New to Faith: Allowing God to Transform Your Lifeعينة

## Attitude of Gratitude Our walk with God is not always easy. In fact, it can often be quite difficult. There will be trials and testing, and periods of waiting. But God shared a promise in His Word: “Here on earth, you will have trouble but take heart, I have overcome the world” (John 16:33). What a promise He has for us! I was blessed to go to college but was unable to find a full-time position in my profession after graduation. It was so disheartening. And very frustrating! Lord, how could you lead me through all of this and then leave me? But God never makes mistakes. A mentor shared that God always has a plan. All things work together for good for those who love God (Romans 8:28). I changed my perspective and attitude on waiting. I began to be grateful and thankful in every circumstance because it was the will of God (1 Thessalonians 5:18). God gave me joy and peace as I wait. And one day, I heard God tell me to go. Go out of my country and go to the land He will show me. I heard that I would be a blessing! These words were also shared with Abraham in Genesis 12:1. So I applied for a position in Georgia and came to the United States from the Philippines. His plan is ALWAYS better than anything we could consider for ourselves alone. Ten years ago, I made the journey across the world. Seven years ago, I married my wonderful husband Terry and invited my parents to come to the USA. And while they were in the States, I took them to an apple orchard. Coming up as a young girl yearning for even a rotten apple, God’s provision allowed for me to take my family to an entire orchard of beautiful apples! My dad picked up apples from the ground, and I told him that God has blessed us exceedingly abundantly more than we could ever ask or think (Ephesians 3:20-21). His blessings have allowed for us to pick apples from the tree! God released me from poverty, and He is now using me to bless other kids so they can get out of poverty like I did. I just can’t keep the blessing to myself. I now sponsor 4 kids around the world, and I am excited for them to experience the great love of our Father in Heaven. Now, when I am faced with problems and difficulties in life, I paused and meditate on His words and remember all the things that he has done to me and give Him thanks. Spend some time in reflection and thank the Lord for how He has brought you through life. He will always be there. Prayer: Lord, I am so grateful for the new life You have given me. Thank You for all the things that You have been showing me as I walk my life with You. Teach me how to be thankful in every circumstance and in every season of my life. Always remind me of who You are and who I am to You. I love You. Amen.