Suppression comes before provision. Not always, but often. At times, God knowingly withholds from His children. That can be a scary time in life. But when God is purposeful in allowing us to experience a season of 'lacks', He will also be sure to (in His time) provide. Out of love, and for His glory. A story from 1 Kings 17:
There was a widow who lived with her son in Sidon. There was a drought, and the widow was so poor she and her son were preparing to die. God spoke to the prophet Elijah and told him to travel to the region of Sidon because he had directed this widow there to supply him with food.
Elijah found the widow, and requested that she bring him a jug of water and some bread. The woman assured Elijah that all she had was a handful of flour and a little olive oil left. It was to make bread for her and her son before they die.
God told Elijah to assure the widow that if she made a loaf for him, her flour and oil would not be used up. Not only would they not be used up, but God would provide her with unlimited flour and oil until the end of the drought.
It can be easy to read a story from the Bible and think that it was a 'normal' occurrence for that day in age. I don't think it was. It probably would have been as crazy as if it happened today. If you literally only had a small portion of food left that you were saving for you and your child before you died of famishment, would you give it to a stranger who promised you that God would provide for you if you gave it to him?
The widow made the bread for Elijah, and everyday God kept His promise to provide for them!
It is beautiful to see how God wove together the needs of Elijah with the needs of the widow and her family. God could have chosen anyone to hand Elijah a jug of water and some bread. But he chose a poor widow who had nothing to offer. Through their encounter, and because of her faith, her life was spared and God's glory was revealed!
Questions:
1. Where do you see God purposely allowing suppression in your life?
2. What might He be trying to teach you?
2 comments:
I REALLY identify with this woman! When life is hopeless, change is seemingly unattainable and my last 2 nickels are are continually being surrendered, it is a difficult but amazing gift to look beyond myself and see God's goodness and faithfulness at work in my life. He is calling me to find my worth, identity, purpose, and security in Him. Though not by worldly standards, I AM blessed as Jesus promises in Matthew 5:3 - for His glory!
Amen! Difficult but amazing, indeed. It is such a gift to be able to see God's hand in the midst of trial. He is so purposeful. That doesn't make it easier, but it offers stability among the waves. Your faith shines through your words! Thank you for your comments. I will be praying for you, Sister!
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