Sermon Central
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Divine Encounter
Contributed by Loyd C. Taylor on Dec 31, 2023 (message contributor)
Divine Encounter
When God Confirms the Visit
Several years ago, while serving as a pastor in Massachusetts, I witnessed a moment that reminded me how carefully the Lord can order our steps.
One Sunday morning, a woman visited our church for the first time. During the invitation, she came forward with a church member who prayed with her.
After the service, as I greeted people, I spoke with her to make sure she was doing well and to ask if there was anything our church could do to help.
She told me she was visiting from out of state because her older sister was critically ill at Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston and didn’t have much time left. With tears in her eyes, she asked if I would visit her sister and pray with her. She gave me her sister’s name and room number, and I promised I would go.
The next morning, I went to the hospital and found the room. I introduced myself and explained why I had come.
She spoke openly about her condition and told me the doctors believed she had only a few weeks to live. They had advised her to go home and spend whatever time remained with her family. As we talked, I shared the account of King Hezekiah—how he received a dire message, turned his face to the wall, and prayed, and how the Lord showed mercy (2 Kings 20:1–6).
I wasn’t trying to offer false hope, but to remind her that our days are in God’s hands and that it is always right to seek Him, make peace where we need to, and live ready.
That’s when she stopped me—visibly shaken—and said, “Pastor, why do you keep calling me ‘Diane’?”
I was confused. I told her I thought that was her name.
She explained that her name was Denise. At that point she shared something her younger sister didn’t even know: Denise had been a twin. Her twin sister, Diane, had died shortly after birth. Hearing that name spoken again—by a stranger who didn’t know her story—felt to her like the Lord was gently confirming that this visit was not an accident.
By God’s grace, Denise trusted Christ that day. She was discharged from the hospital within the week and was able to spend precious time with her family.
Her condition stabilized, and she lived nearly two more years. During that time, we stayed in touch, and I watched her grow in faith.
That day reminded me: God doesn’t just direct the big moments—He can also weave the small details to steady a trembling heart.
When you’re called to show up, show up. The Lord is already there, working in ways we can’t yet see.
Takeaway: When God puts a person on your heart, don’t delay—your obedience may be the very confirmation they need.
Scriptures: Proverbs 16:9; 2 Kings 20:1–6; Acts 8:26–40
Contributor: LC Taylor, Sr. (USA)
Check out more illustrations from my book, "That Reminds Me... by Loyd C Taylor, Sr. Amazon
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