I came across the story of a widow who was in desperate lack financially that her late husband’s creditor was about to collect her two sons as payment for their debt. I couldn’t imagine the stress! But she got out of this situation, miraculously, after she brought her concern to God and did what He said.
What am I in lack of? A lot. And I couldn’t be more grateful.
You can read this story in 2 Kings 4:1–7. Here is my gist:
Out of her desperation, she went to Elisha, a prophet of God (those days they go to God through prophets), to ask for help.
Elisha said, “I wonder how I can be of help.” (MSG)
This is just me but he was probably thinking that he won’t be able to do anything, but God can.
Elisha continued, “What do you have in your house?” (MSG)
“Nothing at all, except a flask of olive oil,” the widow replied (NLT).
Elisha then gave instructions—borrow empty jars, not few, but as many as she can, and then from her little flask, pour the olive oil into the empty jars and fill them all up.
So she did as she was told (NLT). She kept pouring (NIV) and when all of the empty jars have been filled, she went back to Elisha to share the news. Elisha told her to sell the oil, pay off her debt, and live on what was left.
What did I learn?
- Desperate situations can paralyze me or bring me to a place of personal encounter with God. I choose the latter.
- What little do I have? Bring it to God. Do what He says. Be amazed.
- A little bit of faith is enough invitation for God to move miraculously.
- Because she did as she was told, she saw before her very eyes a miracle of God. Obedience is a channel for miracles.
- Just keep pouring. Just keep doing what God says and He will fill all the empty jars before me.
God, thank You for granting me the privilege to be used by You even when I have little to offer. Because I have little, there’s so much room for You to come through for me. Because of Your grace, my lack has become my greatest strength, and for that I am grateful. Amazed, and grateful.
