“Iron sharpens iron, and one man sharpens another.” -Proverbs 27:17
Wow these past three weeks were definitely both testing and sharpening! I have been in Gainesville, GA for the past three weeks being prepared mentally, spiritually, and physically to go overseas on my missions trip (all while roughing it in a tent).
What was training camp like?
Days at training camp (except for sabbath) were often full of teachings, worship, team prayer, Bible studies, morning workouts, cultural scenarios, free time to either relax or catch up on some bucket laundry, special events like squad wars or a squad hike, and so much more!
What did you learn and grow in during training camp?
One thing I learned during training camp is how to let go of unnecessary things, whether it be simple things like a mirror or a normal mattress, or more substantial things like loved ones from home. I believe we underestimate what we can stand to live without and Jesus is worthy of it all. “Whoever loves father or mother more than me is not worthy of me, and whoever loves son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me. And whoever does not take his cross and follow me is not worthy of me.”
Matthew 10:37-38
Another thing struck me while I was listening to a teaching about healing and miracles. The speaker mentioned that we often base our beliefs about what God can do in our lives on our experiences, rather than what the word of God says. Sadly, many times we doubt if God really wants to heal people because we haven’t personally seen it. Instead, we should ask the Lord in faith for healing and miracles of all sorts because we know that God is the God who delights in healing his children and preforming miracles for his glory.
Also, I have been learning how to stay firm in my personal relationship with the Lord in the midst of an environment where there are many other influences. It has been amazing to be in an environment where I am constantly being taught and encouraged by others in pursuing Jesus. Also, at the same time, I have occasionally felt a pressure for my relationship with God to look exactly like how those around me were demonstrating theirs. However, that has simply caused me to explore my relationship with God even more and realize the unique beauty in my personal friendship with Jesus.
To wrap up, training camp was exciting, stretching, and sharpening. Now, I am looking forward to this next week in North Carolina where I will be able to start serving others with what the Lord has given me.
Bye for now! -Elina Harbeson
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