6 minute read
Kingdom Promise: Abundance, Hope, and a Future
by Kelly Williams Hale
WHAT'S INSIDE?
As a Christian, I know God has a plan for me. So, when things don’t go according to plan—my plan, that is—I try to find God’s lesson in the situation. One specific incident comes to mind that I’d like to share.
Several years ago, I wanted to return an item I bought at a local bookstore. The first time I took it in, I was hoping to get my cash back, so I needed the receipt. That was nothing unusual; however, I had to find the receipt! While the cashier patiently waited, I proceeded to create a heaping mess on the counter: clipped coupons, two pens, some change, lipsticks (who needs four lipsticks in one purse?), and random slips of paper and other receipts—just not the one I needed.
“You can get store credit,” the helpful, young clerk suggested.
“No, that’s ok. I have the receipt here somewhere,” I replied while still digging through my purse. At that point, the contents of my purse completely covered the countertop. The clerk continued to smile while customers began lining up behind me. “Huh,” I mumbled, “I guess I don’t have it. (duh) I’ll just take this back and look for it at home,” I managed to squeak as I scooped everything back INTO my purse. I knew I had that receipt...somewhere.
Unfortunately, I never did find the receipt. Knowing I would only get store credit, I headed back to the store to return my item. As expected, when I told the clerk I didn’t have my receipt she said, “That’s ok, you can get store credit.”
Super, I thought to myself.
By the way, I love this bookstore. In fact, I don’t think I’ve met a bookstore I don’t like. Truly, it’s like a library—I could spend hours there. After shopping for about 15 minutes, the store manager approached me and informed me that she could not accept my return without a receipt because it was an electronics item.
“The policy is clearly stated on the receipt,” she said. I later looked at a receipt; it does NOT say electronics, but rather “software.” My item was an accessory to my son’s PlayStation but did include an instructional CD. What she said next, however, seemed more likely. “We really can’t put your item back on the shelf in the condition it’s in.”
Aha! Now I understand.
You see, between visit #1 and visit #2, the box remained in my vehicle and, um, did get a little banged up. And the plastic tabs that seal the box had come undone and somehow attracted dirt, sand, and small bits of fuzz. I could see her point.
That evening, I stopped at Walmart to pick up some packing tape, brought my box home, and “cleaned ‘er up.” Although I understood the manager’s position, the facts were that I did purchase this item, it was brand-new, and I expected a refund (or store credit, which was totally ok with me). My plan was to return to the store with my “refreshed” item and discuss the situation with the manager. I fully expected our conversation to include me explaining how much money I spent at this store, asking if they wanted to lose a customer, blah, blah, blah. I wanted to stand up for myself but still be humble. I prayed for God to give me the right attitude and the right words.
We can make our plans, but the Lord determines our steps. PROVERBS 16:9 (NLT)
So.
I headed BACK to the bookstore, carrying my item. The cashier asked straightaway, “Return?”
“Yes,” I answered, “but I don’t have a receipt.”
“No problem, you can get store credit.”
O… kay... I was a bit nervous after my last visit. I figured I’d have to talk to someone to explain. But nope—no questions, no manager finding me squatting in the aisle looking at the books on the lower shelf to tell me that my box wasn’t “pretty enough.” Granted, the box did look better. They could easily restock it. The electronics guitar, instructions, and CD were still inside— untouched as before. But now, because the package looked more presentable, everything was peachy-keen.
Remember the beginning of this story? When I stated that when I encounter an unexpected situation (that often includes disappointment), I’ve learned to ask God what lesson I’m meant to learn? Hmmm…, I thought to myself. I walked into this bookstore with an “ugly” box that the manager deemed unworthy. But after I cleaned up the outside and went back with a “prettier” package, it was suddenly ok to accept. Even though the contents inside remained the same.
With these thoughts swirling in my head, the Holy Spirit gave me this scripture: Your beauty should not come from outward adornment... Rather, it should be that of your inner self, the unfading beauty of a gentle and quiet spirit, which is of great worth in God’s sight” (1 Peter 3:3-4 NIV).
What a beautiful reminder! How often do we make a judgment based on what our limited eyes can see? I’ve been guilty of doing this; I bet you have been, too. But God does not judge the outer appearance. He cares more about what is on the inside. Instead of focusing so much on the “packaging”—how someone (or something) appears on the surface—let us remember that what is beautiful (and lasting) is found on the inside.
Dear God, help us not to get so caught up in outward appearances. Lord, we repent for judging ourselves and others by what the world says is “acceptable.” Help us remember that true beauty comes from the inside. Let us cultivate a gentle and quiet spirit, which is more valuable than gold in Your eyes. We thank You and love You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
Kelly Williams Hale is a speaker, author, and life coach. She is passionate about Jesus and encourages others to deepen their personal relationship with Him. Her teaching and online courses help Christian women walk in their unique calling to bring God glory. Partnering with the Holy Spirit, Kelly teaches women how be courageous and confident in Christ. Her speaking topics include spiritual growth, emotional resilience, and leadership. She is happily married (third time’s a charm!), a mom of three—each born a decade apart— delivering her youngest at 44 years old. Kelly is living proof that our mess truly becomes our message and past mistakes don’t define future success. You're invited to join the Facebook group, Sisters Who Shine, or visit thebebravelife.com for more information.
