PFO Day 7 - Praise You in This Storm

PFO - one word descriptor - emotional.  This coming from a guy, who in our society is not supposed to show many emotions.  Wow, I'm really tired of crying.  They should give out disclaimers before speaking like CAUTION: You may weep during my speech.  Thankfully, God is in the middle of the tears.  Tears helping to cleanse the soul of spot and blemish to bring refreshment and healing.  In the midst of one of the greatest storms of my life, I am finding peace, friendships, joy, and direction.

"I lift up my eyes to the hills—where does my help come from? My help comes from the LORD, the Maker of heaven and earth. He will not let your foot slip—he who watches over you will not slumber;" - Psalm 121:1-3

One big step down today.  Our flights to Vienna were booked this afternoon for July 31.  Faithfully, we know God has begun this work in us and will be faithful to complete it, sending us to a ripe field ready for harvest in Austria.  Please pray...pray...and never stop praying for us.

"The safest place to be is in the middle of God's Will." - Dr. Daniel Egeler

On a lighter note: some pics of a beaver, yes a beaver and my little Caylah-Bear.

PFO Day 6 - Slings and Arrows

Today in NY has been a day of ups and downs.  Great teaching, full of thought provoking insights reminding us that mature love can transcend all cultures, languages, and faiths.  Inspiring movie and discussions...and then the Enemy rears his ugly head.

Spiritual Warfare starts in the deep places of the heart.  Places that, unfortunately, have not been made captive to the Holy Spirit.  For me, it's a place of fear and worry.  Fear about not making it to Austria, fear about leading my family into a bad situation, fears about leaving our comfort places, and fear about failing.  These have been used against me this night.  Trying to cripple me, stealing my joy and hope, so that I am so frustrated and angry that I'd quit and return to the safety of comfortable life. 
Father, forgive me for even entertaining the thoughts, hold them captive in the name of Jesus, and lead us into Your peace and Joy as we prepare for the mission of our lives.
"God is standing in the fire..." right beside us all the way!!!