March 11 Lord, I Believe, Except When I Don’t
Mark 9:23-24
I was finishing a graduate degree and my part-time salary (the financial support for my family) was going to end. I had a wife, two children, and a third child on the way, and no prospects. Back in the spring, I had learned of a temporary job in Texas that was perfect, but I wasn’t going to finish until later in the fall, and so I couldn’t take the job. Surely someone else would fill the position before summer. And now, several months later, I’m needing a job, and there didn’t seem to be any in my field. What was I to do? I wanted to be faithful and trust God and not worry. But it was hard. I don’t think I did very well at it, although I prayed He would help me actually believe that He would take care of my family and me. For several weeks – nothing. It was getting closer to my end date at school.
One week before my dissertation defense, my advisor received a phone call from the scientist in Texas. The job had not been filled, he said, and was Lindsey still available and interested? The relief I had was great – now I had a future, an income to support my growing family, and training and education that could be used.
Many times, big and small, I find myself either facing doubt or trusting in His promises. And I seem to do both! So I thank God for the trust He gives me and ask for forgiveness for the doubts.
Prayer: Dear Father, when I am tempted to doubt, remind me by Your Spirit
that You promised to never leave me or forsake me, and that I am worth much in Your sight.
You know what I need and are more than capable of supplying it.
In whatever I am striving to do, help me not worry
so that I can do the work with confidence. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
