4/1/2019 7:11:36 PM

Hi everyone!
This is my first update since I accepted my spot on this trip last summer. I first want to thank EVERYONE that has prayed, encouraged, donated, shared posts, and simply asked how the process has gone. Every prayer, dollar, share, and word of affirmation has gotten me to the point that I am today. I cannot express how thankful I am to have such amazing and supportive friends and family. It is honestly overwhelming at times to know how many people are interested in this upcoming chapter of my life.

God has been overwhelmingly evident in every single step of the way, especially over the past 48 hours. He has moved people and conversations in ways I never would have dreamed. He has moved hearts to give so generously and has gotten me fully funded, literally overnight. Above all else, he has shown me that HE is in control. This is one of the first times I feel that I have truly handed something over to the Lord, physically, financially, emotionally, and spiritually, and He is showing me that HE PROVIDES. Every moment that I had an ounce of doubt, fear, discouragement, or question enter my mind, He quickly said, "Trust me." By trusting in Him, here I am. I'm fully funded, my flights are booked, I have most of the gear needed, and I have more confidence in the Lord and His power than ever before. What a good feeling it is to know that I am NOT in control.

To anyone who is on some type of journey, whether a new job, new school, new city, new relationship, or even just a seemingly average chapter of life, I am telling you to trust HIM. Give every part of yourself to Him. Give up your control. He is way better at it. Tell Him that He owns every part of you, your body, your money, your relationships, your job, your home, and your life. He can do with them as He wishes. You will not be disappointed.
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." - Proverbs 3:5-6

My prayer going forward is that the Lord would humble me and I would put him and those around me above myself, that I would have patience and confidence in him as he works through my team in Costa Rica, and that I would never forget to be thankful for all he has done. "So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness." - Colossians 2:6-7

Thank you all again! I will keep you updated as my departure gets closer.
In Christ,
Lauren Collins