A Cloud of Witnesses

Therefore, since we are surrounded by such a great cloud of witnesses, let us throw off everything that hinders us and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perseverance the race marked out for us. Hebrews 12:1

Throughout Scripture, God makes it clear that there is power in numbers. From the friendship between David and Jonathan and the companionship between Paul and Silas to the creation of Eve to partner with Adam to Jesus calling his twelve disciples, it is evident that God ignites power in numbers. God uses Christians to sharpen one another, to encourage one another, and to pray for one another. Sometimes it's those relationships that keep us going, give us discernment, or challenge us in some way. There is strength in this edification that sometimes cannot be explained.

I have been richly blessed these past three month to be encouraged and lifted up by a vast group of brothers and sisters in Christ as the Lord prepares me to leave for Peru. Many of these people have supported me financially, many have eagerly asked for updates, and many have responded to this calling by offering prayers on my behalf. I am humbled by the commitment and dedication and PRAISE GOD for using these men, women, and children to provide for me. WOW! If you are reading this, you are likely one of those people....so THANK YOU for your support.

Last Wednesday I was especially blessed as a group of these loved ones took time to come to my parents' home to pray over me before leaving the country. Each one shared verses from Scripture and other words of encouragement that are still running through my heart and mind as the Holy Spirit prepares me in ways I could not have even imagined. They then prayed over me, confidently asking for the Lord's protection and guidance. "The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." James 5:16

What a gift it is that God invites us to come together in prayer to Him! It reminds me of the early church in Acts 2 when it says, "They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. Everyone was filled with awe and many wonders and miraculous signs were done by the apostles." (Acts 2:42-43). I have been deeply supported by the fellowship that God has surrounded me with these past few months and the prayers so many of you have offered to God. May we be filled with awe together as the Lord works in us and through us not only in Peru, but in all the places that he has brought us to.