Bible in a Year:
So there was food every day for Elijah and for the woman and her family.
Three hundred children were dressed and seated for breakfast, and a prayer of thanks was offered for the food. But there was no food! Situations like this were not unusual for orphanage director and missionary George Mueller (18051898). Here was yet another opportunity to see how God would provide. Within minutes of Muellers prayer, a baker who couldnt sleep the night before showed up at the door. Sensing that the orphanage could use the bread, he had made three batches. Not long afterward, the town milkman appeared. His cart had broken down in front of the orphanage. Not wanting the milk to spoil, he offered it to Mueller.
Its normal to experience bouts of worry, anxiety, and self-pity when we lack resources essential to our well-beingfood, shelter, health, finances, friendships. First Kings 17:816 reminds us that Gods help can come through unexpected sources like a needy widow. I dont have any breadonly a handful of flour in a jar and a little olive oil in a jug (v. 12). Earlier it was ravens that provided for Elijah (vv. 46). Concerns for our needs to be met can send us searching in many directions. A clear vision of God as the Provider who has promised to supply our needs can be liberating. Before we seek solutions, may we be careful to seek Him first. Doing so can save us time, energy, and frustration.
Whats been your experience when youve focused on securing provision before seeking the Provider in prayer? What current needs will you bring before God?
Father, sharpen my vision of You as the Provider for all my needs. Forgive me for times I have futilely sought to find my way without seeking You first.
Hi, Rus! Thanks for our beautiful lesson from God’s Word. I have enjoyed the pictures of your grandsons on FB. They are such handsome boys!