Expect the Unexpected

Posted on October 31, 2018 by America's Keswick in Victory Call

“Ask the animals what they think – let them teach you; let the birds tell you what’s going on….learn the basics…isn’t it clear that they all know and agree that God is sovereign, that he holds all things in his hand-  every living soul, yes, every breathing creature?” (Job 12: 7-9, MSG).

Last time I wrote I shared how God used his word, among other confirmations, to provide direction regarding me tackling another trauma group of Keswick residents who are here for help since the need was brought before me. In light of that and as I think back over the past few years here, I am so encouraged by and thankful for Father’s constant hand of provision, his timely guidance and all that he is doing here at America’s Keswick overall and within the ENRICH program specifically.

The initial plan for two beautiful offices and a lobby for ENRICH counselees was well underway while I was still a volunteer with no idea that God would place me in my current position. He surely is the God who goes before and ahead of us! Then thanks to faithful financial support; the prayers of our supporters, volunteers, staff and residents; and the hard work of our administrative team and maintenance department, God provided and is now using these offices to minister not only to program residents but to their family members and even to part of the community through discipleship groups, the Women of Character support group, trauma groups and Families for Christ counseling and process groups. I marvel over our great and wonderful God!

This all takes me back to one beautiful spring morning in 2016 when first privileged with the oversight of the (formerly entitled Women of Character) ENRICH program. I remember seeking the Father’s wisdom regarding his direction for potential expansion of his program from my second-story deck that overlooks acres of fragrant pines. (This was right before the discipleship and trauma groups were initiated.) Upon glancing to my right, an alert, wide-eyed prayer warrior (praying mantis) eyeballed me from the railing, marched forward, eyeballed me again, and continued to march forward while repeating this “prayerful” process.

Now God knows that I treasure animals and nature: He will often amuse me, delight me and communicate to me through them. Father had been confirming repeatedly through many channels his desire for us to move toward specific, limited expansion, but this critter was by far the most unexpected and colorful confirmation. His message to me was clear: “Take a step forward, pause to reflect and evaluate, then take another step out, but most importantly- never stop praying”- advice that was not only duly-noted and well-timed but also spot-on in hindsight!

So what decisions are you currently faced with Friend? What questions are you grappling with? Take heart and know that he will answer your requests as well as you seek His will, face, empowerment, provision, timing and glory. Then expect the unexpected as he has all resources at his disposal (Psalm 50:10-12) not just in terms of his confirmations but also with regards to what he can and will provide!

Written by Melissa Smith: Melissa Smith is the Women’s ENRICH Counselor at America’s Keswick. She has the privilege and honor of ministering to the Colony men’s wives and girlfriends, the Barbara’s Place women, and community women who God brings to America’s Keswick for help or care. She and Bill, her husband of 20 years, have four grown, wonderful adopted children. Her fervent desire is to point women to Christ and His sufficiency, provision, and promises.

The Daily Bible Reading: Matthew 19, Mark 10| You can download our 2018 Daily Bible Reading Plan by clicking here

Daily Quote: “Fervent prayers produce phenomenal results.” – Woodrow Kroll

This Week’s Verse to Memorize: It is good that one should hope and wait quietly For the salvation of the Lord. — Lamentations 3:26

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