Who Knew?

 

What have you tried or found yourself doing that in your younger years, you never imagined? 

My mom learned to drink coffee with her grandpa when she was a kid. Her first cup was mostly milk and a small bit of coffee. Each time, the amount of milk was less and the amount of coffee increased. Growing up, my mom liked her coffee black. 

When I was a kid, I would slip things into her coffee, like lemon juice, as I was convinced coffee was not good for her. And, I was an immature kid (are their mature kids?!) who thought it was funny when she would unknowingly, take a sip and say, "Karen Marie Ramse!" I knew I was in trouble when she would say my full name! She would proceed to dump out her coffee and get another cup. Obviously, my tactic did not work! 

Lately, I have been experimenting with coffee, not dark, but adding some fun flavors. First I made a carmel macchiato with coconut sugar and coconut milk. This fall, I've made a pumpkin spice blend a few times with real pumpkin, maple syrup, coconut milk, almond milk, and pumpkin pie spice. It was good! The first time, I thought it was too sweet, so I halved the amount of maple syrup for the second batch and it was better. I imagine my mom would be astonished if she knew! 

I was very timid and shy when I was a kid and did not speak up in class. I remember the first time I confidently shared my thoughts in a class at Mount Marty in Watertown. I was astonished at myself in the moment! 

Over the years, I never imagined that I would one day put in the efforts to achieve my teaching license, go to the mission field to teach math, science, and art to middle school students! I never imagined that I could drive on small narrow roads in a foreign country and enjoy it! I never imagined that I could stand in front of an audience and share my heart and passion for missionary kids at Black Forest Academy. My 7th grade teacher, once upon a time, invited me ot join the debate team and I responded with a "no." I think she was trying to pull me out of my shell. What she was not able to do, God managed to do! Side note: I still like to pull my shell over at times, curling up with a good book or puzzle. :)

Philippians 4:13

I can do all things through him who strengthens me.

Just before this verse, Paul shared that he rejoices that the philippian church had concern for him. He explains that he has learned to be content whether he has plenty or hungry. In all circumstances, whether in abundance or need, he has learned the secret. The secret being that he can do what God asks of him and God will give him the strength to carry out the task. Even if the burden seems to big to handle, God will provide the strength that Paul would need to push through and endure. 

God has been so good to me as he gave me tasks to accomplish and the strength to handle them. As I grew in maturity and responsibility, he has given me greater and bigger tasks. This is important! I can do nothing in my own strength! He provides all that I need to do what he has set for me to do! All glory goes to Him! 

I also love Hebrews 12: 1-2

Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him enduring the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.

As I keep my gaze fixed on Christ, He leads me step by step through this life with confidence and endurance. Because of Christ's death and resurrection, He has conquered sin! I can lay aside every weight and sin that so easily entagles, fix my gaze on Him and keep moving in His direction. I immensily grateful for what He has done for me on the cross and continues to do for me everyday as His Spirit guides, convicts, and instructs me. To God be all the glory! 

Who knows what else I will end up doing in the future that I never imagined I would do?! ;)

Above photo credit goes to Danielle Walker and here is her recipe for healthy pumpkin spice latte coffee if you would like to make it yourself!