A while back, I told a story about “a nickel’s worth of grace”. It was end of the month versus end of the money and we were a little short. I prayed for just enough to get by and that a little more would be nice. A check arrived for the exact amount we needed plus five cents, a nickel’s worth of grace. Today, a check showed up in the same amount including the five cents and it took me back to that day when we were in a pinch and the Lord provided. It turns out I learned more than “you asked for a little more, you got a little more; ask bigger next time.” With having a bit of breathing room this time around, I realized the difference had very little to do with my efforts, short of trying to be patient and faithful. Blessings have flowed, thank God, some financially, but mostly in wisdom to make better choices with what I have been entrusted with.
The reminder came at a time when thoughts of previous questionable endeavors began to resurface. “I have learned so much. I could do much better this time.” Similar to the first time around, I prayed for wisdom to discern if this was God’s will or another passing fancy. The answer came in the image of a discarded lottery ticket, dreams of great wealth crumbling under the weight of a nickel and scattered “scratch-off” debris.
“I sought the Lord, and he answered me; he delivered me from all my fears.” Psalm 34:4 – NIV
God’s answer was very clear, “I have delivered you from this, why would you return?”
“Jesus replied, ‘No one who puts a hand to the plow and looks back is fit for service in the kingdom of God.’” Luke 9:62 NIV
If you have been pulled from the mud, why return to the trenches? Recognize solid ground, wipe your boots and move forward. That nickel, thought at the time as a small blessing, became a beacon to rescued places where I should dwell and find shelter in the Hands of the Almighty.
Be Blessed in Great Measure
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Keep and eye out for the release of my upcoming book Echoes Intertwined, a collection of parables, lessons and God whispers.
