Back to the city...

Hey guys!

Well we just got back from our retreat up in the mountains. And let me tell ya, it was soooooo BEAUTIFUL!!!! Everything was so green and there was a very big, very clear river right under our camp site. It was really just a huge eye opener on how beautiful God's creation is and how beautiful our God is. His creation is incredible!!!

The retreat really was a privilege for all of us because we all became unified through fellowship and worship and getting to know each other. I'm super glad we got to go but I'm super excited to get started in our routine. Since we've gotten here everything has been totally insane. I'm ready to get into the flow of our routine and see what God has planned for the summer.

We really learned alot at the retreat. God has really showed up and showed off everywhere we've gone. Last night we all got to have a camp fire with smores all together as a team. And we just got to all sit there and share everything going on in our lives and what God is teaching us. It was awesome to hear everyone be transparent and honest. I shared about what I have been struggling with. The devil has been especially vicious while we've been on the mission field. But here's my biggest struggle: The devil knows how much I love my family and he knows how much I think about them. And ever since we've been here he's used that to his advantage and attacked me with being homesick and worrying about my family and Africa. You know, we've been saying all year about how I'm spending the summer in Tokyo and the rest of the family is going to Africa, but it's just hitting me that they're all really going. It's all a bit overwhelming. I've really been worrying about their safety, and took me this long to realize but I finally realized that worry is not from God. It's from the enemy. And worrying is a huge distraction. I've learned to just fully trust in God completely and know without a doubt that his plan is over all. His plan is right. His plan is number 1. I know God is going to keep my family okay and I know he has huge plans for them in Africa. So please pray for them as they prepare to go the next two weeks. Pray that I won't worry about them and pray that they will not worry or be anxious about anything. Pray that they will be unified as a team, so that the can stand strong against the Devil's schemes.

Check out Ephesians 6! And remember every single day to put on the full armor of God.
*The belt of Truth- Turn to God's word and servants to find the truth on every matter.

*The breastplate of righteousness to guard your heart- focus on God; strive to live like him.

*Put on the shoes of the Gospel of Peace- Daily read God's word and understand the Gospel so you are prepared if you fall. Memorize some scripture!

*The shield of Faith- Trust God in all you do. Believe that he protects you and will guide you. He has everything under control so be courageous. Then satan cannot pierce you with doubt and worry.

*The helmet of salvation-Turn back to God. Remember that he has forgiven you. Remember who you are and who's you are.

*The sword of the Spirit(God's word)- Use scriptures, God's word, to actively attack sin and fight against satan's strongholds. Take up your sword, be a soldier, and fight!

I'm reading ''I would die for you" again and BJ is just being a great role model for me. If you haven't read this book, check it out. It's very inspiring. BJ wrote this and it's very encouraging:
I will not be satisfied.
I will not let my passion be held in a bottle.
I will not let my light be hidden.
I will stand up.
I will let my voice be heard.
I will lead, I will serve, I will fight.
I will tell people about Christ.
I will unsheathe my sword.
It's time to raise a revolution.
God will give my strength.

That just is a great reminder every single day of why I am alive. I am alive to shout about God's name from the rooftops. And I am here to be used by God in order to bring him the glory that he so craves. Our God is soveriegn and I WILL fight for him.

Thanks guys for your support. Missing you!