2011 has definitely been challenging so far, but Lord refine me through this steady flame.
Academically, I'm overloading and taking five classes (including 3 with labs), and on the accelerated graduation track. Not sure about study-abroad but maybe I'll get something for this summer where I can travel. Otherwise, I figure if I really want to travel, I'll definitely do it in the future. Moreover, swim team certainly is teaching me a lot about commitment, dedication, and attitude. About three more weeks left...hopefully things will be a little less hectic after swim season. I'm still struggling to discipline myself and manage my time better.
Spiritually, I feel like it's always been a challenge when I'm at BMC. Still working to build that spiritual community that I had hoped for in college. In terms of my faith, I've been telling people how it's been an uphill climb, but in the right direction nonetheless. But recently I was reminded by a sister how unless we're moving forward, we'll be pushed back. And now after reflecting it feels like for every one step I take forward, I'm pushed back three steps. I also realized that I have idols in my life I need to get rid of. Like I quoted in a previous post, sin is anything that takes away from God as the central significance, purpose, and happiness in my life. Learning to truly offer up everything to Him, and not let even my service to Him become an idol, but to trust and love Him whole-heartedly. (Yeah...Oswald Chambers' "Utmost" has been pretty helpful for my devotionals.)
Community-wise.... I'm wondering if I may be an extrovert now, a shy one, but an extrovert nonetheless? Or maybe I'm an introvert who likes to be social, but isn't outgoing...? Anyways, my point is that I realized I really enjoy company, possibly more than I enjoy my alone time now. I used to think that I was an introvert for sure, but now I'm not so sure. Instead of seeking alone time, when I have time to myself I seek to catch up with others. And community being one of the heaviest concerns on my mind, I've been really praying about this and working to invest in people. And I think I'm beginning to see how God wants to use me. Going to use my single time wisely and work on building His kingdom. (1 Cor. 7:34-35)
Prayer Requests:
- Guidance and trust in God concerning academic choices and summer plans
- To rid my life of idols and to rely on Him completely
- For community
- To use this time of singleness wisely
- For my family
Currently Reading:
- "My Utmost for His Highest" by Oswald Chambers
Currently Listening To:
- Back to December, Taylor Swift
- Told You So, Jesse McCartney
- Someday, Rob Thomas
- Smile, Uncle Kracker
- How Deep the Father's Love for Us, Phillips, Craig, and Dean
- Before the Throne of God Above, Selah
