Here’s another example. How many times have you been at a service of some sort, and speakers were asked to speak for two or five (or even ten) minutes, and the speaker decided to seize that moment to preach from Genesis all the way to Revelation? I remember watching (virtually) a graduation, and the speaker actually said, “I know y’all said ten minutes, but I can tell you right now, I’m going to take my time and be up here for more than ten minutes.” And she was—for about forty-five minutes!! But this occasion was not meant to be her moment; she was supposed to celebrate the achievements of a group of graduating seniors—in less than ten minutes. (Sisters, we have to do better!)
God is looking for obedience to accompany your compassion. Remember, obedience is better than sacrifice, according to I Samuel 15:22 (NLT).
But Samuel replied, “What is more pleasing to the Lord: your burnt offerings and sacrifices or your obedience to His voice? Listen! Obedience is better than sacrifice, and submission is better than offering the fat of rams.
Today, Sisters, I encourage you to pray first. When someone asks you to pray, don’t wait until tonight before you go to bed. You may forget by then. Pray right away. Don’t wait until the day the surgery is scheduled or right before the exam begins. Don’t wait until ten minutes before her job interview. Pray immediately. Pray for her and ask God for the words to advise, instruct, support, and/or comfort her instead of just telling her what you would do. And most of all, just listen. You’d be surprised how much your listening ear can facilitate her healing. And God will provide deeper revelation when there is more for you to do.
The Manna Chef 