Last year I wrote a post about Akugbey. He's the little boy that I have been sponsoring for over a year now in Africa through Compassion International. Through this sponsorship I have been able to celebrate two birthdays with him, seen him grow and mature, read his letters of thankfulness and prayed over his struggles and requests. I have stepped out of myself and seen the bigger picture of what God means when He tells us to "give generously."
Since moving to New York I have learned what it means to live on a budget. But more importantly what I've learned is that God is faithful to financially provide enough to make ends meet each month. (More often than not, usually does not mean being able to purchase those super cute suede ruffle mary jane heels I want from JCrew.) When I first began sponsoring Akugby I was living in Dallas - I had no idea how rich I was at the time! Now, in New York, my rent has doubled, I live in a City obsessed with appearances and dining out, abundant shopping opportunities creep on every corner, and the average cocktail price is usually at least $12.
I knew all of these expenses came along with moving here and I was ok with that. But I did force myself to make a conscious decision that I would always forgo a meal out or a new dress so that I could continue supporting Akugby. (For those of you who know me, materialism is kinda my thing. So this is sometimes harder than it may sound.)
The point of this post is this Christmas Compassion has asked sponsors to pray for a child that is currently waiting to be sponsored. I received Nisya, and y'all she's cute! She is 6 years old, lives in Indonesia with her father and her mother. Making beds is her household duty and she loves playing with dolls.
I know at the end of the month I will not be able to financially support Nisya. But I also know that God works through people. Therefore I have committed the next 30 days to pray - for her development, her family, her health, her faith, and ultimately for the lucky individual that will one day sponsor her.
My pastor often says, Live simply so others can simply live. The sweet letters, the drawings, the progress reports, and the pictures I receive from Akugbey outweigh the $38 I forfeit each month. And I know that $38 means more to him then it ever could to me.
* If you are intrested in supporting Nisya please let me know so I can mail you a picture of her with all her information.
Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own. 2 Corinthians 8:2-3
