Crazy Love

I am currently reading this book called Crazy Love by Francis Chan. If you have never read it, I HIGHLY recommend it. Now, I am not usually one to say that books are "life-changing" for me, but this book has challenged me in new ways never imagined before. The book is mainly about what it means to be madly in love with our Creator. As I read this book, I begin to notice how many things I let go un-noticed. For example, did you know that there are about 3,000 different species of trees within one square mile of the Amazon jungle? I sure didn't. I am far too guilty of letting the beauty of my surroundings go un-noticed. I am guilty of a lot of things. God certainly didn't have to put 3,000 different species of trees within this one square mile of the jungle, but He did. He had a reason for doing so, and that is miraculous. Just as He has a reason for each and every one of us to be here.

Another area I have been challenged in is the area of being a cheerful giver. Another thing I find myself guilty of is not always being faithful in my tithing. The verse Malachi 3:10 states " 'Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, so that there may be food in My house, and test Me now in this,' says the Lord of hosts, 'if I will not open for you the windows of heaven and pour out for you a blessing until it overflows.'" How crazy is it that HE allows US to test Him??? We should be the ones tested, but this is the one place in the Bible that He challenges us to give cheerfully and test His faithfulness. Speaking of testing, at the moment I am stressing about how I am going to get financial aid for my classes in the fall, let alone my classes in the spring. The whole process of being awarded anything has been very time consuming and complicated. I was told that my award letter would come Friday, but have yet to receive anything or get any answers from anyone. The main reason I am worried is because my tuition is due on Wednesday! I am having faith that the Lord will provide, and trying my best to leave it to Him. But as most of you I'm sure are aware of, the flesh part of me is struggling with this. Prayers GREATLY appreciated!!!!

As of tomorrow, due to getting my finances more organized so that I can practice being a cheerful giver, I have made a new budget that I will begin following. First thing I will do once I get paid, is set aside my money to give to the church. I am praying that I experience much growth and discipline in this. I am praying that I can wholeheartedly give of my time, energy, and money. I am praying that daily His love overwhelms me!

Hope you all are having a wonderful week so far! Much love!!!