"For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline." 2 Timothy 1 : 7
Before I sum up the talk for tonight I just want to welcome you all to the blog! I'm honored to still have the opportunity to write out a quick summary of large group for anyone who is unable to come, but also to provide a place for discussion. I really want this to be a resource for you to be able to share your thoughts, anonymously or not, and be able to get some insight. I think it is common for us to easily forget what we heard at large group and the ways God revealed himself to you. I would like this to become a place where we can search after that more. This year is going to be an adventure and I want to delve in as much as possible!!
You see, I am not a very adventurous person. I like to stay in my bubble; it's where I'm comfortable. But last year, I was pushed out of my box. A very dear friend encouraged and supported me to break out of my comfort zone and do things I would never done in the past. He did this because he saw opportunities that God was presenting me with. He saw those risks and pushed me towards them. And last year was an adventure! Last year is a period of my life that I can look back on and see tangible ways God was moving in my life. And it makes me excited for the adventure that awaits.
I knew that college would be an adventure in itself, but last year was more than I even dreamed of. I could have sought adventure on my own, but like Matt was saying tonight, Jesus led me to a greater adventure that changed me completely. Matt described it with white water rafting. This is something with such adventure and fun, but it only reaches it's full potential when guided by a wise guide. They don't steer clear of the huge waves and rapids, but rather send the raft where it will still be safe, but where it will be more adventurous and more fun.
Some ask if there is a God. Although there are so many different ways you can answer this, Matt mentioned that a life of adventure is some of the proof that He does exist. A life following Jesus should not be boring. God desires adventures for us; there is countless evidence of this in the bible. Jesus wants us to have the best possible life full of adventure; He does not choose the boring path for us. Stepping into this adventure looks like a lot of things for a lot of people but I think one thing we can all agree on is that it is scary. The rapids are daunting from a distance, but I want to encourage you to trust your guide, to trust Jesus, that He is leading you to the most fun and the best life you can have.
I speak out of experience when I say God rewards leaps of faith. Start looking for opportunities to risk for God and let Him guide you through them. And start praying through your fears. As a fellowship, we have seen amazing things happen through prayer. Bible Study leaders would love to pray with you and ask for guidance through the rapids.
What does this adventure look like for you? Is your adventure choosing to follow Jesus and let him be your guide? Or maybe the adventure is for you to share your faith and experiences with friends that don't understand now. Please share below!!
