On Thursday, Erik and I sat down over coffee and had what seemed like a business meeting to talk about what we were feeling about our future (having kids, moving back to America, staying here, etc.) We had both been praying individually and together about what God wanted and thought it was a good idea to sit down and talk intentionally about what God was showing us. As we talked and as I listened to Erik's wise thoughts and feelings about our marriage and someday family, I was a little overwhelmed and emotional thinking about all the decisions we were making and talking about. Getting married was the biggest and easiest decision I have ever made thus far, and then getting a job in South Dakota for a year and moving here to Jakarta seemed like more natural, not stressful or overwhelming decisions. But talking about when to have a baby and whether or not we will be renewing our contract in December to stay here for another year hit me in a different way. I thought - "Man! We really are growing up!". I usually have no problem making decisions because I know what I want and if people ask for my opinion, I will usually gladly give it to them. But, when your married things work a little differently :) So, after about 2 hours of chatting, we left the conversation feeling like God was showing us the same things. Right now, God is not showing us a big yes or a big no, but I really can't explain the peace that I felt walking back home after we talked it all out even if we didn't have it all "planned" out. God is working in amazing ways and I can feel it. Some of you may think this blog is a little vague and you may be wondering what our plans for the future are. I can honestly tell you that as of right now, we really do not know. We believe God is leading us a certain way, but there is still a long time until "final" decisions need to be made. Please be praying for Erik and I as we continue to seek God's will. Specifically pray that God would continue to make his will clear to us and that we would seek His wisdom when making these big boy and girl decisions. Please pray that our emotions and feelings (mine especially) don't wrongly get in the way of what God wants for us. Like I mentioned, if we decide to stay for another year after this year, we have to sign the contract in December. Seems far qway, but at the same time very close. Please pray that these decisions would not overtake our thoughts so much that we don't live in the moment now. We are both SO enjoying our second year of teaching here and I hope and pray that thinking about next year won't take away from that in anyway... If you have a desire to know more details or have specific questions about things you can be praying for, please feel free to message me or Erik on Facebook :)
This song by Chris Tomlin has been one that has really encouraged me over the last few weeks. It is a great reminder about how Faithful our God is, no matter what situation you find yourself in. {the last verse is my favorite} ..
This song by Chris Tomlin has been one that has really encouraged me over the last few weeks. It is a great reminder about how Faithful our God is, no matter what situation you find yourself in. {the last verse is my favorite} ..
Faithful, forever You are faithful
Father to the fatherless
You uphold the one who feels forsaken
You are faithful, God
Faithful, forever You are faithful
Lover of the wounded heart
You defend the poor and the forgotten
You are faithful, God
And I will sing to the maker of Heaven and Earth
God, You reign forever and Your love will endure
Faithful and true is the name of the Lord
You are faithful, God
Faithful, forever You are faithful
Shelter for the fragile soul
You lift us up, You hold us all together
You are faithful, God
You are there in every season of my soul
You are there, You're the anchor that will hold
You are there, in the valley of the shadows
You are faithful, God
Thanks again, as always, for all the thoughts, prayers, and encouragement. We love you all.
Bye for now :)