No God, No!

Ever ask God something and regret it later? Well i have. 

The story begins this past labor day weekend. I went camping in usk, WA with my college group. It was loads of fun. Between riding a motorcycle for the first time, shooting watermelons and tomatoes, hiking and digging in the Word with my peers; I had an awesome time. 

One of the days i stayed in the cabin while the others went slack-lining (basically hipster tight-rope walking) near the creek. I attempted to take a nap, but a pesky fly kept disturbing me. After the fly was dealt with i decided to take my bike and go on some of the trails in the woods and make my way towards the creek.

The creek was very tranquil. Sounds of water rippling, birds chirping, and the smell of evergreen trees surrounded me. I was reminded of verses in the Bible that referenced water; how Jesus had calmed the water; healing waters; God leading us to water; Jesus walking on water, etc. I put in my headphones and played some of my fav christian artist's songs and went and sat in the creek. At first the cold water was shocking, but eventually i got used to the frigged temperature (either that or i just went numb..) 

I started to think about various devotions that had been discussed over the course of the weekend; how i could see God in all of the speakers and how passionate and willing they were to share. I felt (and feel) blessed to have such great people in my life; it is truly answered prayer. As i sat there though, i noticed how of late i had been comfortable in my walk and faith in God. Dont get me wrong, im not doubting Him; but i feel that we learn the most when we are pushed outside our comfort zone and into situations that our inner nature would rather avoid or even think about. So with this in mind, I asked God to show me areas where i still had to grow; things i still needed to learn; or reveal to me things that i think i know, but am in reality naive to. 

I didn't know what i was asking to say the least. 

The week following was full of little tests, and it took me a couple of days to realized these troublesome events for what they were (lessons sent from God because i asked for it!). I questioned myself, why would anyone ask for more confusion, sadness, or doubt? Im not sure if i passed these 'tests' though. My first thought is that it might be a good sign that i recognized them for what they were. Furthermore i believe i handled the situations better than previously, I let others know what was going on, what was bothering me, and asked to be prayed over. At least one success is that i didnt cry..victory? 

Deuteronomy 31:6

Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid or terrified because of them, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

This verse brought to mind something my pastor reminded me of during our internship meeting this week. That God is always with us. Many people have a idea that God is somewhere 'out there' in space, and sees over us on earth, watching us from above. Yet this leads to views that God doesn't have a place in our everyday activities; and He does and desires to do so! Remember the sinners prayer? We ask God into our hearts. He is in us! He is always with us! We dont have to worry what the world brings or scary things that happen, all we have to do is be obedient and rely on God. Personally, i found this daunting at first. It is a lot of responsibility representing Christ all the time. Of course being human we are bound to make mistakes, which may reflect poorly on Christianity and God. Yet this isnt for me to be overly concerned with. It is God's job to work on the nay-sayer's heart; because He knows the root of their varying ways. 

Hannah Dykes