Monday, November 5, 2012

Bloom where you are planted!

When I (Stefanie) was a child my family moved around a lot because of my dad's job. It seemed as if every time I got comfortable with school and friends, we would move again. My mom would always tell me "bloom where you are planted". I very quickly learned that no matter the circumstances I had to make the best of it. Now we have a scripture above our bed that helps us to remember that God is with us no matter what we are going through. Rejoice always, pray without ceasing, give thanks in all circumstances, for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18. Isn't it amazing that Paul didn't say give thanks in only good circumstances! I realize that the harder you work for God, the more Satan tries to destroy the work that you are doing. Be controlled and alert, your enemy, the Devil walks around like a roaring lion seeking someone to devour. Resist him, stand firm in your faith, knowing that the same sufferings are experienced by your brothers in the world. 1 Peter 5:8-9. I know that we have a very strong prayer support here and around the world that helps us every day! Thank you! 

The Devil will not defeat us! Great things are happening here every day! 

Men's Bible Study
God placed it on Arian's heart to recently start a men's Bible study on Friday mornings. They have started studying about the faithful men of the Bible. For three weeks now 8-10 men have been coming. We are very glad to see Ismail a new man in the church who is from the muslim faith coming to Bible study and asking questions. We pray that God will help Ismail to grow and understand the word of God. 

Sabina, Shpresa, and Lina
Shpresa one of our faithful volunteers at the church has been mentoring two teen girls, Lina and Sabina. On Friday they have a Bible study and a time of fellowship. The girls are confiding in Shpresa and being open to the word of God. This week Sabina started asking about being baptized. If the Lord wills Sabina will be baptized next Sunday. Hallelujah for this blessing! 


Shpresa and Arian Praising God for the Car!
We are very excited about our new (used) car that God has blessed us with! After much praying and searching and with the help of Charlottesville Christian Church and McDonough Christian Church we were able to purchase a van for the ministry of Kavaje. Kavaje is about 25 minutes from Durres and lots of walking from the Nursing home to the children on Wednesday. Now we have a mini van to transport people and get back and forth from Kavaje in the rain and cold! Thank you for your support! It is a great blessing to us! 

We are also very thankful for a group of fourth grade girls lead by Mary Jane Fitzsimons from Fruit Cove Baptist Church in Jacksonville, Flordia who sent hand written letters of encouragement for Klara. Thank you Kensey, Emily, Leighanna, Karley, Abigail, Lindsey, and Izabella! Klara will be excited to know that there are girls her age praying for her in the United States! 

Prayer Requests: 
*Continue to pray for Klara as she is getting treatment in Italy. 
*Pray for continued growth in the church. 
*Pray for Ismail to grow and believe in Christ Jesus as his Lord and Savior. 
*Tani one of our believers who needs a job. 
*Baptism of Sabina. 
*Stefanie's pregnancy (due May 27th). 

Thank you in advance for your prayers! We are also in need of financial support for the ministry. If you or your church would like to support us please email us at kkdurres@gmail.com. 

Serving in His name, 
Arian & Stefanie Kosta

1 comment:

  1. Thank you for the blog, Stef! It feels like we can visit with you in your living room just for a few minutes as you tell us about your new friends and family in the churches there. We celebrate the baptisms and blessings with you. We pray with you for the things on your heart. Sending love and hugs your way from your friends in the States!
    Grace

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