Coincidence or God-incidence?

A few weeks ago, I received a copy of Life-Changing Moments with God, Praying Scripture Every Day, by David Jeremiah. It's just a little devotional book of prayers based on scripture. Michael and I had enjoyed a similar book of prayers based on the healing promises of the Bible during his illness.

While praying with yesterday's entry, I thought I'd look back to see what the reading was for March 7th - the day that Michael went home to be with the Lord. Here it is:

Your Maker is your husband, the Lord of hosts is His name.

Lord, this is a great mystery . . . concerning Christ and the church. I shall no longer be termed Forsaken . . . but I shall be called Hephzibah [My Delight in Her], for You, Lord, delight in me. As the bridegroom rejoices over the bride, so shall you, my God, rejoice over me. You have sent Jesus to comfort me in mourning, to console those who mourn in Zion, to give us beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness. I will rejoice in You, Lord, my soul shall be joyful in You, my God; for You have clothed me with the garments of salvation . . . as a bridegroom decks himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorns herself with her jewels. Lord, You will betroth me to You forever; yes, You will betroth me to You in righteousness and justice, in lovingkindness and mercy. Who shall separate me from the love of Christ?

You are a holy God who delights in His sinful but forgiven people! What amazing love from a compassionate, faithful, righteous, loving, and merciful God!

(Based on: Isaiah 54:5; Ephesians 5:32; Isaiah 62:4-5; Isaiah 61:1-3; Isaiah 61:10; Hosea 2:19; and Romans 8:35)

What really stood out to me was the reference to Isaiah 61:1-3 from which I derived the name of this blog in the aftermath of Michael's death. What a lovely God-incidence.