give – Deidra Deandra

Give Joyfully!

Last week a story on my Facebook feed caught my attention and I’m so glad I took the time to read it. A friend from my church posted a testimony of how God is working in her life and I asked her to share as an encouragement to followers on my blog. She writes…

Give-Joyfully-deidradeandra “So, I have to brag on GOD…
About 8 months ago I found a piece of property out by family/church. I started praying over it every time I drove by and claiming it as mine. Well, a couple months ago, God SUPERNATURALLY provided the money for a down payment (awesome!) and I began the buying process. We agreed on a price and after it was surveyed 3 acres became 4 1/2 at no additional cost to me (super awesome!). I had my closing cost money saved up and ready to go then God told me to give that exact amount to a specific person. I did so joyfully and without hesitation. Today I went to sign paperwork and the seller leans over to the lawyer and says “Ya know what, just waive the closing cost on this one.” !!!!!
I mean, is God not awesome!!! HE HAS ALWAYS BEEN FAITHFUL TO ME AND ALWAYS PROVIDED!
Now, I’m just waiting on a buyer for my house and I know His timing is always perfect.‬”

So my friends, I encourage you to be joyful in those times when He tells you to make a sacrifice, give your last, do without… He is always working in the background, your blessing might be right around the corner; so don’t miss out on the blessings God wants to pour out in your life!

9 Year Old Gives Up Presents for Her Birthday

hope-for-el-salvador5 This weekend I got to design a birthday banner and few other items for a 9 year old’s birthday sleepover. Catherine-Grace’s energy level was at a max and she used just about every word that meant “exciting!”

She loved the decor! I’m assuming though that it was because of all the pink. There was pink EVERYWHERE; quite a norm for little girls. However, what was so different about her party was this little girl decided to forego presents for herself and instead, asked all her friends to bring gifts for kids in El Salvador. A special part of her birthday sleepover was dedicated to sharing the importance of giving and then packing boxes for Hope for El Salvador’s Christmas Shoebox Drive.

hope-for-el-salvador1 hope-for-el-salvador4 hope-for-el-salvador3

It was so great to be a part of it as I watched the joy in all the girls as they did it. They were so happy to know that some girl in El Salvador would be getting a present and note from them. There is so much I could say to give you an encouraging “what are you doing with your life” message because of what Catherine-Grace did, but I’ll let it speak to you in its own way.

Check out Hope for El Salvador’s Christmas Shoebox Drive video on Facebook to see how you can give.

Let us change the way we do Christmas… and Birthdays!