Listen and Learn

How many times has the Holy Spirit tried to gently remind us to do things that will help us from experiencing the consequences of future situations?

I had changed the locks on my house recently but had not given an extra key to my friend. I like to make sure I can get back in when the unforeseen happens. So when I left town, I told my friend to keep the outside key when she came to feed the cat and I would replace it later. This is where the problem begins to unfold.

When I got home, my friend had left the empty black case on the kitchen counter. Instead of replacing the key right away, I pledged to do it later when I had unpacked the car and settle back into my route. For three consecutive days, I gently heard the Holy Spirit caution me to put the key back outside. I had well-meaning intentions, but I never made the task a priority so it never got done.

By the fourth day, I had walked outside to enjoy the beauty of the morning in my pajamas and with a cup of tea. When my daughter came out to go to work, I knew it was time to go inside.

OH NO! The door was locked. I immediately, ran down the driveway to catch my daughter before she got away. This would be an easy fix, I thought. However, she did not have a house key on her spare set. Next, I called my friend, but she was not available to come. I was beginning to fill the pressure because I had a dentist appointment within the hour.

I started to pray for wisdom and courage. I felt like I was running out of choices for a short-term solution. Then, I remembered. Wasn’t the sliding glass door to the back deck still opened? Yes! Now, all I needed was a tall ladder. I flew over to my next-door neighbor’s house to borrow one. As I reached the deck again, all I could do was pray the ladder would be sufficient. Sure enough, I was able to climb up, hoist myself over the railing and land safety on the deck.  I made it to the dentist office with only moments to spare.

Later, the Holy Spirit gave me these words to ponder:

I am training you to hear and take action in the simple things now so when more difficult times come later, you will be prepared.

Point taken Holy Spirit…Thank you.

Are you listening to the Holy Spirit as He gives you wisdom in your affairs? The time is short and we will need His guidance even more for the days to come. I don’t want to waste these unique opportunities to learn about a closer walk. How about you?

All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you. – John 14:25-26