As many of y’all know hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico pretty hard to say the least. What y’all might not know is the church I attend has a partner church in Aibonito that was devastated by this storm. I knew things were pretty bad especially in Aibonito, but I had no idea the extent of the damage until I started seeing photos and videos show up online. As I was looking at the photos and videos I was wrecked emotionally… I knew there are things I could be doing to help, but I don’t have the funds to go and I didn’t know how I could even begin. All I knew was looking at those photos and videos of complete devastation day after day and hearing stories about how much help is needed I knew I needed to go, but I still kept asking and wondering the question I struggle with so much HOW?
A few weeks passed and a few church members and I were following the stories of what was happening in Aibonito and we started planning a trip to go down and help. I was immediately on board, but wasn’t sure how I could go with my finances. The plane ticket alone was going to be approx. $360 not including food and any other expenses that would come up. So, I began praying… a lot, I knew that God was calling me to go but I didn’t have that much money for the plane ticket. I decided to take a leap of faith and purchase the plane ticket trusting that God would provide the money needed to cover the rest of my bills.
I knew I had a few things around my apartment I had been trying to sell for a few months, but wasn’t having any luck. The main item I wanted to sell was my crossbow, but I didn’t hadn’t had any luck for about four months so why would someone want it now? I felt God calling me to reach out to a few people in hopes of trying selling it again, but I was still doubting that I would sell it. What I didn’t realize was that by doubting I could sell the crossbow I was doubting that God was able to do things I’m not capable of. Even with my doubts I decided to text a few of my friends and see if they wanted it. Within a few hours one of my friends texted me back and said they wanted to buy the bow from me and gave me $50 more than I was asking for it… I was blown away, shocked and amazed at how great God is and how he provides for all of our needs even in times when we doubt him. The price of the plane ticket was $360 and my friend was generous enough to give me $350 for the crossbow when I was only asking $300 for it. In that moment not only was my plane ticket to Puerto Rico pretty much covered, but I was reminded or something even greater…. I don’t need to doubt God even when the situation seems impossible. So, I have a question for you today.
Do you doubt God? I’m here to tell you today that if you struggle with doubting God at times you don’t have to. God has the ability to move in mighty and REAL ways in our lives IF we are willing to let him. This trip to Puerto Rico is a great example of God working in my life when I set aside my pride and give him control. I encourage all of you today to set aside your doubt and worries and let God have control. My latest life motto has been “Let go and let God”. So, I’ll ask it again… Do you doubt God? What if instead of doubting God you “Let go and let God” … would your life be any different? I know my answer is yes, is yours?
I ask that you please pray for Puerto Rico as well as our partner church. Please also pray for my team and I as we go down to do what little bit get can.
I will also be posting a blog after the trip to fill y’all in on how everything went and how God moved during our short time down there. In the meantime, if you feel lead to support me on the World Race please do so through prayer and by clicking the donate button on the top of the page.
In Christ,
Cody
