GOD CAN CARRY US THROUGH TOUGH TIMES

Our nation is going through a tough time right now. So many families are struggling just to put food on the table and buy enough gas just to get to work.

In times like these, we can turn to God, who will hold us in His loving hands and carry us through. I am no stranger to hard times, myself, and have always found Isaiah 41:10 to be so comforting.

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness.

This verse came to mind a lot over the past week as I’ve been working on the Back-to-School Bashes the ministry is sponsoring in Texas, New York and North Carolina. So many people in need, so many children unprepared with even the basics with which to start school. As a mom, myself, it breaks my heart. What must it feel like to not be able to provide for your children? How can I help?

That’s why we have expanded our mission serving needy students and this year will help children in Harlem, Appalachia and San Antonio. Our Back-to-School bashes provide impoverished students with backpacks loaded up with school supplies, free sneakers, haircuts, school physicals—and when we can, bags of food that feeds a family of four for an entire week. Our first “bash” is August 2 in Texas.

But the ministry needs your help. And so this week, I’m going to ask for it.

Just a $20 donation allows us to supply a backpack full of supplies and a pair of sneakers to a needy child. For only $50, we can also provide a free school physical. If you have children of your own, think of this: These gifts may be the only medical care some of these children get this year—or the only pair of shoes they have.

I am reminded of Matthew 25:35-40 For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me.' Then the righteous will answer him, "Lord, when was it that we saw you hungry and gave you food, or thirsty and gave you something to drink? And when was it that we saw you a stranger and welcomed you, or naked and gave you clothing? And when was it that we saw you sick or in prison and visited you?' And the king will answer them, "Truly I tell you, just as you did it to one of the least of these who are members of my family, you did it to me.'

If this touches your heart, and if you can afford to, I hope you will make a donation today. Remember what you make happen for others, God will make happen for you!

Love,
Paula