I enjoy writing in a journal. I’ve been doing it since I was 12 years old. I used to love to write to God, write about what I’m going through, the events in my life, the things God would speak to me and everything else in-between. However, earlier this year I had a case of writer’s block, and there were months where I couldn’t write in my journal.
Part of me was tired of writing about the day-to-day and using my journal as a therapist to process my emotions. It got to a point when I didn’t think it was helping me become closer to God; instead, it was affirming a habit of complaining and staying focused on the issues going on in my life.
I didn’t know how to write any other way, so I stopped writing altogether.
On June 15th, something changed in my heart. God had done such wonders in the week prior and in that day where I felt it was imperative to document it. Except for this time, all I wrote was: What God Has Done.
Ever since then, whenever I journal, this is all I write – testimonies and praises of the one true living God.
I have a new love for writing in my journal.
Recently, I had a birthday party/mission sharing party at my house. I shared with family and friends what God did on this last trip to Brazil. One of my Brazilian friends was there (I’m going to call her Abby). She is the same one I stayed with for a week and where we ministered to prostitutes, spent time with girls rescued from the streets, and I spoke at her church… read the post here! She shared with me what God did after I left and I want to share with you. I want to share with you what God has done since my time in Brazil.
What God Has Done:
- Provided a way for the couple, the same ones who are ministering to the prostitutes in Abby’s city, to have a home to shelter the girls and women on the streets. They are now able to provide shelter for these women and a safe place for them!
Through this home, brought one of the girls (the first girl Abby and I prayed with!) to this SAFE place and she is no longer in prostitution but is currently undergoing counseling. God has given this girl courage to leave and go to a place of healing. She has hope for her future.- Healed a woman Abby and I prayed for at the hospital. She was dying of cancer and has had so many people praying for her. She’s been living at the hospital for two years with her 4-year old son and husband. A few weeks ago, Abby received news that God healed the woman completely!
- Brought a housemate to me who will stay at my place while I am away in Brazil. She is a family friend, who was recently diagnosed with cancer and wants a place to rest, heal and have time with God. Fun fact: she is the one who held me first when I came into the world because my mama was squeezing my grandma’s hand. 🙂 I have been praying and asking God for someone to stay here while I’m gone, and it has ended up being a woman who is practically family. I love this woman; she’s like a second grandma and God gave us this opportunity to be a blessing to each other. She will be healed!
- Gave me time to begin recording some of my instrumental music at a studio, while I’m here in the States. It’s music God has given to me since I was a teenager and God has always told me to share it with others. Last Christmas my mom and step-dad gave me a gift certificate for studio time, but I haven’t had time until now to begin. It’s exciting! I hope to share some of the music here.
My journal has more testimonies of what God has done, but these are some extra beautiful ones that I thought you would enjoy hearing. I’m here for another 20 days then it’s back to Brazil! I have had a sweet time at home with my friends and family, but I’m not taking it for granted. I know this time at home with these beautiful people are a gracious gift from God. I’m thankful for every minute.
Thank you for reading my stories and praying with me on this journey. I am so excited for all that God does every day. I’ll be sure to share more stories as I go.
Till the next adventure,
Katya
