If Only We Would Ask...

"The prayer of a righteous man is powerful and effective." James 5:16b

The Lord has really been teaching me how and why to pray. As Justin and I enter into some exciting months ahead, with major decisions that will effect our family, we have realized the importance of taking every detail to the Lord. While learning this, I wanted to share with you some thoughts, as well as a personal example of what God is doing through prayer.

We had the priviledge of hearing from a couple, the Jane's, in Sunday School last week. They gave their testimony and talked about the importance of prayer in marriage. They emphasized WHY it works and HOW we should do it. It could not have been a more perfect lesson for Justin and I. We have been really convicted about having more prayer time together as a family and seeing the fruition of it in others' lives really hit home.

As I look back in my life and see the things that I have really sought God after, it truly is amazing how powerful and effective our prayers can be, if only we ask. I've seen healing, restoration, salvation and so much more. Honestly, however, some of my favorite things is to see the details. There was 1 time in college that I needed exactly $100 to cover the rest of my monthly bills, so that's what I prayed for. No kidding, the next day, a family I babysat for gave me $100 for a "summer bonus"! Talk about being faithful. He will always provide what we need.

Recently, I have been burdened about how we would buy Christmas presents. God has richly blessed us with my job and Justin's graduate school, however, we are on a budget, especially now with our Tater on the way. Our first year of marriage, we were blessed enough to have a ton of gifts cards left over from our wedding to buy gifts. Last year, Justin sold his student season tickets for a large sum that more than covered the cost. However, that money this year is going to pay for a trip out west for Justin to look at Ph.D positions. So, here we were, thinking, how much do we need to save for the next 4 months to buy Christmas presents?

Some would say, "Don't worry, it's not a big deal. Families understand with a baby coming." However, those people obviously don't know me. The way I show love and appreciation towards others is giving. I love to make things, bake things, and surprise people, even with little things. So, to think of a Christmas that I didn't go out seeking the perfect gift for each person I love the most would honestly be torturous to me. I also love a deal, so I actually enjoy working with a budget. So, Justin and I discussed exactly how many people we would buy for and how much we would spend on each. With that said, I gave it to the Lord and asked that He would provide. Provide He did!

Last weekend, a dear, sweet friend of mine, Mindy, got married. I was given the opportunity to do her hair, as well as her bridesmaids. I was able to make just enough to cover our Christmas present budget!!! I could not be more excited or thankful! Again, if only we would ask, He always provides!

Thank you Lord, for your faithfulness.