LESS fretting and MORE trusting

A couple months ago I wrote a post about my upcoming trip to Guatemala and how it was such a big step of faith not knowing how we were going to pay for the trip. As I've experienced in the past when I feel a nudge to move in a particular direction the best thing to do is just start taking the steps. And of course pray about it too. In a short time God makes it real clear if it's where He's leading me or if it was my own plan. 

I announced in my first post that all profits of my leather business from December through March would go toward my trip and anything exceeding that amount would go toward the new program to feed the hungry kids in Guatemala. 

I am excited to say that my trip is fully funded! Leather orders came rushing in before Christmas and generous donations in response to my support letters. Not only is my trip paid for, but we were also able to give toward the nutrition program at the school, as well as help buy supplies for the two schools to take with us on our trip.  

This would not have been possible without the help and support you have all given to me! 

With any step of faith I've ever taken the same thing is always true, God just wants my obedience of a "yes" answer. Then he can step in and work out all the details. 

Just like in October of 2008 when Mike and I started taking those first steps toward adoption it was extremely overwhelming. We were staring giant mountains of paperwork, money and time in the face. All this after years of emotional exhaustion from infertility. I remember doubting and asking God how this would all be possible. We had no idea if the journey we were embarking on would turn out exactly as we had hoped, but one thing we could do was say "yes" and start taking steps in that direction. Many of you know our story, but for those of you that don't, we were only on the waiting list for four months when we were chosen by a birth mom. From the day we started filling out paperwork to the day we were holding a tiny baby in our arms was almost exactly one year. With domestic infant adoption, that is phenomenal! (You can read more about our story here.) 

While this recent endeavor with my trip to Guatemala is much different than adoption, it reminds me of my past experiences. I wouldn't consider myself a person with strong faith. Unfortunately I get anxious and doubt and fret and stress a lot more than I'd like to admit. And then when I least expect it God comes through in a miraculous way and I am humbled once again that HE, the God of the universe cares about me so much that he would chose me to be his hands and feet in Guatemala. Or in reference to adoption, that he would choose us to get the privilege of raising Rogan. 

I know there will forever be opportunities to step out in faith. And if they quit presenting themselves to me then I better be worried because I'm probably not living my life. :) My goal though, is do less of the fretting and more of the trusting! 

And with all that being said, a big Thank you for all your prayers and support for this trip. I look forward to keeping you all updated as the trip gets closer and share all that God does in my life while in Guatemala for 10 days!