Coincidence?

When we experience a coincidence, we generally take note of it.

It is remarkable, because it’s difficult to connect the incident with a specific cause. Life surprises us that way, and typically we’re delighted — but answered prayer is much more than mere coincidence.

In “When God Winks at You,” Squire Rushnell says, “Every time you receive what some call a coincidence or answered prayer, it’s a direct and personal message of reassurance from God to you — what I call a Godwink.”

Let me share one such occasion with you. 

During my seminary studies, I drove almost 80 miles round trip across the city of Houston, and I learned patience with heavy traffic and difficulties along the way.

When I passed people stranded, especially in heavy freeway traffic, I knew that I could do little to help, so I prayed each time.

I prayed that God would help that person and keep them safe — that the Lord would intervene on their behalf.

Morning classes also meant a bit more coffee. I sought out a place, and I found one located on my route and, happily, a back route closer to the campus.

One day when I arrived at a busy intersection, traffic was at a standstill, and I needed to make a right turn. Soon I saw the cause: a young woman in a small truck, stranded and needy.

Yes, I prayed for her — that someone capable would stop and help her, that she would receive help soon and especially that she remain safe in the heavy traffic among frustrated drivers. I turned, drove to the coffee shop, then instead of taking the typical alternate route to campus, I returned the way I had come.

Once again, at the same intersection as before, I saw an amazing thing.

Positioning my car to turn right, I saw the intersection clearly. There was the same broken-down truck, being pushed across the lanes of traffic. Somehow, I locked eyes with the driver in the truck and enthusiastically gave her a repeated thumbs-up.

She probably thought I was a bit nuts, but what I watched was answered prayer.

Yes. It thrilled me to watch God answer my prayer, knowing He engages with life right where we are. I knew it was a Godwink for sure, not a mere coincidence.

Look for Him along the way. It will amaze you to see God in action. Until next week, Anita

Onarecker, an Elgin resident, author of “Divine Appointment: Our Journey to the Bridge” and minister to women and adults, earned a Master of Christian Education from Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary in 2007.