About a year and a half ago, I went to the grocery store at night. Though it’s not my norm, I braved the dark in order to avoid a forecasted cold front. If I’m honest, I was a little nervous. The crowd seemed rough, and I felt vulnerable unloading a basket full of groceries in the dark alone.
Still, I trusted the Lord would be with me. When I pulled into the parking lot, God’s favor was undeniable. My favorite parking spot was open, despite the incredible overflow of vehicles. (That may mean little to you, but I knew it was a real wink from my Father.) I was able to navigate the aisles, finding everything I would need for the upcoming week. After checking out, I beelined for my vehicle and hastily began unloading my loot.
Suddenly, a black Dodge pickup pulled up next to my basket. A woman rolled down the window and said, “Ma’am, I need help! I promise I won’t ask you for money. Will you please come here?” Immediately, I struggled inwardly. I did not want to deny assistance to a legitimate need. However, her choice to approach a woman, alone, in the dark, while she was unloading groceries with nowhere to go, frustrated me. I simply said, “Ma’am,” in a tone that would convey the skepticism. She repeated, “I promise I won’t ask for money.” I turned to my groceries and said quietly, but earnestly, “Jesus, what do I do?”
No sooner did the words leave my mouth, and the woman sped away. A sense of genuine relief came over me, and I was certain the Lord had answered my prayer. I did not have to “do” anything. I simply called on His Name, in faithful expectation of His guidance, and He caused the problem to speed away. What a miracle!
Within twenty four hours, I opened my Bible app to the Verse of the Day. Not coincidentally, it read:
I was stunned. Through His Word, God confirmed that His Name has the power to save–not just eternally, but literally, practically, and daily.
So, friends, let’s call out in our moment of need, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant. Yes–let’s say His Name!
For “Everyone who calls on the Name of the LORD will be saved.” Romans 10:13 (NLT)
All praise and honor and glory to Him forever. Amen!
