I look at it this way.  If God sees to it, I will give what I have back to Him, 'cause He IS worthy!

I am a woman with a disability.  Cerebral palsy.  I can't walk but for shorter trips, and that's usually on a pair of crutches.  Otherwise, I use my wheelchair, particularly if I am out runninig around.

My name is Raina Cox.  I live in Boulder, Colorado, in an apartment complex for low income people.  I am forty six years old.  I have been trying to find work, but to no avail: nobody wants you if you are over forty, inexperienced, have no reliable transportation, or disabled. 

I fall into all four categories.  It is frustrating when people tell me that they don't want me, are not interested, or already have enough staff.  REALLY??  Then why even bother putting a "Help Wanted" sign on the window?? It really doesn't make much sense!

Anyway, back to my story.  I do get a small pension every month (my SSDI check; been on disability ever since I can remember); if it were not for that, I'd be in the poorhouse, or worse, on the street.  Yet I am not, so I give God thanks for all that I do have (and that isn't much).

As a way of showing my appreciation to Him, I tithe part of my disability check (10 percent) every month.  I truly believe in Malachi 3 in the Bible, where it tells you to give ten percent of wht's in your storehouse, and if you do, it will be multiplied.  It is the "Law of First Things".  Even if I find change on the ground as I am out in my travels, I put it aside for my tithe, and I give it to God.

God rewards me by letting me have food in my belly, a place to lie my head at night, and a place to call home.  Granted, it isn't the best place to live, but it will do for now.  I am sure God will have something better in store for me down the road; all I have to do is trust in Him, fully and completely, and never give up hope.

I have been known to give just pennies or a few nickels and dimes whenever I tithe, and at times, I feel ashamed, because I feel as if I am robbing God, but God, He knows my heart, and He understands.  I guess that is why God has been so good to me, even in these bad economic times.  I owe all my praise and thanksgiving to God because He does provide for all my needs; I need not worry!

Well, I am going to get ready and do more sidewalk-pounding, in hopes of landing a job that is fairly close to my place.  Wish me all the best and pray that I get it: there's a new Mexican restaurant that opened last week, and they are hiring.  I would like to be a hostess or something.  I'd do anything to work; it is better than sitting around, watching the paint peel off the walls or twiddling my fingers in abject boredom!

~Raina.