The Condo
Testimony
2020
Chatequa Pinkston
Thank You
I would like to begin by giving thanks. First I give thanks to God who makes all things happen and takes good care of me. Secondly, I would like to thank my parents for helping me throughout the entire process of purchasing the property. None of this would have happened without their assistance on every level. I appreciate you so much more than words can say. Thirdly, thanks to my real estate agent who did not give up in the long process of finding “the needle of the haystack”. Finally, thank you to everyone who contributed through prayer, encouragement, finances and gifts. May God bless you abundantly!
Please rejoice with me as you read this story of the good things that the Lord has done. Let the Scripture encourage you and build your faith. He is faithful.
Deuteronomy 26:11 “So you shall rejoice in every good [thing] which the LORD your God has given to you and your house, you and the Levite and the stranger who [is] among you.”
My Desires
In my heart I wanted to be located in a specific part of town that had to be a low crime and within a certain price range. I wanted every area of the location to be accessible to my walker and wheelchair. Another desire was to have a kitchen with a lot of counter space. At least two bedrooms would be nice. The property we found met all of these desires. God will give us the desires of our hearts.
Psalms 37:4 Delight yourself also in the LORD, And He shall give you the desires of your heart.
The Long Search
We searched for several months looking for the correct house that was in a safe neighborhood and accessible. We found some that met one or two criteria but not the right combination. Sometimes it became discouraging. It felt like we were looking for a needle in a haystack. Many times when God puts something in our heart it does not come automatically, but we cannot become weary.
Galatians 6:9 And let us not grow weary while doing good, for in due season we shall reap if we do not lose heart.
That Place Looks Too Big
Many times I would ride by the area and think that it would be a nice place to live, but the fees were too much for me. Therefore, I would pass by it during my online searches. It was in the area where I wanted to live and was a safe neighborhood. God will do more than what we can what we can imagine.
Ephesians 3:20 Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us,
Unexpected Provision Before Needed
During a trip to Tennessee, God spoke to the heart of several friends at a ministry training school where I taught. They blessed me with prayer and finances toward my new home before I found it. The provision was beneficial towards some of the moving expenses. God goes before us and prepares the way. His preparations include financial, favor, wisdom and whatever that we may need at that specific time.
Deuteronomy 31:8 “And the LORD, He [is] the one who goes before you. He will be with you, He will not leave you nor forsake you; do not fear nor be dismayed.”
The Release of His Timing
After finishing a ministry event, I felt the Lord say that the time was close. A week later we looked at this place. I was able to get my walker through every part of it, even the bathrooms. The Lord’s timing is perfect. He has a plan even when we cannot see it with our own eyes.
Habakkuk 2:3 For the vision is yet for an appointed time; But at the end it will speak, and it will not lie. Though it tarries, wait for it; Because it will surely come, It will not tarry.
Floating to the Top
There were several offers on the table for my property before we placed our offer. Based on the recommendation of my real estate agent, I wrote a letter to the sellers explaining my search to find a place that was accessible, and how this place met all of my needs. God caused our offer to be accepted two days after Christmas. It was a gift from the Heavenly Father. Every good and perfect gift comes from Him.
James 1:17 Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, and comes down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no variation or shadow of turning.
Take the Cost Out
During the inspection we found out about several potential problems that could have been costly. It looked like a questionable situation at some points. The good news is that when the electrician and other contractors came out the work needed was a lot less than expected. The blessings of the Lord do not add sorrow. Sometimes the report may look bleak, but He is able to change it. Believe His report.
Proverbs 10:22 The blessing of the LORD makes [one] rich, And He adds no sorrow with it.
Favored Furniture
My mother found a consignment furniture store in my home town. A friend drove me over thirty minutes to the store. I found several pieces of furniture including my favorite recliner, dining room set and a large desk. Later mom found a large table for my TV at the same store. The salesperson who helped us gave us multiple discounts and also had everything delivered and set-up. Again, the favor of God was in action. He will move people’s hearts on our behalf.
Isaiah 43:4 Since you were precious in My sight, You have been honored, And I have loved you; Therefore I will give men for you, And people for your life.
Free Furniture
I had furniture given to me from several sources. One of mom’s friends who moved gave bedroom sets, A mirror, curtains and so much more. It was stuff for almost every room. Another friend found my living room table on the side of the road. It is beautiful and fits perfectly. The neatest thing is that everything matches and goes together as we planned it. The Lord sees and knows all things, and He causes all things to fall into place like a puzzle.
Ecclesiastes 3:11 He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end.
Perfect Timing
I got moved, situated and had my housewarming party a week before the world was hit by COVID-19. This virus caused everyone to go into quarantine for over a month. I had a plenty of time to enjoy the Lord’s blessings in a lot of space. The Lord’s timing is perfect. Our steps are ordered by Him.
Proverbs 16:9 A man’s heart plans his way, But the LORD directs his steps.
Wide Open Space
The apartment where I lived was a studio with a kitchen and a small bathroom. My new place is about 3 times larger than in my previous apartment. I believe that this has a spiritual meaning also. Expansion and increase are coming in other areas of our lives.
Psalms 18:19 He also brought me out into a broad place; He delivered me because He delighted in me.
The Small Smiles From Heaven
As I sat in my favorite chair, I realized that my assigned parking space is located where I can see it through the front window. Since I don’t drive many of the people who come often use this space. I can see them coming to my door. The Lord is concerned about the small things.
zPsalms 138:8 The LORD will perfect [that which] concerns me; Your mercy, O LORD, [endures] forever; Do not forsake the works of Your hands.