Tonight as I drove home from taking some cake to a friend in the hospital, I
felt a sudden leading to take a piece of caramel cake and some home brewed
raspberry tea to my pastor. As I drove into my driveway, I could think of at
least 5 good reasons why I shouldn't do that -- and suddenly the music on my
tape player sang -- "and God's soft promptings can be easily ignored." You can
bet I had that cake delivered within 5 minutes!
It reminds me of a time when those soft promptings prepared me for a blessing I
might otherwise have missed.
Several years ago, my church in Augusta, Georgia, was invited to present the
world premiere of a new Christmas Musical. There was a part for the mother of
Mary - both speaking and singing. I felt led to tryout, but never heard any
response.
I continued to attend choir practice, but the music minister never announced the
solo parts. Weekly I watched to see which alto had been chosen -- but there was
nary a peep out of anyone.
About 5 weeks before the performance, God prompted me to learn the solo and
speaking part. I couldn't believe He was asking me to do that, but assumed that
perhaps the soloist would get sick at the last minute and I would have to take
their place. I got busy and learned everything.
A week later, I sensed another of those soft promptings. This time I felt led to
make a costume. I could believe that was necessary, if I were going to jump in
at the last minute. However, the situation was becoming increasingly more
challenging. Only the cast wore costumes. I figured I'd look mighty silly
getting on the bus with my costume, when I was just a member of the chorus! Not
long after I finished the costume, I got a call from the choir director. He
related that prior to going on vacation, he had forgotten to call me.
However, he did want me to take the part of Mary's Mother - and did I think I
could have that ready in such a short time? The truth is -- no, I couldn't have
it ready in a short time. But a loving God had begun my preparation weeks
before, with His soft promptings.
In my life, obedience to God has always opened the front door to some sort of
blessing!
Gail LaForce - Sanguine/Encourager, speaker, teacher, writer, newsletter editor,
intercessor, church council chairman and loves to swap Southern Humor with
LaRose Karr. Has lived in Colorado 31 years, Georgia 14 years, Alberta 3 years,
Virginia 3 years, and Texas 2 years. Is an R.N. and has a B.A. in English
Education. Currently a grant writer for Northeastern Junior College. Mother of 3
college age children. What really counts is that she has given her life to Jesus
and loves Him with all her heart. Her favorite teaching topics are prayer and
obedience. Email: gjlaforce@aol.com
The Illustrator: This daily newsletter is dedicated to encouraging
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The Nugget: Published three times a week, this newsletter features inspirational devotionals and mini-sermons dedicated to drawing mankind closer to each other and to Christ.