Today on the radio on my way to work I was reminded of a program called Teen Challenge USA, which helps teens, adults, and families who are struggling with addiction or accidental pregnancy while sharing the word of God. I first heard about this program in high school through my youth group. I remember at an Ohio Youth Conference for Assemblies of God churches about 8 years ago they had an information table. When I heard about the amazing program that they offered, I was immediately drawn to the idea of Christian centers (in the form of half-way houses and programs) that help teenagers work through tough things like addiction and pregnancy, among other things. It's incredible what this program offers.
On the page of "becoming the change," I felt like maybe this was a way God was calling me to help out in my area. The closest Teen Challenge center is in Jonesville, Michigan (about 60 miles away from BG) and it is a maternity center for teenager girls who find themselves pregnant and with no where else to go. I emailed the main office of the center to ask about volunteer or work opportunities, explaining why I felt God might be leading me to work there. We'll see what kind of response I get; fingers crossed that it's a good one!
So now I wait and pray. Is this where God is leading me to start being the change? Maybe. I'm going to trust in Him to lead me in the right direction.
On a side note, I had an epiphany about my personal life from God last night. Due to a breakup about 3 and a half months ago, I have been seriously dealing with a broken heart and questioning my belief in love (not Godly love, just romantic love between man and woman) and relationships. I swear I pray almost every day for healing of a broken heart and a renewed belief, but I've been doing it from the perspective of "so that I can find another relationship, possibly with my ex." This was totally wrong!! While talking with my roommate about what I wanted in a relationship, religion-wise, with any future man, I realized that I don't want a man who is just a Christian--I want a man who puts his relationship with God BEFORE his relationship with me! How awesome would that be?! I've never had a relationship with someone like that before, but I know that that is what God is calling for in my life, especially with where I am at with Him right now, and I have never felt so sure and so blessed about something in my life! It's an amazing feeling, and honestly, while I may have had to end a potential relationship with a great guy, I know that I'm following what God wants for my life and that He will reward me with something so much greater and wonderful. So I'm doing it---I'm dropping my own preconceived ideals about relationships and letting God take this one over, and I've never felt so good and confident about something! God has shown me so much over the past few weeks, and I can't wait to see what else He has in store for me! :)
God always rewards obedience with great blessings. So follow where He leads you and you will be blessed beyond your wildest imagination- which will likely include finding a life partner who shares your beliefs, and supports your spiritual journey. When you were baptized, Pastor Beck stopped the ceremony and declared that God had something very special planned for you. Perhaps you have finally reached the place in your life where you are ready to receive. Keep your heart open to His calling, can't wait to see where He leads you!! Love, Mom
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