Behind the Scenes

We all know that GOD is working even when we can't see any physical results--behind the scenes, as it were, but it is very easy for us to forget this--without even realizing it sometimes. If someone were to ask us outright whether we doubted our prayers would be answered, we would most likely say, "No, I believe they will be." Yet we tend to show just the opposite in deed, manifesting a faith and courage so languid that it's as though we've said, "You're right. They won't be answered, not now or anytime soon." Sometimes I wonder if that is why, when prayer is answered, we marvel so much--because we did not altogether believe it would be in the first place, because we dared not hope for too much.

My friend *Sean* was texting me the other night, and out of the blue, he said he was giving up a certain vice, that he was done with it. I could not believe my eyes. "Zelda! Look! Look!" I exclaimed, pointing to the screen. When she read it, she was happy as well. I responded with an exclamation of praise, and Sean asked me if I had prayed. I told him that I had.

With this, I had actually reached that point where you pray about it, knowing GOD is capable, but not expecting too much to come of it. In fact, it was somewhat forgotten in the hustle and bustle of life. I know that was wrong, and in light of the great thing He has done, I feel ashamed; but I thank GOD for working it out nevertheless, even though my faith was weary and my mind forgetful.

It gave me hope for other problems, and reminded me of another similar incident that happened a few years ago. *Ginger* and I were talking about appropriate music, particularly in regards to worship. Music is usually a touchy subject with people, and especially when  people see that you hold to very conservative views like I do. When I expressed my beliefs, she became very upset. Finally I said, "Let's just agree to disagree; no use ruining our friendship over this."

She agreed, and we continued to chat as usual, always avoiding the subject. I remembered to pray about it a few times immediately afterwards, but I soon forgot. Sometimes it would come back to me, and I would pray, but I'm sad to say there were no constant petitions made on Ginger's behalf.

A year later she messaged me and said, "You remember that conversation we had about music awhile back?"

"Yes, I do," I replied. "Why?"

"Well, GOD showed me that you were right," she answered, and went on to explain how, though all the particulars are hazy now.

I had nearly forgotten about these things, but GOD hadn't. It took a few months for one, a year for another, but He answered my prayers--and the feeble ones at that! If GOD works so wondrously behind the scenes for requests of that sort, what would the answer be if we were, "praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints" (Ephesians 6:18)? Something worth considering, isn't it?

Blessings,
Jean