Learning to rest + trust
One of the biggest lessons God has been teaching me recently is to rest and trust Him. There are many circumstances right now where it seems I can do little to change them for the better. He's been showing me to slow down and lean into Him, casting my burdens on Him. Then when I pick them back up, He's quick to remind me that I really can't do it but He can. Not only can but - He will.
Dealing with daily health issues
I'd like to be able to say that I am completely healthy each day and feel great. That's not the case right now but - I am so, so much better than I was earlier in 2017. Being off many of my favorite foods has been extremely hard. I choose that, though, over being as sick as I have these past 3.5 years. It's a relief to only feel sick a little each day or somewhat worse every few days. So am I all better now? Not yet. Am I getting there? I hope so!
Praying and praying and praying
Another big theme in my life lately has been prayer. Each day God brings something to mind or causes something to happen where I need to pray about it (this is always true but seems more prominent recently). Sometimes it's just a quick prayer. Sometimes I've had to pray and pray about it and I still don't know what He's doing. I'm learning that's okay and to keep praying. My favorite spot is heading to the nearby ocean where I can sit and speak with my Savior about what's up.
Embracing His goodness to me
2017 was a very tough year in many ways. I've come face to face with a lot of sorrow, loss and even trauma. I've suffered from nightmares on and off for 11 months. I won't sugarcoat it and say it's all okay, because it's not. But I smile in spite of all that because 2017 brought Jesus' presence even closer to me. I've come to see His goodness in a deeper, more beautiful way through all the hard times. I'm still in the midst of it all. I still see how He paints the sky for me. I still see how He sends me the naughtiest kid to come sit in my lap and hug me. I still see how He sends friends my way to point me back to Him. He's so good.
Praising Him because He's sovereign, He's near and He's here.
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Joanna Suich has been serving with VOICE Missions since February 2013. As a child, she attempted to dig her way to China, but only made it two feet in before her mom called her to dinner. Although Joanna never made it to China, God did bring her nearby to the island of Taiwan. She has a heart for all things involving missions, juvenile delinquents and adventures. God has placed Hualien in her heart and it's home now. She currently is doing college online as she volunteers, majoring in social work. If you're looking for Joanna, check the local village or orphanage and you'll probably find her there - playing, tutoring and sharing Christ's love and truth.
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