God delivers. His kindness may show up in the most unexpected way. The incident happened long ago, but the memory is fresh. It is an example of how God delivers what we need at just the right time.
Nothing seemed to go well that day. It began with gloomy weather, I scorched a blouse I tried to iron, and then I pulled something I could no longer recognize out of the refrigerator.
Our daughter, Christie, was not yet a month old. My husband, Doug, traveled a lot at that time, which left me home by myself with our new daughter. I discovered taking care of a little one while keeping up with housework was an incredible responsibility. I craved the freedom to meet a friend on the spur of the moment for lunch.
For three days, Christie had been sick with a cold and slept fitfully. Her illness was not serious, but created anxiety in this new mom. Her fussing at night kept me from sleeping. My thoughts were not focused on “whatever is right, pure, lovely or admirable.” Nor was I thinking about “all things excellent or praiseworthy.” I wouldn’t have won any awards for cheerfulness.
When Christie finally settled down for a nap, I didn’t know how long she would sleep, but I decided to take advantage of the respite. I looked at the carpet that needed vacuuming, thought about the laundry piling up, and gazed longingly at the stack of unread magazines on the living room table. I reasoned if I got busy with cleaning or laundry, I would most likely awaken Christie.
So, I made some coffee and settled in for a long-overdue read. I savored the quiet house and the chance to catch up on what was happening beyond its walls. I reached for my coffee cup, but just as I took a sip, the handle broke, spilling hot coffee all over me, the magazine, the chair, and the carpet.
My black mood returned. I began cleaning the mess. Just then the doorbell rang. I jerked open the door, ready to snarl at whatever salesman had the nerve to show up at such a time.
Instead, it was my neighbor, Alice, with a smile and a bouquet of roses from her garden. I love roses. I love their fragrance, texture, colors-but Alice didn’t know that. She had no idea what kind of a day I was having, but God knew. In His grace, God delivered flowers. He whispered in the scent of a rose.
Since then, I’ve learned God frequently sends roses–gifts of His grace. His bouquets may come in the form of an encouraging word from a friend, a thoughtful act from my family, or some other unexpected day brightener. They are serendipities that suddenly turn a day around and make me smile. They are reminders God knows when we need a lift.
Whatever is good and perfect is a gift coming down to us from God our Father. James 1:17 NLT
What do you think? I would love to hear your thoughts. How has God brightened your gloomy days? Please leave a comment below.
Blessings,
Phyllis
“God Delivers” first appeared in Women Alive.
Image by 1195798 from Pixabay
Copyright 2023 and 2001 Phyllis L. Farringer