At Upward Challenge: 4-D Human (2018), a group of around 20 youth gathered at the Community of the Cross to learn about the person and work of the Holy Spirit. They were challenged to look at the world through a spiritual lens in addition to what can be seen and experienced visibly and physically.
Throughout the week much growth took place through worship, teaching, testimony, small groups and space to reflect and respond to what God was doing through the Holy Spirit.
Allison shares:
First time attendee to an Upward Challenge, Allison, shares part of her experience.
The start of each day began with Morning Devotions and Solo Time where for an hour everyone is expected to be silent and alone with the Lord. Everyone is encouraged to “listen to God” during this time.This can feel like a daunting task and feelings of trying to get it right swirl through one’s mind and body. [I was] beginning to feel like a failure as there were many questions and feelings of inadequacy.
Each night there was a different format. The first night was full of testimonies which brought these feelings to the surface. “Why doesn’t God speak to me? I believe in Him but feel sort of abandoned since I don’t share these same experiences as others.”
I was encouraged by a leader to ask God how He wants to speak with me and how He already possibly has been speaking to me. The next day there were still many questions.
By the end of Wednesday night, the Lord had given me an image of myself in a field running into Jesus’ arms and He told me I was just right the way that I am- I didn’t have to change or be something that I wasn’t, I am unique and beloved and He will speak to me and I can trust that it is Him.
I couldn’t stop smiling. The feeling of being able to run and be free coursed throughout my body and I am changed because of this. I am so grateful for the space and teaching and encouragement to grow in hearing God’s voice and in my walk with the Lord.
Sharing and Growth
Despite all the rain, wet tents and clothes, and the tight quarters we all had to share, everyone grew in their relationship and experience with Jesus.
We praise Jesus for how he worked and are thankful to all of the leaders who came from all over the continent, and for all the prayer support that carried us through the week. We know that God will water and grow all of the seeds that were planted here.
Camp Directors Stephanie McClain and Mark Essenburg from Gold Avenue Church, Grand Rapids, MI
Photo Gallery, Upward Challenge 4d Human 2018
A word of thanks
Thank you so much for your support of PRMI’s ministry to youth. God is raising up deep, gifted leaders. Thank you for your partnership with us in this endeavor.
If you would like to give towards this work, designate your gift to Upward Challenge.
