THE DAWG HOUSE DINER

In 2002, my wife and I bought, from her uncle Ben, what was for many years called the "Harrisburg Café".  We did some renovations and redecorating and re-named it the "Dawg House Diner."  

Though it was certainly a radical change in lifestyle, we did it because we felt a very strong leading from the Lord to do so.

We used the business, in part as a ministry tool in our community.  We had a new found strength and boldness in our faith as a result.  We held a weekly youth prayer breakfast there.  We even held Sunday evening church services there for a few months.

However, trust me when I say this, it NEVER made sense financially for us to attempt to support a large family through this business.  The numbers never added up.  But that did not matter to God.  It is interesting how hurtful things stick in your mind.  I remember a particular gentleman from our community who I overheard saying, "This place won't last three months!"  And, to be honest, that hurt a little.  It was a fiery dart sent in our direction meant to discourage.

But, you see God had other plans for us.  God had a plan to teach the Canote family how to live by faith.  God had a plan to teach us how to have your bills prayed in full.  

Can I just tell ya something?  God does not need a calculator.  In fact, as the Bible says, God owns the cattle on a thousand hills.  As the Martins sing, "God's gonna do what God's do!  He always up to something new!" 

As it turns out, that season of our lives, as the owner/operators of a small town café, was a financial boot camp.  Was it difficult?  Yes, it sure was.  Was it often stressful?  Yes, it sure was.  But, the truth and reality is that we came out on the other side with a much closer walk with God, a deeper faith, a stronger testimony, and a much greater appreciation for the promises of God.

Prayer -

Father, thank You for loving us enough to allow us to experience what we need to experience in order to know You better and to grow spiritually.  In my heart of hearts, I know Your plans and timing are the best even if it means stress and difficulty in the moment.  Amen.

Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be afraid, for I am your God. I will strengthen you; I will help you;  I will hold on to you with my righteous right hand.  

-- Isaiah 41:10 (CSB)

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