Stories

ABIDING IN HIM 

I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.
(John 15:5 ESV)

Little did I know when the Lord led me to the theme “Abide” last summer just how important it would be for this school year– both for the mission trip and for me personally. I was excited by what I learned last summer from being in the DR and through reading the book Helping Without Hurting. I was grateful to see my growth as a leader and to, for the first time, try something new with how I trained the team each month leading up to the trip. I sensed that God would use this shift in focus to deepen both the team and the trip, and I eagerly anticipated how He would work. Besides, seeing as this was the fifth mission trip to the DR that I have led, I thought that it would be easy. We simply needed to focus on the heart of the mission, and all would be well.

Yeah, no.

From beginning to end, this year was full of frustrations and discouragements in trying to prepare for the trip. Whereas in the past the planning details have always gone smoothly overall, this year brought one “distraction” after another and another… culminating with losing all of the girls who had planned on going on this trip, leaving us with only four guys. In the past, our teams have averaged around 15 participants. What was going on?

“Laura, do you trust Me?”     

To be honest, I struggled to believe that this trip, my last with OCS, would be the trip I had dreamed would mark the end of my career in education. Some even questioned whether or not this trip should continue. 

But God.

As I have repeated many times since the trip began, He saw the end from the beginning and simply asked me to hold on to my Deep Hope: “Embrace the process and trust God in it.” And now I cannot imagine having missed this trip with this team. God was in every single detail– all along. On the morning of our first full day, the Lord was already answering some of my deepest prayers leading into the trip. By that afternoon, He was then giving answers to things that I had not even prayed for. And before the trip was even over, He had fully shown how mindful He is of us. I had carried abundant evidence of God's faithfulness in my life with me to the Dominican, but the way He revealed His goodness during this trip has left me overwhelmed and in complete awe of Him.                                          

“FIRST THINGS FIRST”  

One of the most important aspects of these mission trips has been how we start each day. Before breakfast, each person spends around 30 minutes in a time of pre-reflection that prepares each heart for the day’s devotional. After breakfast, for the first time in five mission trips, instead of dividing into separate groups, this year our team remained gathered around the table, joined by Dominican friends, as we opened God's Word together and dug into this year's theme. With “Abide” being the theme, the devotionals were all centered around the Fruit of the Spirit. However, the first day started with “Walk in step with the Spirit” (from Galatians 5:16 & 25), a phrase that then became the thread that ran throughout each day. But students were not only encouraged to see how the notion of “walking in step” allowed them to better see and exercise the Fruit; they were also challenged to “walk in step” with each activity and interaction beyond that table. The eager anticipation that I felt when thinking about the trip at the beginning of the year already gave way to abundant joy on the first morning, as we took our time and spent 1½ hours talking about walking in step with His Spirit. It was beautiful. 
 

WALKING IN STEP IN COMMUNITY  

With the distinctive nature of our team this year, Partners in Christ wanted to intentionally explore what future trips might look like with other schools, churches, and organizations. The goal every year has been to focus on our relationship with the Lord and with others, instead of merely on projects, but this year– thanks to the vision of PIC’s executive director, Sondra Dellaripa– we all began to see the beauty in bringing down a small group of young men. Because of the uniqueness of this group, after our morning team devotional, I went to work on tasks for the ministry that utilized my experience in education, while the guys headed to the church. There, they spent another 1 - 1½ hours with different pillars of the community, and because it was a group of only men, they could then be more transparent and go deeper with one another. As they worked through Patrick Morley's How God Makes Men, they explored how God shapes a man's character through surrender, hardship, and faithful obedience– themes that seemed remarkably fitting for this team. Ironically, what initially felt like one of the greatest disappointments in preparing for the trip became one of God's sweetest gifts. Had this year's team looked like every previous team, this opportunity simply would not have existed.
 

WALKING IN STEP IN SERVICE 

While the goal of the trip was to deepen our relationships with one another and with the Lord, part of the “rhythm” for this team– and the vision for future teams– was to learn what it means to walk in step with the Spirit in the ordinary rhythms of daily life: spend the entire morning centered on God’s Word and community, eat lunch together, enjoy the practice of siesta, and then help with whatever tasks were needed on the grounds of the school and of the church. This year the focus was mainly on scraping the walls surrounding the basketball court so that they could be primed and repainted, and then painting the walls of the church in preparation for graduation ceremonies (and then cleaning up the mess we had made– ha!). But our good friend, Mayki (pictured below), taught us the value of working hard while playing hard, as he was always singing and taking dance breaks, but he probably worked harder than all of us combined. So even in the midst of scraping, painting, and serving, we were continually reminded that when we are learning to walk in step with the Spirit, even ordinary work becomes worship.

WALKING IN STEP IN WORSHIP   

In addition to our devotional times, coming together as a community in worship is one of the more important aspects of being on mission. Due to the length and timing of our trip, we have the opportunity to worship together on Wednesday night, Saturday night, and Sunday morning. Wednesday night has always been impactful to me, because the service starts with openly sharing prayer requests and praise reports, and then the congregation breaks into small groups to pray for as long as necessary. The night then ends with a sermon. Saturday evenings are devoted to the youth group, which always includes worship and a message as well. However, this year they also had us participate in a variety of competitive games to test our Bible knowledge (it may have triggered a PTSD response from my childhood experiences– lol). One such game was called “Flour Wars,” where if you didn’t respond to the question before your opponent did, you had to faceplant into a plate of flour. Although these games did produce a bit of anxiety, they became an unexpected opportunity to walk in step with the Spirit by laying aside.   self-consciousness, embracing humility, and entering wholeheartedly into the joy of the community around us. One of the things I love most about this ministry is that worship is never confined to music. As we spent time praying, singing, studying Scripture, serving, and even laughing together, we were continually reminded that every part of life can become an act of worship when it is offered to the Lord.

 

WALKING IN STEP IN LOVE  

One of the most memorable parts of every trip is, without a doubt, the kids. I always tell our teams, “Prepare to be loved on like you have never experienced in your life”– and these Dominican children never disappoint. The endless piggy-back rides have become a staple of each trip; however, this year– as seemed fitting for this unique team– brought new games, like “steal the hat” and “raise the bench.” While these children face temptations and distractions just like children in the U.S., they continue to remind us that joy is often found not in having more, but in wholeheartedly embracing what is right in front of them. So every year, they remind me that one of God's greatest teachers is a child. The more I watch them demonstrate love, joy, peace– and all the rest of the Fruit– the more convinced I become that we adults learn to walk in step by doing as they do. They receive love. They give love. They trust easily. They forgive quickly. They delight freely. They don't worry about looking foolish. Jesus said, "Unless you become like little children" for a reason, and the older I get, the more my heart longs for that level of childlike innocence.          

WALKING IN STEP IN UNITY  

As I already mentioned, God saw the end from the beginning, and I cannot imagine 
having missed this trip with these specific people. The very day that we arrived, a couple 
of the Dominicans that I am close to, as well as Sondra, each commented separately on
how there was a peace about me that was undeniably evident. That’s when I knew it was
real– His fruit had taken genuine root in my life. I want to give all the glory to God, but I also
want to honor this team. From the moment they trickled into the airport at 2:45am on June 7th until the end, they exhibited the Fruit of the Spirit. And as soon as we stepped foot on familiar soil in Juan Tomás, I saw why it had to be this team and this way. It brought peace and calm, but also joy and lightheartedness. Not until I stepped foot in the Dominican again did I fully realize just how much my soul was craving the release I felt at the end of the night on the last day of school. I realized the joy of letting go and just enjoying life for what it is– a beautiful adventure that the Lord graciously gives to us. With a small team, I hadn’t fully envisioned how we would do everything together: study, play, eat, serve, dance, worship, explore, laugh (a lot!), sing, share… and BEHOLD. God is so good, and He is so mindful of us. Every detail of our lives is being orchestrated by a Perfect Father who loves us and takes us to extraordinary places. We may not always understand where He is leading, but that’s okay.   Part of “walking in step” is understanding that with the gentle, meticulous care of the Good Shepherd, we don’t always have to trust our circumstances.

We trust Him.

View our shared photo album HERE 
*Team pictures were taken by our 
Dominican friend, Dharling Cruz

For 30 years, the Auburn Hills Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Detroit Pistons, has recognized outstanding students and the educators who have helped shape their journeys through the Excellence in Education Awards.

This special program celebrates the connection between education, business, and community while honoring students whose character, growth, service, and perseverance exemplify excellence. Each participating school selects students who have made a significant impact and demonstrated personal growth and achievement throughout their school careers.

Oakland Christian is proud to announce this year's recipients:

5th Grade: Jace Miracle & Maestra Monica Silia-Benitez
8th Grade: Jasper Forst & Mr. Nick Kaczanowski
12th Grade: Ben Diemer & Mr. Greg Favaro

These students have distinguished themselves through their character, leadership, and contributions both inside and outside the classroom. As part of the program, each student was invited to recognize a teacher who has made a lasting impact on their educational journey.

Congratulations to Jace, Jasper, Ben, Maestra Silia-Benitez, Mr. Kaczanowski, and Mr. Favaro on this well-deserved honor. We are grateful for the way they represent our school community and for the relationships that make Oakland Christian such a special place.

Awards are always special, but what makes this event unique is the opportunity for students to publicly thank a teacher who has made a difference in their lives. Seeing those relationships celebrated is one of the highlights of the evening.

VALIANT

For several years I had the history of Gideon on my mind as something that I would like to study more deeply, keeping in mind that what I study I often end up leading in a Bible study at some point. At the end of the 2024 school year, I felt that God was laying on my heart “now is the time”-- and so Gideon: Your Weakness. God’s Strength by Priscilla Shirer arrived at our doorstep two days before we left for the Dominican. As I held the book in my hands, looked at that title on the cover, and then read the back, I knew that this message was timely: “[Gideon’s] epic victory actually tells of one man’s struggle with his own weakness—and the One True God who transformed it into triumph.” Ever since COVID, I have been more purposeful, and therefore intentionally vocal, about combating the lies told within the explosion of mental health issues. As followers of Christ, we are not to walk in brokenness; we are meant to walk in victory.

A key truth from Gideon’s life, as with many people in the Bible, is that God “calls things that are not as though they were” (Romans 4:17). However, while this reality rocked my world many years prior to COVID-- during a powerful “living room encounter” with the Lord in 2012-- truth be told, it took another decade for me to start boldly walking out what He showed me then… and, frankly, I am still having to learn that God sees us not as we see ourselves. But that is the epitome of grace, and therefore what is at the heart of “Valiant” and at the center of every Bible Study that I taught and every devotional that I wrote this year. I could not let go of one single, but crucial, aspect of Gideon’s story: The Lord, in the form of an angel, called Gideon “Valiant Warrior” while he was hiding from the enemy. God saw to it that I would be called Laura-- “Victorious One”-- decades before I even caught a glimpse of what that would mean. And shortly after we returned from the Dominican in 2024, God made sure that I could not let go of any of this. For that reason, what I thought was going to simply be the central focus of our Senior Class Bible Study this year actually transformed into so much more…

It became a mission. 

Special Beginnings

This year, our first night brought a special “welcome event” prepared for us by our Dominican friends. It was a time to start reflecting on the theme for this year, to begin building community between our cultures, and to form teams for a Tuesday night activity. The most meaningful aspect of this opener, however, was when the Dominicans had to interview us in English, and we had to interview them in Spanish, and then each person had to go in front of the church and introduce their “new friend” in their non-native language. No pressure! And yet it was a great way to not only break the ice, but to also start aligning hearts from the beginning.

Team Building 

Our first morning, we had a tour of the school grounds, the goat farm next door, and the village. Paul McMillan and his wife Linda, who together helped found the school, have approximately 500 goats (!) that they raise and use to sell milk and other dairy products. It’s truly impressive to see-- and it’s also not uncommon to be awakened to a “screaming goat,” as the farm is next to the girls’ cabin, and the goats are milked at 4:30am.

That day’s community-building activity was then a carnival night that our friends had set up on the basketball / volleyball court. There was a ring toss game, cornhole, balloon darts, a cup-stacking race, Bible Trivia Jeopardy, and dancing. The goal was to win games in order to earn fake dollars to then save for picking prizes-- most of which were brought down by us, so it was a great collaboration! 

Always Plenty to Sand & Paint!

Due to the climate in the Dominican, as well as the normal wear and tear that happens on school and church grounds, every year there is always plenty of sanding and then painting that needs to be done. This year we sanded and painted the playground by the lower elementary section of the school, a few upper elementary classrooms (once school was out for the year), the iron bars on the office and on the building next to the church, the church doors, the wall behind the church, picnic tables, and the garbage enclosures. That last one might seem super strange; however, imagine, a couple of years before we started going to the DR, they didn’t have any trash cans on the grounds, and so five hundred+ kids just threw all of their trash on the ground! Then they purchased huge, blue plastic outdoors garbage cans (no lids) for all around campus… and this year we arrived to see colorful “fencing” around a couple of the trash cans (mimicking what you see on the playground) to make these areas look even more presentable. So, we were simply making sure that all of them were freshly painted.

**FUN FACTS: A couple of our team members had a special “full circle moment” with painting this year. When we went to the DR for the first time in 2022, our first job was to sand and paint the entire lower elementary playground. Aaron Frasa and Kate Meyer were on that trip as well, after having finished their freshmen year. Now as graduated seniors, they both came back for their third and final mission trip-- and to sanding and painting the very place where their journey began.

This is the first year where SIX graduating Seniors joined us on mission! That was ~⅓ of the team!

Unique Opportunities

While we did a lot of painting this year, we also had a lot of other “out of the box” moments. First of all, imagine high school students at OCS roaming through the secondary, finding all of the broken furniture, and then fixing it themselves (wait a minute… maybe the DR is onto something here!). Then picture flooding in the street due to not having a ditch, and students digging one themselves. It’s pretty cool to see needs and then be able to meet them by using our own manpower. Well, then imagine a dining hall that was repainted two years ago-- only they never replaced any of the design work that was originally there-- and people who are gracious enough to let someone from another country use her gift to bring life back to that space.   After collaborating with the “first lady” of Juan Tomás, the elementary school principal and pastor’s wife, our very own Evie Cobb was given the opportunity to paint a verse above the serving area in the dining hall, a mural on the front wall, flowers all around the eating area, and another mural on a wall in the ball court! It was such a blessing to watch her make a blank canvas come to life with such incredible skill!

From there, a few students and I had the opportunity to help out with VBS Tuesday - Thursday, connecting the theme of “Valiant” with lessons on the Armor of God that my own Spanish IV students had written. Kudos and special thanks to Faith Denno, Morgan Dowdell, and Mia Gurney, who were brave enough to teach the lessons that they had written-- yes, in Spanish!-- to a room full of kids.

Finally, our group was also able to participate in a very special house dedication. When someone from the village makes a request of the church that a team help rebuild their house, when it is finished, a large group from the church-- plus whoever else is present (like our team)-- goes to the house, piles inside and around it, sings worship songs together, Pastor Richard gives a message, someone prays over the house and the family (this year I was asked!), and then we sing again. Words cannot express how powerful this experience is… and afterwards, some of us wondered if we could adopt this practice in the States.     

More Team Building

The most important thing that I stress with every mission trip is the reality that we are not going to the DR to “do projects” but rather to “build relationships.” Unity starts with our relationships with the Lord and with one another, and from there, we strive to keep building stronger relationships with our Dominican friends year after year. Thanks to the collaboration with “everybody’s friend” (and now a close family friend), Dharling Cruz, we not only had a carnival night, but also a “team night,” volleyball competition, and worship night. For the team night, we were all divided into the teams that were randomly chosen during our first night welcome event, which were a mixture of Dominicans and Michiganders. As a team, we had to design a flag (complete with a team name and spiritual connection), plus write a song or chant-- which we then had to perform in front of the whole group. Based on how well we accomplished these, we earned points to then see who the winning team would be. It was a lot of fun-- and quite hilarious to see what each team developed (including Brandon Pipp grunting like a caveman :).

Fruit Hunts & Party Busses

Some team members find the differences between life in Juan Tomás and life in Michigan absolutely captivating*. It’s always comical to see which students want to go “fruit hunting”-- and how excited they get over their treasures. Equally humorous is seeing the myriad of reactions when we end up on a “party bus” at some point on the trip, this time en route to and from our visit to the Colonial City-- Santo Domingo. In the U.S., if a student stands up on a bus, in less than a minute he/she will be yelled at to sit down. In the Dominican, you may find small, glowing disco balls lining the ceiling above the bus aisle (yes, you read that correctly), music blasted at earth-shattering decibels, and people piled in that aisle as they dance and jump and sing (yes, you read that correctly). This is the Dominican way. And while not everyone may chase after this lifestyle, no one can deny that the unrestrained joy exuding out of many of our Dominican friends is infectious.   

*This also includes capturing abnormally large beetles and tarantulas, but we won’t talk about those, letalone show pictures. Yes, there are pictures… :-0

The Power of Language

Statistics show that, for a number of reasons, knowing two languages is highly beneficial. When traveling on a mission trip, however, we are not focused on “statistics” but on “hearts.” While in Juan Tomás, we saw the beauty of knowing two languages come alive as some of our students worked with a 10th grade English class, assisting them in their conversational skills, and using their Spanish knowledge as needed to aid in the understanding of topics. Later in the week, the majority of our team-- per the instigation of Evie Cobb-- then joined with a group of Dominicans to head into the village to pray over people in Spanish (or in English with someone translating). It’s a wonderful thing to be able to use language to form bridges between cultures-- and even more rewarding when you can speak to someone in their own “heart language.”

The Beauty of Connections

From morning until night, it was all about connecting with one another and with the Dominicans. Each morning started with a personal, “pre-devotional” time of preparation and reflection-- and then after breakfast, we had group devotions (divided into two separate groups for the majority of the week). Since school started while we were eating breakfast, we were always greeted by lots of noise and “¡hola!s” from outside the dining hall, as well as plenty of hellos and hugs throughout the morning around the school grounds. The kids always wanted to be with us every chance they could get-- even when we were working-- and this year they were getting more bold in asking me to talk to their teachers to try and get them out of class. Oh, that sounds so familiar! :)  For those students that live near the school or are related to adults that work at the school or church, it was not uncommon to be playing games with them at other points in the afternoon or evening as well.  Finally, “late night chats” have become a tradition in the Dominican, and those who choose to participate will contend that the most rich conversations happen under the beloved mango tree…

Worshiping Together

Our friends in the DR are always so generous in their support of having team members use their gifts during church services as well. This year, as part of the week of community building events, our friends planned a special worship night during the usual Saturday night Youth Group group session. They called it “Firmes” in connection with our team verse, II Corinthians 15:58, where it commands us to “Manténganse firmes” = “Stand firm.” This night included a time to share praises & blessings, sing lots of worship songs (with our very own Kate Meyer and Tyler Morrissey helping to lead), and hear a tag-teamed mini-sermon-- given in Spanish by two of my Spanish IV students, Tyler and Aaron (yes, it was a proud teacher AND mom moment! :). But in all seriousness, to echo III John 1:4, "I have no greater joy than to hear that my children [and students] are walking in the truth.” To God be the glory!

Sharing God’s Faithfulness

Our last night of the trip is always a time of reflection, where each member of the team shares what they are most taking away from their time on mission. I didn’t think that anything could top last year’s two-hour long time of deep thoughts and connections, but this year genuinely left me marveling at how we saw the Spirit move in that space-- with 20 people crammed into my hotel room! Not only was it a time of sharing, but it was also a time of laying hands on people and praying fervently as things were shared and we felt led. Three hours later, we were emotionally exhausted but spiritually uplifted. It was the perfect way to end a trip that had God’s fingerprints all over it. We are most grateful… 
 

To view more photos from our trip, click HERE.
 

Oakland Christian School has been recognized with the SupportMusic Merit Award from The NAMM Foundation for its commitment to music education. This national award honors individual schools that demonstrate outstanding achievement in providing music access and education to all students—regardless of background, interest level, or ability.

Each year, the NAMM Foundation evaluates over 1,000 schools and districts across the country. Only a select group earns recognition through two awards: the Best Communities for Music Education (BCME), given to school districts, and the SupportMusic Merit Award (SMMA), which honors individual schools like ours. We're proud to be among the schools that have demonstrated the highest level of dedication to music programs.

“Our music program plays a vital role in shaping well-rounded students at Oakland Christian. Music education encourages creativity, teamwork, discipline, and personal expression—all of which align with our mission to develop the whole child.”

Thomas Blue, Elementary Music Teacher

As part of the selection process, Oakland Christian submitted detailed information about its music program, including funding, student involvement, curriculum, facilities, and community support. The data was reviewed and confirmed by WolfBrown, a national arts education research firm.

“This recognition is meaningful for our students and teachers. It affirms the hard work we’ve poured into building a music program that reflects excellence and gives students a chance to grow in ways that go beyond academics.”

Angela Scheu, Band Director and Fine Arts Coordinator

Whether it's a student picking up an instrument for the first time, singing in chapel, or performing at a concert, music is a key part of student life at Oakland Christian. This award underscores the school’s commitment to nurturing students both academically and artistically.

For more information about The NAMM Foundation and the SupportMusic Merit Award, visit nammfoundation.org.

Audrey Sirois, a senior who has been at OCS since Kindergarten, completed the Stepping Stumps as her capstone project for the American Heritage Girls, an organization she has been a part of since she first became a student at OCS! Audrey says, “It has been a blessing to grow up in this organization, as it has a strong focus on the Bible, leadership skills, life skills, and service to the community. Throughout high school, I have earned 18 badges so far. Some notable examples are Women of Faith, Money Management, Bible Basics, Outdoor Skills, and Emergency Preparedness. I also have 700+ hours of community service throughout my high school career.”

When Audrey told Mrs. Clark about wanting to do her American Heritage Girls capstone project at OCS, they decided to create the Stepping Stumps (based on a playground element in California) with the telephone pole scraps left behind from an old climbing wall OCS had years ago. The American Heritage Girls organization required Audrey to write up and submit a full report explaining every aspect of her project, from the plans to the designs to the schedule for implementation, etc. Audrey oversaw volunteers and got her own hands dirty completing all of her action items just in time for our elementary students to enjoy the new playground addition on the first day of school!

Thank you, Audrey, for doing your American Heritage Girls capstone project at OCS, and for creating something that our students will enjoy for years to come! 

If you would like more information about the American Heritage Girls organization, check out their website: https://americanheritagegirls.org/

Oakland Christian has made the AP School Honor Roll Platinum Level, the highest level of distinction for 2024.

The AP School Honor Roll recognizes schools whose AP programs are delivering results for students while broadening access. Schools can earn this recognition annually based on criteria that reflect a commitment to increasing college-going culture, providing opportunities for students to earn college credit, and maximizing college readiness.

The AP School Honor Roll offers four levels of distinction: Bronze, Silver, Gold, and Platinum. 

What is your role this year?  

Math teacher: Honors Algebra 2; Personal Finance; Pre-Calculus; AP Calculus

Tell us about your family.

I am married. I have 3 daughters and my wife has 4 daughters and 2 sons. Together we have 9 children and 12 grandchildren. There is always something happening. We also both take care of our mothers. 

What hobbies or interests do you have outside of work?

I like to play chess and darts. We go swimming and kayaking at the lake. I like to read and go for walks.

Why do you choose to work at Oakland Christian School?

I like the Christian mission of Oakland Christian School and many in our congregation send their children to OCS.

What is your favorite Bible Verse?

Philippians 4:6-7, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.”

What is your role this year?  

I'm excited to join the team at OCS serving in the kitchen.

Tell us about your family.

My husband, Matthew, and I have been married for 13 years. We are blessed to have two boys who keep our life so full of joy and opportunity to grow in God's grace. Our oldest will be in 2nd grade this year and our youngest will enter Kindergarten. We love to adventure with our boys in the daily things at home or through travel. We love spending time with extended family here in Michigan and in my home state of Washington. We're thankful for the friendships God gives our family through OCS, church, and community, and look forward to meeting more of the OCS family.

What hobbies or interests do you have outside of work?

I love to read and enjoy being a part of a book club. I like to play with my family whether that be a bike ride, a sport, or another activity.  We like to travel both to the UP and Washington to see family and travel to new places. This summer I've especially enjoyed sharing my love for the Olympics with my family. I enjoy baking, mostly cookies, but occasionally something else. I love being a part of the international Bible study program of Bible Study Fellowship and how it has fostered my growing love for God and His Word and for others.

Why do you choose to work at Oakland Christian School?

We're passionate about Christian education and so blessed by our family's experience at OCS. I'm excited to be a part of supporting this community and seeing the students and staff more. It brings me so much joy and I pray God will help me to share His joy.

What is your favorite Bible Verse?

"I can do all this through Him who gives me strength." Philippians 4:13 has been a favorite from when I first memorized it at a young age. It reminds me that in all circumstances God is my strength, and my strength doesn’t rest in myself but in Him. His strength knows no limit. This both comforts me and challenges me, correcting my thinking to not limit God but choose to trust in faith His will.