Yesterday when I grocery shopped, my brain gallivanted somewhere. After checkout, I grabbed two bags, stowed them in my car, drove home, unpacked—and realized a third of my purchases was missing.
Did I leave a bag at the checkout counter or in the grocery cart? If in a grocery cart, would someone turn in--or steal the stuff? I was angry that I’d not paid attention at the store.
After a few minutes of beating myself up with regrets, I knew I must return to the store. I was irritated, because I was hungry and supper would now be late. No other choice. Sigh!
As I drove I worked myself into a gallon-sized stew of anger, worry, and frustration. I pouted about the extra (five minutes) trip. I was embarrassed about explaining my predicament to a clerk. What would I say? Would I be believed? How could I prove my problem? I was mad--I haven’t done anything like this in decades. I was fearful--what if the food was gone?
Half way to the store, on the edge of full-scale hysteria, I realized, ”You are way, way over-reacting--blowing a twenty-minute incident into a daylong rant. Settle this with God NOW.”
I prayed, “Lord, I don’t understand, but I’m supposed to thank you, anyway.”
When I walked into the grocers, I felt quick despair. The clerk who’d waited on me was not at any checkout counter. But would he remember me anyway, in such a busy place?
Then I spotted a bag of groceries on the counter nearest the door. No one was nearby. I peeked into the plastic bag. YES! My groceries.
No one paid any attention when, without a word, I walked out of the store.
So simple! In less than one minute, I headed home with my foods. God had saved me from an anticipated disaster.
As I drove homeward I sensed God’s gentle whisper, “Remember this little event as proof that I WILL rescue, care for, protect and help you with the difficult choices ahead.”
I’m so glad I stopped my emotional meltdown and thanked Him. Thankfulness shows faith--to which He responds with blessings.
