October 23, 2026

The Lord Knows What We Need Before We Do

By Carol Whitaker, Life Coach for Women

Carol Whitaker cheek to cheek with her black Friesian stallion, Dante

When the answer to your prayer doesn’t look anything like you expected.

It’s awe-inspiring to me how the Lord knows what we need long before we do.

When I tragically lost my precious Cor three years ago this November, I was beyond devastated. I couldn’t imagine ever loving another equine companion as deeply as I loved him. Our bond was so profound and otherworldly.

Six months later, I felt a strong impression that Dante was “the one” waiting for me. But when he stepped off the trailer, he was a high-strung, intimidating stallion, nothing like what I had anticipated.

When Heaven’s Answer Surprises You

I questioned my decision and wondered why heaven had sent him to me. I had no intention of retraining such a powerful stallion, especially in my mid-50s. In those first few days, as I tried to connect with him, I doubted I could ever bond with him as deeply as I had with my previous stallions, Apollo and Cor.

Little did I know, Dante was exactly what my heart and soul needed. It turned out I needed him just as much as he needed me.

It didn’t take long for his guard to come down and for him to open his heart to mine. Through endless patience, devotion, and a lot of time in the saddle, he became safe to ride. He was a very hot stallion, which was dangerous at times, but through it all, the Lord blessed us both with the courage to believe in each other and the wisdom to carry on.

A Gentle Giant at Heart

Today, this magnificent Friesian stallion is a gentle giant at heart. Not a day goes by that he doesn’t follow me around and wrap his neck around me, pulling me into his side for a big hug. He has the most endearing, loving personality.

I feel heaven’s light shining through his ethereal eyes. The way he looks deep into my soul is a truly remarkable gift and a daily reminder of the depth of his affection.

The Lord knew I needed a gentle, healing stallion for my next companion, one who would comfort my soul and gladden my heart beyond expression. I never could have guessed that the hot mess of a stallion who stepped off that trailer would be the ultimate answer to my prayers.

As Dante and I began to heal emotionally together, I could feel the loving spirit of Cor with us every step of the way, helping Dante understand what my heart needed and guiding us both into our next chapter.

You are never alone on your journey. The God who walks beside you today is already preparing beautiful things for tomorrow.

The Lord Is in the Details

It is truly amazing how the Lord is in the details of our lives. Now, I couldn’t imagine my life without Dante by my side.

Perhaps there’s something in your life right now that doesn’t look the way you expected: a new season, a change you didn’t choose, or an impression you’re hesitant to trust. Take a quiet moment and ask yourself:

  • What answer have I received that I’ve been afraid to trust?
  • What if the very thing that feels challenging is preparing me for something beautiful?

Your next chapter may arrive looking nothing like you imagined, and it may be exactly what your heart has been waiting for.

I hope sharing our journey brings a little light, inspiration, and comfort to your day.

With love,
Carol

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