FAITH

We live by faith, not by sight
2 Corinthians 5:7

I feel that God has been teaching me, not only these last 6 months, but all of 2011, to step out in faith and trust in Him.
Here's a recent story;

On sunday (Feb. 12), Pastor Oscar asked the congregation to give $5 to go towards the new renovations in the church. I looked in my wallet and found a 5 dollar bill. But that had to last me another week. I wanted to put my wallet away and save that money, but God had other plans. He told me to give it anyways and trust in Him, so I did. The rest of the week, the Canadian team payed for anything I needed. Snacks, drinks, and even a surf board rental and lessen! But thats not all... The next sunday (Feb. 19), when the team was leaving, a couple of them walked up to me and said they wanted to talk to me. They told me that they were pleased with my driving and happy for my help these last 2 weeks and they wanted to give me something... A gift from God. They told me that they made this decision as a team, and they gave me 100 dollars...
I gave 5 bucks to God, and he gave me 100 back. God provides.
Matthew 6:25-34 - read it.

But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these other things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:33

Jesus replied, “I tell you the truth, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only can you do what was done to the fig tree, but also you can say to this mountain, ‘go throw yourself into the sea,’ and it will be done. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Matthew 21:21-22

Man up!

I feel like God has been trying to teach me to “man up”. To be bold in who I am in Christ. To stand up for what I believe in.
In the past, I never belittled my faith, but when someone attacked it, I never stood up for what I believed. I would take the hit and walk away. Im not saying that I am looking to fight or debate someone about my beliefs now, I just want people to know I wont back down. I wont be pushed over as easily as I used to be. I will stand up for what I believe. I will stand up for my faith. It is my prayer that God will give me the courage and the boldness to “man up”. To not be afraid of anyone, but to let them know what I believe and why I believe it.
Paul wrote this letter to Titus;

Similarly, encourage the young men to be self-controlled. In everything, set them an example by doing what is good. In your teaching show integrity, seriousness and soundness of speech that cannot be condemned, so that those who oppose you may be ashamed because they have nothing bad to say about us.
Titus 2:6-8