All things are working together for good

"All things are working together for good for those who love God, for those who are called according to His purpose..." (Romans 8:28).

The other day, the Lord reminded me of an important lesson in life, but in such a simple way. When it happened, I had to laugh to myself. I drove my car into a parking lot and saw a space that I wanted to go into. However in the space next to that one, two ladies were getting into a vehicle. I was waiting for them to get into their car, as the open doors were preventing me from parking. So I waited. However, they were taking their time, and chatting away happily. This went on for a moment or two. Growing a bit weary, I decided it was quicker to just drive to another space. However, just as I was about to reverse and drive away, a kind gentleman nearby gestured to me with his hand - offering me his parking ticket. Apparently he was leaving and had some time left on the meter that he did not use up. I thankfully accepted the ticket, and when I looked at it, it had nearly an hour left! By this time, the ladies had closed their doors so I could easily park as originally intended. Right there and then, as I was parking (with a big smile on my face), the Lord spoke to me about a few things. Firstly I realised that the Lord provides for, and takes care of us in so many ways, even the very very small things. I believe that He provided that 50 pence ticket. He so graciously arranged the situation that I was in the parking lot just at the right time to receive the ticket. On the flip side, He arranged events so that the kind gentleman was there at the precise moment to give me the ticket. If He is concerned for us as to provide in the small things we often take for granted, how much more will He provide in the bigger issues of our lives. The Bible says in Matthew 6:30 "...if God so clothes the grass of the field which today is alive and tomorrow is tossed into the furnace, will He not much more surely clothe you.." We can be confident that the Lord will provide for every need in our lives. We just need to trust Him (Proverbs 3:5,6).

The second thought that came to me was "what if I had moved to another spot? I would have missed out on the free ticket." Surely if I hadn't waited those few extra moments for the ladies to close their car doors, I would have moved to another space. I would have had to go to the ticket machine. We can relate this to the larger issues of life. Sometimes the Lord wants us to wait. It may be that we want to make a decision and take action in a particular situation. It may be that we are waiting for God to provide in a certain way. Whatever it may be, it is important that we wait patiently for God's direction and provision. If not, we may try to take things into our own hands and miss out on God's best in our lives - in the same way I could have missed out on that free ticket. While you are waiting on God, He is working on you - often in ways you cannot perceive, "behind the scenes". It is vital in these times to seek His will for your life. Ask Him in prayer for direction and guidance, for He has promised that as you wait patiently on Him. He will strengthen you (Isaiah 40:31).

Lastly, be aware of the fact that God can speak to you in an infinite number of ways. I learnt something valuable through a very small situation in a car park. God can speak to you anywhere, anytime and through anyone. He can teach you a principle while you are out shopping or taking a shower for example. The main thing is to be open and sensitive to His voice. Don't discount the simple ways in which God can reach you!