I Can Do It!

Philippians 4:12-13
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.

I just finished reading a book titled The Queen of Katwe authored by Tim Crothers. In this true story I met a young woman named Phiona who basically had nothing. She and her family lived in a shack in the slums of Uganda. They were fortunate if they could scrape together one meal a day. Their shack often flooded and left them with even less. Then a man came to the village and taught the children to play chess. Phiona had no idea what chess was, so the teacher had a four year old student show her what the pieces were and how they moved. Then Phiona took off. She embraced the game and before long was competing and winning. Giving her the means to help her family.

Phiona was a sincere, faithful follower of Jesus. She knew what it was to have nothing and knew what it was to have plenty. She took care of her family and continued on her journey as she embraced the gift God bestowed on her. I admit, I was a little uncomfortable as I read about Phiona and her family's living conditions. I felt bad for them. But the more I read of this amazing young lady's life, the more I recognized her incredible faith and determination to serve God. She kept her eyes on Jesus as she used her gift for good.

Phiona's story has stuck with me and reminded me to be thankful, to appreciate what I have, to use my gifts for Jesus, and to seek him in all things. Praise God for people who serve and love Him no matter what!