Challenges

Prayers answered, faith challenged and built!  If my faith were never challenged, would it ever grow? Probably not.   Well this week has been a time of growth in all of our faith. God is so good, He has allowed difficulties, and we have responded by getting down on our knees in prayer. And just like we are teaching the kids this week, God has been with us - through changes, when we need help and when we are afraid. We certainly have had our share of changes  this week. The weather has been really hot, and our bodies have had a hard time adjusting. We have been at the end of ourselves, each one of us, at least one day this week. The work with the kids is amazingly satisfying, but extremely taxing on our bodies. We just aren't used to the climate and food and challenges of walking up these hills each day. But each time we were empty, we prayed that God would fill us up. And you know what?He did! At lunch time, we felt as if we couldn't go on, and we prayed for strength. Sometimes He provided an unexpected helping hand, or a ride, or extra cold water. At the end of the day, we were amazed at the strength we had,which surely had come from His hand. This week, we lost some money. It seemed like it was definitely gone, and now we would be short on our bills. So we got on our knees and prayed. And guess what? God answered the prayers and the money was found, intact, in the most unexpected place! Today I was told of two experiences that were unusual and unpleasant. My initial reaction was sadness followed by fear. I went to the Lord. In His word He promises protection for His people. I'm standing on this truth and praying it in great measure, believing that He will indeed avenge the innocent and bring refuge for those who love Him. So my faith is growing through these challenges, because I see God's hand through all of it. He is a mighty God that we serve! The last day of Klub is tomorrow. We had a super day today with over 170 kids again, and it is flowing smoothly. Thank you God! To Him be the glory! Peace, Kristi