It was the day before we were to leave on our outreach to LA & Alaska. Our family's airline tickets had already been purchased, but the remaining needed funds, which amounted to $2500, was still unpaid. We were the only team members lacking too. First thing that morning, our school leader met with us to make sure we clearly understood the expectations; we couldn’t go on outreach if we didn’t have all our money in by 5pm. With the clock ticking, we did the only thing we knew to do: pray!
We sent out a text to our faithful prayer partners, and with a surprising peace within, we waited on the Lord.
You see, prior to meeting with our school leader that morning, Richard told me he had been encouraged through Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego’s story in his quiet time. With a calm resoluteness, Richard looked me in the eye and said, “Amy, God is able to provide this need, but even if He doesn’t I’m still going to trust the Lord!” His words immediately cut through my own worry and leveled my fears. Together, we found strength in trusting God no matter the outcome and could walk through the day with peace.
Too often I want to see the provision in order to trust, yet God desires for me to trust first. God's goodness is not contingent upon whether He provides. He simply is good all the time. When my heart wants the Provider more than the provision, then and only then am I able to abide in His love.
God did meet the need. All throughout the day money came in, and at 4:45pm we were able to pay off what we owed. It was a miracle, and with great joy, we shared the news of God's provision with all who had been faithfully standing with us. However, the greater miracle that day happened in our hearts before the equipping came. No matter the end result, we could worship our King and trust His good plan to be fulfilled in our lives.
“Trust God and do the next thing.” ~ Elizabeth Elliott
Whatever provision you're needing, trust God first! In your hour of need, resist the urge to panic. Trusting in the Almighty will strengthen you, and as a result, you will taste and see the Lord’s goodness.