Choosing contentment

"I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot. In any an all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content--whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me" Philippians 4:11-13

The past couple of days have stretched me in ways that I never anticipated. Before I came, I was told time and time again to be flexible while I was in Kenya, to put aside all expectations and be ready for whatever the Lord had in store for my time here. As I prayed and prepared for this trip, I reflected on how MY plans get in the way of me allowing the Lord to accomplish His plan. Many are my plans, but regardless of how many plans I make, it is the my Creator who directs my steps.

A couple of days ago, I started feeling slightly sick but I didn't think much of it. However, yesterday morning I woke up in a worse state. I was running a fever, experiencing nausea, my joints ached, and other symptoms. The Freeland's decided to take me to the doctor. As I was there, the Kenyan doctor was far too smiley for my liking. I could tell he was enjoying treating a Mzungu and I wanted to slap him for it. It's funny how easily and quickly our hearts can change when circumstances are less than ideal. They did blood work and results said that I had malaria and parasites. While waiting for these results, doubt and fear began to creep in. "Why am I here? I just want to go home." I felt at war with myself, because part of me was completely discouraged and fearful, but another part of me knew that the Lord was in control and that He knew all along that this would happen. I knew that I was called to be in Kenya, because I had seen how great the need was and how few the workers were. I was experiencing firsthand the flesh and spirit at war within me. As I was crying and pitying myself, I decided to choose to believe in God's goodness and sovereignty. I simply said Jesus' name over and over again and finally felt at peace within myself. "I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know both how to have a little, and I know how to have a lot. In any an all circumstances I have learned the secret of being content--whether well fed or hungry, whether in abundance or in need. I am able to do all things through Him who strengthens me" Philippians 4:11-13 Now, have I learned to be content in every circumstance and in all things? No, not quite. But I am learning, and that is a start. Praise God.

In short, the doctor told me that I have malaria and parasites. But this is an easy fix. I got a malaria treatment pill and took a "de-wormeing" pill. Malaria is an infection that resides in the joints, that is why I have been so sore. But this morning, I woke up feeling SO much better. The Lord's healing was quick! However, today I am still resting and am expecting a full recovery shortly.

Thank you for all of your prayers and support in my trip. It means so much.

I will hopefully be back in full speed soon and be able to update you all shortly.

In Christ,

Kayla