Preparing for Rain

Revival week is upon us at First Baptist, and already God has done some interesting and wonderful things. The evangelist team that we had scheduled for the week had to cancel due to a family emergency, and God almost immediately filled the vacancy with another who just happened to have this week open due to a cancellation. "Just happened"? Not likely. Nothing just happens when God is in control. Again, He demonstrates His infinite wisdom and sovereignty in our lives. God is good. God provides, far beyond what we could ask for or even hope for.

I've also had my share of moments these last few weeks. Several letters went out to those of the younger generation of our church who are gifted with musical ability, asking them to be a part of a mission trip to Brazil next summer, to join a music conference there. I sent them. One person publicly stepped forward in faith last Sunday night, to announce his intention to lead this team to Brazil. That would be me. I can only assume that the Spirit of God prompts me to do some of these things I do now, because as I look back on what's happened lately, I keep thinking... "I must be crazy!"

Do I have any idea how this trip is getting paid for? Not when I look at it on paper (or in my case, a computer screen). Am I worried about it? Not really. This is God's trip. If He wants it to happen, He'll keep the door open. I've seen Him provide in miraculous ways before, and I have no doubt that if this is what He wants, He'll do it again. I just have to remember to quit looking at the mountain in front of me and instead focus on who made the mountain in the first place. It still amazes me how small our problems become when we focus on the Lord.

Do I have any idea who's going with me? Not a clue. Even if it turns out to be just me, I'm committed to going, right up to the point when and if God closes the door. Again, this is God's trip. My job in the meantime is to prepare everything I can, while continuing to ask Him to provide what I need. (That's need, not want.) God knows exactly how much it's going to cost. He knows exactly who's going and how they will be used by Him. He knows how each heart will be changed by the experience. How can I not trust a God who knows everything, who loves me enough to exchange the life of His own Son for mine?

I was recently reminded of a great story that I believe applies in this case. Have a look at the other blogs listed to your left, and I'm sure you'll figure out what reminded me.

"I heard a story once, of two farmers who prayed for rain, but only one of the farmers went out and prepared his fields to receive it. Which one do you think trusted God to send the rain?"
"Well, the one who prepared his fields for it."
"Which one are you? God will send the rain when He is ready. Your job is to prepare your field to receive it."

It almost sounds like a parable you might find in the Bible, right? See if you can find it. In the meantime, I'll be preparing for rain.

Commit thy way unto the LORD; trust also in him; and he shall bring it to pass. - Psalm 37:5

Now unto him that is able to do exceeding abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that worketh in us, Unto him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus throughout all ages, world without end. Amen. - Ephesians 3:20-21

PS- AWANA starts tomorrow night. Pray for us!