I have started and restarted this post about four different times, not really sure of what I wanted to say. This week, I have had so many different emotions from anger and frustration to love and thankfulness. I've recently started reading posts from my friend Stacie, who is one of the most beautiful, Godly women I have had the pleasure of knowing. Here lately she has been posting about three girls named Olivia, Kelsey, and Libby. These three girls are currently facing some of the toughest trials that life can throw at them. In particular Olivia, whom I've read the most about, is currently facing a life-threatening situation after being in a terrible car accident. (I strongly encourage you all to read Stacie's most recent post. It's life changing.)
http://usedbychrist.wordpress.com/2013/09/27/psalm-99-10-a-stronghold-in-times-of-struggle/
I want to take a moment to tell you about the girl who writes that blog. Stacie Holland recently graduated from the University of Mobile with a degree in Music Education. I have only known her for a little over a year, but I honestly consider her one of my greatest friends. It's an understatement to say that this girl and her family have been through the ringer. She has had things happen to her that most people could not even imagine, but never once did I ever hear her complain or feel sorry for herself. Her strength and determination are awe-inspiring, even though she would never admit it. She has lifted me up and encouraged me more times than I could count and I am so honored to call her a friend. I mention her because she reminds me so much of those three girls facing such terrible circumstances, because she never gives up. These girls have never given up. They aren't bitter or angry because of their circumstances. They aren't sitting locked up in their rooms feeling sorry for themselves. They're out there, living for Jesus harder than I have ever seen anyone live. These girls inspire me to be better. They remind me not to take life for granted, because we never know how much of it we have left. God is moving in these ladies so hard, and I am so excited to see how the world is changed because of their testimonies.
I mentioned in the beginning of the post that I had been somewhat of an emotional roller coaster this week. Between a crazy work schedule and coming down with bronchitis, I honestly have not been the best mood. I'm not going to try and pretend that I am this super perky ball of sunshine 24/7, because let's be real, I'm a girl; that ain't gonna happen. It's amazing though that God still manages to get to me even when I don't feel particularly reachable. I've been doing a devotion about Elisha and his ridiculous faith that he had in God. Between reading his story and reading the stories of those three girl, my faith was feeling incredibly sub par. That's the beautiful thing though: God doesn't compare us to each other. We're the ones that do that to ourselves. Because it's not us doing the moving, it's God. HE'S the one who gives us second chances and new beginnings, not us. So don't take this life for granted, please. Step out in absolutely ridiculous faith toward the calling the Lord has for you. Take the chances you were always afraid to take. Don't shut out your best friend just because you're afraid of being a little emotional. Live a life full of a love. Don't ever give up. In a nutshell, just live like Jesus.
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