SEND ME RETREAT PRAISES!
Amazing. Simply Amazing...
115 youth came out for an incredible
weekend with God. The students were challenged to press through the difficulties and trials that we all face and will eventually have to face in this life.
Friday night we heard messages from 3 people from Country Faith Church. Saturday morning we were privileged to hear and see Jeremy Erickson tell his story.
It was so gripping at times,
that you could hear a pin drop
in the auditorium. He shared the fact that through this
ordeal, he still struggles with some of the same issues, in fact,
he said, some of his struggles are worse than before.
It was a wake up call to just praise the Lord for all he gives.
Because in these difficulties, Jeremy pointed us to be completely
honest, like David in the Psalms. When you pour out your heart,
there is worship going up to God through it.
On Sunday morning, we heard testimony from 17 different
students and youth leaders of how this retreat open their eyes
and encouraged their hearts though they are going through
hard times.

The theme song for the retreat was a song called,
Praise You In This Storm:
A sample of the lyrics:
I was sure by nowThat You would have reached down
And wiped our tears away Stepped in and saved the day
But once again, I say "Amen", and it's still raining
As the thunder rollsI barely hear Your whisper
through the rain "I'm with you"
And as Your mercy falls I raise my hands
and praise the God who gives and takes away

I'll praise You in this storm And I will lift my hands
For You are who You are No matter where I am
Every tear I've cried You hold in Your hand
You never left my side And though my heart is torn
I will praise You in this storm

I have had to reflect on what storms, if any, I am in.
Honestly, I have gone through nothing, when I compare
what some of our speakers and students are going through.
I am just delighted for the chance to give those who
are going through to share and testify about the faithfulness
of God.

I hope you can be encouraged that even though
you may be going through great difficulties, you can find the
strength to Praise Him in the Storm.