Since studying James, I've been praying for opportunities to serve, praying for opportunities to witness my faith, praying for opportunities to love my neighbor, and praying for opportunities to use my gifts. I've also been trying to listen when God speaks and praying that I would be obedient and put my faith into ACTION when I hear God nudging at my heart.
We have dear neighbors who are elderly, and our family has been given the opportunity to serve them tomorrow. I heard God nudge at my heart on Sunday and I ACTED on it! Because of it, we have become "answers to their prayers." I'm so excited because I prayed for an opportunity and shortly thereafter, God provided us an chance to serve, witness our faith, love our neighbor (literally), and use my/our gifts.
Every day, I'm constantly reminding myself to look for these opportunities. While Amaya and I were getting groceries, the woman bagging our groceries smiled at Amaya and Amaya returned her smile with a great big grin and waved good-bye to her. The woman said, "She just brightened my day!" Even in the little things, we can encourage and love others. And if God can use Amaya to brighten someone's day, then He can certainly use me - but only if I listen and obey.