Greetings to my young sisters in Romania. Although we are miles apart, and our age difference is great we have much in common. You see, each of us has a destiny in Christ and all have an important story to tell with our lives. Honestly one thing I would offer to each of you is to STOP looking back at your mistakes. God takes our mistakes and somehow weaves them into a story of redemption. The Bible tells us in Psalm 139 that God formed our inward parts, and that no matter where we are He is with us. “Oh Lord you have searched me and know me. You know my sitting down and my rising up. You understand my thought afar off..”
So point number:
1. Don’t look BACK unless it is to tell someone the story of how God redeemed your life. Yesterday is gone and HE is present with you NOW. He has a future and a hope for you so look FORWARD. And know that sometimes it is hard to even imagine all that God has in store for you. 1 Corinthians 2 verse 9 reminds us: What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived, the things God has prepared for those who LOVE Him. Wow that is really good news!!
2. It is so tempting to look at others and compare what you see in their lives, to what you see in yours. I want you to hear me say this really loud…KEEP YOU EYES ON HIM…. not others. God has written His story on your heart and He wants you to live that story. Over and over we are told to give thanks on all occasions, to praise God no matter what our circumstances because that shows our trust in His goodness and builds our hope and faith. When you compare yourself to someone else it is very easy to start thinking thoughts that do not line up with God’s heart and word for you. Remember that when you look at others mostly you will see what they want to be seen. God always looks at our hearts and we are not so good at looking at another’s heart and seeing clearly. If you do look at others, try looking at them with the love of God not in comparing with you.
3. Know that you are not the only person wondering how you fit it in this life. Every person wants to belong, and to feel loved. And with Christ in your life, His love never changes and does not depend on your circumstance. Looking back on my life there are times I wish I would have encouraged others more, and given others hope. I would tell my teenage self to slow down and see what God is doing in my life right now. I would look for how He is working all things together for my good instead of worrying how I fit in.
4. Pick your friends wisely and then be a good friend. It is so important to build community with others who have hopes, dreams, and faith like you, friends who love the same God you do. It is not that you won’t have others in your life who may have different beliefs than you do, but for close friends lean toward those who do. You want to build relationships with others who will build you up in the love of Christ, those who will give you courage and hope. Finding friends that you can share your life, vision, and heart with is a gift from God. Treat your friendships with love and grace….and have lots of fun. And find a friend who is older than you that you can share your heart with. And don’t forget to be a friend to those younger that you that need encouragement.
I pray each of you will know fully the love of God and have many years of building others up, of growing in His image, and shining brightly where you are planted. I pray that you will be confident of His goodness toward you and certain of the hope of your calling and I hope to hear the stories of your lives! Much love to you from this older woman in Indiana who still feels young in her heart because of Jesus.
Love,
Carla
