First Steps in Germany

I arrived in Germany on September 29th. At first, it was almost overwhelming just to try to function in a place where I don’t know the language or the little differences that make basic tasks difficult. These are constant reminders to “trust in the Lord with all [my] heart and lean not on [my] own understanding” (Proverbs 3:5)

In the midst of all of this, the Holy Spirit has been showing me how not only to trust in the Lord, but also to rest in Him. I read in Matthew 8:23-27 the story of Jesus and His disciples being in a boat during a storm while Jesus slept. Through this I see that I shouldn’t grit through these trying situations, but rest in the truth of who God is, and His word to me. Jesus knew they would be kept safe, so He rested. I know the Lord is with me, that He will keep me just the same, therefore I should also rest in this knowledge. I mustn’t let the appearance of my surroundings or circumstances outweigh these truths.

While in Germany, I attended a conference at a local church in Tübingen. It was a blessing to gather with fellow believers to worship God and to hear from local ministers and others from around the world. I made some friends there as well, which was just as much if not more of a blessing.

My time in Germany was merely one small step along my path, so it was hard at times to see the purpose the Lord had for me there. There will be more of these small steps, so I must trust that as I obey there will be fruit in the Kingdom of God. In Mark 4:30-32 Jesus compares the Kingdom of Heaven to a mustard seed: it is very small when it is put in the ground, but grows to be large enough for birds to make nests in the branches. This encouraged me that I may not perceive the tiny things that are going into the ground with my obedience, but there just may be a seed that will grow large for the glory of God.