Something that has been on my heart for a while and probably just magnified due to the holidays, is the desire to be Gods hands and feet more. Like physically looking for ways to express Gods love to others through acts of kindness. I'm as guilty as the next person for thinking great thoughts and not following through. But I want to have more than good intentions. I realize that sometimes that might cost me some money, some time or some comfort and that's OK. I really feel like this is the best way to show my kids how to live out their faith. We were fortunate enough to kick off the holidays by serving at a soup kitchen on Thanksgiving. I'll admit, I was nervous. I had no idea what to expect or if people were going to receive us there. Then it occurred to me that it's not about me. The girls did great. Above and beyond what I expected of them. Over and over God keeps stirring the desire in me to give more than I receive. Being that I am a daughter of the king I know I can't ever do that in regards to what he has given me. But in church we are working through the book of 2 Corinthians and last week we were in chapter 9. Verse 6 says,"The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully." I want to do that; let go of things that are temporary and invest in those things that are eternal....like souls. For everyone giving looks different but it's for ALL believers. Verse 7 goes on to say,"Each one must give as he has made up his mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." I love looking for ways to give. In turn I see my girls also looking for ways to give, to bless others and honor the Lord. Sometimes giving is going to cost us a Sunday afternoon on the couch as we help a neighbor move. Other times it might be that giving takes us out of our comfort zone as we invite someone to our home for a holiday meal because they have no family. Whatever the cost to us, it will never amount to the cost God paid as he gave his son. Giving also stirs up prayer in us right? I mean I pray about serving at the soup kitchen, I pray for God to use my family. I pray for the friend or family member God has laid on my heart to give to. I pray for the person God has pressed upon my heart to serve. Being willing to give without expecting anything in return; that is my hearts desire. To give because HE first gave it all. Blessings my friends!
2 comments:
It is a good path and like us this year we learned that it is only up to us to give with a willing heart the rest is up to God! Great job. :) By the way can you email me your address again. Thanks!!
Hey friend :) I am so amazed at everything you do! You inspire me. I have always wanted to serve in a soup kitchen but so afraid of how I will be perceived but all in all it's not about me. It's about who I'm serving. It's been a while but hope you've been good. Need to catch up on your blog!
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