The Moment I Looked Up

You remember that girl in middle school who could barely look up to say hello without stumbling over her words or her face turning cherry red....the girl who you could just tell lacked confidence and struggled with insecurities just by the sight of her...the girl who allowed fear to debilitate her and hold her captive?

This girl I am describing was me.

While many could never imagine or comprehend this "version" of Erin-Rae, it is merely a testament of God's transforming power in my life.

This is perhaps the most vulnerable I have been on my blog, but I felt prompted to share this with you today. I am learning that there is a distinct difference between transparency and vulnerability. You see, transparency is merely sharing things that one is thinking about or reflecting on, but vulnerability is allowing others to see deep into our hearts where struggles and imperfections reside. There is power in weakness, because this is where God proves himself strong in our lives. I want people to see my humanity. I want people to see that this light...this strength...this power is not a result of motivational tapes or self-improvement books. This is a direct result of my God inhabiting my heart and soul. Because without Him, I am just a girl named Erin-Rae. But with Him, I am complete...a daughter of the most High King.

Here's my story:

I came from an incredibly loving and godly home. I was surrounded by friends and family who loved me beyond measure. I had every reason to be a confident young woman and yet I found myself in the opposite position. Never once did I harm myself physically. It was all internal--an emotional battle that I let very few people know about. I was afraid--afraid of failing, afraid of speaking, afraid of people and what they thought of me, afraid of everything. I was entangled in a thread of lies that told me I could never be a leader...never be strong. I never lost my ability to show kindness to others, but because so many assumed I was a shy person, I automatically believed that that was just who I was. The more lies I believed, the more my mouth closed up as if the enemy was sewing it shut.

These struggles continued until my freshman year of high school when a dear friend passed away. The grief seemed impossible to bear, but through the long and painful healing process, God revealed something to me about time: We may never know how long we have with people, but this should give us all the more reason to live our lives in service to others. From that point on, I never treated people the same.

As I traveled to El Salvador, Nicaragua, and other locations within the U.S for outreach and missions throughout high school, I quickly began to realize that God was reshaping the way I perceived myself, but in a way I would have least expected. Yes, His Word was breath in my lungs and His presence remained through all those nights I would quietly cry myself to sleep. But it was actually the moments of serving others that I began seeing myself differently. In other words, it was the moment I started looking up, that God helped me find my identity.

For so many years, my vantage point was limited due to the position of my head. All I saw was myself and my own insecurities. I may have learned every stitch, every curve, every design on my tennis shoes, but I failed to see the desperation around me. Disappointed that I had missed so many opportunities, I decided that some things needed to change. I began to learn the enemy's schemes. I knew that he would never be able to tempt me in the typical ways, but he would certainly do everything in his power to destroy me mentally and emotionally. He didn't want me to discover who I really was or all that God had for me. He didn't want my smile to be seen. He didn't want me to speak because he knew that this voice was meant to uplift and encourage and direct people to Christ.

I was no longer okay with the enemy bullying me around, so I began to fight back! The more truth and promises I believed, the more I spoke up, the more people I encouraged, the more love I expressed....the more I understood who God had designed me to be. To this day, I still struggle with confidence, but I am quicker to quiet and defeat the voices that I know are not true. God has not equipped us with armor intended for the shed, but rather for the battlefield. Do I believe in spiritual warfare? Absolutely. But do I believe we have victory over these powerful forces? Without a shadow of a doubt. 

^"Finally, be strong in the Lord and in his mighty power. Put on the full armor of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes. For our struggle is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms."-- Ephesians 6:10-12

If I have learned anything from this process, it is that discovering our true identity and God's purpose for our lives is a lifelong process. God wants to continue to redefine who we are and expand our capacity through different experiences--stripping us of the identity we have made for ourselves so that he can show us who he really created us to be. He wants to enhance and remodel our hearts in preparation for the journey ahead. I am grateful for the things I went through. Not because they were easy, but because they were like growing pains--essential for development and spiritual maturity.

Now, instead of looking down at my sneakers, my head is up. Not because I am the most confident person in the world nor am I the prettiest or most intelligent, but because I know my worth is found not in man, but in my Father in Heaven. I ended up graduating college with a Communications degree (confronting my fear of speaking and learning that I have a voice) and am now pursuing a Masters in Business Administration (confronting my fear of leadership and learning that God may have more in store for me than I realize).

So I leave you with this...

Keep your head up, because people need to see that smile and hear that voice. It was meant to change the world one life at a time.

"Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up."--Galatians 6:9

When He Speaks : Five keys to remaining sensitive and responsive to God's voice

Have you ever found yourself in your own little world? Either you're thinking about today's agenda, contemplating what you'll be eating for lunch, deeply engrossed in a book, texting, or staring avidly at your iPhone screen as you check your Facebook or Twitter news feed. Or, if you're like me, you're looking at the ground as you walk just to make sure you don't trip on the obstacle course in front of you.

If any or all scenarios such as these resonate with you, has this "in my own little world" dilemma ever resulted in your oblivion to someone calling your name or saying hello?  At times it registers soon enough for you to acknowledge them back, but other times you are about 15 seconds too late and the opportunity has come and gone.  I know I have had my fair share of those unfortunate circumstances. Light bulb turns on, head whips back, smile forms, hand raises for a brief wave.....and aww bummer! The person's gone. #awkwardmoment #sadday

As I reflect on situations like these, I am reminded of the subject of God's voice. The older we get the more we realize that there's a distinct difference between hearing and listening. You see, we hear a lot of things on a daily basis, but we have a choice as to what we listen to. Through the hustle and bustle of life we often tune out the unwanted or mundane sounds. However, it is my prayer and challenge that we will never become ignorant of the voice of God. This voice is no ordinary voice that only speaks when necessary. This voice speaks every second, every minute, every hour of the day providing counsel, discernment, and endless comfort. It is merely a matter of us tuning in. 

My dad once said,"Hearing God's voice is less of an art and more a desire of the heart." The older I get the more I hunger and long for God's direction. I find myself praying this over and over again: "Less of me and more of you, oh God." Phrases like these are easy to recite, but when it comes to  implementation it's no easy task.

Here are 5 keys to remaining sensitive and responsive to God's voice: 


1. Desire and Faith - In order for us to hear God's voice we must have a passionate desire to attentively listen to His words and the faith that He will speak.  If we lack these key elements, we become closed off and almost numb to the voice of God. We were given free will--we were not designed in a robot factory nor were we created with puppet strings attached. God is not a god of force. Therefore, the choice is ours. Do we continue to live our lives as we please and remain ignorant to His instruction or do we continually seek God out for guidance and direction?  Do you desire to hear from God? Do you believe that as you seek you will find?  

"Ask and it will be given to you; seek and you will find; knock and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives; the one who seeks finds; and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened." - Matthew 7:7-8

2. Vision - Attempt to see things through God's eyes. Ask Him to provide clarity--to clear your vision and increase your understanding of why things are happening the way they are. Sometimes our plans don't align with reality, but in moments like these, God is trying to reveal something to us. The key is will we rely upon our own understanding or preconceived ideas to navigate our way through situations? We tend to see what's right in front of us, but God sees the big picture and every microscopic detail in between. He sees the entire scope....the grand spectrum...the beginning and the end. Trust Him and watch him bring clarity to the complexities of your everyday life.

"I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people.." - Ephesians 1:18

"Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

3. Surrender - What does "surrender" mean? Over the last few months, I believe God has tweaked my definition. You see, surrender means laying absolutely EVERYTHING down at His feet.  Not just the bad and the ugly, but the good things in life as well (material possessions, academic endeavors, professional opportunities, romantic relationships, future plans etc.) The moment we loosen our grip, it gives God room to speak--we are actively giving Him the reigns and allowing Him to change our plans if need be. If He asks us to give up good things, it is not to cause misery or sadness, but rather the opposite. If God has your best interest in mind, then he may need to make alterations in order to develop and strengthen you, and ultimately lead you into your destiny. Billy Graham once said, "God never takes away something from your life without replacing it with something better.” So surrender, loosen your grip, and walk in obedience, even if it involves temporary pain. As you do this, He will perfect your path, guide, and speak in ways you could have never imagined.  

"Father, if you are willing, take this cup from me; yet not my will, but yours be done." - Luke 22:42

4. Solitude - God longs to take the complexities of life and create peace and simplicity within our hearts and minds. But where can we obtain this peace that passes all understanding? God is constantly communicating, but sometimes we must remove ourselves from the busyness of life to hear him more clearly and allow him to penetrate our hearts. His presence is life--breath to our lungs. So step away from the to do list for a short while and find solitude. As you give him time, he will show up in new ways and provide comfort and discernment where it is needed. 

"Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed."- Mark 1:35

5. Word - Continue to stay in the Word of God. This entire book consists of His practical and applicable instruction. No matter how much or how little you read, know that every bit that goes into your heart provides counsel and comfort for both present and future situations. It may have been written thousands of years ago, but it is ALIVE! His promises are timeless. His words remain just as true today as they were back then. If you can't sense or hear His voice, just read His words.  

"How can a young person stay on the path of purity? By living according to your word. I seek you with all my heart; do not let me stray from your commands. I have hidden your word in my heart that I might not sin against you." - Psalm 119:9-11

"In Your Presence": A Poem

"In Your Presence"

By

Erin-Rae Donaldson

I sense you here

I sense you there

I sense you everywhere

Where can I go, oh God, without your presence?

It is the breath in my lungs, the rock on which I stand, my very essence

My troubles threaten to weaken my spirit and direct me astray

But your Holy Spirit calms the storm in me without delay

Where can I go, oh God, without your presence surrounding me?

Tears stream down my face as you fill my heart with glee

The Bread of Life permeates through my veins

Fears, anxieties, feelings of inadequacy race through my mind like a fleet of trains

But still, you faithfully remain.

Lord, even in my weakest moments you sustain.

I cannot comprehend your goodness, nor can I conceive the plans you have for me

To walk in your perfect architectural design is more than enough for me

Your will is my desire

Oh how I long to see your dreams transpire

Lord, your presence refreshes my soul

In you, I have every reason to extol

Lord, you are here

Lord, you are there

Lord, you are everywhere

The Bike Ride

It seems like its been ages since I have last written and I can tell my fingers are ready to type another blog post. To all of you who are reading this, I pray you have been doing well over these past several months. There have been so many things I have been reflecting on to the point my heart could burst. Unfortunately, I haven't had a sufficient amount of time to write, but today is the day! I can just feel it. It's time to drop everything and start typing. Here are a few things I have been pondering lately....

After graduation in May, I was unsure as to whether or not I would be able to attend grad school to get my MBA this Fall, but God continued to open doors and his intervention paved the way. I now find myself at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, OK, attending courses throughout the day and evening and serving as a grad assistant to the College of Business Dean. Although this season has brought its challenges, I stand in awe of God's blessings and favor as I depend on Him. I have found that every experience, every friendship, every conversation, and every person he has brought into my life has purpose and is far from coincidental. I am constantly learning from others and am only encouraged to become all that I can be. (To all of you who have played a role in my life...I just want to thank you. Thank you for inspiring me and for investing in my present and future. The impact you have made cannot be measured). I believe that God orchestrates each day in such a way that enables us to learn from one another and grow in ways we could never imagine. You see, a life expecting God to work and trusting in his architectural design--surrendering to his will daily even when it doesn't end up looking like your own--is a life full of joy and peace. Sometimes we don't understand pain nor do we comprehend the difficult circumstances or disappointments we face, but God does not waste any experience. In fact, He uses these experiences to strengthen us and to deepen our walk with Him--to reveal things to us that perhaps we would overlook otherwise. He says that he collects every tear drop. "You keep track of all my sorrows. You have collected all my tears in your bottle. You have recorded each one in your book" (Psalm 56:9 NLV). No matter where you find yourself today, whether you are experiencing great blessings or an impossible hardship, know that your God is a God with your best interest in mind. You are his precious son/daughter with a calling on your life. Keep your eyes focused upon Him and he will never fail you. Look around you! Breathe in the air...every time the sun shines upon you, every time the wind gently flows through your hair, every time a rain drop streams down your face, every time you hear the birds sing a melody...think of Him. His presence is real. Rest in it. Let go of the need to control every last detail and see where he takes you.

I was running errands the other day and stopped in the copy center to take care of a few things for the College of Business open house event. Of all places, an unexpected conversation took place with the gentleman assisting me. After our 5 minute talk, he went to his desk only to return with a piece of paper with the "The Bike Ride" poem, also known as "A Tandem Ride With God" typed out neatly. As I walked back to the office, I read each word and found myself in tears a few sentences in. I hope it encourages you just as much as it encouraged me. It's time to give God control. Keep pedaling no matter what! You may not know the destination, but trust that God will not direct you anywhere that he cannot sustain you. Love you all.

A Tandem Ride With God

(Author unknown)

At first I saw God as my observer, my judge, keeping track of the things I did wrong, so as to know whether I merited Heaven or Hell when I die. He was out there sort of like the President. I recognized His picture when I saw it, but I didn't really know Him.

But later on when I recognized my Higher Power, it seemed as though life was rather like a bike ride; but it was a tandem bike, and I noticed that God was in the back helping me pedal. I don't know just when it was that He suggested we change places, but life has not been the same since . . . life with my Higher Power, that is. God makes life exciting. When I had control, I knew the way. It was rather boring, but predictable. It was the shortest distance between two points. 

But when He took the lead, He knew delightful long cuts, up mountains, and through rocky places and at breakneck speeds. It was all I could do to hang on! Even though it looked like madness, He said, "Pedal!" I worried and was anxious and asked, "Where are You taking me?" He laughed and didn't answer, and I started to trust. I forgot my boring life and entered into the adventure; and when I'd say, "I'm scared, " He'd lean back and touch my hand. 

He took me to people with gifts that I needed, gifts of healing, acceptance, and joy. They gave me their gifts to take on my journey; our journey, God's and mine. And we were off again. He said, "Give the gifts away. They're extra baggage, too much weight." So I did, to the people we met, and I found that in giving I received, and still our burden was light.

I did not trust Him at first, in control of my life. I thought he'd wreck it. But He knew bike secrets, knew how to make it bend to take sharp corners, jump to clear high places filled with rocks, fly to shorten scary passages. And I'm learning to shut up and pedal in the strangest places, and I'm beginning to enjoy the view and the cool breeze on my face with my delightful constant companion, my Higher Power.

And when I'm sure I can't do any more, He just smiles and says, "PEDAL!" 



(Photo: I took this picture in St. Andrews, Scotland--a beautiful and unforgettable place. I have always wanted a vintage bike similar to this one. Perhaps someday I will stumble across a red one with a wicker basket in the front)

Happily Single: 10 Keys to Contentment During a Season of Singleness

In a society where everything seems to revolve around finding the love of your life and updating your relationship status on Facebook, it can be challenging to feel content in a season of singleness. But, let me reassure you that it is possible. How do I know? Because I am living proof that even if you've never been in a relationship, insurmountable hope, joy and fulfillment can be yours.

Throughout my college years, I have learned that contentment is all about a shift in your perspective--a daily decision to trust God in all circumstances and to see Him at work in every chapter of your life. Here are 10 keys to contentment during a season of singleness:

1.     Cultivate a heart of gratitude - Your praise and thanksgiving is a powerful weapon. Instead of focusing on what you lack, remember and acknowledge all that you have. By doing so, you can fight those feelings of discouragement and give God the opportunity to remind you of His favor and many blessings. In 1 Thessalonians 5:18 (The New International Version), it says that we should "give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.” Singleness is not God’s way of depriving you of any good thing, but rather it is Him preserving you for someone who will exceed your expectations and bless you beyond measure.

2.     Invest in your family/friend relationships - Cherish every moment, conversation and experience with the people you love. Although family and friends will always be a part of your life, relationship dynamics change when that "special someone" enters the scene. As a single, you have the ability to dedicate your time and primary focus to nurturing these family and friend relationships. By looking beyond our own personal gratification, our vision is cleared and our awareness of others’ needs increases. Perhaps I have needed to be single for the sake of relating and connecting with other single girls in desperate need of a word of encouragement. As you continue to invest in these relationships, believe that God has placed you in their lives for such a distinct reason. As you enjoy and embrace those around you, feelings of loneliness and sadness can subside.

3.     Pursue your God-given dreams - Regardless of your relationship status, go after your goals, dreams and God-given aspirations. Do not wait! One of the biggest mistakes singles often make is waiting tirelessly and missing out on the wonderful things this season has to offer. As you venture on this journey, God will simply insert that special someone into your life. It won’t be a matter of you ending all of your current pursuits and ambitions for the sake of finding someone. Rather, as you dedicate your time and energy to fulfilling God’s call on your life, He will bless you with a teammate along the way—someone who will support your endeavors and challenge you to become all that you can be.

4.     Maintain high standards –The other day, I was driving down a heavily congested road that would lead me to the highway. Those commuting to work were infuriated when the red flashing lights appeared and the gates to the railroad crossing descended. Still a mile away from the tracks, I scanned my surroundings and noticed cars swiftly turning to the left and right hoping to find a nearby detour. Their impatience led them on a path that didn’t ensure immediate arrival and a stress-free, uncomplicated commute. In the same way, don’t settle for second best or get caught up in the wrong relationships out of desperation, but rather hold out for that supernatural relationship that aligns with your standards. No compromises are necessary. Believe that you deserve the best.

5.     Pray regularly – Remember that prayer does not only bring you peace, but it reminds you of who is in control. We often take this responsibility upon ourselves as though we have the capability to orchestrate every tiny detail of our lives. However, the truth of the matter is God has asked us to surrender our plans to him—trusting that He knows best. In His word, He promises that our prayers are powerful and effective. In moments of weakness, impatience and loneliness, lift up your future spouse in prayer and believe that as you pray fervently, God hears you.

6.     Stay in the Word - Instead of spending your time worrying, dive into Scripture and allow God’s Word to replenish your soul. I like to think of God and His words as the ultimate power source. When we plug into this power source, we receive His joy, strength, and wisdom. Unfortunately, we look to other sources that we feel could quench our momentary hunger and thirst. These outlets may provide temporary satisfaction, but they cannot provide long-term fulfillment. Plug into the Power Source—He is your constant supply.

7.     Journal –Throughout my teenage and college years, I began journaling about my experiences and matters of the heart. I would write out my prayers instead of simply speaking them out loud. The more I wrote, the more my prayers transitioned from formal letters to deep conversations with God. I quickly came to the realization that God not only wanted to hear the songs of praise come out of my lips, but he also wanted to hear about the painful and unsettling circumstances I was facing. When you feel alone, journal to the One who fully understands the situation before you utter a single word.

8.     Have faith – In a season of singleness, it is easy to doubt God, especially when we can’t see the big picture. But as you practice patience, be encouraged and know that as you wait and seek God, he is working behind the scenes and orchestrating your love story. He is shaping you and maturing you into the man or woman He has called you to be. If God knit you together in your mother’s womb, then He must understand you better than anyone else. Do you trust Him with your future? Do you believe He knows not only what is best for you, but the timing in which it will all pan out?

9.     Encourage and serve others – During this season, God has given you tasks and responsibilities to serve and provide lasting hope to those in need. Whether serving on the mission field, on your school and church campus or in your local community, you have a unique purpose and contribution to society. Every act of kindness, loving embrace, or word of encouragement makes a difference in the global community. Changing the world begins with you.

10.  Enjoy life –When you drown in your sorrows and convince yourself that there’s a huge gap in your life, the enemy is winning. Don’t let him! You are clothed with the armor of God and can therefore claim victory over the enemy’s schemes. It’s time to experience life to the fullest.

I leave you with this: Take heart! Have faith and believe that God's plan for your life is beyond anything you could ever dream up on your own. Let Him turn your worries and anxieties into great excitement and anticipation for what lays ahead. Give God the pen and let Him write your love story. It is going to be amazing. 

Change is Like the Wind

   Change is never easy.

It requires strength, courage, and the painful task of letting go. But one thing I have learned is that change is like the wind...it moves us in a new direction even if we long to stay in one place. At first we fight the wind, but as we let it take us to new and exciting places, we begin to understand that it was all a part of God's plan. You see, change is what moves us from one chapter to the next. It allows us to discover the rest of the novel God has written to perfection...it pushes us to see the world like never before...to encounter people in desperate need of hope...to live out our destiny. This change I am describing is soon approaching for me and perhaps for you as well, but find comfort in knowing your God will never leave you nor forsake you. He will equip you for every task and transition that lays ahead.  

"You Make Me Brave" 

by Bethel Music
 

I stand before You now
The greatness of Your renown
I have heard of the majesty and wonder of You
King of Heaven in humility, I bow

As Your love
In wave after wave
Crashes over me, crashes over me
For You are for us
You are not against us
Champion of Heaven
You've made a way
For all to enter in

I have heard You call my name
I have heard the song of love that You sing
So, I will let You draw me beyond the shore
Into Your grace, Your grace 

As Your love
In wave after wave
Crashes over me, crashes over me
For You are for us
You are not against us
Champion of Heaven
You've made a way
For all to enter in

 

You make me brave
You make me brave
You called me beyond the shore
Into the waves

You make me brave
You make me brave
No fear can hinder now
The love that made a way

You make me brave
You make me brave
You called me beyond the shore
Into the waves

You make me brave
You make me brave
No fear can hinder now
The promises You've made

As Your love
In wave after wave
Crashes over me, crashes over me
For You are for us
You are not against us
Champion of Heaven
You've made a way
For all to enter in

Growing up Convoy of Hope

 

http://www.convoyofhope.org/from-the-founders/growing-convoy-hope/

When I was 2 years old, my dad, Hal Donaldson, and his brothers founded Convoy of Hope. Since then, Convoy has grown significantly and yet its foundation and core values have remained unchanged. For as long as I can remember, my parents instilled in my sisters and me the importance of demonstrating kindness, practicing generosity and serving those in need. Learning this at an early age has shaped us into the young women we are today. It has given us an understanding that Convoy of Hope is not what we are, but rather who we are as a family—the very core and mission of our daily lives.

Whether volunteering in the warehouse, distributing groceries at a community outreach, or traveling internationally, taking part in the work of Convoy of Hope has shown me what it means to put compassion into action. Every person I’ve encountered, every warm embrace I’ve shared and every tear shed while serving has helped to transform my life.

Even though poverty and malnutrition continue to threaten our global community, we cannot allow these harsh realities to paralyze us and deter us from action. Rather, we must offer lasting hope to those in desperate need of love and care.

As Convoy of Hope celebrates its 20^th year anniversary, I am reminded that the organization has grown beyond its humble beginnings. Today it is a part of a global movement that is helping millions of people each year.

On behalf of my family—and all those who work so diligently—I want to thank you for partnering with us and believing in the mission of Convoy of Hope. Together, we can change the world one life at a time.

Happily Single: Five Keys to Contentment During a Season of Singleness

Any singles out there? Not to worry, you are certainly not alone. According to the United States Census Bureau, over 44 percent of all U.S residents 18 and older are classified as single.

In a society where everything seems to revolve around finding the love of your life and updating your relationship status, it can be challenging to feel content in a season of singleness. But, let me reassure you that it is possible. How do I know? Because I am living proof that even if you've never been in a relationship, insurmountable hope, joy, and fulfillment can be yours. It's all about a shift in your perspective. Here are five keys to contentment during a season of singleness:

1.     Cultivate a heart of gratitude - Your praise and thanksgiving is a powerful weapon. Instead of focusing on what you lack, remember and acknowledge all that you have. By doing so, you can fight those feelings of discouragement and give God the opportunity to remind you of His favor and many blessings. 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, "Give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”

2.     Invest in your family/friend relationships - Cherish every moment, conversation, and experience with the people you love. Although they will always be a part of your life, relationship dynamics change when that "special someone" enters your life. As a single, you have the ability to dedicate your time and primary focus to nurturing these family/friend relationships. I often reflect upon why I haven't been in a relationship, or dated, for that matter. But the more I ponder this, the more I realize that the moment I look beyond myself and my own personal gratification, my eyes are opened to the many needs around me. Perhaps God needs me to be single right now for the sake of being there for other individuals that can relate to my relationship status. Whatever the case may be, remember those around you and believe that God has placed you in their lives for such a distinct reason. As you enjoy and embrace those around you, feelings of loneliness and sadness can subside.

3.     Maintain goals and high standards – One of the biggest mistakes singles often make is waiting tirelessly and missing out on the wonderful things this season has to offer. Regardless of your relationships status, go after your goals, dreams, and God-given aspirations. Do not wait! As you venture on this journey, God will simply insert that special someone into your life. Don’t get caught up in the wrong relationships or settle for second best out of desperation, but rather hold out for that supernatural relationship that aligns with your standards. No compromises are necessary. Believe that you deserve best.

4.     Pray regularly and stay in the Word - Regardless of your emotional state, remember that prayer can not only bring you peace, but it can also remind you of who is in control. We often take this responsibility upon ourselves as though we have the capability to orchestrate every tiny detail of our lives, especially when it comes meeting the one. However, the truth of the matter is, God has asked us to surrender our plans to him—trusting that He knows best. Instead of spending your time worrying, dive into Scripture, allow God’s Word to replenish your soul, and pray fervently for your future spouse.

5.     Have faith – In a season of singleness, it is easy to doubt God, especially when we can’t see the big picture. As you practice patience, be encouraged and know that as you wait and seek God, he is working behind the scenes and orchestrating your love story. He is shaping you and maturing you into the man or woman He has called you to be. If God knit you together in your mother’s womb, then He must know and understand you better than anyone else. Do you trust him with your future? Do you believe he knows not only what is best for you, but the timing in which it will all pan out? 

The Girl with the Orange Hair Tie

With hands trembling and heart racing, I slowly opened the van door. My fellow Convoy of Hope interns and I had reached our final destination—a small school nestled in the mountains of El Salvador. As I took the first step out of the vehicle, the debilitating effects of fear and anxiety threatened to end my journey, until I saw her—the girl with the orange hair tie.

 I was 16-years-old at the time. I had never traveled internationally before and thoughts of inadequacy and unpreparedness haunted me. As children surrounded me in every direction, anxiously awaiting a hug and kiss on the cheek, I managed to peer off into the distance and scan the school grounds. While doing so, I met eyes with a young girl who sat under a nearby tree, stroking her long brown hair that had been gently pulled back by a bright orange hair tie.

The girl with the orange hair tie was unlike the other girls. She was shy, timid, and distanced herself from the rest of her classmates. I approached her slowly and said hello. Her big brown eyes looked up at me and creases of a smile began to form on her once sorrowful face. I began asking her basic questions in Spanish, which she quietly and sweetly responded. As the interns began setting up for skits, human videos, and other festivities planned, I felt an indescribable pressing on my heart to remain by her side. The program was underway and the laughter and reactions of the children was like music to my ears. Tears welled up in my eyes as I felt the girl’s arms wrap around my waist. Her grip was tight as though she never wanted to let go. I held her in my arms for the remainder of the hour, occasionally looking down only to find her peeking up at me in adoration. She whispered in my ear, “Te amo mucho,” I love you very much, and I responded, “Te amo mucho también mi princesa,” I love you very much also, my princess. My heart sank and yet leaped with joy all at the same time. Even for just a day, I would treat her as though she were my own daughter—my precious little sweetheart.

As the day came to a close and we said our goodbyes, I shared one last embrace with my sweetheart. More tears were shed as she held out her wrist and gradually removed perhaps some of her most prized possessions—her beaded bracelets. Other girls followed in her footsteps, wanting to emulate the young girl’s kindness and generosity. I gladly accepted them, knowing that it would cause more harm than good to deny such offerings. I’ll never forget her face nor the revelation God gave me that day. Ministry is not about what we can do, but rather it is about what He can do through us. I didn’t have to be “well equipped” for my first day out on the mission field to be a blessing. God only needed my willingness to be used as His vessel.