GOD-INCIDENT!
Waves cascade upon my soul bringing wisdom of God-incidents which refresh my soul!
Important element of Pastor Jerry’s life: I have learned to work hard on the use of words which align with my faith. For example, I choose to use the word “blessing” instead of “luck” when I talk. It is so important to me, that you will probably never hear me say, “luck”! The same analogy with “coincidences”. I do not believe in them! Therefore I choose to always use the word, “God-incidents”.
Have you ever been to the beach, standing on edge of the surf where the waves crash on the beach, and as you look out toward the ocean wondered, where did that wave come from?
I have so many times in my life! I have wondered how far did that wave, which just ended as it rolled across my feet, actually travel? I have pondered where did its life begin?
I want to share a deep spiritual truth with you…be careful of the words your tongue expresses because as the Word of God clearly reveals, your words express what is actually in your heart! Read James 3:9-12.
Why is this improtant for me to share today? Because today I want to share about the power of God-incidents and not coincidences!
Words my brother and sisters are IMPORTANT! Long ago I was rebuked by Holy Spirit to STOP using the word lucky and to instead affirm that I am blessed!
And long ago HE taught me, “Jerry with me there are no coincidences, BUT there are God-incidents!”
So I have struggled hard to reframe my mind to express these truths in line with His Word; please know it’s an ongoing adventure with God!
During my battle with this brain cancer I have been so blessed to hear and be reminded of so many God-incidents where He was already at work, like waves cascading and washing over my soul, to remind me of this truth which He spoke so clearly to me two weeks ago.
“Jerry, my son I am the Lord thy God and I am with you!!!”
On the Sunday morning that marked the end of my first week of chemotherapy and radiation treatment Ray and Debby took me to Waffle House to celebrate.
Our server, Ms Juanita points us to a table and kindly asks, how can I help you? I hold back, let Debby order first, then rather loudly say, “Ma’m I want your special 3 stack fried potatoes with onion and extra tomato, I want three of your largest eggs fried over easy so the egg yoke runs freely, and I want a large order of bacon! I am celebrating!!!”
Ray, Debby and I had a blast sitting there, eating, worshipping, and enjoying our first cup of coffee rather well!
Ms Juanita is so kind, she knows something is not right with me, but to be honest I’ve been told this over the years by some close friends, even before my brain cancer!
She says, “Sir, I am so sorry with what ever you are going through and I will pray for you!” I looked up and briefly share with her why we are here.
As Ray helps me from the table and we slowly walk to door to leave, I feel a small tap on my back. It’s Ms Juanita asking if she may give me give me a hug? I say, “Sister, I would love too but my doctors have told me during chemo not to hug anyone, for both your protection and mine. This is so hard for me!! Can we do a fist bump?” And so we fist bump goodbye.
Ray gets me into the wheelchair and there in the parking lot a flood of emotions come deep and hard. I am a hugger by nature and wonder out loud, “When can I hug people again?” Debby, as she so freely gives so much lately, says, “Honey it’s ok and HUGS me deep and hard!!”
Questions: Do you believe in God-incidents? As you drink your first cup of coffee today and talk with Jesus, what one God-incident comes to your mind?
May I ask a favor of you? Since I am unable to share the gift of a hug right now, would you please share a hug for me with someone else who has a need?
“Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all, especially to those who are of the household of faith.”
Galatians 6:10 NKJV
Thank You Jesus!
