The Gift

Today something happened that I think is worth sharing. I heard from a friend who’d been on my mind for a few days, but I hadn’t acted on it yet. He was offering me a weekend away and money (now whatever you are thinking, will tell you where your mind is truly at!)

But for it all to mean anything, I need to back up a little. I paid my bills recently and realized that with car and home insurance due two months in a row, I didn’t have much money. I could pay my bills, but I couldn’t buy food for a month. I know, I know. Many of you know how I felt led earlier this year to increase my tithe, and I have to confess that at times like this, it is tempting to reconsider. But I know stealing from God doesn’t work.

Someone asked me if I’ve ever gone to the food pantry. I laughed and said no. The one time I thought about going I heard very loudly, “I’ll supply ALL your needs.” (Yes, the “all” was very loud!) And every time I start to wonder or worry, I go over that verse, and in a short time, God reminds me that He is true to His Word!

That was today. What the friend was offering me was a long weekend away, all expenses paid, and a paycheck for helping with an event that he runs annually. I know some of the people who attend, I get to spend time with him and his wife who I haven’t seen in a few years, the location is close enough to make it manageable, and it worked into my work schedules. Now the weekend away alone was a Godsend. But to get paid on top of it all tells me that God’s word is good. You see, I’ll get paid enough to cover the few expenses I have (gas, a couple of meals, etc.), enough to give God His share, enough to buy food for the month I thought I’d have to live out of my cupboards, and enough to pay for my next class, which is due sooner than later. And all of this is in advance of when I need it. (He usually tests my faith until the last minute.)

Now I’m not looking down on people who need the food pantries. For me though, I’ve been told by God that my faith will get me through. I remember years ago hearing about George Mueller and wanting faith like his. That kind of faith comes with testing. I can’t say I like the testing, but I love the testimony in the end. That’s why I share this with you.