Courageous

I had a rather humbling experience this week.

I was having issues with a student of mine who is normally kind, loving, and shines brightly.

Everyone has bad weeks. I know I do.

This week was particularly difficult for this student. I had found that some of her work was dishonestly done. In the midst of finding the correct punishment, I was being openly mocked, disrespected, and just felt like I was no longer wanted.

I have written about cultural fatigue and along with this kind of treatment I started to question why I was even here. The enemy had woven insecurities, exhaustion, and the circumstance I was facing to convince me that no one wanted me here. That I had left my friends, family, and comforts for nothing.

My fellow Haitian teacher noticed something different in me and came to confront what was going on. I didn't have to say anything but he spoke the truth and promise of hope in Christ.

He said,

Sometimes God brings you to places for reasons you do not understand. Sometimes He brings you to a place where you feel like you are not wanted. But take courage. He has brought you here. That's all that matters. Be courageous.

 I might not know exactly why I am here in moments like I had this week. But I will wait for the Lord to show me. If he doesn't, I will take courage and wait for the Lord.

Psalm 27: 14

Wait for the LORD;

be strong, and let your heart 

take courage,

wait for the lord.  

Grateful to say that I slept 11 hours last night and feel rejuvenated. Also, the discipline chosen will give many opportunities to work one on one with the student. Yesterday morning, this student even came straight to me so I could put my arms around her.

Hmmm, change in perspective.

Don't let the enemy speak lies into your circumstances. Don't let him rob you from a sweet embrace.

Be courageous.