Answered prayer

Our continual prayer for the past six months has been for a job for Fred. We were shocked to discover that yes, the economy is very bad and it is very difficult to get a job, even if you are highly qualified. The opportunities for electricians are very limited and our bank account was emptying out quickly, mainly due to the high cost of health insurance. Soon we would be joining the ranks of Americans without insurance. Not a good idea at our ages. Fred needs a job. When, Lord, when?

Just as the situation became desperate, God intervened. He has never failed to provide for us. We have had many years of lean times in the past, but God can always be trusted. He is faithful! Why I worry so much, I don't know. It is not the way of God to give us instant answers and quick relief from our distress. He wants us to be patient and wait for his solution to our problems.

Fred did his part in searching for a job by applying to dozens of companies. A constant stream of opportunities were sent to him via e-mail from the job placement guy at his school. That man tried hard to get Fred a job. And Fred tried hard too. Nothing. The few interviews he was granted came to naught. I saw my husband sinking lower and lower.

My son Jon is a manager of a large company and pulled some strings to get Fred in. This job is extremely hard physically and pays very poorly. Still, it is work and Fred is grateful to have it. Jon's intervention prevented some serious financial trouble for us. Then Fred was also hired to do some maintenance work at our church two days a week. That might possibly lead into some electrical work, but for now, it is just plain difficult. Fred has been trying to juggle both and comes home exhausted. He is not just juggling two jobs, but mine too, as census work is still going on. Still, we are grateful to God for his provision.

Then, out of the blue, Fred got a call from an old acquaintance he hadn't spoken with in years. This man is having major surgery and needs someone to take over his business while he recuperates. Fred called me from the road to tell me about this opportunity. I heard the excitement in his voice and knew something big had happened. Fred started off by saying, "It's a miracle!" Fred will be going back into his old career, but not at the same level of intensity. Hopefully he can spare his body the ravages this kind of work has already done on him. Last week Fred spent a couple of days at this office and came home a new man. Revived! My husband is back! This is the work he is meant to do. God knew just what Fred needed and God provided. Not just money to pay bills. God restored the joy in Fred.

Stop worrying, whatever your fears, whatever your trial in this life. "People ought always to pray and not lose hope."Luke 18:1. Do your part by telling God what you need. He is near to the broken-hearted, the fearful, the desperate. "Wait for the Lord; be strong, and let your heart take courage; wait for the Lord!" Psalm 27:14. The answer will come. "He who promised is faithful." Hebrews 10:23.