While I have been homeschooled since kindergarten, two years ago, my younger sister started attending a small Christian school. My mom liked it so much that she highly encouraged me to go. So I did.

Today, two things amaze me: how fast a year went by and how much the Lord shaped me each day.

When I was younger, I was very dramatic, self-confident, and talkative—not at all shy. But as I got a little older and different things happened in my life, I became less so, which meant I would find it difficult to be bold in telling others about Jesus.

However, this past school year has stretched me in so many ways. It has humbled me, helped me grow in my prayer life, challenged my faith, and taught me to put others first, be bold, and depend on God at all times! Each day, I started asking God to use me in His work, and He would. Sometimes it came in the form of a letter. Other days, He would lead me to the right person at exactly the right time. What amazed me the most was the times my mouth spoke while I was still thinking (the Holy Spirit speaking for me, telling me what to say right when needed!

A few weeks ago, we had our awards banquet at school. Sadly, for the five students in my age group, this was their last one. Please join me in praying that the seeds planted in their hearts will continue to grow, that they will be shining lights in their new schools, and that their families will also accept Jesus into their hearts. Also, please pray for me that in this new school year, I may never forget my new role as a big sister to each student, which is important because the oldest has a lot of responsibility in Thai culture.

I wish I could tell you in detail everything the Lord has been teaching me and hear your stories, too! But for now, I would like to finish by saying that while I do not know where you are, I do know that God has placed you there for a very special purpose, even if you do not see it yet. And please know that you are in my prayers.

“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain” (1 Corinthians 15:58 NIV).

May the Lord continue to bless you in your missionary work!

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