Support Letter

     Hello, my name is Cody Badgwell. I'm a resident of Tuscaloosa, Alabama, where I was born and raised. You are receiving this letter because you expressed interest in furthering the ministry of God to the nation. To better understand what I'm talking about, let me explain further.
     For as long as I can remember, I've had a huge passion for people. I grew up in a very diverse community, so I never saw racism or discrimination in any way. Though I'm sure those exist, I always overlooked it. My heart wasn't focuses on the color of skin or the morals of ethnicity; I was focused on seeing people for who they really are- a child of God.
     This leads to the mission God has called me on. I applied for an internship with a ministry called City Student Missions (CSM). They have sites in major cities all over the United States. The city I've applied for is Chicago, Illinois. While there, I will have the chance to work alongside the CSM staff, prepare for teams from all over the world, and then show these teams the city, cultural areas, and serve alongside them in the fields.
     Your prayers are a crucial part of your support. Monetary funds help, but prayers are my main source of provision. Once I'm in Chicago, I'll be getting paid, as this is a paid internship/job. My only source of help is for flights. If you want to contribute in any way, please send me an email at cbadgwell@gmail.com.
     Thank you so much for your interest to support this vision God has given me. Your prayers and support means the world to me.

Peace in Jesus

     I heard a quote in a movie once, and it still sticks with me to this day.

God has the power to show you who God is. 

When you hear something like that, you're instantly inspired to think that no matter what, no matter circumstances, God is still good. There have been many moments in my life recently where I've felt physically sick to my stomach from the stresses of life. I've had moments where all I want to do is lay in bed, and just waste away the day. It was in those moments where I stepped aside, and found peace. God is the ultimate peace. That is His name.
     When I think about the Israelites in captivity, I can't help but to think about how stressful that must've been. Beatings everyday. Stripped of everything you ever possessed, including your name. Where is the hope in all of this chaos? Out of the desert came a prophet who prophesied over the Israelite people:

"I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD. "Plans to prosper you, and not harm you. Plans to give you a hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

 That sounds pretty life-giving to me. Not exactly what I thought that refrigerator verse meant underneath the surface, but that's the context in which it was spoken.
     The main purpose for this post is to remind you that there is a peace that you can experience. Maybe you have something coming up; a test, move-out day, graduation, etc. There's so much to do in such a short period of time, and you're stressed to the max. Take some time, take a deep breath, and just think "Jesus." The mention of His name is enough to scare the enemy away. The enemy's strategy is to make sure you become so distracted by this stress that you forget about peace in Jesus. Revoke the enemy's powers; cancel their flight to destroy your life.

"I have mad him the ruler of the land. I have placed everything under his feet." Psalm 8:6

You have the authority to trample the enemy. Take advantage of it. And, in that, God will show you who He really is; Jehovah Shalom, the God who IS peace.