Stepping Stones: God’s Love Comes From Everywhere

Transformational Tip
I know, today’s title sounds like a Sunday school cliché. But I want to share a childhood memory that will hopefully bring it new meaning…and hope.
I’m one of 14 children, all from the same mother and father. Our mother had the deepest of Christ-based faith. Being one of the oldest, I had the opportunity, no, the blessing to witness my mother living out her faith through so many of her life’s storms. She was always sure to point out the receiving of grace and God’s love. She would tell her children often; “God’s love comes from everywhere.”
I was 8 years old and already had 7 siblings. My father was in the hospital due to a chronic heart condition. There had been no money coming into the household for a month or longer. I don’t know how mom provided for us. No food stamps or welfare. Our credit had run out at the small town grocery store. People brought food, but not often. On this particular evening it was dinner time and I knew there was no food in the house – nothing. I was hungry, but more concerned for my younger brothers and sisters. I went to my mom and let her know (as if she didn’t already know) that we had no food for dinner. “What are you going to do?” I asked. I saw the sadness and nervousness in her eyes. But with head up and shoulders back she said with confidence; “I don’t know right now, but I know God will provide for us.” I believed her.
A few minutes later there was a knock on our door. When I answered no one was there…but they had left a bushel basket of food – ham, bread, fruit, potatoes…it was overflowing. On top was an envelope with the words; “God’s love comes from everywhere.” Inside the envelope was $500 cash. Without Dad’s illness, I would never have got this lesson. Click here to share a situation that demonstrated to you that God’s love comes from everywhere.

Prayer
Dear Father God,
I thank You for Your constant love and grace. I thank You for allowing me to see You at work throughout my mother’s life. Help me remember that when I am at my weakest, I am at my strongest, through Your power. As my mother was, I too want to be available to help You display Your power and glory to others. I know that my weakness is the ideal stage for the exhibition of Your Power. In Jesus’ perfect humble and powerful name, and all God’s people said, -AMEN!

The Truth
But he said to me, "My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness." Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ's power may rest on me.
2 Corinthians 12:9