We officially began our travels on Thursday evening at 11:00. It was later than we planned but the first few days have gone very well. Thank you so much for all your prayers and encouragement! We will be traveling from now until mid December.
As we travel there may be some minor interruptions with internet connection, but everything with the ministry should look about the same. I have started a blog so I (and the rest of my family) can write about the things we learn and the people we meet. The blog will also contain the daily devotional messages. I still have many things to learn about how to format a blog site but please follow us at:
http://www.gdwm-blog.org
Many of you know that I have felt the pull to travel for several years, but that God’s timing was for us to wait. About a year ago the pull was becoming more clear so I began talking with a few people to receive their counsel. One individual gave me advice I will never forget. He said, “Steve, do you think the lifestyle of travel is normal or abnormal?” I had to reply that it was probably abnormal. He then said, “Don’t you think you have an obligation to teach your children how to live normal?” I remained respectful, but inside I was screaming, NO!!
Romans 12:2
“Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God’s will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will.”
Be careful about the counsel you receive. A different translation of this same verse says “Do not let the world squeeze you into its mold.” People mean well, but even very Godly individuals often live by a different set of priorities and can be part of the squeezing process. God has not called us to a standard which is set by the world system. He has called us into a radical relationship of love and trust; a relationship which looks nothing like the mold of this world.
Conforming to the to the “normal” pattern of this world is diluting our faith and destroying the church. I will try to write more about this tomorrow, but for now let’s think about the general call to follow Christ. Let’s begin to ask the questions of what this really means. What does this mean for us as individuals, for our families, and for the church? Let’s diligently seek His counsel and resolve to never conform.
Have a Christ Centered Day!
Steve Troxel
God’s Daily Word Ministries
>Good luck Steve and i do beleive this is waht OUR Lord is calling you to do. My prayers go out to you and your family. Charles Rose
>Many thoughts are always provoked by your loving devotionals a heart felt and sincere thanks for them.
We are to be CONFORMED to the very image of our Lord and Savior Jesus the Annointed One.
As your itenerate preaching continues to grow in your lives think on our example and standard. Jesus for three years in and around Jerusalem. Paul for three years at Corinth, Ephesus, Rome. Ever widening circles or influence seems to be the pattern. Peter as well.
Our call of which we are sure has one goal. The raising of children well that presents its own difficulties.
May the God of peace grant His Holy Spirit in abundance on you and yours as you continue to grow in His grace.
glh
>I will be praying for you and your family during your time of travels….always!
>Psalm 91:11 For he will order his angels to protect you wherever you go.