“And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” Philippians 4:19 NIV
Last week was full of surprises for me. Anyone who knows me knows that I am a fan of surprises, particularly good surprises! It’s the thoughtfulness and the unexpectedness for me. I become so humbled and filled with glee that someone thought of me enough to go out of their way and spend time, energy, and resources on little ole me just because.
Some of last week’s surprises included a spot opening up so I was able to get my first dose of the vaccine. #Hallelujah My best friend surprised me with a care package during her birthday week. #BestieGoals I also reconnected with an old friend who poured so much into me lifting my soul. #SoulSisters Every other day last week felt like God was blessing me in ways He knew I needed. So much so that by Wednesday when I received the care package, I thought, “ok, God -- what else are you going to do this week?!?”
In Matthew 6:6, Jesus said, “‘But when you pray, go into your room, close the door and pray to your Father, who is unseen. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.’” I’m not going to lie, I was having some angst about my ability to access the vaccine. I can’t recall if I specifically prayed about that, but it was a longing of my heart. The sort of thing that is hidden and secret that God sees, and that the Holy Spirit intercedes for. (Matthew 6:6, Romans 8:26)
That’s the beauty of God. He knows what we need even before we know. He knows the things that we desire and because He’s so good, He delivers for us. And quite honestly, He delivers in ways that we neither anticipate nor expect. Meaning if we would have orchestrated, it would have looked differently. This is why He’s God and we are not; He knows what is best and when!
Last week also held the type of surprise that I don’t like -- I call them bad surprises. I received notice of an incident that required my immediate attention and leadership. It was something I had never dealt with before and the magnitude of what occurred caused me to shed tears. Thankfully, I had been in prayer that morning and specifically asked God to “allow me to accomplish His will for the day and give me all that I need to execute it.” After my tears, and a silent prayer of “Lord, help me.,” I truly believe the Lord gave me the action steps to resolve the issue better and quicker than if I had relied on myself. On that day, in that moment, God surprised me with the wisdom and reminders of resources at my disposal to address the challenge.
What about you? What are the secret things in your heart that you don’t say, but boy, if God made a move you’d be elated? What are the longings big and small you’re hoping manifest in your life? What issues or challenges do you have to face but don’t know where to start? Or think you don’t have the strength or wherewithal to accomplish it?
Whatever it is, please know that our loving Father will supply your needs. Even in the “bad” times, He provides for you and me. Continue to speak with Him in prayer, open your heart to Him and allow Him to search the hidden things. Then just watch and observe how He operates, how He shows up, and how He wants you to respond.
Reflection
Review the questions above and answer them:
What are the secret things in your heart that you don’t say, but boy, if God made a move you’d be elated?
What are the longings big and small you’re hoping manifest in your life?
What issues or challenges do you have to face but don’t know where to start? Or think you don’t have the strength or wherewithal to accomplish it?
Either silently, aloud, or in written format present your reflections to God in prayer. Ask Him to meet these needs and to reveal to you when He’s at work.
Prayer
Lord, thank You for Your surprises. Forgive me for not trusting You with the hidden things of my heart. Grant me the ability to speak with You freely. Provide me with spiritual eyes and discernment to see how You are moving in my life and around me. In Jesus’ name I pray, amen.
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