Hey world!
First off, I'm so grateful for the weather change. Redding has been ridiculously hot and it feels so nice to have cool, cold, and wet weather. It came right on the first of October and has stayed since then! Answer to prayers? Yes!! Anyway, we are finally completely in the swing of things at school. We have a core group of people that we meet with once a week called a Revival Group and it's overseen by a Revival Group Pastor. This year, I was placed in Marlene Aaronson's group and couldn't be more grateful! In my group, we have about 70-75 people from first year (I don't know the exact number). It definitely is quite the endeavor to try and meet all of them and to get to know them all personally. But I feel like I'm definitely further than I ever thought because God miraculously made us a family right away. We all bonded as brothers and sisters so closely ever since we all gathered together the first time. It's so funny to think that this is exactly what I needed, a family of revivalists!
So we went on our school retreat which consisted of about 4-5 revival groups going up to JH Ranch in Etna for 2-3 days. It was amazing! It was beautiful, and cold, and the food was amazing! That was definitely a time when my revival group really started to connect with each other on a heart level.
Anyway, besides being so amazingly overwhelmed and overjoyed by the group I've been placed in, I'm so excited to see what God is going to do this year. In this school, they offer quarterly classes called AMT's (Advanced Ministry Training). Right now, I've chosen to be in Supernatural Evangelism because I felt like God wanted me to get out of my comfort zone, trust Him, and step out to truly love people. I still have a lot to learn but I'm definitely hopeful on this! Another thing to mention is that last night they opened up the applications to register for a mission trip! I'm so excited for this! All mission trips are in the end of March-beginning of April and go everywhere. We can only choose 5! I chose Japan, Thailand (Mae Sot), Thailand (Pattaya), New York City, and Los Angeles. I'll let you know when they tell me where I'm going! I'm not too sure on the financing part but I know God is Jehovah Jirah- the God who provides! Woot!
Speaking of finances, I'm still looking for a job. It's been really discouraging lately because every place that says they are hiring online, I'll go and talk to them and they'll say they just hired someone or they aren't hiring at all. Ugh. I've been consistent at going into places over and over to check on the application but I still have not received any calls for interviews. Not sure what this is going to look like, but unlike last year, I'm not giving up! I made a huge mistake last year in hardly putting in an effort for the job hunt so I'm really trying this time. The only big concern I have right now would be for my car and for gas! Redding is quite the big "town" and it does take a lot of gas to get to places......gas/money I don't have! And, my car is in need of desperate repairs so I can register in California. So, if you have nothing better to do but pray, feel free to pray favor into my car and this situation! :D Anyway, I'm not too worried because God is really teaching me to trust Him and to give my cares to Him because He cares for me. He really does come through every time, even though it does seem impossible! But until the miracle comes, I will continue to put an effort into doing what is best! Job hunting! Yay! Oh and pray that I get a job! ha ha!
Anyway, school continues to blow my mind! God is doing such an amazing work in me and my classmates this year! I continue to be grateful for all the amazing teaching we have been receiving and for the amazing teachers that pour into our lives! Kris Vallotton yesterday spoke on purity and even though I've heard this message and story about 4 times now, it never gets old. It has inspired us all into a new level of purity that we won't back down from. Besides that, the teachers move in the Holy Spirit and sometimes will just allow us to worship during class time or they release healing. So many people came broken and wounded and God has really been taking the time to touch the heart of the students. It's been so good!!!! It's like there's a whole new level of freedom that has just been released for my class! And it's only the 2nd month of school!!!! Wow!!
I guess that's all I can think of for now. I can't wait to see what God's going to do next! Feel free to contact me in anyway and let me know how you are doing or if you need prayer! I love you all very much and pray that you get rocked by God's love as well! :D
God Bless,
~Jess~
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Friday, September 16, 2011
With a Hint of Destiny in the Air
Hey all.
Here's a quick update on my life:
On August 30th, I moved back down to the Redding area and am living at the house I lived at before. I find myself amazed at God and how He has provided for me in so many ways. I needed housing, He brought the perfect place, I needed my tuition paid for, He provided an amazing family who would help on that, I need a job, and even though it hasn't come through YET, I know He will provide that as well just like He always has. I'm currently immersed completely in the job hunt and have been trying everywhere I can think or look. I've applied to more places that I can count and have given over a dozen resumes out. Even though it doesn't seem like anything's coming through, I know God has the perfect job or provision for me. And in this time, I realize that God is teaching me more and more each day to trust Him. Being anxious and stressed about all of this will just kill me in the end. Needless to say, my car is in desperate need of repairs in order just to be registered in California. And don't even get me started on the most ridiculous thing I've ever done that is now costing me a huge ticket....and not in the good way. But God is faithful and He will come through, even in my mess ups and mistakes. Thank you God!
Anyway, besides all of that, I've started school at Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry and already am in love with my class. It's bigger than last year and it sounds like we may move to the Redding Civic Center for classes!! We have a class size rumored to be around 1,000!!! It's so amazing and overwhelming at the same time but I'm so grateful I get to attend my dream school finally after contending for it for 3 years now! I know this year is going to be the most amazing year thus far in my life and it's going to transform me!
I'm also looking forward to a mission trip. Even though I don't have a job as of now, I do plan to go on a mission trip to who knows where. Mission trips happen in March at this school and we don't choose where we go until October it sounds like. Funny thing is, I know God will provide for that too! I've come to realize in my walk with Christ how blessed I truly am and how much favor and peace are on my life. I can only say that it's a divine peace that God has placed on me after all these past years of worrying and freaking out about every little thing. It's such a relief to know that God cares, God loves, and God comes through! Everytime, period!
So anyway, there's my rant on that! I'm so grateful to everyone reading this and to everyone who has poured into my life all these years! And for the people who continue to encourage me to pursue my dreams, thank you!! Well, I best get going for I have school today!! :D
Anyway, I hope you are all doing well and I'd love to hear from you! Whether good or bad, or maybe what God's doing in your life, or even if you have a prayer request, don't hesitate to contact me! I'm on facebook, skype, I have emails, and a phone number! LOL
I love you all and will let you in on more of what and how God's moving in me this year, k?
God Bless!
~Jess~
Here's a quick update on my life:
On August 30th, I moved back down to the Redding area and am living at the house I lived at before. I find myself amazed at God and how He has provided for me in so many ways. I needed housing, He brought the perfect place, I needed my tuition paid for, He provided an amazing family who would help on that, I need a job, and even though it hasn't come through YET, I know He will provide that as well just like He always has. I'm currently immersed completely in the job hunt and have been trying everywhere I can think or look. I've applied to more places that I can count and have given over a dozen resumes out. Even though it doesn't seem like anything's coming through, I know God has the perfect job or provision for me. And in this time, I realize that God is teaching me more and more each day to trust Him. Being anxious and stressed about all of this will just kill me in the end. Needless to say, my car is in desperate need of repairs in order just to be registered in California. And don't even get me started on the most ridiculous thing I've ever done that is now costing me a huge ticket....and not in the good way. But God is faithful and He will come through, even in my mess ups and mistakes. Thank you God!
Anyway, besides all of that, I've started school at Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry and already am in love with my class. It's bigger than last year and it sounds like we may move to the Redding Civic Center for classes!! We have a class size rumored to be around 1,000!!! It's so amazing and overwhelming at the same time but I'm so grateful I get to attend my dream school finally after contending for it for 3 years now! I know this year is going to be the most amazing year thus far in my life and it's going to transform me!
I'm also looking forward to a mission trip. Even though I don't have a job as of now, I do plan to go on a mission trip to who knows where. Mission trips happen in March at this school and we don't choose where we go until October it sounds like. Funny thing is, I know God will provide for that too! I've come to realize in my walk with Christ how blessed I truly am and how much favor and peace are on my life. I can only say that it's a divine peace that God has placed on me after all these past years of worrying and freaking out about every little thing. It's such a relief to know that God cares, God loves, and God comes through! Everytime, period!
So anyway, there's my rant on that! I'm so grateful to everyone reading this and to everyone who has poured into my life all these years! And for the people who continue to encourage me to pursue my dreams, thank you!! Well, I best get going for I have school today!! :D
Anyway, I hope you are all doing well and I'd love to hear from you! Whether good or bad, or maybe what God's doing in your life, or even if you have a prayer request, don't hesitate to contact me! I'm on facebook, skype, I have emails, and a phone number! LOL
I love you all and will let you in on more of what and how God's moving in me this year, k?
God Bless!
~Jess~
Monday, July 25, 2011
Taking a Giant Leap of Faith
Hello all!
I send you greetings from the hot state of California. It's July already. Can you believe it? Anyway, here's what's been going on lately. I didn't know this but California requires that you register your car here 20 days after you move here....whoops.....I kinda dropped the ball on that one. So I've been working feverishly to do just that and in order to register here you have to pass a smog test.....and go figure, my car doesn't pass. So I take it into the shop to see what needs to be fixed now and was shocked to see that it would cost an arm and a leg to fix these certain things. Lame!!! So I'm scratching my head and wondering what in the world to do now since I have such a limited budget until I get a job. Oy.
Well, besides that, I've begun the painstaking process of finding a job in Redding for when I move down there. Not so easy to check in on applications when you live two hours away. And then there's the priority of housing as well. LOL Sounds like I'm in quite the predicament but luckily there's still time so I will continue to go all out to search for these things.....any chance you could be praying for a miracle? That's always a relief.
Anyway, so enough about the bad news. I got to go strawberry picking for the first time a couple of weeks ago and then got to go cherry picking for the first time two nights ago! Hooray for firsts!
We had a painting day and I enjoyed it very much but I hate one thing, I'm such a perfectionist that when I try to paint the beautiful pictures that are in my head, I get so frustrated because it never comes out the way I want it to. Oh well, I guess there's always room for growth right? :D And as they say, practice makes perfect.
Honestly, I can't really think of anything else to update you on. I can tell you this, God is good all the time and He is my Provider. He loves you so much, it truly is a mind-blowing miracle of what Jesus did for us. I find myself being reminded of what Jesus did lately. He still continues to do a deep work on my heart and I'm so grateful that He hasn't given up on me yet. I'm not perfect by any means but I know that His love will cover me and will heal me and take me so much deeper. I want to be right smack in the center of His will for I know that it's the best place for me. I find rest in Him, I find true peace, I find true love. I'm hoping that any and all who are reading this could have a revelation of how much God loves you. Don't let your broken heart, anger, bitterness, and hatred keep you from the amazing destiny God has for you. Just put your trust in Him and I can assure you that everything's going to be ok. It may not be easy, but He won't abandon you either.
Anyway, there's my advice for the day. I love you all very much and miss you all tremendously! May God shower His love on you today and everyday!
God bless,
~Jess~
I send you greetings from the hot state of California. It's July already. Can you believe it? Anyway, here's what's been going on lately. I didn't know this but California requires that you register your car here 20 days after you move here....whoops.....I kinda dropped the ball on that one. So I've been working feverishly to do just that and in order to register here you have to pass a smog test.....and go figure, my car doesn't pass. So I take it into the shop to see what needs to be fixed now and was shocked to see that it would cost an arm and a leg to fix these certain things. Lame!!! So I'm scratching my head and wondering what in the world to do now since I have such a limited budget until I get a job. Oy.
Well, besides that, I've begun the painstaking process of finding a job in Redding for when I move down there. Not so easy to check in on applications when you live two hours away. And then there's the priority of housing as well. LOL Sounds like I'm in quite the predicament but luckily there's still time so I will continue to go all out to search for these things.....any chance you could be praying for a miracle? That's always a relief.
Anyway, so enough about the bad news. I got to go strawberry picking for the first time a couple of weeks ago and then got to go cherry picking for the first time two nights ago! Hooray for firsts!
We had a painting day and I enjoyed it very much but I hate one thing, I'm such a perfectionist that when I try to paint the beautiful pictures that are in my head, I get so frustrated because it never comes out the way I want it to. Oh well, I guess there's always room for growth right? :D And as they say, practice makes perfect.
Honestly, I can't really think of anything else to update you on. I can tell you this, God is good all the time and He is my Provider. He loves you so much, it truly is a mind-blowing miracle of what Jesus did for us. I find myself being reminded of what Jesus did lately. He still continues to do a deep work on my heart and I'm so grateful that He hasn't given up on me yet. I'm not perfect by any means but I know that His love will cover me and will heal me and take me so much deeper. I want to be right smack in the center of His will for I know that it's the best place for me. I find rest in Him, I find true peace, I find true love. I'm hoping that any and all who are reading this could have a revelation of how much God loves you. Don't let your broken heart, anger, bitterness, and hatred keep you from the amazing destiny God has for you. Just put your trust in Him and I can assure you that everything's going to be ok. It may not be easy, but He won't abandon you either.
Anyway, there's my advice for the day. I love you all very much and miss you all tremendously! May God shower His love on you today and everyday!
God bless,
~Jess~
Monday, June 6, 2011
Learning to Wait
Hello all!
I hope I find you all well on this beautiful summer day. I can't believe it's already June! My goodness, this year has flown by.
Good news, I've been accepted to BSSM for this fall and my tuition is totally paid for! Praise God! I'm totally excited to see what God will do this fall. As of right now, nothing too new is happening. Just staying busy with helping this amazing family.
I tried out rafting for the first time the other day. It was my very first time attempting to get into a wetsuit which epically failed so I had to wear a bigger one that kinda choked my neck and caused me to gag for a while until I got used to it. I never knew I could feel claustrophobic in my skin while attempting to wear a wet suit. Weird. But hey rafting was fun. Besides being a little chilly when the sun disappeared behind the clouds and the wind picking up. It was only a Class 1 apparently and now I'm itching to try a higher class. It was good for a beginner like me to learn the ropes of paddling in a weird, big, tube-like raft. LOL I had fun though.
Another random note, I've picked up knitting since living here. It's funner than I thought! I've been making scarves like crazy (since that's the only thing I know how to make so far lol). If you want one, let me know! te he!
Lately, I've had this huge inspiration to do art. I've had so many ideas rolling around in my head. Now to just figure out how to get them on paper. I've picked up a love for anime since going to Colorado and have been attempting to draw anime-like people. I've been hanging around some amazing artists lately that have been inspiring me. And I've been painting lately. Which I've been longing to do so much recently. I do post my art on a website if you'd like to check it out:
http://tinkerbell594.deviantart.com/
Also, living at the Travis house gives me the chance to play a real piano. I'm so in love with the piano they have here that I never want to go back to a keyboard. I'm slowly but surely learning sheet music and how to play it. I'm also learning all my favorite theme songs! It's so exciting and I'm so grateful that God has placed amazing people in my life to help me achieve my dream of learning how to play piano. It's been fun.
Is it weird to say that I feel like God's going to grant some really big dreams of mine soon? I do, it's exciting. I can't wait to see what He's going to do next!
So yesterday, I spent the day going through all my cards and letters that I've saved up over the years and am totally amazed. I was such a different person back then....it's weird. At the same time, it's fun to relive my childhood memories. I think I can honestly say that I had a great childhood. Now however, it has me really missing a lot of people. Going through letters they sent me, really has me missing my family and friends so much. So guys, I miss you! All of you! :D
I realize lately that God has totally changed my heart for the idea of missions. I used to hate the thought of going and doing ministry because I was so afraid. Now however, I'm so excited to go. I want to go everywhere. And see all kinds of different people and cultures. I want to go to orphanages and love on children. I want to run to the brokenhearted and just hold them and say it's going to be ok. I want to see so many people's lives transformed by the love of Jesus. It's real, so real.
Anyway, this is just me. Ranting about my dreams and hopes for the future. Somehow, I feel like it will happen. And I can't wait! So now is just a time to sit and focus on Him and remain patient for the next step. I desire so strongly to meet my one and only and finally get married. I notice so many of my friends and family that are my age and even younger are married, engaged, or at least dating. And that's so amazing! I'm so happy for them! At the same time, it makes me so impatient. LOL Pray for patience for me, K? ha ha.
So there ya have it folks. A kinda random little update on my life. I love you all and miss you tons! And don't forget that God loves you tons too!
Love, peace, and chicken grease,
Jess
I hope I find you all well on this beautiful summer day. I can't believe it's already June! My goodness, this year has flown by.
Good news, I've been accepted to BSSM for this fall and my tuition is totally paid for! Praise God! I'm totally excited to see what God will do this fall. As of right now, nothing too new is happening. Just staying busy with helping this amazing family.
I tried out rafting for the first time the other day. It was my very first time attempting to get into a wetsuit which epically failed so I had to wear a bigger one that kinda choked my neck and caused me to gag for a while until I got used to it. I never knew I could feel claustrophobic in my skin while attempting to wear a wet suit. Weird. But hey rafting was fun. Besides being a little chilly when the sun disappeared behind the clouds and the wind picking up. It was only a Class 1 apparently and now I'm itching to try a higher class. It was good for a beginner like me to learn the ropes of paddling in a weird, big, tube-like raft. LOL I had fun though.
Another random note, I've picked up knitting since living here. It's funner than I thought! I've been making scarves like crazy (since that's the only thing I know how to make so far lol). If you want one, let me know! te he!
Lately, I've had this huge inspiration to do art. I've had so many ideas rolling around in my head. Now to just figure out how to get them on paper. I've picked up a love for anime since going to Colorado and have been attempting to draw anime-like people. I've been hanging around some amazing artists lately that have been inspiring me. And I've been painting lately. Which I've been longing to do so much recently. I do post my art on a website if you'd like to check it out:
http://tinkerbell594.deviantart.com/
Also, living at the Travis house gives me the chance to play a real piano. I'm so in love with the piano they have here that I never want to go back to a keyboard. I'm slowly but surely learning sheet music and how to play it. I'm also learning all my favorite theme songs! It's so exciting and I'm so grateful that God has placed amazing people in my life to help me achieve my dream of learning how to play piano. It's been fun.
Is it weird to say that I feel like God's going to grant some really big dreams of mine soon? I do, it's exciting. I can't wait to see what He's going to do next!
So yesterday, I spent the day going through all my cards and letters that I've saved up over the years and am totally amazed. I was such a different person back then....it's weird. At the same time, it's fun to relive my childhood memories. I think I can honestly say that I had a great childhood. Now however, it has me really missing a lot of people. Going through letters they sent me, really has me missing my family and friends so much. So guys, I miss you! All of you! :D
I realize lately that God has totally changed my heart for the idea of missions. I used to hate the thought of going and doing ministry because I was so afraid. Now however, I'm so excited to go. I want to go everywhere. And see all kinds of different people and cultures. I want to go to orphanages and love on children. I want to run to the brokenhearted and just hold them and say it's going to be ok. I want to see so many people's lives transformed by the love of Jesus. It's real, so real.
Anyway, this is just me. Ranting about my dreams and hopes for the future. Somehow, I feel like it will happen. And I can't wait! So now is just a time to sit and focus on Him and remain patient for the next step. I desire so strongly to meet my one and only and finally get married. I notice so many of my friends and family that are my age and even younger are married, engaged, or at least dating. And that's so amazing! I'm so happy for them! At the same time, it makes me so impatient. LOL Pray for patience for me, K? ha ha.
So there ya have it folks. A kinda random little update on my life. I love you all and miss you tons! And don't forget that God loves you tons too!
Love, peace, and chicken grease,
Jess
Friday, January 28, 2011
A New Area To Explore!
Hello world!
It's me again! I do exist still and haven't fallen off the face of the Earth. Instead of this being a blog, it's more of a time for me to recollect my thoughts and recall all the things that God has done in my life for the past few months....since I can't keep up with a weekly blog! LOL
So here's an update:
I'm no longer attending BSSM for this year. Some of you know that I did have to leave the school for a lack of finances which of course, was totally my fault. Honestly, I was going off of faith and I totally believed that God would provide it all like He promises. I was a fool though to sit back and wait for God to move when I should've put in some effort. Oh well. We learn from our mistakes, right? So this all went down in the end of October and it left me hurt and confused. I was really excited about the school and really looking forward to an amazing year there, but little did I know, God had other plans. :D
So, remember that family I mentioned in a previous post that took me to the Bahamas with them? Well, I got to go visit them a few more times throughout the month of November and was asked to go up for a couple of weeks (this is in Etna, by the way, which is two hours north of Redding and still in California) and work off my debt from the Bahama's trip. Of course, during the month of November, I really started to look for full-time jobs while I waited for next year and trying again at BSSM. So in the mean time, I did go up and help them. I became Serena's "personal assistant" so to speak and helped her with organizing and paperwork since they just moved to a new house and have an amazing ministry to run. It was so much fun at the same time! I loved being able to come up and stay at their house in a beautiful area and help them out as they fed me (yay for feeding a poor college student! Woot!) and brought me joy. They are such a fun family and I was really bummed to have to go back to Redding.
So when I had to go back, I kept praying to God and asking if there was some way to move up to Etna and work up there somehow.....and save up for BSSM and move back down to Redding in the fall. But I couldn't think of a way to make it work so I just focused on job searching and trying to remain content in this time. And here is where the real lesson is learned: God is always mentioning in the Bible to be content always with everything. So I surrendered the idea of Etna and just really focused on the positives of Redding, like Bethel Church! After a few days, I was ok with this fact that I would get a job, work like crazy, and still be able to attend Bethel. When all of a sudden, I get a phone call and Serena has a proposition for me. She wanted me to move up to Etna, live with them, and work for them all year and they would pay for my whole tuition for school next year.......talk about a tear jerker! I was so overwhelmed with what God was doing and so thrilled that this would work out AND I wouldn't have to worry about leaving school next year. So of course, I took that opportunity! And here I am. Living in their house up in Etna and helping them out with their ministry as they feed and shelter me. Oh and if you are interested in their ministry, here are a few websites:
www.serenatravis.com
www.draketravis.com
http://www.gmcnx.org/
The last website is for their ministry and explains what they do!
I'm still thanking God to this day on how He worked everything out! So my suggestion: If you aren't happy with where you are at, surrender it to God and try to think of the positives and He'll come through for you in ALL situations! He's so amazing like that and He will never let you down. Just look at my life and see where He brought me! And it's funny because I kept getting prophetic words saying "This is going to be the most amazing year for you." And I can see that now!
Also, I did get the opportunity to go home for Christmas thanks to another amazing blessing from God! It was sooooooo nice to go and see friends and family in my home state of Minnesota! And if I didn't see any of you that are reading this and are offended, I'm sorry. It really was a short time that I was home and I was kept busy with family mostly! But I'm still happy I got to go home!
So now it looks like I'm living in Etna until about August and then moving back down to Redding to, once again, attend BSSM (which I'm super excited for). So feel free to call, email, or text (while in Minnesota I got a new phone and can text now! Hallelujah!), or even snail mail (just ask for the address) me. I miss you all and love you all dearly! And never forget, you are very much loved by God, and by me.
Love Always,
Jess
It's me again! I do exist still and haven't fallen off the face of the Earth. Instead of this being a blog, it's more of a time for me to recollect my thoughts and recall all the things that God has done in my life for the past few months....since I can't keep up with a weekly blog! LOL
So here's an update:
I'm no longer attending BSSM for this year. Some of you know that I did have to leave the school for a lack of finances which of course, was totally my fault. Honestly, I was going off of faith and I totally believed that God would provide it all like He promises. I was a fool though to sit back and wait for God to move when I should've put in some effort. Oh well. We learn from our mistakes, right? So this all went down in the end of October and it left me hurt and confused. I was really excited about the school and really looking forward to an amazing year there, but little did I know, God had other plans. :D
So, remember that family I mentioned in a previous post that took me to the Bahamas with them? Well, I got to go visit them a few more times throughout the month of November and was asked to go up for a couple of weeks (this is in Etna, by the way, which is two hours north of Redding and still in California) and work off my debt from the Bahama's trip. Of course, during the month of November, I really started to look for full-time jobs while I waited for next year and trying again at BSSM. So in the mean time, I did go up and help them. I became Serena's "personal assistant" so to speak and helped her with organizing and paperwork since they just moved to a new house and have an amazing ministry to run. It was so much fun at the same time! I loved being able to come up and stay at their house in a beautiful area and help them out as they fed me (yay for feeding a poor college student! Woot!) and brought me joy. They are such a fun family and I was really bummed to have to go back to Redding.
So when I had to go back, I kept praying to God and asking if there was some way to move up to Etna and work up there somehow.....and save up for BSSM and move back down to Redding in the fall. But I couldn't think of a way to make it work so I just focused on job searching and trying to remain content in this time. And here is where the real lesson is learned: God is always mentioning in the Bible to be content always with everything. So I surrendered the idea of Etna and just really focused on the positives of Redding, like Bethel Church! After a few days, I was ok with this fact that I would get a job, work like crazy, and still be able to attend Bethel. When all of a sudden, I get a phone call and Serena has a proposition for me. She wanted me to move up to Etna, live with them, and work for them all year and they would pay for my whole tuition for school next year.......talk about a tear jerker! I was so overwhelmed with what God was doing and so thrilled that this would work out AND I wouldn't have to worry about leaving school next year. So of course, I took that opportunity! And here I am. Living in their house up in Etna and helping them out with their ministry as they feed and shelter me. Oh and if you are interested in their ministry, here are a few websites:
www.serenatravis.com
www.draketravis.com
http://www.gmcnx.org/
The last website is for their ministry and explains what they do!
I'm still thanking God to this day on how He worked everything out! So my suggestion: If you aren't happy with where you are at, surrender it to God and try to think of the positives and He'll come through for you in ALL situations! He's so amazing like that and He will never let you down. Just look at my life and see where He brought me! And it's funny because I kept getting prophetic words saying "This is going to be the most amazing year for you." And I can see that now!
Also, I did get the opportunity to go home for Christmas thanks to another amazing blessing from God! It was sooooooo nice to go and see friends and family in my home state of Minnesota! And if I didn't see any of you that are reading this and are offended, I'm sorry. It really was a short time that I was home and I was kept busy with family mostly! But I'm still happy I got to go home!
So now it looks like I'm living in Etna until about August and then moving back down to Redding to, once again, attend BSSM (which I'm super excited for). So feel free to call, email, or text (while in Minnesota I got a new phone and can text now! Hallelujah!), or even snail mail (just ask for the address) me. I miss you all and love you all dearly! And never forget, you are very much loved by God, and by me.
Love Always,
Jess
Thursday, October 7, 2010
The Perfect Season
So I realize I haven't updated this in forever! Again, my dearest apologies to anyone who is actually keeping up with these!
Right now, if you weren't aware, I am in Redding, California (have moved over here the beginning of September) and have been attending Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry as a 1st Year student. Even though it was hard to say good-bye to my job at the theater, many friends that I hope to visit soon, the cool weather of Humboldt County, and the ocean, I must admit I am really enjoying myself here. Before even coming to this school, I have been filled with an anticipation that something great and amazing is going to happen for me. Still not sure what that looks like, but excited to see what happens! You're probably wondering why I'm going to a similiar school as the one I attended last year right? Well, let me tell you there are some similarities but many more differences. Last year was really a time of preparation for me in the fact that we had an intimate setting to be discipled and a perfect atmosphere to be encouraged to walk out in healing towards the heart issues. Last year was really a transformational year for me because God broke through a lot of hurt I was carrying in my life and really encouraged me with my future. Even though I feel I am far from ready for ministry, God is helping me one step at a time to grow closer to Him and to be able to do as He tells me!
When I reflect on last year, I realize that I had a lot of fear and bitterness that I've been holding on to ever since I left home in 2007. And for everyone back home in Minnesota, you have no idea how much I miss you all and I can't wait to see all of your beautiful faces again. You have supported me when I was in my crazy teenage years (some even longer) and have pushed me onward to my destiny and I just want to thank you all for your prayers, support, and love. I probably wouldn't be the person I am because of 1. God and 2. YOU. So hopefully, I will be able to somehow afford a ticket to Minnesota for Christmas....it's been too long since I've been away from my beloved state and my home!
So anyway, after going through the healing and transformation process, I felt I was ready to move on to the bigger school. (Originally I aimed to go to this school in the first place, but God had other plans and I am so thankful he sent me to BSSD first for breakthrough in the hard places of my life.) So now, here I am, in a class of 900 or so. Even though this school is MASSIVE, I still love it because everything is greater here (the teaching, the anointing, the covering, the ministry). So many amazing things are going on here and I can't even begin to tell you all the crazy stuff God has done! So many testimonies!
Even though this school isn't accredited (well, it sorta is for Simspon University), I feel like this is a perfect place for me. If you know me, I was never the type to be interested in college (to get an acutal degree). To me, all I wanted was more of God and to learn more about Him and I was going to do whatever necessary to chase Him! Even though I may have started chasing Him in the wrong places (some of you know what I'm talking about), He still got me here to the perfect school for me. Now my heart is definitely to pursue God always but even more, I find myself having a heart towards all people of this world. I definitely get excited when I think about the great Commision (I used to dread it-anything to deal with seeking out the lost or praying for strangers or what not). Now I'm super excited to go all over the world, tell testimonies of Jesus, and pray for miracles for many. And since this is a supernatural school, I am getting acquainted with the tools I need to go to the lost world and say "Here world, experience the love of Jesus!" You may say I'm crazy but at this point, I don't care! I love God so much and nothing can change that (not even man's opinion anymore like it used to). My heart is for the lost and I've been promised that I will do more than even Jesus Himself (like having signs, wonders, and miracles follow me and not by my power or will, but by the love relationship I have with God). Everything stems out of love and the intimacy I have with God (please do not take this as me controlling power or whatever, I'm saying all that I do comes out of love for Jesus!). I hope you all can understand this....if not, ask God about it! haha!
So besides that, I've been having some amazing people speak into my life like Bill Johnson, Kris Valloton, (I highly recommend any books they wrote) and many more. Sounds like we may have a chance to see John Paul Jackson or Bob Jones later this year! Definitely exciting!
All that to say that life is good my way, God is always good and amazing, Redding is finally cooling down, and that I'm also asking for support still in prayer and finances. Thanks to all who have kept me in their prayers! And thanks to all who have provided into my life! Please continue to pray for financial miracles (or donate if you like!!!) for me, since I do need to pay a little bit off of this school before I can graduate! And I may be able to go on a missions trip in March (still unsure which one it will be)!! Thanks a bunch everyone and I love you all like crazy!
If you'd like to email me:
jessica.royer07@gmail.com
God Bless!
*Jess*
Right now, if you weren't aware, I am in Redding, California (have moved over here the beginning of September) and have been attending Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry as a 1st Year student. Even though it was hard to say good-bye to my job at the theater, many friends that I hope to visit soon, the cool weather of Humboldt County, and the ocean, I must admit I am really enjoying myself here. Before even coming to this school, I have been filled with an anticipation that something great and amazing is going to happen for me. Still not sure what that looks like, but excited to see what happens! You're probably wondering why I'm going to a similiar school as the one I attended last year right? Well, let me tell you there are some similarities but many more differences. Last year was really a time of preparation for me in the fact that we had an intimate setting to be discipled and a perfect atmosphere to be encouraged to walk out in healing towards the heart issues. Last year was really a transformational year for me because God broke through a lot of hurt I was carrying in my life and really encouraged me with my future. Even though I feel I am far from ready for ministry, God is helping me one step at a time to grow closer to Him and to be able to do as He tells me!
When I reflect on last year, I realize that I had a lot of fear and bitterness that I've been holding on to ever since I left home in 2007. And for everyone back home in Minnesota, you have no idea how much I miss you all and I can't wait to see all of your beautiful faces again. You have supported me when I was in my crazy teenage years (some even longer) and have pushed me onward to my destiny and I just want to thank you all for your prayers, support, and love. I probably wouldn't be the person I am because of 1. God and 2. YOU. So hopefully, I will be able to somehow afford a ticket to Minnesota for Christmas....it's been too long since I've been away from my beloved state and my home!
So anyway, after going through the healing and transformation process, I felt I was ready to move on to the bigger school. (Originally I aimed to go to this school in the first place, but God had other plans and I am so thankful he sent me to BSSD first for breakthrough in the hard places of my life.) So now, here I am, in a class of 900 or so. Even though this school is MASSIVE, I still love it because everything is greater here (the teaching, the anointing, the covering, the ministry). So many amazing things are going on here and I can't even begin to tell you all the crazy stuff God has done! So many testimonies!
Even though this school isn't accredited (well, it sorta is for Simspon University), I feel like this is a perfect place for me. If you know me, I was never the type to be interested in college (to get an acutal degree). To me, all I wanted was more of God and to learn more about Him and I was going to do whatever necessary to chase Him! Even though I may have started chasing Him in the wrong places (some of you know what I'm talking about), He still got me here to the perfect school for me. Now my heart is definitely to pursue God always but even more, I find myself having a heart towards all people of this world. I definitely get excited when I think about the great Commision (I used to dread it-anything to deal with seeking out the lost or praying for strangers or what not). Now I'm super excited to go all over the world, tell testimonies of Jesus, and pray for miracles for many. And since this is a supernatural school, I am getting acquainted with the tools I need to go to the lost world and say "Here world, experience the love of Jesus!" You may say I'm crazy but at this point, I don't care! I love God so much and nothing can change that (not even man's opinion anymore like it used to). My heart is for the lost and I've been promised that I will do more than even Jesus Himself (like having signs, wonders, and miracles follow me and not by my power or will, but by the love relationship I have with God). Everything stems out of love and the intimacy I have with God (please do not take this as me controlling power or whatever, I'm saying all that I do comes out of love for Jesus!). I hope you all can understand this....if not, ask God about it! haha!
So besides that, I've been having some amazing people speak into my life like Bill Johnson, Kris Valloton, (I highly recommend any books they wrote) and many more. Sounds like we may have a chance to see John Paul Jackson or Bob Jones later this year! Definitely exciting!
All that to say that life is good my way, God is always good and amazing, Redding is finally cooling down, and that I'm also asking for support still in prayer and finances. Thanks to all who have kept me in their prayers! And thanks to all who have provided into my life! Please continue to pray for financial miracles (or donate if you like!!!) for me, since I do need to pay a little bit off of this school before I can graduate! And I may be able to go on a missions trip in March (still unsure which one it will be)!! Thanks a bunch everyone and I love you all like crazy!
If you'd like to email me:
jessica.royer07@gmail.com
God Bless!
*Jess*
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Crossroads of Decision
Hello all again!
It has been way too long since I've posted a blog. I realize this and I'm sorry.
To give a quick update since my Bahamas trip:
I had the most amazing opportunity to jump in with my roommates family and travel with them to Exuma and Nasau Bahamas for a missions trip. I know this family well because I've stayed with them for Thanksgiving and have visited them a few times throughout this year: AN AMAZING FAMILY AND I LOVE THEM SO MUCH! But anyway, Brooke and I got to spend 2 weeks out of the 3 weeks they were there helping them minister to the Bahamians. It was my first time I've been out of the country and the first time to use my passport. I must admit, the beauty of the islands there is far greater in person than any picture or video. I could not get enough of the amazing crystal-clear blue ocean and the sun. Coming from Humboldt county where the waves are ginormous and the water is a constant 40 degrees, this was a definite upgrade. I could see the cruise ships at their ports from the house we were staying at. This experience was so amazing. The five of us girls put together 3 Christian dance routines and were able to perform them a few times to draw in the kids....a way to break the ice and get their attention. We got to walk around and pray over the area and pray for people here and there. Nothing too outrageous happened and I was a little bummed about it. The more amazing stuff started happening after Brooke and I left. Oh and no, I didn't get to see a dolphin like I was hoping to......sad day!
Anyway, all that to say that it was an amazing experience and I hope to visit there again someday. So now on to May. We all graduated and recieved a certificate. But it was of course, bittersweet because then most everyone went home but I. I was able to stay with the Kooys at their house (who are amazing and I love them so much!!!) for the summer and was able to work at the movie theater. My summer wasn't anything too extravagant considering it has been the coldest summer they've had in a while here in Eureka. But on nice days, I would drive out to the beach and take in the wonderful ocean. Man, I'm going to miss that ocean.
So now we are caught up to the present. My last day at work was 2 days ago and I cried of course. I'm finding it really difficult to depart from this area while this whole summer I was anxious to go.....funny how that happens sometimes. I fell in love with all the amazing people here. I hate good-byes.....
So you're probably wondering what I'm up to, right? Well, I have applied and been accepted to go to First Year at Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry in Redding, California (about 3 hours from here). This was the school I tried to go to in the first place but am sooo grateful I got to attend Bethel School of Supernatural Discipleship first.....the smaller atmosphere helped to grow in so many ways. So I was excited all summer and wanted to hurry up and get over there but now that the time is close (first day is the 14th), I'm honestly scared. Here's the situation: It sounds like me and a few friends have an apartment but it's not available for the first week of school so we all have to stay at different places (meaning I'll have to keep my car completely packed for a long time and live out of a suitcase). Then, the whole time I was working this summer was to pay off BSSD and then save up for BSSM. However I made the mistake of going to a cheap mechanic who ended up costing me $1,000 to replace my front cvg joints, brakes, pretty much everything. So the money I could save up ended up going to mechanics, schools, etc. And now I'm left with enough money for gas to get to BSSM and for the deposit on the apartment for the first month. Now, I was working a full 30 hours per week so I wasn't sitting on my butt all summer. It just so happens that money sometimes has to go to priorities first. LAME. I do plan on applying for jobs as soon as we get moved in and settled in our new apartment in Redding. So that will probably take care of rent.
Now the final thing that's freaking me out (and I shouldn't let it freak me out) is the tuition. I have to have $1,800 on the first day of school (the 14th) and I have nothing. I am holding to the promise that God will provide and that He is Jehovah Jirah (The God who Provides) because He has provided for me before throughout my life. He is the ultimate miracle-worker and I know I can trust Him with something as small as my financial circumstances.....that doesn't mean I'm not afraid. There's always going to be fear when stepping in to a new area. A fear of falling or getting lost or hurt. But normally, take a step of faith can be a little scary sometimes......I'm speaking for myself (it happens everytime I'm going to move or do something new). And then the waves of questioning appear causing you to ask if this is the right thing to do or if this is where I'm meant to be. But then, what if there's something better? I don't know about you guys but I always go through this when "moving on."
Either way, I trust God. He'll give me direction when I can't see the path. If all else fails with BSSM, He promises me He always has something better (and only the best in mind). So do keep praying for me if you already have been. I thank you all for being my friends and for supporting me. You all are amazing and I love you all dearly. And I will try to give you an update on what happens concerning this fall! God Bless!
-Jess-
It has been way too long since I've posted a blog. I realize this and I'm sorry.
To give a quick update since my Bahamas trip:
I had the most amazing opportunity to jump in with my roommates family and travel with them to Exuma and Nasau Bahamas for a missions trip. I know this family well because I've stayed with them for Thanksgiving and have visited them a few times throughout this year: AN AMAZING FAMILY AND I LOVE THEM SO MUCH! But anyway, Brooke and I got to spend 2 weeks out of the 3 weeks they were there helping them minister to the Bahamians. It was my first time I've been out of the country and the first time to use my passport. I must admit, the beauty of the islands there is far greater in person than any picture or video. I could not get enough of the amazing crystal-clear blue ocean and the sun. Coming from Humboldt county where the waves are ginormous and the water is a constant 40 degrees, this was a definite upgrade. I could see the cruise ships at their ports from the house we were staying at. This experience was so amazing. The five of us girls put together 3 Christian dance routines and were able to perform them a few times to draw in the kids....a way to break the ice and get their attention. We got to walk around and pray over the area and pray for people here and there. Nothing too outrageous happened and I was a little bummed about it. The more amazing stuff started happening after Brooke and I left. Oh and no, I didn't get to see a dolphin like I was hoping to......sad day!
Anyway, all that to say that it was an amazing experience and I hope to visit there again someday. So now on to May. We all graduated and recieved a certificate. But it was of course, bittersweet because then most everyone went home but I. I was able to stay with the Kooys at their house (who are amazing and I love them so much!!!) for the summer and was able to work at the movie theater. My summer wasn't anything too extravagant considering it has been the coldest summer they've had in a while here in Eureka. But on nice days, I would drive out to the beach and take in the wonderful ocean. Man, I'm going to miss that ocean.
So now we are caught up to the present. My last day at work was 2 days ago and I cried of course. I'm finding it really difficult to depart from this area while this whole summer I was anxious to go.....funny how that happens sometimes. I fell in love with all the amazing people here. I hate good-byes.....
So you're probably wondering what I'm up to, right? Well, I have applied and been accepted to go to First Year at Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry in Redding, California (about 3 hours from here). This was the school I tried to go to in the first place but am sooo grateful I got to attend Bethel School of Supernatural Discipleship first.....the smaller atmosphere helped to grow in so many ways. So I was excited all summer and wanted to hurry up and get over there but now that the time is close (first day is the 14th), I'm honestly scared. Here's the situation: It sounds like me and a few friends have an apartment but it's not available for the first week of school so we all have to stay at different places (meaning I'll have to keep my car completely packed for a long time and live out of a suitcase). Then, the whole time I was working this summer was to pay off BSSD and then save up for BSSM. However I made the mistake of going to a cheap mechanic who ended up costing me $1,000 to replace my front cvg joints, brakes, pretty much everything. So the money I could save up ended up going to mechanics, schools, etc. And now I'm left with enough money for gas to get to BSSM and for the deposit on the apartment for the first month. Now, I was working a full 30 hours per week so I wasn't sitting on my butt all summer. It just so happens that money sometimes has to go to priorities first. LAME. I do plan on applying for jobs as soon as we get moved in and settled in our new apartment in Redding. So that will probably take care of rent.
Now the final thing that's freaking me out (and I shouldn't let it freak me out) is the tuition. I have to have $1,800 on the first day of school (the 14th) and I have nothing. I am holding to the promise that God will provide and that He is Jehovah Jirah (The God who Provides) because He has provided for me before throughout my life. He is the ultimate miracle-worker and I know I can trust Him with something as small as my financial circumstances.....that doesn't mean I'm not afraid. There's always going to be fear when stepping in to a new area. A fear of falling or getting lost or hurt. But normally, take a step of faith can be a little scary sometimes......I'm speaking for myself (it happens everytime I'm going to move or do something new). And then the waves of questioning appear causing you to ask if this is the right thing to do or if this is where I'm meant to be. But then, what if there's something better? I don't know about you guys but I always go through this when "moving on."
Either way, I trust God. He'll give me direction when I can't see the path. If all else fails with BSSM, He promises me He always has something better (and only the best in mind). So do keep praying for me if you already have been. I thank you all for being my friends and for supporting me. You all are amazing and I love you all dearly. And I will try to give you an update on what happens concerning this fall! God Bless!
-Jess-
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