by Leigh Ann Dilley on January 19, 2026
In early January, I was delighted I would have a few days in my own home to focus on my own agenda, prior to returning to work after the holidays. I loved the idea of having free time to pursue whatever activity fit my mood in the days and time I was given. I began to make plans to clean and purge closets, organize shelves in the basement, find a few new recipes to cook, read a book and/or start a craft project.
Day one - It may be interesting to note that day one was also my first day of prayer and fasting. Early that first morning, I prayed God would reveal to me the things inside my heart that he wished to speak into. Late that morning came a call from my daughter who had a meniscus repair on her right knee just before Christmas. She lives across town and although independent, the knee surgery and subsequent crutches profoundly affected her ability to walk, drive, kneel, carry things, not to mention; she was bored. Before I knew it, I’m on my way to her home to gather her up to go grocery shopping, then unpack it all, feed her, clean kitty litter boxes, empty trash; and to perform any number of odd jobs. When this day was over, my expectations of quiet “me” time remained unmet. Humph.
Day two - the same thing happened! This time I drove across town to pick her up for physical therapy, after which it was, “Can we have lunch out today?” because the weather was so beautiful. Followed, again with more chores in her home focusing on cleaning the kitchen, and laundry. By the end of the day my attitude stunk and I was beginning to complain, but something else began to happen too … God began to speak. I felt His gentle conviction that my attitude needed transformation from attitude to servitude. Afterall, time with my grown daughter is precious, and how often do they ask for parental help? Furthermore, did I not ask God to speak to me concerning attitudes of my heart? His conviction did not go unnoticed.
My confession of selfish desires followed and so did something else…joy. I began to plan for and look forward to our visits and time together, which made us both happier. You see, once I took my eyes off myself and put them on Jesus, I was able to see He had a better plan and a better use of my time and energy.
As Pastor Aaron taught us recently from Ezra 8, pray first, plan second, then while fasting listen/watch for God to speak/act. As God designed it, this is exactly what happened to me! God really does hear our prayers and takes care of us (Ezra 8:23). And in my case, I was free to make my plans, but it was the Lord who determined my steps (Proverbs 16:9), and I’m so grateful He did.
