There have been times when I have been so discouraged with life, but especially with my relationship with Jesus. I want to have a deep connection with Him, and read my Bible every day, and pray all the time, and practice self control in my life... but I just couldn't do it! I knew I couldn't, and that's why I kept praying, "Lord, help me! Put a desire in my heart to spend time with you every day and the discipline to follow through." I would get so disappointed and discouraged when I wasn't making Jesus a priority in my life when I wanted to. I really did!! I looked at this as maybe a character flaw that I was unable to conquer, or even that God was breaking His promises by not answering my prayers. But, praise the Lord, He knows what is best and how things will work out.
     "For I am confident of this very thing, that He who began a good work in me will complete it till the day of Jesus Christ." [Philippians 1:6] He didn't leave me there to suffer in my frustration. Jesus lead me to a place where He knew I would grow, learn, and flourish in His love. Youth Rush has changed my walk with God, just like He knew it would. My prayer was answered! Not only that one, but also the one I prayed and have prayed since 8th grade. "Lord, please don't let this fire inside me die." It was the sincerest of prayers, and God has seriously made it happen in my life, for which I am so grateful! He has added so much heat to the fire, yet its more sincere,and not just like an infatuation. Jesus changed my desires and my interests in life. I can see the divine intervention in the workings of my mind, and it makes me so excited!
      God has definitely led me to where I am now, and I know He will lead me in the future. As I go back to Youth Rush for my 2nd summer, keep me in your prayers. Not just that I grow in Jesus, but also for the people I meet and the friends I make.  I can't wait to see what He has planned for me this time!