Sea Tumbled Rocks

 

God is our refuge and strength always ready to help us in times of trouble. Psalm 46:1

This past weekend I (Stefanie) attended a MOPS conference to encourage the MOPS leaders in Albania. Before the conference I had some alone time to walk along the beach. Other people on the beach were taking selfies and doing polar plunges while I was staring at the smooth, shiny rocks washing up on the shore.  These rocks did not start out smooth but after many years have been tumbled in the water. Rocks start out jagged and rough. I started thinking about how we start out jagged and rough with bitterness, anger, lack of self control. Even though we start out jagged God is tumbling us to make us perfect and smooth. Through trials we become more patient, loving and kind. No one is free from trials in their life, so know that God is with us tumbling us and shaping us into what He wants us to be! 

 

During this conference we learned that through all we have to be "ALL IN" for Jesus. He wants us to do a polar plunge into all that he has for us. We don't need to do the hokey pokey being in and out of the world and what God wants for us. We laid down our fears and what is holding us back from being all in at the altar. This was a blessed time and full of encouragement from other like minded sisters in Christ! 

God has laid on my heart to go into the maternity ward at the hospital in Durres to speak to new moms and encourage them. Please pray for the door to be opened for me to be able to do this.

Also pray for the Albanian people. Fear is evident here in Albania.We have had our share of challenges over the past three years. From earthquake to a hard lock down and Covid-19 pandemic, and now to the war in Ukraine being way too near to us. People are worried about how to survive. Just this month alone gas has gone up to $10 a gallon and eggs are 40 cents a piece. That really brings a big fear to the people when they only make $300 a month. Please pray for the people of Albania. God also promises in Psalm 34:18-19 The Lord is close to the brokenhearted and saves those who are crushed in spirit.The righteous person may have many troubles,but the Lord delivers him from them all.

 
We are certain that God is the God of Albania and that he is near to us so we continue on with His promises and strength. We are having some changes in our ministry as well. Denisi that worked with Arian helping in Kavaje is no longer with us. Arian is continuing to serve in Kavaje with the church, nursing home and kids club. Pray for Arian for strength and direction. 

 

As for us for our family, we are enjoying the warmer days and sun. We enjoy getting out more as a family! The kids are doing well in school. 

Thank you for all your prayers and support! We appreciate you and thank God for you all!

Serving in His name,

 Arian & Stefanie Kosta

Stateside address: 148 Wolfe St.  Cohutta, Ga 30710

Albanian Address: L3 Rr Egnatia AP:1043 Durres, Albania

email:kkdurres@gmail.com