Fundraising Begins

So the adventure of fundraising has begun. It is really interesting, this whole experience verses my past trips. In the past I had people writing emails saying "time is a wastin'! Hurry up, you only have X number of weeks left!" And now, I'm kind of at this alone, and it is scary and intimidating, and I'm not taking initiative like I should. Like I NEED to.

Have you heard the story of the man in a tiny boat in the middle of a lake? A huge storm comes up, and the man prays to God, "Oh Lord, save me!" and puts his oars down and waits. A larger boat comes along and shouts to the man, "can we help you?" And the man replies- "no thank you, I'm waiting on God." Another, even larger boat comes and asks the man "Do you need help?" And the man again refuses the help. So the man drowns and is at the pearly gates of Heaven and asks God, "Why didn't you help me?" And God replies- "I sent you two boats!"

I don't want to be like that. Stupidly sitting around, just waiting. I think we're called to be active. Somehow dependant on God, yet taking the initiative to step out and move forward.

I have sent out letters via email and I have hand delivered 10. I have gotten a few responses-and those of you who have already supported me: I promise thank yous are coming! But I'm starting to panic a little. Is this realization that I haven't really been stepping out. I'm scared and am instead shrinking back. What if I have come to this realization too late? Can you believe it-my leave date is in 4.5 months!!!! At this moment, I have raised $1,100 of the needed $16,000. EKKK. God I need help with faith!

I would appreciate prayers to increase my faith. And take away the fears I feel creeping in. Thanks all.

"There is no fear in love. But perfect loves casts out fear, because fear has to do with punishment." 1 John 4:18a