Our adoption journey dramatically shifted our worldview. We no longer knew there was a harsh and tragic world out there, but we actually experienced it up close and personal. For when we stepped into an orphanage or entered a care facility, neglect and the feeling of being unloved was everywhere. Numerous children stood there staring up at us with eyes that seemed to say, "Hurry take me!" These little eyes pierced our souls and left us asking what more could we do for these children?

Yes, it is painful to look into the eyes of a child and know they may never be adopted. However, we are grateful for this perspective because it drives us to change the world one child at a time. Our own children have experienced what the Bible talks about in Philippians 4:12 when it says, "I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty . . . " This is something most of us adults could benefit from. A perspective shift enabling us to look past our world's we have created and into the reality of this world . . . to the reality of what we can do to make a difference through God's strength.

Often times, people close their eyes to the sufferings of this world in order to relieve the stress of having to do something to help. However, this is more harmful than not. For all of us were created with a giving soul, a sharing spirit and a loving heart. To ignore this is to ignore what God has done for us. It is up to us to utilize our gifts with God's leading. I Peter 4:10 states, "Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace in its various forms." Looking at this verse it is very clear. There is no opt out button. We all have been given various gifts and we all must use them. For they are a GIFT, they do not belong to us, God has given us a GIFT, we are to use it.

What an amazing privilege it is . . . the God of this universe has given us all gifts we can use to bless others. We are being used by Him to bring His will "on earth as it is in heaven." Here at ROW, we cannot think of a greater responsibility or calling in this lifetime. Used By God . . . think about that statement, let it linger in your mind for a while. We are certain that once you grasp the greatness of this concept, you will no longer hesitate to use your gifts to bless others. You will begin to search for opportunities to get involved, to impact another's life . . . you will not be able to stop blessing others.

Why We Are Grateful For The Perspective