7 Day God Challenge – Day 2

"For am I now seeking the approval of man, or of God? Or am I trying to please man? If I were still trying to please man, I would not be a servant of Christ" (Galatians 1:10).

Today, I was surrounded by Christians literally all day long. First, I went to coffee with a friend in the morning, in the afternoon I spent time with my brothers and cleaning, then concluded my day with family. All of whom happen to believe in Jesus, which is awesome :) anyways, when you hang out with Christians, there is this feeling ... I'm not even sure how to describe it. Basically, God has a way of shining through true followers of Him. For example, my grandpa is one of the most giving people I know. Tonight, I got to spend some time with him (along with all my other wonderful fam bam). He loves Jesus so very, very much. His ability to give never fails to astound me. He wants to give his love, his time, his money, even his chair to me! Sometimes, he doesn't even have the means to provide, but decides to anyways, because that's just the kind of guy my grandpa is. I tell him he spoils me, but he just responds that he wishes he could spoil me more! Honestly, he knows how to shower love to everyone, from family to strangers. He's not trying to please men, though that is true too. He tries to serve his King, and by doing so, serves everyone around him. To me, only a living, breathing truth has the ability to change people's hearts for life -- and that truth is my Savior.

7 Day God Challenge – Day 1 [for youth group]

For the next seven days, I'm going to write about where I've seen or experienced God in my day. It's funny. I'm always asking for direction from Him, when honestly, I don't spend all day thinking about Jesus. No wonder I never find directions; it's like following a broken compass!!!!

This morning, I sat outside and just thought. I don’t normally take time to just think, but I think it’s healthy to set aside time completely devoted to Jesus, without life’s obligations pressing on you. Last night, I prayed that I could just trust Him. Trusting Him takes two things: (1) realizing He exists and (2) knowing He’ll fulfill His promises. If you heard Pastor Meek’s sermon this past Sunday, you might recall his observation on a new bike trail he found. Well, those beautiful vineyards and plains happen to be right outside my house. So this morning, with a cup of coffee in hand and a Bible in the other, I took time to sit in awe of that breathtaking view on my back porch.

Peace. I experience a peace in God that I can never find anywhere else in this world; it’s out of this world. In the eerie silence, the wind blew my hair and the grass swayed to and fro while the sun’s rays shot through the cracks in the cloudy skies. The grass began to press harder to the ground with the increasing strength under the wind. The birds sang continually through it all as I sat. I felt my tiny, fragile state of being when I looked at the strength of the wind and the blooming flowers’ powerless attempts to resist it. Psalm 103:14-16 says, “For he knows how weak we are; he remembers we are only dust. Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die. The wind blows, and we are gone – as though we had never been here.” And also like Isaiah 40:7-8 says, “The grass withers and the flowers fade beneath the breath of the Lord. And so it is with people. The grass withers and the flowers fade, but the word of our God stands forever.”

Oddly enough, these verses came to mind and I thought, “I’m like one little strand of grass, but He was willing to give His life to make sure I survived.” I’m not even a pretty piece of grass. I’m a withering, broken, bruised, ugly piece that God decided He wants to heal, mend, and never break (Matthew 12:20). Just then, the clouds broke and the heavens smiled down perfectly and I just know God had to be literally beaming from heaven. I know something so beautiful could never be an accident.

I guess Matthew 6:26-30 sums up what I’m trying to say: “Look at the birds. They don’t plant or harvest or store food in barns, for your heavenly Father feeds them. And aren’t you far more valuable to him than they are? Can all your worries add a single moment to your life? […] Look at the lilies of the field and how they grow. They don’t work or make their clothing, yet Solomon in all his glory was not dressed as beautifully as they are. And if God cares so wonderfully for wildflowers that are here today and thrown into the fire tomorrow, he will certainly care for you.”

Dear Beloved [Suffering]

Dear Beloved,
I opened your letter the moment it arrived. I have so much to say, yet until I return, you will have to review my other letters, along with this one.

In your latest letter, you wrote that you have forgotten what happiness is; that your soul lacks peace (Lam. 3:17). You also mentioned lack of endurance, and even wrote that your hope in Me has perished (Lam. 3:18). It grieves Me to see you suffer like this (Lam. 3:33). Child, do not fear (Lam. 3:57).

If you only take one thing away from My letter, remember that I will always be with you, through the highs and lows; I will never leave nor forsake you ... EVER (Josh. 1:5). I will always love you, so please don't fear nor be dismayed in this short time (Deut. 31:8).

I want to remind you of a few things. You're mine (Isaiah 43:1). You are precious in my eyes (Isaiah 43:4). My steadfast love and mercies will never cease for you (Lam. 3:22). They are new every morning (Lam. 3:23)! I'm always good to those who seek and wait for Me (Lam. 3:25). I love that you simply thank Me for My letters and wait quietly (Lam. 3:26). Oh, how I love you, that despite the troubles at such a young age that you bear so well (Lam. 3:27)! I will not cast you off forever (Lam. 3:31). I know I am causing you grief now, but I will have compassion according to the abundance of My steadfast love (Lam. 3:32).

One thing you must always keep in mind is why you suffer. I know it feels unbearable for you right now. But until I come back, you must help me do what you can, where you are. The enemy will be upon you, and you will suffer for My sake (Phil. 1:29). In fact, you experienced it the moment you joined my cause. But when these trials come your way, consider it pure joy, for it is simply a test for your faith in Me and my cause, producing steadfastness (James 1:3). Don't fight the trial, but fight for Me, and allow the trial to have its full effect, so you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing in Me (James 1:4). How beautiful are My little ones like you, who bring good news, publish peace, publish salvation, bring good news of happiness, while proclaiming, "My God reigns!" (Isaiah 52:7).

Please, don't doubt Me, for though the grass withers and the flowers fade, I stand unwavering above them all (Isaiah 40:8). I am not like a shadow due to change -- that is you (James 1:17; 4:14). Are my letters not proof of how I am living? Does My creation fail to impress you? Does My love, which reaches to the heavens, not show? Does my faithfulness, which reaches to the skies, not show itself as well? [Psalm 57:10]Your doubt tosses you around like a wave of the sea (James 1:6). You don't have to be tossed around. I can be your stronghold, life, and salvation (Psalm 27:1). What are you but clay in My hands? [Jer. 18:6] I will be a Rock for you, who leads and guides you for My sake (Psalm 31:3). I will never change (Hebrews 13:8).

I know you are afflicted in every way (2 Cor. 4:8). But why do you cry? Does a King not exist within your very soul? Has your counselor perished? [Micah 4:9] Of course not. How can I give you up, hand you over, or treat you badly? My heart recoils within me; My compassion grows warm and tender for you (Hosea 11:8). I lead you with with cords of kindness, bands of love, and ease your hardships (Hosea 11:4). And you know what? You aren't crushed. You're alive, surviving, and soon to be thriving. You're perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed (2 Cor. 4:8-9). Yes, death is at work in you in every way, but with Me, you have life (2 Cor. 4:10). And who knows? Maybe I will reward you here on earth through this tribulation (Joel 2:14).

Even without a reward, did you know glory comes through tribulations? Tribulation produces perseverance; and perseverance, character; and character, hope. My hope will never disappoint you, because I poured my love into your heart by giving you the Holy Spirit (Romans 5:3-5). However, you still ask, "God, where are you?" You must realize I will do what pleases Me, not you (Psalm 115:2-3). Keep in mind that I am not excluding you. I know you intimately ... I know when you sit, when you rise, your thoughts -- all your ways (Psalm 139:1-3). Do I not know what's best for both of us? Just know that I am King and I am sovereign (Psalm 74:12).

I am coming for you soon, I promise (Rev. 1:7). At the end of the day, after all your trials, you will receive the crown of life, because you love Me (James 1:12). I'll never forget you [Isaiah 49:15] and I love you (John 3:16).

Whatever you do, loved one, don't lose heart (2 Cor. 4:16). For a joyful heart is good medicine (Proverbs 17:22). You will survive, even if you feel like you're wasting away. I renew you day by day (2 Cor. 4:16). I know life seems tough now, but this light, momentary affliction prepares you for eternal glory beyond all comparison -- life with ME (2 Cor. 4:17). Is that not worth more than all the earth? Just remember to look at the things unseen; for the things seen are temporary, but the things unseen are eternal (2 Cor. 4:18).

Love,
Your Father, Beloved, Sustainer, Rock, Creator, Lover, etc. :)

[P.S. Check out this song: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-U-hOMunpWo I thought it fit well with this post.]

Fear Leads to Action. Apparently, I have Little Fear.

I am learning so much lately. God's molding can hurt -- and right now, it hurts quite a bit -- but in the end, I wouldn't have it any other way. I'd rather learn from Jesus and hurt, than not learn anything, and be "okay" with feeling okay.

Soo ... Define "Fear" 
What does it mean to really fear Him? "The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom" (Psalm 111:10). If that's true, we must learn to fear Him in order to gain wisdom. The more life I live, the more I feel entitled to give Him what I can never repay. To comprehend that He'd die for me is one thing. To understand that I get to be His servant?! What a privilege. But I haven't even taken up His offer on that yet. He gives me a chance to "know," "believe," and "understand" Him (Isaiah 43:10). Not only that, but I get to be His "witness" (Isaiah 43:10). How, then, I can live such a distracted life with such selfish motives? Yes, sin lurks everywhere, but we're called to overcome it's desire for us and "rule over it" (Genesis 4:7). Why? Because sin isn't our master anymore; we're not under the law, but under grace (Romans 6:14). With that said, I have a lot to work to do and a lot of "desires" to overcome.

How do I overcome myself? Put on your superhero clothes!
"Put on the full armor of God [...] so that when the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your ground, and after you have done everything, to stand [...] And pray in the Spirit on all occasions with all kinds of prayers and requests. With this in mind, be alert and always keep on praying for all the Lord’s people" (Eph. 6:11, 13, & 18). "And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus" (Phil. 4:7). I couldn't have said it better myself. But just like superheroes, we don't know when "the Son of Man is coming" (Luke 12:40). In fact, He's coming at an hour we don't expect, so we have to stay "dressed for action" at all times (Luke 12:35;40).

God Knows Best
God knows best, so of course He's going to choose His timing. I'm preaching to the choir, if you know what I mean, because I'm pretty bad at realizing His plan is a lot better than mine! I know Jesus makes "everything beautiful in its time" and that we "cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end" because "whatever God does endures forever; nothing can be added to it, nor taken from it. God has done it, so that people fear before him" (Ecclesiastes 3:11 & 14). Knowing He knows it all -- and we know next to nothing -- should be enough reason to let Him plan. God tells us, "I am the first and I am the last [...] Who is like me? [...] Let them declare what is to come, and what will happen [...] Is there a God besides me? There is no Rock; I know not any" (Isaiah 44:6-8). You know what I found interesting though? If I simply remember Him, He invites us to "argue" with Him; to set forth my case to be proved right (Isaiah 43:26). He wants my opinion; He wants to talk with me! There really is no God like Him. Lastly, he warns, "Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it?" (Isaiah 43:18-19).

How's your perception and reception?
"Can you hear me now? Good." [Yes, I did just steal a Verizon Wireless commercial line.] I truly think He asks that a lot and when we finally perceive what He's saying, He sighs and says, "Good!" or probably more accurately put, "finally!" or "about time!" Our reception is pretty terrible most of the time, but every once in a while, we perceive what He's saying. Even if we perceive what He's saying, how often do we take action? Not very often, unfortunately. God wants us to "magnify his law and make it glorious" for His sake and pleasure (Isaiah 42:21). But honestly, we do a crappy job. As of late, however, I've come to realize that I need His help for and in EVERYTHING, including serving Him! God working in your life has an endless abundance of blessing. But I can't lie, it can hurt, too. God will give us a new heart and a new spirit, replacing our "heart of stone" with a "heart of flesh" (Ezekiel 36:26-27). That transformation in our hearts takes a lot of surgery in our own lives, but it's well worth it. Think about it. We have a heart of stone compared to His heart for us. He was willing to face the hardships of man and die on a cross. What are we willing to do? Buy a donut for 89 cents. Our lack of faith is disturbing. MY lack of faith is disturbing. If I had any faith, I'd take way more action. After this speech tournament, I am waking up from my slumber of passion for Jesus.

Lord, teach me your ways so that I may walk in your truth. Please, unite my heart to fear your name. I will give thanks to you with my whole heart! Create in me a heart pure enough to glorify You, that I may give You a sliver of justice.
Love, Your Servant Who's Working On it [Psalm 86:11-12].

P.S. I already have a blog idea for my next one :O It will be addressed like a letter from God to us :)

Jesus and Japan

In case you've been living in a hole the past few days, Japan has been facing tsunamis and earthquakes. Times are crazy. I've even heard that there is a lack of food and are now only feeding the children and elderly. The stock market has been crashing. To top it off, some people say that this is Revelations unveiling itself (though I suppose that's nothing new).

Chaos. That is the best word to describe about what's happening. But a few days ago, I was reading Psalm 46. I found it very fitting for what's happening right now.

"God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble.
Therefore we will not fear, though the earth gives way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging [...] God will help her at break of day. Nations are in uproar, kingdoms fall; he lifts his voice, the earth melts.
The Lord Almighty is with us; the God of Jacob is our fortress.
Come and see what the Lord has done, the desolations he has brought on the earth.
He makes wars cease to the ends of the earth. He breaks the bow and shatters the spear; he burns the shields with fire.
He says, 'Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.'"(Psalm 46:1-3;5-10).

God can provide the healing and strength needed to overcome this tragedy. We just have to trust Him. He can use this for His glory, even if we don't find it glorious in any way or fashion. I can't do much, but I pray He can use this to further His kingdom.

P.S. On a positive note, I overheard a couple in Starbucks tonight talking about Jesus, so I asked if they were Christians. They said yes :) The guy was wondering if I was a Christian too when I pulled out a book, so he creeped on me and saw it was indeed a Bible, just like he thought ;) Idk why, but these encounters always make me so happy. I love overhearing my future buddies in heaven talking about Jesus in coffee shops; it's just awesome! Someday, I get to spend an eternity with others that love Jesus as much as me. Not to mention, I get to chill with Jesus forever! How cool is that?

What Can Faith Do?

I'm not sure. I'm still trying to figure out what exactly my faith can accomplish. There's a chance I never will find out (until heaven I guess!). But I've been wondering ... how much do our day-to-day choices affect our lives? What seems like a big decision at the time means nothing. Other times, a seemingly small decision has a huge impact. Furthermore, sometimes our decisions have no impact (like choosing to eat an egg for breakfast). Or does it? What about the more serious things in life? Or giving advice to friends? Choosing a spouse? What I'm going to eat? Where that food ends up? .......... jk that's a whole different conversation. I'm probably over-analyzing; I am a woman after all ;) lol but seriously, what kind of impact do our choices have? How much does our faith in something contribute to our future? I've been thinking a lot about it for probably like a month. If you have thoughts, feel free to share :)

So, what can faith do? According to the Bible, it can work wonders. Matthew gives an account of a man who brings his possessed child to them, hoping they could heal his son. The man informs Jesus of this, to which Jesus responds, "How long shall I put up with you?" (Matthew 17:17) and heals the boy. When the disciples ask why they were incapable of healing the boy, Jesus responds that they had "so little faith" (Matthew 17:20). In fact, he adds, "if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Nothing will be impossible for you" (Matthew 17:20). Basically, if the disciples just had faith, they could have sent out the demon themselves, right? For the things that are impossible with humans are possible with God (Luke 18:27). But instead Jesus taught them a lesson through their inadequacy. Additionally, the Bible gives examples of what faith can do. In fact, the entire chapter of Hebrews 11 is devoted to how people historically -- in the Old Testament -- leads God to take action on their behalf. It starts off by defining faith: "confidence in what we hope for and assurance about what we do not see" (Hebrews 11:1). You can read it for a clearer idea of what I'm saying. But anyways, it concludes with how people, through faith, can conquer kingdoms, administer justice, gain what was promised, shut the mouths of lions, quench the fury of the flames, escape the edge of the sword, turned weakness into strength, raised the dead -- basically do anything (Hebrews 11:33-35). Faith also meant suffering in many ways, because "the world was not worthy of them" (Hebrews 11:38). Yet, they're all commended for their faith, even when they didn't recieve what was promised, since God had a better plan in the works toward perfection (Hebrews 11:39-40). In Romans 4:20-21, we're told Abraham, "did not waver through unbelief regarding the promise of God, but was strengthened in his faith and gave glory to God, being fully persuaded that God had power to do what he had promised." Faith means to be fearless and doubtless. Faith means 100% trusting and believing in something. However, this still doesn't answer my question. If I ask, I'll recieve -- but I have to believe it. If so, does my lack of faith keep me from recieving? Or was it not in God's plan? And how do I tell the difference? Where is the line between what God plans for me and what I choose? What are the effects? See, doubting has been the problem since the beginning. (Did Satan not place doubt in Eve's mind in the garden?) Sometimes I wonder if doubt is the problem. Even Jesus says in Mark's writing (11:22-24) to, “Have faith in God [...] if anyone says to this mountain, ‘Go, throw yourself into the sea,’ and does not doubt in their heart but believes that what they say will happen, it will be done for them. Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours." Essentially, everywhere I look, it says if I ask, I'll recieve, I just have to believe! But it's doesn't seem that simple. Why? Because we doubt ... right? Doubting isn't always bad, but a lot of times it is. But even if we had faith to move the mountains, it wouldn't mean a thing unless -- in fact, "I am nothing" -- if I don't love (1 Cor. 13:2). I guess the key is to fix our eyes on Jesus, "the pioneer and perfecter of faith" (Hebrews 12:2). Because in the end, the world isn't concerned about what storms came our way. Instead, they focus on if the ship made it to shore. I just have to trust Jesus to guide me! Simple ...... kinda ... but not really.

Here's the other thing. Obviously, God doesn't want us to sit around lazily. God continually calls people -- history attests to this -- to step up and take action. But life's like a game. Everyone cheats. God knows it, but let's the game go on [judgement is served when the words "game over" are uttered for every human life]. Our job is to make wise decisions throughout the game. So shouldn't we make Godly choices for Him? This is where I get confused. I don't live a perfect life, but I try my best. Every choice brings us closer or farther from something. What am I saying "yes" or "no" to in life?  Do they glorify God? God's wisdom is immeasurable -- and even unsearchable (Romans 11:33). Yes, God controls everything. But my faith isn't obsolete; it has meaning. But how much can my faith do through Christ? That is the question ...

For now, I guess I'll just try to love like Jesus, for Jesus. Because true love leads to action and I wouldn't take action if I didn't have faith.
P.S. This song has been standing out to me lately, maybe because of all these thoughts! Idk. If you have any opinion on this, feel free to share with me because I am not sure right now! haha anyways, here is this awesome song by Kutless: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u1JBSQMkQEo

A Christian's Two Cents

"Rich and poor have this in common: The LORD is the Maker of them all." Proverbs 22:2

Tomorrow, it's supposed to snow in the Bay Area. Crazy, isn't it? Sure, it gets cold here, but rarely does it snow! First off, you should know -- if you don't already know :) -- that I have a heart for the poor and needy. The homeless, regardless of how they got there, lack wealth -- monetarily and in spirit. What do they live for? Family, if they have any. Certainly not their jobs! If you read the Bible, you will find numerous verses saying to help the poor. Saturday, it's supposed to snow. Where will the homeless be? Definitely not curled up in a blanket with hot cocoa watching television. Some people give their time volunteering at soup kitchens -- but those only get you so far. What, then, is our job as Christians to help? Okay, if you don't have a heart as passionate as mine about this -- which clearly isn't saying much because I'm such a weenie and haven't done anything yet --  just hear me out. Open up your hearts and mind to the idea and let God do the tugging, nudging, kick in the butt or whatever, not me! :)

Everybody is a Somebody
Shocking, I know. In a world where we always have class systems (schools, races, even gender), Jesus spreads a different message. He tells us that, "believers in our glorious Lord Jesus Christ must not show favoritism" (James 2:1). Now listen to His reasoning: "Suppose a man comes into your meeting wearing a gold ring and fine clothes, and a poor man in filthy old clothes also comes in. If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts? Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him? But you have dishonored the poor. Is it not the rich who are exploiting you? Are they not the ones who are dragging you into court? Are they not the ones who are blaspheming the noble name of him to whom you belong? If you really keep the royal law found in Scripture, “Love your neighbor as yourself,” you are doing right. But if you show favoritism, you sin" (James 2:2-8). Folks, discrimination gets you NOWHERE. In fact, in the past, it's led to disasters (Civil War, Hitler, etc.). Christians have it hard because we're different. Homeless have it hard because they're different too. Society says different is bad, but if God created each person that's ever walked the face of the earth uniquely, than shouldn't we look upon "different" favorably as well? Less favoritism; more loving.

Our Job
Obviously, God is in control of everything. But if we're the body, we should be the arms reaching. If we're the bride of Christ, then out of love, we should give our all to Him. If He is our friend -- our BEST friend -- shouldn't we give 110% to Him? I know I fall short in this area -- but so do you. We could all do a lot better. Omitting a cuss word, speaking kindly to someone you'd rather punch in the face, loving the unlovable, etc. We should have trouble not blurting out how much He loves us to complete strangers. But no ... we live life day by day, wishing our lives were more exciting. What could be more exciting than serving Him?! This is all hypocritical of me to say -- one of my biggest pet peeves!!! -- but it's also true. God wants us to serve Him, and maybe, that call to serve Him is for the poor. We have to "Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy" (Proverbs 31:9). Maybe you're meant to serve politically for Him. But guys, God says we're "called to be free," but not so we can indulge and fatten ourselves with our desires, but rather, that we "serve one another humbly in love" (Galatians 5:13). We're not supposed to look at our own interests, but put the interests of others first (Philippians 2:4). Helping a friend isn't a problem. But suddenly when it's for someone we don't like or someone seemingly undeserving -- say, the homeless -- we shrink back and go, "that's alright, someone else can do it." No, "do not be negligent now, for the LORD has chosen you to stand before him and serve him, to minister before him" (2 Chronicles 29:11). Suddenly, it's a little different, isn't it? He's standing in front of us, asking, "Child, I love you, but I wish you would do what I've called you to do." And trust me, He's got an unfathomable plan for your life, because God "works in you to will and to act in order to fulfill his good purpose" (Philippians 2:13).

Failure to Answer your Call
"Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God." ~Proverbs 14:31

"Whoever shuts their ears to the cry of the poor will also cry out and not be answered." ~Proverbs 21:13

Those are only a couple verses (about the poor) which deal with punishment. Trust me, He's got a wrath hefty enough to flood the earth. If you want to face that, go ahead. But God wants us to answer His call, not ignore it! How rude is it when you don't answer His call, simply because you're scared? Not only is it rude, but you're being retarded. I've played retarded for too long and I'm ready to stop ignoring calls but instead answer cheerily as soon as I hear the ring. I had a ministry idea, but at this point, it won't happen due to time constraints. Now, I just have to pursue my passion along with the ministry idea, but make sure it actually works out :) I take heart knowing this: "Whoever is kind to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will reward them for what they have done" (Proverbs 19:17). Poor in wealth, poor in spirit. Wealth and honor come from the Lord, but He has the strength and power to work through you (1 Chronicles 29: 12). He'll reward you (on earth, heaven, or even both! He's pretty gracious :)

The Golden Rule: Treat Others the Way You Want to be Treated
Jesus stressed so often that we aren't worthy. We're not. But Jesus stressed even more that He is a merciful God, who is willing to love us anyways. Insane? Yes, but so amazing! God is our King, and he beckons us, "Come [...] take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you since the creation of the world" (Matthew 25:34). Spiritually, we were homeless until we found God. When we're hungry, He feeds us; when we're thirsty, He provides a drink; when we're strangers, He invites us in (Matthew 25:35). If we do the same for others, we're serving God. For as Matthew 25:40 says, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me."

Carpe Diem [Sieze the Day]
God calls the ones who bring good news, proclaim peace, salvation, and bring good tidings "beautiful" (Isaiah 52:7). Yes, I want you to go out and help the poor (in every meaning of the word "poor"). However, I don't want you to do something Christ hasn't called you personally to tackle. Instead, pray for His will in how He wants you to serve. He'll come near to you if you come near to Him (James 4:8). If You think He's calling you to do something, but you're not certain, test it. For if it's God's wisdom, it is "first of all pure; then peace-loving, considerate, submissive, full of mercy and good fruit, impartial and sincere (James 3:17). I hope Jesus praises us like He did for the widow, who "put more into the treasury than all others," even if it was only a few cents (Mark 12:41-42). I hope I give everything to Him with the right heart -- everything I have to live on.

P.S. Yes, I did say most of this tongue in cheek because I have a lot of work to do too! Keep in mind I do for many of my blog posts haha. But honestly, just think about what He's asking you to do. That's all I ask.