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So I ran out of time with internet and such in Arequipa, but I had been recording updates. I even made a video… but we don’t have the right cables to get it from the camera to my computer. So maybe I’ll post that when I get back to Lima.
Anyway, these next two are from my last two days in Arequipa.
I have a shout out from Cuzco… but that’ll have to wait until tomorrow to post.
Tomorrow we’re off to Machu Picchu at 6AM! If you’ve enjoyed these, like I hope you have, then watch for an update from Machu Picchu.
Hey so I’m traveling for a few days with my friend Italo. I’ve decided to do some audio blogs from various locations… too bad I haven’t got a video camera. Oh well… I hope you enjoy!
Greetings from Arequipa!
Nathan
I sent out an email just yesterday night to all of those on my support list about a specific prayer request for safety. As of late, Lima has been increasingly tense. It’s not a tension of conflict but more of security. I knew before I came to Peru that I was coming to a place that was not as safe as others. I also know that God does not guarantee we will be safe either. But lately things have felt worse than normal and I’m not sure if it’s just paranoia or actual security needs. What I said in my email I will also say again here. This is not cause to worry. I repeat, NOT cause to worry. But it is cause to trust in the Lord, have faith, and pray for his protection. Anyway, I’ve gotten numerous responses to this email from many of you and feel loved, cared for, and encouraged by knowing that I am being placed before the throne of God in prayer.
Today I was reading my Bible and the Lord brought my eyes across a few passages in 1 Peter. I want to share them with you and what was going through my head as I read them.
1 Peter 3:13-17
13Who is going to harm you if you are eager to do good? 14But even if you should suffer for what is right, you are blessed. “Do not fear what they fear; do not be frightened.” 15But 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, 16keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behavior in Christ may be ashamed of their slander. 17It is better, if it is God’s will, to suffer for doing good than for doing evil.
I really felt very strongly as I read this that the Lord is saying something like this to my heart, “You are in my work, and doing good for my kingdom. Who should you fear if you are my servant? Don’t have fear like those who don’t know me. Because even if it is my will that something should happen, I am with you.”
The second passage was 1 Peter 5:6-11
6Humble yourselves, therefore, under God’s mighty hand, that he may lift you up in due time. 7Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you. 8Be self-controlled and alert. Your enemy the devil prowls around like a roaring lion looking for someone to devour. 9Resist him, standing firm in the faith, because you know that your brothers throughout the world are undergoing the same kind of sufferings. 10And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast. 11To him be the power for ever and ever. Amen.
I have begun to feel strongly that what’s going on here is largely spiritual attacks. The enemy that we know we have in this world is working hard to put obstacles in our way, bring us down in motivation, discourage us, and put us on edge so that we cannot complete the good work that we are called to. I love the reminder to be self-controlled and alert, but to also trust in the mighty hand of God because “he cares” for me.
Basically, living in an environment where you don’t feel safe can be exhausting and stressful, but through the prayers of you guys, the encouragement you send, and God and his word, I feel confident and safe in his arms. I have faith that the Lord has placed a barrier of his protection around our house and each one of us.
God is good. Doing his work is good. And I know the Lord is forever with me. It is on those promises and assurances I live day-to-day.
If you did not get my prayer request email and would like to please contact me at nathanbrandes@gmail.com. If you would like to be on my email support list email me the address I should be contacting.
