God doesn’t waste anything, especially an opportunity. I love that Romans 8:28 rings so true when it states that, “In all things God works for the good of those who love him, whohave been called according to his purpose.” Hand in hand with this goes the passage in Philippians 1:6 that says, “And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns.” Many people say that things happen for a reason…this seems to me to be a little too restricting. One occasion can bring about so many results, more than one of which can be productive. My time abroad has shown this to be true. While I have a stated purpose for this two-year venture, God is using all the different opportunities to use and mold me. If I could ask Him for a statement of His purpose for me in this season, I’m sure it would be longer than mine.
One such objective that has been clear to me recently is Him working on my character and interpersonal skills. Living closely with new girls and under new authority has meant learning to navigate interaction with new personalities and everything that comes along with that. It has been humbling to come face to face with differing views and ways of doing things and have to sincerely evaluate my own thoughts and actions.
Before anyone starts to worry, I still love my team and we are living together happily. However, the most valuable thing I’ve learned (or am in the process of learning) is how to stay aware of myself in a conversation in which views are differing. Once defensive walls spring up, it is very difficult to get anywhere productive in a conversation. Instead, I’m being taught how to consciously keep my defenses and pride down, purposefully listening to what is being said in its entirety. Everyone already knows that it is not fun or easy to be humble and admit when you are wrong or to really listen when you think you are right; but, it sure is refreshing when those around you do it and strengthening to relationships when you do it yourself.
Living side by side with other people can be messy. If we let it, though, it can be a beautiful way to learn from others letting iron sharpen iron (Proverbs 27:17).