Looking over my calendar of monthly bills, I saw a huge problem.
I needed $2100 more than I had to cover bills. I had no idea how to get that many more bookings for our new Bed and Breakfast—and I needed them quickly. I prayed, but God told me, “If you want guests, you’d better get the cabins cleaned.” I laughed a little, hopped up, and loaded the cleaning supplies.
As I started on the first cabin, the phone rang. A couple booked a three-night stay. Thank you, Lord. I walked back to the cabin and went to work. Halfway through cleaning the second cabin, the phone rang again. Another booking … and then another. Just as I finished cabin number three, the phone rang yet again. Two couples, calling together, booked their stay.
I couldn’t wait to finish cleaning so I could add up the income of the new bookings. In the three hours it took me to clean the cabins, God sent $2400 in bookings for that month. He provided more than I’d asked. Then it dawned on me I had forgotten to add in groceries and gasoline. He knew more about my needs than I did and provided for them all.
After that day, I continued to talk over the books with God. I’d talk Him through our bookings calendar, and then we’d look over the bill calendar together. Each time, after I showed God my needs, I closed the books and left them with Him. Then I’d go to work to prepare my beautiful place for the guests He would send.
During those days, God taught me the truth of wise King Solomon’s words. Trust the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and he will make your paths straight. Trusting God didn’t make sense, but doing so didn’t have to. I knew my situation was from God, Jehovah Jireh, who is my Provider.
Next time you’re going over your calendar of bills—or anything else you’re struggling with—talk with God. Tell Him what you’re up against, close the book, and turn everything over to Him.
Go to work and trust God to be your Provider.
(Photo courtesy of pixabay.)
(For more devotions, visit Christian Devotions.)
Patti McLead is a wife of thirty-six years, a mother, and a grandmother. She is also an American Gold Star Mother, which led to the writing of her book, Tattered Not Torn. Learn about her retreat ministry at www.pattimclead.com, and follow her recently launched blog at www.pattiwithani.blog.