Still Providing

“And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.” Romans 8:28

God is so amazing! Just when you’ve lost all hope, or thought you had, He shows up. Even in the time you think you are all alone, His light shines.

Several years ago I was going through an extremely difficult time. Within a 16-month period, I lost a job that I loved, became ill, was denied unemployment, was told I had to move from the home I’d lived in for 13 years with my children, injured myself, totaled my car, became homeless, ended up in the hospital for a week and lost both my parents.

BUT…during that time God was with me through it all. Even though I did not recognize it was Him, He walked through every bit of it with me.

Just when I was going to be out of money…He provided a temporary job.

Just as I was about to be homeless…He provided a place to stay.

Just as I injured myself…He provided the means to get it fixed, without cost to me.

When I had no vehicle…He provided one, just in time.

When I was hospitalized…He provided rest and an answer regarding my illness.

When we were homeless…He still provided a tent and an income to pay for a space, food and gas.

When my parents were dying…He provided the open door and means for me to care for them, settle our outstanding issues, and gave me the opportunity to say goodbye without regrets. To send them home to HIM. If I’d still had my job and home, I would never have gone to be with my parents. God knew that. It was one of the greatest gifts I could have ever received. I got to send my parents home without regrets.

I know the Father would have preferred that I responded to His request to go and care for my parents without question. But He also knew what it would take to get me to go. Even though I did not take the easy way, He still provided for me all along the way.

He will do the same for you. We all have choices to make. We can take the easy road and look to Him for direction, and even though we may still have problems, they are easier when we are listening and following His lead. Or we can tune Him out, go our own way and miss the blessings He has for us. Either way, God’s purposes will be accomplished—with or without our cooperation. Which way will you choose?

Father, forgive me for not listening and following when You lead. Help me to see Your provision and blessings even—NO, ESPECIALLY—in the hard times. Thank You for always providing exactly what I need when I need it.  Amen.