Have you ever asked God for anything? Did you get it? Was it exactly what you wanted? Have you ever received something that initially looked totally opposite of what you asked for, only to look back after a while and admit how glad you were that He sent you what you needed and not what you wanted? I am learning that many times when God gives us something, it doesn’t always look like what we expected. God has a way of sending us Hidden Treasures.
Example: You asked God for a promotion, but instead you lose that job. You asked God for a mate and you give Him your long list of requirements only to meet and find yourself in love with someone who is nothing like what you asked. Why do you think that is?
For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, saith the Lord. For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways, and my thoughts than your thoughts. (Isaiah 55:8-9)
God, Who is infinite in His Wisdom, will give us what looks like a mess, but hidden under the chaos is an even better version of what we requested. I believe He does this in order to ensure we do our part (we do play a part in our own blessings).
What good is it, dear brothers and sisters, if you say you have faith but don’t show it by your actions? Can that kind of faith save anyone? (James 2:14 NLT)
I’ve been praying for my family to become closer and that we spend more time together. Well, this Thanksgiving I got just that, except when I walked into my brother’s house (our host this year), initially all I saw was chaos. There were about 20 kids running around and playing, family members who hadn’t seen each other in forever were exchanging salutations, music was blaring, food was everywhere, etc. Compared to my normal quiet only me life, that was chaotic, but through the prompting of the Holy Spirit, before I allowed my natural sight to control my thoughts, emotions, and actions, I took a step back and realized this is exactly what I asked for; it wasn’t how I pictured it, but it was what I asked for. Everyone there had an amazing time and everyone felt welcome, that was priceless!
I had to do my part, which was to see it as the blessing that it truly was, a Hidden Treasure.
For we walk by faith, not by sight. (2 Corinthians 5:7)
So, That Settles It, purpose in your heart to see the Hidden Treasures in every mess you are presented with. Choose to see it (Spiritually) even before you see it (Physically). Remember, God ALWAYS gives us far more than we can imagine!
Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us…(Ephesians 3:20)