Wednesday, November 25, 2009

ANSWERED PRAYERS

He took another sip of coffee, gazing outside as the rain pelted the windows to my office. "I think it's going to rain all day." My immediate reaction was, oh no! Not today. I have so many things planned, outside. But then, that little voice stopped me in my tracks. It said, you've been praying for rain, for several days. So what am I thinking now? No rain, because it interferes with my plans? I wonder how many other times I have asked God to answer my prayers, then when HE does, I say, no thanks, not today. It is so easy to fall into step with our own agenda. We live in a world of instant gratification. When we don't get what we want immediately, we automatically assume God isn't listening. When actually, HE is listening. In fact, HE always listens to our prayers. Because we don't receive "instant" gratification is no indication HE isn't listening. We order fast food, drive around to the window and pick it up. We text our friends on our cell phones. We answer e-mail from our cell phones---can't miss a call if we're away from the computer. We instant message each other. God is always available. Think of HIM as the Instant Messenger. HE has a plan for me, and one for you too. I am praising HIM today for the rain, and asking for HIS forgiveness at my stupidity. Yes, I did pray for rain. Our lawn is brown and the lakes around us are low. As well as the water table. The trees and flowers are dry. But I wanted it yesterday, not today when we are outside delivering food to people. The rain is a blessing. God knows what HE is doing. In your own time Lord. Ecclesiastes 3---there is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under heaven; Today the rain falls gently on the lawn, watering the trees and flowers and filling the lake. In your own time Lord, there is a time for everything. And help me to remember to give thanks for answered prayers.

4 comments:

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

I'm giving thanks for every moment. Right now we're sitting around the computer waiting to see our son carry the Olympic torch in Gagetown, NB. I keep flashing back to the very first moment I looked into his eyes. 36 years ago. I was tired, felt like I'd be ripped in 2, but as soon as I looked at him, I knew he was going to be special.

Life is a moment to moment to be cherished and grateful for.

Thanks for sharing this, Katt and letting me share it with you.

Kathryn Neff Perry, PhD, MA, LMHC said...

Did you notice the formatting went nuts?
I'm so proud of your son too! I tried to watch the video---and am waiting for better pictures on your blog. How proud your entire family must be---another reason to give thanks----
Hugs
Katt

Joylene Nowell Butler said...

Cory sent some pics last night; I've stuck one on my blog at the bottom of yesterday's announcement about the relay. Hoping his friends send me some more. Sure wish I could have been there.

BTW, did you want to postpone blogging on JLN today?

Kathryn Neff Perry, PhD, MA, LMHC said...

Hooray, I saw more pictures of Cory! I know you weren't "there" but you and I know Mom---you were there!!!!