Devotional Stories for Tough Times
Cari Weber
I call on you, my God, for you will answer me; turn your ear to me and hear my prayer.
"I'm sorry," the bank teller said. "Your check has bounced."
Her words took a moment to sink in. This year had brought so much pain. A divorce, losing my house because of the divorce, then the loss of my job right before the holidays ... and now the check for my car insurance had bounced!
Choking back tears, I asked, "May I talk with someone about the overdraft fees?"
"You can try, but my supervisor never budges."
Moments later, I met with the supervisor. I could barely explain how I recently lost my job before the tears started flowing. Incredibly, she agreed to remove all overdraft fees.
Leaving the bank, I wondered what I would do. My unemployment checks were delayed due to a glitch in the system, and everything seemed to be piling up. How long could I last without an income?
Although it was only 5:30 P.M., it was already dark outside. December in Michigan meant it was not only dark, but cold and snowy. Despite that, I had an urge to take a walk on my favorite trail. Being cold and dark also meant there was a good chance no one else would be out, so I decided to go.
On the trail, I was grateful for sounds of rushing water coming from the creek. They covered my soft sobs while I walked. Tonight, it all felt like too much to bear.
At one point, I stopped and cried out to God. With a broken spirit, I said aloud, "Lord, I really need help right now. Today. Not tomorrow. Not the next day ... today." Then I wondered: Who was I to talk to the God of the universe in this way?
Eventually, when my tears dried up, I headed home. Approaching my apartment door, I noticed something bulky hanging on the handle. Probably another bill, I thought. While I struggled with my boots, I could see a card with my name on it through the clear plastic bag. Reaching in, I took out a very small, white padded envelope. Inside the envelope was a beautiful card with no name written on it, but it was stuffed with gift cards. Hundreds of dollars of gift cards that could meet my urgent needs!
I was in shock and awe. The timing of this amazing anonymous gift, arriving at exactly the right moment, was almost too much to comprehend. Again, I began crying, but now they were tears of joy. I felt so loved. The God of the universe really cared about my little life! God heard my cries from a cold, dark, lonely place, and assured me that He does hear and will provide.
(479 words)