I've experienced alot of emotions this week.
Excitement has been one of the main ones. I am excited everyday that God has blessed me with this opportunity. One thing in particular was very exciting this week. I got my official letter from Papua New Guinea stating that they want me to come. Along with that letter was a handbook telling me about the training that I will take part in during the first 3 months I will be there. It gives me an idea of what to expect and different list of things that I will need to do before I come and list of things I will need to bring. So naturally my mind jumps five steps ahead of where it should be and I mentally start planning so many things.
However with excitement, also doubt has come alot this week.
As I think about Bible translation, I wonder if I can do this, since I know nothing about linguistics or what it takes to translate the Bible into a native language. Also as I begin my Partnership Development I start getting overwhelmed with all the things that I need to do and how much money it takes to just start(especially since I only work part-time). And I have a confession to make, I don't read my Bible ever day. I know, you would think that some one going into missions especially Bible translations should read their Bible every day. As some one who has struggled with setting up a regular quiet time each day, there are many times that I don't feel equipped to tell others why the Bible is important and why they should read their Bible every day.
I was comforted by words from Isaiah today.
Do not fear, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name; you are mine.
When you pass through the waters,
I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers,
they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire,
you will not be burned;
the flames will not set you ablaze.
For I am the LORD your God,
the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.
Isaiah 43:1-3
This is what the LORD says—
he who made you, who formed you in the womb,
and who will help you.
Isaiah 44:2
I pray that I will hold on to these word as the weeks go one and that they will help me push aside any doubt.
Please keep me in your prayers as I start to look for another part-time job. That I will be able to find something that will work with my current jobs schedule.
Just getting caught up over here today! I hope you are getting some of the logistics squared away.
ReplyDeleteI have never really been a DAILY Bible reader. For spurts of time, yes, and always involved in Bible studies to stay accountable, but I tend to sort of chew and digest for awhile in between "meals". It doesn't make you less of an equipped servant, I don't think. I do think accountability is crucial though.