"We grew up in poverty..."

"I am the eldest of five siblings, and we grew up in poverty. When I graduated, I immediately looked for a job to help our parents. I worked at a bank for four years, but life was still difficult because our debts continued to pile up.

Wanting to support my family, I resigned and went to Manila to apply abroad so that my siblings could continue their studies. While I was waiting for my application abroad, I had no job, my savings ran out, and this is where I experienced depression, especially when I found out that I was not granted the petition visa of the company I was supposed to work for.

My mother was also frequently called to the barangay because of our debts. This made me anxious because I did not know how I could help my family.

Eventually, my sister invited me to the Universal Church, where I regularly heard teachings about faithfulness to God through tithes and offerings. I began to understand the importance of honoring God. I learned that tithing is not just about giving 10%, but about giving God the first 10%. I also learned that the way we live our lives should be an offering to Him.

I surrendered my life to God and made a vow to Him, saying, "Lord, I want to glorify You. I want to give my tithes and offerings. Open a door for me, and I will be faithful to You."

My prayer was answered shortly after. Someone asked me if I wanted to work at her canteen in Malate while waiting for another job opportunity. I accepted the offer, and when I received my salary, I fulfilled my vow to God by giving my tithes and offerings.

Not long after, a company from the province contacted me and informed me that they were hiring. I returned home to apply, and I was hired. God also worked amazingly because the partial down payment I had made for my overseas job application was returned to me.

God continued to bless my life. The company I joined was located in our barangay, so I did not have many expenses. After just four months of working there, I was offered a promotion. Aside from the promotion and monetary incentives, I was also able to receive an incentive abroad.

I saw God's faithfulness in my life and in my family. My siblings now have their own jobs, and we have gradually paid off our debts.

We were also able to renovate our old and damaged house. Aside from financial blessings, God also blessed other aspects of my life. My family is now united in faith, my marriage is blessed, and above all, God filled me with His Holy Spirit.

When we put God first in our lives and honor Him through the way we live, He blesses us beyond our expectations. This is because the God we serve is faithful and just."

— April Quintero