Gary and I recently have been struggling with money. Gary has a wonderful job but with the recent struggles in the economy, his company has suffered too. Last September when our family returned from a wonderful vacation at the beach and Gary was hit with a 10% pay cut. We were concerned because we had just found out that I was pregnant with Addison but we dealt with it and the Lord provided what we needed. In February or March of this year Gary’s company cut hours in some departments and his department was cut. At that point, Gary started looking for another job and looking for a part-time job. We were praying and praying and it seemed that no job (either part-time or full-time) was coming our way. There were a few job offers but nothing fit what we needed. My due date was quickly approaching and there was still no answer in sight. Both of us began to pray even harder. Addison arrived and without me working, our budget was even tighter. One evening in May, we came home from an evening out, picked up with mail and found a strange envelope. Gary opened it up and we found a check for $1000! We were in shock! There was no return address, just a letter.
Gary and Natalie
This is a gift from the Lord, He has blessed you with every spiritual blessing in Christ (Ephesians 1:3) and He supplies all your needs (Philippians 4:19). He is increasing your faith and your rest. This blessing and these trials are meant for your glory. 2 Corinthians 4:17 says, “For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all.” His power and riches are better than any trials. Be encouraged! This is only for a season.
“Though the cherry trees don’t blossom and the strawberries don’t ripen. Though the apples are worm-eaten and the wheat fields stunted. Though the sheep pens are sheepless and the cattle barns are empty. I’m singing joyful praise to God. I’m turning cartwheels of joy to my savior God. Counting on God’s Rule to prevail, I take heart and gain strength. I run like a deer. I feel like I’m king of the mountain!” Habakkuk 3:17-19 (The Message)
Gary and I were so encouraged! Neither of us have ever been blessed like this before. The money pulled us through till I began working again. Just when Gary and I felt we were at a dead end, the Lord gave us exactly what we needed, when we needed it! Jesus is always faithful, always there to meet our need! Thank you Jesus!
And many blessings and a HUGE thank you to whomever sent us the gift!
