 Seth Ralston – Malawi 2018 – Peace of God “Rejoice in the Lord always. I will say it again: Rejoice! Let your gentleness be evident to all. The Lord is near. Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:4-7 Week one is in the books in Malawi and we’ve had an incredible time so far! However, this year feels a little different from my previous MOAM trips to Uganda and Ghana…mainly because life “back home” has been so different. Joining the team at MOAM six months ago and then asking Andrea to marry me a few weeks ago have been two of the greatest decisions I’ve ever made. But as big career moves and life choices are made, everything can become even more busy. Responsibilities and expectations are added, and the pressures and temptations of the world can sometimes seem too overwhelming. This morning at a small Baptist church in Malawi, the message was short…but sweet. I’m not sure how or why, but something clicked as I read through the passage. As we studied through the verses in Philippians 4, a conviction came over me…has my life truly reflected the peace of God? Up until arriving in Africa, I would have said yes to this question! But after spending our first week with these 90+ children, I’m guilty of not always living this out, allowing the busyness and pressures of the world take that peace from me. So how can I better exemplify this peace of God? Well, regardless of my circumstances or seasons of life, I must intentionally pursue these qualities in chapter 4. Rejoice in the Lord always. Be gentle and gracious to everyone. Don’t let anxiousness or worry control you, and continuously present your requests to God. These orphaned children in Africa are teaching me this every day. And I hope to allow this peace of God to transform me here in Malawi and once I return back to the states. May the peace of God wash over all of us! To God be the Glory! Apply to join a future MOAM Mission Trip! Request a Clean Out For A Cause Donation Collection Box! Make a tax-deductible, online donation to MOAM!
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