It's been a while since my last post and quite a few things have changed since then...
I've been living and studying in America for 3 months now to complete my 3rd year of Bible College. And what an INCREDIBLE 3 months it's been! I feel like my time here is already racing by with Christmas just around the corner and my graduation coming up in Spring 24.
I am currently living in a small mountain town called Woodland Park which sits in the Rocky Mountains and is very close to the famous Pikes Peak - in fact I have a beautiful view of Pikes Peak from my front door. It is snowing here quite a bit now that it's November, but it it's stunningly beautiful and this town has such a Christmas feel. It literally feels like living in a snow globe!
My 3rd year course has been jam packed with fantastic teaching, and getting to sit in and listen to incredible teachers and experts from all around the world has been so inspiring. To say I have been stretched and challenged during my time here is an understatement.
The 3rd year courses of Charis Bible College are much more practical - helping you hone in on your calling and equipping you with the skills you need, whether it's business, politics, missions, ministry, entertainment and so on. One of the things I really love about 3rd year is the emphasis on self leadership and character building so that you can sustain yourself in whatever God has called you to do.
This is one of my favourite quotes - "Most people don't lead their own lives, they accept their lives." - John Kotter in 'Leading Change'
My 3rd year track is Global Training which is very focussed on overseas work and missions. My biggest takeaway so far has been learning what it means to lead myself on a daily basis, surrendering my everyday and agendas to God. It's important because the key to success for your future is held in your daily habits and agendas. Really powerful.
Outside of classes, I've had amazing opportunities to help with some of the school's productions - being an extra in a TV show they are filming for release in Summer 2024, and doing some back stage work. I've also been getting back into dancing again with the weekly dance workshops they have for students and I've been able to volunteer some time to help another student's minstry focussed on helping vulnerable women.
I've made connections and friendships with incredible people who now feel like my second family, but what has been the best highlight is seeing how God has provided for my every need. Whenever I have needed a ride home, an item, or even some ingredients for a recipe I've been wanting to make, He has always provided it. I have never been short or without something. God is just so good and He cares about the small, mundane things as well as the big things.
I am often overwhelmed by how generous and full of love everyone has been. I am beyond blessed being here at what I know is exactly the right time for me. To come and study here has been a dream of mine since I was 16 years old and now that I'm here, it is a testament to God's goodness and faithfulness to His word.
So shall My word be that goes forth from My mouth; It shall not return to Me void, But it shall accomplish what I please, And it shall prosper in the thing for which I sent it.
Isaiah 55:11 (NKJV)
I really hope this update encourages you to take hold of your dreams and desires - whatever God has spoken to you, and to not let go. What He has done for me, He will do for anyone else who dares to believe and trust in Him.
But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.
Hebrews 11:6 (NKJV)
With love,
Kelly :)