A few things we've learned so far

The days have gone by so quickly and often Steph will exclaim, ”I can’t believe we live here!” It is amazing to think that we live in another country half way around the world from our family, friends, & familiar surroundings. It seems surreal at times but also already feels like home because we know we are right where God wants us to be. There is no better place than the center of His will. As we learn more about the culture, the people, the language, and the ministry, we acknowledge often, but not often enough, that we cannot do this alone. We need God to help us & we must rely on His incredible power. How often we forget though, and need reminding daily. We have learned that no matter where you are in the world, it’s easy to struggle with finding time to spend with the Lord. Yet, we NEED Him! Yet we are encouraged that He is abounding in love & faithfulness! We often look at the verses in John 15, particularly in verse 5 that says, “I am the vine, and you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

We have learned that where God is at work, opposition will arise. We continually must be on our guard and see the opposition for what it is….SMALL in the eyes of our BIG GOD. We are more than victorious through Chris Jesus and we know that He can overcome any obstacle that gets in the way of accomplishing His plans.

We have learned that there are many foreigners here….some for ministry, but many for pleasure or to retire cheaply. It’s quite intriguing and eye opening to meet people from all over the world and hear what brought them to Thailand. There is definitely a need to minister to the foreigners here.

We have learned that hearing from friends and family back home brings joy to our hearts. Though neither of us feels homesick, we certainly think about all of you often. Any time any of us get a personal email from someone just thinking about us, or someone updating us on his/her life, we get so excited and read it to each other.

We have learned that everyday we must be on the lookout because you never know what you will see and whom you will meet. We are trying not to take any of it for granted, and though we have only been here a month now, we know that it will go by fast and be done before we know it. We don’t want to miss any of it!