refining

Hello!

I think I'm struggling to want to blog recently because God has been doing a lot of refining in my life lately. So it's hard for me to write things out and share when I'm in the middle of processing, growing, and learning.

I've been reading through Psalm 119. A chunk of verses every day. Reading it, writing it out, then praying it in my own words. At first, it felt like it wasn't applying. It was routine. As I was praying or reading, they were just words on a page. As I've continued doing this same process every morning, I have been in awe at the way that God's Word is ALIVE! I went back and re-read previous verses and prayers and was shocked at things I had written down so flippantly that seemed earth shattering a mere week later! My heart is changing without me even noticing. And the coolest part is that Psalm 119 is ALL about God's Word, following it, and always choosing His Word over our feelings and emotions. Some of my favorite verses are these from the Message.

"I set your instructions to music and sing them as I walk this pilgrim way. I meditate on your name all night, God, treasuring your revelation, Oh God" Psalm 119:54-55

"And let me live whole and holy, soul and body so I can always walk with my head held high." Psalm 119:80

"In your great love revive me so I can alertly obey your every word." Psalm 119:88

I've just been really challenged to allow God to work on my heart and let His words transform my mind. And His words show me where I am going. They cast light onto my dark path. I am in this for the long run. When things fall apart, God stitches everything back together. He festoons us with His finest sayings. I want to learn. God's promises are mine FOREVER. What a gift! I'm overjoyed! My concentration is on obedience. And it always will be.

On another note :)
Some things on my summer list are:
1. Take test to get Kama'aina so that I can officially have proof that I'm a resident on Maui!
2. Buy soft top rack for our van so that paddle boarding can become a regular part of my routine.
3. Focus on the church body of Hope Chapel and meet their needs like Jesus would.
4. Continue to let God's Truth sink directly into my heart and transform me from the inside out!

Aloha,
Risa