Early early early this morning I met with 2 high school girls who ironically teach me way more than I attempt to teach them. We talked about God's constant presence and our need to recognize him. To talk to him throughout our day. To never hang up the phone, so to speak.
And we tied these bracelets around our wrists to remind ourselves of these things. (look, sis! pink-ish polish!)
Then this morning I was feeling attacked and judged and hurt. Possibly the biggest heartache I've experienced in ministry as of yet.
And I cried a lot. And talked to God. And read some comforting words.
And then a wise friend reminded me...
I am not a 23-year-old kid running this youth ministry. I am a 23-year-old woman running this ministry. I am educated. I am experienced. And beyond all of that, I have been appointed by God. And for that reason alone I don't have to justify my position. (Wherever you're at & whatever you do, please know that you don't have to, either.)
Now, this afternoon, I am feeling strong and courageous. I am looking at my wrist and remembering the day has been filled with his Spirit, even when I have felt alone. It's going to be okay. Plus, there's a pup keeping my feet warm and I have a good book in my hand and tea water in the kettle. Indeed, it will be okay.
Until tomorrow...
Peace.
Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be upon your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.
Deuteronomy 6:4-9
When you hurt, my heart aches. Rock-a-Bye, Sweetie Pie, Beautiful Kaylyn, Momma Loves You...
ReplyDeleteOh, I could come up with some words of wisdom and encouragement, but sometimes, nothing works as well as being wrapped in your Momma's arms. So feel yourself there, Sweet Girl. I've got you.
Sorry you had a rough day, friend. I'm looking forward to seeing you on Thursday... even if its going to be a 12 hour day :) I've missed you!
ReplyDeleteI'm sorry you were attacked! It's so often that those who try to serve the Lord in big ways and try to change lives are attacked...Satan hates it, and he'll try to discourage you and slow down your process and to try to delay Christ's return by dragging us down. Way to win this victory!
ReplyDeletethats an amazing thing Kay, I love little memory bracelets...my sisters & I bought some $3 tree bracelets & we wore them, and would look at them & say a prayer for each other when we would.It was neat. I like your reasoning too :)
ReplyDeleteyour tough day sounds TOUGH, but a good book & puppy snuggling makes it so much better...glad you got your 'end of day' perspective by bringing it back to God's presence.
I'm so proud of you.
ReplyDeleteis that hebrew ring of yours used as your wedding band?
ReplyDeleteAnonymous,
ReplyDeleteYes, it is! Mine says, "I am my beloved's and he is mine" and Danny's says, "I am my beloved's and she is mine". I love it :)
That's so cute!
ReplyDeleteDo you mind if I ask where you get those? I want to get one for my husband. I didn't know those even existed until I saw them on your blog. That's so adorable!
Yes, you can get them at JamesAvery.com. They have a lot to choose from! I would order 1/2 a size bigger than your normal size. Danny gave me mine the morning of our wedding and it was too small :(
ReplyDeleteOh Kaylyn, my friend! I am catching up on my computer stuff and reading your blog. I am so sorry about your heartache but so excited to hear how you felt God's presence. May I encourage you, too? I feel you are perfectly where God wants you to be. Nobody better I can think of to do what you are doing. Like Steph says, don't let satan discourage you. Hang in there. You are doing a mighty work and cannot come down! Nehemiah 6:3. love you! xoxo
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