God Already Knows

And patience (endurance) produces tested and proven character, and tested and proven character produces hope. Romans 5:4

Last week, I diligently researched a couple of vacations for clients and, after several hours, created the trips they requested. With all the details confirmed and vouchers printed, I dropped their travel packets in the mail with a great sense of accomplishment. It was one of those days that aligned with the Bible verse from Colossians 3:23, which reads, “Whatever things you are doing, do them well. Remember that you are serving the Lord. You are not only serving people.” I was happy with the results and my attitude towards the work.

Yesterday I received emails from both clients that they needed to cancel their entire trips. In my line of work, you don’t get paid until the clients travel, so this meant that all the work I had done would not be generating any income. My initial response was a heavy sigh and a bit of frustration, until this thought crossed my mind: “God already knew they would cancel before they made their original travel requests.” Knowing that, why would He allow me to do all that work for nothing? Why this waste of time? Or was it?

Several years ago, when I started my business, I made the decision that I worked for God and that I wanted to work this business as if I were making each reservation for Him. Basically, I was on His time clock, which means that it wasn’t my time, but His time. Every call, text, or email, He knows about before I even receive it, and they all have a purpose. Many do eventually generate income. Others, like the two from last week, I believe, are used by Him to develop my character. They are opportunities to practice patience, take my thoughts captive, and be grateful for every experience that He provides.

When I took time to think about it, there were several benefits from the work that was done. I learned exciting details about some destinations that I have never traveled to, which is one of my favorite activities in this line of work. I felt a sense of pride in taking care of all the details with the hope that the trip would be even more than the client hoped or imagined. And it allowed me to show grace to my clients when it didn’t turn out the way I hoped it would.

This experience was a beautiful reminder that God is fully aware of every detail of our lives. Everything has purpose, whether it’s a victory, a defeat, or anything in between. God doesn’t waste anything and never misses a teaching moment. How fortunate we are to have a Father who loves us as much as He does and one who provides everything we will need to become more like Him. Never forget that you are a beloved Daughter of The King.