God's Guidance Through Deputation
Just when I thought I was at my busiest, my schedule not only had most of the dates filled, but I was now traveling between several states. That is what happens when you have worked up a year of contacts, and will also say yes to anything available no matter the distance.
God also thought it would be good to stretch my speaking ability, simultaneously growing my prayer life. I'm not bragging here, but after giving the same presentation to church after church, I was surprised to be placed as the main speaker for three different events. I have never had that in ministry before and am thankful for those opportunities. I knew it could not have been of my own doing to get to that place or to carry through.
Trust in the Lord with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths. Proverbs 3:5-6
Since then, I have had to challenge myself to not just pray certain things before an event or the day of, and not just pray for guidance before I speak at a church, but to pray every morning that I would walk in His spirit; to have my words, thoughts, reactions, and perceptions guided by Him.
Let the words of my mouth, and the meditation of my heart, be acceptable in thy sight, O Lord, my strength, and my redeemer. Psalm 19:14
In April, I was able to travel to Pennsylvania and Ohio, then to Arizona. This brought me to my first event, celebrating Día del Niño. (Children’s Day) The Christian school had a few days of games, lessons, and skits centered around being a superhero for God!
In May, I was in Missouri, Alabama, and New Jersey. I got to speak at two different ladies events. I was able to teach the same things that God has been working on in my own life through devotions.
I will instruct thee and teach thee in the way which thou shalt go: I will guide thee with mine eye. Psalm 32:8
One was for Mother's Day teaching about "Continuing in the Journey" and also growing to understand others' journeys. The second event focused on prayer and thoughts for/toward other people. And to my surprise, that church decorated in the Romanian flag color scheme and had some Romanian dishes catered also, including the stuffed cabbages that they are so well known for.
For June, I was off to Colorado and Kansas, and the end of the month brought me to 74% of my support! I am looking forward to the final stages of deputation, and would be so grateful if you could be in prayer that I reach 100% by the end of the year and pray that there will not be any hitches when applying for my visa.
Thank you so much for your continued prayers and support!
In Christ,
Olivia West
