Well, it's been a crazy few days....the enemy is definitely on a mission to discourage me, but he's not gonna win! I am more determined then ever that God has called me to this adventure in Brazil! First, my car a/c goes out and the cost to repair it is close to $400.00. Definitely not good timing since I'm on a tight budget and the trip is only a week away. Then, I wake up yesterday morning with the stomach bug. UGH! Tried not to let it get me down. I have learned to recognize the antics of the one who is out to steal, kill and destroy. After many prayers and wishes for a speedy recovery, I was back to work and off to bible study tonight!

I'm leading a small group of women as we study the book of Ruth....what a wonderful story of God's redeeming love. Of course, it's also one of the most romantic love stories in the Bible which makes it so appealing to me since I am such a sucker for that romance stuff! We had 2 new ladies join our group tonight and WOW!! They brought such joy and encouragement to our group. They have such wisdom. They reminded me of just how good our God is and how I need to stay strong in the Word and not receive the negative things the devil tries to throw our way. I love it when God sends me little kisses on my cheek to reveal just how important I am to Him. He gently reminds me to focus on His amazing love for me....even in the times when it looks as if the whole world is crumbling down around me!

It is a fact that this world brings trouble but I am reminded to "count it all joy in my sufferings for the name of Christ". If I am being targeted by the enemy, it can only mean one thing; I must be making a difference. He wants to quiet my witness. Well, I hope he realizes that no matter what comes against me, I will never stop sharing what Christ has done for me and how He can bring joy and freedom through His death on the cross for my sins to anyone who believes on His name.

I will shout it from the mountain tops.....MY GOD IS STRONGER, MY GOD IS GREATER, THERE IS NONE LIKE HIM! Greater is He that is in ME than he that is in the world!

I am a child of the LIVING GOD....an heir to the throne! I've been invited to the table of the feast for the righteous! Praise His name.....

I am telling you, we had CHURCH tonight!

Only 7 days until I leave for Brazil....but I'm getting so excited and anxious to see how God is going to move. He has prepared a way for us. He's gone before us.....now it's just a matter of our obedience to the call.....Here I am, Lord...send ME!!!

More to come as the days get closer!

God bless!