Not My Vision but His
Café Menu for Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Today’s Special is: Beyond My Ability
Carefully prepared just for you by your friend, Tonya Couch
Main Ingredient:
I have strength for all things in Christ Who empowers me [I am ready for anything and equal to anything through Him Who infuses inner strength into me; I am self-sufficient in Christ’s sufficiency].
– Philippians 4:13 AMP
Entrée:
When I was asked earlier this year to paint murals on the walls of an orphanage building in the Dominican Republic, the task seemed like a mountain before me. The building was still under construction, the walls were not finished, it would be well over 100 degrees in this location, and I am not an artist! On top of everything, the murals had to be transported in our suitcases, which was another huge obstacle.
I prayed and felt like after much “listening,” we were supposed to make two murals. I had really no idea what to do next, but soon I had three ladies (myself plus my two daughters) volunteering. I found out that when you see the murals on the buildings in New York and other large cities, many of them are painted at home, cut into small sections and permanently placed on the final building with a special adhesive.
Our adventure continued for weeks as we painted over 100 man hours per mural, for months. Many times, I felt the task ahead of us was too big, but I knew if God prompted us to do this, He would give us the ability.
Finally, we had two “masterpieces,” inspired by God, painted with love, ready to transport in our suitcases. One of the paintings was a life sized smiling Jesus. He was playing on the beach surrounded by children with the message, “Although my father and mother forsake me, You will take me up.” (Psalm 27:10)
A few weeks later, on the last day of our mission trip, the murals were finally placed on the finished walls. The effect was breathtaking! The children stood in awe, staring at the beautiful messages the murals presented to them. They were loved and God was happy to be with them, the murals seemed to say.
Children gathered in front of the life sized Jesus and all wanted their photo taken with Him. I could not have fathomed such a success or such a response from the children. I realized that God works with willing hands and gives us the ability to do
Take Out:
Be prepared to say “YES” to the next challenge God lays in front of you. No matter how large or small, He is faithful to equip us with everything we need.
Visit Vision Trust International’s Sponsor a Child page. Pray over a child who speaks to your heart. Perhaps a child shares a birthday with your child? Maybe a child lives in a country where AIDS is rampant? Or perhaps a child is in an area you’ve always wanted to learn more about? Ask God to help you make a commitment as a family to change a child’s life.
Dessert:
Father, I give You myself today, to be Your hands and feet and to love and serve others. Thank You for all You have blessed me with, and help me to pour Your love out to others. In Jesus’ Name I pray, Amen.
© 2012 by Tonya Couch. All rights reserved.
Do you know Jesus Christ as your personal Savior? Pull up a chair… He’s been waiting for you.
Need a refill? Please join us at the Encouragement Café with Luann and Friends.
The conversation at the Café is always hot and fresh. We invite you to listen inas Luann and Friends gather around the table to discuss everyday life.
Comfort food for your soul is always on our menu, and friends are always close enough to hug. We invite you to join us daily, as our writer’s share how the Lord continues to transform them into His glorious image.
Still craving more… Join us as we grow together in grace and truth through our online bible study.
Stop by Encouragement Café and listen as the girls share life. Find podcasts, videos, Bible studies, prayer, resources and daily helpings of hope, laughter and friendship around our table. We've saved a seat just for you!
Originally published Tuesday, 18 February 2014.
SHARE
