Over the years I have watched God provide for others before they even needed it. At the time God provided, I don’t think they realized what He was doing.
What about you? Do you see God’s hand of provision in the lives of others? Do you see God providing in your own life?
My mom took care of my dad. The last 2 years of his life were a challenge for her. He passed away. Next, she spent almost 2 years taking care of her mother. For the most part, Grandma was in good health, but she could no longer drive safely at 92. My mom did the right thing when she took over the driving.
About a year into taking care of Grandma, a stray dog showed up at mom’s house. Since my older brother and his wife live near by, they decided to adopt and share this dog between them.
I remember saying to my husband, Bob, “ I have a feeling this doesn’t bode well for Grandmother.” A month or 2 later, it was Christmas. I felt like it would be Grandma’s last. I carried my camera to take some pictures. In March, my grandmother passed away.
Not to say that the dog was a replacement for my mother in the loss of her mother – of course it wasn’t. But my mom was accustomed to being a caregiver. Now, with the dog, she still had to be a caregiver. I believe the dog was brought there by God to help Mom with the transition.
This dog was very smart and very mischievous. Caring for her sometimes meant returning or replacing what she stole. Taking care of her gave my mom something interesting to do. It helped fill her time.
It’s easy to see the obvious things God does for us. We may have a long list of answered prayer. It becomes impossible to see all the things that God does for us in situations that we do not see coming. Although when we look back, we may see God’s fingerprints all over it.
God knows our needs – even our emotional needs. As a loving shepherd, He provides for us in every way.
The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want. He maketh me to lie down in green pastures: he leadeth me beside the still waters. He restoreth my soul: he leadeth me in the paths of righteousness for his name’s sake. Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil: for thou art with me; thy rod and thy staff they comfort me. Thou preparest a table before me in the presence of mine enemies: thou anointest my head with oil; my cup runneth over. Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me all the days of my life: and I will dwell in the house of the LORD for ever.
Psalms 23:1-6
LIFE APPLICATION
Key Focal Verse:
There is no fear in love; but perfect love casteth out fear: because fear hath torment. He that feareth is not made perfect in love. We love him, because he first loved us.
1 John 4:18-19
Today’s challenge is to ask God to help you see some of the more subtle ways he cares for you and those around you. Praise Him for that care.