Monday, November 3, 2008

A stranger and a scripture................

Recently, Jim and I were given a situation to pray about. Every day both of us were asking God to hear our prayers and to stand beside us concerning the situation. I know that God heard us, but at the same time (being human) as I was praying one night I just said, "God, I know you heard me the first time I brought this to you, and you've heard me every day since. And, I have total faith and have put it in your hands....but, could you just help me to reach the point that I know you've totally taken it from our hands and it is in yours."
The next day as I was walking out of Walmart, a total stranger came up to me and patted me on the shoulder and he said, "I have something to tell you, God is answering your prayers," and he turned to walk away. I was speechless for a second, then I said to him as he walked away, "Wait a minute," and I explained to a total stranger what I'd been praying about and he just smiled and replied, "He has heard you."

Isn't it funny how sometimes a total stranger can convince us of something that no one else can?

***********************************************

All of us realize these are tough times. Our nation's economy is in serious trouble and it is frightening to think about what the future may hold. So many people are losing their homes, jobs and security.
Every day Jim and I find ourselves saying special prayers for our family and friends that may be in jeopardy of losing their jobs, or that have already lost them.
As I was reading my Bible, and praying about changes that were happening to those close to us, God lead me to this scripture:
But now, this is what the Lord says -
he who created you, he who formed you,
"Fear not, for I have redeemed you;
I have summoned you by name: you are mine.
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you;
and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you.
When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames
will not set you ablaze.
For I am the Lord, your God, the Holy One of Israel, you Saviour;
Since you are precious and honored in my sight, and because I love you,
Do not be afraid, for I am with you."
(Isaiah 43: 1-5 NIV)

0 comments: