Don't Get Distracted.

(I just posted this on my photo blog, so if you already read that, my apologies for the double post.)

It's easy to get distracted by things of this world and forget to talk to God. Don't let material possessions or other people stop you from spending quality time with your Savior. He's your King, Father, and Shepherd. Give him your life and commit to serve him selflessly. It's so worth it!

If you try to hang on to your life, you will lose it. But if you give up your life for my sake and for the sake of the Good News, you will save it. -Mark 8:35 {New Living Translation}

Practical Ways to Help?

I've always struggled to find practical ways to help people in need. I know that God has called believers to pray for each other, (Ephesians 6:18) and that prayer produces powerful results (James 5:16).

Pray at all times (on every occasion, in every season) in the Spirit, with all [manner of] prayer and entreaty. To that end keep alert and watch with strong purpose and perseverance, interceding in behalf of all the saints (God's consecrated people). -Ephesians 6:18 {Amplified Bible}

Confess to one another therefore your faults (your slips, your false steps, your offenses, your sins) and pray [also] for one another, that you may be healed and restored [to a spiritual tone of mind and heart]. The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]. -James 5:16 {Amplified Bible}

But I wish there was more I could do to alleviate physical pain and suffering and soothe emotional wounds for individuals all over the world who are less fortunate than myself. Do you feel a similar tugging in your heart?

There's so much need and in all honesty, it's overwhelming. Yet, in the midst of all the confusion, pain and suffering in this world, God's in control and He's working even when we can't see the results. 

Paul understood the way God works. He said, "I planted the seed in your hearts, and Apollos watered it, but it was God who made it grow." -1 Corinthians 3:6 {New Living}

Clearly God uses each and every one of us in different ways to lead people to Himself. We may never see the fruit of our labor, but God is using us; we can be sure of that.

So do you have any ideas? How can poor college students who can't even pay for their college education on their own minister to the needy people of India, Latvia, and Cambodia, among others? I'd love to do something big like writing a song or selling my photographs and giving the proceeds to an organization, and I've always wanted to sponsor a child through Compassion or World Vision but I've never had a consistent job so that's nearly impossible at the moment.

Jennifer, Jhen and Rylie's project, Compassion's Cry has inspired and encouraged me to act now. I'm just in need of practical ideas for what to do. Any ideas or suggestions you have are much appreciated. Thanks so much!

Together we can impact this world for Christ through prayer and acts of love!

In Christ,

Jessica