Closing this year.

This year has been a reflection of what Christ has done in my life. Through the trials and tests, I have grown in faith to depend more on the Lord as He is more and I am less allowing His Spirit to transcend in my life. Throughout the course of this year, God has shown me blessings after blessings as I remain close to Him. The Lord has given me specific gifts that He is using for His Glory and Kingdom.
I am a lady of the Lord and I intend to pursue Him more than ever in this upcoming year. I want to dig for treasure in Heaven and set my eyes to Heaven. I need to love and give more this upcoming year. I am hungry for what He has in store this upcoming year.
Blessed, thankful and content with my King ALWAYS being by my side.
He is with me in every situation. (Even when I'm running! :)
There is no need to worry. No need to dwell.
I'm looking forward and looking up to a God who is completely Loving, merciful, faithful, patient and everlasting.

Stole these verses from my friend Thompson. (sorry man! it just sums up everything for me! :))

Romans 8:38-39

Yes, I am sure that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor ruling spirits, nothing now, nothing in the future, no powers, nothing above us, nothing below us, nor anything else in the whole world will ever be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

1st Corinthians 15: 55-58

“Death, where is your victory?  Death, where is your pain?”

Death’s power to hurt is sin, and the power of sin is the law.  But we thank God!  He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ.

So my dear brothers and sisters, stand strong.  Do not let anything change you.  Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your work in the Lord is never wasted. 

i am done.

living my life for myself. Every desire, every piece that is me is dead. I am dead. My fullness is in Him; For He has given me life. 
Hebrews 12:1-2
 Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight, and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with endurance the race that is set before us, 2 looking to Jesus, the founder and perfecter of our faith, who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is seated at the right hand of the throne of God.”


From this day forward, I am running fast, hard and with complete endurance towards Him. He deserves all glory and all praise. What am I doing here saying that I'm running when I'm really just sitting around (clearly eating and not exercising). I need to run. I need to do. I need to act. I need to let go. 


Lord, you are the Gardner and I'm just the tree. Continue to pour in me, bear good fruit and water my soil only to glorify you, for the sake of Your Kingdom. May You be Praised. 

I am a servant.

The book of Peter. Speaking to me like a sore thumb. Seriously. This book is contagious. It's humbling.

There have been certain things in my heart that I haven't let go of. Things regarding family relationships and just being completely selfish in my ways. This book gave me a new perspective on treating others and just knowing that God is in control. It's not about feelings, emotions and all that gushy stuff. It's just about the transformation that He has given me through His Son, Jesus Christ.

I am learning. I am growing. With Him.

Live as people who are free, not using your freedom as a  cover up for evil but living as servants of God. Honor everyone. Love the brotherhood. Fear God. Honor the emperor.

I love spending time in the word. Especially, when He knows just what I need to get in check with Him.

#too cool #God #awesome #Book of Peter #Life Changing

thoughts on prayer.

1)  God knows what you are going to pray about before you pray about it.
2) Being real and praying what's really in your heart and not those "typical-you're supposed to pray this" type of prayers.
3) Pray under His will. Don't pray for silly things that you want.
4) Don't expect to have your prayer answered right after you've prayed.
source: radio

the power of _______________.

Prayer. 
Prayer is so powerful. Often times we forget how essential it is. We forget how dependent we are on it.  We forget that others need prayer too. But, yesterday I learned that prayer is apart of  being the Church, the Body. It's the way we reach out to others. It's Love. It's coming together and lifting each other up in the name of Jesus Christ. It doesn't matter what you believe in.. everyone needs prayer. The Lord has taught me to be bold and active in praying for people, for this world in hopes that they will come and know Him. He is good. Holy and Perfect. What a beautiful display of love. 


“There is no other activity in life so important as that of prayer. Every other activity depends upon prayer for its best efficiency.”  M.E. Andross


When prayer has become secondary, or incidental, it has lost its power. Those who are conspicuously men of prayer are those who use prayer as they use food, or air, or light, or money."  M.E. Andross


"Prayer is reaching out after the unseen; fasting is letting go of all that is seen and temporal. Fasting helps express, deepen, confirm the resolution that we are ready to sacrifice anything, even ourselves to attain what we seek for the kingdom of God."  Andrew Murray



James 5:16
16Therefore confess your sins to each other and pray for each other so that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective.

rough draft. (this is almost the exact same thing as previous post)

His grace is sufficient enough for me. (work still in progress)

we are mist. we are humans and we aren’t capable of anything. there are just some things in life we can’t control. whether or not you give that up to the Lord, that’s up to you. ( i needed that reminder today)

God is so much stronger. So much greater. His love is everlasting and His plan is genius.
Oh Lord,
I am desperate for Your Spirit. Thirsty for Your presence and longing for You. I have to admit, the past week has been chaotic and I was in constant motion. But today. I was moving with Him. I’m really thankful for this day. Especially just spending time walking with Him. It was intimate and refreshing to know that He is my strength and without Him, I can’t function.
I needed that reminder. I always need that. I am disobedient and unworthy. I have lost myself slowly for my journey in searching for my identity in Christ.
I need to know the Spirit. I need to be desperate for it. I need to be completely dependent on the Spirit which is God. (Acts) 

And I’ve realized that I have been  taking things for granted (because it is so easy to) (that was a really bad excuse) (genesis 3) nonetheless—the simple things- like eating whatever I want whenever I want. I need to start allowing Him to provide me with food. living out proverbs 30:7.

 ⁷ “Two things I ask of you, O LORD; 
   do not refuse me before I die: 
⁸ Keep falsehood and lies far from me; 
   give me neither poverty nor riches, 
   but give me only my daily bread. 
⁹ Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you 
   and say, ‘Who is the LORD?’ 
Or I may become poor and steal, 
   and so dishonor the name of my God.

Sitting here, I almost feel like screaming and breaking something because I felt like I forgot Him.
That is a super scary thought because if I wasn’t dependent on Him and being obedient, who was I being dependent upon?
So, I share this with you because this has been on my heart for the longest time and it’s been a struggle.
Lord, please, please, please give me just what I need so that I won’t forget You again. My desire is You, Jesus and I pray that You come into my heart and lead me. Lord, I’m also praying that You make sure that I’m denying my selfishness and myself for Your spirit. That You are working through me. Praying for focus and just simply obedience.
More of You, Less of me. Please, Lord. I’m pleading and praying.
Thank You for Your continually love. I don’t deserve it but yet You’ve given it to me. With that alone, I praise You my God forever. I pray that others will encounter You, who You are and How great You are. You are my Creator. You are my King. 
-me

we are mist.

and poof. we are gone. (james)
We are so tiny. And yet we feel like we're the only person on this earth. (well, that's how I see it sometimes) how selfish and arrogant of me.
But,
God is so much stronger. So much greater. His love is everlasting and His plan is genius.
Oh Lord,
I am desperate for Your Spirit. Thirsty for Your presence and longing for You. I have to admit, the past week has been chaotic and I was in constant motion. But today. I was moving with Him. I'm really thankful for this day. Especially just spending time walking with Him. It was intimate and refreshing to know that He is my strength and without Him, I can't function.
I needed that reminder. I always need that. I am disobedient and unworthy. I have lost myself slowly for my journey in searching for my identity in Christ.
I need to know the Spirit. I need to be desperate for it. I need to be completely dependent on the Lord.

And I've realized that I have been trying to do things on my own (because it is so easy to) (that was a really bad excuse) nonetheless--the simple things- like eating whatever I want whenever I want. I need to start allowing Him to provide me with food. living out proverbs 30:7.

 ⁷ “Two things I ask of you, O LORD; 
   do not refuse me before I die: 
⁸ Keep falsehood and lies far from me; 
   give me neither poverty nor riches, 
   but give me only my daily bread. 
⁹ Otherwise, I may have too much and disown you 
   and say, ‘Who is the LORD?’ 
Or I may become poor and steal, 
   and so dishonor the name of my God.

Sitting here, I almost feel like screaming and breaking something because I felt like I forgot Him.
That is a super scary thought because if I wasn't dependent on Him and being obedient, who was I being dependent upon?
So, I share this with you because this has been on my heart for the longest time and it's been a struggle.
Lord, please, please, please give me just what I need so that I won't forget you again. My desire is You, Jesus and I pray that You come into my heart and lead me. Lord, I'm also praying that You make sure that I'm denying myself for Your spirit. That You are working through me. Praying for focus and just simply obedience.
More of You, Less of me. Please, Lord. I'm pleading and praying.
Thank You for Your continually love. I don't deserve it but yet You've freely given it to me. I pray that others will encounter You.
-me

You are more.

I have recently discovered that the Lord is my ultimate teacher. I have been so frustrated, so selfish, thinking that I can control my attitude/emotions.. to say the least.. so unfaithful and disrespectful towards my own Father who thinks about me more than all the grains of sand on this Earth. He had to break me down, twist me back and forth and slap me in the face in order to show me that I have no idea what I'm doing and that I needed to realize how dependent I am.  I realized that His plan is simply perfection. I am impatient, unworthy and so out of control to deserve a Love like this.

woahzers.

I can't even comprehend what just happened today. First day of work was awesome and I am just so excited for the rest of the week. Seeing an old friend was amazing. Jesus was present and it was just lovely. We discussed the different roles that God carries for us and it was spectacular. Father, Savior, King, Gardener, Poet, Lover, Friend, Caretaker, Doctor.. etc. It just amazes me. I have this voice that only comes from the Lord and He has taken me to such great heights.
I owe Him my life.

Jesus, take my life and make it Yours.

I love meeting people. I love reuniting with people. I love seeing how the Lord uses those relationships to further His Kingdom. I was talking with a very good friend of mine on the phone about surrendering EVERYTHING to the Lord. Yesterday, I met up with another one of my life long friends and I remember telling him, "Risking everything for the Lord is pretty crazy but if you realize how worth it is.. HOW CAN YOU EVER GO BACK??!" And, then it hit me. I didn't say that, the Holy Spirit was definitely working in me yesterday and it was so cool to realize that all I need is the Lord. I am SO excited for all the plans He has in store for me. I am fullfilled with His grace. Too cool. I am deeply encouraged by all my brothers and sisters and how delightful and loving they are to me.

But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not us.

2 Corinthians 4:7
Just gonna lay it all out there. In everything that I do, say or act is for God. He has given me this voice to speak of His love and His strength. Even in an interview, He uses me to speak of Him and what He has done for me. I have been praying for the Holy spirit to dwell in my heart because I did feel distant and empty for sometime. But, He answers prayers and it is truly incredible to believe and witness Him working. To you, I praise Your name to the highest. Even though life throws curveballs, deutors, craziness and chaos at us, God is in control and just knowing that one day I'll be with Him is the most reassuring promise ever. I can't wait for Heaven and knowing that I will be with the Holy and Soverign God is just about the best. Like I said in my other post, His love is so deep and unconditional.. it's unlike anything anyone could ever give me. How can I ever stray away or love somebody else more than I love Him?

the little things.

Why am i still awake?
Just thinking about the Lord and the little things he creates that just make me smile.

Have you ever just stopped and thought about why there are just so many different kinds laughters out there? It's just so cool. God didn't have to create that but He did. He is so detailed and I am in awe everyday.

What if we only had one kind of laugh and it produced one kind of noise?
That would be so dull wouldn't it?
But the Lord. Oh the Lord is more creative than that.

Learning to appreciate the little things in life just like this.
The Lord is just so much bigger than we think and He is the movie, while we just play apart of 2 seconds in His movie.

Credits about the whole laughter idea goes to the first chapter of Francis Chan's book called Crazy Love.
Highly recommended.
Goodnight loves.

I'm trying to add more pictures to this thing to make it more vibrant.
But this is me and my sister laughing. (well kinda) God gave us crazy laughs!

first love.

A few days ago, I realized.. well it was more of God helping me realize that His love is enough. To be honest, I have been fighting with Him over that because I was getting frustrated and impatient. But, the moment that I felt His overbearing love exalting me, I knew it was tangible and felt a sense of peace because He is really all I need. There is no other person on this Earth that can give me the love that Jesus gives. (especially when I don't deserve any of it). He brought me back to the moment when He saved me and that's when I knew it was real. I felt complete. I mean, I feel am complete. And, I am ready to move on and wait patiently upon the Lord.

I have nothing good.
Yet, you accepted me in love.
And, put your precious crown on me.
I owe you everything.
I lift my hands up to you, oh Lord.
Take my life and make it yours.
For, I have no good thing.

why isn't it saturday yet?!

I cannot wait for Saturday. My good friends Nathan and Kristiane are going to become one and I am so excited to witness it. Also, I can't wait to dance the night away with my friends. Super stoked.
And, I can't wait for the start of the new week because I know I get to see you sometime then. :)

us girls. you know how we do. 

Honduras: trip of a lifetime.

5/15/11 through 5/22/11

A week before.
The week before the trip could be described in one word: chaotic. In the mist of finals and preparing for Honduras, my mind was going crazy. Spiritually, I was to expect the unexpected and I am really glad He gave me that mindset. I am thankful that the Lord was there for me. He is everywhere and that is so reassuring. My friend's parents let us stay the night because they lived ten minutes away from the airport. I couldn't be more thankful for all that they did for us that week. Sweet, sweet people of Christ.
Flying.
I hate flying. Lets just get that out there. I got motion sickness and it was overall a long day. But, we finally made it to San Pedro Sula and drove to the mountains.
And it begins...
Being able to see God's creation first hand was breath-taking. It's like He placed His hand down on the Earth and placed mountains there. Seeing the high plains and all the dips were amazing. Being so close to the edge really tested my faith in God and I knew He was in control the whole time. Coming into the trip blinded and not having any expectations really helped me believe that God was in control the whole time. He orchestrated our trip and planned it from the very beginning. One of the discussions that we had was over the book of Acts and how the very first church ran. We talked about what it takes to follow and what Jesus wanted us to do after He had entered the kingdom of God. What would we do to obey him? How do we connect to the Spirit? How do we live fully for Christ? And, what does it take? As we sat in a really creepy pub house at nine o'clock at night, I just pictured myself as a disciple trying to figure out what to do right after Jesus had been crucified. It was convicting but at the same time challenging for me to demonstrate Christ to people around me back at home.
Seeing the way the people lived was incredible. Seeing the missionaries live their lives for Christ was inspirational and knowing that God is the center of their home was so humbling and amazing to me. I would go back in a heartbeat.
Below are some pictures I stole from my friends! :)

sunset.

salvation bracelets: explained in espanol.

testimony.

bubbles and happy children.

team.

life long friends. 

series of thoughts.

I found myself praying while I was supposed to be sleeping. I don't know whether or not I was actually asleep but after last night, I have realized how dependent I am on the Lord. Apart from Him, I wouldn't be able to function. Isn't that a scary thought. The Lord holds the world in His hands and He is in totally control. My heart desires for everyone in my life to know Christ. Every heartache, every detail would be His. I have gotten to the point where I am dependent on the Lord for every breath that I take. So, Christ is apart of me and I can't help but to share with everyone I come in contact with.
He is love.

expect the unexpected.

I am super excited for this summer. Like really super excited. God is showing me how merciful He is by planning my summer for me. Before, I had many plans I was trying to plan for myself and to be honest most of them ended up failing. The last place I would ever want to work is a fast food place. But, the Lord had better things in store for me. As I was praying and thinking about God and His will for my summer, He began to reveal to me that I need to be serving here and truly loving people and building relationships with other students. With that said, I was applying for several jobs and remembered that somebody at church owned a specific fast food restaurant. I messaged him immediately and he was the only one that got back to me about the possibility of working. Even though this is definitely not what I imagined for myself, God still provides.
Not only does He provide with earnings, He provides with people to love on. He knows who needs Him and who to use.
In awe of our marvelous King Jesus.

things i like part dos.

- people accepting Christ.
- $6 dresses.
- dressing up.
- talking to random people.
- laughing.
- sun.
- smiles.
- having lunch with you.

very short list to describe the upside of my weekend.

i'm really excited about tomorrow. just sayin. I love how God throws in curveballs.

have faith, trust God.

These last couple of weeks have been tough. There are certain things that I haven't been able to give up to the Lord because I felt in control. (FYI, I am never in control) I am not God. I don't have the ability to control anything and because of that it has been really difficult for me to trust Him. April was a really tough month for my sister, Lindsay. She is diagnosed with epilepsy and had several seizures. I was really worried and I kept thinking to myself and even declaring that if anything were to happen to her, I would come home immediately and take care of her. To be honest, I was terrified, worried and scared. Instead of coming to God about it, I took matters in my own hands. Reality hit. Number one, I was telling my friend everything I just described above and she immediately put me in check. I am not in control. I can't plan out my life and I can't be thinking ahead like that. I am so arrogant and impatient but the Lord is graceful and merciful. He put Ludz in my life for a reason and gave her the words to speak to me and tell me the truth.
Two,I was sitting there with my group members just talking and one of the group members mentioned that her sister had epilepsy, the second girl said "me too!" and then I said "me too!!" What are the odds that three people in the same class, same group are going through the exact same thing? All of us are the older siblings too. That is God at work and showing me that he is control. He is faithful and He loves me in a way that is so intimate in which He would put two other people in my class that are going through the same thing. THAT is amazing.
And lastly, I was on twitter this morning and came across David Platt's post about a little boy. I clicked on it and it was a blog dedicated to a little boy named  Sterling who is currently, at this very moment in surgery to get his brain tumor removed. Similar to Lindsay, he is experiences seizures even more severe than hers. Yet, he along with his family is putting all their faith in the Lord.
That is beautiful.
God is so merciful to His people, He answers your prayers and He loves you.

counting down the days.

I'll be out of the country in a few days and to be honest, I am really excited by really scared at the same time.
New scenery.
New people.
New surroundings.
New week.
I am giving all these feelings of anxieties up to the Lord.
I trust You with all my heart.

I am the little girl in this picture and God is the elephant.
I will never let go of Him and He reassured me tonight that He will never let go of me.
I am coming back to the heart of worship.
I am content with where I am right now. Phil 4:11.
I will wait for You, Lord.

even when i'm unfaithful.

God is faithful. He is graceful and He is picking me up from this self-imaging, self-destructing world. He is love and I can't fathom His presence right now. It is an overwhelming spirit of truth and hope. When you're getting closer to God, Satan knows how to reel you back out and put you back in this world. I finally realized today that God is STRONGER and I cannnot ever be apart from Christ. Falling is pushing me back and causing more distress when there's really none. And, trying to rely on yourself to get work done is impossible. But, with God anything is possible.
It's all about you Jesus.
I'm sorry for the thing I've made it.

love, love flows heavy.

I'm just going to throw it out there. This past week could be described in one compound word: roller coaster. The Lord has really broken me down, slapped me in the face and sat me down alone to face Him. I learned that my emotions can take over my life. And, I should have known this through prior experiences but I guess I still have alot to learn. The Lord has been diligent and patient with me. He is an awesome God and it breaks me knowing that people don't understand His grace and love. I'm thankful and blessed that there is a God who knows how to teach me and build me up. I am learning how to be still and obedient to God.
Being
still
is
probably
the
greatest
gift
that the Lord
can
give.
He is so personal and He knows me better than anyone and I owe it to Him to surrender my life to live for Him and the will he has for me.
After an overwhelming week, I finally feel renewed by the grace of Jesus Christ.
"His love is so tangible, so thick."
This statement is very true.
I am finally at peace.
All glory to you my God.

Good Friday.

I recently lost my bible and my journal somewhere. I'm sure it'll turn up. Anyway, I'm going to write in here today. As all of you should know, today is good Friday. It is amazing to know that Jesus is Lord. It is humbling to know that He died and bled for us to have new life. Three days later, He resurrects. Wow. Jesus is alive!
We should be in celebration every day. every minute. every second for this historic event. It's not about bunnies and candy. I'm consumed with joy knowing that Jesus loves me. Everything that I do, everyone I meet is all because of Him. I am overwhelmed everyday by how powerful He is. He has called me to share the gospel with the closest people in my life: my family. To be honest, I am still learning but the Lord has poured so much into my heart. He is changing me everyday and I am so thankful for that. I've lost and gained people in my life through finding Christ. But, I know that God is in control of every situation, every relationship and everything else. I just wanted to let you know that Jesus loves you more than you could ever know. His love is unconditional, unfailing and He is ALWAYS with you. Know that. Every struggle that you're going through, every trial and tribulation, every heart break.. just remember what Jesus sacrificed for you. His whole life. Therefore, we have already won the fight.

The Lord is working.
Oh He's working.
It is so evident in my life as well as the other people I've encountered this week.
All praise and glory to Him.
I am so overwhelmed with joy and love.

High mountains.

in an open space of darkness, there is a small light shining through.
there is hope. there is freedom in You and only You.
Set my wings free
and help me fly.
Your presence is guiding me home.
back to you oh, Lord.
I yearn to see Your face.
Fill me up with Your strength.
You are everlasting, holy and mighty.
I praise You to the highest.

i'm running fast and free to You.

God has revealed so much to me this week. I'm so filled with Him and His call for my life. I went home this weekend and it was the greatest. I got the opportunity to share what the Lord has done in my life to a few of my friends. Couldn't be more thankful for that! It was incredible to see one of my friends at borders reading his bible while I was reading mine! It might seem pretty small but it did mean alot to me to see him strong in his faith like that! The Lord is working in the city of Arlington and I have great hope for the future of that city to be more molded like Christ. I come back here to my city burning with this passion for Christ. Wanting Him whole-heartedly and praying for change. Praying for changing of hearts. Praying for God to open our eyes to what we are blinded by.
I am so encouraged by all the people in my life and what I see the Lord doing in their lives. Life is so good and I am so thankful to getting to know the God more and more each and everyday.

apart from you, i have no good thing.

I am so overwhelmed by God's grace. Even though I'm beat up tired and drained, I am alive and filled with joy about how thankful I am for all the wonderful people in my life. For one, I am getting ready to speak about the Lord and what He has done in my life. How HE changed my life. How HE humbled me. How real HE is. It will be quite wonderful and delightful. The spirit works in ways that I can't comprehend and I pray that it will move in me. Besides, all glory to God and how He wins every battle. My heart is so filled with the Lord. I don't know what I would turn into if He had not saved me from this filthy world.
:)

Memorization.

Lately this verse has been on my mind. Everytime I hit a road bump, this verse always appears.
I know the Lord is at my shoulder. Ahh, how reassuring. :)

Romans 5

Peace and Hope

1 Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we[a] have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, 2 through whom we have gained access by faith into this grace in which we now stand. And we[b] boast in the hope of the glory of God. 3 Not only so, but we[c] also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; 4 perseverance, character; and character, hope. 5 And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.
6 You see, at just the right time, when we were still powerless, Christ died for the ungodly. 7 Very rarely will anyone die for a righteous person, though for a good person someone might possibly dare to die. 8 But God demonstrates his own love for us in this: While we were still sinners, Christ died for us.

9 Since we have now been justified by his blood, how much more shall we be saved from God’s wrath through him! 10 For if, while we were God’s enemies, we were reconciled to him through the death of his Son, how much more, having been reconciled, shall we be saved through his life! 11 Not only is this so, but we also boast in God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have now received reconciliation.

Death Through Adam, Life Through Christ

12 Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, and in this way death came to all people, because all sinned—
13 To be sure, sin was in the world before the law was given, but sin is not charged against anyone’s account where there is no law. 14 Nevertheless, death reigned from the time of Adam to the time of Moses, even over those who did not sin by breaking a command, as did Adam, who is a pattern of the one to come.

15 But the gift is not like the trespass. For if the many died by the trespass of the one man, how much more did God’s grace and the gift that came by the grace of the one man, Jesus Christ, overflow to the many! 16 Nor can the gift of God be compared with the result of one man’s sin: The judgment followed one sin and brought condemnation, but the gift followed many trespasses and brought justification. 17 For if, by the trespass of the one man, death reigned through that one man, how much more will those who receive God’s abundant provision of grace and of the gift of righteousness reign in life through the one man, Jesus Christ!

18 Consequently, just as one trespass resulted in condemnation for all people, so also one righteous act resulted in justification and life for all people. 19 For just as through the disobedience of the one man the many were made sinners, so also through the obedience of the one man the many will be made righteous.

20 The law was brought in so that the trespass might increase. But where sin increased, grace increased all the more, 21 so that, just as sin reigned in death, so also grace might reign through righteousness to bring eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

food for thought. believe in love.

with the verses i read from these past few days.. i've learned deeply about what it means to believe in Jesus whole-heartedly. my faith was being tested and i know for a fact that God wins.. every time. through hard times, i know that the Lord is with me and He is strengthening my faith and building endurance.
so gracious.
so loving.
so patient.
that's Jesus.

Ephesians 2:1-10

“And you were dead in the trespasses and sins in which you once walked, following the course of this world, following the prince of the power of the air, the spirit that is now at work in the sons of disobedience— among whom we all once lived in the passions of our flesh, carrying out the desires of the body and the mind, and were by nature children of wrath, like the rest of mankind. But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved— and raised us up with him and seated us with him in the heavenly places in Christ Jesus, so that in the coming ages he might show the immeasurable riches of his grace in kindness toward us in Christ Jesus. For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”

Ephesians 2:1-10

This is the gospel. These ten lines describe the love and grace of Jesus. When I read this passage I have a vision of Jesus on the cross. His heart is bursting and tearing apart as He graciously dies to give us a new life in which we find only through His grace and mercy. This is the most important passage of scripture. This is beautifully written and describes the perfection of our Lord and Savior Jesus.
This is Jesus.

Things I like.

1. Denton
2. Food (specifically breakfast foods or foods in general)
3. singing LOUDLY.
4. dancing (everywhere especially while driving)
5. random text messages that make me smile.
6. making lists (and actually doing them)
7. festivals.
8. concerts
9. saying thank you
10. giving high fives
11. raising the roof
12. smiling
13. hugs!
14. looking up at the sky.
15. going to the park and reading the bible.
16. dresses
17. skirts
18. free things
19. going to places with people i love most.
20. yogurt
21. surprises
22. raising money for charity
23. random verses written down in random places
24. walking around to kill time.
25. talking to you.

To remember:

Composers:
Howard Hanson
Chopin
Liszt
Debussy

Feel free to let me know if I need to add any composers to this list. :)

Only the Lord's love.

I recently went to New Orleans and I learned about life. I learned how to love a city in which is so broken and lifeless. I learned that sin is everywhere. We are at war and it's scary to think that this whole time, I have just been passively sitting back and letting Satan take over. After this trip, I am completely terrified and aware that the Lord is all we need and He is the only way. I learned to let go and lean directly on His shoulders. Not anyone elses.
My faith grew tremendously post New Orleans. Before then, I felt a wall between God and me. I felt distant. I didn't understand why this was happening and I couldn't even choose. There was a barrier. I was sinking and it wasn't a good feeling at all. As the days went by, I prayed. I cried. I prayed more. And, finally received His grace and His mercy. I finally realized why I was in New Orleans and the purpose of serving our faithful and loving God.
After the trip and a sermon or two, it finally clicked. I am renewed. I am free. It's been a year and it's INCREDIBLE to see how much I've grown. Not bragging but praising. Praising Jesus for saving me from death. Baptism, here I come.
For those who don't know Jesus and for every person that comes across this post, I pray that you would receive His love, grace and mercy. He is real and He is here. Your heart will change. Your life will change. Don't be scared though, that's God's will and it's perfect (even if it may seem like it's not)
Anything you believe in may seem so tempting, true and full of richness but only through Jesus will you find the truth, the way and the life.
For you:
I hope you come to know the Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Really, truly and honestly.

Saviour King.

You are the breath I take.
You are the eyes that help me see.
I am blinded without You.
Every action, every move, everything is
dependent on You, my Lord, my God Jesus.
Amen.

thankful.

I'm sitting here tired and exhausted from a long day of school.
But,
I am thankful and blessed to be where I am right now.
I feel a sense of overwhelming comfort knowing that love is with me.
My heart is breaking right now for people who don't know Christ or don't have any idea of how incredible His spirit can be. The love of Christ is overwhelming and can't be described in words how it feels. His presence of grace and mercy is evident everywhere and in everyone. I talked to my friend last night outside for quite a long time before it started raining. We hit pretty much every topic you could ever think of. One thing that he said that stuck and will stick with me is how heartbroken I am for people that I love and how obvious and genuine that is. All glory and praise to our God! I am more convinced after that conversation of how real Jesus is and how He is moving through us.
Incredible.

nursing.

I went home on Thursday off a whim because my mom was somewhat handicapped and my dad had to work the next day so I thought I would take care of her. Well, it was more than just a thought it was more of a calling. Friday came around and I was hauling my mom around her rollie chair and doing whatever she needed me to do. I was basically her nurse. By the end of the day, she was exhausted and I was exhausted; but, I learned a great deal of sacrificial love and why I was called for this one specific duty on this one specific day. God has really made me realize how much my mother has sacrificed for me in the last 20 years and this was the least, least, least I could do for her. Taking away my life and my weekend in exchange for a whole weekend filled with nursing my mom around is all worth it. There are a million things I could be doing this weekend but Jesus decided for me to stay here with her.
I woke up this morning asking questions such as:
What if I had to move back here?
Quit school?
Live at home?
Not being able to see my friends anymore?
Being apart from the body that Jesus has blessed me with in Denton?
Not being able to go to my home church?
Living a whole new life?
These were really scary questions that I don't know the answers to and that's the most terrifying part. My family is falling apart and there is so much that has happened recently but my faith in the Lord is growing stronger than ever and I know for a fact that HE WILL COME THROUGH.

I also took the time out in the past two days to read Platt's book Radical. He explains that we perceive God as a loving, wonderful God who will grant you everything you want in your life. WRONG. The bible tells us that we are enemies of God, sinful people who think that we have life but really we don't. How can we create life for ourselves anyway? When we are clearly spiritually dead. We need to come to realize that we are desperate, thirsty, DEPENDENT on God to do things that we could never do for yourself and that's life. Depending on every breath, everything. I'm learning to be dependent. I'm learning to need. GOD. Without Him, I am nothing. I am nothing and I need to be used.

Lord, take me to where you need to be to go. Lead me. I WILL follow you.

mother

in her weakness, her beauty shines the most.
The Lord is working in her most definitely.
I continue to believe as my faith is being tested.
Thank you Lord, for loving us.
25 She is clothed with strength and dignity;
she can laugh at the days to come.

26 She speaks with wisdom,
and faithful instruction is on her tongue.

27 She watches over the affairs of her household
and does not eat the bread of idleness.

28 Her children arise and call her blessed;
her husband also, and he praises her:

29 ”Many women do noble things,
but you surpass them all.”

30 Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting;
but a woman who fears the LORD is to be praised.

31 Give her the reward she has earned,
and let her works bring her praise at the city gate.

Proverbs 31:25-31

Dear Jesus,

Lord you rein of goodness.
My filthy, dirty hands are cleaned because of your grace.
I pray that you continue to pour into me Jesus.
I need You.
You are it.
The world around me is breaking Lord and I pray that you would use
your mighty and powerful heart to save. Because in all things Lord,
You save souls from the dirty pits of purgatory and Lord I continue to
pray that you would open my heart to seek You.
You are holy and Your strength is what carries me through each and everyday.
Thank you for my life. Everything. Lord, You are so good and I pray that
others will come to experience the grace that you have diligently placed in my heart.
Through my disobedience, You continue to have faith in me.
Oh Lord, I pray that you would continue to clean my heart only to what Your will has in store
for my life to glorify your kingdom.
YOU deserve all praise my mighty, beautiful God Jesus.

Your light reins on this earth.

Today is one of those days. You wake up drive back to your town at 7AM get back in an hour and go to church. It was amazin'. Not only that but the grace of God is so evident in our world. He created this in such perfection and I continue to be in awe. His beauty reins in my heart and I continue to be thankful. Wow. Thankful for those who really and honestly care for me. I leap for joy for the kids who are getting new shoes.
There is still hope in the world.

best.day.

Despite all the disfunction, brokenness, tears, heartbreak, destruction that I've been through or have felt, I am reassured by the grace of Jesus that I am okay. I am living. I am alive. I am thankful for everyone that the Lord has specifically placed in my life. The plan that He has for my life is perfection. I am excited and eager to see what He has in store. I know I am continuing to grow in whatever place He places me in. I know that the Lord places us in situations we really don't expect or want to happen but he does it to challenge us all because He loves us. Incredible. Amazing.
Today was probably the best day of my life. Well, I tend to say that a whole lot but today was the day. For the first time, God has put words in my mouth to speak the gospel to not just anyone but my own mother. It was perfect timing and perfect words. I love that my mom was receptive. She listened. She comprehended. Then, Steven and I went to Freebirds and had a wonderful time catching up and it really allowed me to talk to him about what the Lord has done in my life vice versa. I am eager to meet his gracious mother one day! Also, getting to talk to my dear friend about everything kinda like we usually do and I am so thankful for him. Another big praise is spending time with Kenny because I never get to!
Also, I have realized how beautiful Jesus creates families. It brings me joy I am able to see beauty through them. This example comes from my cousin whom I haven't spoken to in 10 years. I still don't really talk to him that much right now but just getting to see how his girlfriend and baby are makes my heart melt. I know that there is hope for kindness and unity. Only love can conquer. Only Jesus can save.

My heart has been tearing apart this week with situations that have snowballed up to this point. I felt that I was in war with myself, in the middle of a spiritual and fleshly battle. Through God's Word, He has convicted me by how weak and incapable I am on this Earth. He has made me realize that I need Him everyday. More than ever. I now know how timid, shy and scared I am to do the one thing that Jesus has called me to do and that is to spread is gospel and love. I have been disobedient in a sense and it finally clicked this week. Last night as I was laying in my bed spending time with Jesus, I felt my heart quenching and hurting like someone was squeezing it but I also felt loved and comforted. I knew He was holding my heart in His hands and telling me that everything was going to be okay if I just trusted. Tears streamed uncontrollably down my face and I quickly fell asleep in peace.
How beautiful is that.

Jesus is the light to this world. He is Holy. He is the truth. He will challenge you. He is the way and He loves you. He has a plan for your life and He will follow through. He knows who where you will end up, what you will do with your life, who you will marry, how you will serve Him.
Follow Him. Give Him your life.
You will experience a love so personal, intimate, graceful with Him than any other relationship you form on this Earth.

I leave you with this.

For by grace you have been saved through faith. And this is not your own doing; it is the gift of God, not a result of works, so that no one may boast. Ephesians 2:8

We love because He first loved us. 1 John 4:19

fragile and humility

People change. Hearts change. Life changes.
I felt very convicted for the past two days and tonight was the first time I felt honestly humiliated by how lousy and pathetic I've been for the past few months. I learned to fully embrace the comfort that the Lord has given me and that has been the only reason I'm still going. His plan for us and the people in our lives is far more greater than anything I could come up with. I believe that we feel heavy, broken, pain for those people who are lost, broken and haven't experienced the overwhelming love of Jesus Christ. He is truth and we are led to spread that truth. I am so thankful for my sweet friends who have guided me during this time.

Our hearts change because He changes them.
Speak to me, Lord.

basketball testimony.

I am in awe. My heart is leaping out of my chest contemplating about how beautiful Jesus is. I can't stop thinking about how much I made a difference today. Originally, the plan was to talk at a youth basketball game and get some money for mission trip. But, God had a better plan for me. He completely calmed my nerves and encouraged me to speak words of glory all to Him. My joy for life is all through His glory and I would not be here without Him. My mindset has changed. My heart has changed and my soul is completely with Him.
Oh Lord,
You hold my heart with your hands. You are my anchor that ties me down and holds my heart in such intimacy.
There was a lady who came up to me. She looked very young but had many children. Immediately, she asked me questions about my upbringing and why I was so depressed growing up as a child/teenager. She was so thankful for me and my story and I loved that. I am so blessed and I the joy I have is sticking with me forever because God is with me forever. I am so thankful for the Lord. I need Him everyday of my life. I am in awe. I could burst into tears any minute now.

Beautiful day.

The Lord works in mysterious, intimate, personal ways we can't even imagine. My heart LEAPS for joy as I wake up and see His presence. The colors that God blends together makes my soul sink. And how He wakes me up bright and early in the morning to sit still and soak in the silence of the sky. My favorite time of day is morning. I wish I could wake up that early. All glory to God for waking me up and realizing how beautiful His creation is.
I can't comprehend how He puts people in our lives. I am so thankful. I am so blessed. His plan is so perfect and all my anxieties are all casted because of Him. I have nothing to fear. I have no need to worry. I am so thankful for new people. for new friends, opportunities to LOVE.

Strange.

There have been quite a few strange things that have happened to me recently. I used to believe in coincidences. Usually when strange things happen, I begin to question why life happens the way it does, why certain people are in my life and the cause and effects of my actions. I had no faith. I did not believe in fate because I was afraid of the future. Anyway, all that to say, I do have faith. I believe in a God who comforts and quiets me to the fullest whenever strange things attack. The Holy Spirit works in ways we can't comprehend. I am amazed. And so, I leave you with this verse.


Psalms 131:2 Surely I have calmed and quieted my soul, like a weaned child with his mother; like a weaned child is my soul within me

Romance.

My romance is only towards You Oh God.
Your love is greater than all that I know.
I know your love now.
I was blinded, but now
I can see.
I can see.
Your love.
No greater passion comes from anything except from you my God.
I come before your feet
to surrender my life in exchange for your plan.
Greater than what I can see,
Your love for me is keeping me steady.
I can see.
I can see.
Your grace.
Shining brightly.
No love this world can offer is as strong as Yours.
Pure, holy is Your love.
I can see You.
I surrender.

Retreat & Realizations

I had a leadership retreat for my college ministry yesterday. Basically, our ministry has gone through lots of changes in the past semester and we are working to serve God in the precious city of Denton. There are lots of broken hearts that need to be mended and that's one of the reasons why I felt led to help. Our hearts need to break. We have to learn how to love and make relationships with others in a way that would bring them closer to the Lord. He is so gracious and so loving. My desire and longing is for everyone in my life who is lost to come to that realization and connect with the Lord in ways that you would never think would feel so tangible! This weekend was really amazing because we got to hear what other people on the leadership felt and thought about this upcoming semesters with their goals and fears. I feel like I have a deep connection with everyone and that's so amazing because we are all striving for the same desires. I love that. I am so stoked about all the ideas and all the times that we are going to spend with each other. I love that we have the same mindset on God and it's just great to be able to pray and discuss with each other the word. I am also really amazed about how loving we all are and how we are able to fellowship with each other. I love that I can stay up until 3:45 AM with these friends who just continue to make me laugh and play cards. I would stay up just to hangout like that and it was incredible to see how God is working in our lives and how He is setting that bondage with each other! How He knows how to use us as a team.. WOW. WOW. WOW.
I am so excited for this semester as well as this summer. I am just ready to serve and LOVE.
That's it.
It's all about God. He created such a beautiful world with just dust. And the hope that he brings into this world. All praise. All glory. I pray for obedience and strength for this semester that it is all in the hands of the Lord and that HE will lead me. How HE will inspire me and give me eyes to see, a tongue to speak and ears to listen intently to Him and to others. I am ready. I am pumped. Even if I have to wake up early, sleep late, sacrifice my day for someone else, carpool etc. I will if it is God's will for His Kingdom.
I have to admit, there are many many many many times where I have neglected and ignored a person while they are looking for someone to talk to them. I have realized that through Austin who is speaking from God that I cannot be ignorant like that and I CANNOT play it safe. How will that help anyone? I need to break out of this shell and I need to love. I need to care. My heart needs to be broken for others. It needs to be broken for Jesus.
And it has to learn how to love.

James.

I read the book of James today after seeing Ludi post a verse on her tumblr. I am amazed by how obedient James was to God. He was so wise and his letter was exactly what I needed to read today. I think that God works in ways that we can't comprehend. I feel that this book is exactly how I have been thinking for last couple of weeks. Faith and patience are the two things that I've been working on spiritually. I am trying my best but I know that I am not higher or better than anybody else on this Earth. Only He is greater. Therefore, I feel led to serve those who need God. Those who need love. My heart breaks for the poor because I have been blessed with everything and I think that my purpose here on this Earth is to spread God's love and love people. I was reassured by this book. I am ready.
To be honest, It has been pretty rocky these last few days just because of circumstances and situations. I tend to make excuses that will lead me further away from God and it's really difficult to get back. I am so thankful that God led me to this book and that I am now ready to get back in reading.
Praise Jesus for your sweet, sweet mercy.
Amen.

Sundays.

Sundays are usually really exciting for me. It's the first day of the week and quite refreshing. On Sundays, I am renewed by the mercy of God to bring me another beautiful week of life. On Sundays I usually have a schedule of being in Denton attending life group and then worship. However, this week I am at home. I did not realize how important it would affect my day not being there. Of course, I am to blame for the countless times I have been missing my bible readings which is affecting me alot. I am feeling more and more insignificant then I've ever felt. I have not been as faithful. I am have not been obedient. Thank God for realizations and change. God has been so faithful in my life despite the fact that I haven't. He has blessed me with such beautiful people in my life and I am so thankful for them. Therefore, He deserves all the praise! I am also without my journal right now which is really affecting my mood because I have not been consistent in writing. It is my home. It's where I express myself. I really miss that journal.
I haven't realized how important prayer was until a few days ago. I've never realized how the Holy Sprit can move so powerfully. It was amazing. I believe. I believe.

Overwhelmed.

I am so overwhelmed with joy this morning as Sudan is being set free. I have to admit, I have not been obedient in praying for their salvation but I know several of my friends have. Thank the Lord for such gracious people! Praise Jesus for an amazing turn around in a country surrounded in war, hatred, death and evil. This is very encouraging and I am in tears just in awe of the hope that God provides for His people. WOW. I will start praying for their independence until July which is the official independence month. How glorious is our God! How wonderful is He!

Isaiah 58.

Amen.

I like poetry.

My favorite poem is called I carry your heart by EE Cummings. His words flow together so sweetly and beautifully. I really like it. I even considered getting it tattooed. Anyway, I stumbled upon this one today and I think I may like it more. This one is called I Thank You God for this most amazing. It's so joyful and reminds me how beautiful God's creation is! I admire the way this also paints a picture of how God saves. How he brings life. I really like seeing God through others writing.
Thank you Mr. Cummings. You are quite a character.
Please take time to read this poem. Hope it brings you charm.

“i thank You God for this most amazing
day:for the leaping greenly spirits of trees
and a blue true dream of sky;and for everything
wich is natural which is infinite which is yes
(i who have died am alive again today,
and this is the sun’s birthday;this is the birth
day of life and love and wings:and of the gay
great happening illimitably earth)

how should tasting touching hearing seeing
breathing any-lifted from the no
of all nothing-human merely being
doubt unimaginable You?

(now the ears of my ears awake and
now the eyes of my eyes are opened)”
— i thank you God for this most amazing by E.E. Cummings

Your love is strong.

Currently listening to Jon Foreman at the moment. I am just so blessed to have time to hangout with some really sweet people the last couple of days. I went to a greek restaurant, bowled, made pumpkin pancakes and went thrifting! I bought a sweater and dress for $4.89. My friends mean the world to me and I couldn't be more thankful for the people I have in my life. Each one of them are so unique and they all have different stories and come from different backgrounds. I am thankful for each one of them. We are here for a purpose and God has called us here for each other to lift up, encourage and strengthen us in this life. Oh how He puts people together. It's just part of His perfect plan. Oh how He amazes, Oh how He loves.

I seek beauty in your light, Oh Lord.

baby baby baby.

OH, baby!
Heather had her lil tadpole yesterday at 3:28PM. Even though there wasn't an actual party, Amanda and I definitely excited ourselves before the baby even came out. We danced, screamed and looked at baby pictures all day. I did most of the dancing and screaming. Call me crazy, I love babies. Anyway, after a run to Hobby lobby and Target, we came and met Heather. She looked so beautiful. That girl is a so strong. She didn't rip anything and didn't even shed a tear! Knowing me, I would be crying more than that baby! Heather works at Sonic and she skated while carrying a child. WOAH! She is full of courage and I look up to her for that. Thank God the baby and Heather is healthy and up and running. I pray many blessing upon mother and child and that God continues to love on her family and baby.
Congratulations!

Baby joy!

Mom and baby.

Amanda and baby.

Me and baby.

2 Corinthians 4:16-18

“So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”

We are humans.

We are wasting away our lives daily.

Mortality is real on this Earth.

But with Jesus our Lord of Heaven, there is a light and there is eternal life.

WIth Him, ANYTHING is possible.

Our souls are renewed everyday because Jesus loves us.

We take up the cross everyday as a reminder to how small and insignificant we are compared to Him and His plan for us.

All the things on this Earth is incomparable to His love, His grace, His mercy.

Therefore, I am nothing and my eyes are fixed only to You.

Things that inspire me.

I get easily inspired by lots of things.
Let me share some with you. :)

Jesus is love. He is the reason why I am here. Somebody died for me. He sacrificed His life for my sins. He is love. He is the only one I will follow. He is the reason why I'm alive. He is the reason for the life I have now. He is my God, Savior and He loves me unconditionally. Inspiration? Yes. Because of Jesus, I am able to see Him through other creation that God has created. Amazing? Yes!

Trees are beautiful. Besides statues and buildings, what else can stand that still? That's right, trees! Trees come in so many different sizes and praise the Lord for that kind of beauty! I really admire how some tree trunks are chubby while others are stick skinny. Lovely! My favorite quality about a trees is their ability to stand still. It reminds me of standing still in front of God and obeying His word, obeying Him. Thus, trees inspire me. Leaves are apart of a tree. Therefore, whenever the wind blows and it falls, I always think of God peeling off the layers of our soul in attempt to getting into the root of our core. I also think that leaves are very obedient to the wind. They dance and rejoice as the wind blows them. So beautiful. I always think of how we as Christians follow God and rejoice in His name while singing His name. Inspired much? *Raises my hand*

My friend is pregnant and I can't stop thinking about her because her due date was two days ago. Ridiculous. She should already have her daughter because I am so excited to hold that little tadpole. Where was I going with this? Oh yeah, I am inspired by birth. Birth is such a weird thing. I always think about having a baby and it's so strange picturing myself carrying another human being in your stomach. Well technically not your stomach, but you get the point. A life in your body? Precious! Whenever I think about birth, I always think about how pure and holy that baby is when they come out of their mother's womb. Speechless. Brings me to tears. I've never witnessed watching a real birth but just thinking about it at this very moment makes me choke! Nonetheless, thinking about that moment of new life arriving on this earth amazes me.

Feed my soul with music. Ever since I was in 6th grade, I was motivated by music. It was the only thing that made me happy at that period of my life. Even up to the age of 18. It was the only thing that I loved. It was my only outlet. My only friend. I was and still am the type of music seeker to search for bands that no one has ever heard of. I am absolutely open to every kind of music. If it makes me think, dance, cry, scream, sing along. I'd like it. I'm a lyric listener. I love poetry. And music was my emotional outlet. I have to admit, sometimes I still rely on it but it has strengthened me and it helped me cope with my emotions. Also, songs have stories and it's just so amazing to see that play out in song. I AM THANKFUL FOR YOU, MUSIC!

More inspirational things coming soon!
I need a break. Byeee.

water

How I got into this About six months ago, my best friend told me about this charity called charity:water. She was inspired by how they were saving thousands of lives by providing fresh water to countries around the world who don't have access to clean water. She told me that if you donate $20 to the organization they would provide clean water for a one person for up to 20 years!
Water is essential to life. I was so amazed so I did some research. I remember sitting in the computer lab for 4 hours on a Friday night looking through tons of pictures and videos of dirty water. I learned very quickly that currently, 1 billion people on this Earth don't have access to clean water. That's 1 out of 8 people. Their water consist of E Coli, Hepatitis A, cow manure, pond, dirt, mud.. you get the point. They use this water to cook, bath, and drink. I mean, how do you use your water? Yeah, they use their water for the same reasons you and I do. Only difference is that our water is clear and clean compared to theirs. Dirty water leads to illnesses such as diarrhea which then would lead to face tumors. More severe, life threatening diseases. The life expectancy for people using this water is 38 years old. Children are uneducated because they are spending at least 8 hours a day in search for water. Women are unemployed because they are also spending their finding water. This leads to loss of dignity and loss of hope. They carry their water in Jerry cans (Yes, the ones you use to hold your gasoline). They carry around bright yellow tanks which hold up to 40-80 lbs.
Enough of all these statistics, charity water donates 100% of the public donations to the people who need it. They have two separate accounts. One for their team and one for water. And you ask, how will these people obtain clean water? Well, Charity: water has teamed up with some friends to help build wells that would feed a whole village! This past year they were able to give 1.4 million people clean water. Amazing. Yet, we still have a long way to go. Praise the Lord for an organization dedicated to saving lives and providing the most essential element to live: clean water.
Meet the man behind all of this. I am so humbled by the creator of charity. His name is Scott Harrison and he is my inspiration. After high school, he joined the party scene and got paid to drink for different companies. He eventually owned a high end club and made millions of money. He had everything. Eventually, he came back to God and became a man of faith. He applied to volunteer or work for many charities but got denied from many of them because of his resume of working as a night club owner. However, one organization accepted him (they had to because he was the only one who applied) and he sailed across the world to take pictures of people who had huge tumors on their faces in hopes of the doctors (who worked with this organization) to perform surgery. Those surgeries did work. However, many, I mean thousands of people were denied from this because they didn't have the time and money. It made Scott furious. So, he did some research and he realized that people were drinking, eating this water that made them terribly sick.

Thus, Charity:water was born.

Self Reflection. I realized that I was taking water for granted; and, that I personally waste gallons of water every day. Feeling like someone was shaking me, I started crying and feeling guilty about how I was taking my life for granted. I felt guilty and awful for using water like I had access to all the water I could possibly imagine. Reality check! Also, another crucial part I forgot to mention was the fact that they take photos of people accepting and drinking their new clean water!! As I was looking through those, I was sobbing and smiling at the same time. You know, whenever you smile really hard and you for some reason you're forcing yourself to stop but you can't, well that's the smile that I smiled every time I see a photo of the day or other pictures of genuine joy and contentment. Looking at those precious children getting water is God giving hope, salvation, joy, LIFE. It is truly amazing to know that these kids will have the possibility to go to school and receive and education. For women, dignity and hope to become leaders in their villages. AMAZING. BREATH TAKING. BEAUTIFUL.

I'm going to do something about this! I was trying to figure out what I could do to give back. I realized that I am currently unemployed and I had bigger plans than just giving $20 for a t-shirt and say I gave somebody 20 years of clean water. I wanted to go out with a bang. So I applied for a position on the Helping Hands Executive board (volunteer organization at school). I got the position that I wanted to plan special events and make charity my focus in the spring. Well, it's almost the spring semester now and I am so thankful, eager, full of joy that God has led me to this point. He has provided me with opportunities to serve Him. He broke my heart and made me realize how insignificant I am and how there are so many out their who are hurting, suffering and dying. I have a purpose. God is so good. He is faithful. He is love. I am deeply inspired by charity: water and Scott Harrison. May you always be in my heart. Excited to see what my ideas have to offer!
Here is the official website: http://www.charitywater.org/ , http://www.charitywater.org/media/videos/media.php

I recommend that you should check theses links out. All of them on the site! Trust me, it's worth it. I mean, if you've made it through reading up to this point. Might as well! :)

Photographs that make me smile. Hope they make you smile too.

All information was found at http://www.charitywater.org/