I have had a cute little portable electric fireplace for more than a year now. I use it in certain rooms of my home in cold weather to take the chill off. Unfortunately, the cord on it is so short that it really restricts me from using it the way I'd like to. When we first bought it last year, and I asked my husband, Joe, for an extension cord for it, he warned me that it would be completely unsafe to use it that way.

After getting totally frustrated with my little fireplace just last week, I decided to pray about it. I asked the Lord to show me if I had any other options besides using it the way I had been for the past year. Suddenly, I felt impressed to start looking online for a heavy-duty extension cord that I could safely use with my little heater. I discovered that there are things called "Major Appliance" extension cords. I asked my husband about it, and he not only approved, but he picked one up for me locally the next day. Now, I can easily move my portable fireplace from one part of the room to another, the way I've always wished I could.

When I thought about this experience later on, the Holy Spirit brought to my remembrance a verse in the book of James: "You do not have because you do not ask God." (James 4:2 NIV) Because I took my husband's word that using an extension cord for my little fireplace was not an option - and because I didn't consult God in the matter - I went for more than a year doing without something that would make my life a lot easier, and my situation a joy.

What unexpected options could be yours today if you would simply ASK the Lord for them?

Prayer: Lord, I praise You for being an all-knowing God who has limitless options for His people. Work in my heart and mind, and prompt me by Your Spirit, so my first response in every situation will be to ask for Your wisdom and expertise. Guard me from assumptions that will rob me of Your best. Thank You that as I refuse to settle for the opinions of others - and instead, call upon You - I will have unexpected options at my disposal every time!

- J. M. Farro