Unwrapping Unexpected Gifts for 2026 Challenges

If you anticipate encountering difficulties in 2026, how can you prepare for them through prayer? One way to cultivate patience with a ready heart is by seeking God's guidance to discover the tools he provides for addressing specific challenges. Answers to prayers may arrive in the form of unexpected gifts that require unwrapping to be fully understood. It often takes time and practice to fully grasp and utilize the given gift. Here is how you can unwrap the gift you have already received to face new challenges:

In a recent prayer request where I asked God for a tool to address a particular challenge, I was in a period of waiting on the Lord. As I closed my eyes, I saw a paintbrush swiftly painting over a large blank canvas. This tool was given to me in prayer years ago, so I am familiar with using it to navigate changes in my life and ministry. Typically, seeing a paintbrush in response to my prayer signifies that a process of change in some form is necessary, and creative expression—such as painting, though it may vary—will aid in processing and experiencing the required change. Often, healing occurs during this process as well.

As we approach 2026, I encourage you to reflect on the past year. Consider the growth you've achieved through various challenges, and take a moment to remember and express gratitude for the blessings received over the past year. 

Once finished, seek guidance from God regarding His methods of guiding you through the expected and unpredictable challenges of 2026. These upcoming challenges serve a purpose and are intended to transform you from the inside out. As you transform, your circumstances will begin to change as well. 

Once you've shared your prayer request, you can close your eyes and wait for an answer. If needed, focus on your feelings and consider any thoughts that arise. Occasionally, you may perceive, hear, or feel inspired as a reply to your request. Stay with your question until you know you received a response. 

When you pray, pay attention to all your senses!