I have read through the book of Nehemiah several times. When I was a student at Patmos, we were required to read a book called "Victorious Christian Service," by Alan Redpath. It was a study of the book of Nehemiah. It blew my mind. I think it was my favorite book of all Patmos. Sometime last year God prompted to read through Nehemiah again for devotions and I was so moved by how God spoke to me through it. This term--my apartment has decided to study it together. :)
Allison never read Victorious Christian Service, and it wasn't in curriculum Katie's term (my other room mate) so we are reading through it together. But this morning I think I realized why.
It's been a crazy term. I feel like we just finished the first week of Patmos, and this is our first weekend. In reality, we just finished the 3rd week of Patmos, and all the Staff has been in Patmos "mode" for a week before that. It's a new term, in a new location, with a new load of challenges. Our leadership structure has changed. We've lost four fellow soldiers, and gained some "green hands." ;) On top of that, we have quite a large class of 24--a number which affects me and my work more than anyone. Basically this term has been very challenging-especially for the curriculum team, of which I am part.
I've sacrificed a lot of sleep, a lot of "off" time, and a lot of comforts. The other day I had a number of conversations that got me thinking this week: what about this term is different? Am I merely filling needs or am I truly ministering in areas God has called me to? I already felt like God has been stressing over and over that this is a time of training for me-but of course I don't know exactly what that means. I just know I am called to diligence and faithfulness.
And then I was reading Nehemiah chapters 3 and 4. Nehemiah is leading the people as they rebuild the wall of Jerusalem, but of course they have opposition that rises against them. I realized a few things:
-We as a staff (and I think me especially) are building a work for the Lord. (We are trying to establish Patmos in a new location/we are building students' spiritual houses/we are doing the work of discipleship) T
-The enemy wants to oppose us.
-We need to be vigilant (a spear in one hand/construction in the other)
-Sometimes there are seasons where you don't sleep, you put in all your effort until the work is completed.
I truly feel that this time is one of those seasons for me. It will be busy and hard. But I can't slack off for the sake of comfort or rest. I have been called here to help with this work, and right now this is what the battle looks like.
That having been said, I am so grateful to find moments of rest and refreshment from the Lord. I feel sustained and supported. As hard as I am working, the Lord is consistently meeting me, pushing me, and encouraging me.
Please pray for this class:
-they struggle a lot with rebellion and disrespect
-they are not united
-they live in their emotions instead of being founded in the Word of God
-many of them struggle with anxiety/other mental battles
God is working. I am grateful to be a part of it. I love you all.
