Question 1

What Scripture passages have meant the most to me during my time in Macedonia?

1 Timothy 1:15-17 (New International Version)
15Here is a trustworthy saying that deserves full acceptance: Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners—of whom I am the worst. 16But for that very reason I was shown mercy so that in me, the worst of sinners, Christ Jesus might display his unlimited patience as an example for those who would believe on him and receive eternal life. 17Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory for ever and ever. Amen.

I’m so thankful that God displays his “unlimited patience” in me! He shows me a lot of patience every single day! I have not been worthy to be his ambassador in a foreign land but he graciously allowed it, for which I am thankful to Him.

Philippians 4:4-9 (New International Version)
4Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! 5Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. 6Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. 7And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. 8Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things. 9Whatever you have learned or received or heard from me, or seen in me—put it into practice. And the God of peace will be with you.

I think Phil. 4:6 is my life verse! In my sinfulness, I am often anxious about things, but God has used my time in Macedonia to remind me over and over again to trust Him. I had to choose to trust Him when we had transportation issues, electricity problems, language and cultural barriers, and more. He is SO trustworthy and I know that I am sinning every time that I doubt Him. I thank Him so much for being my stronghold!

Also this passage has meant a great deal to me because it helps me to put my thoughts into check. Every time I question whether or not I am thinking rightly, I can go through this check list and ask myself, “Is it true, noble, right, pure, lovely, admirable, excellent, and praiseworthy?”. If it is not, then I simply don’t need to focus my thoughts, time, and energy on them.

Jonah 2:8-9 (New International Version)
8 "Those who cling to worthless idols
forfeit the grace that could be theirs.
9 But I, with a song of thanksgiving,
will sacrifice to you.
What I have vowed I will make good.
Salvation comes from the LORD."

The Lord spoke to me this morning through these verses. There are a lot of things that I want once we return to the states. God reminded me through this scripture that there is nothing wrong with having these desires as long as they do not become idols in my life. I must be able to live contently without them. Contentment…contentment…contentment…what a valuable trait and what a God-honoring trait we should all strive for in life! Am I willing to be like Paul in Philippians 4:11-13?

Philippians 4:11-13 (New International Version)
11I am not saying this because I am in need, for I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. 12I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. 13I can do everything through him who gives me strength.