the beginning of the year I came home from Harvest School with Iris Ministries. I came home with new, God breathed dreams and no intentions of staying in the States for more than a year. Well, it's been a year and I'm still here haha :) It's okay though! I still have hope in the promises and dreams God has placed in my heart....I just might have been off on the timing. Much like Abraham, and God's promise of a son. He waited for 20+ years for his promise, "Against all Hope, Abraham in hope believed...." (Romans 4:18) God's been working in my heart to take Him at His word, EVEN when I can't see the next step in front of me. Thank goodness He is my firm foundation, right ;)
At the beginning of April I moved to Kent, Washington to live with an amazing family. I like to think of them as my second parents & family. The Stanton/Cook family means more to me then my words could ever express. Their love is like Jesus' love, selfless. They've taught me what generosity looks like and are some of the most compassionate people I've ever known. I love you guys and miss you very much! And I miss your truck Bryan and your amazing jokes ;) And Shelly, I miss drinking all your coffee creamer haha ;)
In September, I moved to Redding, California and I'm attending Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry. Don't get hung up on the name...it's not like Harry Potter or anything :) Although I think it would be cool to fly. If Peter could walk on water, I mean why can't I fly ;) Anyways, this has been one of the most stretching experiences I've ever experienced. I really didn't have the money to come and honestly I didn't feel like I needed another "ministry training school." I battled with thoughts, and occasionally still, about what people think of my journey. Sometimes I think people think I'm chasing my own tail...heck, sometimes I think that. I'm on the potters wheel, and I want to be on the potters wheel. I hear His voice and I trust that He will make His voice heard when it's time to move forward. In the mean time, I'm surrounded by an amazing culture of people pursuing the love of God and bringing His presence and power to earth. I feel so honored to be here!
I've been overwhelmed by Gods goodness and that goodness that flows in His children. I can't wait for the day that I get to pour into people to measure (and beyond) that people have poured into me. All my needs have been exceeded while I've been here in Redding. Because of your generosity, I've been able to help meet needs of other BSSM students and some of the homeless here in Redding! Just last Thursday I was give a 2003 Toyota Camery by amazing friends in Portland. Yesterday I was almost in tears because I could actually go to the grocery store when needed. Thank you Chelsey, Debbie and Cynthia (some of my roommates) for being so willing to help drive me and others around when needed. I'm excited that I now get to help provide rides :) I love being a daughter of God!
I've been so bless by the people here at Destiny House (The place I live)! I couldn't ask for better people to run with while I'm here. You guys have become family and I'm so thankful for you :) Shout out to all my amazing roomies! I love you and I love our DANCE PARTIES <3
Thank you Mom, Phil, Dad, Ben, Grandma Carol, Grandma & Grandpa Phelps, Auntie Val & Uncle Jeff, Bryan & Shelly Stanton, Geoff Brown, Sara & Peter Lowry, Sarah & Matt Ryan, Emily Svitak, Sam & Krystal King, Bassett Family, Bob & Ada Laughlin, Mike and Judy Hammer, Bob & Betty-Jane Wright, all my friends at Mt. Hood Christian Center and those I don't know who have lovingly supported me. Thank you for believing that I am good soil! May God pour out everything I have received upon your families.
Here's to 2013! For the best is yet to come :)
"May the God of Hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." - Romans 15:13
