Spiritual Reflection

          I have grown a lot this year. I started off the year by jumping into a leadership internship called 252. It is based off of the verse Luke 2:52 ("And Jesus grew in wisdom and stature, and in favor with God and man"). I grew a lot that semester. I learned all the qualities of a leader, but more importantly I learned what it meant to be surrounded by good people. People who always breathe life, encourage, and support. A group of friends that are there for each other.  Through this internship I was encouraged to step out and learn how to serve in many areas in the church. I also began to be able to pray out loud.
          Then the summer I grew even more by leading my class of campers into daily Bible studies/ stories. I also was able to step out and lead worship for the entire camp for a week all by myself. It wasn't the best but I did it by relying on God! I also helped play guitar most every other day at chapel and at youth. All of those were big steps for me because before the summer I wouldn't play guitar in front of people. Last summer was not always spiritual highs though. I got into a relationship that I should not have. I thought everything would be okay because I was dating a pastor who was also my best friend. However, it went south. Lack of self control led to a lot of sin and conviction. I knew I needed out of that relationship but it was hard to end it because everyone else thought he was perfect for me. I knew what needed to happen, so I broke up with him.
          In the fall I jumped into a small group, and there I met my best friend. She challenged me a lot whether she realized it or not. I learned how to trust God more and how to be spirit lead in conversations and with my life.
          Finally, in December I went on my first mission trip. Over spring break I realized that God was calling me to higher things, because I sat and cried every day over wanting to go to Haiti. I didn't think I was going to be able to go, because I didn't know how I would be able to come up with the money. God provided though. In about 2 weeks after sending out only 7 support letters I had almost all the money needed for my trip. The rest came in shortly after. (God provides everything you need for what He is calling you to do). The trip itself was even more amazing. I wouldn't even know where to start to explain everything that happened. God really showed me how He is always there for me. He showed me how blessed I am, and He showed me the power of prayer.
          I cannot wait too see everything God has in store for me next year.