We went on a date this evening, my husband and I did. It was such a treat. No complaining from the back seat about the restaurant of choice. No potty breaks, right as our food arrived. The conversation was enlightening and endearing. I couldn’t have asked for better company. Michael and I are still the best of friends, even after twelve years and three babies.
So, the cuisine of choice: Chinese. And we enjoyed some very spicy entrees. Yum. Yum. Yum. At the end of course, there is the infamous fortune cookie, with some proverb or stimulating advice inside. Dutifully we cracked open our cookies and read our “fortunes” while munching.
Mine first:
Then Michael’s:
There was some serious contrast between the two thoughts. I typically don’t take these things very seriously, but this time it was so obvious to me, I couldn’t help but think about it for a moment.
Michael and I will complete twelve years of marriage on September 25. Okay, Okay – I know it is just the beginning – it is nothing compared to my parents and grandparents who have been through so much more. However, I can still testify to this: over our time together I have seen the realities of both statements. I can tell you that as we have sought the Lord, looked for His ways to make them our own path, we have found Him to be very real and present in our lives. He has met our every spiritual and physical need. It is a promise from the book of Matthew 6:33
But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.
The second “fortune” is kind of the antithesis of the first. Let me explain. It is so easy to be swept up in the world’s ideas – “its all up to me” or “if I believe in me, I can make it happen.” But, I can assure you that when I have made efforts, of my own will and choosing, they have been in vain. If I believe that I am the only architect for my success, then I may be doomed for failure.
When I seek Him and His righteousness, blessings from His hand are revealed. As I find Him in the secret places, the sweet life He gives is no longer hidden. This is His promise in Matthew 7:
Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened.
I am so grateful to know from personal experience that this is true. Time and again I have looked for Him, and He has met me, in my neediness. It His lovingkindness that has sustained me through it all; any success, any glory belongs to Him. No good fortune about it, only divine promises fulfilled.
Thank you, God for being a Heavenly Father who wants to be sought after, but is available and ready to be found.
amen
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