Broke But Blessed

Broke but Blessed

Weeping may last through the night,but joy comes with the morning.

Psalm 30:5

Early in my freelance career, work was scarce, and I was scraping by financially. I subsisted on popcorn, potatoes, and eggs—the least expensive and most filling foods I could find. And yet, I still believed that I was doing what God had called me to do.

One morning I went to the mailbox and found a small refund check for an overpayment I’d made to an insurance company. The check was for $$1360. Even that small amount was a welcome sight in those lean days. Since I was supposed to meet a potential client for lunch, I cashed the check and hoped the money would be enough. When the bill came for my lunch, including the tip it came to $$1340. Whew! Thank you, God. I could imagine his smiling and saying, “When will you learn to trust me?”

The day before, I had received an e-mail from my Weight Watchers coach asking me to please bring a few of my children’s books to the next day’s meeting. She wanted to buy some as a shower gift. So I did, and she paid me $$4500 for the books—in cash. I tucked it into my pocket with gratitude.

When I got into my car to head home, I remembered that I needed gasoline—my car was running on fumes. So I drove to the nearest economy gas station and filled up. It cost $$4250. I looked up at heaven and said, “Thank you, Father!” (Did I hear him laugh?)

Before going home, I stopped to buy some eggs and potatoes. The total came to $$260. I had a whole dime left over!

This time, I laughed! Through the years, I’ve learned that only God has twenty-twenty foresight, and I’ve often thought that his humorous solutions to my life struggles were laughable in my limited hindsight.

Gracious Father, please forgive me for not trusting you. Thank you for your constant care and provision. I love you, Lord. Amen.