Thursday, June 8, 2017

HOLD YOUR BREATH!

In 1 John 5:14-15, we read: “Now this is the confidence that we have in Him, that if we ask anything according to His will, He hear us. And if we know that He hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of Him.”


“Grandfather.” A hoarse voice jerked him out of a sound sleep. Awake, he realized the barking raspy cough came from Timmy’s room. Croup. Grandfather turned on the hot water in the shower,  hurried to Timmy’s bedside.

Timmy sat up in his bed, head against his bed pillows, the cough increasing in intensity. “Your medicine, son. Open wide.” Grandfather spooned in the pink liquid between coughing spasms. “Let’s get you into the bathroom--let the steam soothe your throat.”

As the medicine and the steam treatment took effect, Timmy looked at Grandfather, his eyes shimmering with tears. He swiped at them with his pajama sleeve. “Dinner’s out for tomorrow? I wanted to see my cousins.” He hiccuped.

“One thing I know, without a doubt. The Lord answers prayer.”  He gathered Timmy in his arms. As he prayed for this precious grandson, he relaxed, fell asleep, breathing easily. Grandfather laid his head on the pillows, tucked the covers around him.

“Thank you, Heavenly Father.”

The next morning after breakfast, Timmy announced. “I’m ready.” He zipped his jacket. “Come on, Grandfather. Let’s be first to arrive.” Grandfather smiled, grabbed his coat and truck keys.

The late November weather, ushered in a promise of rain, ominous clouds swirling. The wind tugged at Grandfather’s hat. “Timmy,” he said, snapped his mouth shut. I’m sorry, Lord, for almost voicing negative thoughts. 

“Yes, Grandfather.” Timmy fastened his seat belt.

“You’re looking mighty fine this morning. Feeling well?”

“Yessir.” He drew in a deep breath. “Don’t have to hold my breath today.”

Kingdom Thinking. I have confidence in Him, the Lord Jesus, because He promises never to leave nor forsake me. He loves me with an everlasting love. I don’t have to hold my breath or wonder if He cares. He wants you to have confidence in Him. Won’t you come?