God just spoke to me in the car. I wept. It can’t be the same anymore.

I decided I’m going to give away half of my paycheck and earnings to donations and charity for this year, or for life.

I make 22,200 per year minus taxes. For a youth pastor, that’s a lot. I’m sorry if that’s too candid. I did ask my church to lower my pay (they didn’t). But 1.4 billion people live on less than $1.25 per day. Which means I make fifty times more than most of my dying neighbors.

I’m disgustingly rich. Why do I need 1850 per month? For what exactly? “Better” food and clothes? A slightly comfier place? I feel sick.

I will give $925 every month to a legit cause, or divide it among many. That’s still not very much, but I know some will call me “radical” or a “show-off.” I don’t expect my church or friends or my rich family to understand. God told me, and that’s that.

I’m scared. I don’t even want to do this. I was planning on getting married in the next two years; I’ve been saving for a ring and a house. But I can’t die knowing I could have saved more lives. It’s that simple.

Rules:

1) I will no longer buy food. Including Starbucks (ouch). I have faith God will provide. The church currently gives me half my meals every week. If I miss a meal, that’s more time to pray.

2) I’m walking to work (my church) when possible to save gas money.

3) No more new clothes, gadgets, or excess. I’ll be giving away some stuff for y’all.

4) I’m considering canceling health insurance and my gym membership.

5) I don’t pay rent currently because my church set me up with a house in the ghetto. I believe God will continually provide this way.

6) This is my conviction, so I will not press it on anyone else. It’s possible now my church will fire me since they pay me. That’s fine.

*Edit - 7) I’m giving up my birthdays and holidays. No tangible gifts; only cash so I can donate it.

I need your prayers, friends. Please pray. Thank you.