SERENDIPITIES
Mirriam-Webster.com defines “serendipity” as “the faculty or phenomenon of finding valuable or agreeable things not sought for.” Let’s translate that into “Street English.” It means that sometimes good stuff happens in ways you weren’t expecting. Pleasant surprises and blessings.
Nearly three weeks ago, Linda was diagnosed with stage-four ovarian cancer. We’ve been at the Gerson Clinic for nearly two weeks. Linda is doing well and making progress, which is encouraging. As long as her numbers are moving in the right direction, we know we’re going to emerge victorious.
While we’ve been here, the Lord has blessed us with many unexpected surprises. Serendipities.
Amazing new friends: Like soldiers in combat, others here are battling an enemy which has invaded their bodies. We’ve deeply bonded with those fighting the same battle.
Healthy life changes: As we change our diet, our bodies rid themselves of toxins. We both feel better than we’ve felt in ages. Past health issues—stuff like arthritis and sleep disorders—are improving.
Trusting God in new ways: Isaiah 43:2 promises “When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overflow you” (NKJV). Notice it doesn’t say, “IF you pass through the waters…” but “WHEN.” God never promises to remove our pain, but he assures us that he “will be with” us.
New intimacy in our marriage: This experience has drawn us closer together than ever. Prior to Linda’s illness, I didn’t realize how deeply I loved my wife. Now I know that I truly would do anything for her. Ephesians 5:29 instructs a husband to nourish and cherish his wife. It's so easy to take each other for granted. We don’t even realize it’s happening. What a serendipity to see how intensely we’re falling in love again. We’re experiencing more intimacy and appreciation for each other than we’ve ever known.
One afternoon, through tears, Linda grabbed my hands, and cried, “I love you so much! I couldn’t do this without you.” You can’t imagine how much that meant to me.
Right now, pause and take the hand of someone you love. Look into their eyes and pour out your sincere appreciation for them. It might be awkward. It might stretch you a bit, but you’ll discover hidden blessings in that simple action. Each day, God loves to reach down and touch us with unexpected surprises. Open yourself to his amazing serendipities.
Principle: God loves to bless us with His serendipities.
Ponder:
When have you experienced serendipities from the Lord?
How can you show those closest to you how much you love and value them?
Pursue: For a deeper dive, study Isaiah 43.
Prayer: Lord God, thank you for your serendipities—your hidden blessings. Please open my eyes and heart to receive them.