God's Purpose by Melody Bridges (El Salvador)

When you realize God's purpose for your life isn't just about you, He will use you in  mighty way.  -Dr. Tony Evans

    Most of my life I have made my purpose in life all about me. I thought my purpose would be God using my abilities and gifts. I didn't realize that God's purpose requires you to leave your comfort zone and go beyond what you can do alone. For me God didn't just lead me out of my comfort zone. No, I feel like I was a cannon ball being shot out of a cannon.  

    I am a true introvert. I despise small talk and would rather spend time one on one with people. I usually take time to open up to new people. In my first two weeks here, I have failed and succeeded at being open and getting to know new people. Even in my successes, I feel uncomfortable.

    When I first thought about being in El Salvador for a year I wanted to help the teens in the transition program.  I really wanted to stay at the girls' transition house.  But there wasn't a need at the time.  So I decided to trust God and was excited to stay at the mission house instead.  To my surprise, the day I arrived in El Salvador I found out I would be staying at the girls' transition house.  I was amazed at how God had worked it out.  I love when he smiles down upon us in unexpected ways!

    I have been in my new home for a week.  The language barrier makes it difficult to communicate with the girls at times, so I have been trying to spend time with them.  We have listened to music, watched tv and movies, and I was able to share about my nieces and nephews with some of the girls using my limited spanish.

    Please pray for the girls in the transition program and that I will be able to build relationships with them.  

2 Tim 1:7
For God has not given us a spirit of fear or timidity, but of power, love, and self discipline.

To learn more about Melody Bridges visit her page on the WMA website or visit her Blog.

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