Prior to coming on STINT I had pretty average Spanish language ability. I took 4 years in high school and one semester in college. I described myself as "conversationally fluent" and always listed it under "special skills" on job applications. For the duration of the various jobs I held since high school, however, I always feared that I would be called upon to use my "special skills". I had learned a lot of Spanish but speaking it was the hardest part. Since coming to Venezuela we have taken language classes and had many opportunities to speak Spanish. I've learned that sometimes you just have to go for it and not be afraid to make mistakes, which I make plenty of every day. I have seen so much growth in my Spanish ability and its been exciting sharing about Christ in a different language. God has answered so many prayers in the midst of conversations in Spanish with students. I have been given words to say in moments I know they could not have come from my own mind.
The most recent challenge with the language has been in beginning discipleship (mentoring) with two girls who do not speak any English. I was initially very intimidated by the prospect of only being able to communicate using my "special skill". Part of me was thinking, what are we going to talk about? What if I run out of words that I know and we have nothing to talk about? I've been reminded continuously throughout the last few months that I can't do anything apart from the strength and grace that Christ gives me. I can't go into a conversation relying on my own abilities. God can do anything and work through language barriers to speak truth and grace into the lives of students and into my life as well. I met with the two girls for the first time last Wednesday and it went far better than I could have imagined. We talked about our lives and how we had come to know Christ. We also talked about all that God was doing in our lives and what we want Him to do in the coming months. God is so good. He has blessed me with so many sweet opportunities to see Him work in the midst of my weaknesses. I'm so thankful for this opportunity to depend more and more on the Lord.
It's so encouraging to hear how God is providing for you when you're anxious about using your "special skills." :-) It reminds me to always depend on Him for everything, always - but especially in those times when I doubt my own abilities or strength. Thanks for sharing and God bless!
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