John Wesley traveled over 250,000 miles on horseback during his ministry, often through dangerous territory. One incident revealed how God's protection extended even to his horse.
A Lame Horse Blocks Ministry
Wesley was riding to a preaching engagement when his horse suddenly went lame. Frustrated by the delay, Wesley dismounted to examine the animal. Finding nothing obviously wrong, he did what came naturally—he prayed.
"Lord, I have a congregation waiting. I have no other means of transport. I ask You to heal this horse so I may complete the work You've given me."
Prayer for Healing Animals Works
Wesley recorded in his journal what happened next: the horse stood up, shook itself, and walked on without any sign of lameness. He arrived at his destination and preached to the waiting crowd.
Divine Protection from Danger Revealed
But that wasn't the end. Wesley later learned that a group of men had been waiting to ambush him along the road at the very time his horse went lame. The delay—which seemed like an obstacle—was actually divine protection.
God's Timing Saves Lives
God didn't just heal the horse. He orchestrated the timing of a temporary lameness to save Wesley's life. What appears to be a setback may be God's sovereign protection at work.
The next time your plans are interrupted, consider: what might God be protecting you from?