Who am I?

People often ask me what has been my favorite part about Haiti.  I always pause, and think because honestly I have loved SO much about Haiti it is hard for me to think about my favorite.  Is it the new friends God has given me?  The neighbors who greet me everyday with a warm, smile, and love?  Knowing my students and becoming part of the Tugwell family? I think about where my heart was with the Lord when I moved to Haiti in July, then I remember my favorite part and that is the truth the Lord has revealed to me everyday here.  God had to take me away, take me through valleys, so I can reach the High Places in His presence.  I established Who I am in Christ, in Haiti.  I pray that you can understand who you are in Christ and the freedom He has for you!  It doesn't matter about your past, how you are feeling right now, He is pouring out His love over you and saying, "this is the way, walk in it".

I am God's child (John 1:12).  I am Christ's friend (John 15:15).  I have been justified- free from guilt and blame (Romans 5:1).  I am united with the Lord- we are one spirit (1 Corinthians 6:17).  I am bought with a price; I belong to God (1 Corinthians 6:19-20).  I am a member of Christ's body (1 Corinthians 12:27).  I am a saint (Ephesians 1:1).  I have been adopted as God's child- He chose me! (Ephesians 1:5).  I have access to God through the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 2:18).  I have been redeemed and forgiven (Colossians 1:14).  I am complete in Christ (Colossians 2:10).

I am free forever from condemnation (Romans 8:1-2).  I am assured that all things work together for good (Romans 8:28).  I am free from any charge against me (Romans 8:31-34).  I cannot be separated from the love of God (Romans 8:35-39).  I am established, annointed, sealed by God (2 Corinthians 1:21-22).  I am hidden with Christ Jesus in God (Colossians 3:3).  I am confident that the good work God has begun in me will be perfected (Philippians 1:6).  I am a citizen of heaven (Philippians 3:20).  I have not been given a spirit of fear; but of power, love, and a sound mind (2 Timothy 1:7).  I can find grace and mercy in time of need (Hebrews 4:16).  I am born of God, the evil cannot tough me (1 John 5:18). 

I am the salt and light of the Earth (Matthew 5:13-14).  I am a branch of the true vine, a channel of His life (John 15:1,5).  I have been chosen and appointed to bear fruit (John 15:16).  I am a personal witness of Christ (Acts 1:8).  I am God's temple (1 Corinthians 3:16).  I am a minister of reconciliation for Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17-21).  I am God's co-worker (2 Corinthians 6:1; 1 Corinthians 3:9).  I am seated with Christ in the heavenly realm (Ephesians 2:6).  I am God's workmanship (Ephesians 2:10).  I may approach God with freedom and confidence (Ephesians 3:12).  I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me (Philippians 4:13).   

I am Accepted.  I am Secure.  I am Significant.

Happy Thanksgiving!

I kept trying to think of a Facebook post to say how thankful I am.  I sat for a long time thinking about everything that God has done for me.  No words can express the gratitude I have for the Lord, His plan, His provision, and His love.  His love came down to rescue me from my selfish world.  He brought me out of darkness and into His marvelous light.  I am now an adopted, chosen daughter of God who is being used everyday to advance His kingdom.  How blessed am I, that the Creator of the Universe wants to use me to change eternity.  He sent His son so I can live freely in this sinful world.  How GREAT is OUR God!  I think about my family and friends and they are truly a blessing from Him!  I love how God uses people to encourage us even though He is our ultimate encourager. 

For Thanksgiving we went to a friends house.  There were about 50 people- both Americans and Haitians.  It was a sweet time for friends, new family, community, and fellowship.  God meets ALL of our needs before we even know our needs.  I will continue to trust and rest in His plans and give THANKS in ALL circumstances.