The Father’s patience is immeasurable.
I’ve been back in America for a little over 3 weeks now and seeing Him work day-to-day has warmed my heart in ways I never see coming.
My family has spent the last few days in one of our favorite places – the Great Smoky Mountains. Rain and mountains have gotta be two of my favorite things, and today I witnessed a stunning combination.
We also were able to see a baby black bear snackin on some blackberries.
Bears have been a big deal to me lately. My name means “brave and bold as a bear.” I always thought that was ‘pretty cool,’ but never dove deeper into it. My mum always tells me to be who I’m called to be, and I never thought of this in the context of my name. I am called to be a child of God, a brave and bold child for Him. Seeing the bear today was the perfect reminder I needed to be bold in situations I’d rather crawl away.
It’s taken me 18 years to fully believe this about myself, and the Father has been there all along in each moment. His character defines bravery and boldness perfectly. He’s there when I fall short of believing it as truth, He’s there when I clothe myself with it in the morning, and He’s there when I praise Him for His patience.
And He’s here now when I stand up in boldness to share what’s NEXT!
This fall, from August till December, I’ve been blessed with an exciting opportunity. Center for Global Action (CGA) is a program with Adventures in Missions filled with discipleship and wisdom through classes, scripture, and activation. I will be focusing on worship and worship leading, and I can’t WAIT to see what the Lord has in this.
I am beyond thankful for all the support each of you have given me with prayer, sweet conversation, and financial donations. I’m asking for your support on this next venture! Prayer is a must. I know the Lord will work, and I’d love to be partnered in prayer with you over this season! If you feel led to support with finances to help fundraise for CGA, you can click the link to the left that says ‘Donate!’ My goal is $5,950.
Blogs will be coming out every week, so to stay in the loop you can subscribe by clicking the red box that says ‘subscribe for updates!’ Thank you all so much for staying up to date with my life these past 9 months. I’ve gotta say, I have the best supporters a girl could ask for!
Here’s what I’ve been jammin to!
“Hideaway” by Magic Giant
“Prince of Peace – Live” by Hillsong United
“Speechless” by Dan + Shay
YES Bern! I love you and can’t wait to continue this journey with you!!
YESSSSS!!! So stoked to continue following your journey as the Lord leads you to new places! 🙂 Praying for you and this new season!
Wow, this is so good and I’m so glad the Lord continues to show you things and that you can still be apart of this great adventure with him!!! Can’t wait to read your blogs and see how the lord changes you and let’s you go through!! Ps also can’t wait for psl!!!
Wow, this is really cool! Also I did not know that was the meaning of your name. That’s pretty dope, haha. I already know the Lord is going to use you in AMAZING ways with CGA!
Bernadette,
Consider that your present state of “boldness” is always in comparison to your most recent or imagined experience of “timidity”. And, further, boldness is not something you manufacture, but, on the foundation of your present level of faith, He will give you to accomplish what He has put before you.
In His love, Doug
Hi there! Glad you’re spending some quality family time. Hope you continue to adjust to being home. My prayers are for you to be happy and use the gifts God has given you and all you learned on the race. Hope your next adventure is fulfilling and exciting! You will continue to be in my prayers. Hugs!
Crazy thankful for you, Lexi Lou! LOVE YOU!
You are too too kind!! I can’t wait to follow your journey as well — He has SO much for you!
Thank you so much for supporting me as a friend, Brooklyn! I love you so much!!!
Thank you so much, David! You’re such a great friend!
Wow, this is a few short sentences I’ll be chewing on for the next few weeks! Thank you so much for encouraging me in this way. I love you, Mr. Doug!
Thank you so very much, Miss Kristi! Your love and support are amazingly constant. Sending hugs your way!
Sweetie, I am so excited to be able to see you and hug you and chat with you (in person!)… and I’m also excited for what God has next for you ~ CGA!
I love what Doug M said about boldness and boldness and faith… may the Lord continue to increase your faith, as well as all the gifts of the Spirit!
Love you so much!!!
xoxoxox
Can’t wait to meet you Bernadette!
See you NEXT week!
-Morgan