Angels In Tool Belts

My God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.

Ding-dong.

The doorbell rang just as Minnesota’s governor finished announcing an imminent stay-at-home order. Our world was headed for “unprecedented times” (oh, how I came to dislike those words), and I was praying for so many heavy things in addition to the very practical concern that we were in the midst of a massive remodeling project and had no kitchen.

No one could have known what was coming when we ripped out our kitchen and main living areas in early January. We had a microwave and toaster in the corner of our torn-apart living room and a fridge in the garage, and we had been doing dishes in our upstairs bathroom for two months. What we’d been cheerfully calling a grand temporary adventure suddenly had me praying for help as I scrambled to devise a plan in the face of massive uncertainty and chaos.

I opened the door to our contractor’s crew. Upon learning of the impending lockdown, they had raced to our house to temporarily install a sink, stove, and plywood countertop. They knew the precarious position we were in and wanted to ensure that we would have the essentials, just in case construction work had to stop.

I’ve never thought of angels as wearing tool belts, but that’s what they looked like to me as I swung open the door. And while I know they weren’t actually angels, they were an answered prayer, en route before I even knew to pray for them.

During those chaotic months, I complained to God about the terrible, no-good timing of our remodel. And yet, I’ve changed my tune with the perspective of hindsight. I’ve lost count of the times I’ve thanked God that our project slipped through just before rampant supply chain problems, worker shortages, and cost increases.

Whenever I question God’s timing or the “why” in circumstances beyond my control, I remember the sound of my doorbell ringing with God’s answer to prayer. Reflecting on his past faithfulness and provision always bolsters my faith that he will meet my current needs.

Julie

Today’s Act of Gratitude

List the ways God has provided for you or your loved ones in situations beyond your control. Recite those examples as you wait on him in your current circumstance.