It's A Match!

My grandchildren and I enjoy playing the “match game”.

Spreading out 36 cards with 18 matching pairs, we take turns trying to find the matches among the face down cards. If you find a match you are rewarded by getting another turn. My grandson is particularly talented at this game and can frequently have a run of four matches in a row.

When we begin playing the game, we have no idea where each of the cards is located among the 36. This means we frequently do not turn over the correct card the first time. However, we might remember by our next turn, correct our mistake, find the match and be rewarded with another turn.

I have found this to be true in my own life as well. When life presents with opportunities for faith, I don’t always turn over the “right card” the first time. Sometimes it even takes a turn or two before I remember the lesson and choose to pick up the card of faith and obedience.

I have even joked with my husband before that, with so much Greek blood in my veins, he has to “let me be mad” a little bit before I forgive someone, or choose to accept circumstances I don’t like. The truth of the matter is, the Lord wants us to turn over the “right card” each and every time, the first time. And He has given us everything we need to do so.

"According as his divine power hath given unto us all things that pertain unto life and godliness, through the knowledge of him that hath called us to glory and virtue:” 2 Peter 1:3


When I play the Match Game with Jackson and Emma, I sincerely want them to win. I love to see Jackson find his four matches in a row. I love to see Emma studiously pour over the cards, as if she will be able to see the other side of the card if she just looks long enough. If my pile of “matches” has no cards in it, I am satisfied as long as theirs is piled high.

This is the Lord’s attitude toward us. He has given all that we might have that same all which He gave up.

“For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.” (John 3:16).

The Lord wants us to succeed, He wants us to “. . .grow in grace, and the knowledge of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ,” (2 Peter 3:18). He delights in our steps of obedience and faith toward Him and not only does He desire to shower us with blessings, He already has.

"Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who hath blessed us with all spiritual blessings in heavenly places in Christ:" Ephesians 1:3

“Fear not, little flock; for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” Luke 12:32

So as we approach each day, let us seek to turn over the right card first, and quickly, too. Let us seek to be about "our Father's business" of faith and obedience, knowing that each turn of the cards will lead to another chance, another opportunity to trust our Lord and to see His faithfulness and love.