During my Sunday morning missions presentations, I share how God led me to change my major from music education to international & community development studies... after having planned on being a music teacher since age ten. It was a two-year-long process of inner struggle, coming to terms with the fact that I couldn't see myself at all teaching music in American schools, while fearing what it would mean to give up the picture of my future which I'd held onto for so long.
I just got off the phone with the pastor of a church I spoke at two days ago. She spoke with a man after the service who told her, "I just found out that I'm getting ready to lose my job. I couldn't believe it. I have no idea what I'm gonna do. But you know what? I'm excited because even though it's the only thing I know how to do, I know He has something else for me to do."
The pastor said, "Wow, you must have really echoed with Jessica's testimony this morning."
"Yes! Now I see that just because I have to let go of what I know, I can have joy! God will guide my next steps."
After the pastor shared this story with me, she told me, "Jessica, this man only comes to the church every few weeks, but he happened to be here this Sunday. You haven't even gotten to Albania yet, and God is using you to touch lives where you are."
How amazing it is that the Holy Spirit specifically ministers to individual hearts! His is the glory. I couldn't possibly have known that someone in the congregation just lost his job, but God did. He knew that man needed to be there on this particular Sunday to hear a word of encouragement. God has so many rich blessings to pour out upon us when we trust in Him, even when things feel dark, confusing, and don't make sense. The kingdom of God is ... a matter of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. (Romans 14:17) Jesus left us with a gift - peace of mind and heart, a gift the world can't offer.
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