You know the days when you think that you’re not going to make it, or the months when you wonder how you’re going to pay your bills. Worry constantly nags us, and without wanting to, our minds drift to our concerns.

This was one of those months. My husband had a dental emergency. He lost one of his front teeth, leaving him with a gap in his smile, and he smiled often. We didn’t know what to do. He required extra medications. We didn’t know how we were going to pay for it. There was only one thing we could do: pray. 
Don’t fret or worry. Instead of worrying, pray. Let petitions and praises shape your worries into prayers, letting God know your concerns. Before you know it, a sense of God’s wholeness, everything coming together for good, will come and settle you down. It’s wonderful what happens when Christ displaces worry at the center of your life (Philippians 4:6-7).

We had some items in storage that we’ll probably never use again. My husband arranged to sell these items to help us survive this month. We’ve sold a few items, and we still have a few things to sell, such as his golf caddy bags, clubs, balls and tees. He doesn’t think he’ll ever be able to play golf again. The stroke caused too much damage. 

Nevertheless, we kept on praying. We decided to trust God and to be grateful, whatever the outcome.  
The world is full of so-called prayer warriors who are prayer-ignorant. They’re full of formulas and programs and advice, peddling techniques for getting what you want from God. Don’t fall for that nonsense. This is your Father you are dealing with, and he knows better than you what you need. With a God like this loving you, you can pray very simply (Matthew 6:7-9).

I’m happy to report that we were able to discuss payment terms with the dentist. We can pay for the treatment in two installments. My husband should be able to show off his smile publicly again towards the end of this month.

We’re still not out of the woods, but somehow God provides on a daily basis. Where I saw only lack, I’m now beginning to see light. I’m certain that we will look back over this month and be amazed at what God has done.

God will not have needed our assistance to take care of us. The cash our sold items brought in will come in handy at the sewing store, as they accept only cash, and I need a few pieces of cloth to sew some clothes for next year. I can buy my husband a much-needed electric shaver for our wedding anniversary or for Christmas. He said that he needed a new shaver, as his is more than twenty years old already. 

I have had many difficult seasons in my life, and many days in which I didn’t know how I would survive. I can attest to the fact that God has never failed me. I haven’t gone to bed hungry one night, or spent one day without a roof over my head.

I don’t have financial wealth, but I have a heavenly Father who faithfully watches over me and provides all my needs. He is worthy of trust, gratitude, and praise.