One year ago today I moved to NYC with nothing more than a suitcase and an unpaid internship. I had no place to live, no reliable source of income, and no idea how I was going to make it. If I was going to make it. All I knew was that there was no denying that God asked me to make the move.
I was at coffee with a friend this morning and she asked about my story of moving here. As I started telling her the stories of living on people’s couches for 6 weeks and trying to find a job and an apartment, I realized how crazy I was then. I still can’t believe I did it. My friend called me brave. And that’s how I know God is working through my weakness. I was scared and anxious leading into moving to New York (and sometimes still am about living here), but in the midst of my fear God has shown His strength and faithfulness. He is making me braver than I could have imagined.
In the past year, I’ve moved into my first apartment with strangers who quickly became close friends. I started a job at a restaurant in Times Square. I led a youth group and hosted a life group for the first time. I learned more about the kinds of things I like to do, and those that I don’t. I’ve traveled to Boston, Chicago, Marion, Columbus, Orlando, Nashville, and Knoxville. I walked through Redeemer’s City to City apprenticeship program where I met other 20-somethings in ministry. I had my entire world rocked for the better by the Forge Residency program. And I’ve accepted a new job as Managing Director of Forge New York.
One year ago started the biggest transition of my life. I wouldn’t be who I am today with the experiences of this past year. As I enter into this new transition period – starting a new job, but in the same city – I’m holding on to the same promises of God’s faithfulness that He has shown me all year.
Friends, if you’re anything like me and are scared to take that next step that you feel God is calling you into, I promise it will be worth it. Take the step. Do it afraid. And He will make you brave.
Thanks, New York, for teaching me to STAND. You’re my favorite.