Have you ever stared your biggest fear in the eye? I mean face to face with nothing to protect you? Well I never knew I had such a fear of Rhinos but I found out that it is a big fear of mine. I went on a safari and was enjoying God’s creation, admiring the beauty of his creatures when suddenly our driver says “Get out of the truck, Walk with me…he said if the Rhino charges DO NOT RUN, I will tell you what to do from there.” I soon realized how unsafe this was. Within a few short minutes I was five feet from a mother rhino, the baby was by her side, she was not happy we were there. I prayed more in that moment than I think I have in a long time. I was shaking so bad I almost dropped my camera, as I looked at our guide I could tell he was uneasy. The mother threw her foot back to warn us. I took it as a direct sign from God to get out of there. I started to move and heard a voice say “Heather if you move it will harm us all” it was one of the men on the drive, it didn’t calm my spirit any to know he was terrified as well.
I thought it was a good analogy of the body, if I move without my guide (God) telling me it is safe, it
affects not only myself but all those around me. God has been my guide this entire journey and I know the scary times are the times he ask me to wait and be still. The very times I feel I am alone and scared he ask me to trust in him… “Do not run I will tell you what to do from there” I was reading in Psalm yesterday and the verse that stood out to me was “Be still in the presence of the Lord; and wait patient for him to act”
I am still in the waiting process as far as getting to Swaziland but God has been so good. I am living in a wonderful community with people of like mind and spirit. The place I am living is called Alabonza it is a sending out place for missionaries. I will stay here in South Africa for a few months and then we will see what God has. Please continue to pray, it goes against my personality to wait and see what God has. I like plans, but God has brought me to a place where I know he has my best inertest in mind and he is working even when I can’t see the larger picture. I am so glad I am here. I love and miss you guys. Thank you for your continued prayers, and encouragement!
Wow! Awesome Heather! I’m glad your safe after reading that but even more so that God continues to reveal Himself (and His wisdom) to you so faithfully! You guys are in my prayers as all ways.
Your brother in Christ,
Shannon
What an amazing testimony! I am glad to hear of your confidence and trust in what God is doing and will do in your life while you are there. Continue to “Be still” and listen. God is so pleased with you! I am praying for your safety and your opportunities to share Christ with those you encounter.
I think that you should grab that rhino by the horn and wrestle it. I think ya’ll could have taken it.
We are still praying for you and Marissa daily. We are proud of you.
Love,
The Goins family
WOW! that would be scary but sure liked your analogy. If we run ahead of God we will be more scared. He knows what is best for us and many times He tells us to be patient and wait on Him. Be ready to accept what Jesus has planned for you. You are living a real dream and God is always pleased when you put Him above a life that most young folks choose, so He will lead the way if you wait on HIm.
Love and Prayers always,
Grandma White (Lynn’s Mother)
Heather,
I could not say that any better. That is exactly how i felt of why i could not leave from here that this moment. I didnt feel peace i could not go if God was not before me to catch me. I stayed and i was vital that i was with my family during this time. Praise God- He is all knowing. Now I am feeling a peace that I will make a move soon! God Bless you guys! I have been praying for ya’ll like crazy! Love you!
To Heather of Africa,
Wow! What another great set of photos! You’ll do almost anything for a good shot. I am real glad that the mother rhino didn’t mind you taking her picture. She could probably see that you only wanted a picture of her cute little one. You’ve always been drawn to the little ones. I-we are very glad that you made it safe, though you probably were not so sure at the moment. Can I use some of your photos as models to paint from? Thanks for keeping us informed of your adventures and how our Father is taking care of you. With love and prayer, Dad & Lynne
To Heather of Africa,
Wow! What another great set of photos! You’ll do almost anything for a good shot. I am real glad that the mother rhino didn’t mind you taking her picture. She could probably see that you only wanted a picture of her cute little one. You’ve always been drawn to the little ones. I-we are very glad that you made it safe, though you probably were not so sure at the moment. Can I use some of your photos as models to paint from? Thanks for keeping us informed of your adventures and how our Father is taking care of you. With love and prayer, Dad & Lynne
Our precious Heather,
Your dad is printing and sending us your blogs in the mail with the photos. We pray for you and for your protection every day and hope that you will arrive home safely. I, grand ma, am doing much better. Thank you for your prayers.
We love you dearly. Grand Ma & Grand Pa