One day I learned that a co-worker was going through a hard time. She was overwhelmed with family problems and stressed out at work. So overwhelmed was she that she had a headache and tears came to her eyes. My heart went out to her and as soon as I went back to my desk, I asked God to show me the scripture He wanted me to send her—the scripture He knew would help her. He did and I sent it off.
It was Psalm 46:1. “God is our refuge and strength, A very present help in trouble.” It was for her and her husband. There was a reflection under the scripture which said, “Be assured, O believer, that the Lord your God is with you. He shall shelter your spirit in His mighty house forever. Never need you fear, for He is even now your aid against all manner of trouble. Rejoice, therefore, in His love and power.” My co-worker emailed me, thanking me and saying that she really needed that.
The following morning she called me and told me that the night after reading the scripture and reflection she felt better, calm and at peace. She had faith that God would work things out. She also told me that she got an email from her father-in-law and he had good news. God had come through for them, as I knew He would. All He wanted was for us to have enough faith and trust to ask Him for His help. As I spoke to her my hope was that this would draw her closer to God.
As I thanked God I got emotional because of what He had done. It is wonderful to see Him work in the lives of others. It strengthens our faith and deepens our love. I also want to thank Him for allowing me to be a part of it. Now I can relate to what the writer said in Hebrews 11:6. “…for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
When we pray and ask God to do something we must believe in what we are asking—we must believe in His power. Perhaps when we pray we should thank Him for already doing it instead of asking. We claim His promises and then thank Him for keeping them in accordance to His will. Everything must be done according to His will and in His time.
My co-worker didn’t tell anyone else about the amazing effect the words of encouragement and hope had on her because she felt that they wouldn’t believe her or understand. Only believers would understand because they know God and what He is capable of. They can relate to Paul when he said, “But the natural man does not receive the things of the Spirit of God, for they are foolishness to him; nor can he know them, because they are spiritually discerned.” And “And we know that all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose.
Notes to Women 