Was it a Coincidence?
Today over 275 women will flock to our church in Flower Mound, Texas to hear Gigi Graham share about growing up as the daughter of world renowned evangelist Billy Graham.
However, almost two years ago, I was crying in my coffee because another speaker, who I admire, had turned down our invitation to speak. I had given her carte blanche on dates, telling her we’d work around her schedule, but she still did not want to speak to us, slamming the door on our invitation.
I had just received this news when our annual women’s retreat rolled around. During one of the meal breaks at the retreat, I sat down at the same table with a communications staff member, Randee, at the church. I shared my sad tale about the speaker who got away. She replied, “My mom is good friends with Gigi Graham, Billy Graham’s daughter. She speaks. Do you think you’d be interested in her?” All of the sudden my coffee began to taste a whole lot better!
“Your mom is good friends with Billy Graham’s daughter? Absolutely! We would love to hear her story!”
There was no delay in a response. Randee’s mom asked Gigi to if she’d be interested in coming to our church. She was available, and we began to plan our day with Gigi Graham 22 months ago.
Was it a coincidence that I happened to not only be sitting with Randee at the lunch table, but also decided to share about the speaker issues? I don’t think so.
God knew who was supposed to speak to our women. He knew the message they were supposed to hear, and he orchestrated a divine appointment to make it happen. God is GOOD!
I love the New Living Translation of Proverbs 16:9: We can make our plans, but the LORD determines our steps.
When your plans don’t work out, do you trust that God has something better for you?
After spending some time with the engaging Gigi Graham last night, I am thankful the other speaker said “no” to our invitation, because I truly believe there are no coincidences in life. This is what the Lord had in mind for us all along!
What about you? Do you believe in coincidences?
I truly believe it was God’s plan. I am learning to not be too disappointed if things don’t work out as I had planned because that just means God has something better in mind! Gigi brought us a great message today. I am so glad that it was her who came to speak. I loved her quote –“God doesn’t always calm the storm, but He calms the child.”
Sometimes in our disappointment we forget that closed doors are a key part not only of God’s guidance, but His protection. Those closed doors save us from making some wrong turns, and so I am especially grateful for them. 🙂