In the space of one week, the dryer died, the kitchen refrigerator crashed, and I came home to find the above notice on my front door. All of this while I was in the process of trying to hammer out a workable, significantly-reduced budget.
Ever have one of those days/weeks/years?
Someone once challenged me this way: when faced with a difficulty, look for the opportunity instead of focusing only on the obstacle.
Endeavoring to put this good advice into practice, I asked myself, "What is the opportunity here?"
Opportunity #1: Instead of freaking out, I took a deep breath and asked dear friends to pray for me...to pray specifically for household appliances and for adequate finances.
Opportunity #2: I asked for help. My son got his dryer out of storage and installed it temporarily in my laundry room. My spouse paid the electric bill.
Opportunity #3: I did a new thing, something I had never done before. I researched and purchased a large appliance. The new refrigerator will be installed next week.
Things I am learning:
- "Jesus, help me!" is a perfectly legitimate way to pray.
- More and more, my prayers are specific. "God, can you help me find a refrigerator?"
- I have wonderful family and friends. (I already knew this, but it is good to pause and remember.)
The window facing above my desk is cluttered with sticky notes: To-do lists, names of people I pray for, a verse that encouraged me this week, homework assignments, etc. Yesterday morning, I discovered a new sticky note. Apparently, my granddaughter found my sticky-note stash and found the brightly-colored squares irresistible.
Yes, He does love me. And, yes, He will take care of me.
Thank you, Jules, for the reminder!
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