Brave

  This past month, I have been on my oncology rotation. 

 I have learned so much on this rotation, but I've been amazed at how much God is at work.

 I am honestly in awe of his presence.

 God comes up in conversation often in the oncology world.

There are so many miracles, and so much gratitude to God's faithfulness. 

There is hope. 

 We tend to fear oncology, because so many people picture dying.

But, I see people living.

 A patient who is currently undergoing radiation has a theme song.

 Her personality and sweet smile reminds me this is why I do this.

 I feel like my passion to work with oncology patients is continuing to grow.

 The more time I spend in the oncology world, the more I want to be apart of it.

  

My inspiration:

Glen A. Johnson

Daddy's girl

 I still to this day remember when...

 I would hide behind a wall in the kitchen right before supper and the moment my dad opened the door,

I would yell "BOO!"

I probably did this just about everyday, but it was always so comforting to be in my father's embrace.

My time spent with him was limited, but the vivid memory provides me with a picture of how much my heavenly father loves me.

Trust

 This morning, at church a man handed me this heart. 

 He told me God wanted me to have it and to trust him.

 After a week of being emotionally and physically drained, I see why God wanted to remind me to trust him. 

 Yesterday, I was reading Philippians 4: 12-13

 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do everything through him who gives me strength. 

It was such a great reminder that I can be content despite my circumstances and that God is helping me get through them. The secret is trusting and placing your faith in what you do not see at the moment. The things that have yet to unravel. The truth is I am weak and inadequate without him. Through him, I have strength to overcome my circumstances.

 My internship is emotionally and physically draining, yes that is a fact. 

 But, the end result is worth all of it. 

 God is reminding me that he has a plan and to trust him. 

 Whatever you are facing and struggling with, remember God is with you. He is close to you. Just reach your hand out and he will guide you through.

Christian Dating

What are you searching for in a potential mate?

When you were younger did you write down a list of attributes?

How specific did you get?  

Blonde hair, blue eyes, athletic, tall. 

I think my prince charming was my Ken doll. 

 Our society believes we can pick and choose what we get in our mates.

 When you date in society, boundaries often do not exist. 

Relationships are formed and demolished quickly.

Why do we always seek these unfulfilling relationships?

We are not willing to wait for God's timing. 

We often do not talk about God's desire for dating and allow society to shape our perspective.

** Based on my experiences and revelations that God has revealed to me:

Relationships are challenging.

And when they end, you face heart break.

God does not want us face heart break over and over again.

 He wants us to be able to give our hearts intact to our mates.

 During my time in Korea, I discovered God's design for dating.  

 I was jumping into relationships and not pausing to listen to God.  

 God wants us to pursue his design for dating. 

How?

1. Prayer- actively communicating with God about relationships. 

Seeking direction and discernment 

Guarding your heart

 Waiting on God's timing

 It is so easy to jump into relationships and express feelings before receiving clarity from God.

We forget that emotions change and are not constant. 

Rushing into relationships is often related to why so many marriages end in divorce. 

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2.  Mentors- People who are older and wiser.

These people are crucial to assistance in searching for clarity. 

They always provide support, prayers and use scripture to assist you.

3. Setting Boundaries- we all have weaknesses and struggles. 

Examples: Creating a curfew for dates.

Limiting how often you see each other. 

It is easy to start dating someone and that person consumes your life.

Balancing the person you are dating with your friends is important. 

4. Accountability partners

 Friends who can help assist in keeping you accountable during your relationship.

 Assist with keeping the relationship christ centered. 

 they are available to witness the relationship as it progresses

 Pray before you act and seek counsel.

 Be clear about your intentions.

Finding your mate is a journey not a race.

Thanks for reading my blog!
Stay tuned for things I'm discovering as I walk with the Lord.
-Courtney