Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. (Proverbs 3:5 KJV)
During times of turmoil in the economy, it was easy to look at the once occupied and now empty desks in an office building and allow feelings of insecurity to overtake us. Thoughts such as: What if it happens to me next? How will my family survive if no businesses are hiring? If I put all my energy and strength into working longer hours, indeed, my position will be secure.
As I walked through my own office, my eyes darted towards each desk, anticipating future changes in the staff. Many familiar smiling faces of colleagues no longer greeted me after nearly a decade of comradeship. The layoffs had not impacted me, except for the struggle to maintain the mounting workload.
The pressure was unbearable because I focused on the circumstances. Exhausted, I neglected to take time for the Lord and was void of God’s peace and strength because I no longer depended upon Him. I trusted in a job, and it became an idol.
Then fear became a reality. I joined the ranks of the unemployed. I stood behind the paper-filled desk in shock and grasped the desk to steady wobbly legs. With tear-filled eyes, my voice stumbled as I searched for words of acknowledgment.I blankly stared in disbelief. Why did I think I would avoid trials and heartache? Besides, the rain falls on the just and unjust. We all will have troubles and tribulations.
Quickly I repented, and a deep belief in God’s promises of provision comforted me. Miraculously, it did not destroy as feared. When I trustingly turned to God, he granted me strength and courage for each day as He promises. When you love the Lord and live your life according to His purpose, He works all things for your good. Jehovah-Jireh is a fantastic provider, and all good things are from Him.
We do not know all the trials or splendor ahead, but be confident God provides the way for those who believe. Our most devastating ordeals turn into our most appreciated miracles if we allow Him to plan the details of our lives. Blessings are grander than our wildest dreams.
Prayer:
Dear Lord, I know you are in control even when it feels like the world is falling apart. The creator of the universe is all-powerful, while I have little power. As immense as the vast skies are your power and authority, they have no confines. Help me to contemplate the magnitude of what you, God, can accomplish in my life when I surrender. I desire to always place you first in my life and find comfort and delight that you are my strength when I am insecure and weak.
Your turn, is it difficult for you to step out in faith and believe God for the seemingly impossible miracle?
Blessings, Evelyn Collins
Evelyn lives in sun-drenched Florida with her husband, where they enjoy outdoor life most of the year. She grew up near the ECU campus in North Carolina, with its sprawling lush grounds of giant trees, before moving to the Outer Banks with its lovely beaches, stunning sunrises, and sunsets. She finds solitude with God immersed in nature, photography, and writing.
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