I bet some readers will think this post is about wisely spending money. Wrong. God taught me something through my credit card that has nothing to do with my monthly budget or wise use of my resources.
In Wal-Mart, I went to the ATM machine to get cash. I inserted my debit card, keyed in the code and the amount, and waited. All of a sudden, my card disappeared into the bowels of the machine, out of my reach. An ominous message appeared on the screen. Something about how they took my card, and I should see my banking institution.
If I thought it would do any good, I would’ve kicked the machine and demanded it give my little piece of plastic back. I looked around for help and the lines at customer service were ten deep. Besides, those people had nothing to do with the machine. I didn’t dare leave the spot. What if the machine generously returned the card later, but to another person?
I called the 1-800-Walmart number that was listed on the wall. After going through 10 mazes, I finally talked to a woman who wasn’t able to help me. By that time, I couldn’t think straight, I was so rattled. I could barely tell her what my problem was.
Long story short, my husband called our banker 2000 miles away, and they canceled that account, promising to send a new card.
So, what did God teach me through my credit card? The next morning, I was reading 1Thessalonians 5:16-18. “Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.”
I hadn’t prayed at all, much less rejoiced or gave thanks for the circumstances, knowing God would use it for my good. Instead, I was consumed with panic. Ridiculous, now that I look back.
Needless to say, I’ve asked God the next time I’m in a stressful situation to remind me to pray and trust in Him to work. That’s not saying I won’t take action, but to pray and trust Him first. And there are other situations much worse than losing one’s card in an ATM machine.
That was a scary experience! I am sure I would have been stressed and worried. I, too, have had experiences where I forget to pray first. I am thankful God forgives me and is ready to listen in every moment. 🙂
It was, Melissa. And what made it worse, we were on an RV trip many miles from home. I knew I couldn’t get to the bank. But the Lord used my husband to solve the problem.