Settling In

Well, I've now been here in the city for a few days. I've gotten to know the team (they've been really encouraging), and I'm beginning to be able to find my way around on a bicycle or a motorbike.

God has definitely given me grace so far because I have become well adjusted to the more difficult aspects of living here, despite my initial concerns. I have been doing a lot, and I have gotten the chance to meet many of the local people. I feel extremely encouraged about the people that are here doing work, and I am blessed to be a part of it. It's great to be able to have some fellowship with expatriate believers in a place that is so far away from home.

I know there is so much said about persecution in certain areas of the world...I even heard that 15 christians were recently arrested in a nearby province...but I have to say that it is not something that you daily live in fear of. I just can't help but think that this is not something that only "super-Christians" with some special calling do, but it is something that any/all believers could do. Sure, there are difficulties, frustrations, and problems, but they are definitely not more than we can handle when we are relying on God. He gives us strength, not just to put up with the conditions in which He has put us, but to flourish and enjoy it to the fullest.
I cannot say that I am someone who has always just had a perfect attitude about all of this...I have many of the same concerns as everyone else, but I've gone forward anyway...and I can promise that God is good when you follow Him, even if you're a little unsure about it at first. I have asked Him to give me joy in all circumstances, and He has absolutely delivered. I have not only had to endure or try to enjoy difficulties...there are many things that have been fun, exciting, and enjoyable.
I have had great fellowship with other believers, gotten the chance to feel a few moments of air conditioning, play some games, eat a hamburger, and even watch some local people sing karaoke...all this amongst serving God to the best of my abilities. I just want it to be known that God knows what we need, and He will offer reprieve where we need it.

So, at the moment, my tasks will be to become more comfortable with the area, language, and culture, to interview some people and look for opportunities, to take up some carpentry projects, and to serve where I am needed. There is much to be done! God bless