World Race America-Here I come!

Almost a year ago I applied to World Race America. I had been considering applying to the World Race for a few weeks. After church, I laid a blanket on the ground under a big tree in our yard, sat down with my books and laptop, and listened to Rend Collective. I typed in the WR website to do some more research and the route for WR America popped up on the home screen. In that moment, I knew I had to apply. I had been looking at the international routes, but I felt clearly directed toward WRA.

Here’s the funny thing…

I wasn’t accepted. 

I didn’t understand. I started questioning what I heard from God. And my pride was hurt.

I took some time to search for clarity and knew I wasn’t supposed to stay home. Out of obedience and with some hesitation, I committed to 11 months in Asia and Africa… 

And then Covid happened.

Coming home so quickly turned my world upside down. For the first time in my life I didn’t have a plan. Every time I wanted to make one, the Lord said, “wait.”

If you’re in a season of waiting, read Psalm 23. This Psalm is underlined, circled, and highlighted in my Bible. It gave me hope and strength in the moments where the waiting felt pointless and unending. Throughout the Psalm David writes, wait on the Lord, trust in the Lord, rest in the Lord. 

A few weeks ago, we had a squad call and were given an overwhelming amount of information. Adventures in Missions has gone above and beyond to provide options moving forward. These included discipleship school, international routes, short term trips, and World Race America. I processed through the information for about a week, talked it through with a few close friends and mentors, and prayed A LOT.  

During a call with my squad mentor I finally said, “Amy, I don’t know why I’m questioning this. A year ago I knew God was calling me to World Race America, so that’s what I’m going to do.”

Which means…

At the end of July, I’ll hop in a van with a few others from C-Squad to travel through the US, partner with churches and ministries, and be the hands and feet of Jesus right here in our own country!!!

Eek! I’m so excited!

God has taught me so much about His character in the past few months. Two major lessons I’ve learned are:

1. Don’t question His word even when what I see doesn’t make sense. He is the author and finisher of our faith (Hebrews 12:2). He purposes. He establishes. He finishes.
2. Faith doesn’t mean I have to know every step before I move-it means I can take a step knowing that Jesus is with me. It means trusting that He will guide me if I start to go the wrong way. Faith means having hope that Christ is with me even when I can’t see what’s in front of me. (Romans 8:24-25)

Thank you to all of you for the love and support you’ve poured out during this season of my life. This unexpected time at home has been very sweet and healing.

With just over a month left at home I will be preparing by saving money, packing, and continuing to spend time with friends and family.

My blog page does not currently show the correct fundraising amount for WRA. I am blessed to have a credit after international expenses, but will need to continue to fundraise for WRA.

If you would like to support basic expenses (ex. food, lodging, travel) donations can be made here: laurenwatts.theworldrace.org. Donations made on my blog can be one time or monthly and are tax deductible.

If you would like to support other expenses (flights to and from Georgia, supplements, toiletries etc.) donations can be made here:

Paypal: paypal.me/lwatts91

Venmo: @lwatts91

Cashapp: $lwatts91

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Praying that you all receive the joy of God’s faithfulness today.