I'm in the midst of assignment week and exams... seven more papers to write and a major exam this Tuesday! But I want to say that God has still been so faithful. And to thank so many for their prayers along the way :). I've been reflecting on this semester that's coming to an end before I want it too... if only it'd stretch a few more weeks to give me time to finish my assignments! It's been the toughest semester yet. But as I reflect I want to thank God - for pushing me out of my comfort zone. This semester has been tough primarily because I've had to study things that I probably would never have chosen to study in my Christian walk. Apologetics is something I've thus far avoided like the plague - and straining my mind with the doctrines of salvation and predestination have never been my cup of tea. Yet I think God knows. The main reason I went to Bible College was because of a desire to deepen my 20 over years of walking with Him. And here I am, faith being confronted, boundaries being pushed, called to persevere... and I realise I want to thank God for all this. Because I've learnt in this semester to surrender my studies to Him, like I have not had the chance to do in the first two semesters, as I was doing well and taking it for granted. I am reminded of the reason I am here, in seminary, and of the awesome privilege it is. I still pause in OT class and thank God for what I am learning from Job, Ecclesiastes, from my lecturer and classmates. And as hard as studying Systematic Theology 2 is, I have realised that though my faith was tested somewhat in the process, it has affected the way I see God in worship - in a good way. I can truly praise Him for His attributes, for His divine work on the cross. When we sang "Blessed be your name" today in worship, I felt I understood more now the context of suffering in which Job said those very words. I have also learnt to trust Him completely, with no "buts" or exceptions. I want what I have learnt to still impact my life and ministry in a real way, and I truly need God's help to continue to keep my focus on Him in my studies, and not on the theology alone. I need His help today and tomorrow, as I study for the exam on Tuesday, and finish all my assignments. I will continue to need His help the rest of my life, to keep me close to Him. I really want to thank my Saviour and Lord, the One who lives, loves and calls us, with so much gratitude in my heart, as this term comes to an end. He who has called us is faithful. Ok, back to studying now. :)