You ever have a day when you just feel down? The other day I was feeling it strong — I was thinking about the finances because things have been a little different this year; and it’s been a little tight. My heart is to keep giving, but it hasn’t been as fluid and easy so far this year. The vehicles need attention, as does the body, so my thoughts have been like… ok, what to do? And I KNOW that I shouldn’t worry or fret. My faith and trust in the Divine has taught me that the blessings are real, unexpected, constant, and promised.
In chapter 4 of the letter to the church at Philippi, St. Paul writes about his gratitude to the church for sending him gifts and supporting him financially, and then says, “That same God, who worked through you to bless me, will in turn bless you and supply all your needs as well!” Isn’t that the way of the Divine? He gives good gifts through those who are willing to open their hearts and hands through acts of kindness and blessing. Gold coins don’t usually rain down from the sky, but people are often prompted and led to do amazing and unexpected acts that in turn change the course of another’s life — in both small and big ways.
There I was, on a muggy Tuesday afternoon, grousing a few thoughts upward in my ongoing inward conversations with Christ, and I got a messenger alert. I did some work for some friends of mine last month and they said they wanted to Cash app me as they were really happy how things turned out. See with friends, its always been hard for me to come up with a figure so I usually just leave it open ended. Probably not the best business sense, but you know… they are friends! Anyway, I was honestly expecting like $100 or so which would be great. I got the notification from the Cash app so I checked it and nearly fell over. There was an extra zero on there! Of course I immediately conveyed my gratitude and appreciation. I’m sure they had no idea how this act of blessing would strengthen my faith and encourage me. As I looked up and said thanks, I heard a voice in my spirit that said, “Joshua, I got your back. Always. I’ve always taken care of you.” And it’s true. Despite my worry or fretting, I have never been without.
So I echo the words of St. Paul to those who blessed me — as you so graciously gave above and beyond, may that same God, who worked through you, bless you above and beyond any expectations. May your cup be filled and flow over!
After the team in IHOPM tonight, I shared this, and it sparked such a good conversation of sharing testimonies of blessing and how those experiences were moments of faith building. Sueanna spoke of a book of remembrance, which is exactly why I write these posts — so I can look back and remember these times. When my faith is low, I go back, remember, and count the victories, you know?
May each of us open our hearts, our minds, our eyes, and our hands to the amazing partnership with the Divine and the acts of grace and mercy that are available! May we be willing to step out and do acts of kindness! May we remember the blessings, count the victories, and tell the stories of all those good gifts that come down from the One who is the source of light, hope, and love. Peace my friends!