026 | Does God Have a Sense of Humor? Lisa Lewis Koster's Bookend Lesson in Trust

Hi, friend! In this heartening episode, I interview Lisa Lewis Koster, seasoned Bible teacher and author of the study Enough on the book of Numbers. Lisa shares an extraordinary testimony of learning to trust God through chronic pain, impossible obedience, and divine humor. For 25 years, Lisa lived with debilitating pain that made walking difficult. When her church announced a mission trip to rural Kenya, her husband asked what she thought about going. Her immediate reaction? "Have you seen me lately? I can't even go to the mall!" But when Lisa tried to get rejected by being honest about her condition, the mission organization accepted her anyway. After wrestling with God and receiving Judges 6:14—"Go in the strength you have. Am I not sending you?"—she reluctantly committed. What followed was everything she feared: grueling flights, airsickness in a tiny plane, no beds (just thin foam mats on the ground), and stepping in a hole that re-injured her hip exactly like before departure. In her tent that night, Lisa had it out with God, ending with: "If I knew there wouldn't be beds, I never would have come!" God's response? "I know, that's why I didn't tell you." But here's the miracle: When Lisa returned home, her physical therapist asked what happened—she had the exact same injury but wasn't acting like it. God had given her "bookends"—experiencing the pain before and after, but removing it during the trip so she could serve. Key Takeaways: "Go in the strength you have" (Judges 6:14) - God doesn't always remove obstacles before calling us; sometimes He calls us to go despite them God knows us intimately - He withholds information He knows would stop our obedience, demonstrating both wisdom and gentle humor The bookend miracle - Sometimes God's provision isn't removing the problem but removing our experience of it while we serve Gratitude perspective shift - Contrasting a Kenyan woman weeping over a mud hut with our Parade of Homes discontent reveals how blessed we truly are Don't go it alone - Bible study is best done in community where "the group is smarter than its individual members" This episode offers encouragement for anyone God is calling to something that seems impossible, hope for those dealing with chronic pain or limitations, and inspiration to trust God's sense of humor and perfect timing even when His plans make no sense. May you gain lessons from God in your own life today, my friend. Until next time… Mentions Come to The Well Conference for Creatives! Use this savings code for a $50.00 discount on your registration: GPS50  Judges 6:14 Parade of Homes Numbers 26:11 Jeremiah 29:13 Lisa book, Enough CTAs If you've been blessed by this podcast, help us bless others with your financial giving. It might be the best money you've ever spent. In addition to the podcast, join the community Secure your copy