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A
I'm sorry to hear about your truck misadventure. If I was in your shoes, I would have taken me about 5 minutes to reach the point of bitterness. You seem to be looking at it better than I would have.
But we do have a choice whether to lose hope and settle for bitterness (not saying you are!) or to push on and push on through (which you did). You may see the scenario with the homeless man as a gesture with a temporary effect, but in that moment, you revealed to him a piece of Christ in you. Don't be disheartened with the instant response by this man, it may be seed that is watered and harvested in the future. Or maybe one day you perform the one act of kindness that provoked the revelation in someone that they need what you have in you. Christ.
You're not invisible. The homeless man took part in your life when you helped him. The man wasn't invisible to you as you helped. Those people on the road may not have taken full recognition of what you were doing and what you were going through, but in hard situations where you are pushing through life, are you still willing to persevere?... and even so, in love despite what others do? You did keep going. I would have been muttering nasty stuff like, "Go EAT soggy tooth paste TACOS" under my breath, or something.
You're a kind and thoughtful person, kenthomas27, I'm glad you shared your stories so that even though I wasn't there to 'see' you, you revealed your heart here so I could 'see' from afar those very acts of kindness. And please be encouraged... continue to do those amazing helpful things, even to little chipmunks! Hahaha. We need more people like you. If we all went forth about our daily lives, actively loving and helping the people around us, how much more of God's Kingdom can we spread through our neighbourhoods, our cities, our states?
But we do have a choice whether to lose hope and settle for bitterness (not saying you are!) or to push on and push on through (which you did). You may see the scenario with the homeless man as a gesture with a temporary effect, but in that moment, you revealed to him a piece of Christ in you. Don't be disheartened with the instant response by this man, it may be seed that is watered and harvested in the future. Or maybe one day you perform the one act of kindness that provoked the revelation in someone that they need what you have in you. Christ.
You're not invisible. The homeless man took part in your life when you helped him. The man wasn't invisible to you as you helped. Those people on the road may not have taken full recognition of what you were doing and what you were going through, but in hard situations where you are pushing through life, are you still willing to persevere?... and even so, in love despite what others do? You did keep going. I would have been muttering nasty stuff like, "Go EAT soggy tooth paste TACOS" under my breath, or something.
You're a kind and thoughtful person, kenthomas27, I'm glad you shared your stories so that even though I wasn't there to 'see' you, you revealed your heart here so I could 'see' from afar those very acts of kindness. And please be encouraged... continue to do those amazing helpful things, even to little chipmunks! Hahaha. We need more people like you. If we all went forth about our daily lives, actively loving and helping the people around us, how much more of God's Kingdom can we spread through our neighbourhoods, our cities, our states?
A
I'm sorry to hear about your situation, iTore. Sometimes seasons in life that are painful can take us through a rude humbling process. Well, rude in timing, but I believe this - yours is the Kingdom of Heaven. 'Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven.'
I may not have walked in your shoes, but let me tell you a bit about where I have been.
Before I was saved, I was studying at University full time, renting a room from my brother and working weekends. There were times where I wouldn't eat a meal, or for an entire day, because I earned very little, and I was too proud to ask for food from people. Half way through my last year of University, I was saved. After my studies, and without any direction about how or where I should seek a full time job, I had a mild argument with my brother, but even so, knew it was time to pack all my belongings in my car and leave. I drove 15 minutes until I reached a car park in front of a beach, sat there, and cried. I was homeless.
But looking back now, in that moment, I was rich. I had wealth beyond measure, because I was about to see a side of God I would never have come to love and understand unless I was in a state of complete financial, situational, emotional and spiritual humility. I was a mess and so was my situation. Although there were tears flowing as I was feeling sorry for myself, I had tears of joy. In my car, I cried out, "Thank you God for your providential hand in this situation," and I gave thanks for all He would do for me before I even saw it.
So, miracles happened, I had a full time job for my qualifications just placed on my lap, my car died, and a 2 year old sports model car became mine at a ridiculous price, I can travel and spend time away on trips, I have money saved for an over seas trip, I own designer brand clothing... all these things, this life I live, I never would have even dreamed of living. And I'm not talking about the material things to boast of material things, but when you give God what little you have, and most of all, you give Him your trust - He can do wonders with it. I boast in what He is able to do.
I think, most of all, God wanted to teach me what it means to trust Him not just in an emotional sense, such as trusting Him with my heart, but to trust Him to take care of me in my needs, and that He has a heart of a Father that just can't wait to bless us.
Plus, I remember a time my old friend was in financial struggle, and because I was so immensely blessed, I took part in supporting her with what had already been given to me. You know what? I got such a kick from giving. And its funny, because she was the pastor's daughter who could quote all the scriptures about giving, but had such a hard time in receiving. She used the same words you did, 'burden'. But be glad and receive with that beautiful, thankful heart of yours. I'm sure you know how nice it feels to give, be thankful you're helping people feel good about giving, and receive!
So don't lose hope, hold on to that promise of yours! I can't wait to see the other end of this situation, continue to persevere, and while you're at it, share with all of us what the Lord is teaching you through this time! I love people's stories and I like learning from other people.
I'm glad that you are experiencing that peace and love during these times. Hearing that you are holding on to these things even in your situation is encouraging, iTore. And please stay. Seriously... because I said so.
I may not have walked in your shoes, but let me tell you a bit about where I have been.
Before I was saved, I was studying at University full time, renting a room from my brother and working weekends. There were times where I wouldn't eat a meal, or for an entire day, because I earned very little, and I was too proud to ask for food from people. Half way through my last year of University, I was saved. After my studies, and without any direction about how or where I should seek a full time job, I had a mild argument with my brother, but even so, knew it was time to pack all my belongings in my car and leave. I drove 15 minutes until I reached a car park in front of a beach, sat there, and cried. I was homeless.
But looking back now, in that moment, I was rich. I had wealth beyond measure, because I was about to see a side of God I would never have come to love and understand unless I was in a state of complete financial, situational, emotional and spiritual humility. I was a mess and so was my situation. Although there were tears flowing as I was feeling sorry for myself, I had tears of joy. In my car, I cried out, "Thank you God for your providential hand in this situation," and I gave thanks for all He would do for me before I even saw it.
So, miracles happened, I had a full time job for my qualifications just placed on my lap, my car died, and a 2 year old sports model car became mine at a ridiculous price, I can travel and spend time away on trips, I have money saved for an over seas trip, I own designer brand clothing... all these things, this life I live, I never would have even dreamed of living. And I'm not talking about the material things to boast of material things, but when you give God what little you have, and most of all, you give Him your trust - He can do wonders with it. I boast in what He is able to do.
I think, most of all, God wanted to teach me what it means to trust Him not just in an emotional sense, such as trusting Him with my heart, but to trust Him to take care of me in my needs, and that He has a heart of a Father that just can't wait to bless us.
Plus, I remember a time my old friend was in financial struggle, and because I was so immensely blessed, I took part in supporting her with what had already been given to me. You know what? I got such a kick from giving. And its funny, because she was the pastor's daughter who could quote all the scriptures about giving, but had such a hard time in receiving. She used the same words you did, 'burden'. But be glad and receive with that beautiful, thankful heart of yours. I'm sure you know how nice it feels to give, be thankful you're helping people feel good about giving, and receive!
So don't lose hope, hold on to that promise of yours! I can't wait to see the other end of this situation, continue to persevere, and while you're at it, share with all of us what the Lord is teaching you through this time! I love people's stories and I like learning from other people.
I'm glad that you are experiencing that peace and love during these times. Hearing that you are holding on to these things even in your situation is encouraging, iTore. And please stay. Seriously... because I said so.
I
Thanks Monica & Arlene. I was telling Monica this the other day & I've shared it with many in the past year. The one thing I hate the most about the situation I'm in now,is not even going days w/out food,or having to live with a friend,or not having a job,or being in a place I don't really wanna spend the rest of my life in...the thing that really bothers me daily,is not being able to help people around me that could use my help. I don't even have 'stuff' to give people anymore,let alone help them financially. Even when I wasn't a member of a church & tithing weekly,I have always been in a place to give & help people out.
I know people that live states away across the country that need help watching their kids,or painting their deck,or help moving,and I can't even assist them due to my current situation. It's frustrating to say the least. I must say,I hate having to always give thing's to God...I feel like "Is this all I can do for anyone ,Lord is pray for them...this is lame!"
Yes,I actually say stuff like that to Him. That's how I feel. I pray anyways,believing He has it all under control,and I know He does. I just feel pretty darn useless,and I suppose that results in a mini pity party for myself sometimes.
I know people that live states away across the country that need help watching their kids,or painting their deck,or help moving,and I can't even assist them due to my current situation. It's frustrating to say the least. I must say,I hate having to always give thing's to God...I feel like "Is this all I can do for anyone ,Lord is pray for them...this is lame!"
Yes,I actually say stuff like that to Him. That's how I feel. I pray anyways,believing He has it all under control,and I know He does. I just feel pretty darn useless,and I suppose that results in a mini pity party for myself sometimes.
Hey Itorethesky,
Sounds like you are in a frustrating place right now. I tend to be someone who finds my value in what I accomplish so I want to share a bit of wisdom with you.
God made you a human being not a human doing.
It tough to feel like you have nothing to offer or no way to help out, but you are where God has placed you and he is working in and through you in ways you are not fully aware of. Until I'm ready to have my own minions just be content in being one of God's minions
Sounds like you are in a frustrating place right now. I tend to be someone who finds my value in what I accomplish so I want to share a bit of wisdom with you.
God made you a human being not a human doing.
It tough to feel like you have nothing to offer or no way to help out, but you are where God has placed you and he is working in and through you in ways you are not fully aware of. Until I'm ready to have my own minions just be content in being one of God's minions
I'm selfish.... I'm glad you're sticking around because as a friend you have a part in brightening my day most every day. I've met so many good people here on CC and you're one of them. I'm sorry things are rough right now. Weeping endures for a night but joy comes in the morning........ maybe not literally tomorrow morning..but one of these mornings ... maybe it'll even include cupcakes.
I've met so many good people here on CC and you're one of them. I'm sorry things are rough right now. Weeping endures for a night but joy comes in the morning........ maybe not literally tomorrow morning..but one of these mornings ... maybe it'll even include cupcakes.
so I take the kids to Fresh Choice for dinner, which is kind of a buffet style restaurant with a great salad bar, soups and other assorted items (like baked potato or really bad pizza). We get waters with our dinner, but when I return to the table with some clam chowder, I notice my daughter has a coke. She had forgotten that we just had waters and helped herself. On the way out, I offer to pay for it, but the cashier just kind of waved me off. My girls did that really annoying eye roll thing and mumbled about annoying morals. meh
N
In a matter of days it seems like everything i felt was important has been taken. And the only way i know how to deal with it is to sleep.
I can't bring myself to see anyone because then they'll ask what's wrong. How would i tell them i feel like my chest is going to explode without being taken to a hospital.
Tomorrow my friend is driving me to another state because i'm not sure i could make it there on my own. I'll be staying with some of my family
While laying in the bed either sleeping or doing some weird staring thing i have learned 3 important things
-After 2 or 3 days without showering, you smell like crap. Literally....people will think you've crapped yourself.
-If a person/people don't care they don't care. Nothing will change that.
-Don't fall asleep with gum in your mouth
I can't bring myself to see anyone because then they'll ask what's wrong. How would i tell them i feel like my chest is going to explode without being taken to a hospital.
Tomorrow my friend is driving me to another state because i'm not sure i could make it there on my own. I'll be staying with some of my family
While laying in the bed either sleeping or doing some weird staring thing i have learned 3 important things
-After 2 or 3 days without showering, you smell like crap. Literally....people will think you've crapped yourself.
-If a person/people don't care they don't care. Nothing will change that.
-Don't fall asleep with gum in your mouth
I'm sorry to hear you're going through something like this, Nod. I can think of a couple things that this might be about but I won't ask out of respect for you're not wanting people to ask. You can PM me if you want to, but I won't push you to. I really hate that someone or something has hurt you like this. I'll be praying for you. God bless.
I'll be praying for you. God bless.