Once while driving home, in the dark of night, near Indianapolis, IN the traffic was heavy. The Indianapolis 500 had just concluded, and many people were filling the interstate and making their way back home.
It was in this traffic that I heard a very odd noise coming from the engine. It was not a constant noise but would occur about every 10 to 15 minutes. I began a silent prayer, “Lord, just let me make it home.”
Fortunately, I did make it home and for those who care, I later found that it was an A/C compressor issue. But I think of this moment in my history because it highlights an important notion, which is we only take the big things to God.
My circumstance was dire. It was late. It was dark. It was over two hours from home. If I were to be stranded, it could easily turn into a very long night.
My hope was the Lord just let the car make it. This is out of my control. Please help me. Please just let me get home and I can get it repaired later.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with that prayer. I am so thankful God said “yes” to that prayer.
I do not think I am alone when I say that my typical practice is to really depend on God for the “Big Things” which tend to be, things out of my control: Rough engines at night when far from home, or bigger medical procedures.
Yet I am more prone to handle things “In my control”. No need to bother God with this.
Now, my words are not to be to the extreme that when we clip our finger nails we must pray to the Lord. That is absolutely not the purpose.
Rather, it is more an attitude that we must adopt. Every single breath is a gift. The simple act of breathing, God is in control.
The old hymn, I need thee every hour – I have adopted at times, Lord, I need you every second. I am utterly, totally dependent upon You.
From Psalm 73 God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. Keep that in mind!
S.D.G.