the summer project website works best in the latest versions of Chrome, Firefox and Safari

Brea needed her parents approval.

How did that obstacle make you feel at the time?

I felt very confused because I was having trouble finding the balance between honoring my father and mother but also obeying the Lord and following where he called me. I wanted to honor both of my parents but I also didn’t want to go on summer project if it was against their wishes. I definitely had an emotional need for my parent’s approval, which was hard to work through. It was a very confusing time and extremely difficult to balance.

What was the turning point? What made you realize God was calling you to go on summer project?


I was actually really scared to give up my summer; I definitely didn’t have a desire to but then I kept feeling a tug at my heart to commit my summer to the Lord. The Lord definitely made it possible for to go, so I couldn’t refuse. Then, I started to receive some clarity after I talked to my parents and made it clear to them my desire behind summer project. While talking with them, I also made sure they were aware that I wasn’t going to go against their wishes and I was still going to respect them. After I spoke with them, God has really softened their hearts. The Lord has especially softened my Mom’s heart towards Him. A pivotal point was when my Mom called me and apologized for not realizing my heart behind summer project. Her heart was completely transformed and softened by the Lord. Coming to summer project, I never thought my Mom would be supportive as she is now.

What practical steps did you take during the process?

Before I confronted my parents about my desire to go on summer project, I met with my discipler and ran through all of the possible situations and reactions my parents could have. My biggest goal was to deal with it in a way that would honor them above anything else. I then told my parents about summer project and made it clear to them it was really how I wanted to spend my summer. After I told my parents, I made sure to answer all of their questions and I gave them plenty of resources.

What do you recommend to others who face a similar obstacle?

I think it’s vital to consult and communicate with your discipler or another mature Christian. I would encourage you to intentionally honor your father and mother because that is something the Lord calls us to do. You have to continue to place your faith in the Lord, no matter how long it takes.

Brea attended the Virginia Beach Summer Project in 2011.