Recently my husband and I went out to celebrate a special occasion. He proceeded to drive me to My favorite Italian restaurant, but upon arriving, the parking lot was crammed with cars; there was hardly a spot available to park. We went in, only to find that the wait would be two hours to simply be seated, let alone dine. Rather than being disappointed, I simply lifted our situation to God, saying, “Okay, Lord, what do you have for us this evening?” Earlier that day, I had asked Him to orchestrate our steps and order our day. I stayed at peace and chose to believe that God had the very best in store for my husband and I. It was Saturday evening and Valentine’s weekend, so most of the restaurants were bustling even more than usual. We hadn’t thought to make any reservations, either.
We continued to drive to another Italian restaurant that we had never heard of or been to before. As we pulled up to the parking lot, we noticed that it was similarly just as full as that last; but since we were already there, my husband and I decided we might as well go in and inquire about the wait. Upon walking in, we instantly realized that this was an extremely elegant and inviting place, possibly the nicest we had ever been in. The hostess immediately asked us if we had made reservations. We apologized and told her that we hadn’t, and upon hearing that she chuckled, explaining that couples have been making reservations to dine here for over two weeks in advance.
Still, I didn’t allow myself to become discouraged. I felt a strong sense of hope that God had everything in control. After looking at the chart once again, the hostess asked us to wait one moment while she went to the back. When she came back, she smiled and said, “We’ve had a cancellation. I can actually seat the both of you right now if you’d like.”
“Wow!” She said, astonished. “It must have been lucky timing for you guys.” My husband and I readily agreed and exchanged a knowing smile. Of course, we knew differently; it was the favor of the Lord. Jeff and I had just experienced a major upgrade. As we were seated, I took in the beautiful environment and smelled the delicious aroma of the food. The Lord quietly spoke to me at that moment. He whispered, “What might look like an interruption to your plans could actually be an upgrade.”
As I pondered these precious words over the last couple days, I sensed that this is a word for the Body of Christ as well. It’s okay to make plans, but be flexible and allow the Lord to change your course in both the big and small ways alike, especially in this season. As it is written in Proverbs 16:9 (NLT), “We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps.”
What at first might seem to be an inconvenience could actually be an advancement to something greater! God is elevating his people in this season. He is calling us to be flexible and look for how He is moving. It may look different than past times, but still, be willing to readjust your plans. Allow Him to lead you in ways that you have not previously walked.
“This is what the Lord says: ‘Stand at the crossroads and look; ask for the ancient paths, ask where the good way is, and walk in it, and you will find rest for your souls.'”
Jeremiah 6:16a
I sense that the Lord has some wonderful surprises in hand, especially for those who have been faithful through the extreme trials and opposition. Be encouraged and know that we serve a faithful and extravagant Father who longs to lavish His children with good gifts. It is a time for favor and upgrade!
“So if you sinful people know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your heavenly Father give good gifts to those who ask him.”
Matthew 7:11, NLT
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