Surprises not dissapointments

"So, friends, take a firm stand, feet on the ground and head high. Keep a tight grip on what you were taught, whether in personal conversation or by our letter. May Jesus himself and God our Father, who reached out in love and surprised you with gifts of unending help and confidence, put a fresh heart in you, invigorate your work, enliven your speech." 2 Thess 2: 15-17 (The Message)

Another encouraging prayer from Paul. Looking back on the past few months I can see many disappointments. Things which did not work out the way that I wanted or planned. But the gifts of confidence or hope are there also. In going through the disappointments it is surprising how much God is present. He has not always answered. He does not appear to have intervened often. But he has been there. Encouraging. Comforting. Restoring hope when hope has faded.

Moving forward I am praying for that fresh heart and enlivened speech. I guess it may be a dangerous prayer, because the process of gaining a fresh heart is not without pain, but it is nevertheless an exciting prospect.