unexpected beauty

Four weeks ago, I said good-bye to my friends and the life I knew in Dayton. Three-and-a-half weeks ago, I arrived in Athens. Two days later, I moved into my dorm. After another 5 days, I started classes. Since then, life has continued. I really had no idea what to expect when I moved here. At times, I'm still not sure what to expect. Unlike an old version of me, I really am okay with that. But, over the last month, my life and experiences have been singing certain truths over and over again. Each time, the truth sinks a little deeper. So, despite many things being unsure, I am certain that:

 

1) Nothing compares to what happens when I obey God unquestioningly. 

2) Unquestioning obedience takes a lot of faith.

3) God builds faith in me in ways I don't expect.

4) God provides for my every need.

5) Sometimes, God provides before I even realize I have a need.

6) Sometimes, God readjusts my definition of "need."

7) Many times, God provides in a timeline that requires more faith on my part.

8) Prayer is more important, more powerful, and more productive than I can ever comprehend. 

9) The more I choose to pursue God above all else, the more I want to pursue Him. 

10) The work of the Holy Spirit goes far beyond the realm of my current experience.

11) The more my faith grows, the more I want to be aware of the spiritual realm.

12) The more aware I am of the power, ability, and availability of the Holy Spirit, the more room I make for Him to work in me and through me. 

13) I still have a lot to learn, experience, and do. 

14) God's love does not change.

15) The only concrete aspect of my life is God Himself. 

16) Coincidence is not a real thing.

17) God really is sovereign.

18) I don't fully grasp the reality of God's sovereignty. 

19) I was made to worship God - not partially, but 100% of my purpose is to worship and bring glory to my King, Savior, and Lord. 

20) Asking Jesus to "take me where my trust is without borders" is so worth it!

I can hear something a million times, but until God speaks it to my heart, it has little meaning. God has truly spoken each one of these things to my heart in a new, unique way this month and I am beyond excited to continue serving a God who is so passionate and intimate. He makes my life beautiful.