Finding Direction
When I made the decision to travel to Argentina, I didn’t feel nervous or overwhelmed. Now that the departure date is quickly approaching, I find myself thinking, “Holy crap! This is actually happening!” Despite the unknown, I eagerly anticipate this opportunity and thank God for his direction.
I spent this last weekend visiting Paul and my friend Wes in the Twin Cities. We had a lot of fun and enjoyed spending time together. We ate in the Hispanic part of Minneapolis during Mexican Independence Day, went to Oktoberfest, played poker, and had an all-around good time. Last night we drove down to Burnsville to hear John Bevere speak at Destiny Christian Center. When it comes to many preachers, I can take them or leave them. But when John Bevere is in your area, you find a way to go hear him. He spoke on part of his new series “Driven by Eternity.” Wow! The presence of God in that building was so palpable that people were sobbing as we prayed and asked God to help us live in such a way that we focus on eternity and not the fleeting pleasures of the few years on earth. You couldn’t help but leave feeling convicted, challenged, and resolute. I want to live within the framework of God’s destiny for my life so that I do not miss out on anything he has for me. It takes sacrifice, but anything less would be short-changing myself of God’s very best.
Last week I was listening to the book of Philippians and following along in my Spanish Bible. Before finishing the first 10 verses, the tears began to flow. I had been trying so hard to figure out my life that when I finally gave up and trusted God, I found this happening more frequently. I was struck by Paul’s words about his life not meaning anything compared to serving and knowing God.
The two countries I considered for Spanish immersion were Spain and Argentina. I cannot fully explain why I chose Argentina except to say that I know beyond any doubt God is sending me to that country. While learning Spanish will fulfill a longtime goal of mine, there will be more to this trip. The confidence I have in this decision and sacrifices required to make it happen can only come from the peace of the Holy Spirit. I am doing my best to obey God and put myself in a position to hear from Him. I expect the months I spend in Argentina to be some of the most challenging and rewarding of my life. Whether I find direction for my future, meet my wife, make lifelong friends, or all of the above, God will take care of me in Argentina.
