DIRECTIONS
A remarkable, 150-year-old red oak tree near the entrance of a Michigan university had welcomed visitors for years…until one windy day in July when it crashed to the ground. The grounds director noticed little shoots coming up around the tree and acorns still attached to the tree’s roots. He harvested some of the seedlings and transplanted them. Today, one fills the hole the original oak left behind.
Sometimes the storms of life threaten to take out even the strongest trees. But God has a plan. Psalm 9:9 says, “The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.” Here are three ways you can thrive in the face of adversity:
- Ask God to give you perspective for your situation and to help you stand strong.
- Caring for someone else can help shift our focus. Volunteer your time or choose someone to bless today and see how it blesses you, too.
- Practice generosity. Giving of your resources or assets is another way to adjust your perspective. Consider exploring creative ways you can impact someone else through giving. You may find it becomes a source of worship, empowerment, and excitement.
When you give a legacy gift to the UMRC Foundation or Porter Hills Foundation, you can be certain it will dig deep roots and spring up strong, impacting lives for generations to come.
To learn more about the UMRC Foundation, contact Melissa Goodson, Major Gifts Officer, at 734-417-9018 or mgoodson@umrc.com or visit christianwill.org/umrc/
For more information about the Porter Hills Foundation, contact Joanna Hogan, Vice President of Philanthropy, at 616-577-2297 or jhogan@porterhills.org or visit christianwill.org/porterhills/
Wishing you a Happy Thanksgiving from the UMRC Foundation and Porter Hills Foundation!