Hey All,
How's it going? Things with me are going pretty good. Work is going good, and outside of work is going really well. I've begun working hard with the new youth group and it is going pretty good getting to know the kids and all. The youth pastor is pretty much my long lost brother, so that is pretty cool, and he hasn't been here that long either, so we are getting in on the ground floor. So far I've mostly been helping out and hanging out on Sunday nights, leading a small group on Wednesdays, and we've had a few other events and things. We played flag football on the Clemson University practice field last night, which was PRETTY COOL!! Anyway, coming up there is supposed to be a guy camping trip Friday, possible Six Flags day, Youth Week(which includes movie night, couch treasure hunt, etc), plus Big Stuff(their summer camp which is a Thursday through Monday and will be lead by Doug Fields). This among lots of other opportunities of just hanging out and being around and available to the kids. So far getting to know them has gone well, and I feel like I'm beginning to bond with a few of them already. Please continue to pray that I would be usable to God and that He would lead me to be apart of the things that I am supposed to. Once again, I can already see God's hand in this area of my life. Please pray that I never lose sight of that.
Ryan, the next part is specifically for you. I know that you're leaving on Friday, and I hope that you read this before you leave. I saw you last post, and wanted you to remember one very important thing. God is taking you to Romania. He setup and designed for you to go on this trip, so continue to keep your faith in Him and He will bless your obedience. Remember how bad you wanted to be a counselor at Summersault, but God didn't want you there....He wanted you in Romania. Take that as encouragement and look forward to the many works that God has planned to do while you are there. You were right about one thing in your post and I have to phrase my response to it very carefully so that you understand what I'm saying. None of us will ever do truely great things WITHOUT God! You mentioned a list of people who are all wonderful people and who all have the capability of doing great things, as long as they rely and stay focused on God! And that is why you belong in that list, too! I know that it is hard, because I don't always live like it, but if we keep God in the center of our lives we can't help but do great things, because we'll be doing HIS things! My favorite verse is one that you should hold on to as you are in Romania and if things get tough. Exodus 14:14 states "The Lord will fight for you, you need only to be still." Have stillness of spirit and mind and have a faith in your savior and father that passes all reason. Pray and believe in His will. Have a good and safe trip, and I can't wait to hear all about it when you come back. You will be in my prayers especially as you are gone.
Well, all, that's about it. I probably need to get back to work now that lunch is just about over. I hope that all is going well for everyone. I miss you all and pray for you all. Know I'm only an e-mail or phone call away.
With Much Love and Care in Him,
Brandon
