I'm a firm believer in making lists and getting things off my brain. Sometimes it can get a little too crowded in this head of mine. So in reflecting on these 9 months, I realized that God has done A LOT. I realized that I am a different woman than when I started my sophomore year. I was led to take the time to express everything God has taught me this year, so that I can remember and give Him the glory. I pray that whoever reads this may be encouraged.
First, I want to say that I came into this year extremely positive. I was so excited about being a Resident Assistant and being on the BSU Lead Team. I had full confidence that these were things that God led and ordained me to be a part of, and I knew He would help me with juggling everything. But I wasn't always that positive as the weeks went on. I was a slave to my schedule on many occasions, and let it get the best of me and steal my joy. I STRUGGLED this year. But I'm better because of it. So I won't take a single thing back. Here's what God has been showing me, and molding me in (I need a lot of work).
~Being a leader is a high calling. A lot is expected, which can be exhausting. But leadership will teach you a lot about yourself, and about ministry. It is humbling and rewarding. The experience is life-changing: It's not something you can learn in a textbook.
~Ministry is messy. But God is the one who makes things happen. Even if it's last minute. *Requires complete dependency.
~Planning events is hard. But it's also very fun to see things come together and money being raised for a cause that you are passionate about.
~KEEP YOUR WORD. Give everything you have to what tasks you are given. Even when you don't feel like it. Being diligent and reliable is so important.
~When you are a leader in one area, you are a leader everywhere. People recognize you, and they know your name. Someone is always watching, but more importantly, God is too. Even when there's no one else around. You can't be fake with Him. So don't even try :)
~God calls us to be stretched past what is comfortable. There are so many times when I wanted to be nonexistent and just blend in with everyone else on campus... and do my "own thing." But God has other plans. And He just might have you share your testimony in front of the whole school :) He wants us to stand out.
~Sometimes, something that you thought was the last thing you wanted could end up being the best thing you could have imagined (my internship at a nursing home). Let your immediate response to everything be TRUST (much easier said than done). Go on this adventure called life with Him. I promise you, He knows. His will is the only way.
~Use the gifts God has given you. Don't waste it... He has a purpose for every detail, no matter how small.
~PRAY about EVERYTHING. Pray all the time. Listen to God. Don't ignore gut feelings.
~Apparently, I can be pretty entitled. But my moods don't control me. Neither do my circumstances. I really don't have the right to let things put me down, nor do I have the right to complain. Everything happens for a reason... and perspective goes a long way. So does lowering expectations of the world. We really can't escape inconveniences or bad things (wake up call, Ty). It's a fallen world. At least it's our temporary home. Contentment is based on belonging to Christ, not what's going on around you.
~~Life is about balance. Being busy is not an excuse to not spend time in the Word. I always heard that doing things FOR the Lord can actually distract from your relationship with the Lord, and it's so true. His Word is life, and without it, you will break down. We cannot do anything in our own strength.
~Discipleship and doing life with others is so important. I had the privilege to disciple an awesome girl this year and I learned so much about opening up and really digging into the Word. It brings so much healing to share in triumphs and set backs. (Being in a church that cultivates that is awesome, too).
On a lighter note :)
~The coffee shop is the perfect place for meeting with people. Counseling can happen anywhere. And I'm a firm believer that you don't need a degree to relate with people.
Love coffee.... love people. Bout sums it up.
~I am a HORRIBLE tap dancer. But I got through that class. Barely.
~People with disabilities are awesome.
~Being crafty is really fun, actually. I love creating things with my hands.
~Planning a wedding while in school is HARD. I don't really recommend it!
God can do so much in a short amount of time. I'm so thankful for this year of preparation for being a wife and being in ministry, wherever that may be. Taking life one step at a time is so important. Right now, I am becoming Mrs. Adkins and enjoying my summer as I work full-time. That's all I really need to know, and it is enough :)
As I look back, all I have left are memories in pictures, life lessons, and relationships that I will forever cherish.
To everyone in the BSU: It's been amazing working with all of you and making things happen! Countless campus links, events, and meetings. It's been so fun and I have really seen the power of Christ this year.
To everyone in housing: Man, what a year. It hasn't been easy. But honestly, if the worst thing that happened to me was someone knocking on my door at 1 AM to ask for a bowl, I'd say it all turned out ok :) Thank you to everyone who mentored me, and thank you for the endless encouragement and amazing relationships. You guys make me so happy and I love you all.
(Byrd 108, I'll always look back fondly on you. You were a good room).
~the end~
~i'm getting married~
can I get an AMEN!!??
