Words to Grow On

Archive Devotions

June 21 , 2004

“Code One!”

By

Marie Larrinaga

“He put a new song in my mouth,

a hymn of praise to our God.  Many will see and

fear and put their trust in the Lord.”

Psalm 40:3 (NIV)                                     

              “Code One” sounded over the loud speaker.  When these words rang out, all program staff knew to report to a central location immediately because a child was missing! 

We quickly had a word of prayer and began to search; through the woods, the pool and lake areas, cabins and the surrounding buildings.  After 30 minutes, there was still no sign of the lost camper.  Tensions were building and doubt was beginning to settle within the minds of the searchers.  Darkness was approaching quickly and would make the search all the more difficult.

During the ordeal, God’s Word came to mind and reminded us of a very simple factor “…if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you shall say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it shall move; and nothing shall be impossible to you.”  (Matthew 17:20 NASB)

After 45 minutes of continued believing and trusting in the Lord, the long awaited words were heard, “The camper has been found! Praise the Lord!  Thank you, Jesus, for answering our prayers.”  were the words echoing the campground that evening.

A program staff member later testified that the experience had taught her a lot about trust.  She had promised her Heavenly Father that she would never again doubt Him; regardless of the situation she would be found facing.

Prayer

Lord, may my faith be stronger today and my fervor constant.

And even though I cannot see You, help me to remember

that You are always near and always at my side.

Amen.