Day 19

Day Nineteen

September 29, 2010

I have to start today by talking about yesterday. At youth group two of my friends came from school! They finally came! And the lesson was about choosing our friends. God knows what we need and when we need it. Also when I was at youth group we got to hear from my friend Alyssa who goes to Highline for running start. A lot of the older kids in our youth group go to Highline and a few go to Green River. She was talking about how The Fishing Project is being brought to their schools, too! Today they had their first prayer meeting after multiple religion-based conversations. One of my other friends told me about how her brother came up to her during lunch saying he was bored. She simply said, "Then go fishing!" So he did! None of this is about me or what I'm doing- it's about the body of Christ working towards one common mission.

So back to today. In band I got to talk to one of the seniors in my class. She is really cool. I'm bringing her chocolate chip cookies as soon as I can work it into my schedule to bake some. And through twisting my words and looking adorable (like always) I got the drum major to agree to buy me a Twinkie! At least I got to show people that even when I'm freezing and marching when I don't want to, I still have a reason to keep a smile on my face- and hopefully give others a reason to smile, too.

I didn't have English today, but I still saw my English friends. The one that I gave the challenge to is sticking with her challenge for the week. I gave her a gospel bracelet with the gospel by colors on it. Her challenge is to wear that every day and go through the meanings of the colors with everyone who asks her about it. Today was the first official day. She has already gone through the bracelet four times! My other English friend decided to start doing the challenge, too! They also have to memorize a verse to go along with each challenge. This week the verse is one of my favorites- 1 Peter 3:15.

In math we had a fire drill and we all had to go outside. I hate strongly dislike math, so I wasn't wearing my prettiest face when we went out. Some of the kids from my Chemistry class were standing next to me while we waited and they asked what was wrong with me? I guess I'm always happy and bubbly when I'm in Chemistry. By the time I made it to my last class- Chemistry- I was happy and bubbly and excited to share God's love again. But why couldn't I be like that in math? Just because I hate strongly dislike a subject doesn't mean I have to be all down and grumpy to everyone else. I'm going to work on that.

Some of my friends and I are talking about starting a prayer group or Christian club on campus. I'm actually not the one that started that idea, either. Just more proof that God doesn't need me! It's strange to say, but I cannot put into words how excited and happy that makes me feel that if I walk off the face of this earth, it won't make a difference. God will still be preached and His love will still be made known.

Now I have a challenge for you: As you read these entries think about your own life. Are you not only taking the opportunities Christ gives you, but are you also going out of your way to CREATE opportunities to share Christ's love? To tell people about the hope you have in Him? Are you willing to do new things that might be out of your comfort zone because you know it's what God wants you to do? This is definitely no small or easy task. But it's worth it.

1 Peter 3:15;

"But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect."

Isaiah 35:3-4;

"Strengthen the feeble hands, steady the knees that give way; say to those with fearful hearts, "Be strong, do not fear; your God will come, He will come with vengeance; with divine retribution He will come to save you."

Psalm 98:2;

"The LORD has made His salvation known and revealed His righteousness to the nations."

Day 18

Day Eighteen

September 28, 2010

I learned my lesson. Last night I ended my day with my Bible and talking to God through prayer. This morning I started my day with my Bible and talking to God through prayer. I asked for His help, because I already learned that I can't do this by my own power.

My friend in English has only skipped one class this whole year! I started a new thing with her this year- new challenges every month. These are hard challenges, like respecting the parental units, no cussing/ inappropriate language, and treating everyone with kindness and compassion- even if you don't like them. She even agrees to follow through with these insane requests! God is working in the hearts of His people.

In History I was one of five people to have completed the homework. I'm not a goody-goody, but it's a great testimony to show people that you can do what's right, even if everybody else doesn't. In our History books we are learning about Ancient Rome and the start of Christianity. I have to be discerning when I read about Jesus Christ in the history book because it isn't always accurate. Hopefully this will open doors to straighten out any misconceptions about who God is and what He wants from our lives.

Youth group is tonight! I made sure to invite everyone again, but it's up to them to come or not. I'm not being too forceful, but I'm not a jellyfish either :).

2 Corinthians 10:5;

"We demolish arguments and every pretension that sets itself up against the knowledge of God, and we take captive every thought to make it obedient to Christ."

Colossians 1:28-29;

"We proclaim Him, admonishing and teaching everyone with all wisdom, so that we may present everyone perfect in Christ. To this end I labor, struggling with all His energy, which so powerfully works in me."

Day 17

Day Seventeen

September 27, 2010

Today was so long! I finished some of my homework while in English. After playing "1,2,3- UGLY!" on Friday, I decided to be a better example today. I did my work and stayed focused.

Okay guys, I have to be honest. The Fishing Project is so hard. Today I pretty much zoned out and didn't try. I didn't really start any conversations with others because all that I could think about was falling asleep. I didn't start my day by reading my Bible. I was so selfish today and didn't stop once to think if I was doing what God wants me to be doing. We aren't even done with September and I have already started to put my tiredness, my boredom, my "needs" (wants) before God's needs. I am a horrible, horrible person! I am no one to look up to, no one special, nothing of importance. Today I learned that God doesn't need me and He's not going to be the one keeping me focused- He can always find somebody else to do my job. It's up to me to keep God and His priorities as my priorities. Only through Him am I worth anything.

I guess the moral of the story is that nothing worth anything is easy. You really have to work at it every day. One wrong move, like forgetting to read my Bible/ pray first thing in the morning, can ruin everything thereafter. If you choose to serve God and follow Him with all of your heart, you had better be ready for every possible obstacle to interfere. The Christian life isn't the easiest life, but it's the best life! One thing's for sure- tomorrow is going to be different.

John 16:33;

"I have told you these things, so that in Me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world."

Philippians 3:12-14;

"Not that I have already obtained all this, or have already been made perfect, but I press on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me. Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Day 16

Day Sixteen

September 24, 2010

I get to write this on Monday, three days later, because right after school I got to go to a friend's house and onto our youth Pastor's house for a sophomore dinner. Let's see if I can remember my amazing day serving God...

Classes seemed really short. In English I didn't do my work. I decided it was minor enough that I could take it home and finish. (I still have a whole week to accomplish an assignment that will talk two hours tops.) So instead, Amanda and I played a game called "1,2,3- UGLY!" with the people sitting around us. It's where you all get together in front of a camera and you say "1,2,3- UGLY!" When you say 'ugly', you make an ugly face and take a picture. Even though some people might tell us we were wrong to do that and we were wasting our class time, we got to strengthen our relationships, have something to laugh about, and left a good taste in the people's mouths because we didn't shove the gospel down their throats every day. I began the year stating my views openly and honestly, started conversations focused on their opinions, so now I'm ready to be there if they have any questions.

I noticed some really shy kids in a few of my classes. I learned their names and now whenever I see them in the halls or in my classes I make it a point to say hi to them and acknowledge them by name. It's one thing to say hello, but remembering their names? That's hard.

Matthew 5:13;

"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled by men."

Matthew 6:19-21;

"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

Day 15

Day Fifteen

September 23, 2010

I have only been going to TJ for 15 days and it already seems like forever. I'm pretty sure that's a good thing.

In English we are still talking about hero quests. I forgot to read my Bible before I left the house this morning, so I brought my big Bible to school today and read it during our work time. I was reading Acts 22 which is pretty much a summary of Paul's conversion. What I'm learning in English can be found in the Bible! Paul went on a "hero quest" when he was on the road to Damascus. That was my smile moment for the day. I am still praying for all of my friends in that class.

Even though I hate strongly dislike math, today was the first day I really got to shine God's light during class. We had gotten our tests back and were partnered up to correct/answer questions about our work. I didn't necessarily go through the gospel with anyone through words, but I got to make some new friends that usually sit in the back of the classroom. God blessed me with ample math skills, so I got to help the other kids understand their problems (in math). And I realized that some of my classmates in one class also have other classes with me! I'm beginning to notice the people around me more.

There is one girl that I have in two different classes but I haven't had the courage to go up to her yet. I still get really scared when I meet new people. So I have kept her in my prayers and I'm asking God to help start a conversation. I'm flawed in so many ways, but when I devote myself wholeheartedly to God, He helps me do things I didn't know that I could.

Job 11:7-9;

"Can you fathom the mysteries of God? Can you probe the limits of the Almighty? They are higher than the heavens- what can you do? They are deeper than the depths of the grave- what can you know? Their measure is longer than the earth and wider than the sea."

Psalm 33:20;

"We wait in hope for the LORD; He is our help and our shield."

Day 14

Day Fourteen

September 22, 2010

Today was "Meet Me at the Pole" day where students all around the country met at their flagpole to pray for their schools. I was stuck on Pacific Highway in traffic, so I wasn't able to participate this year.

I finally remembered the candy bar for my friend in English! She's also in my advisory and we were eating her candy when one of her friends sat down next to us. I was reminding her about a sophomore dinner at our Pastor's house this weekend when her friend looked at her and said, "You go to church?" I don't know if it was because Amanda and I were right next to her, but she smiled and said very proudly, "yeah! I go every Sunday and now I'm gonna go to their youth group." She was going to come to youth group yesterday, but at the last minute she had to change plans. But don't worry! I'm making sure she comes next week! We talked about church and what it means to us during advisory. Then my friend took my iPod and listened to Hillsong with her other friend. Her favorite song? Hosanna!

In History we were reading about Rome and how tax collectors and the government cheated people from their money. I know that's accurate because the Bible talks about Zacchaeus! He was a deeply hated tax collector, but Jesus wanted to have dinner at his house anyone. I knew that one of the disciples was also a tax collector, but I couldn't remember who, so I asked the two guys next to me who I talked to before about AWANA. Another kid in the class overheard us and he asked (again) if I go to church. We had a small conversation about reading the Bible and how when he read it he didn't understand it. I told him I agree! The Bible is hard to read! But that's why you study it and learn the writing styles of the authors. The passage might talk about a mustard seed, but in truth it's talking about us. Praise God that this week is more than half way over!

Romans 1:16a;

"I am not ashamed of the gospel, because it is the power of God for the salvation of everyone who believes..."

Matthew 17:20;

"...I tell you the truth, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, 'Move from here to there; and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you."

Day 13

Day Thirteen

September 21, 2010

I love Tuesdays! I have to get to church, so unfortunately I can't go into much detail today. I am proud to say that The Fishing Project is making its way into Highline Community College! My friend texted me at lunch saying how she was complimenting and smiling everywhere. A small start that can make a big impact.

Today is youth group. I finally got the candy bar for my friend in English. She is coming to youth group tonight! As well as another friend from that class. Christ's Church youth group is gaining a great reputation in my English class.

I was talking with these girls while working and we ended up talking about the gospel. We talked about my colorful bracelet and one of my friends took the color card that explains everything. I asked her what the colors mean and she could explain every one. Not in much depth, but I was insanely impressed! I explained a bit more to her. She told me about when she devoted her life to Christ, I shared a bit of my testimony, and our friend next to us told us about her life.

In History class Amanda got to share the gospel with a girl sitting next to her! That is two gospel-talks in less than one hour! God is amazing! I have so much more that I would love to share with you guys as encouragement. God is on our side! However, I have to get to youth group so you will just have to wait until tomorrow. Remember, patience is one of the fruits of the Spirit.

Colossians 4:5-6;

"Be wise in the way you act toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. Let your conversation be always full of grace, seasoned with salt, so that you may know how to answer everyone."

Galatians 5:22-23;

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."

Day 12

Day Twelve

September 20, 2010

I am actually writing this entry one day late because yesterday I went right after school with some friends to the Puyallup Fair! But I will get to that in a bit.

School was somewhat uneventful and dull. We did our work in our classes and when I wasn't working I was reading my book. Today is one day where I will not talk about what happened at school :D.

I have three amazing friends and the four of us make the "FAWM 4." FAWM stands for Fearfully And Wonderfully Made (Ps 139:14). We decided that all four of us would go to the fair together. Unfortunately, our schedules are all jam packed from school, sports, work, drivers ed., youth group, Bible study, AWANA, and family! The only day that we could go to the fair together simply did not exist. One of us couldn't go so for the night we were the FAWM 3.

Our goal is to share God's love wherever we go- including the fair! We decided to compliment at least one person before we go on every ride. We ended up complimenting at least five people :D. The first compliment was to a sweet lady who came with her brother. We were in line for the Tilt a Whirl when I noticed her hat. She had on a baseball cap with the tag still on it that said "C.I.A.- Christians In Action." It turns out that they are both firm believers in Jesus Christ! We had a long conversation about how awesome God is and how we want to share that with everyone!

As the night went on we made so many friends just by complimenting and/or talking to the people we were standing in line with. School is not the only place to stay alert- we were able to share the gospel while waiting in line for the fair rides.

Ephesians 6:18;

"And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the saints."

Colossians 3:12;

"Therefore, as God's chosen people, holy and dearly loved, clothe yourselves with compassion, kindness, humility, gentleness and patience."

Day 11

Day Eleven

September 17, 2010

Thank goodness it's Friday! The whole day my main focus was getting out of school and onto a youth group retreat. I'm rushing to fill out today's events so I can make it to church before everyone leaves!

My friend in English was telling me about how she got to share with her friends about her "positive influence" yesterday. She makes me smile :D. We started to play a game called "never have I ever" where you say things that you have never done and if somebody else playing has done what you said, they put down a finger. We start holding up ten of our fingers and the last person to hold up any amount of fingers wins. By the end everyone decided that if they want to get Amanda and me out they "have to include church!" That is such a testimony to be able to talk to your classmates and say that you haven't fallen into the temptation of the world. That you CAN choose to do the right thing, instead of necessarily the popular thing.

In History we were talking about city states and making sure that we know what they are. At the end of class our teacher asked random people to tell him what a city state is in their own words. Then he would ask if they felt good about their answer. He said he wants us to say, "I feel good about it because I know it's true." I totally related that to the Bible as soon as I heard it. Comparing it to Greek mythology- the story of their gods are not always believable. A woman with snakes for hair? Maybe in Monsters Inc. But with the Bible we know that what we read is true for so many reason! Everything is logical, it's scientifically accurate, nobody has been able to prove the Bible wrong, and the Bible verifies itself.

I could go on and on about what God has showed me today, but I have to be leaving for the retreat soon. Always be thinking of God's plan and how you can glorify Him. It's so hard to stay focused, but it's the best decision ever!

Psalm 1:1-2;

"Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of sinners or sit in the seat of mockers. But his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night."

2 Timothy 3:16;

"All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in righteousness,"

Day 10

Day Ten

September 16, 2010

Praise God for this Washington rain! I love waking up and just throwing on jeans and a sweatshirt. I got to share the gospel today through my sweatshirt. My sweatshirt says "LOVE" with a dove for the "v." When you look closely on the "L" it says "for God is" (then the big LOVE) and on the "e" it says "1 John 4:8." For the tired people reading this it says "For God is love. 1John 4:8." My sweatshirt started a small conversation and some smiles with my friends in my English class.

My English teacher gives us work to do, but we finish our work on our own time, so we talk and visit most of the class. We started talking about 2012. We were talking about how some of us would be mad if the end of the world really is in 2012 because we would have spent our whole lives in school without graduating. It was a quick conversation, but I added my input that the Bible says that nobody knows the day or the hour, so if everybody is sure that it's December 21, 2012 or whenever they say, then it can't be. The Bible hasn't been proved wrong yet, so I don't expect it to lead me to a lie just because the Mayan's calendar ended. We ended the conversation by deciding that the Mayans got tired of writing down more days. Our teacher was laughing back at his desk.

My friend that sits in front of me (who still hasn't skipped classes :D) was playing music on her phone. As different songs would play she would skip through to make sure that they were "Amy appropriate." She made me laugh so much but I really appreciated how she would care enough for my opinions to censor through her playlist. God has not only put me in their lives for a reason, but the "good influence" is taking affect after just ten days! I find it hard to believe that if I came on too strong with my faith and forced it on her, that she would still be censoring her music for me. God gave me patience and love to approach every new person in a kind, gentle way. Stick to your beliefs and values while being respectful and loving to those around you and they give you respect in return! I love all of my second period friends.

That was my "smile moment" for the day, but that wasn't my only opportunity to shine God's light. Like I said a few days ago, smiling and talking to other people is one of the simplest ways to show others that you care. In every class I found a way to compliment somebody, smile at people, and ask them about their day. I have made so many new friends just by turning around to the person sitting next to me and asking them about their day.

1 John 4:8;

"Whoever does not love does not know God, because God is love."

Matthew 24:36, 44;

"No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father. So you also must be ready, because the Son of Man will come at an hour when you do not expect Him."

Day 9

Day Nine

September 15, 2010

My dad usually gives me a ride to school, but today it just wouldn't work, so I got up extra early and my mom gave me a ride to my friend Amanda's house. I got there around 6:15 and I hadn't read my Bible yet. So what I did was I took along my big study Bible and sat on Amanda's couch reading until she woke up. This was really a small thing at the time, but God uses little details for big things.

I got to school and had a really boring morning. Band was boring. Advisory was boring. Math is just no fun in general. Then I got to History. I sit next to two guys and they were talking about going to AWANA tonight. I go to AWANA at my church! If you've never heard of it, AWANA is a program that stand for "Approved Workmen Are Not Ashamed" and it basically teaches kids how to study the Bible and the main focus is memorizing Bible verses. I got to talk to two random guys today about the Bible!

Then came lunch. I love food! At the table I sit at almost everyone goes to church. Today three of us were wearing shirts from activities we do at our churches. Well one of the girls at the table couldn't find her water bottle. She asked, "Where's my water bottle?" and without thinking I replied, "I stole it!" (I didn't actually take it.) The girl is not a Christian, but she knows that I am. I thought and added, "Actually, no I didn't. God doesn't want me to steal anyway. And I lied about it! I'm not being very good today at all!" Then I laughed. The other girl looks at me laughing and says, "Yeah! Read the 13 commandments!" A few of us at the table start laughing and I tell her that there are only 10 commandments, not 13. Then I take out my study Bible (that God told me to bring this morning!) and tried to find them. I couldn't. So Amanda pulls out her Bible and starts looking it up! The girl said something along the lines of, "Wow! You guys are really into this!" We end up finding the ten commandments and I read through them. I explained some, too. Then the girl asked me a lot of questions like how could we possible keep all of the commandments? God gave me the opportunity to go through the gospel color by color with her. I got to explain that none of us are perfect and we all deserve hell, but the good news is that Jesus Christ paid for our sins and by believing in Him we can go to heaven! It was a very friendly, open conversation and we all left with smiles- mine was the biggest.

Acts 4:12;

"Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to men by which we must be saved."

Ephesians 2:10;

"For we are God's workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do."

Deuteronomy 5:19;

"You shall not steal"

Leviticus 19:11;

"Do not steal. Do not lie. Do not deceive one another."

"It's one thing to be acquainted with Jesus. It's another thing to uphold Him as the Lord of your life..."

Mary A. Kassian

"Girls Gone Wise"

Day 8

Day Eight

September 14, 2010

The whole point of The Fishing Project is showing the people around us that God loves them and that the best decision they can ever make is to live for Him. God has given me some amazing friends in English class where every day I get to talk about my faith with them. I owe one girl a candy bar and she still hasn't skipped any classes since I first gave her the challenge! Today we took a test in that class and after we had finished that same girl wrote me a really sweet note about how she's glad I'm her "positive influence." God is really working! I again got to invited everyone around me to our church youth group and I hope some of them come tonight.

While the girl in front of me was writing me the note, Amanda was sitting next to me with her Bible open to Proverbs. I had out my new Bible study book, "Girls Gone Wise in a world gone wild." The girl in front of me took my book to look at what it was about, so I whipped out my own Bible and started reading that. Then she handed back my "Girls Gone Wise" book and took my Bible! She turned to Psalm 23 and told me it's her favorite. Obviously she knows that God is the right choice. Hopefully God can use me to show her what truly living for Him means in everyday life. I love my English class!

At lunch I also got to talk to the people at my table about church. I found out that one of my friends goes to the church my family went to before Christ's Church! It was really encouraging to see other Christians at school.

Wherever I go I love to share God's love by complimenting people. That really helps me get the focus off of myself and onto encouraging and lifting up others. Today was a little strange, though. I saw one girl that I couldn't think of any way to compliment her! In truth I didn't like how she dressed or looked or acted around others, but she really looked like someone who could use some encouragement. After talking to one of my friends about this, he told me to simply say, "You look like someone that Jesus loves!" I plan on telling her that the next time I see her :D.

Acts 13:47;

"For this is what the Lord has commanded us: 'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth'"

Philippians 2:3-4;

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."

Day 7

Day Seven

September 13, 2010

Today. Was. Amazing. God. Is. Amazing. I got up on time. I woke up by reading my Bible. We had 2% milk. I made it to school on time. There are so many reasons to praise God every day but we always focus on what went wrong! WE WENT WRONG! So today I focused on praising God for all of the little things.

Praise God that the girl from English class hasn't skipped any classes since I gave her the challenge. I owe her a chocolate bar. Praise God that she's going to continue that this week!

Praise God for my English teacher. We are reading about medieval knights and their "Hero Quest," when they discover who they are. These journeys are divided into 8 different parts. Today we got an assignment to write about our own "Hero Quest" and relate it to an experience in our lives. Amanda sits next to me. We looked at each other and BAM! We are writing about how we came to know, love, trust, and serve our Lord and Savior. I'm going to finish that up as soon as I finish writing this entry. Then my teacher will read it and understand why God is so important in my life.

Praise God that even though I hate strongly dislike math, I'm good at it and I am totally prepared for my test this Friday. Praise God for my History teacher. I sat down in class today and started telling him about how I watched the movie "Expelled" with Ben Stein in it, because my History teacher does a good Ben Stein impression. I told him about how the movie talks about scientists everywhere are who are being fired because they think that Intelligent Design (ID) could be a logical possibility. My teacher, though not specifically taking one side or another, half-way said in a regretful tone that most of the people in that very room probably don't consider Intelligent Design (a theory that the world was created by a 'higher being') could be true.

Praise God that I only spilled a little of my yogurt on myself at lunch today instead of all of it! Praise God that I got to talk to one of my best friends about life with a Biblical perspective at lunch. Praise God that French and Chemistry were short and easy and that I got to read "Forgotten God" by Francis Chan in class. Praise God that I have made so many friends already. Praise God that so far nobody has disregarded me as some religious freak. Praise God that I have yet to have a bad experience because of my outspokenness of my faith.

"As citizens of this kingdom, we are called to live in a way that reflects the reality of the kingdom of God. When we become overly concerned about our appearance, our spiritual reputation, our coolness, and our acceptance, we are living as citizens of this world rather than as ambassadors."

-Francis Chan

"Forgotten God"

Psalm 147:1;

"Praise the LORD. How good it is to sing praises to our God, how pleasant and fitting to praise Him!"

Day 6

Day Six

September 10, 2010

God knows what is best for us. He knows what we need and when we need it. God provides for us. Today that came in the form of a Friday. Today was my fifth day of going to school and it's already my second Friday!

Today we had an assembly and all of our classes, so each class was about 40 minutes long. That meant that we had little time to talk and most of our time was actually working. (Working? In a public school? Who would have thought?! :D) But I still have plenty of reasons to praise God for today. God doesn't waste any day He gives us.

My friend in English hasn't skipped any classes as far as I'm aware since I gave her the challenge. Every time I'm in class with her we talk and she sounds excited to come to youth group when she can. In History I read my Bible with my free time again. I got to talk to a few kids around me about how I go to church and how a few of them do, too. In French and History we had to talk in front of the class, so I volunteered to go first whenever I could! God gives me strength to be confident in who I am.

Although today might not be as much to write about as days before, it's still important. I was able to plant seeds the first few days with my conversations and confidence. Now I just need to make sure that I don't give up, but keep my focus on God and on His plans for me. It's important to make sure that you act the same way that you say you live. I don't know about you, but hypocrites are the first people I start to disregard. Six days in and I still feel terrific.

Joshua 1:8-9;

"Do not let this Book of the Law depart from your mouth; meditate on it day and night, so that you may be careful to do everything written in it. Then you will be prosperous and successful. Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be terrified; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go."

1 Corinthians 3:7;

"So neither he who plants nor he who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow."

Day 5

Day Five

September 9, 2010

These first few days have gone amazingly fantastic! God has been able to use my presence in such awesome ways! Absolutely none of this is for me or for my praise; this is all for God the Father and sharing His love and His compassion to everyone I meet. I really hope this is encouraging you to share your faith at school, at work, or around town!

I have to say that today was not as remarkable as the first three. Teachers have started to transition into the whole "now let's actually learn something" mode which leaves less room for conversation. However, God is not done working because of my teachers doing their job! That just sounds ridiculous! God works through us in ways other than just conversations. Most of my classmates know by know that I am a follower of Christ and that I take the Bible very seriously. I don't always associate myself with religion because 1) there are a lot of religions out there, 2) the word "religion" freaks a lot of people out, and 3) I have more of a relationship with God rather than a religion. So if I'm not always talking about my faith, how can I evangelize in my school?

Titus 2:7-8;

"In everything set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us."

I can spread the gospel by doing what is right. Today when my classmates were being loud and chatty and unfocused, I finished my work. I turned in my assignments on time. Not because I'm better than them, because I'm not, but I did what was right. My actions and how I treat others can tell people a lot about who God is, because they know that I live for God and the Holy Spirit lives inside of me. THAT is why I'm almost always smiling. THAT is why I love complimenting people. THAT is why I choose to be a good student. THAT is why I have good grades. It's because I choose to live in such a way that God is glorified through my actions. I don't always succeed, but God is forgiving and He is always there to help me. I have had at least four girls say to me in the past month, "When I grow up, I want to be like you!" Some of the girls in my English class don't call me Amy, they call me their "good example." I challenged one of the girls not to skip any of her classes for the rest of the week. If she succeeds, I'll give her a candy bar :). Sharing God's love can just be showing that you care for those around you. God is teaching me a lot so far about how willing people are to listen to you when you approach them the right way.

Even though I'm just a sophomore in high school, God can still use me. It's only five days into the school year and God has already given us amazing results. Just think, if I can have this many conversations and this many opportunities to share my faith and God's love, how much can happen in a full year? This is no small project! This is a mind-changing lifestyle that will change how you live forever. I only have one life to share this good news to the unsaved, and I want to use every opportunity given to me. My prayer is that you will join me on this project and that God will use you to reach those around you.

1 Timothy 4:12;

"Don't let anyone look down on you because you are young, but set an example for the believers in speech, in life, in love, in faith, and in purity."

Matthew 5:16;

"In the same way, let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your Father in heaven."

Day 4

Day Four

September 8, 2010

Today did not start the way I thought it should. I usually wake up around 5:45. My alarm didn't go off, so today I woke up at 6:35. I had to get ready for school, so I didn't have time to read my Bible, which is number one on my daily priority list. When I got my cereal, we were all out of 2% milk and I had to drink non-fat which is disgusting because I need my fat. I ended up spilling this nasty milk on me so I had to change my shirt when I was already running late. We got out the door late and hit almost every red light. I walked into class just as the bell was ringing. I was tired, hadn't read my Bible yet, my prayers so far had been quick and urgent and all about me, my cereal was gross, I spilled all over myself, and I was running late. Not a good way to start the day.

I was in band when I started thinking, Satan knows my plan. He knows how I want to preach Christ in my school. Satan is trying to stop me. He is trying to give me a bad day so I won't be nice to others. BAM! Sniper no sniping! I prayed that God would give me strength and help me move on like it was a normal day. In advisory I whipped out my travel-sized Bible and did my reading for the morning. In history we had to fill out a work sheet about 7 healthy habits and for one of the questions we had to write a positive statement to ourselves. After we filled out the work sheet our teacher asked us each to share one thing from our paper with the rest of the class. It was my turn and I got to say in front of EVERYONE, "My positive statement says, 'I am fearfully and wonderfully made by God who loves me and has the perfect plan for me. That's found in Psalm 139:14, John 3:16, and Ephesians 2:10.'" I got some impressed "ooh"s and "aaah"s and one kid blurted out, "Are you one of them church girls?" I smiled and said, "Why yes, yes I am." Then came my friend Amanda's turn and she quoted Philippians 4:13, "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength." The teacher said she was the fourth person to say that today!

Praise God that students are rising up and standing for their faith! Praise God that He turned my bad morning into a terrific day! I finished my Bible reading after I said my positive statement, and then a lot of the students around me commented on my cool travel-sized Bible. So far in these three days that I have gone to school I have talked to kids in Band, English, History, French, Chemistry, Advisory, and lunch about my faith and talking to them about their church and beliefs. I am not alone! And maybe through my courage, other students will be more bold about THEIR faith! God is so powerful and I never thought that any of this would happen. When you tell God your plans and ask for His help, everything turns out WAY BETTER than you will ever expect! All glory and honor and praise to God.

1 Timothy 4:13, 16;

"Until I come, devote yourself to the public reading of Scripture, to preaching and to teaching. Watch your life and doctrine closely. Persevere in them, because if you do, you will save both yourself and your hearers."

1 Corinthians 15:58;

"Therefore, my dear brothers, 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."

Day 3

Day Three

September 7, 2010

It's official- Tuesday is my favorite day of the week. I don't have math class or chemistry, I spend most of my classes with one of my best friends, and I have youth group after school. I can invite my classmates to youth group!

I was in English today and I have to admit, the girls sitting around me were kind of scary looking. They had on heavy makeup, some dyed their hair unusual colors, and I heard foul language. Each girl finished, or almost finished, their project, but they would say things like, "Wow! Mine looks bad", or try to switch projects with someone else. These were not people I was used to hanging around. They were really intimidating to me. Then I got to thinking... I was prejudging these people! I took how they look and began using that to assume their character. I knew nothing about them besides a few bad words. I prayed a quick prayer that God would help me make friends with them. By the end of the class I had invited everyone around me to a concert at Youth Group tonight. One girl had called her mom. We started talking and I found out that the one who called her mom actually goes to church and listens to bands I know, like Hillsong and Skillet. We talked more about church and God and our youth group. Her mom wouldn't let her come tonight, but I didn't want her to lose interest. I mentioned my previous boyfriend, Blake, and let it slip that he died a few months ago. (I forgot to tell her that he was a $2 doll I got at Claire's.) I told her that if she wants to know how Blake died, she has to find a way to come to youth group! That motivates her. THEN, once I knew she wants to come, I told her about how the best way to get parental permission is by respecting your parents. I mentioned how she probably wouldn't be able to pull that off. THAT got her motivated to prove me wrong. Some people might not agree with my tactic, but it works!

Throughout the day I wasn't able to start God-centered conversations in all of my classes, but I was able to spread God's love. This is so simple and absolutely everyone can do it! Say hello to people you know and just ask them how their day is- it's that easy! Let them know that you care. Smiling is one of my favorite things to do, too, and smiles are a quicker way to let someone know you care. Watch your actions, because if someone gets a bad impression of you they can create a bad image of Christians in general.

Philippians 2:3-4;

"Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests, but also to the interests of others."

Day 2

Day Two

September 3, 2010

Today was my first day of classes at Thomas Jefferson! This is my fifth new school where I only know a few people. I am no stranger to first impressions. First impressions tell people a lot about who you are, so I really wanted to make this one count- not just for me, but for the God I serve. I wore a shirt that has a biblical message on it. First impressions aren't always about what you say. A lot of times in a classroom you don't have opportunities to talk, so you have to use your actions. After realizing this, I made it a point to smile in all of my classes. I introduced myself to anyone I could. Last year at Decatur one thing that I learned was how much a simple smile can change somebody's day.

My fifth period class is French class. I have a really cool teacher who asked us to go around the room and tell the class our name and a little bit about ourselves. What a perfect way to praise God in public! For my turn I stood up, smiled, and said, "My name is Amy. I'm a Christian and I love Jesus!" Yeah, spreading the gospel is that easy.

When teachers decided to give me self-evaluations or get-to-know-you sheets I got excited. They always ask what's important to you. BAM! I wrote, "God is my everything." Word snapshot? No problem! "Follow Jesus." On one sheet I had to write a "positive statement to myself" so I put down, "I am fearfully and wonderfully made by God who loves me and has the perfect plan for me." God blessed me so much today and made it really easy to keep my focus on Him.

Today I was definitely not perfect and in a few classes I got so nervous around a bunch of strangers that I didn't smile, I didn't get as excited to fill out papers, I even judged some of the kids I was sitting near. I have no right to judge others. Even still, my focus was not on just surviving the day, my goal for today was well accomplished- living a life pleasing to God and sharing the gospel everywhere I went.

Romans 12:11;

"Never be lacking in zeal, but keep your spiritual fervor, serving the Lord."

Psalm 40:9;

"I proclaim righteousness in the great assembly; I do not seal my lips, as you know, O LORD."

Psalm 139:14;

"I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well"

Day 1

Day One

September 2, 2010

Well, I cheated. Today was technically the first day of school, but I didn't go. However, God is God and He doesn't have to follow rules, He creates them. So God started using my presence to share the gospel in TJ before the school year began. How can this happen, you ask? It's called "Band Camp." I'm not a nerd, but I do play flute and TJ band wants to march this year at our football games. Before school started we had band camp for four days from 9-1. I wish my parents would have let me slept in, but God had a purpose for it nonetheless.

At band camp, even though I only knew two people, I didn't let my uncomfortableness get in the way of me being me. Before I knew it I was talking to the people around me about how I got a black eye, which led to talking about our youth group Montana trip, which led to talking about my faith in Jesus Christ. Most of the kids kept their focus on how I gave a bloody nose and got a black eye on a mission trip, but one kid went further. He told me about how he read the whole Bible, was raised as a Protestant, and we talked about religion on the second day of band camp. Yes, we had some differences of opinion. Yes, I used scripture to back up my way of thinking. No, he didn't have in-depth explanations for everything he believed. Yes, God had a plan for band camp.

By the end of that practice I had given him my phone number and we had a texting conversation that lasted the next three days and then off and on until school officially started. You can use anything, even texting, to share the gospel! I got to go through the bracelet with him, what my purpose in life is, a bit about who Jesus was, and just got to know the kid I met... at band camp. He told me about his life and I was there to listen. I made sure to invite him to youth group where there are people way more suited to answer his questions and help him through hard times. God definitely had a reason for sending me to band camp whether I wanted to go or not.

Romans 13:12;

"The night is nearly over; the day is almost here. So let us put on the armor of light."

1 Peter 3:15;

"But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,"