Strengthened

"We can rejoice, too, when we run into problems and trials, for we know that they help us develop endurance (and patience). And endurance develops strength of character, and character strengthens our confident hope of salvation. And this hope will not lead to disappointment. For we know how dearly God loves us, because He has given us the Holy Spirit to fill our hearts with His love." - Romans 5:3-5

Last August I moved to New Jersey to teach. (I know, what was I thinking, right?) I'm at a brand new school that just opened this year and that has a very different philosophy of learning than the traditional setting. I teach the rough high schoolers that many others have lost patience with and who have given up hope. I moved away from family and friends. I'm "growing up." And it's been hard. I mean... crying myself to sleep more nights than I can count hard. But I've made it through. The past few months God has truly been showing me how trustworthy He really is. All the tears, all the lonliness, all the struggle... He has used it for good... He has been using my life in ways that I seriously could have never thought possible.

I have been humbled by the fact that He is infinitely greater than I am (and I studied infinity, so I get what that means ;) ).. and the fact that He still uses me for His purposes blows me away. Thus, the title of this blog. And not only does He use me through my weakness and mistakes and sinful flesh, He teaches me through those experiences. He has strengthened me so much this past year. It's been on my heart to start writing down my experiences and the ways God has been working in my life. Teaching brings many stories, and I hope to share them so God might remind you that He wants to be giving You strength through the tough times of your life as well.

May You be glorified.

__N