I heard this statement this week- Those who leave everything in God’s hands will eventually see God’s hands in everything.
I love the simple truth in this. Leaving everything in God’s hands means learning to live with an awareness that God is present, not just in the big things, but also in the ordinary places of our lives. We often expect our deepest encounters with God to happen in extraordinary moments- a worship service, a powerful prayer meeting, a breakthrough, a struggle, a miracle. And certainly, God will meet us there. But what about Tuesday morning?
What about the drive to work, washing dishes, sitting at your desk, mowing the lawn, making dinner, or lying in bed at the end of an exhausting day?
Scripture says, “In him we live and move and have our being.” -Acts 17:28
God is not waiting for your life to become spiritual enough to join you; if you belong to Christ, He is already there! The challenge is whether or not we are paying attention.
This is where we are called to abide in Christ. Jesus said, “Remain in me, as I also remain in you” (John 15:4). Abiding isn't something reserved for an hour of prayer, it is learning to carry an ongoing awareness of Jesus into the routine of everyday life: talk to Him while you're driving. Thank Him when something beautiful catches your attention. Ask for His wisdom before a conversation. Invite Him into your work.
Turn your frustration into prayer instead of letting it become irritation.
And when someone unexpectedly comes to mind, pray for them. When you feel prompted to encourage someone, encourage them. And sometimes, simply stop for ten seconds and acknowledge Him: Jesus, You are here. I want to be aware of You.
This changes the way we experience ordinary life. Eventually, you begin noticing things you once overlooked- an answered prayer, perfectly timed encouragement, an opportunity to love someone, conviction that redirects you, unexpected provision, peace that doesn't match your circumstances.
Obviously, not every coincidence is necessarily a message from God, but you will begin to understand that a heart that continually seeks Him becomes increasingly attentive to what He is doing-“Draw near to God and he will draw near to you.” -James 4:8
This is all the reason more to pursue Him in the ordinary; sometimes the greatest discovery in learning to walk with God isn't finding Him somewhere new, it's realizing He was already present in places you never thought to look.
~Devin
Devin Osborne
The Early Church
