Envelope from "The Lord"

A few days ago I received an envelope in my post box that simply said,  "To: Alison.  From: The Lord".

 In this mysterious little parcel was $50 cash.  I have some suspicions about who the generous donor might be, but to try and find them would rob them of the blessing of giving anonymously. At any rate, the Lord has used someone to bless me specifically and I am grateful.

As I've said before, anything and everything in our world is potential teaching material in the hands of the Master Teacher . There is always something new to learn of the character and love of God.  Yes, a random envelope with $50 is a very tangible gift, easy to identify and understand.  But what about those "blessings in disguise", those lesser-known,  often unappreciated gifts from God?

What about the conviction that pierces your heart when you have strayed from God's design and path for you? Could this discomfort be the very thing that protects you and brings you back into a healthy relationship with God and others?  (" Don’t you see how wonderfully kind, tolerant, and patient God is with you? Does this mean nothing to you? Can’t you see that his kindness is intended to turn you from your sin? Romans 2:4 NLT)


 What about the chronically ill loved-one who demands your constant care and devotion?  Could this actually be a gift to keep you from drowning in the superficial things of the world? Could this teach you faithfulness and sacrifice, making you more holy like the holy God who sacrificed his very life so that you may live free?

What about the rainstorm that makes your laundy line soggy and the roads slick?  Could that rain be the very thing that your dry land needs so that it can ultimately feed you and the ones you love?

Look around your life today.  Look at your sphere of influence.  Look at the ones you love. Look at your talents and skills.  Look at your inadequacies and struggles.  Look deeply around your world . . do you see any "envelopes from the Lord"?