My friend, Margaret Feinberg, has a new book and 7-session DVD Bible study called Wonderstruck: Awaken to the Nearness of God (releasing Christmas Day)—a personal invitation for you to toss back the covers, climb out of bed, and drink in the fullness of life.
Through Wonderstruck, you’ll learn how to recognize the presence of God in the midst of your routine, unearth extraordinary moments on ordinary days, develop a renewed passion for God, identify what’s holding you back in prayer, and discover joy in knowing you’re wildly loved.
The topic of Margaret’s book is especially near and dear to my heart because of the ways I’ve seen God’s wonder in my own life. There’s the moment I decided to follow Jesus, the stunning beauty and grace of my wife, and the miracle of my three boys. I’m wonderstruck when I open God’s Word to a passage I’ve read 100 times and I learn something new. I’m wonderstruck when I’m preparing to teach the Bible and God gives me just the right words that point people to Him. Everywhere I look in my life I see reason to be in awe of my Heavenly Father.
One specific occasion was just a few years ago when I started my own consulting business. Money was tight one month and I didn’t know how I was going to make ends meet. Then after buying gas one day I found a wallet with $500 cash in it. The temptation to keep the money was powerful, but I was reminded of Jesus’ words: “love your neighbor as yourself.” I knew if it was my money I’d want it back, so I returned it.
Two days later I had a pastor ask to meet me for coffee and some consulting. He couldn’t pay me, but he was desperate for some insight. Once again Jesus’ words about loving my neighbor echoed in my mind. Reluctantly I agreed to consult with this pastor for free.
I’d like to say that my attitude during our meeting was fantastic and that I was full of joy, but that’s just not true. Rather, I was worried, frustrated and full of doubt. We were sitting on the patio of a coffee shop when the manager came out and said, “Someone just gave me this envelope for Alan. Which one of you is Alan?” I raised my hand and he gave me the envelope with my first and last name on it. I asked the manager if he knew who it was from and he said, “I don’t know. The person left.” I opened the envelope to find five $100 bills.
I cried.
I am wonderstruck every time I remember that story because I’m reminded that God loves me and cares about every detail of my life. I’m reminded that doing the right thing is always worth it and that God is my ultimate provider. I’m also reminded of His tremendous grace, because even though I had a rotten attitude He still chose to bless me.
Get to know the author of Wonderstruck by following Margaret’s snarky, funny, and inspirational posts on Twitter, Facebook, or her blog. You can learn more about this great book by visiting www.margaretfeinberg.com/wonderstruck where she’s offering some crazy promos right now with up to $300 of free stuff. I’ve seen the book for as low as $7.95 ($14.99 retail) on Barnes & Noble for all you savvy shoppers.
So where have you seen the wonder of God in your life?
I’m wonderstruck by your story! I probably would’ve cried, too, if that had happened to me. Thank you for sharing and thank you so much for posting this. Blessings on your day!