Three Angels Broadcasting Network Devotional

Just in the Nick of Time.

By Deborah Shaffer September 21

“Call to Me, and I will answer you, and show you great and mighty things, which you do not know.” Jeremiah 33:3​

I have never been a procrastinator. My motto is, “Do the worst first.” A dreaded chore is tackled first, so the rest of my day is more enjoyable. So, when I was asked to speak at a Women’s Conference in India, I immediately began praying about what to share.​

I had taught for years, so I had a computer full of old lessons, yet, none of them felt right. Since this was my first trip to India, I began questioning the other four women who were going with me. They had made this trip many times, so surely they knew what to expect and what the attendees needed to hear. I would benefit from their wisdom.​

“Whatever the Lord lays on your heart,” seemed to be their shared answer, and I thought, Thanks a lot. That was my problem! I didn't feel God’s leading in any direction. Oh, well. The trip was a few months away, so I had plenty of time. But before I knew it, I was boarding the first of many planes, but still no agenda. I had tucked a few lessons and my Bible into my carry-on bag. Surely with almost 40 hours of travel time ahead, God will give me something!​

We arrived at our final destination, exhausted and aching from our travel. The cheerful pastor welcomed us, we piled into the van, and off we went to our hotel. We were reminded that, in just a few hours, we were to speak at the Women’s Conference. I crawled into bed, too tired to try to prepare. I put my Bible, pen, and notebook next to my bed, and as I lay on the pillow my heart still cried out to God for help.​

Nothing.​

I closed my eyes and drifted off. Then, suddenly, my eyes flew open! I grabbed my pen and notebook. Like nothing I’d ever experienced, my hand scribbled frantically as the words now flowed without end from my heart and mind. My prayers were being answered in an instant! I was being given what I was to say, word for word, and I could hardly keep up. Scriptures, along with their references, flowed onto the paper, and when the very last word was written, I marveled at the miracle I’d just experienced.​

With morning light, we were on our way to the conference. I had never experienced such confidence as that morning, when I stood in front of hundreds of desperate women hanging on to every word. I was overcome with boldness that I was not accustomed to as I proclaimed what God had prepared for me to say.​

Upon finishing, I sat down next to my friends. “Wow!” was all they could say.

“I know! That wasn't me!” was all I could answer.​

What amazement. Truly, God was there, speaking through a broken but willing vessel, just in the nick of time!