So sorry, guys...
I am struggling with motivation to write.
I find that when I get home to 'work' online in the evenings I shut down. Even though I still have a couple to a few hours of evening to accomplish something; I just want to lay down and veg out. Our days are pretty go go go here, but not so much so that I shouldn't be able to write a blog or update here and there. I'm sorry about that. I think seriously that I need to add some sort of exercise to my routine- always helps to get the endorphins kickin'.
Christmas is around the corner and I will be spending it with my 'other Mom and Dad' on Oahu. They are generously getting me over to the other island and that will be very cool. I had never been to Hawaii before last year and I certainly haven't seen any other islands! The best part is that I will actually have family for Christmas... how blessed am I??
Bless you all!
Leah
Thursday, December 5, 2013
Friday, October 18, 2013
The Way Things are Going...
Hello! Well it's getting a bit trickier to make time to just blog! Our school is in the full flow now and things are, well, demanding! It's a good busy...but BUSY none the less. I was just saying to my leader yesterday that my plan is to staff this year to get the flow of things and then take online courses towards a degree next year- but that at this point I seriously could not imagine taking courses on top of my schedule!! I get up at 6:15am and don't make it home until around 10:15p. I try to go to sleep as soon as possible to get a good nights rest- sometimes I'm successful, sometimes I am not. But, PRAISE GOD I have a nice bed and shared apartment to come home to!!! I have the sweetest roommate! She is from Brazil and has a precious heart. I praise God for her- you never know when you meet a stranger if you will connect or be compatible for living together- but I am overjoyed to report that God in His love and mercy has given me Aline. :) We are still waiting for our 3rd roommate to arrive from Russia. She is having Visa issues and we just keep getting reports that it will be a bit longer, be a bit longer.. our rent is higher every month she is not here, so needless to say we are REALLY praying she comes sooooon! Not to mention she is also a staff member in my school, so until she gets here the weight that the only other female staff and I carry is much heavier.
You could pray for that! Thanks!!
The students are doing well; struggling with all the same issues that I did. Some of them may be reading this after I post it on facebook so I won't be too specific but if you could pray for them as well that would be great. Right now their school fees are due by Oct. 24th and 4 of them still owe a combined total of $7570. One gal in particular owes about $3500. of that amount. We are believing that God will provide as He has done so many times before. When something is His will, He makes a way.
I am teaching the book of Ruth in just a few weeks... OH PLEASE PRAY FOR THIS. The preparation is intense. I am not looking forward to it for the very most part. For those of you who know me, you know that I am totally capable of speaking in front of a crowd, but teaching...well... I can do it but it's not my strongest gift. I know it will be fine- I have every confidence because God would not have called me to it if He wasn't going to enable me to do it. It's just that I want to be truly knowledgeable in all the required information. You know me... I'm not into faking anything. I want to be the real deal. So please pray that I do truly well. I would appreciate that.
Along the lines of prayer requests I pray that you would also lift up my laptop and phone. You know how it goes... my laptop is 3 years old now. Last year I did have to take it for some repairs and I just dread the day it dies. It would not be worth the cost to repair it again. God is so amazing I know He will provide what I need when I need it. Also, sooner than that I fear my phone will go. It is a lemon- it has always been a lemon. But it's my lemon and again, I dread the day it goes, hehe. Neither of these are a 'right this minute' issue, and I praise God that I am truly blessed to have anything at all!! That is the truth.
Bless you guys!!!
Leah
You could pray for that! Thanks!!
The students are doing well; struggling with all the same issues that I did. Some of them may be reading this after I post it on facebook so I won't be too specific but if you could pray for them as well that would be great. Right now their school fees are due by Oct. 24th and 4 of them still owe a combined total of $7570. One gal in particular owes about $3500. of that amount. We are believing that God will provide as He has done so many times before. When something is His will, He makes a way.
I am teaching the book of Ruth in just a few weeks... OH PLEASE PRAY FOR THIS. The preparation is intense. I am not looking forward to it for the very most part. For those of you who know me, you know that I am totally capable of speaking in front of a crowd, but teaching...well... I can do it but it's not my strongest gift. I know it will be fine- I have every confidence because God would not have called me to it if He wasn't going to enable me to do it. It's just that I want to be truly knowledgeable in all the required information. You know me... I'm not into faking anything. I want to be the real deal. So please pray that I do truly well. I would appreciate that.
Along the lines of prayer requests I pray that you would also lift up my laptop and phone. You know how it goes... my laptop is 3 years old now. Last year I did have to take it for some repairs and I just dread the day it dies. It would not be worth the cost to repair it again. God is so amazing I know He will provide what I need when I need it. Also, sooner than that I fear my phone will go. It is a lemon- it has always been a lemon. But it's my lemon and again, I dread the day it goes, hehe. Neither of these are a 'right this minute' issue, and I praise God that I am truly blessed to have anything at all!! That is the truth.
Bless you guys!!!
Leah
Sunday, September 8, 2013
Back to Kona
Hey, Guys...
Well, it's official; I'm back in Kona. I've been here for a few days now and it's been quite an adjustment. I'm still adjusting, actually! It's so strange to come back to a place that feels so much like home in so many ways and yet be completely displaced.
The first day was a real struggle emotionally. My school leader picked me up and it was cool to hang out w/ him for a bit. We ran to Walmart and then got lunch at this awesome hole in the wall sushi place. He helped me get my staff stuff started (getting my ID, etc.) and got me to my room. For the first month I am staying on campus. Oh, the joys of campus life. Loud laughter after campus quiet time and children running around. It was a bit of a jolt just in that all of my belongings are in the apartment I thought I was coming back to; there are some (really nice) guys staying there until the end of the month after their quarter for school ends. I did go and get my sleeping bag, pillow, some shoes, etc. from them, but I don't want to go over there every time I need something! So I've had to re-buy some basics which will just be used in the long run anyway. I really make an effort to be flexible, but I confess sometimes when I have something in my head and it gets changed it takes me a bit to come around. The gals in my new room are great; I just didn't expect to be on a top bunk 3 feet from the ceiling climbing up and down for all my belongings! Praise God at 42 (almost!!) I am physically able to do it.
The first couple of days were rough. Like I said I feel at home here, but none of my dearest friends are here, so at every memory it is the obvious lack of them. I used to think that if I were ever in a Castaway (Tom Hanks) situation that I would be okay. That I would LOVE the serenity and after the initial shock of being alone I would probably be just fine alone w/ God in a beautiful place. Not that I wouldn't get lonely; just that I would be okay. Get myself a monkey! Or a Wilson! But after the first couple of days here, surrounded by hundreds of people but feeling so alone, I wondered if I would not be okay at all (as a Castaway). Finally at lunch I ran into a dear friend that was actually a part of my 'hang out' group last year. I yelled his name and we hugged... I said, "Man I could seriously cry just seeing you." He said, "I know, right?! I feel the same way!" He has been here since July w/ none of the close friends around and has not yet made intimate friends. It's tough, it's harder than it should be sometimes. We talked about what it feels like here and the adjustment.
I am totally confident that I will have dear friends here this year. I am confident that God will bring true fellowship. I'm not concerned about that; although I was before coming honestly. It's just the 'meantime.'
Yesterday I was in my room and one of our remaining staff called me and came to my room. She was on campus and was intentional about coming by to love on me and let me know that she is here for me. She is a saint and someone I know I can go to when things become rough. She is younger than my mother but just by a number of years. She is gentle and calm. Today we have a date for coffee.
Yesterday evening I ate dinner on campus and then went out w/ a group that will be on our staff team. Oh, my goodness, these kids are all so young. They are all in their 20's for the very most part. It's great, they are full of life. I did, I confess, feel like an outsider. They were not at ALL noninclusive- it was just that they all know each other from their own SBS. They were in the same class so they had the stories and inside jokes that come from spending 9 intense months in the trenches together. They explained and were kind- but I realized it will take awhile before we have our own stories and ties that bind. We have all signed up for two years of service to the SBS so I am confident we will grow to love each other dearly. It's just, again, the adjustment period.
I'm also grieving my Mom a bit. I tear just writing it. I am incredibly blessed in my relationship with my Mother. She truly is my best friend and we discuss everything. I had the spoiled blessing of skyping with her almost every morning while I was home. Now our time difference is exactly 12 hours apart so timing is tricky and with the new schedule I won't get that daily dose of processing and sharing. You know everything is better when you can run it by Mom! Thank You, God, for that precious relationship. Love you, Mama.
I appreciate any and all prayers for this adjustment time. We start staff training tomorrow and I am looking forward to it. I start my job in the evenings (chatting w/ pregnant gals who need resources and options) a week from tomorrow...so it is starting! It's all kicking into gear.
Thank you, guys, for everything. For your prayers and for caring. Bless all your buns!
Well, it's official; I'm back in Kona. I've been here for a few days now and it's been quite an adjustment. I'm still adjusting, actually! It's so strange to come back to a place that feels so much like home in so many ways and yet be completely displaced.
The first day was a real struggle emotionally. My school leader picked me up and it was cool to hang out w/ him for a bit. We ran to Walmart and then got lunch at this awesome hole in the wall sushi place. He helped me get my staff stuff started (getting my ID, etc.) and got me to my room. For the first month I am staying on campus. Oh, the joys of campus life. Loud laughter after campus quiet time and children running around. It was a bit of a jolt just in that all of my belongings are in the apartment I thought I was coming back to; there are some (really nice) guys staying there until the end of the month after their quarter for school ends. I did go and get my sleeping bag, pillow, some shoes, etc. from them, but I don't want to go over there every time I need something! So I've had to re-buy some basics which will just be used in the long run anyway. I really make an effort to be flexible, but I confess sometimes when I have something in my head and it gets changed it takes me a bit to come around. The gals in my new room are great; I just didn't expect to be on a top bunk 3 feet from the ceiling climbing up and down for all my belongings! Praise God at 42 (almost!!) I am physically able to do it.
The first couple of days were rough. Like I said I feel at home here, but none of my dearest friends are here, so at every memory it is the obvious lack of them. I used to think that if I were ever in a Castaway (Tom Hanks) situation that I would be okay. That I would LOVE the serenity and after the initial shock of being alone I would probably be just fine alone w/ God in a beautiful place. Not that I wouldn't get lonely; just that I would be okay. Get myself a monkey! Or a Wilson! But after the first couple of days here, surrounded by hundreds of people but feeling so alone, I wondered if I would not be okay at all (as a Castaway). Finally at lunch I ran into a dear friend that was actually a part of my 'hang out' group last year. I yelled his name and we hugged... I said, "Man I could seriously cry just seeing you." He said, "I know, right?! I feel the same way!" He has been here since July w/ none of the close friends around and has not yet made intimate friends. It's tough, it's harder than it should be sometimes. We talked about what it feels like here and the adjustment.
I am totally confident that I will have dear friends here this year. I am confident that God will bring true fellowship. I'm not concerned about that; although I was before coming honestly. It's just the 'meantime.'
Yesterday I was in my room and one of our remaining staff called me and came to my room. She was on campus and was intentional about coming by to love on me and let me know that she is here for me. She is a saint and someone I know I can go to when things become rough. She is younger than my mother but just by a number of years. She is gentle and calm. Today we have a date for coffee.
Yesterday evening I ate dinner on campus and then went out w/ a group that will be on our staff team. Oh, my goodness, these kids are all so young. They are all in their 20's for the very most part. It's great, they are full of life. I did, I confess, feel like an outsider. They were not at ALL noninclusive- it was just that they all know each other from their own SBS. They were in the same class so they had the stories and inside jokes that come from spending 9 intense months in the trenches together. They explained and were kind- but I realized it will take awhile before we have our own stories and ties that bind. We have all signed up for two years of service to the SBS so I am confident we will grow to love each other dearly. It's just, again, the adjustment period.
I'm also grieving my Mom a bit. I tear just writing it. I am incredibly blessed in my relationship with my Mother. She truly is my best friend and we discuss everything. I had the spoiled blessing of skyping with her almost every morning while I was home. Now our time difference is exactly 12 hours apart so timing is tricky and with the new schedule I won't get that daily dose of processing and sharing. You know everything is better when you can run it by Mom! Thank You, God, for that precious relationship. Love you, Mama.
I appreciate any and all prayers for this adjustment time. We start staff training tomorrow and I am looking forward to it. I start my job in the evenings (chatting w/ pregnant gals who need resources and options) a week from tomorrow...so it is starting! It's all kicking into gear.
Thank you, guys, for everything. For your prayers and for caring. Bless all your buns!
Tuesday, August 20, 2013
Forgive Me!!!
I'M SORRY! I'M SORRY!!!
I have told myself day after day 'just blog, Leah! Write a blog!' but... I haven't. Obviously. I'm positive no one's lives have been that greatly affected by this fact so I have kinda let myself slide but for those of you who are so gracious to keep up, I sincerely do apologize.
What a crazy ride being home for these summer weeks has been. I return to Kona in just two short weeks and feel the anxiety of all of the meetings I still need to have. Praise God, however that all I came home to accomplish- by His grace- has been accomplished!! I have insurance for this next year, both car and health, I have gained the support of a committed few to be members of the Team that will be regularly praying and some financially supporting the kingdom work that God is doing in my life. I taught the Inductive Bible Study Seminar last Saturday and after much stress I can say it went well. It was a small turnout but I am absolutely confident it was exactly what God would have it be. I confess I dropped the ball on better advertisement as my trepidation got the better of me. I have visited with family and friends, held my beloved dogs and cat, touched base with those who are dear to me and had the overwhelming miracle of God confirming His word of sending my truck over to Hawaii become a reality!! THAT is the story I will tell...
As some of you have read I was debating selling my beloved truck. I know we are not supposed to have treasures on earth. Getting this truck was a miracle in itself. I have had it for 10 years now. It is literally my only asset. I have held loosely and given up most of the ties that bound me to go to Kona and invest my life in serving God and in His Word. This last season I was praying about selling my truck. I made a further two year commitment to be in Kona and I was not willing to pay the (ever increasing) price of having it just sit in my mother's drive way- which wasn't good for the truck, or for my pocketbook. I really believed God had told me He was going to get it to Kona. Whaaaaat? That just seemed "too big" to me. How the heck? But I had a buddy move to another island, and as we spoke one night he told me that is exactly what he had done with his truck. I told him I needed the details about how that had worked. He gave them to me, and as I googled different options I found that it would cost $1025. to ship. Well- I have seen Him do greater things, but still it seemed like an awfully lot. I came home, weeks went by... finally I came to exactly four weeks until I had to return to Kona. I prayed, "Oh, Lord... I know you are never late, but I sure would appreciate you being early on this one. I really don't want to have to get down to the wire wondering, 'is this actually going to happen' or what arrangements I need to make for my truck, or sell it...? Well THAT AFTERNOON I got a text from some dear supporters and friends of mine. She said, "I have your support for this month- how do you want it? OR if you feel that you have your monthly expenses met for the year, we could give it to you in a lump sum which would get your truck over..." I WAS FLOORED. FLOORED!!! "Um... YES PLEASE!" I wasn't positive of the exact dollar support for my monthly expenses but I knew that God was not going to leave me hanging. She gave me the check. I have booked the date to drop my truck off in Oakland, Ca... and they will ship it to Hilo, HI. I will have to get a ride to the other side of the island to pick it up. I need to pay for gas for the person who takes me to Oakland and the person who takes me to Hilo- but its happening! It's really happening!! I got new car insurance that is MUCH less than the previous insurance that I had (we won't go into that story)! I am a sistah that is hooked up! Having a vehicle will bless the school, students with needs, and of course, me personally!! I still plan on walking where I can, but actually getting to see some of the island this year is an exciting thought!! woot woot!!!
I continue to be grateful for the prayers and support I have received. It feels so amazing to see and feel God's hand so completely upon me. Why do we choose to live anywhere but the center of His will? It is astounding! Even as I write that I know that the boldness in saying so will rouse the heart of my enemy to lash out at me with temptations to get me side tracked. This is his ammo and how he functions. Tough Turkey Toes. God is my provider and my protector! I will cry His name from the mountain tops giving Him Glory for ALL He has done and continues to do!!! More, Lord!! I want MORE OF YOU AND OF YOUR SPIRIT!!! I cannot wait to see lives changed and healing come in YOUR Mighty Name in this next season! I embrace my own season of wellness and know that all of the suffering has been for the sake of the call that will work together for good! This is a lot of exclamation points but I am excited!
Love you guys- xoxo
I have told myself day after day 'just blog, Leah! Write a blog!' but... I haven't. Obviously. I'm positive no one's lives have been that greatly affected by this fact so I have kinda let myself slide but for those of you who are so gracious to keep up, I sincerely do apologize.
What a crazy ride being home for these summer weeks has been. I return to Kona in just two short weeks and feel the anxiety of all of the meetings I still need to have. Praise God, however that all I came home to accomplish- by His grace- has been accomplished!! I have insurance for this next year, both car and health, I have gained the support of a committed few to be members of the Team that will be regularly praying and some financially supporting the kingdom work that God is doing in my life. I taught the Inductive Bible Study Seminar last Saturday and after much stress I can say it went well. It was a small turnout but I am absolutely confident it was exactly what God would have it be. I confess I dropped the ball on better advertisement as my trepidation got the better of me. I have visited with family and friends, held my beloved dogs and cat, touched base with those who are dear to me and had the overwhelming miracle of God confirming His word of sending my truck over to Hawaii become a reality!! THAT is the story I will tell...
As some of you have read I was debating selling my beloved truck. I know we are not supposed to have treasures on earth. Getting this truck was a miracle in itself. I have had it for 10 years now. It is literally my only asset. I have held loosely and given up most of the ties that bound me to go to Kona and invest my life in serving God and in His Word. This last season I was praying about selling my truck. I made a further two year commitment to be in Kona and I was not willing to pay the (ever increasing) price of having it just sit in my mother's drive way- which wasn't good for the truck, or for my pocketbook. I really believed God had told me He was going to get it to Kona. Whaaaaat? That just seemed "too big" to me. How the heck? But I had a buddy move to another island, and as we spoke one night he told me that is exactly what he had done with his truck. I told him I needed the details about how that had worked. He gave them to me, and as I googled different options I found that it would cost $1025. to ship. Well- I have seen Him do greater things, but still it seemed like an awfully lot. I came home, weeks went by... finally I came to exactly four weeks until I had to return to Kona. I prayed, "Oh, Lord... I know you are never late, but I sure would appreciate you being early on this one. I really don't want to have to get down to the wire wondering, 'is this actually going to happen' or what arrangements I need to make for my truck, or sell it...? Well THAT AFTERNOON I got a text from some dear supporters and friends of mine. She said, "I have your support for this month- how do you want it? OR if you feel that you have your monthly expenses met for the year, we could give it to you in a lump sum which would get your truck over..." I WAS FLOORED. FLOORED!!! "Um... YES PLEASE!" I wasn't positive of the exact dollar support for my monthly expenses but I knew that God was not going to leave me hanging. She gave me the check. I have booked the date to drop my truck off in Oakland, Ca... and they will ship it to Hilo, HI. I will have to get a ride to the other side of the island to pick it up. I need to pay for gas for the person who takes me to Oakland and the person who takes me to Hilo- but its happening! It's really happening!! I got new car insurance that is MUCH less than the previous insurance that I had (we won't go into that story)! I am a sistah that is hooked up! Having a vehicle will bless the school, students with needs, and of course, me personally!! I still plan on walking where I can, but actually getting to see some of the island this year is an exciting thought!! woot woot!!!
I continue to be grateful for the prayers and support I have received. It feels so amazing to see and feel God's hand so completely upon me. Why do we choose to live anywhere but the center of His will? It is astounding! Even as I write that I know that the boldness in saying so will rouse the heart of my enemy to lash out at me with temptations to get me side tracked. This is his ammo and how he functions. Tough Turkey Toes. God is my provider and my protector! I will cry His name from the mountain tops giving Him Glory for ALL He has done and continues to do!!! More, Lord!! I want MORE OF YOU AND OF YOUR SPIRIT!!! I cannot wait to see lives changed and healing come in YOUR Mighty Name in this next season! I embrace my own season of wellness and know that all of the suffering has been for the sake of the call that will work together for good! This is a lot of exclamation points but I am excited!
Love you guys- xoxo
Sunday, July 14, 2013
It has not Slowed Down!!
Hey, Sweet Friends...
Just a quick update. I have been back home in California for just about 2 weeks now. It has not slowed down as I was home for only 3 days before driving to Southern California to visit my 'other parents', up to Temecula w/ my friend from school Femi to visit one of our bible teachers; the one and only Steve Gregg with his absolutely gorgeous and gracious wife Dayna, then back to Palm Desert w/ the folks, then back to LA to visit a girlfriend of mine from high school for a couple of days and theeeenn... pause for breath... over to a celebration of my oldest friend's 20th wedding celebration! I was her original maid of honor and was so thrilled to get to be with them as they renewed their vows. I put over 1500 miles on my truck and was... exhausted to say the least. So now I have been setting dates and making plans, getting quotes and going through items for a yard sale (on the 20th- come one come all!) Next week I am honored to speak at my brother's church (it is my mother's church, too, when she is in California.) I am nervous about it- I will be sharing a brief testimony, about YWAM, and about the Chronological school of biblical studies I just finished as well as about the two year commitment I have made and what that looks like. Please pray for the Holy Spirit to go before me and that it will be whatever God intends for it to be!! Thank you...
Tomorrow I start making phone calls to meet with people one on one regarding support for the next two years. I have been full of the fear of man and rejection regarding these meetings. Church this morning was so good as they reminded that fear is totally from the enemy (which I do know, but it is always a good reminder) and that God did not give us a spirit of timidity, that perfect love casts out all fear, and that as big as the 'mountain' in front of me is... it will never get any bigger than what it is...where as I can always grow and get bigger spiritually! Get out of my way, mountain, I am doing God's will here!! Halla!! :) My precious girlfriend from school reminded me that what I am doing is priceless and the lives that will be changed are a worthy cause! I am so grateful to have Truth spoken to me. I am even more grateful that God has already chosen these team members and roused them towards how He would have them participate in all He will be accomplishing in these next two years. Sending His word to the nations; so cool.
As mentioned before, I have started setting dates to the seminar's that I will be teaching on the Inductive Bible Study method. I know some of you have asked (Rhonda and Jungmee!) when, where, etc... so the first one will be at Bethany Christian Services in Modesto on Saturday August 17th from 9am-1pm. 3048 Hahn Dr. Modesto, Ca 95355. It will be $20. per person. Please email me at leahdesalles@gmail.com to register. I look so forward to sharing with you!! (Aaaaand I am soooo nervous about it so pleaaaaase pray!!)
I think I will wrap it up there... keep it simple. I would sincerely appreciate your prayers regarding "the team" God is raising up, these seminars, and the yard sale I will be having! THANK YOU SO MUCH... blessings!!! xoxo
ps... also, please be praying for our team teaching bible to pastors underground in a location I can not mention on the internet!! thank you!!
Just a quick update. I have been back home in California for just about 2 weeks now. It has not slowed down as I was home for only 3 days before driving to Southern California to visit my 'other parents', up to Temecula w/ my friend from school Femi to visit one of our bible teachers; the one and only Steve Gregg with his absolutely gorgeous and gracious wife Dayna, then back to Palm Desert w/ the folks, then back to LA to visit a girlfriend of mine from high school for a couple of days and theeeenn... pause for breath... over to a celebration of my oldest friend's 20th wedding celebration! I was her original maid of honor and was so thrilled to get to be with them as they renewed their vows. I put over 1500 miles on my truck and was... exhausted to say the least. So now I have been setting dates and making plans, getting quotes and going through items for a yard sale (on the 20th- come one come all!) Next week I am honored to speak at my brother's church (it is my mother's church, too, when she is in California.) I am nervous about it- I will be sharing a brief testimony, about YWAM, and about the Chronological school of biblical studies I just finished as well as about the two year commitment I have made and what that looks like. Please pray for the Holy Spirit to go before me and that it will be whatever God intends for it to be!! Thank you...
Tomorrow I start making phone calls to meet with people one on one regarding support for the next two years. I have been full of the fear of man and rejection regarding these meetings. Church this morning was so good as they reminded that fear is totally from the enemy (which I do know, but it is always a good reminder) and that God did not give us a spirit of timidity, that perfect love casts out all fear, and that as big as the 'mountain' in front of me is... it will never get any bigger than what it is...where as I can always grow and get bigger spiritually! Get out of my way, mountain, I am doing God's will here!! Halla!! :) My precious girlfriend from school reminded me that what I am doing is priceless and the lives that will be changed are a worthy cause! I am so grateful to have Truth spoken to me. I am even more grateful that God has already chosen these team members and roused them towards how He would have them participate in all He will be accomplishing in these next two years. Sending His word to the nations; so cool.
As mentioned before, I have started setting dates to the seminar's that I will be teaching on the Inductive Bible Study method. I know some of you have asked (Rhonda and Jungmee!) when, where, etc... so the first one will be at Bethany Christian Services in Modesto on Saturday August 17th from 9am-1pm. 3048 Hahn Dr. Modesto, Ca 95355. It will be $20. per person. Please email me at leahdesalles@gmail.com to register. I look so forward to sharing with you!! (Aaaaand I am soooo nervous about it so pleaaaaase pray!!)
I think I will wrap it up there... keep it simple. I would sincerely appreciate your prayers regarding "the team" God is raising up, these seminars, and the yard sale I will be having! THANK YOU SO MUCH... blessings!!! xoxo
ps... also, please be praying for our team teaching bible to pastors underground in a location I can not mention on the internet!! thank you!!
Friday, June 28, 2013
Home again~ but changed.
Well, shoot.
I have been meaning to write at some dramatic time like during a layover in an airport or something...but here I am... writing after getting home from the four walls that have known me the longest! Praise God I flew from Hawaii on time at 10:03pm and arrived in San Francisco California at 2:30am my time and around 6:30am California time. I had a three hour lay over before I flew to Sacramento- God is so good. I was dreading the three hour layover being so tired and not having slept much- but when I got the SFO and found my gate, I sat down and they started announcing an earlier flight to Sacramento. I went to the counter and asked...actually, I barely had to ask- the guy behind the counter was so friendly and got me right on the next flight! I called my dad to warn him I'd be in Sac earlier and as soon as I hung up- I boarded! An hour later I was in Sacramento. My body was starting to get really upset with me for not sleeping or eating in several hours. So I tried to relax a bit and in swift time my dad and stepmom were there to get me! Home by 11:10am..in bed by 11:20am... slept for 3 hours. Made myself get up so that I could sleep last night (which was NOT going to be a problem!) We are so used to go go going that when I woke up I didn't know what to do w/ myself. I washed my beloved blessing of a vehicle, charged the battery, had dinner w/ my brother and took it for a spin 'around the block.' I felt so grown up driving my truck!! It is really something to not have your own transportation for the better part of a year. I confess my legs are in great shape after walking all over that mountain... but oh the joy of hopping in your car to run errands at a distance! Praise You, God for your gifts to us!!
I have had $8. in my checking account for about a month. I wasn't freaking out because He has taught me to know better. When I need something, He will provide it; and everything in June had been accomplished...but here comes July ;) So! I traveled home and am scheduled to go to Palm Desert (Southern California) to visit my 'other parents.' I knew the gas of that would cost about $100. and I knew I could cancel if I didn't have the money by Monday (when I am scheduled to leave.) I just trusted that if it was God's will He would provide. (I don't know when visiting family is NOT God's will, but, timing possibly...so... I trusted.) I got home and an envelope had been sitting in my room for 3 months. It was from blood work that I had done a year ago. It was a refund check from overpaying last year! $178. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. He is so generous and on time, I cannot express. So I have money to go visit my 'other parents' and enough to cover my phone bill that will be coming in a week or so...plus a bit. Hallelujah.
It's strange to be home. Strange to think of all these winter clothes that belong to me. I will be having a yard sale in the next couple of weeks to earn money to print off the materials that I need to teach the seminars on how to study the bible- still working on the exact dates of those, but they are coming sooon!! I think most will be August dates, but we shall see... maybe one late July.
I am both nervous and eager to teach these seminars.
School ending was super emotional. So many months we had fought together to achieve our goal and when it was finally over it was-well- over. We cried and had a fantastic graduation dinner and slide show. All the faces that had become so dear. My best friends and I just clung to each other dreading the minute we had to let go. When we did it was just brutal. I love these girls beyond what words can express. To have fought so hard and so long for something while experiencing all the transformation that comes with it along the way must be a bit like having gone through war together. (Not an accurate comparison at all, but you get the gist of what I'm saying.) No one else can quite understand what you just went through or what it took out of you. All that you learned and what was poured INTO you. The bible nerd jokes and new language. Thank God for modern technology! We have been 'voxing' each other regularly with constant updates of flights and feelings. Thank God for Facebook (how many people can say that?!). That was a hard earned 48 units of credit and I am grateful for the gifts of my room mates and friends that went through it with me. Love those guys.
Now in September (just 9 weeks from now) I will be returning as staff. This means that I will grade the homework of the new students, have one on one counseling with them when they want or need it, teach...oh, Lord! Teach! and do all the things that need doing... which is anything and everything they tell me to do! I am eager to see how many nations we will be pouring into this year and be the truly sympathetic ear when they are struggling. It is a battle I have fought and am eager to help others fight well also.
I praise God for His faithful provision. I never had to go without my vitamins, I always had food to eat (even when it sucked) and people I could turn to. I absolutely know that I have grown stronger in my spirit through His and that I am not who I was 9 months ago. I have the foundation of God's word locked into my heart and understand His intentions for us through it. I am clear on what I believe and why I believe it. I have had questions answered and doctrine solidified. I look forward to continuing my education and pouring out to the nations all that has been given me.
If you EVER want to visit Kona- I hope you will! I hope you can sit in on a day of lecture and experience what God is doing and how He is moving. How we would love to have you!
In the meantime please pray about attending one of my Inductive Bible Study seminars. I would be honored if you would consider coming!!!
Thank you for your continued prayers and support!! Blessings.
I have been meaning to write at some dramatic time like during a layover in an airport or something...but here I am... writing after getting home from the four walls that have known me the longest! Praise God I flew from Hawaii on time at 10:03pm and arrived in San Francisco California at 2:30am my time and around 6:30am California time. I had a three hour lay over before I flew to Sacramento- God is so good. I was dreading the three hour layover being so tired and not having slept much- but when I got the SFO and found my gate, I sat down and they started announcing an earlier flight to Sacramento. I went to the counter and asked...actually, I barely had to ask- the guy behind the counter was so friendly and got me right on the next flight! I called my dad to warn him I'd be in Sac earlier and as soon as I hung up- I boarded! An hour later I was in Sacramento. My body was starting to get really upset with me for not sleeping or eating in several hours. So I tried to relax a bit and in swift time my dad and stepmom were there to get me! Home by 11:10am..in bed by 11:20am... slept for 3 hours. Made myself get up so that I could sleep last night (which was NOT going to be a problem!) We are so used to go go going that when I woke up I didn't know what to do w/ myself. I washed my beloved blessing of a vehicle, charged the battery, had dinner w/ my brother and took it for a spin 'around the block.' I felt so grown up driving my truck!! It is really something to not have your own transportation for the better part of a year. I confess my legs are in great shape after walking all over that mountain... but oh the joy of hopping in your car to run errands at a distance! Praise You, God for your gifts to us!!
I have had $8. in my checking account for about a month. I wasn't freaking out because He has taught me to know better. When I need something, He will provide it; and everything in June had been accomplished...but here comes July ;) So! I traveled home and am scheduled to go to Palm Desert (Southern California) to visit my 'other parents.' I knew the gas of that would cost about $100. and I knew I could cancel if I didn't have the money by Monday (when I am scheduled to leave.) I just trusted that if it was God's will He would provide. (I don't know when visiting family is NOT God's will, but, timing possibly...so... I trusted.) I got home and an envelope had been sitting in my room for 3 months. It was from blood work that I had done a year ago. It was a refund check from overpaying last year! $178. Praise God from whom all blessings flow. He is so generous and on time, I cannot express. So I have money to go visit my 'other parents' and enough to cover my phone bill that will be coming in a week or so...plus a bit. Hallelujah.
It's strange to be home. Strange to think of all these winter clothes that belong to me. I will be having a yard sale in the next couple of weeks to earn money to print off the materials that I need to teach the seminars on how to study the bible- still working on the exact dates of those, but they are coming sooon!! I think most will be August dates, but we shall see... maybe one late July.
I am both nervous and eager to teach these seminars.
School ending was super emotional. So many months we had fought together to achieve our goal and when it was finally over it was-well- over. We cried and had a fantastic graduation dinner and slide show. All the faces that had become so dear. My best friends and I just clung to each other dreading the minute we had to let go. When we did it was just brutal. I love these girls beyond what words can express. To have fought so hard and so long for something while experiencing all the transformation that comes with it along the way must be a bit like having gone through war together. (Not an accurate comparison at all, but you get the gist of what I'm saying.) No one else can quite understand what you just went through or what it took out of you. All that you learned and what was poured INTO you. The bible nerd jokes and new language. Thank God for modern technology! We have been 'voxing' each other regularly with constant updates of flights and feelings. Thank God for Facebook (how many people can say that?!). That was a hard earned 48 units of credit and I am grateful for the gifts of my room mates and friends that went through it with me. Love those guys.
Now in September (just 9 weeks from now) I will be returning as staff. This means that I will grade the homework of the new students, have one on one counseling with them when they want or need it, teach...oh, Lord! Teach! and do all the things that need doing... which is anything and everything they tell me to do! I am eager to see how many nations we will be pouring into this year and be the truly sympathetic ear when they are struggling. It is a battle I have fought and am eager to help others fight well also.
I praise God for His faithful provision. I never had to go without my vitamins, I always had food to eat (even when it sucked) and people I could turn to. I absolutely know that I have grown stronger in my spirit through His and that I am not who I was 9 months ago. I have the foundation of God's word locked into my heart and understand His intentions for us through it. I am clear on what I believe and why I believe it. I have had questions answered and doctrine solidified. I look forward to continuing my education and pouring out to the nations all that has been given me.
If you EVER want to visit Kona- I hope you will! I hope you can sit in on a day of lecture and experience what God is doing and how He is moving. How we would love to have you!
In the meantime please pray about attending one of my Inductive Bible Study seminars. I would be honored if you would consider coming!!!
Thank you for your continued prayers and support!! Blessings.
Sunday, June 9, 2013
Giving Glory to the One!!
God is trippin' me out!!
He is unbelievably generous and attentive. It's amazing how being in the center of His will for you comes with such eerie provision and guidance. One wonders why they ever wasted time anywhere else!! Remember THAT when facing temptation!! (as we inevitably do...)
I wrote before that I knew God would get me home to accomplish all that needs to be done this summer- I didn't know HOW I would get there, but I knew if it was His will, I would get there...well... my dad and stepmom allowed the Spirit to rouse them and decided to give me some of their flyer miles to get me home and back again!! This is a miracle in more ways than one, and I am grateful...so grateful. When they called (which is also uncommon) I was blown away- upon hanging up I was literally on the floor laughing and crying, making strange noises that my room mates may have wondered about from the kitchen; nonetheless I could not control myself. I know He will provide, I try my best to walk in the faith of trusting He will provide, but it's not as easy as it should be...so He just keeps showing Himself to me in these huge ways. When it happens I cannot help but stand in such humbling awe. His timing is flawless- always exactly when it's needed.
Here is another story of my 'trying my best' to trust Him fully. (It's not that I don't think He is trustworthy- I KNOW HE IS TRUSTWORTHY- it is my earthly lack of trust in people from past hurts that transfers over to my God, even tho He is so undeserving of such hesitation.)
So- my cell phone bill was coming due. Funny how that happens every month ;) It was coming due and I did not have the full amount. I just prayed, "Lord- you know what my needs are. I am not going to ride the emotional roller coaster every time I have a need. I trust You." These words are easier prayed than done. It was going to be taken out of my account automatically in two days. The first day I called my mother- and asked for it. Way to trust God! She could not transfer money from her bank in the Netherlands to mine in California. So we were both praying. I called my best girlfriend...and asked her for it (so embarrassing). Way to trust God! She didn't get my message until way too late- the next day it would come out of my account. I called the phone company and asked them to not take it out automatically- this would cause my account to bounce and be charged $32. over what the bill would even be! The bill itself wasn't due until the 9th and they take it automatically on the 6th. I told my Mom jokingly, "I bought God a couple of days." (Like He needs it. such a joke.) SO!! The part you are waiting for... my room mate had a fundraiser that evening. I usually help her in that she is from India and all students from other countries must have an American to accept the money for some legal reason. So- we did her fundraiser. That evening she comes to me with her tithe. I, of course, tried to refuse like a good prideful child. I tell her the money is for her outreach, yada yada... She tells me in firm fashion that it is not her tithe just from this night, but from other things as well and that it is between her and God and she is insistent on tithing... wants to give it to me! ugh. so humbling. So- it's in cash. I can't get it to my bank in time or pay online with it. I am thinking, 'how can I pay my bill?' She asks me about it- because she thought my mom had paid it- I said, 'No, she hadn't. Couldn't.' "Oh!" she exclaims, "I can give you the tithe from my card if that is easier-" SO SHE PAYS MY PHONE BILL. Again RIGHT on time... I didn't need to buy God time or anything. He had it covered. He knew what she was going to do, He knew her tithes together would equal the exact amount of my bill. He knew the day and hour it was due. It is always especially humbling when missionaries give to other missionaries. It is a great feeling to be able to support each other in our needs. I confess I much prefer being on the giving end...but hey... God is in control. So- all that to give Glory to the One who is able to keep me and do exceedingly abundantly above or beyond anything I can wrap my head around.
As I come home (in 18 days!!!) I am overwhelmed by God's goodness to me. I have so much more to write, but you know how I feel about blogs that are too long. So please just be praying for the ability to accomplish all I need to while I'm home. I need to:
* Have a yard sale to earn money (yuck, right?)
* Go down south and visit my in-laws (yay!)
* Arrange and pay for health insurance for the next year (so I can be on the YWAM base)
* Practice and Teach 2/3 educational seminars on the Inductive Bible Study Method (who's in?!!!) (This also requires printing off the materials before the seminars... yard sale money?)
* Decide once and for all what to do about my truck...
(God is leading me towards shipping it here...which should cost about $1100. - about what I would pay for a moped. This will allow me to get to church next year and also take students places, grocery shop, run errands, etc. You know... HAVE TRANSPORTATION.)
* Try to see my doctor
* Try to see a dentist? (probably not)
* I know I am leaving things off :)
I covet your prayers!!! Love and thanks, guys!! xoxo
He is unbelievably generous and attentive. It's amazing how being in the center of His will for you comes with such eerie provision and guidance. One wonders why they ever wasted time anywhere else!! Remember THAT when facing temptation!! (as we inevitably do...)
I wrote before that I knew God would get me home to accomplish all that needs to be done this summer- I didn't know HOW I would get there, but I knew if it was His will, I would get there...well... my dad and stepmom allowed the Spirit to rouse them and decided to give me some of their flyer miles to get me home and back again!! This is a miracle in more ways than one, and I am grateful...so grateful. When they called (which is also uncommon) I was blown away- upon hanging up I was literally on the floor laughing and crying, making strange noises that my room mates may have wondered about from the kitchen; nonetheless I could not control myself. I know He will provide, I try my best to walk in the faith of trusting He will provide, but it's not as easy as it should be...so He just keeps showing Himself to me in these huge ways. When it happens I cannot help but stand in such humbling awe. His timing is flawless- always exactly when it's needed.
Here is another story of my 'trying my best' to trust Him fully. (It's not that I don't think He is trustworthy- I KNOW HE IS TRUSTWORTHY- it is my earthly lack of trust in people from past hurts that transfers over to my God, even tho He is so undeserving of such hesitation.)
So- my cell phone bill was coming due. Funny how that happens every month ;) It was coming due and I did not have the full amount. I just prayed, "Lord- you know what my needs are. I am not going to ride the emotional roller coaster every time I have a need. I trust You." These words are easier prayed than done. It was going to be taken out of my account automatically in two days. The first day I called my mother- and asked for it. Way to trust God! She could not transfer money from her bank in the Netherlands to mine in California. So we were both praying. I called my best girlfriend...and asked her for it (so embarrassing). Way to trust God! She didn't get my message until way too late- the next day it would come out of my account. I called the phone company and asked them to not take it out automatically- this would cause my account to bounce and be charged $32. over what the bill would even be! The bill itself wasn't due until the 9th and they take it automatically on the 6th. I told my Mom jokingly, "I bought God a couple of days." (Like He needs it. such a joke.) SO!! The part you are waiting for... my room mate had a fundraiser that evening. I usually help her in that she is from India and all students from other countries must have an American to accept the money for some legal reason. So- we did her fundraiser. That evening she comes to me with her tithe. I, of course, tried to refuse like a good prideful child. I tell her the money is for her outreach, yada yada... She tells me in firm fashion that it is not her tithe just from this night, but from other things as well and that it is between her and God and she is insistent on tithing... wants to give it to me! ugh. so humbling. So- it's in cash. I can't get it to my bank in time or pay online with it. I am thinking, 'how can I pay my bill?' She asks me about it- because she thought my mom had paid it- I said, 'No, she hadn't. Couldn't.' "Oh!" she exclaims, "I can give you the tithe from my card if that is easier-" SO SHE PAYS MY PHONE BILL. Again RIGHT on time... I didn't need to buy God time or anything. He had it covered. He knew what she was going to do, He knew her tithes together would equal the exact amount of my bill. He knew the day and hour it was due. It is always especially humbling when missionaries give to other missionaries. It is a great feeling to be able to support each other in our needs. I confess I much prefer being on the giving end...but hey... God is in control. So- all that to give Glory to the One who is able to keep me and do exceedingly abundantly above or beyond anything I can wrap my head around.
As I come home (in 18 days!!!) I am overwhelmed by God's goodness to me. I have so much more to write, but you know how I feel about blogs that are too long. So please just be praying for the ability to accomplish all I need to while I'm home. I need to:
* Have a yard sale to earn money (yuck, right?)
* Go down south and visit my in-laws (yay!)
* Arrange and pay for health insurance for the next year (so I can be on the YWAM base)
* Practice and Teach 2/3 educational seminars on the Inductive Bible Study Method (who's in?!!!) (This also requires printing off the materials before the seminars... yard sale money?)
* Decide once and for all what to do about my truck...
(God is leading me towards shipping it here...which should cost about $1100. - about what I would pay for a moped. This will allow me to get to church next year and also take students places, grocery shop, run errands, etc. You know... HAVE TRANSPORTATION.)
* Try to see my doctor
* Try to see a dentist? (probably not)
* I know I am leaving things off :)
I covet your prayers!!! Love and thanks, guys!! xoxo
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