Underestimating God

Ever read Exodus and think, "What was wrong with those people?"

The Israelites see God a.) part the Red Sea, b.) give them bread from heaven and c.) get water from a rock and still they complain that they're going to die of hunger in the desert. They still doubt that he's looking out for them.

And what do they do? They doubt and gripe and start worshiping a golden calf.

Today I had the realization that I am so very much like the Israelites - and that this attitude will totally get in the way of evangelization.

Here's my story: I underestimate God. Even though I've seen Him work miracles, change lives and do the impossible, I still doubt that He's going to come through.

An example: I had a job interview today that required I go to downtown DC. I decided to take the metro rather than fight the traffic. All day yesterday, there was a persistent worry in the back of my mind that I would not find a parking space at the metro station - a reasonable fear, since I'd be arriving at the station after rush hour.

Last night, in the midst of my worry, God prompted me to open up The Word Among Us and these parts of the Nov. 18th meditation jumped out at me:

Don't forget who God is! Remember his love for you! Remember his good plan for you and your family! Remember that he made the universe and has everything under control... Approach this day alert to the opportunities and challenges you will face, but be sure to look up! When you are tempted to sin or feel weighed down by burdens, try to picture the God who made the universe looking on you in love.

Reassured, I went to sleep in peace.

This morning, I got to the metro station at about 9:30. I needed to be on the train leaving at 9:47.

There were no parking spaces. I circled the lot three times. Absolutely nothing available, and I started to worry because while there was a later train I could take, it would require that I run to make the interview on time and me running in heels is a recipe for disaster.

In fact, I start to gripe out loud, "God, I really need a parking space. Can't you find me one?" (Which sounds awfully similar to the Israelites whining about why they can't have meat. Mea culpa.)

I barely finished the sentence before I found an empty spot, which was definitely not there on the previous lap.

So yes, I am an Israelite. But I'm really glad God pointed it out to me this morning. Because as I've thought about this, I've realized that this attitude of underestimating God can carry over in my attitude towards evangelization.

God can soften even the hardest hearts. Therefore, I should be willing to share the Gospel even with people I'm sure will reject it. I shouldn't underestimate what powerful things God can do with my witness and my words.

Because He is the God who can change lives, turn water into wine, part the Red Sea, rise from the dead and find parking spaces at the metro.

Who am I to doubt Him?