Psalm 18:19 – He brought me forth also into a large place; he delivered me, because he delighted in me. (KJV)
Psalm 31:15 – My times are in thy hand: deliver me from the hand of mine enemies, and from them that persecute me. (KJV)
Several years ago, I ran into an acquaintance in the middle of what is usually a busy mall. We'd not seen each other in awhile, and we started in talking right away, as there were a few things we wanted to catch up on. Included in our conversation was something of a confidential nature.
As I was aware that there were stores all around, as well as couches and tables where people could rest, relax, or have coffee, I suggested that we should not be discussing that particular topic in a public place.
Her answer amazed me, when she said, "Look around us. There is no one within listening distance. We are surrounded by a huge, open space. God always provides us with time or space when we need it, and we need it now." Admittedly, so engrossed in the conversation was I that I'd not looked behind me or taken notice of whether or not people were close or distant, but she was right. It was as if we were standing in the middle of a vacant island.
Since that time, I began taking notice, real notice, of instances where I needed time — sometimes only a few minutes, sometimes more — or space, and if it was for something useful and important, I've been given it.
Our "enemies" or those that "persecute" us can sometimes also be the busy, crammed lives we lead — never feeling like we have enough time to do what needs to be done, or what we think needs to be done.
What an awesome, awesome walk we can have in our spiritual journey when we leave it in His hands. Nothing else in our life matches the magnitude of what we are given on a daily basis. Time and space are but two of those things.
Prayer: Lord, let us be open to slowing down our busy lives, knowing that You will provide us with the time we need to do the things that are important to us, to others, to You. Lead us to trust that whether it be time or space, or any of the things in the multitude of our life's necessities, they will be provided as You see fit. In Your name we pray. Amen.
