“They leave Georgia united, ready to conquer the world and take the Good News about Jesus to the nations. They go out on the field, experience some success, and the challenges come.”

This is what stood out to me the most on day four of The Compass.  Even though we are probably going to bond really well (actually, I know we will :] ), challenges are still going to arise.  Every one of us has talents and struggles which we’re going to have to figure out during training camp so we can build one another up to the best of our abilities.  For me, I’m not the most outgoing person ever so I’m kind of nervous about meeting you guys (but excited at the same time) because it takes a while for me to feel comfortable around people, so that’s one of my low points I could use help on.  However, I’ve been told that I’m a great encourager and I tend to pray on all circumstances, so I’ll be looking out for ways to use those gifts to help with your guys’ struggles.  I think if we all use our spiritual gifts to the best of our abilities, things will go smooth. 

Now, for the prayer. :]  Isn’t it so cool that Jesus prayed for us? (John 17:20-23) I’m sure this wasn’t the first time either.  “...that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you.”  Jesus and His Father are SO close, I can’t even imagine our team being as one as they are, but He desires it!  So, here’s my prayer for us.

Heavenly Father,

You’re so amazing for everything you have done.  Thank you so much for giving us this opportunity to meet each other and become one like you are with your Son.  There’s a reason why you chose this group of people, out of every teenager in America, to be on this team.  God, You’ve blessed each of us with spiritual gifts and I pray that You will help us to use them for Your glory.  When hardship strikes, when we come face to face with the evil in this world, please give us peace and understanding.  Thank you, God, for allowing us to see the world through Your eyes and I pray that you will bless us with many more opportunities in the future to do so.  United this team.  I know you have already begun the process, but with your love and wisdom let us look past our own struggles and focus on the positive side of things.

In Your Son’s name I pray,

Amen