GUEST BLOGGER FOR THE MONTH OF OCTOBER: Taking The Leap of Faith

If someone told me four years ago where I would be today, I would shake my head in disbelief. I always had an international interest although I had never been overseas – so when I told people I wanted to attend university in Europe there were two reactions, intrigue or skepticism.

At a certain point, I realized I needed to tune out what people were  telling me and turn up the voice of the Lord in my life! Remember, when the spirit pulls you – don't be afraid to follow. Regardless of finances, understanding, or rationality, as a child of God you have a calling, a purpose, and a hand over you that not enemy can surpass!

There are times when the Lord pushes you in a direction that you may not understand and for me, that direction was Hong Kong in January. As a full-time student in Rome, Italy, “Why are you going there if you are already abroad? And “You are doing too much” were common statements, but don't let the limits of others define who you are.

But in your life when an opportunity presents itself, do not let fear, misunderstanding, or doubt scare you out of your destiny! Ask God for guidance and enlightenment over situations with clarity and vision: Don't be afraid to share your feelings and speak with Him: and the most important thing is to cultivate your relationship with the Lord. 

Living overseas may seem like a glamorous experience (and indeed some of it is) but what most don't see are the sleepless nights working, frustrating cultural clashes, personal struggles, and isolation that life abroad brings.

If I didn’t have His hand guiding along the way, there is no way I would have made it where I am today. There have been times where I had to stop in my tracks and recite verses for a sense of peace. As I lead an international life closer with Christ, My experiences become more unimaginable.

A FEW OF MY LIFE TIPS

1.     Step outside your comfort zone.

2.     Think Smarter, not harder.

3.     You are compilation of your 5 closest friends.

4.     Don’t be afraid of doing something because of what people will think.

5.     What you habitually think largely determines who you will ultimately become. (Bruce Lee)

Scriptures on Direction

Proverbs 3:5-6

Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.

Isaiah 11:2

And the Spirit of the Lord shall rest upon him, the Spirit of wisdom and understanding, the Spirit of counsel and might, the Spirit of knowledge and the fear of the Lord.

GUEST BLOGGER FOR THE MONTH OF OCTOBER: ALEXANDRIA

Alexandria is currently a Senior at John Cabot University in Rome, Italy obtaining her BA in International Affairs. This summer she interned at the United Nations Foundation and is currently interning with the European Union. She is the Founder and President of JCU's Women's Leadership Initiative and plans to pursue postgraduate studies in foreign service.