By Penny Zeller
Photo by Jeremy Bishop on Unsplash

It’s easy to thank God for the “big” things in our lives. Our Salvation, Jesus’ death on the Cross, our families, health, jobs, and that we have shelter and food. But do we always remember to thank Him for the somewhat “smaller” things?

Case in point: I recently had a dentist appointment for a new crown on a cracked molar. When I made the appointment, I figured it was far enough away that I could veg a bit and not think too much about it. That is, until the day of the appointment arrived.

To say I’m not a fan of the dentist’s office is an understatement. It’s not the drill or the bright light or the cramped little room. It’s not the smells or the fact that I have to be there for two hours. What it is? The needles and the fear of complications.

I’m not a fan of needles, and unfortunately, I had to have anesthetic before they fixed my tooth.

Many people, like my husband, have no fear of the dentist. For him, getting a crown is a mere inconvenience, a detour, if you will, before he heads back to work.

I can’t tell you how many times I’ve wished I was the same way. But “small” things like my fear of the dentist not only grows my faith and trust in a sovereign God, but also reminds me how reliant I am on Him. For everything.

This particular dentist was new to me, but I’d been reassured when I made the appointment that he was kind, gentle, and patient. Just what a person like me needs when she has to face the dentist’s chair.

My prayer list was lengthy for that day. That the dentist truly was kind, gentle, and patient. That I would not panic when it was time for the anesthetic. That I wouldn’t have any allergic reactions (as I’ve had before at the dentist); that there would be no complications or need for further dental details paid to this tooth; and finally, that I would heal quickly (unlike a previous time where my recovery was lengthy due to complications).

I’m not proud of the fact that I don’t like needles or that I tend to worry and can dream up a scary situation at record speed. I’m not proud of the fact that fear threatened to win when I walked through the doors of the dental office.

However, such instances are a vivid reminder of how God is with us every step of the way. From the moment I stepped foot into the dentist’s office that day, I felt a peace that only God can give. Was I still nervous about that needle? Absolutely. But I knew God would bring me through it.

God answered each of my prayers. And not only that, He reminded me through those answered prayers that He would never leave me nor forsake me (Hebrews 13:5); that I could cast all my anxiety on Him because He cares for me (1 Peter 5:7), and that I can be anxious for nothing and that His peace will guard my heart and mind in Christ Jesus (Philippians 4:6-7).

I’d like to say that if I must have another crown at some point, I’ll not be the least bit apprehensive. I’ll saunter in, plop in the chair, and be ready to go without further thought. However, that likely won’t be the case. Things like this are not automatic. God is growing me in this area and is growing my faith and my trust. It is a good reminder that every breath, every situation, and every fear can be given to Him. That I can rest in His arms and find peace in Him, no matter what the circumstance. That He goes before me, protects me, and never leaves me.

And, last but not least, while I am grateful for the “big” things in this life, I’m also grateful for the “small” things, like answered prayers during trips to the dentist.

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