I want to say what a great experience I had on the rafting trip last weekend!  I was unsure about going because I knew one person on the trip who I had met only one time.  Other than that, I didn’t know anyone. But I decided to go anyway and I am SO glad I went!

Everyone was so friendly and supportive of each other. From the staff at the college to our rafting guide, bus driver, and everyone from FBA.  During the weekend we worked together and it was as though we were a team. Keith Langland and Mark Mirza went on the trip as well. Both lead devotions and some great principles were learned. For example, I learned the importance of knowing the doctrines that various spiritual leaders believe. I found out that I may be reading books written by an author or watching a pastor on TV who doesn’t believe what the Bible says. I learned to be wise when listening to various pastors and to question, “Is what you believe what the Bible says?”

We also read about the parable of the talents.  God gives everyone different talents. Do we use our “talents” or do we have doubts or feel incapable about our abilities?  The good news is that the abilities you have are just what God designed for you! You can be used to minister wherever you are right now in your life  whether it is at church, in an office, on a bus, on a raft, etc.

In an impromtpu Bible study on Friday morning, we learned the circumstances in which God does not answer prayer. How we are living our daily lives relates to our prayer life.

The devotions were so clearly explained and both Mark and Keith were available to answer any questions. It was a great opportunity to gain wisdom in such a clear and understandable way.

During this trip we took risks that caused us to step out of our comfort zone--trying new things such as caving, ropes course, rafting, paintball, etc.  I was amazed at the amount of encouragement expressed on this trip! People encouraged each other to challenge themselves and I heard many times “You can do it!” 

The trip was a lot of fun. I realized that the activities we did can relate to our relationship with God. For example, I tried the High Ropes course. This was definitely a challenge because I am afraid of heights. I ended up doing one element on the 20 ft. course. Even though I had a harness and a strong rope that connected me to the cable cord on the ropes course, I was still scared. I just wasn’t sure that the rope would hold me if I slipped. The guide said that he would go across the element with me. I then decided to give it a try.  It came to mind later that it is the same with God.  I know I can trust Him and He is always with me, but sometimes I get scared. However, God is strong enough to carry our burdens, and He will hold us up during times of fear or uncertainty, just like the rope and harness were strong enough to hold me. The guide was with me on the ropes course and God is with me always; I am not going through life alone. Take a step of faith and trust God because He won’t let you down! Overall, this trip was a great experience with great people and I am so glad I took the risk. 

Tina