Wednesday, December 30, 2009

The Real Deal


Car shopping. Not my favorite pastime, but a necessity since our vehicle is closing in on 150,000 miles, with some major repairs looming. We had numerous options. We hadn’t made a decision beyond the fact that we knew we were interested in a pre-owned vehicle. It was only when we began comparing features that we realized we did have some definite requirements and preferences.


My husband and I had narrowed down our search based on price point, function, and value. Since we had a number of different makes and models we were considering, we set off on our search for the perfect choice for our family.


The first vehicle we drove handled well, but had a fairly spartan interior. As we continued our search, we drove a vehicle we loved, but were unable to get the dealer to negotiate to our price point. A third vehicle was quickly checked off our list when we realized it didn’t have some of the features we knew we wanted.


By now, evening was upon us. The sun had gone down and a cold, wintry wind made it easy to call it quits for the day. The drive home gave us an opportunity to compare notes. We were in agreement about the make and model of vehicle. Now, if we could only find one at our price point. After prayer, additional research, and a few phone calls, we found the vehicle that will replace our well-loved Acura. And wow, what a deal!


As I think about the long list of requirements the new vehicle meets, I can’t help but draw a spiritual comparison. There is a void in each one of us that is aching to be filled. We may think that friendship will fill the void. Maybe a successful career or accumulating wealth will be the answer. Many have tried these things only to come up short. The only thing that will meet our many ‘requirements,’ and fill our void is the person, Jesus Christ.


I love contemplating everything He is in my ever-changing circumstances. On those days when I’m struggling, Psalm 121:5 reminds me that, “The Lord is thy keeper: the Lord is thy shade upon thy right hand” (KJV). He is my shelter during life’s inevitable storms (Psalm 61:3). He consistently offers me grace and mercy. “Gracious is the Lord, and righteous; yea, our God is merciful” (Psalm 116:5).


When I am weak, He is my strength. “The Lord is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation” (Exodus 15:2). The Apostle Paul’s words to the Philippians assure me of my God’s provision, “But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus” (Philippians 4:19).


He is my treasure and my portion forever. The Psalmist, David, penned the following words that express this thought, “The Lord is the portion of mine inheritance and of my cup” (Psalm 16:5a).
I could never find a closer friend. A friend who will never leave me nor forsake me (Hebrews 13:5b) A friend who willingly laid down His life for me. “I am the good shepherd: the good shepherd giveth his life for the sheep” (John 10:11). In every situation, He is everything I need and so much more. The real deal. What are you in need of today? Let Jesus Christ meet each one of your needs. He alone is faithful and able!

10 comments:

  1. Funny you would post this...we are beginning to realize we need to start looking for a newer vehicle. I really don't enjoy that whole song and dance of getting a new car...have a car payment again just makes me sick. But like yours...ours is 9 years old and 120,000 miles on it and has started to drain us with little repairs. We are praying God will lead us to the right one when the time is right.
    Thank you for your words of wisdom and that he will meet all my needs and I don't need to worry about it! I'm good at that...worrying...:)

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  2. Wooohooo for a new car! That's so awesome how God provided!

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  3. He is FULLY able! He met our needs in a new vehicle this year. The exact make, model, color, the I prayed for. My first brand new, showroom floor 2010 vehicle. Ever.

    Thank you Jesus for being my provider!

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  4. Steph - Welcome! Absolutely can relate to your situation! Our Acura was also 9 years old and was a 'member' of our family. I'll be praying that you will find the right vehicle for your family at the right time! God bless!:)

    Kristen - God is an amazing provider! Jehovah Jireh!! Have a fantastic day!

    Tamika - Wow!! Congratulations on your new vehicle! He certainly is able to meet all of our needs - and He's so good to go beyond and meet our 'wants' so often, too!!Enjoy His goodness!

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  5. Right on time Maria... trust. that's the ticket.

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  6. He is everything we need. Blessings and Happy New Year to all! :)

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  7. Glad God supplied your need for a car. We also had to get a newer truck. It was a 2007.
    New enough for us. And yes! The Lord is all we need. He has supplied our every need and some of our wants. So good to us.

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  8. Ginger - Praying for you, as you adjust to a major life transition! Trust is key! God bless!

    Karen - Thanks for stopping by! Happy New Year to you and your family as well!

    Aliene - Glad you were able to get a 'new-to-you' truck! May the Lord continue to meet your needs and bless you in great ways this coming year! God is good!

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  9. Congrats on the new vehicle, and thanks for a special devotional. :)

    Blessings,
    Susan

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  10. Susan - You are too sweet! God's blessings to you in the new year!

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